West Contra Costa Educators Prepare to Strike for Better Pay

In a significant development, educators from the West Contra Costa Unified School District are gearing up for a potential strike following protracted negotiations concerning their working conditions and compensation. After eight months of discussions, a remarkable 98% of union members from the United Teachers of Richmond have expressed their readiness to strike if necessary. They are advocating for a 10% pay raise over two years, full employer-paid health care, and improvements in staffing and student services.

The district’s response has been less favorable, with an offer of a 2% pay increase and 85% employer-paid health care. As tensions rise, banners and posters have emerged, signaling a united front among educators determined to negotiate better terms.

Community Support and Concerns

During a gathering in October, educators like Sandrine Demathieu and her colleague Masa Peterson voiced their commitment to their students and the sacrifices they have made to remain in education. Both emphasized the importance of long-term change, not just for individual students but for the education system as a whole. “Me teaching a student how to read impacts the rest of their life,” Peterson remarked, highlighting the interconnectedness of educational support and student success.

District Trustee Demetrio Gonzalez-Hoy acknowledged the educators’ goals while pointing out the district’s fiscal challenges. He cited inadequate state funding, cuts from previous administrations, and rising costs, particularly in special needs education, as contributing factors. Gonzalez-Hoy called for community collaboration to address these issues and emphasized the need for a fair contract that supports both educators and the district’s sustainability.

A report released on November 18 by the nonprofit organization Private Equity Stakeholder Action revealed that the district’s spending on outside contracts has surged from $59 million to $117 million over the past five years. This increase has led to higher expenditures on special services while simultaneously reducing the amount of direct support available to students.

Implications of a Potential Strike

As the negotiations continue, the district’s fiscal stability remains a pressing concern. Marcus Walton, spokesperson for the Contra Costa County Office of Education, noted that the district has struggled to hire adequate staff to meet the needs of its students. He recognized that decisions made were intended to best serve the community, but acknowledged the ongoing challenges.

Superintendent Cheryl Cotton addressed contract issues during a Board of Education meeting on November 19, stating the need for a more streamlined approach to contracts. Cotton, who returned to the district four months ago, expressed her commitment to supporting educators and classified staff, urging collaboration in finding solutions.

The district recently engaged in a state panel hearing involving representatives from both United Teachers of Richmond and Teamsters Local Union 856, which represents around 1,500 employees in various roles. A second panel hearing followed, with the outcome expected to provide nonbinding recommendations for both parties. Should an agreement not be reached, the unions will have the legal right to strike.

In light of these developments, Francisco Ortiz, president of the United Teachers of Richmond, indicated that a strike could commence as soon as December 3, 2023. Parents have expressed concerns about the potential impact on their children, with some planning to keep their children home to support educators during a possible strike.

The district has announced plans to increase substitute teacher pay to $550 per day for those who cross the picket line, a decision that has further irritated the teaching staff. Traditionally, substitutes earn around $250 per day in the district.

As negotiations remain ongoing, the union is also working on partnerships with local community organizations to support families who may face challenges during a strike. They have compiled a list of food banks to assist families reliant on school meals.

With the possibility of a strike looming, both educators and the district continue to seek a resolution that addresses the pressing needs of teachers and students alike. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly influence the educational landscape in West Contra Costa County.