A tentative deal has been reached between the East Palestine City School District Board of Education and the East Palestine Education Association, avoiding a strike by the union. 

According to Superintendent James Rock, the union's notice of intent to strike has been withdrawn. 

In a statement, Rock said a tentative agreement has been reached on all outstanding issues. 

“The EPEA has withdrawn its Notice of Intent to Strike and will be voting on the tentative agreement on a date to be determined. The Board will not be releasing details until the agreement is ratified by both parties,” said Mr. Rook in the statement. 

Earlier this week, the East Palestine teacher's union issued an intent to strike notice, which would have started Monday, October 21. 

Both parties are expected to meet again on Wednesday, October 16. 

According to Superintendent James Rock, the union requested a 14% pay increase and an additional raise of $500 and $2,000 for each teacher, per year. 

The teacher's union released a statement, thanking the community for their support over the past few weeks. 

“We are incredibly thankful for the overwhelming support we have received from our community throughout this long and difficult process,” said EPEA spokesperson and third-grade teacher Carrie Cope. “Your encouragement and belief in our mission to maintain and improve the quality of education for our students have been invaluable. This agreement reflects not only our dedication but also the collective strength of our community.”

“We will be following our union’s constitution and bylaws as efficiently as possible to get this agreement in front of our members so that they can review and discuss it, and then vote on ratification,” Cope added.