April 14, 2026

​We are in one of the most active and challenging times of the year. Between bargaining, school closure discussions, and end-of-year responsibilities, there is a lot happening all at once.
This update is intended to give members a clear picture of where things stand.

Bargaining Update
CEA is actively engaged in bargaining with the district.
Our focus remains on:

• Wages and cost of living
• Health insurance costs
• Working conditions
• Retention and recruitment of staff

These conversations are ongoing. We are pushing for an agreement that reflects the work our members do every day while recognizing the financial realities facing the district.

School Closures and Consolidation
The district is currently moving forward with plans to consolidate schools, including Meadow Lakes Elementary, Larson Elementary, and Glacier View School.
CEA has been involved in discussions with the district to ensure:

• The contract is followed
• Employees understand their rights and options
• The process is carried out as fairly and realistically as possible

This includes:

• Monitoring displacement and staffing impacts
• Reviewing timelines and expectations placed on staff
• Advocating for adjustments where needed

Meetings with affected staff are ongoing, and we expect continued changes as the process moves forward.

Displacement, Seniority, and Recall
With closures and staffing changes, the displacement and recall process becomes critical.
CEA is actively:

• Reviewing seniority lists for accuracy
• Monitoring available positions across the district
• Ensuring recall rights are enforced

Members should stay engaged, check communications regularly, and reach out with questions about their specific situation.

End of School Year Expectations
At the same time, staff are being asked to:

• Finish out the school year
• Support students through transitions
• Begin packing and preparing for potential moves

We have been clear with the district:
Staff cannot be expected to do two full-time jobs at once.
CEA is continuing to push for:

• Realistic expectations
• Clear timelines
• Support for staff during this transition

What Comes Next
The next several weeks will include:

• Continued meetings with district leadership
• Final decisions on staffing
• Ongoing bargaining discussions
• Implementation of end-of-year processes

This is an evolving situation, and we expect updates as decisions are made.

Final Thought
​We understand that this is a stressful and uncertain time.
CEA is actively engaged in every part of this process — from bargaining to closures to placement — working to protect your rights and reduce the impact wherever possible.
We will continue to communicate as things develop.
If you have questions or concerns, please reach out.
You are not alone in this process — CEA is here to support you every step of the way.
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Rick Morgan
President
Mat-Su Classified Employees’ Association
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6177 E. Mountain Heather Rd Suite 6
Palmer, Alaska  99645-8442
Office (907) 373-0800 |  Cell (907) 355-6478

What are you waiting for??

Join CEA today!

Every voice is important and every education support professional (ESP) in our bargaining unit is needed. Whether you are a custodian, a paraprofessional, a nutrition service worker, clerical, or facility worker YOU will make a difference.  I hope you will consider standing united with your fellow ESP's in the Mat-Su!
​No other professional organization does more for Alaskan educators. With your support we can protect our profession today, and for the next generation of educators!
​​Join Now!

  We have a great partnership with Grand Canyon University! Below is our contact who lives in Anchorage, give her a call!

Hannah Meneses (is our IN STATE contact!)
University Development Counselor
Grand Canyon University
907-201-1965
[email protected]

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