Community Update: Labor Agreements & Budget Challenge

Superintendent Cheryl Cotton shares information about tentative agreements and the district's fiscal path forward

Dear WCCUSD Community,

Thank you for your patience, feedback, thought partnership, and for staying engaged in this pivotal moment for our District. Over the past two nights, we held community listening sessions to share the next steps and timeline connected to the tentative agreements with our largest bargaining units, the United Teachers of Richmond and Teamsters Local 856.

What This Update Covers:

• • Key elements of tentative agreements with United Teachers of Richmond and Teamsters Local 856, including salary increases and health benefit improvements
• • Timeline for Board consideration at the January 21st meeting and payroll implementation
• • Explanation of enrollment and attendance decline impacts on state funding
• • Overview of the $127 million solvency challenge and immediate cost-reduction strategies
• • Preview of difficult staffing and program decisions required for the 2026-27 school year

First, I want to acknowledge what we all know to be true: these conversations are not easy. Our community deserves clear information, shared transparently, even when the realities are difficult.

As we move forward, your feedback matters. We are facing tough choices. And we will make them with students at the center, guided by equity, safety, and student learning.

In Community,
Cheryl Cotton, Superintendent
West Contra Costa Unified School District