May Matters Campaign: Weeks #1 & #2
Dear Wayland Families,
We are writing to provide a transparent update on the state of contract negotiations between the Wayland Educators Association (WEA) and the School Committee.
As we progress through the bargaining process, the WEA remains eager to reach a settlement that supports our schools. However, there remains a widening gap between the District’s current position and the economic reality facing our educators. While we are encouraged that the teaching assistants in Unit B have reached a settlement—reflecting a critical effort to address long-standing salary inequities—the teachers in Unit A have yet to receive a proposal that meets the professional needs of our members.
While both sides have invested significant time in productive conversations, the current status of talks fails to provide the necessary course correction to keep Wayland competitive. To ensure we continue to attract and retain the high-quality staff our students deserve, we must reach an agreement that reflects today’s economic demands and the professional value of our educators.
Why Action is Necessary As educators, our priority is always the success and well-being of your children. To advocate for the sustainable future of our schools, we are beginning our “May Matters” campaign, which will continue until our next bargaining session on Tuesday, May 26th.
For week one, we held a “Work-to-Rule” action on Friday, May 8th. This means that while we continue to fulfill all core instructional duties and contractual obligations, we are adhering strictly to the hours and responsibilities outlined in our current agreement. During the following week, we will not be responding to work-related emails outside of contract hours and will institute another “Work-to-Rule” day on Friday, May 15th.
For years, our staff has gone above and beyond—arriving early, staying late, and often funding classroom needs personally. We have reached a point where we must insist on a contract that respects our professional time and compensates us appropriately to maintain the excellence of the Wayland school system.
The Reality: Falling Behind Our Neighbors Our primary concern is twofold: the rising cost of living and our competitive standing in the region.
- The Cost of Living Crisis: A Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) is a necessity for our teachers to meet their basic needs. Currently, 45% of our union members work a second or third job. When salary increases fail to keep pace with inflation, it results in a functional pay cut.
- The Competitive Gap: We are no longer just competing with our own past; we are competing with neighboring towns. Nearby districts currently offer significantly more competitive benefit packages and compensation. Wayland risks becoming a “stepping stone” district where we train talented teachers only to watch them leave for more sustainable careers just a few miles away.
The Compensation Gap: A Five-Year Trend Over the past five years, Wayland educators have seen their purchasing power decline. From 2021 to 2025, the average annual COLA for our educators was only 2.87%, falling well short of the 4.62% regional inflation rate and the 5.14% federal Social Security COLA.
How does this impact your child?
- Instruction First: Your child’s classroom learning, safety, and core support remain our #1 priority.
- Voluntary Activities: You may notice a pause in non-contractual activities, such as after-school clubs where advisors volunteer their time, unpaid chaperoning, or evening events.
- Communication: Responses to emails or phone calls will take place strictly during school hours.
How you can help We understand that any shift in school routine can be frustrating. We ask for your patience as we advocate for a sustainable future for our schools. A fair contract isn’t just about us—it’s about ensuring that your children have energized, supported, and dedicated teachers for years to come.
Sincerely,
The Wayland Educators Association
