April 30, 2024

On April 30, Education Minnesota-Lakeville (EML), the teachers’ union, announced it filed for strike authorization. Per state statute, the District and Union have a 10-day window to engage in mediation before EML may begin striking. The next mediation session is scheduled for Monday, May 6, which is the earliest date available through the State Bureau of Mediation Services. The earliest school day the Union could legally strike is Monday, May 13. The District believes an agreement can be reached to avoid a strike and mitigate any disruptions to school and district operations. However, because of this recent development, we encourage families to create contingency plans in the event of a strike. 

The Board of Education and Administration will meet in a closed session on Tuesday, April 30 to further discuss negotiations. Additionally, once a strike preparedness plan is finalized, the District will promptly communicate with families and all staff groups to detail any potential impacts on school and district operations. These impacts could include school closures, adjustments to testing schedules, impacts for fee-based programs including child care, impacts to before-and-after school student and community activities, student meal services, and the potential scheduling of make-up days to ensure compliance with seat-time requirements.

It is important to reiterate that the District firmly believes a strike can be averted through collaboration and mutual agreement. It is our priority to reach an agreement that supports our students, teachers, staff and the long-term success of our school community. 

The District will continue to keep families and staff updated as mediation progresses. For more details regarding negotiations, please visit