Columbus teachers' union votes to strike days before start of school year

For the first time in nearly 50 years, Columbus teachers are officially on strike. The teachers union voted overwhelmingly Sunday night to reject the school board's "last, best and final offer" for a new contract.

Now, children and families are eyeing a virtual start to the school year if the dispute can't get resolved by Wednesday.

The union said more than 94% of its nearly 4,500 members voted to strike and to reject the school board's proposal.

The strike officially began one minute after midnight, as CEA's old contract with the district expired.

Members were picketing outside Columbus schools on Monday morning.

Union spokeswoman Regina Fuentes said the school board has "tried desperately" to make this impasse about economic issues, including salary. But she said teacher pay isn't the reason for the vote to strike.