Candidate Statements for Cupertino USD Chapter Officers Election
Omar Batres, Locksmith, current Chapter President
As a dedicated Union Leader and President for the past four-plus years, I am proud to reflect on the transformative progress our union has achieved collectively. Under my leadership, we have grown our membership to over 200 strong, united workers—a testament to our shared commitment to solidarity, advocacy, and empowerment.
One of my core missions has been to unify our union and align with our broader vision: to bring together all unions under a common purpose. Today, I am proud to say we have achieved this goal. Through relentless collaboration, we’ve forged a strong, unified relationship with leaders of other unions, including regular and effective communication with presidents of our sister unions. This partnership has enabled us to address challenges collectively, amplify our voices, and advocate for fair treatment with unprecedented strength.
**Key Accomplishments During My Tenure Include:**
– **Fighting for Fair Compensation & Career Growth:**
– **Plumber Classification & Back Pay:**
Successfully modernized the outdated plumber classification system, ensuring fair recognition and compensation for skilled labor, and secured **back pay** for plumbers who performed out-of-class work.
– **Addressing Trade Personnel Inequities:**
Alongside plumbers and trade personnel, we identified systemic discrepancies in compensation and career progression. By working cohesively with the district, we rectified these issues—ensuring current workers receive fair pay and future staff have clear pathways to advance beyond their current classifications. This victory not only improves lives today but inspires tomorrow’s workforce to strive for growth.
– **Winning Healthcare Benefits**
Partnering with fellow union leaders to secure **free healthcare coverage for all employees** and drastically reduce costs for family dependents—a landmark victory.
George Cimino, Automotive Mechanic Leadsperson
Running for Chapter President, No statement provided
Maria Fernandez, Bus Driver, current Vice President
Hello SEIU 521 Cupertino Chapter!!!
My name is Maria Fernandez and I’m your current Vice President. I’ve work in the Transportation Department as a School Bus Driver for the past 11 years.
I started off as Steward 9 years ago and I’ve worked my way up to Vice President. I have fought many battles for transportation and now as your Vice president have fought many battles for several departments. I’ve gotten to know several custodians, Student nutrition, maintenance, grounds and CEA/CSEA Union Reps. This last year and a half I’m glad to say I’ve accomplished so much for our little chapter. I’ve had no problem pushing back on the district regarding free health care for all employees and have the district pay more for our dependents. During negotiations I fought for a fair contract for all our members, not just one group. When the District purposed proof of death on our loved ones to qualify for bereavement leave, I stood firm on not showing proof… and we won. When I hear a member isn’t being treated fairly… I take it personal.
If you all will have me as your VP I plan to fight for fair treatment of all workers, fair wages, negotiating with employers to secure better pay, benefits, working conditions, and job security. We will no allow side deals/meetings to be made with management.
I will not take all the credit. The Transportation Department has had my back from the beginning. Thank you, drivers/floats/office staff, for covering my route while I’ve been in meeting after meeting. Thank you to all drivers and office staff for stepping up, standing up to an intimidating Manager and advocating for our rights. I truly couldn’t have done it without out you guys.
In the coming year my goal is to continue my work for our Chapter. I will fight for comparable wages, build stronger confidence in our members, fight to keep our jobs with the possibility of layoffs, represent all departments fairly and equally.
Omar has been a great and strong leader. Together we are getting it done. He has earned my respect and I’m very proud of him. I would be ready to get to work!
Louis I. Lara, Trades Working Lead
“I would like the opportunity to serve as your union Vice President. I believe a new vision and a fresh voice is needed to get us to the next level. Together we will build and restore confidence and trust back into the union. I will be a voice that represents every member, fighting for what’s best for us collectively and not individually. Is it crucial now more than ever to have a strong experienced voice to help navigate us through the difficult times we face ahead. I have close to 20 years of service on a board in some type of leadership capacity. I held a position on the board of directors for my local church and for a nonprofit foundation. I currently serve on the board for a little league organization. Serving people and bringing about change is nothing new to me. I look forward to advocating and advancing our goals as a union. I believe if we put our strengths together the sky is the limit.”