Los Angeles School District and Workers’ Union Sign New Contract
After a year-long negotiation, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 99 have finally reached a tentative agreement on a new contract for support staff. The 4-year deal covers over 30,000 maintenance workers, custodians, cafeteria workers, and other school support personnel, and will go into effect on July 1, 2021, if approved by both parties.
Details of the Contract
– The new contract includes a 3% salary increase for the first two years, and a 2% increase for the last two years.
– The agreement also provides for a $1,000 bonus for all employees who work in LAUSD schools during the pandemic.
– Other benefits such as health care, paid time off, and retirement plans have also been improved.
– In addition, there will be a new labor-management committee tasked with addressing workplace safety, employee retention, and other concerns brought up by the SEIU.
This deal represents a significant win for the SEIU and its members, who have been advocating for better pay and working conditions for years. The union had threatened to go on strike if a deal wasn’t reached, which could have disrupted classes and left many students without support services.
Reaction from the Union and the School District
According to SEIU Local 99 executive director, Max Arias, “This is a victory that comes after long and tough negotiations, but it is worth it. With this new agreement, we are improving the lives of thousands of workers who are essential to the daily functioning of LAUSD schools.”
LAUSD Superintendent Austin Beutner praised the deal, saying, “Our school support personnel are the backbone of our schools, and this agreement recognizes the vital role they play in ensuring that our students have a safe, clean, and nurturing learning environment.”
Final Thoughts
This contract agreement is a sign of progress and collaboration between the LAUSD and the SEIU, despite the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. The inclusion of a bonus for employees working during the pandemic shows that the district recognizes the hard work and sacrifices made by its support staff during these difficult times.
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Summary: The Los Angeles School District and the SEIU Local 99 have reached a new contract agreement for support staff which includes salary increases, bonuses during the pandemic, and improved benefits. This victory represents a step forward for the union and shows collaboration between the parties involved. #NEWS
