Navigating School Labor Talks and Avoiding a Strike

Challenge

Already facing a severe budget shortfall, Salem-Keizer Public Schools (SKPS) faced labor contract negotiations with its teacher and classified staff unions that sought substantial wage and benefit increases. The labor negotiations occurred in the shadow of similar wage talks that resulted in a month-long teacher strike in Portland Public Schools.

Approach

Relying on relevant focus group findings, CFM provided strategic communications counsel to SKPS administrative officials. Including recommendations on framing the district’s position on negotiations and supportive key messages. CFM assisted in direct communications to parents, the news media and legislators who represented the district.

Success

The school district reached separate agreements with teachers and classified staff, avoiding a strike.

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