Robla Teachers Association urges school board to settle contract before new school year

The Robla School District Board Meeting held on May 8, 2025, highlighted pressing concerns regarding educator retention and student achievement, as well as initiatives aimed at improving literacy among students.

A key focus of the meeting was the report from the Robla Teachers Association (RTA), where President Leah Boylan emphasized the urgent need for a new contract for educators. With only five weeks left in the school year, RTA members expressed anxiety over the ongoing negotiations, which have seen some progress but still lack resolution on critical issues. Boylan pointed out that many teachers are considering leaving the district due to unsatisfactory working conditions and compensation, which could further impact student learning. The statistics shared during the meeting were alarming: the percentage of students below standard in English Language Arts (ELA) has surged from 29.5% in 2019 to 61.1% in 2024, while math scores have similarly declined.

The RTA's call for action was clear: to improve student achievement, the district must invest in its educators by offering competitive salaries and better working conditions. Boylan highlighted that Robla's teacher salaries are the lowest in the area, with a significant gap compared to neighboring districts. The current reserve funds of over $23 million, which represent more than 63% of the district's yearly operating budget, were pointed out as a potential resource to address these issues.

In addition to the discussions on teacher contracts, the meeting also featured updates from the Robla Education Foundation. Initiatives such as a new reading program aimed at improving literacy among struggling students were introduced. The program will reward top-performing students with prizes and involve their parents, fostering a community approach to education.

As the Robla School District navigates these challenges, the outcomes of the ongoing negotiations and the effectiveness of new educational programs will be crucial in shaping the future of both educators and students in the community. The board's next steps will be vital in addressing these pressing concerns and ensuring that the needs of both teachers and students are met.