Almost 500 teachers in nine schools in the top ranked Geneva school district claim they’re paid less than most teachers in Kane County.
They say they're paid so low that some teachers like middle school special education teacher Haley Moroni works a second job to make ends meet.
"I’m doing my best but things are a little tight," she said.
Seventh grade language arts teacher Jordan Brewner, whose wife makes more in another Kane County district, says it’s even impacting their family planning.
“We want to be able to start a family and we want the step and lane salary schedule knowing that down the road we’ll be able to afford things like daycare," he said.
Minutes before Tuesday night's bargaining session, teachers union President Kevin Gannon, a Geneva high school history teacher, said they have sacrificed long enough.
The latest missive from the school board-proud of its fiscal responsibility-says its latest proposal “significantly increased” its salary offer. The union disagrees.
Charlie Egan’s wife teaches in the district where they live and their 11 and 7-year-old boys are well aware of what’s going on.
"I just think that she should be paid well," he said.
There’s only one more negotiating session scheduled.
The teachers filed an intent to strike in early November if the issues are not resolved.
