West Contra Costa teachers continue strike amid negotiations over salary raises, other demands

RICHMOND, Calif. (KGO) -- In the East Bay, striking teachers in the West Contra Costa Unified School District are back on the picket lines after no deal was reached over the weekend. On Monday, hundreds of teachers rallied at Richmond Civic Center calling on the district to return to the bargaining table.

"I am incredibly happy to report today's strike lines are stronger than they were on Friday," said Francisco Ortiz, President of United Teachers of Richmond.

About 1,500 teachers across 56 schools are back on the picket line after no deal was reached with the district over the weekend.

RELATED: Still no deal in West Contra Costa teacher strike over staffing issues, pay

"Over the weekend, our bargaining team was there until midnight Saturday, hammering out proposals to get to the district, then it was radio silence, we're just waiting for the district team to meet with us again, we want to get this done," said Gabrielle Micheleti, VP, United Teachers of Richmond.

Teachers hit the picket lines Thursday, demanding smaller class sizes, more recourses for special education and higher wages. The union wants a 5% increase over the next two years, the district is offering a one-time 3% raise.

"We are incredibly grateful to have support of State Superintendent, Tony Thurmond," said Ortiz.

Thurmond, who once served on the West Contra Costa Unified School Board, posted on social media that he's willing to convene both parties to resolve the strike.

The district is requesting to return to the bargaining table on Tuesday. In a statement, the district said in part:

"It's unfortunate that the strike continues... the district team and school financial experts have been evaluating UTR'S counterproposal and projecting ongoing cost, budget implications and impact to student programs for the organization."

The district says declining enrollment has led to a budget deficit.

"I would love to be back at school, teaching my students I miss them but if this will help improve things we're going to keep fighting till we get what we want, said teacher Juliana Golding.

Many parents are standing in solidarity with teachers.

"It's not the easiest time for me and my partner and my son we run a toy store and this is the busiest time of the year, but it's important to us. We're out here when we can taking turns at the shop," said parent Devin McDonald.

District officials say WCCUSD schools remain open during the strike action. A tentative agreement has been reached with Teamsters who represent classified workers. Members still have to ratify the agreement.