In a recent special meeting held by the Seattle School Board on July 30, 2025, significant discussions centered around the approval of a new contract for school employees and the authorization of a contract with Vera Mobility.

The primary focus of the meeting was the approval of a one-year successor collective bargaining agreement (CBA) for school employees. Tina Mead, the director of labor relations for Seattle Public Schools, presented the contract, which essentially rolls over the previous agreement with no major changes except for a wage increase. This increase is based on the state's implicit price deflator, which reflects a 2.5% cost of living adjustment. However, Mead noted that the state's funding model does not fully cover this increase, leading to a potential rise in the district's structural deficit.

Board members sought clarification on whether this wage increase had already been factored into the district's budget. Acting Superintendent Podesta confirmed that the implicit price deflator had indeed been included in the budget projections, alleviating concerns about unexpected financial impacts. The board unanimously approved the contract, signaling support for the wage increase despite the budgetary challenges it may pose.

In addition to the CBA, the board also discussed a motion to authorize the superintendent to execute a contract with Vera Mobility and two interlocal agreements with King County. This initiative aims to enhance transportation services for students. The urgency of this action was emphasized, as it is considered to be in the best interest of the district.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the ongoing financial challenges faced by Seattle Public Schools while also demonstrating a commitment to supporting employee wages and improving student transportation services. The board's decisions reflect a balancing act between fiscal responsibility and the need to provide adequate support for both staff and students. As the district moves forward, the implications of these decisions will be closely monitored, particularly in relation to the structural deficit and the effectiveness of the new transportation agreements.