"Stuck in contentious negotiations over new contracts, two West Contra Costa Unified School District unions have overwhelmingly voted in favor of striking if district leadership cannot adequately meet their demands. More than 95% of members represented by the United Teachers of Richmond and Teamsters Local 856 separately voted recently to authorize strikes. That means about 3,000 district employees, from teachers and education specialists to maintenance and food service workers, could walk off the job if deals aren't struck in the coming months."
"Our district needs to prioritize stability for our students, now, United Teachers of Richmond President Francisco Ortiz said in a press release announcing the vote. We are committed to do whatever it takes to win the fully staffed classrooms our students so desperately need. Contracts for both unions expired June 30 after negotiations on new contracts began in early 2025. Similar sticking points have led to impasses in the separate negotiation processes, now requiring a third party to assist with mediation and fact-finding."
"But union members have argued the district could afford to meet union demands in part by adjusting the amount spent on contracted services. Teamsters are the backbone of the West Contra Costa Unified School District and should be treated as such, said Peter Finn, secretary-treasurer of Local 856, in a statement. Workers know the essential services they provide to students and their families throughout the region and won't settle for less than they deserve."
Two West Contra Costa Unified School District unions overwhelmingly authorized strike votes, with more than 95% of United Teachers of Richmond and Teamsters Local 856 members approving. Approximately 3,000 employees across teaching, specialist, maintenance, and food service roles could walk out if agreements are not reached. Contracts expired June 30 after negotiations began in early 2025, and separate impasses have required third-party mediation and fact-finding before a legal strike can occur. Unions demand higher pay, better staffing, and improved conditions while the district faces fiscal instability and recent multi-million-dollar budget cuts. Unions argue funds could be reallocated from contracted services.
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