Just last week, 95 drivers and monitors with First Student in Missouri joined the Teamsters.
Whether they work for STA, First Student or Durham, school bus workers nationwide are looking for fair wages, respect and a voice on the job.
During their organizing campaign, the STA workers held a "Speak Out," a meeting where they brought their concerns and working conditions to the attention of the community. Dozens of workers spoke about the struggles they faced and why they chose to become Teamsters.
Kelly Watson, an STA driver, participated in the "Speak Out" and said:
It felt good to tell people about our struggles and to have our community actually listen to us. Confronting issues like favoritism, no paid sick days and a lack of respect head on was very empowering. Speaking out gave us the inspiration we needed to come together and form our union.Bob Blanchet, President of Local 287 in San Jose, said:
We are elated to welcome these workers to our union and into the Teamster family. These are hardworking people who will make a great impact on our local and we look forward to helping them secure a strong Teamster contract.The Teamsters have organized nearly 31,000 school bus workers since 2006, as part of the Drive Up Standards campaign to raise standards in the school bus industry. To learn more, visit the campaign website.
Congratulations to the newest Teamster members with STA!
