Bethel Park School District transportation workers drive a hard bargain, arrive at strong new contract
With 100% membership and a dedicated, knowledgeable bargaining team, AFSCME Local 2972 recently secured a new contract with Bethel Park School District (BPSD) in Allegheny County, PA.
AFSCME Local 2972 members with a big contract win!
Members of Local 2972 are the transportation workers — the bus/van drivers, bus aides, and mechanics — who keep BPSD students moving and get them safely to and from school, field trips, and sporting events.
Local 2972 President John Brown describes himself as "born and raised union," and he credits the sharpness and professionalism of his fellow bargaining team members, including local union officers Chelsea Fetherlin, Windy Watson, Nick Gregg, Pam Doviak, and George Zoeckler, as well as AFSCME Staff Representative Lauren Martin.
"Really, union is the only life for a working person. We keep the standard of living up," John said.
John and his team pored over all the other union contracts in Bethel Park so they were armed with facts and data at the negotiating table. Together, they landed an agreement that includes wage increases, more holidays, and the return of a family medical package that had previously been lost.
"I really believe everybody should have family healthcare and a livable wage."
John also spoke of the "community partnership" that he and his fellow drivers have developed with students and their parents and guardians.
"A lot of people know me because I've been driving their kids for five years. It is really nice that the community, they love their drivers," John said.
"They're good to us and we're happy because of our contract."
BPSD's transportation crew enjoys serving students and their community but continue to struggle with short staffing. If you live in the area and are looking for a good union job, consider applying here!
Shout out to everyone at Local 2972 for this major victory!