First Student Strike Ends With Better Benefits, Wages

Local 330 Members Ratify Contract Following Unfair
Labor Practices

Eleven percent wage increases over the next two years are guaranteed for Teamster school bus workers in DeKalb, who have voted overwhelmingly to accept a new contract and end a five-day strike.

Teamsters Local 330 welcomed the 97 new members into the union on Friday. The school bus drivers and monitors with First Student went on strike last week after the company declared an impasse in negotiations and walked away from the bargaining table. First Student returned in good faith following the strike and offered the union a contract to ensure wages, benefits and job protection for all workers.

“The Teamsters were prepared to fight for a fair and equitable agreement for the hardworking men and women in DeKalb,” said Dominic Romanazzi, Local 330 President. “First Student employees stood their ground to send a strong message to management that they deserved a just and comprehensive contract. I am proud of their commitment and determination.”

First Student’s refusal to negotiate forced the Teamsters to file unfair labor practice charges prior to the strike. While the union had been working to reach a new contract since March, the company’s return to the bargaining table last week signaled a renewed opportunity for management to negotiate amicably.

In addition to increased wages, the new contract promises employees a host of other workplace improvements. Increased health and life insurance coverage, guaranteed seniority, holiday pay and stronger grievance procedures have been secured for all workers.

Teamsters Joint Council 25 represents school bus workers throughout Illinois, including approximately 100 with Teamsters Local 673, approximately 800 with Teamsters Local 777, approximately 700 with Teamsters Local 179 and more than 400 with Local 330.

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