BHUSD and BHEA Reach Principled Agreement, Reinforcing Commitment to Excellence and Stability

In a decisive and forward-looking act of collaboration and leadership, the Beverly Hills Unified School District and the Beverly Hills Education Association announced the successful completion of their 2025–2026 Tentative Agreement. Finalized before the close of the academic year, the agreement marks a moment of unity and shared purpose—focusing on what's best for students, educators, and the broader community.

After months of thoughtful, principled negotiations, the agreement addresses key priorities: attracting and retaining top-tier educators, supporting inclusive classrooms, and ensuring stability going into the next school year. It’s a testament to the maturity and mutual respect demonstrated by both bargaining teams.

Highlights of the Tentative Agreement include:

• A 4.75% increase to all salaries and extra pay, effective July 1, 2025 • Certificated hourly rate increased to $66.46/hour • $1,500 increase to the benefits cap, now totaling $14,750 • New paid evacuation leave policies for emergencies • Updated TK–5 class size ratios • Counselor caseload guideline set at 325:1 • Strengthened co-teaching and collaborative planning language • Additional staffing, including a second district librarian

“This agreement represents a major achievement for our entire community,” said Rachelle Marcus, President of the BHUSD Board of Education. “As a former teacher, I am thrilled to see us reach this agreement before the school year concludes. Both sides came to the table with respect and a shared focus on what is best for our students and educators. I am proud of the balanced outcome we achieved together.”

Katherine Warren, President of BHEA, shared that, “We are delighted to have an agreement before the end of the school year. I would like to acknowledge the hard work and commitment of both bargaining teams in making this deal possible. I would also like to thank Dr. Cherniss and the Board for their continued support.”

The Tentative Agreement now moves to BHEA membership and the BHUSD Board for formal ratification. But its significance is already clear: shared vision, respectful dialogue, and principled compromise can lead to real results—results that benefit not just employees, but the students they serve every day.

As BHUSD moves into summer with this milestone secured, the district is well-positioned to continue delivering on its core mission: high-quality education grounded in excellence, stability, and integrity.