West Contra Costa Teachers Rejoice as Strike Ends: Key Deal Highlights

A New Chapter for Education: West Contra Costa Teachers End Strike

In a momentous victory for educators and a significant stride towards better public education, the West Contra Costa County teacher strike has come to an end. After a lengthy and intense 12-hour negotiation session culminating in the early hours of Wednesday, December 10, 2025, the United Teachers of Richmond (UTR) and the West Contra Costa Unified School District (WCCUSD) reached a tentative agreement following a four-day strike that garnered significant support from the community.

What Sparked the Strike?

The strike, the district's first in history, was a response to ongoing negotiations that started 10 months prior, where teachers pushed for a substantial 10% pay increase across two years, better benefits, and improved staffing conditions. Over 98% of union members, encompassing approximately 1,500 teachers across 56 schools, voted in favor of the strike, showcasing their determination to advocate for fair wages and classroom resources.

Key Outcomes of the Tentative Agreement

Though the final agreement calls for an 8% salary increase over two years, it also includes notable enhancements such as:

• Additional wage increases for special education teachers and hiring bonuses to fill critical vacancies.
• Comprehensive family health care benefits fully paid by the employer by June 30, 2027.
• Protections for international teachers, including pathways to permanent residency for those who attain clear credentials.
• A commitment to capping class sizes at 25 for the International Academy, an essential step towards improving student-to-teacher ratios.

Union president Francisco Ortiz emphasized that this fight was more than just contract negotiations; it was a stand against the systemic challenges threatening the quality of public education. “This fight was not just about our contract; it was a battle for the future of public education,” says Ortiz. “We refuse to let our students suffer in under-resourced classrooms.”

The Power of Community Support

The solidarity displayed by not only teachers but also community members played a pivotal role in the strike's outcome. Daily rallies attracted hundreds, and support flooded in through thousands of emails directed to district officials from concerned parents and community members. This outpouring strengthened the resolve of educators on the picket lines, amplifying their voices in demands for necessary reforms.

Teachers like Raechelle Forrest, spokesperson for WCCUSD, expressed relief at the resolution and the importance of restoring normalcy to classrooms. “We are grateful that the strike is over and our students and teachers will be reunited,” said Forrest, highlighting the collaborative spirit in addressing the needs of the district’s educators.

Looking Ahead: What Comes Next?

The ratification process is set to begin soon; both the union and the school board must approve the agreement before it becomes official. While many educators are relieved, others remain cautious about the specifics of the agreement. Mitzi Pérez-Caro, a computer science and journalism teacher at Kennedy High, articulated the ongoing challenges, referencing the need for continued advocacy for better conditions and pay reflective of the rising cost of living in the Bay Area.

Pérez-Caro and others echo that the struggle for educational equity is far from over. “While we are happy with this agreement, we need to keep pushing for the smaller class sizes and higher acceptable salary increases that reflect the realities of inflation and living conditions,” she remarked, stressing the necessity of attracting and retaining quality teachers.

Community Connection: Bridging the Gap

As the district transitions back to regular operations, the implication of this agreement extends far beyond financial adjustments; it reshapes the community's approach to education. The collective efforts of educators, parents, and community representatives were essential in demonstrating unity and resolve. Amy Poynter, a third-grade teacher at Madera Elementary, beautifully encapsulated this sentiment: “This victory shows the power of our collective! Our union fought long and hard.”

This community bond, further woven through the shared experiences of educators and advocates, provides a vital foundation for continuing efforts towards educational justice and resourcing for schools in the West Contra Costa area.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

As this tentative agreement takes shape, it’s vital for community members to remain engaged in the ongoing evolution of educational policies and resources. Join local advocacy groups, attend school board meetings, and stay informed about developments that impact our schools. Together, we can ensure that the future of public education in the Bay Area reflects the values and needs of all its students and educators.