Teamsters Local 856's Historic Contract at West Contra Costa School District Concludes Strike
On December 8, 2025, a monumental vote reflected the unity and determination of the Teamsters Local 856 members working for the West Contra Costa Unified School District (WCCUSD). With an impressive 98 percent approval rate, the union members ratified a new contract that not only guarantees substantial wage increases but also ensures comprehensive health coverage fully paid by the employer for all 1,400 workers. This landmark agreement brings an end to a two-day strike, laying the groundwork for improved work conditions and job security across the district.
The three-year contract, described as historic and transformative by union leaders, addresses multiple key issues, including provisions that limit outsourcing, which could threaten local jobs. Peter Finn, the Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 856, highlighted the workers’ efforts in achieving these milestones, stating, "Teamsters at West Contra Costa Unified School District worked hard to secure an agreement that delivers real gains and honors their labor."
The contract assures the delivery of 100 percent employer-funded Teamsters health care, a demand that has been a primary goal for the union members, especially poignant for workers providing essential services in schools ranging from administrative tasks to food services. Gary Abeyta, a utility worker and union steward, reflected on the achievements, saying, "When we organized with the Teamsters, one of our primary goals was to get fully covered medical. This historic contract delivers that result and I couldn't be prouder to be a Teamster."
With the agreement in place, the dedicated workforce can now focus on their critical roles in supporting educational environments across more than 50 campuses. The new terms provide a much-needed balance to the pressures that workers often face regarding wages and healthcare benefits.
This success narrative paints a broader picture of labor dynamics within the public education sector, where unions like Teamsters Local 856 are elevating the standards of working conditions for essential personnel. As a growing union with over 20,000 members throughout Northern California, they stand as a beacon of hope for labor solidarity and advancement.
The recent strike and subsequent agreement signal a new chapter for WCCUSD, encouraging other districts to reconsider their own labor practices. In an era where educational institutions face profound challenges, the union's resolve provides a template for collective bargaining, empowering workers to advocate for their rights effectively.
In conclusion, the culmination of months of negotiations and actions demonstrates the significant impact of union representation. The Teamsters' victory at the West Contra Costa Unified School District serves not only to protect the workers' rights but also to remind stakeholders of the essential nature of fair labor practices in supporting the educational frameworks that serve communities. As the members return to their duties, they do so with stronger assurances that their well-being is affirmed and prioritized, thanks to their collective efforts and solidarity.
The three-year contract, described as historic and transformative by union leaders, addresses multiple key issues, including provisions that limit outsourcing, which could threaten local jobs. Peter Finn, the Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 856, highlighted the workers’ efforts in achieving these milestones, stating, "Teamsters at West Contra Costa Unified School District worked hard to secure an agreement that delivers real gains and honors their labor."
The contract assures the delivery of 100 percent employer-funded Teamsters health care, a demand that has been a primary goal for the union members, especially poignant for workers providing essential services in schools ranging from administrative tasks to food services. Gary Abeyta, a utility worker and union steward, reflected on the achievements, saying, "When we organized with the Teamsters, one of our primary goals was to get fully covered medical. This historic contract delivers that result and I couldn't be prouder to be a Teamster."
With the agreement in place, the dedicated workforce can now focus on their critical roles in supporting educational environments across more than 50 campuses. The new terms provide a much-needed balance to the pressures that workers often face regarding wages and healthcare benefits.
This success narrative paints a broader picture of labor dynamics within the public education sector, where unions like Teamsters Local 856 are elevating the standards of working conditions for essential personnel. As a growing union with over 20,000 members throughout Northern California, they stand as a beacon of hope for labor solidarity and advancement.
The recent strike and subsequent agreement signal a new chapter for WCCUSD, encouraging other districts to reconsider their own labor practices. In an era where educational institutions face profound challenges, the union's resolve provides a template for collective bargaining, empowering workers to advocate for their rights effectively.
In conclusion, the culmination of months of negotiations and actions demonstrates the significant impact of union representation. The Teamsters' victory at the West Contra Costa Unified School District serves not only to protect the workers' rights but also to remind stakeholders of the essential nature of fair labor practices in supporting the educational frameworks that serve communities. As the members return to their duties, they do so with stronger assurances that their well-being is affirmed and prioritized, thanks to their collective efforts and solidarity.
Topics People & Culture）
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