As we begin our bargaining negotiations for the 2026–2027 school year, I invite each of you to engage in this important process. Together, we stand thousands strong, and it is through members actively participating that we achieve meaningful change for educators. Bargaining is often misunderstood as something that happens only at the bargaining table with a few people. In reality, achievements happen when educators across the district stay informed and take collective action. Bargaining victories don’t happen because of union leadership alone, they happen when YOU are involved. Membership matters, and increasing the number of members in our union matters. If every member talked to just one colleague about joining us, we would grow our power dramatically. It’s time for those on the sidelines to step in.
We are committed to keeping you informed throughout this process and ensuring you have opportunities to be involved. A small group of educators volunteers to serve on the Bargaining Team, the group that sits at the table.
We also have an expanded Bargaining Committee, with one representative invited from each school to ensure every voice is heard. We begin with your ideas through our bargaining suggestion form, followed by a survey to prioritize member concerns, and then the Bargaining Team begins meeting with the district. After each session, we hold a virtual summary meeting with the expanded Bargaining Committee so members can get accurate updates in their buildings. Along the way, you will see opportunities to take action: completing surveys, sharing your stories with school board members, wearing red in solidarity, attending meetings, signing petitions, and more.
We have celebrated major achievements in recent years, 16% raises, recognition of all advanced degrees, three weeks of paid maternity leave, three days of bereavement leave, and more, but our fight for better wages, benefits, and working conditions continues. I invite you to stay informed and be part of this process because YOU are the Union, and your voice ensures the district and school board understand that educators need them to prioritize our profession.
Let’s make a difference together.
In Solidarity,
Clinton McCracken
President, Orange CTA
We Are Action Ready
Bargaining Schedule
| 26-27 Bargaining Schedule | Location | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Bargaining Committee Meeting | Virtual | 1769014800 21st January 2026, 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM |
| Bargaining Committee Meeting | CTA Office | 1769850000 31st January 2026, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM |
Bargaining Summaries
We are in the process of scheduling bargaining meetings with the district. Check back for updates!
