Under Threat Of Strike, SRVUSD Considers 'Emergency' Substitutes

SAN RAMON VALLEY, CA — As the San Ramon Valley Unified School District heads into the next stage of its negotiations with its biggest union on Monday, the district Board of Trustees is set to consider solutions to mitigate the impacts of a strike, such as relying on "emergency substitute" hires, canceling extracurricular activities and trying to arrange for student transportation if a school must close due to inadequate staff supervision.

San Ramon Valley Education Association, which represents educators and school specialists, rejected what SRVUSD called its best and final offer during their third mediation session last month. Negotiations head into the fact-finding stage on Monday, March 9, where three panelists will hear out both parties and present what they feel are the facts of the situation, the union said.

If the union doesn't like the district's offer after fact-finding is over, SRVEA members could strike. Ninety-eight percent of SRVEA's 1,688 members voted to authorize a strike.

The union is striking in an attempt to push for classroom size caps, and more nurses and counselors. The district has pushed back, saying those demands are too costly.

The board will consider Tuesday a resolution that outlines different avenues the district could take in the event of a strike, as DanvilleSanRamon.com first reported.

A strike would constitute a schools emergency, according to a resolution set to be considered Tuesday by the board. If that happens, SRVUSD must ensure students and staff are safe and protected, property is protected and staffing levels are adequate, according to the proposed resolution.

Schools should remain open in the event of a strike, but the district could cancel, modify or postpone specific education programs or extracurriculars. The district will do its best to stay open, but if staffing levels drop enough, school could close to ensure the safety of students, the resolution states.

Any substitute teachers hired must hold a credential or certificate that qualifies them for the job, the proposal said. Volunteers can help out at school, so long as they are supervised.

District administrators can "take action against individuals who are involved in acts of malicious mischief, vandalism, disturbing the peace" or other actions that break the law, according to the resolution.

Employees should not use any leave time to strike and should not discuss efforts during the school day, the resolution said.

The union plans to hold a town hall for members of the public who wish to learn more about their efforts from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., March 12 at the San Ramon Valley High School library.

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