St. Louis teachers union calls for 100% virtual start to school year

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ST. LOUIS, MO (KMOX) - "We have been warned to take aggressive action," says Ray Cummings, referring to the surge of coronavirus cases that led to warnings from federal officials last week.  "We have no choice at this point other than to recommend 100% virtual instruction."  Cummings is Interim President of the American Federation of Teachers Local 420, which represents St. Louis Public School teachers.

Cummings tells KMOX's Total Information AM, a recent poll by the district shows more than 60% of parents in the district want to start the school year on-line.  He says a poll of teachers show they are in favor of starting the year with virtual classes.  

BREAKING: The union representing St. Louis Public Schools teachers is recommending virtual learning for students this fall.We caught up with the union president at 7:20.LISTEN: https://t.co/CHNSUqjSVf#KMOXRewind

— KMOX St. Louis News (@kmoxnews) July 27, 2020

The union is calling for a gradual phase-in of in-person classes as coronavirus numbers improve.

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Cummings was asked if they'd walk off the job if they get a return-to-class plan they don't like.  "We don't look to see that happen.  We're working with the district.  We have a seat at the table and we're sure that the district will be receiving our recommendations and that they will be acting on them."

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