Secondary teachers feel the public's on their side - in their pursuit of better pay

Nearly 20-thousand walked off the job today -- after rejecting a three percent pay raise over three years.

They say the offer's appalling - falling out of step with inflation and failing to address other staffing, professional development and support concerns.

PPTA president Chris Abercrombie says public support for teachers is strong.

He says parents know why teachers are taking action - and there was heaps of tooting at the various pickets and more support online.

Chris Abercrombie says the union will meet for bargaining again next week.