Fremont district looks to avoid teacher strike

FREMONT, Calif. - Closed-door negotiations between the Fremont school district and its teachers’ union are underway this week, as a potential strike looms ahead. 

An after-school picket and rally was held Monday night as the district and union try to come to an agreement. 

The most recent offer from the district was a 5% increase in pay, including a 1.5% ongoing raise and a one-time 3.5% raise, which was rejected by the union. 

The union negotiators and the district met behind closed doors for 17 hours, lasting until the early morning hours on Tuesday. The groups did not reach an agreement. 

"Our members have made it clear that they are willing to strike for the schools their students deserve," President Vicky Chon told KTVU on Tuesday morning. "We are disappointed that we couldn’t come to an agreement–but we stand united and firm on our commitment to do whatever it takes for our students."

The union is asking for higher pay, cash towards benefits for its members, as well as smaller class sizes across the board.

One teacher said class sizes can determine how much time teachers can dedicate to each of their students.

"The largest class size that I have ever had was 39 per class period," Jackie Omstead said. "Highest class cap I have ever carried in a year was 184 students in five periods. That doesn't allow me to give very much one-at-one time to any individual student."

Currently, teachers in Fremont Unified earn a minimum of about $83,000 each year before taxes. Teachers with a combined 29 years of experience can earn a maximum of $144,000 per year.

These contract negotiations have been ongoing for more  than a year, but the district told KTVU it is "hopeful" an agreement will be reached soon.