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Union and advocates raise questions about special-education staffing guide as board adopts special-education budget
Summary
Public commenters and union representatives said a new special-education staffing guide consolidates dozens of paraprofessionals and teachers and that bargaining and community consultation were insufficient; the board adopted the special-education annual budget and service plan at the public hearing required by AB602.
At the required public hearing to adopt the annual special-education budget and service plan, advocates and union representatives raised concerns about a newly implemented staffing guide that they say consolidates positions and was not adequately negotiated or shared with stakeholders.
Susan Solomon of United Educators of San Francisco said the staffing guide resulted in consolidation affecting roughly 82 paraprofessional positions and at least 23 teachers and that the union was not properly consulted. "We believe this does bring about changes to our contract, and we are in bargaining right now," Solomon said, adding concerns about teachers being required to teach outside credential areas and potential noncompliance with state rules.
The district responded that special-education redesign work is ongoing, staff have met with the community (including a recent town hall) and that they will continue to provide town halls and opportunities for further input. Deputy superintendent and special-education leadership acknowledged that staffing shifts occurred and said they will collaborate with stakeholders to refine implementation.
Meanwhile the board voted to adopt the special-education budget and service plan to comply with AB602 timelines. The adoption was recorded as approval by roll-call (6 ayes, 1 absent). The board and staff agreed to continue communication with advocates and parents about staffing changes and implementation details.
