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Union Negotiations

About

About

Washington Unified School District (WUSD) is committed to open and transparent negotiations with our labor partners. Through collective bargaining, we work collaboratively to ensure competitive compensation, robust benefits, and fair working conditions for our employees, while upholding our responsibility to fiscal stewardship and the education of every student. 

This page serves as an archive and resource for all updates, documents, and FAQs related to negotiations between WUSD and our employee associations, including the West Sacramento Teachers Association (WSTA) and the Classified School Employees Association (CSEA). We encourage our school community to access these materials to stay informed and engaged.
WUSD Negotiations Update as of January 12, 2026

WUSD Negotiations Update as of January 12, 2026

On Monday, January 12, 2026, the WUSD and WSTA bargaining teams met with the California Public Employee Relations Board (PERB)-appointed mediator for the second mediation session. These sessions are confidential under state mediation rules, so the District cannot share specific details of the discussions. However, both WUSD and WSTA agreed to come back for a third mediation session on Friday, January 23, 2026, with the shared goal of reaching a fair, sustainable agreement. We will continue to keep our staff and community informed as to the progress of negotiations. 
wusd offer to WSTA AS OF OCT. 30

wusd offer to WSTA AS OF OCT. 30

History of Certificated Employee Compensation

History of Certificated Employee Compensation

General Fund Expenditures

General Fund Expenditures

Cost of Salary Increases to the General Fund

Cost of Salary Increases to the General Fund


Description Salary Statutory Benefits
Cost of a
1% Increase
Cost of a
4.5% Increase
WSTA $412,943 $94,935 $507,878 $2,285,451
CSEA $179,503 $66,236 $245,739 $1,105,826
Certificated Mgmt $58,496 $13,448 $71,944 $323,748
Confidential EE & Classified Mgmt $20,918 $7,719 $28,637 $128,867
Total Cost for All Groups $854,198 $3,843,891
 
Resources

Resources

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

Why are negotiations taking place with the West Sacramento Teachers Association?

 
Negotiations occur as part of the collective bargaining process, through which salary, benefits, and working conditions are reviewed and negotiated between WUSD and WSTA.

If the COLA doesn’t automatically increase WUSD certificated staff salaries, then how do the salaries increase?

Certificated staff in WUSD are compensated through several ways, reflecting professional growth, career longevity, and ongoing negotiations. These forms of compensation include:
  • Step Increases: Employees receive automatic annual raises based on years of service within the district. This repeats until each employee reaches their longevity step.
  • Column Increases: Additional pay for earning advanced degrees or credentials.
  • Negotiated Salary Increases: Percentage changes to salary schedules applied to all eligible employees after collective bargaining agreements. Negotiated increases are in addition to automatic annual step increases.
  • Benefits: District-paid health, dental, vision, and related benefits.
  • Stipends and One-Time Payments: Extra compensation for specific roles, additional duties, or special agreements. (e.g., after-school tutoring, Department Chairs, professional development learning).

How does WUSD ensure transparency in negotiations and budgeting?

 
Budget decisions are openly discussed in public Board meetings and made available on the WUSD Budget and Financials webpage. Community members are encouraged to review these materials and submit questions as part of our commitment to transparency.

Are teachers leaving WUSD due to low pay?

 
While some teachers have moved to other districts, WUSD’s movement rate is consistent with District norms and is often related to natural attrition, such as retirements, relocations, or personal career changes, not solely as a result of compensation concerns.

Is funding for the new district office facility being taken from teacher salaries or classroom budgets?

 
No. The money allocated for the proposed district office project is restricted by state law for capital improvements and cannot be used for salaries, staffing, or classroom needs. There is no competition for funds between this proposal and compensation for teachers and staff. 

Why was $16 million placed in “Fund 17” last September, and why can’t it be used for teacher salaries or benefits?

 
Fund 17, also known as the Special Reserve Fund for Other Than Capital Outlay, is a legally designated fund used by California school districts for specific, restricted purposes such as long-term financial stability and addressing future liabilities or emergencies. The $16 million referenced was placed in this restricted fund as part of responsible fiscal management, ensuring the District can address unforeseen obligations and protect the District’s financial health during uncertain times. 

Where can I access past updates and future information?

 
All archived statements, meeting summaries, contract documents, and future updates will be posted on this Collective Bargaining webpage for easy access by all staff, families, and community partners.