LAGUNA HILLS - Over 1,000 Capistrano Unified Education Association members marched in front of their schools, holding picket signs and handing out leaflets to parents, before classes began this morning. CUEA members were expressing their concern and frustration over the failure of the district to bargain fairly and settle the 2001-2002 contract. At issue is the district's claim that it does not have the revenues to offer its educators a fair salary and health benefits settlement. CUEA President Frank Weirath, said "In spite of the district's claim of a 'fiscal squeeze' the fact-finding process that will begin today will prove that the district will have reserves in excess of $18 million."
In September, 98% of CUEA members voted a resolution of no confidence in Capistrano Unified School District Superintendent Fleming. The no confidence resolution cited Fleming's failure to lead the district to a successful conclusion of the current contract negotiation dispute with the association, and Fleming's attempts to mislead the public regarding teacher compensation.
"This is the lowest I've seen morale in this district in my twelve years as a leader in CUEA" said Weirath. "I have never seen the members of CUEA more unified in their opposition to Superintendent Fleming's leadership and in support of their association bargaining team."
Capistrano Unified School District is the only district in Orange County that has not settled their 2001-2002 contract with certificated employees. The average contract salary settlement in Orange County is around 5%. Currently negotiations between the school district and the Capistrano Unified Education Association are at impasse and the fact-finding process began today.