Negotiations with our labor partner, the Modesto Teachers Association (MTA) are off to a productive and positive start! We began on Tuesday October 7 in a meeting held at the District Office and exchanged initial proposals. Although nothing is official until both the District and MTA’s membership agree to it, it was clear that there are key matters on which we agree.
This is refreshingly forward momentum during the start of negotiations! The District’s negotiations committee is truly grateful for productive and efficient collaboration by both sides.
We are discussing a number of matters as “automatic reopeners.” These are items that the District and MTA have agreed to bring back automatically, and some may be items brought back automatically every year. A good example is health and welfare benefits: it is typical in negotiations for this to be up for discussion automatically, annually.
The automatic reopener articles for both parties in this negotiation cycle are:
Article IX: Salary
Article X: Health and welfare benefits
Here are other articles opened by MTA:
Article V: Leaves (Contract section relating to leaves of absence)
Article VII: Staffing ratios
Propose the creation of a new article relating to Special Education
In addition to the automatic reopeners, the District has brought forward the following articles:
Article IV: Hours of Employment
Article VI: Class Size
Article XXII: Additional Programs (educational programs offered to students)
The District is committed to an efficient, effective and transparent negotiations process and we believe in making decisions that are focused on improving student outcomes. We recognize and value staff in a number of ways - through this negotiations process, but also through investment in professional development and support. We are grateful to MTA’s leadership for their contributions to a positive and productive first session! We look forward to coming together again at our next two scheduled sessions, on October 15 and again on October 28.
We are better together!
As negotiations move forward at Modesto City Schools, we are sharing a message from committee member and Associate Superintendent of Student Support Services Mark Herbst. Herbst explains what staff and the community can expect as the district begins its 2025–2026 contract negotiations with the Modesto Teachers Association. Below, Superintendent Dr. Vanessa Buitrago shares why she approaches this process with respect, optimism, and a shared focus on students.
One District, One Purpose: Message from the Superintendent
Greetings, MCS Community,
As we continue contract negotiations with the California School Employees Association and begin contract negotiations with the Modesto Teachers Association, I want our staff to hear from me directly, and I want you to know my approach to this process.
Negotiations are a normal part of the life of any school district. They often bring different perspectives, and at times, they lead to tough conversations. However, different viewpoints don’t have to mean we are divided. In fact, I believe this process can make us stronger.
We’ve all seen what happens when groups let deep divides take hold. Across our country, and even in some school districts, it leads to strife and dysfunction. At Modesto City Schools, we have the opportunity to set a different example —one built on respect, collaboration, and a focus on what unites us: our students.
Teachers, staff, administrators, families, and students—together we are one community. Our strength comes from working side by side, even when conversations are complex, with our eyes on the same goal: to fulfill our vision, which is that every student graduates with the skills, knowledge, and character traits necessary to thrive and contribute to society. We can only achieve this goal by investing in our own growth and in the relationships that sustain us.
I am deeply grateful for the passion, skill, and care you bring to your work. As we navigate this negotiation process, let’s do so with optimism, respect, and a shared commitment to the future of our students. Again, we will not always agree, and we may not get everything we want; you know, as I do, that such is life. However, we strive to find a solution that works for everyone. This must be our way, a way that cannot reinforce the toxicity that we see in other spaces.
Remember: Our schools are only as positive and productive as we make them. You (WE) belong here. We all share the responsibility of modeling care, belonging, and commitment to collective efficacy.
If you have any questions about this communication, please get in touch with me directly at buitrago.v@monet.k12.ca.us.
In community,
Dr. Vanessa Buitrago
Modesto City Schools Superintendent