URGENT UPDATE: Educators from the West Contra Costa Unified School District are poised to strike as contract negotiations reach a critical juncture. With 98% of union members voting in favor of a walkout, the December 3, 2023 deadline looms, fueling a growing sense of urgency among educators and families alike.
Teachers represented by the United Teachers of Richmond are demanding a 10% pay raise over two years, 100% employer-paid health care, and improved support for students, particularly in special education. In stark contrast, the district has only offered a 2% raise and 85% employer-paid health care.
“We’re ready to fight for what our students deserve,” said Sandrine Demathieu, a teacher at Nystrom Elementary School, emphasizing the sacrifices educators make for their students. The community has rallied behind teachers, with banners and buttons expressing solidarity in their call for better working conditions.
The financial strain on the district is palpable, as Trustee Demetrio Gonzalez-Hoy acknowledged the challenges posed by inadequate state funding and rising costs, stating, “We must build a future where great teachers and staff can stay.” However, he also pointed to the district’s spending on outside contracts, which has surged from $59 million to $117 million over the past five years, raising concerns about fiscal responsibility.
In a clear indication of the discontent brewing among educators, union president Francisco Ortiz warned that a strike could commence as soon as December 3. This potential strike would disrupt the education of thousands of students, with plans in place to bus students to different campuses or supervise them in large groups. Some parents have already indicated they may keep their children home out of concern for their safety during a strike.
As negotiations continue, the district has reached a tentative agreement with the Teamsters Local Union 856, offering a 3% raise for its members, but tensions with the United Teachers of Richmond remain high. The district is under pressure to resolve these issues quickly, with spokesperson Raechelle Forrest stating, “We are committed to continuing these discussions… to try to reach a fair resolution and avert a strike.”
Community support is vital in this struggle. Ortiz mentioned that the union has curated a list of local food banks to assist families who depend on school meals, highlighting the human impact of the impending strike on the community.
As the clock ticks down, the focus shifts to the upcoming negotiations and the community’s response. Will educators secure the support they need, or will the district’s financial challenges lead to a strike that could impact countless students? The stakes are high, and the outcome remains uncertain.
