Overview

The Cerritos College Faculty Federation (CCFF) has expressed dissatisfaction with the Cerritos College District's recent proposal regarding salary increases for faculty. The CCFF highlights that while the district's offer may appear reasonable, it fails to adequately address the financial needs of faculty members amidst rising inflation.

Concerns have been raised about the district's handling of state-provided cost of living adjustments (COLA) and the implications of one-time stipends on employee retirement funds.

Key details

  • The Cerritos College District has provided a proposal that CCFF finds unfair and unreasonable.
  • CCFF emphasizes that a 5.07% cost of living adjustment was allocated by the California legislature for Cerritos College.
  • The district's proposal primarily includes a one-time stipend rather than a permanent salary increase.
  • CCFF argues that this one-time stipend could result in a loss of over $100,000 in retirement benefits for employees.
  • The state of California has determined the COLA for 2022-23 to be 6.56%, while the district is only offering a 4% salary increase.
  • This discrepancy means the district is retaining an additional 2.5% of state funding intended for employees.
  • CCFF advocates for fair compensation that reflects the dedication of faculty members to the college.
  • The district's actions are described as violating labor law by breaking confidentiality during mediation discussions.
  • The Cerritos College Board of Trustees recently extended President Jose Fierro's contract for four more years at a salary of approximately $250,000 annually.
  • Board of Trustee leader James Cody Birkey praised President Fierro's support for students and faculty.
  • CCFF claims the district has withheld COLA funds from faculty members for 2021 and 2022.
  • There is a call for the district to engage in fair negotiations with faculty regarding compensation.

Context

The ongoing negotiations between the Cerritos College District and the CCFF reflect broader issues of faculty compensation and the impact of inflation on employees' livelihoods. The CCFF is advocating for a more equitable distribution of funds that have been allocated by the state.

What happens next

The CCFF will continue to negotiate with the Cerritos College District, seeking a resolution that meets the needs of faculty members and addresses their concerns regarding compensation and retirement benefits.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific terms of the Cerritos College District's proposal and the potential for further negotiations are not confirmed.