History of the Saugus Teachers Association

The Saugus District Association was founded in 1966 with Bernie McDonald as the first president. The Association had no particular powers. Meetings were held in parks or community halls since no association activities could be conducted on school premises. Nevertheless, SDA lobbied for air conditioning and carpeting in classrooms, and for the rights of pregnant teachers. The Association was also very active as a social group.

In the late 1960's, a state law was enacted requiring teachers and administration to "meet and confer" to determine salaries and working conditions. Initial efforts were unsuccessful. In 1969, a majority of Association members voted to become the Saugus Teachers Association (STA) and join the United Teaching Profession (UTP) as a chapter of the California Teachers Association (CTA). A minority had wanted to join the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).

The passage of the Rodda Act in 1976 mandated collective bargaining. STA leadership was assisted by CTA with training in negotiation strategies, law, Education Code, contract language, and awareness of current practices.

STA faced its darkest days in the early 1980's. In January and February of 1980 teachers picketed almost daily before school in front of school sites, and then went to their classrooms and taught. During those times, it was commonplace to see teachers wearing buttons with the slogan: "TOGETHER WE CAN."

As a result of the struggle, STA became a viable bargaining force well beyond its origins as a social organization. Representing Saugus teachers while maintaining the highest quality instruction for students remains STA's goals.

from the pamphlet: STAnds and Delivers for YOU!, 7/95

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