UPDATE: With tensions escalating, educators in the West Contra Costa Unified School District are poised to strike as soon as December 3, 2023. After months of stalled negotiations, over 98% of union members from the United Teachers of Richmond have voted to take action for better pay, benefits, and support for their students.
The educators are demanding a 10% raise over the next two years, full employer-paid health care, and improved staffing and class sizes. In stark contrast, the district has countered with a mere 2% raise and 85% employer-paid health care. The growing discontent has led to the creation of banners, buttons, and posters reflecting the urgency of their fight.
“We’re ready to fight for our students and our profession,” said Sandrine Demathieu, a teacher at Nystrom Elementary School. She emphasized that unity among educators and community support would expedite the resolution of their strike. Fellow teacher Masa Peterson echoed these sentiments, highlighting the long-term impact educators have on student lives.
Despite the urgency, district Trustee Demetrio Gonzalez-Hoy acknowledged the financial strain on the district, attributing it to insufficient state funding and rising operational costs. He called for collaboration within the community to address these challenges, asserting, “We must build a future where great teachers can grow and dedicate their careers to WCCUSD.”
A report from Private Equity Stakeholder Action revealed that spending on outside contracts has surged from $59 million to $117 million over five years, straining resources meant for direct student services. This has raised concerns regarding hiring necessary staff for special education and other essential services.
The district’s Superintendent Cheryl Cotton admitted during a recent Board of Education meeting that spending cuts are essential. “The district office must support our school sites and education professionals,” Cotton stated, urging for collaborative solutions.
A state panel hearing on November 19 brought together representatives from the district’s two unions, United Teachers of Richmond and Teamsters Local Union 856, which represents about 1,500 employees. The outcome of this hearing will lead to a nonbinding report that could influence future negotiations. If no agreement is reached, a strike remains a legal option for the unions.
In a bid to avert a strike, district spokesperson Raechelle Forrest assured that discussions will continue into next week, emphasizing the need for a fair resolution to protect students.
Meanwhile, a tentative agreement was reached with the Teamsters, proposing a 3% raise for members, but educators represented by the United Teachers of Richmond remain skeptical about their negotiations. Union President Francisco Ortiz indicated that the disparity between demands and district offers may lead to a strike as early as December 3.
For families, a strike could trigger significant disruptions, including student relocations and large group monitoring in auditoriums or cafeterias. Some parents have voiced intentions to keep their children home to support educators and ensure their safety on the picket line.
In response to the impending strike, the district’s trustees have increased pay for substitutes crossing the picket line to $550/day, a move that has sparked further dissatisfaction among teachers, as typical substitute pay hovers around $250/day.
The union is also working on partnerships with local community organizations to provide support and services to families during a potential strike. They have curated a list of food banks to assist those who rely on school meals.
As negotiations continue, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. The decisions made in the coming days will have lasting consequences for educators, students, and the entire West Contra Costa community. Stay tuned for updates as this situation develops.
