Jun. 7—Negotiating teams for the Novato Unified School District and its two labor unions have secured tentative contract agreements for the 2025-26 school year.
“We’re proud to have reached agreements that recognize the hard work and dedication of our educators and staff,” said Tracy Smith, superintendent of the district. “These salary increases reflect our district’s commitment to attracting and retaining high-quality professionals who support student success every day.”
If ratified by the union and approved by trustees, the California School Employees Association agreement would offer 2% increases in salaries effective July 1. In addition, the pact would offer a 2.5% increase in the district’s contribution toward medical benefits.
The association’s agreement also approves two new job descriptions: certified wellness coach and paraeducator in the vocational transition program.
The California School Employees Association represents about 400 clerical, maintenance and other classified staff workers.
The Novato Federation of Teachers agreement would provide a 2.3% increase in certificated salaries across the board. The teachers’ union represents about 400 teachers, counselors and other certificated staff members.
Members of both bargaining groups are expected to vote next week. The association vote is set for June 10. The teachers’ union will cast votes online, and they will be tabulated at around the same time.
The trustees are expected to vote on the two contracts at the June 24 board meeting.
“These agreements reflect a shared understanding of the challenges facing public education and a mutual commitment to supporting classified and certificated staff,” said Francesca Whitcomb, the district’s employment director and a member of the negotiating team.
“Thank you to the NFT and CSEA negotiations teams for their collaboration, professionalism and dedication throughout the process,” Whitcomb said. “Their commitment to open and productive dialogue has been essential in moving our conversations forward in a positive and constructive manner.”
The district serves about 7,300 students in 12 schools and an independent study student program. Its annual budget is about $131 million.
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