Sequoia Union teachers, staff get 3% raise

With each bargaining group, employees will receive a 3% raise, retroactive to July 1, 2025, and a one-time payment. The tentative agreement was made with the Sequoia District Teachers’ Association first on Nov. 5. 

“SDTA is very pleased to have come to a constructive agreement with the District and be able to deliver a salary increase to our members at this time as the cost of living continues to make it difficult for them to live in the area,” Edith Salvatore, the teacher’s union president, said in a statement. 

Beyond the salary settlement, the teacher’s union was able to address other areas of concern to “clarify procedures and the intent of the  language and make improvements to our members’ working condition,” Salvatore said. 

The same tentative agreement was made with the American Federation of State, Local, County and Municipal Employees Local 829 a week later. 

To provide parity for the unrepresented employees with the various union bargaining agreements, these employees will also receive the same raise and bonus. 

The contract agreements reflect a “shared commitment to fairness and collaboration,” Superintendent Crystal Leach said in a statement. 

“Throughout the process, we kept our focus on what matters most: supporting our students,” Leach said. “I’m so grateful for the expertise and heart our employees bring to their work every day, and we truly appreciate their dedication to the students we all serve together.” 

The costs for the 2025-26 school year salary schedules for all employees results in a total $6,296,943. This increase will be an adjustment in this year’s general fund budget.