BREAKING: West Contra Costa educators are on the brink of a strike as negotiations with the West Contra Costa Unified School District have stalled. With 98% of union members voting to strike if necessary, the urgency is palpable as the December 3 deadline approaches.
Educators, represented by the United Teachers of Richmond, are demanding a 10% raise over two years, full employer-paid health care, and improvements in class sizes and special education services. In stark contrast, the district’s current offer stands at just a 2% raise and 85% employer-paid health care.
“We are ready to fight for what our students deserve,” said Sandrine Demathieu, a teacher at Nystrom Elementary. Alongside fellow educator Masa Peterson, she expressed deep concern over staffing shortages and the ongoing challenges faced by teachers who have chosen to remain in the profession despite more lucrative opportunities elsewhere.
In a statement issued on November 20, district Trustee Demetrio Gonzalez-Hoy acknowledged educators’ goals but highlighted the district’s “genuine fiscal hardship” stemming from inadequate state funding and rising operational costs. He emphasized the need for community collaboration to reach a fair agreement.
A report released by the nonprofit watchdog group Private Equity Stakeholder Action revealed alarming trends: the district’s spending on outside contracts surged from $59 million to $117 million in five years, leading to fewer services for students, particularly those with special needs.
“We must build a future where great teachers and staff can stay,” Gonzalez-Hoy stated, echoing concerns raised by many in the community.
The district’s spokesperson, Marcus Walton, confirmed ongoing issues with staffing and fiscal stability, stressing the importance of providing necessary services to students. Meanwhile, Superintendent Cheryl Cotton addressed the need to reassess contracts during a Board of Education meeting, calling for a united effort to support educators and students alike.
As negotiations continue, the possibility of a strike becomes more imminent. Union President Francisco Ortiz warned that if no agreement is reached, a strike could commence as soon as December 3. Parents are already preparing for the impact, with some expressing intent to keep their children home for safety reasons.
Families could face significant disruptions, including potential bus transfers to different campuses or large group supervision in auditoriums. To support families reliant on school meals, the union is coordinating with local food banks and exploring partnerships with community organizations.
In a controversial decision, trustees agreed to raise pay for substitute teachers crossing the picket line to $550 per day, inflaming tensions among educators who typically earn around $250 per day.
As the situation develops, educators are gearing up for a potential strike that could significantly impact the West Contra Costa Unified School District. The community is encouraged to stay informed and engaged as negotiations unfold, with the next critical discussions set to occur in the coming days.
Stay tuned for ongoing updates as this situation evolves and the stakes grow higher for educators and students alike.
