Strike shuts down Catholic schools in the Sault (8 photos)

Members of the Ontario Catholic Teachers' Association (OCETA) in Sault Ste. Marie were picketing outside of local MPP Ross Romano's office Tuesday morning as part of a province-wide strike action. 

Picketers who spoke to SooToday said the strike action is due to increased class sizes and lack of supports for teachers and special education. 

“Today we are looking to get back to the table,” said Marnie McDonald, who sits on the executive committee of the Huron Catholic Teachers Association. “We would like to negotiate a fair and equitable contract to ensure that our students’ needs are met.”

Picket lines similar to the scene outside Romano's office were also scheduled to take place outside St. Mary's College, Holy Cross Catholic School and St. Basil's Tuesday. 

According to a release issued by Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board, OCETA represents all of its elementary and secondary teachers, and more than 45 per cent of the school board’s permanent employees overall.