Students in Tinton Falls returned to school Wednesday morning a day after teachers went on strike, forcing the schools to close.

Teachers on Friday dropped off letters to the superintendent saying they weren't coming to work Tuesday. They have the right to do that under state law, which technically allows teachers a day off on Election Day.

The teachers have been working without a contract for three years. They say they earn $6,000 below the average salary for teachers in Monmouth County.

Last year, they turned down a 2.5 percent raise, saying it still wasn't enough.

The matter has been handed off to an independent Fact Finder.

The results may be ready by December.