Portland Public Schools Members Reach Tentative Agreement

After long days and weekends passing proposals in bargaining, SEIU 503 members reached a tentative agreement with Portland Public Schools! Despite a budget crisis that brought furlough days and layoffs, we persevered and won the best contract of any union in the district.

Contract highlights include step increases on July 1 over the next 3 years on top of a 2% COLA (cost of living adjustment) in January, another 2.75% COLA next October, and a 3% COLA in July 2028. We were able to maintain our current health insurance premium scontributions and strengthen contract language for custodians.

This tentative agreement is the result of hundreds of our members and supporters showing up to canvass or observe bargaining sessions, emailing the school board and management, and packing school board meetings. Members will now vote to ratify the new contract.