According to a report by AP News, Los Angeles teachers have voted in favor of a new contract with the LA Unified School District to provide a 21% pay raise to educators, nurses, counselors, librarians, and other educational staff. This agreement results from months of negotiations between United Teachers Los Angeles (UTLA) and the school district.

The new contract includes an immediate 3% salary increase for teachers beginning July 1st, 2022, 4% on January 1st, 2023, and another 3% on July 1st, 2023. Additionally, it provides $20,000 per year salary increases for school nurses and $3,000 raises for school psychologists and psychiatric social workers. The deal also includes lower class sizes and more resources for students.

This agreement is a significant victory for Los Angeles UTLA members fighting for better wages and working conditions since 2019. It will improve the lives of thousands of Los Angeles educators dedicated to providing quality education to their students.

The new contract is a testament to the power of collective bargaining and shows what can be achieved when teachers stand together in solidarity. It’s a victory for Los Angeles UTLA members and all those who care about public education in Los Angeles.

In March, the teachers union largely backed the three-day strike of a separate association representing the district’s service workers, including bus drivers and cafeteria workers.

The strike, which led to a shutdown of the district, was ended quickly after the district reached a deal with the Service Employees International Union, whose members ratified the agreement in April.

However, both contracts still require approval from the district Board of Education. For example, the LA Unified School District, serving Los Angeles and all or part of 25 other cities and county areas, has over half a million students.

District Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho mentioned last month that the agreement “is a necessary step not only to make Los Angeles Unified the district of choice for families but also the district of choice for teachers and employees.”

Student Hires Programs

Student Hires is dedicated to increasing the career readiness of disadvantaged youth in our community through innovative and hands-on K-12 expanded learning programs. 

Led by college students, these programs provide a unique opportunity for young learners to gain valuable experience, develop new skills, and explore potential career paths. With the teacher’s union and the Los Angeles UTLA group agreeing, we can better serve our students in our after-school and expanded learning programs.

By partnering with schools and community organizations, Student Hires ensures all students can access these enriching experiences. With a focus on building practical competencies, such as problem-solving and critical thinking, these programs equip youth with the tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive job market. Join us in our mission to empower the next generation of leaders!

Conclusion

The new contract between the Teachers Union and the LA Unified School District is a massive victory for educators and students. It will result in improved wages and resources for educators, lower class sizes, and more job opportunities for youth. Hopefully, more educators will receive better pay and working conditions after feeling the effects of the recent pandemic. What are your thoughts on the recent developments? Let us know in the comments below.