Dozens of teachers and union leaders urge Washington Unified board to address pay and benefits

Dozens of teachers, parents and union representatives urged the Washington Unified School District board on Sept. 11 to prioritize teacher pay and benefits amid rising turnover and competition from neighboring districts.

WSTA President Nepp told the board that recent staff losses include several highly regarded educators and argued the district is at a competitive disadvantage. "Most urban schools around us pay 20‑year professionals about $20,000 a year more," Nepp said, adding that some neighboring districts provide fully covered family health insurance while West Sacramento employees face monthly family premiums.

Public commenters across 14 speakers described similar concerns. "I have been with this district for 12 years, and I'm tired of losing good, dedicated teachers due to lack of pay and benefits," said Eileen Piper, a resource specialist at Elkhorn Village. Several teachers said they love their students and communities but cannot afford to stay: "We can't rely on passion alone to keep teachers here," said Cindy, who told the board she returned to teach at her alma mater but is weighing leaving because of compensation.

Speakers pressed the board to accept the bargaining team's offer and to provide a transparent, timely path toward higher, competitive salaries. Nikhiva Gregory, who said she is in her 26th year with WUSD, asked, "Why doesn't our district believe teachers deserve a 7% raise when other districts around us are offering 10 to 15%?"

Board members acknowledged the message and said they value educators. In response to concerns about the timing of a $12 million facilities acquisition discussed at the same meeting, Chief Business Officer Monique Sova clarified that the acquisition funding would come from state-restricted facilities funds and "may only be used for facilities," adding, "No dollars have been diverted for the acquisition of a district property."

Trustees said they are working with union partners and staff to identify one-time and recurring budget options and noted recent finance-subcommittee discussions about potential one-time commitments for technology, facilities and curriculum. Trustee comments also included invitations to teachers to discuss priorities directly with board members.

The meeting record shows union and public pressure at the board level; any changes to salary schedules or benefits will require further board action and formal budget decisions.