Fresno Workers Rally for Fairness After School Board’s 113% Pay Surge

Board Votes to More Than Double Stipends (Image Credits: Cdn.abcotvs.com)

Fresno – Classified staff at Fresno Unified School District rallied outside offices on Wednesday, urging leaders to prioritize transparency and equity amid a board-approved stipend increase for trustees.[1][2]

Board Votes to More Than Double Stipends

Trustees approved a resolution that raised their monthly compensation from $2,111 to $4,500, effective February 1. The 6-1 vote aligned with Assembly Bill 1390, a state law updating limits unchanged for over 40 years.[3] Five members accepted the change, while Andy Levine dissented and opted out alongside Elizabeth Jonasson-Rosas.

The adjustment qualifies for large districts like Fresno Unified, which serves over 60,000 students daily. Annual costs total around $143,500 from the $1.9 billion budget. Trustee Susan Wittrup described it as an alignment with education code rather than a personal raise.[3]

Employees Chant for Better Conditions

Dozens of bus drivers, custodians, and groundskeepers assembled on North Brawley Avenue, chanting “Sí se puede” during a news conference. They highlighted long hours and financial strain while facing stalled contract talks.[1]

Bus driver Corina Lozoya called the timing a “huge slap in the face,” noting she works 12 to 16 hours daily to support her family. Grounds worker Andrew Martinez stressed that frontline roles keep schools operational and are not disposable.[1][2]

SEIU Local 521 Chief Elected Officer Riko Mendez demanded respect in pay and benefits, arguing thriving support staff improves student environments.

Budget Pressures Fuel Tensions

The district confronts a structural deficit from declining enrollment and post-COVID attendance drops, prompting $50 million in projected cuts over two years. State funding ties directly to attendance, exacerbating shortfalls alongside high staffing costs.[1]

Leaders approved early retirements for 573 employees last month to save over $56 million in five years. Negotiations with SEIU 521 continue confidentially, with the prior contract expired June 30, 2025.[2]

• Declining enrollment reduces state funds.
• Elevated staffing and programs strain resources.
• Potential layoffs loom for classified roles.
• Board reviews options for sustainable education.

Unions Highlight Timing Concerns

Fresno Teachers Association President Manuel Bonilla labeled the move tone-deaf amid public discussions of cuts impacting students and staff. He noted the 113% jump shocks given negotiation contexts.[3]

District officials affirmed commitment to fair pay, transparency, and safety while evaluating staffing. They emphasized strategic realignments to maintain quality education.

As Fresno Unified navigates fiscal challenges, employee voices grow louder for balanced priorities that support both operations and classrooms. What steps should districts take to rebuild trust? Share your thoughts in the comments.