CAT Press Release May 7, 2002

CAT NEWS
Cairo Association of Teachers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Cairo, IL -- May 7, 2002 Cairo teachers today promised to stay at the bargaining table as long as it takes to get an agreement that will end the dispute that has closed District 1 schools since April 25th.

Ron Newell, president of the Cairo Association of Teachers (CAT), said teachers will go to the bargaining table Tuesday prepared to make a deal that will reopen schools and allow a complete school year.

"We agree with parents who say it is time to end the standoff. We are committed to the children of Cairo and we will do whatever it takes to get a fair contract that will get us back in school with our students.

Newell said a settlement is in reach if the school board wants to end the standoff and reopen schools.

"We hope the members of the school board will ignore the out-of-towners who advise them and, instead, listen to the parents calling for reopened schools and for a full school year," Newell said.

"If the school board is committed to what is best for the children, they will stay at the table with us until there is an agreement," he added.