Teachers and staff at Toad Hill Montessori Inc. (THMI) in Madison have petitioned for a union representation election, marking a significant development that could lead to the first private school teachers’ union in Wisconsin, according to a press release. Around two dozen employees, representing the school’s various programs, have organized under the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU) Local 39. The unionization effort stems from concerns over low pay, insufficient benefits, and lack of job security, despite a shared passion for the school’s mission and students.
The election is set for Oct. 2, following the school management’s rejection of the workers’ request for voluntary recognition of the union. If successful, the union would aim to improve compensation, health insurance, and working conditions, which teachers argue are directly tied to students’ learning environments.
