LAUSD Prepares for Possible Strike with Contingency Plans
Strike Looms as Negotiations Continue Between LAUSD and Labor Unions
In a developing situation, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is preparing for a potential strike set to begin on Tuesday if no agreements are reached with three labor unions. The district announced its extensive contingency plans in anticipation of the strike, the first since 2019.
On Thursday, a mediation session was held between LAUSD representatives and SEIU Local 99 Education Workers United, which represents numerous non-teaching district employees. If an agreement is not reached, SEIU Local 99 is poised to join two other unions in a strike next week.
The district has expressed a commitment to avoiding a walkout but is bracing for the possibility. Preparations include provisions for online learning and food distribution. "In the event a strike takes place, the District has developed comprehensive contingency plans designed to ensure we are providing available support in a range of scenarios," an LAUSD spokesperson stated. "These preparations include plans to support continuity of learning, including take-home instructional materials and access to online learning."
Additionally, the district aims to supply devices and connectivity options for students, maintain food support for families, and coordinate with community partners for necessary resources, including mental health support. Families without district devices have received communication to contact their schools for assistance.
SEIU Local 99, which represents cafeteria workers, special education assistants, custodians, and bus drivers, is pushing for more stable work schedules and is also concerned about recent layoffs affecting some of its members. The LAUSD Board of Education approved around 700 layoffs as part of measures to alleviate budgetary pressures. The district has proposed a 13% salary increase over three years; however, the union is demanding more favorable terms.
Negotiations with Local 99 follow ongoing discussions with United Teachers Los Angeles (UTLA), the union representing district teachers. No agreement was reached in their talks earlier this week, leading to a scheduled meeting on Saturday.
On Monday, LAUSD met with the AALA/Teamsters 2010 Unit M, negotiating a 10% wage increase for principals and administrators. If negotiations fail, the three unions are prepared to strike as soon as Tuesday. Even if two unions come to agreements, disruptions at LAUSD campuses are still expected.
The district reiterated its focus on preventing a strike while valuing ongoing negotiations. "Negotiations are ongoing today, and the District remains committed to reaching an agreement that supports our employees while also protecting the long-term financial stability of the District," a spokesperson emphasized.
As negotiations continue, the district remains hopeful for a resolution that satisfies all parties while addressing the financial realities at play.
