IN SUPPORT OF BFT

Editors, Daily Planet:

We are the parents of kids who have attended Berkeley schools from elementary through Berkeley High. During those years the school community has experienced some periods of financial stability, but more often financial instability that ultimately resulted in reduced programs and services for our kids. All along, there have been constants--great kids, active parents, dedicated teachers and classified staff, and district administrators and board members working to do the right thing.

The teacher union’s labor dispute with administration is difficult for all of us, and no one wants to see a strike. But, despite the difficulties, we support the teachers because we cannot support the position taken by the board to cap employer contributions to health care premiums. Each time an employer makes the decision to cap its contribution, it adds to the trend to diminish wages for the middle class. Capping employer contributions also relieves pressure on our policymakers to address the growing costs of health care in the United States.

Unions helped create the American middle class by drawing lines in the sand. Good for them.

Susan Henderson
Vikki Davis
Julia Epstein
Stephen Rosenbaum