Though these are tense times, Mr. Boo does not seem that bothered. He does not worry about who stays in or who drops out of presidential races. He does not worry if the St. Paul teachers go on strike. As long as the sun still shines and there are gummy bears, he is a happy camper. But, his mother loses a lot of sleep over such things.
As a former teacher, I thoroughly support the teachers of St. Paul. Their requests are simple, they want better mental health care for their students and smaller classes. I know all too well what it is like to have huge classes crammed into tiny classrooms. I know what it is like to have at risk students and no one to refer them to for their mental health care needs. It is hard and scary to be in such a position. These teachers desperately need more help. But, where can the help come from? If the superintendent is correct, there is no money in the budget. He does not have a magic wand. These negotiations have been dragging on since May and are about to come to a head next week. If a resolution cannot be reached this weekend, teachers will strike on Tuesday. This will adversely affect so many students. I am lucky. I work from home. I can take care of Boo. But, what of the parents who are working two and three jobs just to keep a roof over their heads. Who will watch their children? This is what truly scares me. What will happen to these families.
I really don’t know what to do this weekend besides wait and pray. I support the teachers, but I don’t want a strike. I think many of them don’t either. Children will go without school. Parent will go without work. Vacations and graduations will be set back. Boo and I have had May 29 on our calendar all year. This is to be his graduation day. But, will it?
Harriet's Hedgehogs and Autism Advocacy 