LAUSD Unions Secure $1.2 Billion Annual Contract, Raising Financial Concerns
The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) has reached agreements with three major unions, resulting in significant salary increases for teachers, administrators, and support staff. The agreements, which avert a planned strike, will cost the district nearly $1.2 billion annually. The unions involved include United Teachers Los Angeles, Service Employees International Union Local 99, and Associated Administrators of Los Angeles. The deals promise double-digit raises, with teachers receiving a 13.9% increase over three years, and support staff seeing a 24% raise. The agreements also include commitments to hire additional counselors and extend work hours for some staff to qualify for health benefits. Despite the celebratory tone of the agreements, questions remain about the district's ability to fund these commitments, given its current financial challenges. 
