First Student workers in San Leandro, California, have voted to join the Teamsters Local 853. According to a release, the 40 new Teamsters provide student transportation for the San Leandro Unified School District and the San Lorenzo Unified School District.

"Congratulations to our newest brothers and sisters who are fighting to get what they deserve," said Steve Beck, secretary-treasurer of Local 853. "These drivers ensure that our kids get to and from school safely. They ought to be treated with respect, and they deserve a fair contract that reflects their importance within the community."

The workers are now covered under the Teamsters First Student National Master Agreement, one of the largest collective bargaining agreements at any private school bus company in the U.S.

"I voted to join the Teamsters because I wanted to be part of a union that addresses concerns and advocates for a better future for all of us," said Vanessa Bumbrico, bus operator at First Student and new member of Teamsters Local 853. "This victory will help us to secure improved pay, health insurance, paid days off — the list goes on."

Teamsters Local 853 represents 13,000 members at more than 300 employers across the Greater Bay Area, up to the Oregon border, down the Central Coast, and out towards Sacramento.

On the other coast, Vermont Teamsters Local 597 school bus drivers and monitors at Travel Kuz, which serves Windham SE Supervisory Union, are locked out after the company refused to bargain following Aug. 7 negotiations. According to a release, workers cite late pay, withheld benefits, and unfair treatment, while the union has filed an unfair labor practice charge for withholding information. Leaders stress that members are essential workers seeking only fair compensation and respect for their role in safely transporting students.