Board of Education approves community workforce agreement with trade councils

The Bassett Unified School District Board of Education made significant strides in community engagement and labor relations during their recent meeting on March 25, 2025. A key highlight was the board's unanimous approval of a community workforce agreement with the Los Angeles and Orange County's Building and Construction Trade Council. This agreement aims to prioritize local hiring for district construction projects, ensuring that qualified workers from the community are given first opportunity for employment.

Board members expressed pride in the agreement, emphasizing its importance in supporting local unions and investing in the community. One member noted that while there may be concerns about rising costs and project timelines, the investment in local labor is ultimately beneficial for the community. This commitment to high standards of work quality and safety for students was a recurring theme throughout the discussion.

In addition to the workforce agreement, the board also approved a resolution proclaiming March 31 as Cesar Chavez Day, recognizing the contributions of the civil rights leader and labor activist. This resolution reflects the district's ongoing commitment to honoring cultural heritage and promoting social justice.

The meeting concluded with discussions about improving the efficiency of board meeting minutes, with plans to streamline the process for future approvals. The next regular board meeting is scheduled for April 22, 2025, where further community-focused initiatives are expected to be discussed.