Evergreen Public Schools Closed Amid Ongoing Strike

Picket line outside Evergreen Public Schools with union members holding signs

Vancouver, WA, September 8, 2025

News Summary

Evergreen Public Schools in Vancouver, WA, will remain closed due to a strike led by the Public School Employees (PSE) union. This marks the second consecutive Monday of class cancellations, impacting thousands of students. Negotiations between the district and the union have stalled, leading to a commitment from union members for daily picketing. The district plans to provide free meals and child care options to assist affected families while sports activities will continue without district-provided transportation. The situation remains uncertain as both sides seek a resolution.

Vancouver, WA – Evergreen Public Schools will remain closed on Monday due to an ongoing strike led by the Public School Employees (PSE) Large Group classified union. The strike has prompted class cancellations for the second consecutive Monday, affecting thousands of students in the Vancouver-area district.

Despite ongoing negotiations during the weekend, no agreement was reached between the district and the union, leading to the continuation of the strike that began on August 22, just as students were preparing to return for the new school year. During the strike, school buildings will be closed; however, the Administrative Service Center will operate normal hours from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Union members have committed to daily picketing at the District Office from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 13413 N.E. LeRoy Haagen Memorial Drive in Vancouver. The union disputes the district’s claims regarding the negotiation process, asserting that it was the district that requested to terminate discussions after the PSE made five proposals while the district countered with only one.

Mindy Troffer-Cooper, President of Evergreen PSE, has emphasized the union’s commitment to negotiating in good faith, stating their effort is aimed at addressing needs for both employees and students. The district’s bargaining teams met over the weekend and are scheduled to reconvene on Monday morning to strive for a fair and sustainable agreement given current budget constraints.

In light of the strike, the district has implemented measures to assist affected students and families. Free meals will be provided at two high schools: Heritage High School from 9 to 10:30 a.m. and Mountain View High School from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Additionally, child care options have been expanded, with Right at School operating Family Care Camps at nine elementary schools from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. The Clark County Family YMCA is also offering camps for district students from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

While middle and high school athletics and activities will proceed, parents should note that transportation will not be provided by the district. Families can expect schedules and location details directly from their respective schools.

On Friday, the Evergreen Public Schools Board of Directors voted unanimously to allow legal action against the striking workers, categorizing the strike as unlawful. The union previously rejected the district’s “final offer” during a vote taken the Thursday before the ongoing negotiations.

Background of the Strike

The strike began as students were expected to resume classes for the new school year, resulting in significant challenges for families regarding child care and meal provisions. Uncertainties continue as the district and union strive to resolve their differences, aiming for a resolution that addresses the needs of students, classified employees, and the school system as a whole.

Key Details of the Strike

  • Beginning Date: August 22
  • Union: PSE Large Group classified union
  • Strike Status: Ongoing
  • District Response: No deal reached; legal action approved against strikers
  • Meals Offered: Heritage High School & Mountain View High School
  • Child Care Services: Right at School and Clark County Family YMCA

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Evergreen Public Schools closed?

Evergreen Public Schools are closed due to a strike by the Public School Employees (PSE) union, which began on August 22. This strike has led to class cancellations and challenges for students and families.

What provisions are being made for students during the strike?

Free meals are being provided at Heritage High School and Mountain View High School, along with expanded child care options at various elementary schools and through the YMCA.

What are the next steps for negotiations?

The district and union are scheduled to meet again on Monday morning. Both parties are seeking a fair and sustainable agreement amidst the current budget conditions.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Additional Resources

STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER

HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

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