Classified employees tell board that wages and benefit choices threaten retention

Several classified employees and union representatives addressed the Simi Valley Unified School District board during public comment to press for higher wages and affordable health care as contract talks continue.

Diane Wilkinson, labor representative for CSEA, told trustees she was encouraged by transparency in recent layoff communications but said "any responsible balanced budget that may require cuts and or reductions in spending should not be borne on the backs of those that make the least." She urged the board to pursue equitable approaches in forthcoming budget decisions.

CSEA first vice president Nikki LaCrosse described the differences in pay across employee categories and offered figures to illustrate the gap: "The average yearly income of all classified is $22,000 a year in Simi Valley. The average for full time classified people is $33,000 a year. Teachers average $90,000." LaCrosse warned that rising health premiums and the need to choose between raises and benefits could force experienced classified staff to leave.

Individual classified employees amplified the concerns during public comment. Laura S., who said she takes home $29,700 annually, said planned hour reductions and higher health costs could shrink her net to about $21,600 and force her to seek work outside the district.

Board members acknowledged the speakers and said they would carry the comments into labor negotiations and budget planning. The superintendent and trustees thanked staff and community members for participating in the dialogue.

Next steps: CSEA and district negotiators will continue work toward a full collective-bargaining agreement and the board will consider budget impacts as it develops the proposed 2024-25 budget.