To protest the proposed lack of pay increases for the next three years, teachers are convening today at the corner of Prince William Parkway and Minnieville Road to protest the Prince William County Schools FY2013 budget. The loosely organized group of teachers hope the rally, planned between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., will raise awareness of the teachers' plight and ultimately convince Prince William residents and politicians of the importance of support for properly funding education in the County. In a media advisory, the group said, "The teachers of Prince William County are coming together to Rally for Education. We want to draw attention to the current budget situation - and the overall lack of support financially for education and educators in Prince William County." In response to the proposed FY2013 school budget, which eliminated step and cost of living adjustments, teachers in the County have chosen to "work to rule," only working the hours and duties stipulated by their contracts. In response to the job action, Superintendent of Schools Steven L. Walts sent a district-wide email to staff outlining their responsibilities and warning them of consequences of violating terms of their contracts. The group that planned the rally is not affiliated with any particular Prince William County professional organization.
