It's been a week of no school for the 30,000 kids who attend Minneapolis Public Schools, MPS. Teachers say they are fighting for smaller class sizes, mental health support, and higher pay. The District says it wants all those things and more, but simply can't afford it.
About 400 kids have been attending ten hub sites set up by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. Since the strike, the MPRB has been offering extended hours and programming at various recreation centers, open from 12-9 p.m. on weekdays. Superintendent Al Bangoura said those sites will stay open for the duration of the strike.
Park supervisors say they have seen more enrollment as the strike continues.
"A lot of the parents have been really grateful that we're able to offer this space for them," said Recreation Supervisor, John Haldeman.
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Parents told News Talk 830 WCCO that although park programs can't replace classroom learning, they're grateful their kids can go to safe environments where they can be creative, socialize, and burn energy.
Speaking of burning energy, 13-year-old, Gentric Lenoir, has been using the time off school to improve his basketball skills.
"I love basketball," said Gentric, "I like the break because I get to practice everyday."
Other MPS students told News Talk 830 WCCO being away from school gave them time to see their grandparents, catch up with friends, and try new things.
"I'm actually more busy when I'm not in school for some reason," said 6th-grader Cadon Atkinson.
"I'm just traveling to other people's houses. I just have so many people who I haven't seen in a while."
Cadon said he has mixed feelings about going back to school. While he misses clubs like Gay Straight Alliance (GSA), Cadon says he wants to see his teachers get paid more.
"I really want the teachers to get their pay and everything...but I also I honestly enjoy being out of school for a little bit."
Pay... that's what most kids understood about the strike. In the latest contract proposal, the MPS Board offered teachers a starting salary of $50,000. Board members said that would be among the highest starting pay for teachers in the state. But the Minneapolis Federation of Teachers (MFT) says it also wants to see Educational Support Staff (ESP's) start at least $35,000 a year.
While most students News Talk 830 WCCO spoke with support their teachers, there is one caveat.
"I don't mind that we're getting days off of school," said 3rd-grader Samantha Muchow. "I do mind the fact that we're probably gonna have to make it up."
With the strike lasting more than five days, making days up is definitely on the table, per state law.
The District says lost time could be made up in three ways: 1. over spring break, 2. over summer break or 3. reducing professional development days.
Perhaps another thing the union and the District will have to negotiate.