Photo: WBZ NewwsRadio/Matt Shearer
LAWRENCE, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) —After weeks of fighting and arrests in the halls of one local high school, teachers are demanding action.
Lawrence High School students are back in the classroom, but Kim Barry from the Lawrence Teachers Union says it hasn't been going as planned.
"I know there were numerous fights a couple weeks in a row and many teachers were injured, about five teachers went out and got medical attention," said Barry.
Before classes began on Monday morning, teachers, faculty, and community members rallied outside the high school.
City Councilor Pavel Payano said a show of solidarity was necessary. "We have tons of teachers that wake up every day thinking about these kids...and the last thing they want to think about is, is my kid going to be safe," said Payano.
READ MORE: North End Outdoor Dining Ending A Month Earlier Than Rest Of City
"We're here to say enough is enough, we're here to demand of schools and leadership that our students, parents and educators deserve more," said Barry.
They've pointed much of the blame on the state and say money's been mismanaged and students don't have the resources they need to come out of the pandemic trauma.
Barry called on the state to do more for children who were stuck at home for an entire year. She said more staff is needed and programs that will help student's cope with the pandemic.
"Thanks to a massive infusion of federal Covid relief dollars, the funds are there, release the funds now," demanded Barry.
WBZ NewsRadio's Matt Shearer (@MattWBZ) Reports:
Follow WBZ NewsRadio: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | iHeartmedia App