Bargaining Update: March 5, 2026

Bargaining Update: Strength in Numbers

Negotiations Recap: March 5, 2026

Hi Faculty, Here’s what happened in negotiations this week:

Our Presence in Bargaining Makes A Difference!

Your presence at bargaining is SO IMPORTANT and it makes a difference! Please mark your calendars now to be there at our next meeting:

• When: Thursday, March 19th | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

• Where: Grandview

Progress on Language & Protections from Discipline

We came to a tentative agreement on our first article: Management Rights (it figures, right?). We also passed some counter-proposals in both directions. Shockingly, admin didn’t address any of the articles involving money.

Of most interest to faculty:

• Academic Freedom: Administration counter-proposed on Academic Freedom and suggested striking our proposed language on grading protections for faculty. Talk to your CAT member to learn more!

• Grievance, Discipline & Dismissal: Admin is proposing that we eliminate the current contract language allowing for an optional appeal hearing for tenured faculty who face dismissal. This is another article we want to hear from you about—please talk to your CAT member!

Member Unity & Understanding Our Value

Recent OEA contract campaigns at other schools that moved to picketing, declarations of impasse, and collected strike pledges ended with unprecedented improvements. It’s clear that being united and using our strength in numbers works.

Historic wins from other OEA locals:

• Centennial School District: Achieved raises more than double the rate of inflation after moving to public action.

• Lane Community College: Improved Lab Hours pay and secured historic raises after a 94% strike pledge moved management.

Part of a Higher Ed Movement

We are part of a movement covering more than 50,000 students! Community Colleges from Portland, Mount Hood, Clackamas, and COCC are all at the table to raise standards. We have a historic chance to unify, get our salaries up to market, and address workload.

Action Items:

1. Sign the Petition: Keep your eyes open for the petition in support of our classified colleagues. It is being circulated by CAT folks and will hit your inbox soon.

2. Board Meeting: We plan to present the faculty petition at the next Board meeting: Wednesday, March 11th at 5:00 PM during public comment.

3. Next Negotiation: COME TO THE NEXT SESSION on March 19th, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM in Grandview.

In solidarity,