The results are in and an overwhelming 94% YES vote by UTLA members puts the district on notice that we are united and ready to fight for a fair contract.

The vote does not mean educators are going on strike immediately. The results authorize the UTLA Board of Directors to call for a strike if LAUSD does not offer a fair contract that supports educators, our students, and our communities. Also on the same ballot, the Healthcare TA was ratified with a 99% YES vote.

With no agreement reached in mediation, contract negotiations have reached the fact-finding stage. During fact-finding, a panel will examine the position of both sides and issue a non-binding report. After the report is issued, UTLA members can strike if LAUSD still refuses to agree to a fair contract. A strike can be avoided at any point if the district decides to invest in educators and our schools, and meet the urgent needs identified in our proposals.

The district can afford to settle a fair contract with a raise that attracts and retains educators, adds more staffing to support students’ mental health, increases support for Special Education, expands arts and music, and more. Now is the time to maximize pressure on the district to get their priorities straight.