A potential strike by SEIU Local 99 members at the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) has been averted following the announcement of a tentative agreement early Tuesday morning. The resolution, reached just hours before the school day was set to begin, ensures that hundreds of thousands of students and families will not face disruption.

Agreement Reached After Tense Negotiations

The tentative pact between LAUSD and SEIU Local 99 marks the final step in preventing a district-wide walkout. This agreement follows earlier tentative deals reached with United Teachers Los Angeles and the Associated Administrators of Los Angeles on Sunday. All three agreements are now pending ratification by union members and the Board of Education.

Key Wins for SEIU Local 99 Members

SEIU Local 99, representing approximately 30,000 essential workers including teacher aides, custodians, bus drivers, and cafeteria staff, announced the agreement via social media. The union highlighted significant gains for its members, who are often among the lowest-paid in the district with an average annual salary around $35,000.

  • Substantial wage increases and improved working hours.
  • Enhanced protections against subcontracting.
  • Increased staffing levels.
  • Prevention of layoffs for IT workers.

    • Contract Details and Benefits

    The proposed contract includes a 24% wage increase spread over its term. It also aims to expand healthcare benefits by increasing work hours for more staff to qualify. Additionally, the agreement rescinds planned layoffs for hundreds of technology support workers and places limitations on subcontracting services.

    Mayor's Role in Averting Strike

    Mayor Karen Bass played a pivotal role in facilitating the final negotiations. As an LAUSD alumna and a parent, she expressed gratitude for the commitment of all parties involved in reaching a resolution. Her intervention helped bridge the gap and prevent a strike that would have significantly impacted families and the community.

    Urgency and Ratification Process

    The urgency to finalize a deal was heightened by the fact that SEIU Local 99 members had been working under an expired contract since June 30, 2024. The Board of Education held closed sessions to discuss the negotiations. The tentative agreements now move to the respective union members and the Board of Education for final approval.

    The successful negotiation brings a sense of relief and stability to the LAUSD, ensuring the continuity of essential services and the continuation of education for its students.