Caldwell negotiators approve fractional-leave pilot for 2026–27 with data review plan

Negotiators for the CALDWELL DISTRICT and the certificated employees’ representatives accepted a memorandum of understanding to pilot fractional leave during the 2026–27 school year and to collect data to judge its impact.

Julie (speaker identified in the record as Julie) outlined the timeline: "Fractional leave will be implemented throughout the 2026–27 school year. Data will be gathered to analyze its effectiveness and ease of implementation. Revisions may be made by mutual agreement of the parties throughout the year in response to data and feedback." The group agreed that buildings and administrators will collect usage data and that the parties will periodically review whether the pilot is benefiting students and staff.

Negotiators characterized the MOU as provisional: the policy will be tested in practice, data will be used to support or refute its utility, and recommendations for adjustment would be addressed either during negotiations or by mutual agreement outside formal bargaining sessions. The MOU was moved, seconded and accepted during the meeting; participants indicated approval by thumbs-up.

What negotiators asked to follow up: clearer definitions and data collection templates, documentation of who will gather and retain the data, and whether any changes to forms or processes are needed. The transcript shows negotiators directing HR/district staff to preserve the negotiation folder and to provide cross-training for incoming staff to keep institutional knowledge intact.

Next steps: collect data in the 2026–27 school year, convene a periodic review, and present findings during the next round of negotiations or earlier if the parties agree to changes.