Lynwood – Lynwood Unified School District and the Lynwood Teachers Association have reached an agreement that will provide teachers with a 5 percent bonus for the 2020- 2021 school year, acknowledging educators for their unrelenting service during the pandemic.

The one-time bonus is only for the past year and will be funded using the COVID relief funds the District received to provide needed student resources and services to help mitigate learning loss while supporting activities necessary to maintain the operation and continuity of the District and continuing to employ existing staff. The District and LTA are still in negotiations for the 2021-2022 school year.

“We are delighted to be able to come to an agreement that demonstrates the extent to which we value our educators,” LUSD Superintendent Gudiel R. Crosthwaite said. “The immeasurable support that Lynwood teachers provide, both inside the classroom and out, cannot be understated, and the commitment displayed over the past year, in particular, has inspired triumph over obstacles throughout this community.”

Following school closures in March 2020, Lynwood Unified successfully launched a limited return to schools in spring 2021, clearing the way for in-person summer learning and a full reopening in fall 2021.

Teachers worked diligently throughout the process to provide enrichment opportunities for students through virtual visits with parents, a District hotline, and tutoring services. Instructional staff pivoted quickly to the demands of distance learning through enhanced use of technology and “above and beyond” events, such as student celebrations through car caravan staff parades.

Through the exceptional work of District educators, 16 Lynwood Unified schools were awarded the 2020 California PBIS Community Cares recognition for their positive impact on their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I would like to thank our teachers for their work and patience during negotiations,” LUSD Board President Maria G. Lopez said.

“On behalf of the Lynwood Unified School District, we are honored to partner with you and look forward to collaborating for many years to come.”

The contract is scheduled to go up for LUSD Board of Education approval at the meeting on Dec. 17. The District is continuing negotiations with its classified employee groups and hopes to reach agreement soon.