Big news from Tucson: after months of negotiating and organizing, they've reached an agreement with the district that includes 12 weeks of paid parental leave for Tucson teachers and school staff!
The agreement also includes raises of $1,500-$2,500 raises for classroom teachers and certified staff, 1% raises for education support professionals (with an additional stipend for those who qualify), and a sick leave sellback policy, among other wins.
The school board has approved most elements of the agreement already, and they're expected to approve the paid parental leave policy within the next few weeks. That will make Tucson the first district in the state to offer 12 weeks of paid parental leave!
Over the last few years, the Tucson Education Association has been engaged in a serious, long-term effort to build power. They've grown their membership significantly and engaged members in campaigns for better working conditions at individual schools and worksites. They've spoken up at board meetings, organized actions and even made an official commitment to become a strike-ready union.
The demand for paid parental leave came directly from rank-and-file educators in Tucson who saw how difficult it was for new parents to stay in the district. Educators shared deeply personal testimony at a spring school board meeting about how hard it was for them to care for their families, fulfill their work responsibilities and make ends meet without any form of paid parental leave. And after organizing, campaigning and speaking out, Tucson educators won!
Congratulations to TEA on this victory and on all you're doing to build power and make positive change.
