by KYW's vice president and general manager David Yadgaroff

There are compelling reasons to view teachers in the same light as police and firemen. They are essential to community vitality, even safety. They also have a lifelong effect on our kids.

But when they’re on the picket line instead of at the blackboard (or computer terminal), the life of the community becomes chaotic.

A pair of legislative proposals to ban teacher strikes in Pennsylvania is on the table in Harrisburg. The one that shows the most promise is modeled on a Connecticut law that has effectively halted teacher strikes there. It makes sense because it takes into consideration a wide range of community interests.

Under the plan, in the event of a stalemate each side’s "last, best offer" goes to an arbitration panel. But then the arbitrators' decision goes to a judge who considers, among other things, the community’s ability to pay for the contract.

Teachers' unions don’t like strike bans. School boards don’t like binding arbitration. But it’s not about them; it’s about the students.

Police and firefighters can’t strike. Teachers shouldn’t be able to, either.

To submit a comment or reply to this editorial, send an e-mail to yadgaroff@KYW.com.