ATA Weekly

Questions We’ve Heard About the Tentative Agreement

Thank you to everyone who shared questions about the tentative agreement (TA) and the upcoming vote. Your active participation and feedback have made a meaningful difference at every stage of the bargaining process.

The Bargaining Team developed this TA around the priorities raised most often by members, aiming to make meaningful progress while recognizing the District’s financial realities. Below are answers to several of the most common questions we have received.

Why did we agree to a 0.75% salary increase?

Our initial 2.4% proposal matched the current cost-of-living adjustment and served as a strong opening position. As negotiations progressed, however, the District’s ongoing deficit, estimated at $10 million, and continued declining enrollment made clear that a smaller ongoing increase was the only financially viable option this year.

While other options were discussed, including a 1% off-schedule payment or a 1% increase effective May 2026, the Bargaining Team concluded that a 0.75% on-schedule increase, effective June 2026, paired with longevity compression would provide the stronger long-term benefit by improving the salary schedule and helping eligible members reach higher earnings sooner.

Why take any increase at all, given the District’s financial condition?

Many members have asked this important question, reflecting genuine concern for colleagues and the District’s overall stability. If we knew for certain that foregoing a pay increase would save positions, that would be a different conversation. Unfortunately, there is no such guarantee. The District’s wider fiscal challenges, including a significant structural deficit and reserves of roughly 4.5 percent, are driving current cost-cutting measures.

Within that reality, the Bargaining Team focused on securing the most balanced and responsible package possible. The agreement acknowledges financial constraints while still providing meaningful progress for members.

What is a longevity compression, and why now?

ATA salaries have consistently trailed those of neighboring districts over the course of a career. By accelerating each longevity step by one year, members can reach higher salary levels sooner, boosting their lifetime earnings and making earlier retirement a realistic option for more individuals. This adjustment delivers a lasting benefit during active employment and retirement. Additionally, increased retirements create opportunities to retain more temporary employees.

What about health benefits?

ATA preserved the current health benefits plan designs. As part of a previously negotiated phase-in, our Blue Shield plan will see minor changes. Next year, prescription costs for brand-name and specialty drugs will rise from $18 to $25, while generic prescriptions will remain at $10. In addition, inpatient hospitalization costs will increase slightly, though the exact amount is not yet available. These adjustments help manage rising healthcare expenses while maintaining our comprehensive coverage.

Were there any non-economic gains?

Yes. Members with 20 or more years of service will now receive written evaluations only once every five years. This change recognizes the professional experience of our veteran educators.

Looking Ahead

Following a thorough review, the ATA Bargaining Team and Board of Directors recommend voting yes on this TA. Although no agreement is flawless, we believe this package represents real progress on members’ top priorities while taking into account the District’s fiscal constraints. Voting opens Monday, April 13, and closes Friday, April 17. We urge every eligible member to carefully review the agreement and make their voice heard. Your participation ensures our collective voice guides the path forward.

Ralph Hernandez

alhambrateacherspresident@gmail.com

Below are the names of those running for the different Board of Directors positions in ATA. Voting will occur online from April 20th to April 24th. You will receive an email from SimplyVoting, our secure, hosted online elections provider. Please make sure we have your correct personal email. It's not too late for non-paying dues members to vote. Email us ASAP so we can sign you up for membership.

The results will be announced via this newsletter on April 24th. If a run-off election is necessary, it will be included in the announcement, along with a run-off election timeline.

2026 General Election Bulletin

ATA knows the District’s March 27 memo on classroom suspensions and exclusionary practices has caused confusion for many unit members.

We want to be clear. The guidance ATA previously shared with members was based on Ed Code, and ATA stands behind that guidance.

We also recognize that this issue is being viewed from different perspectives. While the District may be approaching this issue through the lens of student support and the limitation of exclusionary practices, teachers are also entitled to clear guidance that respects their rights under Ed Code. In most cases, classroom suspension should be treated as a last resort rather than a first response, though immediate action may be warranted in situations involving safety, serious disruption, and other significant circumstances.

ATA has communicated with the District regarding the questions this memo has raised and is working to clarify these issues. We hope additional guidance will be shared soon to clear up the confusion.

At this time, members should know that ATA stands by the legal guidance previously provided and will continue to advocate for clear direction so members are not left with mixed messages about their rights and responsibilities.

If you receive site direction that appears inconsistent with ATA’s guidance, please let ATA know right away so we may support you.

In this week's newsletter:

· Monthly Health Tip: Stress Management

· Celebrate You: Cultivating Compassion (Webinar)

· Doula Coverage (KP Members)

· ‘How Low can you Go?’ The shifting Guidelines for Blood Pressure (article)

· Life Hack: Nourish Your Body for Energy and Vitality

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April 21

- ATA Rep Council (4:00 pm, ATA Office)

April 28

- Board of Education (6 pm, Marengo West)

May 11

- Grievance (4:00 pm, ATA Office)

May 12

- Joint BOD/Rep Council

May 19

- Board of Education (6 pm, Marengo West)

The Alhambra Teachers Association (ATA) exists to protect and promote the well-being of its members; to improve the conditions of teaching and learning; to advance the cause of free, universal, and quality public education; to ensure that the human dignity and civil rights of all children and youth are protected; and to secure a more just equitable and democratic society.

Email: ataoffice3030@gmail.com
Website: www.alhambrateachers.org
Location: 3030 West Main Street, Alhambra, CA, USA
Phone: (626)289-1933
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlhambraTeachersAssociation/