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Tacoma teachers' strike keeps schools closed

TACOMA, Wash. — Schools are closed Monday for another day in Tacoma as negotiations continue between the school district and striking teachers.

The News Tribune reports talks went late Sunday night with the help of a state mediator.

Earlier Sunday, Tacoma Public School officials said they would withdraw some contract language on teacher transfers and reassignments. The district also offered a one-year grace period for the current seniority-based system — the biggest point of contention in contract talks.

The strike in Washington's third-largest school district has idled 28,000 students and sent most of its 1,900 teachers to picket lines.

Teachers voted to strike Sept. 12 and voted again last week to remain on strike despite a judge's order to return to work. The next court hearing is set for Sept. 27.

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