PPS to Non-Union Employees: Get Ready to Cross Picket Lines

By AARON MESH

Portland Public Schools today sent a letter to its non-union employees warning them that they are expected to show up to work Feb. 20, even if teachers go on strike.

"You do not have a right to strike," writes the school district's chief human resources office. "This does mean that you may need to cross a picket line of teachers."

Classified staff who are not teachers include secretaries, clerks, cafeteria staff, custodians, occupational therapists and physical therapists.

The Portland Teachers Association voted a week ago to authorize a walkout starting Feb. 20. While the school district and union continue to negotiate, Portland Public Schools has begun hiring replacement teachers on Craigslist.

Here's the full letter to school employees, sent at 2:52 this afternoon.

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