FUSD Trustees vote to approve raises for themselves while calling for the layoffs of frontline classified district workers amid budget deficit. District workers will call on the FUSD Leadership to uphold transparency in its operational plans to prioritize the health and safety, as well as stability, of all Fresno students.
FRESNO, CA – Frontline classified workers represented by SEIU Local 521, who deliver essential services for students in Fresno Unified schools, will be joined by local leaders, parents, and more community supporters in calling on FUSD to fix what’s broken and invest in what works.
Workers say Fresno Unified School District is not prioritizing workplace health and safety in its operational plans and it is impacting student stability and outcomes. Students arrive at ready-to-learn environments in schools throughout Fresno because dedicated classified workers keep grounds and facilities clean, restrooms and classrooms well-stocked, buses fueled and running, as well as cafeterias serving fresh and nutritious meals daily. Classified workers keep FUSD schools running, all while their jobs are the first targeted amid budget concerns.
“For far too long, FUSD has short-changed the health and safety of all students through operational reductions that are felt first at schools in low-income neighborhoods and schools serving distinct and high need vulnerable groups, including English learners and students with disabilities. All of this while FUSD Trustees vote to approve 113% raises for themselves.,” said James Krebs, FUSD Bus Driver and SEIU Local 521 Steward.
In an urgent call to change that, local community leaders will join classified workers for a press conference across the street from FUSD Operations. Firsthand testimony about operational impact on students, workers and families will be shared. Supporters will also stand in solidarity with classified workers, and speak in support.
WHO: Classified workers and union members, joined by community leaders and other supporters
WHAT: Press conference calling on FUSD to invest in stability for better student outcomes.
WHEN: Wednesday, January 28 – Press conference starting at 11 a.m.
WHERE: Across the street from FUSD Operations, 4600 North Brawley Ave.
Fresno, CA 93722 (sidewalk in front of empty field)
WHY: Workers are calling for transparency and investment to improve the working conditions of essential, frontline classified workers and improve outcomes for all Fresno Unified students.
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Service Employees International Union, Local 521 represents 72,000 public- and nonprofit, private-sector workers in California’s Bay Area, the Central Coast, and in the Central Valley. Under a Community First vision, we are committed to making sure the needs of our community, and the vital services we provide our community, come first. We believe our communities thrive when residents, leaders and workers recognize that we are all in this together when it comes to our safety, health, and well-being.
