Some districts in Southern Arizona could be closed again tomorrow as the budget vote drags on.
As of right now, teachers in TUSD, Sunnyside, Amphi and Marana are not returning to their classrooms.
School districts across the state were hearing that the budget would be passed today -- ultimately ending the statewide walkout. Teachers were preparing to go back. But a notice Wednesday from the Red for Ed movement changed the course for those four districts.
Marea Jennes has been front and center leading the charge in TUSD. She had planned to return to work tomorrow after Red for Ed leaders sent out a statement that teachers should declare their victories -- and return to the classrooms. She's referring to the extension of Prop 301 funds -- followed by the Governor's deal to boost teacher pay 10 percent next school year.
"When you put 50,000 teachers on the lawn in the capitol, I guest you do pay attention to them. It may not be exactly what we want, but we've got 10 percent going to our school districts that we didn't have last year. I count those all as victories," she said.
But Wednesday afternoon, the Red for Ed leaders sent an update to teachers that there are "allies in the legislature presenting opposing arguments and amendments to this budget." And the budget might not get passed until early morning Thursday.
The leaders stated it's clear that teachers they've heard from don't want to return until the budget is passed, but it's up to each teacher at each site to decide.
The four districts again saying they'll remain closed until the walkout ends -- possibly tonight or early tomorrow.
We'll keep you updated on the progress of the budget.
