via Fairfax Education Unions Press Release
May 1, 2024 — This morning, Fairfax Education Unions (FEU), an alliance between Fairfax County’s two preeminent education unions, Fairfax Education Association and Fairfax County Federation of Teachers (FCFT), filed for two bargaining unit elections and demanded recognition from Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS).
FCPS workers overwhelmingly signed union authorization cards and a petition urging accreditation of their union. FEU’s collective bargaining campaign is taking place in the ninth largest school district in the country and is the largest public sector bargaining campaign in generations (27,500 workers in two separate bargaining units).
FEA President Leslie Houston issued the following remarks, “Today is a day of triumph for Fairfax County educators, a day where our unity roars like thunder, powered by an unyielding passion and an ironclad determination. Together, we stand shoulder to shoulder, a formidable force, committed to amplifying the voices of every single champion tirelessly advocating for the success of our students.
From the devoted teachers who mold young minds with care to the vigilant school bus drivers who ensure safe passage, from the nurturing cafeteria workers who fuel bodies and minds to the custodians who maintain our sanctuaries of learning, and to the warehouse drivers and workers who tirelessly supply the lifeblood of resources to our schools—each of us is a vital thread in the fabric of education, weaving a tapestry of opportunity and empowerment for our students. Today, we say, “no decisions about us, without us.”
David Walrod, President of FCFT, issued the following statement, “Today we are proud to announce our decision to file for a union election. This pivotal step reaffirms our unwavering commitment to advocate for the rights and well-being of all FCPS staff. For too long, we haven’t had a seat at the table. But now we are empowered to stand together, speak up, and shape FCPS for the better. This initiative marks a significant milestone in our journey towards the bargaining table.
Collective bargaining is here — and it’s here to stay. We’re eager to win our election and sit down at the table, when our voices will be heard and we can begin to transform FCPS into a world-class school system. Our families deserve it, our students deserve it, and our communities deserve it. Together, we will forge a stronger, more unified front to champion the rights of workers, students, and parents.” FEU is encouraging all FCPS workers who signed cards to vote yes for FEU. More information about FEU and collective bargaining at FCPS can be found at www.fairfaxeducationunions.org.
FEU is an alliance between FEA and FCFT, who both represent all non-administrative certified and classified FCPS employees. FEA and FCFT members are teachers, counselors, librarians, teaching assistants, clerical employees, bus drivers, custodians, food service, and other staff who work hard to make our schools succeed.
