Evergreen, Washington, August 23, 2025
News Summary
Evergreen Public Schools has announced a delay in the start of the school year, moving the first day of classes to September 2. This decision is a response to ongoing contract negotiations with the union representing support staff, who have voted overwhelmingly in favor of a potential strike. The delay aims to provide more time for discussions about fair wages and better working conditions as the union advocates for improvements following six months without a contract.
Evergreen, Washington – Evergreen Public Schools has officially announced a delay in the start of the 2025-26 school year, moving the first day of classes from August 26 to September 2, 2025. This decision comes in light of ongoing contract negotiations with the Evergreen Chapter of Public School Employees of Washington SEIU Local 1948, which represents crucial support staff including paraeducators, bus drivers, security officers, and maintenance workers.
The union indicated that the change in the school year start date is directly linked to the potential strike they are planning to commence on the initial scheduled day of school. According to the union’s vote, over 90% of members supported the strike, emphasizing the urgent need for better wage negotiations following a six-month period without a contract. The union has made clear that their intent is to rally and march until they secure a fair contract that includes higher wages, striving to match the current cost of living.
Dr. Christine Moloney, the Superintendent of Evergreen Public Schools, explained that the delay aims to provide adequate time for negotiations with the union as the current contract expires on August 30. The district hopes this will reduce uncertainty for students, families, and staff during this critical time.
The Evergreen Education Association, which represents teachers within the district, is supporting the union’s actions and will honor the picket line established by the support staff. Union member Derek Sytsma highlighted the significant wage disparities, noting that he earns less than many employees in retail positions, despite fulfilling a vital role in the educational framework.
The negotiations are taking place amidst reported financial challenges faced by the district, which affect their capability to meet the wage demands of union employees. While the district has presented a final offer that includes options for two- or three-year contracts with salary increases, union members continue to advocate for assurances of fair pay and working conditions before an agreement can be finalized.
Background of the Situation
The Evergreen Chapter of Public School Employees of Washington SEIU Local 1948 plays a crucial role in maintaining the educational environment by providing various support services essential for daily operations. The impending strike represents a significant step for union members who feel their pay has not kept pace with rising living costs and acknowledges a greater need for competitive salaries and working conditions that reflect the importance of their jobs.
The collective action taken by the union signifies a growing trend among education support staff nationwide, as many seek to advocate for their rights and secure fair compensation. This situation in Evergreen adds to the broader conversation about education funding, labor relations, and the fair treatment of workers within the school system.
FAQ
Why was the 2025-26 school year start date delayed?
The start date was delayed due to ongoing negotiations with the support staff union, which has voted to strike starting on the original first day of school, August 26.
What is the union advocating for?
The union is advocating for higher wages to match the cost of living and adequate working conditions as they have been without a contract for six months.
How many union members supported the strike?
Over 90% of union members voted in favor of the strike.
What impact does this have on students and families?
The delay aims to reduce uncertainty for students and families during the negotiation period and allow for better planning.
What financial challenges is the district facing?
The district is facing significant budget challenges, which are impacting their financial decision-making and ability to meet union demands.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Delay of School Year Start | School start date moved to September 2, 2025 |
| Union Representation | Support staff represented by SEIU Local 1948 |
| Strike Vote | More than 90% of union members voted to strike |
| Salary Demands | Union seeks higher wages due to living cost increases |
| Superintendent’s Statement | Delay provides more negotiation time |
| Solidarity Action | Teacher association supports the union picket line |
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Additional Resources
- KOIN: Evergreen Schools Prepping for Union’s First-Ever Strike
- OregonLive: Signs a Teacher Strike Could Land in No School November
- KPTV: Evergreen Public Schools Union Workers Schedule Strike Vote
- Google Search: Evergreen Public Schools
- Axios: PPS Teachers Strike, Public School Students Affected
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Labor Strike
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