**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

Contact: Chelsea Fink, chelsea.fink@seiu1021.org, (510) 435-8282

VACAVILLE, CA -  On Thursday, May 28, Vacaville Unified School District classified staff, including custodians, bus drivers, paraprofessionals, nutrition workers, maintenance staff, clerical workers, and student supervision workers, overwhelmingly ratified a new two-year contract with a near-unanimous yes vote.

The new two-year agreement delivers major wins, including a 4.87% wage increase and an additional 3% increase in 2027. The contract also strengthens job protections by requiring notice and review of vacancies to help prevent the loss of positions when employees leave the District, while also increasing uniform allowances and mileage reimbursements for employees working split shifts and specialized roles. Retirees receiving medical coverage will now also receive 100% dental and vision coverage.

“Today, we celebrate more than a bargaining victory; we celebrate the power of unity and the belief that our staff, students, and community deserve better,” said Barbra Hamilton, VUSD chapter president. “When we fight together, we create safer schools, stronger support for students, and a brighter future for our entire community.”

After four months of negotiations and strong community support, including a rally with over 200 attendees and continued advocacy at school board meetings, this new agreement invests in the workers who keep Vacaville schools running smoothly for students and families. 

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SEIU Local 1021 represents nearly 60,000 employees in local governments, nonprofit agencies, health care programs, courts, and schools throughout Northern California, including seven private colleges and numerous community colleges. SEIU Local 1021 is a diverse, member-driven organization with members who work to make our cities, schools, colleges, counties, and special districts safe and healthy places to live and raise our families.