Students and supporters march in solidarity with Natomas teachers as the strike over health care coverage enters its fifth day amid ongoing negotiations.<\/p>\n
SACRAMENTO, Calif. \u2014 Hundreds of people, including students and supporters, marched through Natomas Monday morning in solidarity with teachers as the strike enters its fifth day and negotiations with the district continue.<\/p>\n
Students organized a nearly two-mile march beginning at Natomas High School, crossing over Interstate 80, and ending at the Natomas Unified School District office.<\/p>\n
The demonstration comes as both sides remain divided over key contract issues, particularly health care coverage.<\/p>\n
The Natomas Teachers Association says the district rejected their latest offer. Meanwhile, the district said it presented an updated proposal Sunday night addressing health care coverage.<\/p>\n
Despite the ongoing strike and many students not attending classes, some students chose to join their teachers on the picket lines and during the march.<\/p>\n
Natomas High School teacher Andrew Tkach said the support from his students has meant a lot during the strike.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou know, I’ve missed some this last week, and so I’ve seen some of mine, and it’s so cool to see them out here. As much learning this happens inside the school. There’s so much more that can happen out here when you’re on the line with us. We didn’t ask them. They chose to be out here with us, and it means so much to have their support,” Tkach said.<\/p>\n
Health care coverage remains a key issue in negotiations.<\/p>\n
In a statement, the district said rising health care costs are a major challenge for school systems across California.<\/p>\n
\u201c…rising health care costs remain one of the most significant financial challenges facing school districts across California. For that reason, the District\u2019s proposal also includes a commitment to continue working collaboratively through the District\u2019s Health Benefits Committee to identify long-term health benefit options that support teachers while maintaining financial stability for the District.\u201d<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, the teachers union says its proposal offered what it calls a \u201csustainable transition to ongoing fully funded family coverage.\u201d<\/p>\n
The march ended at the district office in Natomas, where many students, teachers and supporters remained gathered as negotiations between the district and union continue.<\/p>\n