SEIU Local 1 Members at Kansas City Public Schools Ratify Strong Contract After Months of Negotiations, Endorse GO Bond

Negotiations with Kansas City Public Schools (KCPS) began in February of 2024

KANSAS CITY, MO — Recently, Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 1 working people who ensure the safety and health of KCPS students, staff, and parents ratified a new 3 year contract after months of bargaining. This historic victory for the working people at KCPS not only positively affects these working families, but also the teachers who work alongside these Local 1 members, and the students and parents who have expectations of Kansas City Public Schools. Additionally, Local 1 is proud to support the GO Bond, which if passed on April 8th, will be used to improve student facilities, including much-needed upgrades to HVAC systems, safety and security, and improved space for learning.

Employees covered under the contract include all Child Nutrition Services workers, all Custodial workers, and all Facilities and Maintenance workers, including Electricians, Plumbers, Porters, Cooks, Kitchen Managers, Custodians, and more – all responsible for ensuring the KCPS facilities where students learn are up to the standards Kansas City families expect.

The 3-year contract includes three years of guaranteed raises – including retroactive pay for 2024 –, guaranteed paid holidays including Juneteenth, improved paid bereavement leave, and improved paid leave including two weeks of paid family leave for the birth of a child. Additionally, Local 1 members won improved grievance and discipline processes, improved working conditions, and improved processes for hiring, evaluations, and layoffs.

“For months, we fought diligently because we knew what we deserved, and I am extremely proud of my coworkers and this contract victory,” said Wytaa Downton, a Cook/Cashier who has been a full member of Local 1 for 9 years. “Now, my coworkers and I can continue to focus on helping students and staff without having to worry if we are going to get the compensation we deserve.”

“For nearly a year my coworkers and I were adamant about what we are worth. Now, I am not only honored to help serve the students and staff at Kansas City Public Schools, but am also proud of the contract we are working under,” said Lois Botley, a Kitchen Manager who has been a full member of Local 1 for over 25 years. “Working families deserve to feel some sort of financial security, and this contract helps achieve that for Local 1 KCPS workers.”

“Local 1 members who work at KCPS stood strong during negotiations because they know how essential they are. Worker-led victories are possible when working people come together, and that’s exactly what happened with this contract victory,” said Christian Rak, Vice President of SEIU Local 1. “Students and our communities deserve public schools that provide an environment where children can grow and learn, and that is why Local 1 is proud of this contract victory and also proud to endorse the GO Bond.”