Business
TUSD Workers Awarded 12 Weeks Parental Leave as PCC Begins Budgeting Process
The Tucson Unified School District Governing Board is set to vote on a proposal granting up to 12 weeks of parental leave to its 8,300 employees. This initiative aims to reinforce regular compensation for eligible workers, who must qualify for federal family medical leave and have a year of service with the district.
Eligible employees will be able to take this leave simultaneously with their Family and Medical Leave Act days. The policy extends recognition of parental leave to spouses and “committed partners” of those who have recently given birth, adopted, or taken on a new child through guardianship up to the age of 17.
In light of the workforce challenges exacerbated by the pandemic, local governments are increasingly looking to enhance employee benefits, like parental leave, to retain staff. The TUSD board will also consider allowing school psychologists to return to employment after a year-long retirement period, which aligns with existing public employment regulations.
Currently, TUSD employs 34.2 full-time equivalent psychologists, but 7.8 positions remain unfilled, highlighting educational sectors’ struggle to fill critical roles in their communities. Meanwhile, in Vail, the Unified School District is preparing to vote on intergovernmental agreements that would allow other districts to utilize its “Beyond Textbooks” curriculum, propelling the district into a fee-based revenue model.
The proposed fees for the curriculum include an administrative charge of up to $11,000 and $11 per student enrolled, plus a $2,000 training session fee. Meanwhile, the Pima Community College District Governing Board is looking ahead to fiscal year 2026—an early move given that only two months of fiscal year 2025 have passed.
This forward-thinking approach attracts attention due to the stability provided by property tax funding. The college maintains a reserve equating to 75% of its general fund budget, allowing for a buffer against revenue fluctuations. As such, the upcoming board meeting will delve into comprehensive planning and potential redevelopment projects.
In Santa Cruz County, the Board of Supervisors is expected to approve a contract for architect David Shambach to design a new animal shelter. The project, funded in part by a $500,000 contribution from U.S. Representative Raul Grijalva, will replace the current facility, enhancing animal welfare in the region.
On the educational front, the Amphitheater Unified School District will review overrides approved since 2005, which have funded essential programs such as art and music. The Catalina Foothills Unified School District plans to establish new policies aimed at supporting foster children, ensuring credit transfer and aligning standards with state requirements.
However, in Flowing Wells, the governing board will address a contentious health textbook for public review, a move required by state law that mandates a 60-day review period. Discussions will include adjustments to grade reporting timelines for students, aiming to provide clearer communication on academic assessments.
Lastly, the Rio Nuevo Multipurpose Facilities District Board is reviewing several new development initiatives, including the introduction of Zeke’s Pizza & Coffee and expansions for existing businesses, while also considering retail growth within local malls.