SEIU Local 1021 members working for Hayward Unified School District (HUSD) voted this week to approve a new two-year contract. After 15 months of bargaining, SEIU 1021 members ratified the strongest contract they’ve had in years, with a 95% ‘yes’ vote for paraeducators/YEP and 99% for maintenance and operations and SAFECO.

Members covered by the new contract include facility and maintenance workers, campus safety officers, nutrition service workers, early childhood development workers, paraprofessionals, after school program workers, and custodians. 

“Our union fought very hard to jumpstart a better future for all our members. We have fought one of our biggest and most historical battles and have made great gains,” said Khadijah Abdulhaqq, para/YEP chapter president and HUSD paraprofessional.

Highlights in the new contract include salary increases in line with teachers retroactive to school years 2022-2023, increased annual health contributions from the district, and the addition of a summer assistance program for 10-month employees.

This new contract will also give critical relief to employees across the district due to stronger worker protections across classifications.