CCSD, Teachers’ Union Clash Over Race-Based Salary Claims in Resolved Contract Talks

Las Vegas, NV – An allegation of race-based discrimination emerged during contract negotiations between the Clark County School District (CCSD) and the Clark County Education Association (CCEA), according to documents filed with the Nevada Employee-Management Relations Board (EMRB).

The Claim:

• CCSD claimed CCEA Executive Director John Vellardita rejected a “lookback” proposal to reevaluate existing employee salaries due to its potential benefit for white suburban teachers.

Vellardita’s Response:

• He denies the claim, stating the proposal wouldn’t address the district’s core issue of teacher vacancies, primarily concentrated in urban areas.
• He argues the lookback could exacerbate pay disparities between suburban and urban teachers, with potential negative impacts for teachers of color.

Settlement and Disagreement:

• While the overall contract dispute was settled in December, CCSD maintains its stance on the alleged discriminatory statement.
• CCEA argues the claim is inaccurate and taken out of context.

New Contract and Remaining Issue:

• A new two-year contract established a new salary schedule based on experience and education for new hires.
• A separate issue regarding incentive payments and mandatory bargaining remains unresolved.

Background:

• Both sides filed unfair labor practice complaints during the negotiations, which are common during tense negotiations.
• The allegations emerged from a series of complaints and counter-complaints ultimately settled last year.

Credits: Review Journal