The University of California operates three K-12 schools—UCLA Lab School, the Geffen Academy (UCLA), and the Preuss School (UCSD)—and instructors at these schools are part of UC-AFT’s Unit 18 Teaching Faculty Bargaining Unit. Many of the rights and protections outlined in the Unit 18 contract apply to them and each campus has also negotiated its own Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to address the specific needs and working conditions of K-12 instructors and substitute teachers. Learn more about your rights as a K-12 Instructor here.
Know Your Rights – Unit 18 Teaching Faculty
Job Security
Since 2003, when UC-AFT first secured landmark protections for Continuing Lecturers, we have worked together to transform our teaching “gigs” into more stable, full-time jobs. In our most recent 2021 collective bargaining agreement, we expanded opportunities for professional advancement at every stage of your teaching career.
Our collective bargaining agreement protects your right to transparent review processes including written feedback after first year of teaching and regular reviews as part of multi-year appointments for Pre-Continuing Lecturers.
It also established new promotion processes for Senior Continuing Lecturers (eligibility after 3rd merit review of a Continuing Appointment).
Regular Raises
In our 2021 Collective Bargaining Agreement, we fought for and won average raises totaling 30% over the life of the contract (2022-2025). These included minimum 3% merit increases upon reappointment for early career lecturers and over 6% merit increases after Continuing Appointments.
Healthcare and Benefits
As Unit 18 teaching faculty, you have access to:
- Core health health benefits if your appointment percentage is greater than 44%
- Retirement benefits for annual appointments 50% or higher.
Rehiring Rights
Written feedback after 1st year teaching and regular reviews as part of multi-year appointments.
Pre-Continuing teaching faculty who have demonstrated effectiveness must be offered their course again before external applicants are considered.
Office Space
Access to secure office space, storage space, office supplies, and other instructional necessities.
Professional Development Funds
Annual grants to members for conference travel, training, and other forms of Professional Development for all Unit 18 Lecturers, regardless of appointment percentage.
Grants administered by campus committees that include Unit 18 teaching faculty.
Continuing Appointments
After your sixth year (18 quarters/12 semesters) teaching and an excellence review, you are eligible for a Continuing Appointment with:
- Ongoing, indefinite appointments;
- Regular merit reviews and salary increases.
Paid Medical and Family Leave
Expanded access to various forms of paid leave, including:
- 8 weeks pregnancy disability leave
- 4 weeks Pay for Family Care and Bonding
- 3 quarters/2 semesters Active Service-Modified Duties for all new parents
Grievance Process
Contractually-provided recourse when your rights have been violated, when disagreements over application of rules and policies affecting conditions of employment emerge, or when you are experiencing sexual harassment or discrimination based on your race, ethnicity, immigration status, gender identity, or disability.
Your union has your back and will provide support and representation every step of the way.
It’s also essential to know that UC gives us a very limited time to object to a violation of our rights: 30 days from the time you first become aware of an issue, even if you don’t completely understand what is happening or you’re not sure whether there’s actually a problem. Don’t wait to see if a situation resolves itself. Get in touch right away so we can assess what’s happening together and provide the support and mutual aid you deserve.
Discrimination-free Workplace
Protections against sexual harassment and discrimination based on race, religion, disability, gender identity, ethnicity, and immigration status.
