The Benefits Advisory Committee (BAC) meets monthly to discuss and make recommendations regarding Jeffco’s benefits structure and offerings. JESPA has three representatives on the committee: Sarah McClintock, JCEAOP President; Sarah Smith, JCPK President; and Zander Kaschub, JESPA President.
Recently, concerns have been raised about the misrepresentation of the BAC’s work by the Jeffco Total Rewards department. During an early January Board of Education study session, Adam Barnett, Total Rewards Director, falsely claimed that the BAC had unanimously recommended ending Jeffco’s contract with Aetna and awarding United Healthcare a contract worth upwards of $26 million for the 2025-2026 school year. In reality, the BAC made no such recommendation.
This incident continues a pattern of disregard and intentional misrepresentation by Barnett. Last year, the BAC dedicated months of effort to develop three reasonable recommendations to revise Jeffco’s benefits contribution model. However, Barnett misled the committee into believing that their recommendations would be presented to the Board of Education and corresponding negotiation teams, which did not happen. This omission resulted in multiple grievances and contributed to the frustration and hostility experienced by workers during JESPA’s negotiations.
Last Tuesday evening, in response to these ongoing concerns, BAC members decided to formally capture a vote on whether to recommend contracting with United Healthcare. The result was a split vote of 3-3-1, with all three JESPA representatives voting against the recommendation. Their opposition reflected broader concerns about the healthcare industry and economic disparities, emphasizing how rising costs disproportionately burden workers while large corporations continue to profit.
The Jeffco Board of Education proceeded to award United Healthcare the contract last Thursday, raising questions about the role and influence of the BAC in the decision-making process. Although the BAC’s vote may seem inconsequential on the surface, JESPA’s opposition stands as a statement against the monopolization of the healthcare industry and the growing economic divide impacting workers daily.
Moving forward, JESPA and its members must continue advocating for transparency and accountability within Jeffco’s benefits decision-making process. Ensuring that worker voices are genuinely considered and respected remains a critical priority.
