Oakland Unified teachers vote to authorize strike

OAKLAND, Calif. - Oakland Unified teachers on Tuesday voted in favor of striking over several reasons, including unfair labor practices and wages.

The Oakland Education Association, which is the union representing the city's public school educators, said there is still hope that a walkout can be avoided.

The teachers union said 88% of those who voted, approved of the strike.

Teachers said they took the vote because the district is not bargaining in good faith, however, the educators are ready to listen as talks continue this week.

"We really want to make sure we have every opportunity to listen to their proposals and try to reach an agreement. It's something we can to avoid, but we have the votes to strike if necessary," the union said.

The school district has asked the state public employees relations board to declare the strike illegal.

Teachers said the board has not yet reached a decision.

OUSD put out a statement late Tuesday evening and said they were at the bargaining table with the union. 

"As of 9:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 25, OUSD is currently at the bargaining table in negotiations with OEA. Beyond tonight, the District will remain ready to meet with the teachers' union at any time, and looks forward to continuing our efforts to reach an agreement with OEA that honors our educators and best supports our students' learning. We will continue to do everything possible to avoid a work stoppage," the district's statement read.