Members of OAPSE Local #686 picketed outside the Eastland Career Center campus on Feb. 14 requesting raises and respect. The Board of Education approved a collective bargaining agreement with the union during a special meeting on March 8, officially ending the strike.
Photos by Jason Perlman/Ohio AFL-CIO
March 10, 2025
From the Eastland-Fairfield Career Center
The Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical Schools (EFCTS) Board of Education approved a collective bargaining agreement with OAPSE Local 686 during a special meeting on March 8, officially ending the union’s strike.
The strike, which began on Jan. 7, involved 17 custodial, maintenance, technology and food service employees. Negotiations started in May 2024. A tentative agreement was reached on Feb. 24, with OAPSE members approving it on Feb. 26 before sending it to the Board for final approval.
“We are grateful for the positive discussions that led to a resolution and are glad to welcome back staff who are returning to work,” said Board of Education President Bill McGowan. “We also deeply appreciate those who continued to perform their duties throughout and those who stepped up to keep things running smoothly during this time. Your dedication and commitment have been invaluable and we look forward to moving forward, together.”
Eastland-Fairfield Superintendent/CEO Shelley Groves said, “We are grateful that a resolution has been reached and that we can begin to focus on a strong finish to the school year. Thank you to everyone involved in reaching a fair agreement. I truly appreciate the entire Eastland-Fairfield team that continues to demonstrate their commitment to our schools, our students, and each other.”
