LAUSD and Non-Teaching Staff Union Prepare for Mediation Talks
Potential Strike Looms as Union Negotiations Continue with LAUSD
A mediation session is set for Thursday between the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) and SEIU Local 99 Education Workers United, representing thousands of non-teaching staff. The urgency of these talks stems from the looming possibility of a strike as the unions push for new contracts.
If an agreement is not reached, SEIU Local 99 plans to join two other unions, also in contract negotiations, in a coordinated strike. This union includes workers such as cafeteria staff, special education assistants, custodians, and bus drivers.
Max Arias, Executive Director of SEIU Local 99, emphasized that a strike would be considered a "last resort" as the union remains open to dialogue with the district.
In response, LAUSD representatives stated that they are negotiating in good faith. The district has proposed a contract that includes a 13% salary increase over three years, but the union is seeking more substantial compensation. Local 99 is also advocating for more stable work schedules and opposing recent layoff announcements impacting about 700 employees, part of the district’s budgetary adjustments.
The stakes are high, as these negotiations unfold just a day after discussions between LAUSD and United Teachers Los Angeles (UTLA), which represents the district’s teachers. UTLA is pushing for a comprehensive salary increase, including a one-time bonus of 3% for the current school year followed by a permanent salary boost starting at 4% in July, with subsequent raises planned through 2028.
According to the Los Angeles Times, the starting salary for teachers is proposed to increase from $68,695 to $77,670, alongside significant adjustments to the automatic raises tied to experience and educational qualifications. LAUSD countered with a $480 million cost estimate to meet the UTLA proposals, claiming their offers demonstrate commitment to reaching an agreement.
Additionally, AALA/Teamsters Local 2010, which represents principals and administrators, is also involved in negotiations seeking a 7% salary increase for the current school year, followed by a 6% raise the next year. The district’s offer stands at a 4% raise for both years.
Should negotiations stall, the three unions are prepared to initiate a strike as early as Tuesday. Even if two unions reach agreements, significant disruptions are still expected across LAUSD campuses.
In a related event on Thursday, parents, students, educators, and community members from Reclaim Our Schools LA will convene for a news conference advocating for a fair contract resolution with both UTLA and SEIU Local 99. Speakers will include notable figures from local organizations aimed at bolstering community support for educators and their demands.
