Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/1546952
Santa Cruz: United PCS wins contract after 20 months After 20 months of bargaining, United PCS won a contract that includes improve- ments to working conditions that will help stabilize staffing and keep teachers at Pacific Collegiate School (in Santa Cruz). United PCS members won their first raise since 2023, codified paid parental leave into their contract and reduced the number of days in their work year. These improvements will help the school better attract and retain the experienced and qualified educators their students deserve. United PCS wins include: • 3.5% raise retroactive to 2025–26 school year • 3.5% raise for the 2026–27 school year • 7% increase to all stipends for extra duties and advanced degrees • Reduced number of non-instruc- tional workdays to align with other Santa Cruz schools • Permanent inclusion of paid paren- tal leave language in the contract • A seat at the table for decisions made about technology in classrooms United PCS leaders are eager to continue working with families to con- tinue building toward the school their students deserve. Saddleback Valley: Educators organize to win supports for students Saddleback Valley Education Association (SVEA) members are rallying against overcrowded classrooms and unsustainable case- loads that impact students and educators alike. Since the district adopted its budget, it has received more than $30 million in new funds, specifically earmarked for special educa- tion and reducing learning loss — the pillars of SVEA's campaign. SVEA leaders say the funding is available for smaller class sizes and manageable caseloads, which will contribute directly to the target support and academic recovery their students need. In collaboration with parents and community, SVEA has been mobilizing and rallying to turn the funding into real support for Saddleback Val- ley students. Keep up with news on their fight on Facebook at @SaddlebackValleyEducators. #SmallerClassesBrighterFutures 44 cta.org Advocacy C M Y CM MY CY CMY K