Carmel Unified board approves tentative labor agreements and updated health‑and‑welfare contributions

The Carmel Unified School District Board approved a slate of labor and benefits items the board was asked to consider for plan year 2026.

Chief Human Resources Officer Craig Chavez presented agreements reached with bargaining units after negotiations that reflected increases to district contributions for employee health and welfare plans. The board moved and voted to approve the tentative agreement with the Association of Carmel Teachers (ACT), then approved a similar tentative agreement with the California School Employees Association (CSEA). The board also approved consolidated health‑and‑welfare rate sheets for unrepresented employees so that all employees receive similar contribution amounts, effective Jan. 1, 2026.

In separate action the board approved a memorandum of understanding with CSEA to reclassify one part‑time position to full‑time as a result of increased program services; the MOU codifies protections so the impacted employee is not negatively affected.

All four items were moved, seconded and passed by roll call with each present trustee voting yes.

Votes at a glance:

- Tentative agreement — Association of Carmel Teachers (plan year 2026): motion moved and seconded; roll‑call result: 5 yes, 0 no, 0 abstain. - Tentative agreement — CSEA (plan year 2026): roll‑call result: 5 yes, 0 no, 0 abstain. - Health & welfare rate sheets for unrepresented employees (2026): roll‑call result: 5 yes, 0 no, 0 abstain. - Memorandum of understanding with CSEA to reclassify a position: roll‑call result: 5 yes, 0 no, 0 abstain.

Next steps: the rate changes take effect on Jan. 1, 2026, and open enrollment is in process. HR staff remain available to answer employee questions.