On Thursday, May 7, over 130 classified SEIU 1021 members at the Vacaville Unified School District (VUSD), from paraprofessionals, maintenance workers, custodians, transportation workers, clerks, nutrition workers, to IT, attended the VUSD school board meeting that evening to once more raise concerns about staffing shortages, workplace safety, and contract negotiations they say are affecting both employees and students.

Union members say schools across the district are struggling with inadequate staffing, making it harder to provide consistent support for students and maintain safe learning environments. They also emphasized a sharp increase in workplace violence incidents as evidence that backs up their growing concerns: 67 reports were filed last school year, compared with 167 already recorded this year. Despite these alarming numbers, the district is not meeting the bargaining team’s demands to address them.

“Our members show up every day for our students because they deserve safe schools, stability, and people who can fully support their success. Many dedicated employees are now being pushed to consider leaving the district simply to survive financially and care for their families. When staff are forced to choose between serving the students they love and meeting their own basic needs, the district risks losing experienced, compassionate people who are essential to student success,” said Tatiana Maynard, healthcare specialist and bargaining team member.

“We are asking VUSD to invest in the people who care for, support, and teach students every single day. Because strong schools begin with supported staff.”

SEIU 1021 members have been calling on the district to approve contract language to protect bargaining-unit jobs and prevent further staffing instability and potential harm to students and staff, but their concerns remain unaddressed. 

Workers are also seeking a fair wage agreement for both years of the contract, citing the ongoing need to retain experienced staff and reduce turnover, particularly when neighboring districts pay more and pull much-needed staff away from VUSD.

Stable staffing and stronger workplace protections are essential to creating safe, supportive schools for students and workers. Members are aware of this; now the district needs to get on board.