PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Central Ohio Worker Center has partnered with The Northeast Ohio Worker Center and the DePaul Labor Center to bring a High School Collective Bargaining Program to Central Ohio in 2025. This interactive collective bargaining experience examines labor relations with high school students. Notably, the curriculum addresses labor conflicts that are meaningful and complex, offered in a student-centered and participatory environment. The outcomes are not predetermined; instead, they depend on the critical thinking efforts of students both individually and collectively. We hope students learn that nothing in history or contemporary society is inevitable, and that we all have the ability to shape our futures in the workplace and beyond.
This program builds off the successful development and deployment of the bargaining exercise curriculum across the country and for the first time in Franklin County.
PROGRAM DESIGN
The Collective Bargaining Program can be customized to meet the needs of participating communities, but generally, the following can be expected:
A full day experience at a labor or union hall for participation in the program with volunteer coaches from local unions.
Breakfast and lunch will be provided for students.
Opportunity to participate in a Youth Advisory Board.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
Local labor unions, allied organizations, and community activists are encouraged to get involved and support this experience. There are several ways you can help:
Union activists with bargaining experience can serve as volunteer coaches to assist students with the bargaining process.
Financial contributions can help offset the cost of meals, supplies, and stipends for students.
Connect us with high school students who might be interested in this experience.
