Classified employees urge board for pay and workplace supports during bargaining talks

Classified employees and union representatives used the public-comment period to press the board for tangible contract progress and improved workplace supports.

Elaine Johnson, a longtime paraprofessional, said respect means ‘‘proper tools and trainings’’ such as access to computers, sufficient staffing for safety and inclusion in professional learning. Diane Wilkinson, the labor representative for the classified bargaining unit, thanked the board for hearing staff input and said the two sides have made progress on many contract articles but remain apart on wages and benefits. Wilkinson warned that current district fiscal projections are being used to justify limits on raises and urged trustees to bridge the gap so layoffs are avoided.

Longtime district employee Terry Brusca provided historical context on pay erosion, noting a much higher wage relative to the state minimum when he started in 1996 and comparing that to current paraeducator starting wages. Nikki Lacrosse, first vice president of the classified union, told the board negotiating talks had completed many articles but said the union remains committed to securing a one-time payment now to address immediate needs for employees.

Superintendent Doctor Youssef responded to public comment by emphasizing ongoing negotiations and noting another session was scheduled the following day; he said district and union teams are continuing discussions.

What’s next: Negotiations continue; trustees and district staff said they expect more bargaining sessions and will report back on progress. Public comment requests included written confirmation of follow-up steps and a continued dialog about immediate wage relief versus multi-year projections.