NEWARK, NJ — Almost 200 Newark public school workers voted to join their peers as members of the 4,000-strong Newark Teachers Union (NTU) last week. The 189 new union members include operations managers and assistants, community engagement specialists, family advocates, partnership and transition coordinators and data analysts, according to the American Federation of Teachers New Jersey (AFTNJ).

AFTNJ President Donna Chiera opined that "wall-to-wall" union recognition of workers in a district is beneficial and will "lead to improved internal communication and collaboration."

The New Jersey's Public Employment Relations Commission (PERC) certified the majority vote on Halloween, the AFTNJ stated.

"Having consistent policies and benefits for workers will help as Newark moves to local control," Chiera said.

See related article: Newark Regains Control Of Local Schools After 22-Year State Takeover

The NTU filed authorization for representation cards with PERC in mid-August. Most of the workers are on 12-month schedules, the AFTNJ stated.