The first day of the strike involving West Contra Costa Unified teachers and classified employees on Thursday brought picket lines, student absences and a charged atmosphere across the district.
At Korematsu and Mira Vista schools, striking members of United Teachers of Richmond and Teamsters 856, along with supporters, stood at every entrance, according to Standard reporter and district parent Kathy Chouteau. At Korematsu, no students were seen during the usual morning student drop-off, only strikers. At Mira Vista, young people walked the picket line with the adults. A member of the Mira Vista PTA reported that the parking lot was “mostly empty” and that “the community came out strong in support of our unions and our students.” Overall attendance at district schools today wasn’t immediately known.
Union organizers from United Teachers of Richmond framed the strike as a fight for fully staffed, stable, safe public schools and for a district that listens to educators and families. “Our voices are powerful, our unity unbreakable,” they said, inviting supporters to join picket lines and an 11 a.m. rally at Veterans Memorial Park.
Superintendent Cheryl Cotton responded in a statement this morning, saying the strike was “very unsettling for our students and families.” She said district staff are working to keep schools open and safe, urged picketers not to block families trying to enter campuses, and reminded families that independent study is available. Cotton also countered reported claims that the district has failed to negotiate, noting recent bargaining sessions and a proposal based on a state fact-finding report.
Last month, after teachers overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike, the WCCUSD Board approved emergency measures to reassign staff, hire substitutes and contractors at up to $550 per day, and work with outside agencies to protect students and sustain instruction.
The strike follows months of failed negotiations over pay, staffing and classroom conditions. Read our previous report for more background.
