Anchorage Teachers Union and School District Enter Arbitration

The contract dispute between the Anchorage School District and the Anchorage Education Association, the union representing teachers, has escalated to arbitration. This situation marks the first time in nearly two decades that the two parties have been unable to reach a mediated agreement. The union’s contract officially expired on June 30, 2023, but teachers have continued to work while negotiations unfolded.

Negotiations reached a standstill, with both sides expressing starkly different views on salary increases and benefits. The district proposed annual wage increases of 3% over the next three years, while the union is advocating for significantly higher increases: 8% in the first year, followed by 7% and 6% in the subsequent years. This difference highlights the ongoing challenges as both sides aim to address their respective financial constraints and workforce needs.

According to the district’s statement, “The District believes its proposed salary and benefits increases are reasonable in keeping up with inflationary pressures and honoring the work of educators while addressing the significant budget challenges ahead.” Last year, the district allocated over $361 million for union salaries and benefits, reflecting the financial commitment to its educators.

The union also seeks to increase the district’s contributions for health care, starting at $2,150 per member each month and rising by $100 annually. In contrast, the district’s proposal begins at $2,100 with a $50 annual increase.

Concerns Over Teacher Retention and Funding

As negotiations stalled, concerns about teacher retention have grown. Union President Corey Aist warned that if salaries do not remain competitive with other regions, Anchorage risks losing certified educators to urban districts in the contiguous United States. Aist noted, “The longer this situation continues, the more educators will leave for more competitive urban school districts in the Lower 48 states.”

The situation is compounded by recent changes to Alaska’s retirement plans, which have made it more difficult for districts to attract and retain qualified teachers. While the state legislature approved a $700 increase to the Base Student Allocation, many educators argue it is insufficient to keep pace with inflation and the rising costs of living in Anchorage.

The district’s website stated that without additional legislative support, it may be forced to cut staff and programs to balance its budget. Such cuts could disproportionately affect non-tenured educators who have been hired in recent years.

Arbitration Process and Future Implications

As both parties move to arbitration, they will select a third party to help resolve their differences. Once an arbitrator is chosen, both sides must discuss the decision at least once before taking further action. If 90 days pass without a resolution, the district has the authority to impose a contract, or teachers may opt to strike.

The current impasse not only affects wage negotiations but also involves unresolved issues related to retirement accounts, medical and parental leave, and other contractual terms. As of now, of the original 21 articles under discussion, only 11 remain to be settled.

Educators have expressed frustration over increased workloads, including larger class sizes and the growing need for support among students with special needs and mental health challenges. Many teachers claim that their take-home pay has decreased compared to previous years, with some stating they are financially unable to retire despite decades of service.

Long-term, the Anchorage School District’s ability to maintain a stable and effective teaching workforce will hinge on resolving these contract disputes. With ongoing vacancies and a high turnover rate among new hires, the district faces pressing challenges in ensuring quality education for its students. As the arbitration process unfolds, the outcomes will have significant implications for the future of education in Anchorage.