Collective Bargaining has a long history in the state of Washington. It is a process ending with a contract, which allows all employees to be treated equally. Management knows the rules as do the employees. When sufficient progress is not being made at the bargaining table, sometimes the process breaks down, resulting in a strike. If the District has nothing new to offer or discuss the bargaining sessions are canceled. The teachers of the Snohomish School District, voted to strike after serious discussion and consideration. Leaving their students for even a day was not an easy decision to make.

The Strike - An Overview

Several years ago, when the District was in serious financial difficulties, teachers were asked for concessions totaling almost one million dollars. SEA waited patiently as the District clawed itself out of its financial hole.
Teachers, parents and community members worked hard to pass the recent four-year levy. The District is financially whole. The Association has analyzed the District budget carefully and money is available. SEA is not asking for more than the District can afford on a long-term basis.

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The Issues

TRI: Teachers are paid for their basic 182-day contract year by the Legislature. Districts can agree to pay teachers for the many additional hours and days they work over that amount. Attracting and retaining quality teachers in the Snohomish School District means TRI money must be available and comparable to other districts at a minimum. For more information on the financial details click here.

Insurance: The state funds only a portion of a teacher's medical benefits. The cost of premiums continues to skyrocket. Competitive districts must pay their share of these costs, the teacher cannot cover them all.

There are also issues on the table that will improve class size, bring assistance to special needs classrooms and generally make the educational experience for the children of Snohomish a quality experience.

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