JESPA is proud to announce the successful ratification of a new six-year agreement with Jeffco Public Schools—our longest contract to date, effective from September 1, 2025 through August 31, 2031. This landmark agreement provides long-term stability, guaranteed compensation increases, and enhanced protections for Education Support Professionals (ESPs) across the district.
This win is the result of months of organizing, collective bargaining, and member engagement. It reflects the strength of our union and our shared vision for a respectful, safe, and professional work environment.
Long-Term Stability and Security
The six-year term of this contract brings a new level of predictability and job security for JESPA members. In 2028, both JESPA and the District will have the opportunity to reopen up to three articles each, in addition to compensation and benefits discussions—ensuring continued flexibility while maintaining long-term protections.
Stronger Protections Against Outsourcing
One of the most significant gains in this contract is enhanced language to protect ESP jobs from privatization. Under the new agreement:
- The District must provide JESPA with 30 days’ notice before issuing any Request for Proposal (RFP) related to ESP work.
- The District is required to meet with JESPA before finalizing any outsourcing plans to explore viable alternatives.
- Internal vacancies must remain posted, even when temporary contractors are used.
Additionally, JESPA will now meet with the District each semester to review existing contracts that could impact ESP positions and recommend alternatives—such as offering more hours to current part-time staff before turning to outside contractors.
Expanded Definition of Bargaining Unit Work
To prevent work from being removed from the union without cause, the contract clarifies that any new position with duties similar to existing ESP roles must be included in the bargaining unit, unless clearly defined as administrative or confidential. JESPA must also be consulted before any position is removed from the unit.
Respect & Dignity
A newly added Respect article (Article 5) now affirms every ESP’s right to a workplace free from discrimination, retaliation, and mistreatment. This article:
- Reinforces the District’s duty to provide a professional and respectful work environment.
- Strengthens protections for employees engaging in union activity or asserting their workplace rights.
Fair Compensation and Bilingual Pay
Wages and benefits remain a top priority, and this contract delivers:
- Continued step advancements and wage protections.
- Reopener language that allows JESPA to negotiate wages and benefits during the life of the contract.
- Stronger bilingual pay protections: Employees using approved language skills will continue receiving a 5% differential, which cannot be reduced or revoked under this contract.
Due Process and Fair Discipline
The contract maintains critical due process rights, including:
- Just cause standards for any disciplinary action.
- A clear commitment to progressive discipline and transparency in investigations.
- A requirement that the District present evidence before any discipline is issued.
Safety and Emergency Protocols
Safety remains a foundational concern. The new Safety article guarantees:
- The right to call 911 during emergencies without fear of retaliation.
- Access to paid CPR and First Aid training upon request.
- District responsibility to identify “essential personnel” ahead of emergency events.
Union Rights and Representation
JESPA building representatives retain the right to share contract information at worksite meetings and orientations, ensuring members stay informed and empowered.
New Article for Custodial ESPs
For the first time, custodial workers now have a dedicated article in the contract. This article:
- Defines clearer expectations around assignments and staffing levels.
- Provides protections tailored to the custodial work environment.
- Strengthens JESPA’s ability to advocate for this essential group of workers.
What We’ve Maintained
In addition to new gains, all previously secured rights and benefits remain intact, including:
- Grievance procedures
- Reduction in force guidelines
- Sick and personal leave accrual
- Health and safety language
- Right to participate in professional development and committee work
What This Means for ESPs
This contract is more than a document—it’s a statement of values. It reflects what JESPA members have long fought for:
✅ Long-term job security
✅ Increased wages and expanded pay protections
✅ Safer, more respectful workplaces
✅ Stronger union voice on the job
✅ Improvements tailored to specific departments and classifications
Whether you’re a current member, a potential member, or a supporter of public education, this agreement is a testament to what collective action can achieve.
Together, we’re building a stronger, more stable future for all ESPs in Jeffco.
