Fairfield, CA – The Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District (FSUSD) and the Fairfield Suisun Unified Teachers Association (FSUTA) are pleased to announce a tentative agreement on key issues regarding salary, benefits, and evaluations. In light of the ongoing California budget crisis, both parties believe that this agreement represents the best possible outcome for all involved. This agreement reflects the commitment of the Governing Board and FSUTA, recognizing the dedication of our educators in support of our students.
Key Highlights of the Tentative Agreement:
Salary Increases:
Effective July 1, 2024, a 1.5% salary increase will be implemented across various salary schedules, including the Certificated Teacher Salary Schedule, Speech-Language Pathology and Nurses Salary Schedule, Adult Education Salary Schedule, Permit Teacher Salary Schedule, and all other relevant schedules and stipends. Additionally, a new step 25 will be added to the Certificated Teacher Salary Schedule, representing a 3% increase from step 24.
Special Education Salary Schedule:
A new salary schedule, labeled "Schedule S," will be established for unit members holding and using a Special Education Credential to serve students in designated special education classroom settings. This schedule will represent a 5% increase over Schedule A.
BCLAD Credential Stipend:
Unit members holding a BCLAD Credential and using it to serve students in designated dual immersion classroom settings will receive a $1,500 stipend.
Health Benefits:
Beginning December 1, 2024, the district will provide health benefits equivalent to the Single Kaiser amount per month per employee or $1,122.00, whichever is less.
One-Time Payout:
A one-time payout of $3,000.00 will be issued to each 1.0 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) by June 30, 2024. Part-time employees will receive a proportional amount based on their FTE status. To be eligible, employees must be employed on or before May 15, 2024.
New Employee Salary Placement:
Starting July 1, 2024, new employees will be placed on the salary schedule based on credentialed service earned in public schools in California or other states, or in accredited private schools for grades TK-12. Employees can request a reevaluation of their years of service if they believe they have lost years of service from another district.
Evaluation Process:
The parties will meet to collaboratively bargain Article 10, Evaluation, prior to the start of the 2024-2025 school year. Discussions will commence in June 2024.
Superintendent Jennifer Sachs stated, "We are proud to have reached this agreement with FSUTA with the support from the state appointed mediator. By prioritizing collaboration and open communication, we have been able to find solutions that benefit both our educators and our students. This agreement reflects our shared commitment to providing a high-quality education for all students in Fairfield-Suisun Unified."
FSUTA President Pam Williamson added, “This week, California Teachers Association (CTA) reached an agreement with Governor Newsom to protect Prop 98 funding and is sending his recommendation to the legislature. Now it is up to the lawmakers to protect and value public education.”
The agreement is pending ratification by the FSUTA membership by June 10, 2024 and approval from the FSUSD Governing Board at the June 27, 2024 board meeting.