FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 18th, 2025
December 4, 2025
IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT:
We know the employee strike in our District is very unsettling for our students and families. We have been working hard to ensure our students who come to school are safe. Unfortunately, we are already hearing that some individuals are blocking entrances to our schools this morning, including blocking some of our special education students. We have asked that people not block students and families who are trying to come to school. They are making a difficult choice that we should all respect, even though we might disagree with it. I would also like to remind our families that independent study is available. For independent study information, please visit our website at www.wccusd.net.
We also have heard statements from UTR leadership that we have not responded to them, which is inaccurate. Our negotiations team met with UTR’s bargaining team on Monday afternoon and also communicated yesterday, making a proposal based on the Factfinding report’s recommendation. And early this morning, we reached out to UTR. We are serious about getting this matter resolved. We acknowledge that our employees deserve salary and benefits increases and we want a resolution, but this cannot happen while we are on strike and not at the negotiations table.
Cheryl Cotton, Superintendent
West Contra Costa Unified School District
The media is welcome to use this information as they see fit. The District Negotiations Webpage is also available for more information.
About WCCUSD:
West Contra Costa Unified School District serves more than 24,000 students across 54 schools in the cities of El Cerrito, Hercules, Pinole, Richmond, San Pablo, and unincorporated areas of Kensington, El Sobrante, Tara Hills, and Montalvin. WCCUSD is committed to excellent instruction, safe and welcoming schools, and equitable opportunities for every student. Learn more at www.wccusd.net.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Raechelle Forrest 510.231.1196 office/510.778.6420 mobile