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District 11 board vows to keep schools open amid one‑day CSEA action, board members call strike political
Summary
At its Oct. 1 meeting the Colorado Springs School District 11 board pledged to keep schools open on Oct. 8 after the Colorado Springs Education Association announced a one‑day strike; board members criticized the union and several parents urged the board to prioritize students.
The Colorado Springs School District 11 Board of Education on Oct. 1 told families it intends to keep schools open and staffed on Oct. 8 despite the Colorado Springs Education Association's (CSEA) announced one‑day action.
“Keep our schools open, prioritizing safe and rigorous learning environments,” Board President Mal Peckham said, announcing the board’s position after several executive‑session discussions with the superintendent and legal counsel. He said a clear majority of teachers and staff indicated they plan to work on Oct. 8 and that several board members plan to volunteer in schools that day.
Parent Lindsay Callahan urged the board during public comment to view the planned action as political. “The CSEA strike is no strike. It is a political stunt,” she said, criticizing what she described as picketing, canvassing and campaigning scheduled for the same day. Callahan urged the board to protect classrooms from what she called “adult agendas.”
Board debate at the meeting emphasized staffing, safety investments and differing claims about the scope of planned participation. Director Jorgensen, during a series of remarks labeled a “Mythbusters” presentation, said the district has invested in safety and reported low vacancy numbers this fall, arguing that assertions that security or staffing will collapse are unfounded.
Trustees said they have directed administration to support schools and to marshal volunteers where needed. The board announced it will not hold its regular meeting on Oct. 8 so trustees can be present in schools and support operations.
The board’s statements were framed as operational priorities rather than legal rulings; no formal sanctions or disciplinary actions were announced at the meeting. Superintendent Goll said building principals and central staff will share school‑specific plans as parents ask for details.
What happens Oct. 8 will depend on individual staff choices and the district’s contingency plans. The board encouraged families to watch for school communications and to reach out to the district with concerns.
