October 11, 2024
Dear Chapter Members, All Staff, and Community Members,
We are writing to notify you that the Tillamook School District has canceled our mediation session scheduled for October 17. While we are incredibly disappointed in this unprecedented decision, we have come to expect that the District will play by their own rules and continue to bargain in bad faith, in violation of labor laws.
Our bargaining team has unanimously agreed to file an additional unfair labor practice (ULP) charge with the Employment Relations Board against Tillamook School District to get them to return to the table and settle this contract. This makes not one, but two unfair labor practices!
The District’s actions are a clear failure in leadership. Superintendent Ellis and board member Aufdermauer’s actions have sent a clear message: they do not respect the classified staff who are a critical component to a quality education. The District’s inaction is leaving many of our staff no choice but to find employment elsewhere. Recent turnover rates are not surprising given how the district has treated classified staff through their communications and actions.
Right now, over 80% of classified staff qualify for food stamps, highlighting the urgent need for a fair contract.
Together, we must show the District that their actions are irresponsible and unacceptable.
While they continue to illegally delay bargaining and disrespect our classified staff through the bargaining process, our classified staff are leaving in droves. Ultimately, who takes the brunt of this turnover are our students, families, and community.
We are calling on you to demand better from Superintendent Ellis and board member Aufdermauer by attending the board meeting on Monday, October 14. We must show the District that their actions are unacceptable and demand that they continue bargaining. Wear your blue and show up at East Elementary school at 4:00pm. Together, in solidarity, we will reach a fair contract that creates the learning environment our students deserve.
In Unity,
OSEA Tillamook Chapter 28 Bargaining Team
