Seattle classes canceled again as teachers strike enters 3rd day on Friday





SEATTLE (AP) — Classes are canceled for another day Friday as the Seattle school district and its teachers have failed to reach a contract agreement.

Seattle Public Schools spokesman Stacy Howard said Thursday afternoon that both sides are continuing to meet with mediators, but negotiations have not resumed.

Thousands of teachers began picketing Wednesday over pay, teacher evaluations and other issues. The walkout began Wednesday, on what was supposed to be the first day of school, and is affecting about 53,000 students.

The strike will enter its third day Friday, but the union says teachers will be doing community service on that day in honor of 9/11.

Washington Education Association spokesman Rich Wood said the strike is "an issue of respect." He says the school board is continuing talks about major issues they have been discussing all summer.