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Collective bargaining helps Richmond school employees secure 22 percent raise

Crystal Graham
richmond virginia
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Wages and working conditions will see an improvement in Richmond Public Schools, after a collective bargaining agreement was ratified.

Teamsters in the custodial and plant services departments overwhelmingly voted in support of a three-year contract.

The contract includes a 22 percent raise, enhancements to the uniform policy and an increase in paid time off.

In 2021, restrictions were lifted in Virginia allowing collective bargaining in public sectors.

The Teamsters Local 322 union represents more than 2,000 workers in the state.

“This victory demonstrates the power of collective bargaining and the importance of standing together for better working conditions,” said Dwayne Johnson, director of organizing at Local 322.

Members were instrumental in securing the agreement.

“We fought hard for this contract, and I am thrilled with the outcome. The wage increases and improved working conditions will make a significant difference in our lives,” said Lawrence Pope, a custodian with Richmond Public Schools. “I am proud to have been part of this process and to see our efforts rewarded.”

For more information, visit teamsterslocal322.org.

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Crystal Graham

Crystal Graham

Crystal Abbe Graham is the regional editor of Augusta Free Press. A 1999 graduate of Virginia Tech, she has worked for 25 years as a reporter and editor for several Virginia publications, written a book, and garnered more than a dozen Virginia Press Association awards for writing and graphic design. She was the co-host of "Viewpoints," a weekly TV news show, and co-host of Virginia Tonight, a nightly TV news show on PBS. Her work on "Virginia Tonight" earned her a national Telly award for excellence in television.