VCUSD Declares Impasse with Classified Union, Calls for Mediation on Job Descriptions

VALLEJO, Calif. — The Vallejo City Unified School District (VCUSD) has formally declared an impasse in negotiations with the California School Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 199 as of Monday, April 6, 2026.

The District has met with CSEA multiple times since March 9, 2026, to negotiate the impacts and effects of classified layoffs. During these sessions, the District presented 15 updated job descriptions, representing more than 20 employment opportunities for the 2026–27 school year, as part of a broader departmental reorganization. Several of these proposals were first introduced in 2025 and remain pending, as the District has not yet received substantive counterproposals that would allow it to move forward with posting and hiring.

These efforts are intended to create pathways for qualified classified employees—particularly those who may be impacted by layoffs at the end of the school year—to transition into new roles within the District.

To date, CSEA has not submitted counterproposals or identified specific negotiable impacts and effects. Following the most recent session on March 24, CSEA indicated it would provide a date to continue negotiations; however, the District has not yet received a response.

While progress has been made in some areas, the parties have not yet reached an agreement on job descriptions. The District believes mediation will provide a structured opportunity to resolve these outstanding matters and reach a mutually beneficial agreement.

VCUSD remains hopeful that CSEA will join the District in mediation with a shared commitment to supporting employees and minimizing uncertainty for students, staff, and families.

“Declaring an impasse is a formal step in the bargaining process that allows both parties to seek support from a neutral mediator through the Public Employment Relations Board (PERB),” the District stated. “We are prepared to participate in mediation in good faith and remain focused on reaching a resolution.”

VCUSD continues to prioritize a fair and responsible agreement that recognizes the vital contributions of its classified employees while also ensuring the District’s long-term financial stability. Like many districts across California, VCUSD is navigating ongoing fiscal challenges, including declining enrollment and budget constraints.

“Our classified staff plays an essential role in supporting our students and schools every day,” said VCUSD Superintendent Rubén Aurelio. “At the same time, we must ensure that any agreement we reach is sustainable and supports our ability to serve students both now and in the future.”

The District will continue to keep the community informed as the process moves forward.