AEA Bargaining Team Updates
November 18, 2025 Update
Dear Members,
I want to begin by expressing my gratitude for the tireless work you do every day to support students and families.
Please encourage your colleagues to read this message. Our strength grows when we are all informed and engaged.
We are the union. Every one of us plays a role. And right now, many of your colleagues are stepping up, getting involved, and working hard to push for a fair and respectful contract. I have been truly inspired by the educators who have volunteered their time, shared personal stories, attended meetings, and spoken out. Their dedication reflects the heart of unionism: collective strength, shared responsibility, and solidarity.
Read more for an update about our ongoing contract negotiations.
Arbitration Hearing Set for January
Last Thursday, AEA and ASD jointly selected an arbitrator. Today, we received confirmation that the arbitration hearing is scheduled for January 27-29, 2026.
This officially begins the ninety-day countdown. Counting ninety days from Thursday, November 13, 2025, leads us to February 11, 2026. That means the earliest date we can legally take any job action (including a strike) is February 12, 2026.
After 90 days from the date an arbitrator is chosen, AEA members may conduct a job action, and ASD may impose its last best offer. AS 23.40.200 and 8 AAC 97.280
You can review the latest AEA and ASD proposals, along with all bargaining information, HERE.
📢 AEA prepares for potential strike vote
As the AEA Bargaining Team continues its arbitration preparation, the AEA Organizing Committee will be working closely with building reps in every zone to deepen solidarity and secure a clear commitment from every AEA educator to stand together for a competitive contract.
Either before winter break or shortly after, AEA members will participate in a strike vote. A strike vote does not mean a strike must occur. Instead, it is a critical pressure point, a collective signal that we are united and serious about securing a contract that respects our work and reflects what every educator deserves.
A strike vote authorizes the AEA Board to initiate a strike once we are within the legal window to do so. It will depend on ASD’s actions whether we, as a collective, will need to take that next step.
For us to be as effective as we need to be, it requires all of us. All 3,000 members have a role in this effort. This isn’t just one person’s fight or one group’s fight; it’s our fight, and the outcome impacts every educator in the district.
In Solidarity,
Corey Aist