On Thursday, October 15, the Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District (LVJUSD) board meeting became a stage for nearly 30 passionate members of SEIU Local 1021. United in purple and purpose, these dedicated LVJUSD classified workers gathered to voice their frustrations over the district’s prolonged stalling in negotiations. Their presence was a powerful reminder of the urgent need for equitable treatment and respect in the workplace.

At the heart of their concerns lies a recently ratified collective bargaining agreement, which stipulates a re-opener focused on wages, health benefits, and two critical non-monetary items. SEIU 1021 members have been striving for meaningful changes, advocating for wage increases, enhanced contributions to health benefits, safer working conditions, and greater transparency in transfer and promotion processes.

However, after three bargaining sessions, the district’s failure to engage in good-faith negotiations has left workers feeling dismissed and undervalued.

“We are deeply frustrated by the lack of essential investment in our schools. It is clear that the district’s priorities do not align with the welfare of students and workers,” said Kirsty Governor, LVJUSD chapter president. ”Management’s anti-union tactics, including docking pay for union meeting attendance, are unacceptable. Crucial equipment for providing healthy meals—like ovens and refrigerators—constantly breaks down, while workers struggle just to afford healthcare. Yet, the district somehow finds funds in the budget for raises at the top. We have upheld our responsibilities. Now it’s time for the district to come to the table, engage with us in good faith, and stop stalling.”

This sentiment during the meeting was palpable. A few members spoke during the public comment section to articulate their anger and disappointment over the district’s reluctance to negotiate. Among the issues highlighted was the stark reality faced by child nutrition workers, many of whom earn only slightly above the minimum wage established for fast-food workers in California. This is particularly troubling given the rising costs of living and healthcare that have remained unaddressed for the past decade. While these essential workers struggle to make ends meet, management has received significant raises, often far exceeding the annual income of many of their employees.

The presence of SEIU members at the meeting sent a clear message to the board that the status quo is not acceptable. Their collective voice, a blend of determination and frustration, highlighted the disconnect between management and those who serve the district’s students daily.

As the board members witnessed the strength of their unified front, it became evident that this is more than just a call for better wages—it’s a demand for recognition and respect for the hard work and dedication these employees bring to their roles.

The time has long since passed for the Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District to recognize the vital contributions of its staff and engage in genuine negotiations that reflect the values of fairness and equity.

In standing together, SEIU 1021 members are not just advocating for their own rights; they are championing the broader principle of dignity in the workplace. It’s a message that resonates beyond the walls of the district office, echoing through the hearts of workers everywhere who seek justice and fair treatment in their labor. The board must listen and act accordingly—the future of our schools depends on the well-being of those who nurture and educate our children.