Local 434 is proudly standing in solidarity with the West Frankfort Local 817 Teachers as they continue their fight for a fair contract. Members wore local union shirts and held signs in support and recognition of the reasonable requests and concessions West Frankfort teachers have made, as well as their unwavering commitment to what’s best for students.

Local 434 affirms that their fight is our fight, and they stand alongside West Frankfort educators in support and solidarity every step of the way.

Our halls across all three campuses were filled with 💙UNION BLUE💙 as Local 434 stood proudly in solidarity with the Cahokia Federation of Teachers (CFT).

CFT has been working without a contract for over a month, yet they remain committed to advocating for fair wages, better working conditions, and the resources students need to succeed. Their fight isn’t just theirs: it’s a fight that resonates with educators across the region, including Local 434.
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Our members recognize the reasonable requests and concessions made by Cahokia teachers and stand firmly beside them. This show of solidarity highlights the strength of our union community and the power of standing together for fair treatment and respect.

Today, Local 434 President Ashley Mims and Vice President Thomas Gallaher spoke directly with Governor Pritzker about the urgent need to fix Tier 2 retirement, sharing how delays in addressing this issue continue to discourage new educators from entering the profession and contribute to experienced educators leaving. Local leaders and members of SWAC (Southwest Area Council) attended, including Cyndi Oberle-Dahm—SWAC President, IFT Secretary-Treasurer, and Local 434 Past President.

While today’s event with Governor JB Pritzker focused on highlighting exciting investments in the Metro East — including the new Advanced Manufacturing Academy at SWIC and regional infrastructure improvements — leaders from Belleville Federation of Teachers Local 434 seized the opportunity to address Tier 2 inequality.

​Local 434 remains committed to advocating for fair retirement benefits while celebrating positive progress for our region.

Congratulations to our Local 434 retirees—your impact on students, families, and colleagues will be felt for years to come. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to education and to our union.
We also recognized members celebrating milestones in their careers—from year 1 to year 30. Every chapter in this profession matters, and we’re proud to celebrate each one. 

Below are photos of just a few of our recognized members for years of service!

What a great way to kick off summer! More than 150 Local 434 members from all three councils—teachers, aides, and our amazing administrative assistants—gathered at TR’s to celebrate the start of break with food, drinks, and camaraderie. We’re grateful for this time together and the strong community we’ve built!

Congratulations to Local 434 members Kayla Hosier and Teagan Gross! 

Two Belleville West teachers were recently honored by the Illinois State Board of Education through its prestigious Those Who Excel awards program.

Kayla Hosier, Spanish teacher, received a Special Recognition for Early Educators—an award honoring excellence within the first three years of teaching. Kayla’s passion, talent, and dedication have made a meaningful impact on her students and school community, and her colleagues, families, and administrators have taken notice!

Teagan Gross, Individualized Education teacher, was awarded the Award of Excellence—the highest honor given in the program. Teagan exemplifies what it means to be an educator: committed to equity, deeply collaborative, and constantly working to build a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Her work continues to inspire students, families, and fellow educators alike.

We are proud to have these outstanding educators in our Local 434 family. Congratulations, Kayla and Teagan!

Congratulations to our newly elected executive board! This marks the first board to serve under our unified federation structure, with equal representation from all three councils. We’re proud to take this next step forward—together. Members will serve through May 2027.