Minneapolis educators' strike continues; classes canceled for a sixth day

Minneapolis Public Schools canceled classes for a sixth day Tuesday, amid the ongoing strike by the district's teachers and support staff.

Tuesday morning marked one week since educators started walking picket lines outside schools in the city.

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A student march from North Community High School to district headquarters took place late Tuesday morning. Another round of mediation was scheduled later between the district and union. The two sides made some movement toward compromise over the weekend but reported no further progress Monday.

The union is demanding caps on class sizes, more mental health supports for students and increased wages for teachers and education support professionals.

In a statement Monday evening the district says it "has reached its financial parameters" and cannot afford what the union is demanding. District officials said they "remain committed to a contract focused on equity, specifically around recruiting and retaining educators of color."

Union leaders have disputed that the district isn't able to afford what it's asking for, saying it's a matter of priorities in spending. In a statement Monday night, they said they were waiting for a counteroffer from the district — and holding out for "systemic change" and not temporary agreements.

The strike and resulting class cancellations are affecting more than 30,000 students and their families.

• Minneapolis Public Schools, teachers reach tentative agreement overnight
• Minneapolis teachers set to vote this week on strike authorization
• Anoka-Hennepin school board OKs plan to avoid budget showdown