Linscott Returns as President of Teachers' Union in Strongsville

Tracy Linscott, who led Strongsville teachers through a brutal two-month strike this spring, has been re-elected president of the Strongsville Education Association.

Ian Steffen, who acted as Linscott's right hand during much of the strike and who made news when he was arrested for blocking substitute teachers' cars at Center Middle School, is the SEA vice president.

Linscott said she wanted to continue as president despite the pressure of the strike, which divided the community and ended without teachers getting the pay raises and other contract improvements they had sought. 

"Last (school) year was intense, however, I am committed to the teachers, students and the district," she said.

Steffen was charged with disorderly conduct March 6 after he blocked substitute teachers from entering the Center Middle School parking lot, despite warnings from police.

He pleaded no contest in Berea Municipal Court Aug. 14 and was ordered to pay $337 in court costs.

Other SEA officers elected this year are treasurer Sarah Silverstri and secretary Kristen Russ.