In an exciting development for students and families, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) and United Teachers Los Angeles (UTLA) have reached a tentative agreement to fully reopen classrooms for the 2021-2022 school year. The deal, which prioritizes safety and equity, paves the way for students to return to on-campus learning while ensuring robust health protocols remain in place.
What the Agreement Entails
Starting this fall, LAUSD students will be back in classrooms five days a week, with middle and high school students transitioning between classes throughout the day. The agreement also ensures a remote learning option for those who prefer to stay online.
A key component of the plan is the implementation of strict COVID-19 safety measures, including:
- Regular testing and daily symptom screenings to monitor and reduce risk.
- Enhanced cleaning protocols across all campuses.
- Paid leave for quarantined staff to ensure uninterrupted safety measures.
- Reasonable accommodations for high-risk staff who choose to remain in the online teaching program.
The agreement reflects a strong commitment to educators. Teachers who previously faced the risk of displacement will now retain their positions for the upcoming school year. Additionally, efforts will be made to minimize combo classes (mixed-grade classrooms). For teachers required to lead combo classes, a $1,200 stipend will be provided to recognize the added workload. UTLA representatives also negotiated a permanent increase in the training pay rate, raising it from $25 to $50 per hour.
Flexible Learning Options
As part of the deal, the district will expand its online-only independent study program, modeled after the City of Angels framework. This program will blend live, interactive lessons with independent assignments, offering flexibility to students who thrive in remote learning environments.
LAUSD Superintendent Austin Beutner expressed optimism about the agreement:
“By working together, we’re ensuring that every student has access to a safe, high-quality education this fall, whether they choose in-person or online learning.”
UTLA officials echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of safety protocols for a successful reopening:
“Our focus remains on protecting our educators, students, and their families while delivering the education our community deserves.”
What’s Next?
The tentative agreement will be put to a vote by UTLA members in the coming weeks. If ratified, the new policies and guidelines are expected to take effect on June 23.
This deal marks a significant step forward in restoring normalcy for students and staff after over a year of disruptions caused by the pandemic. Families and educators alike can look forward to a more stable and supportive school year ahead.