Please end this madness Still no contract for ESD office personnel after 8 months of bargaining

The Edmonds School District office personnel have been without a contract for over eight months as negotiations have stalled. The district rejected 39 out of 61 initial proposals from the union, which included requests for wage increases and additional time off. Despite a budget of over $426 million for the 2024-2025 school year, the district claims financial constraints prevent it from meeting union demands. Union leaders emphasize that office staff play a vital role in school operations, often working long hours to manage various responsibilities. Staff members reported working significant overtime, reflecting the stress and turnover in their positions.

The union's request for inflation-adjusted pay increases was also denied. Furthermore, office staff receive only two personal days per year, half of what teachers receive. The district asserts it continues to bargain in good faith, but the lack of progress raises concerns among union members about their working conditions.