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Apple Valley teachers’ union reports 91% strike authorization, delivers no‑confidence resolution
Summary
The Apple Valley Unified Teachers Association reported a 91% strike‑authorization vote and presented a formal resolution of no confidence in Superintendent Tene Nelson; union leaders said the action follows unresolved bargaining and concerns about fiscal transparency.
The Apple Valley Unified Teachers Association (ABUDA) told trustees on Tuesday that its members have authorized strike action and formally expressed no confidence in Superintendent Tene Nelson.
Karen Sabers, the association leader, said ABUDA’s in‑person authorization vote recorded 91% support among those who voted, with 89% participation; she also handed the board a written resolution reflecting a 78% no‑confidence vote with 87% participation among certificated members. Sabers said the measures were taken because members “have experienced sustained and unresolved concerns regarding district leadership, fiscal responsibility, transparency, and accountability.”
ABUDA’s resolution cites perceived fiscal mismanagement, staffing choices made with one‑time funds and alleged failures to engage the association in meaningful collaboration. Sabers said the association will continue bargaining in good faith but is preparing for fact‑finding and possible job actions if negotiations do not resolve members’ concerns.
Union leaders emphasized solidarity across associations. JC Scott (CSEA Chapter 828) and other local associations expressed support for ABUDA and warned trustees that the proposed reductions in force would further strain district operations and student services.
The board received the resolution and the strike‑authorization report as part of union reports on the agenda; trustees did not act to block the report. The presentation marks an escalation in labor relations as the district proceeds with steps to reduce classified and certificated services.
The union encouraged board members to attend fact‑finding sessions and said it will continue outreach to other districts and associations for support. The district has not announced any change to its fiscal plan; trustees said they will continue required statutory steps while seeking more financial detail requested by the unions.
Next procedural steps include scheduled bargaining sessions, fact‑finding (if declared by the Public Employment Relations Board process), and the district’s administrative obligations related to the resolutions it adopted earlier in the meeting.
