West Contra Costa County educators prepare for looming strike

"Banners have been painted, posters printed, buttons pressed, all with a similar message: educators and other professionals represented by the United Teachers of Richmond are ready to fight for better pay, benefits, staffing levels and services for students. Educators are asking for a 10% raise over a two-year period, 100% employer-paid health care and improvements to class sizes, special education and other areas. The district has countered with a single 2% raise and 85% employer-paid health care."

"Demathieu and her colleague Masa Peterson were among dozens of educators and community members who gathered in October to prepare strike materials. With paintbrushes in hand, both talked about the sacrifices they've made to be teachers as their peers have gone on to more financially lucrative jobs, the love they have for their students and the concerns they have about vacancies, turnover rates and outsourcing services."

"Both were among the 98% of union members who voted to strike if necessary after their contract lapsed June 30. In teaching, you're fighting for long-term change, whether that's with an individual student or the education system as a whole, Peterson said. Me teaching a student how to read impacts the rest of their life. That student being able to get the appropriate supports also impacts the rest of their life. We're always thinking about the day-to-day and the larger picture."

Negotiations between United Teachers of Richmond and West Contra Costa Unified School District have reached an impasse eight months in, with most educators prepared to strike. Union demands include a 10% raise over two years, 100% employer-paid health care, and improvements to class sizes and special education. The district has offered a single 2% raise and 85% employer-paid health care. Community members and educators prepared strike materials and cited sacrifices, vacancies, turnover, and outsourcing as major concerns. Ninety-eight percent of union members voted to strike after the contract lapsed June 30. A trustee cited fiscal hardship from inadequate state funding and federal cuts.

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