SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – The Lake Tahoe Unified School District (LTUSD) announced it has reached an agreement with the South Tahoe Educators Association (STEA) on Tuesday, October 12, 2026.
“This agreement reflects the District’s commitment to supporting our teachers and staff while continuing to provide a high-quality education for our students, ” the district’s announcement said.
STEA initially requested to reopen negotiations based on the Governor’s proposed Super COLA, stating that the District would receive an additional $5 million in funding. However, the District actually received $3.3 million in additional funding. This distinction is important as LTUSD works to balance competitive employee compensation with its ongoing financial responsibilities.
Under the agreement, all LTUSD certificated employees will receive an additional 1.81% salary increase effective January 1, 2027. This is in addition to the 2.5% salary increase employees received on July 1, 2026, as part of the previously negotiated agreement.
The current teacher salary schedule is available on the district’s website under “Salary Schedules and Salary Ranges” webpage and will be updated soon to reflect the additional increase.
As part of the agreement, STEA negotiated an additional $750 toward health insurance for its members. The District will also adjust contributions for other employee groups so that all LTUSD employees receive an annual District contribution of $15,250 toward health insurance.
STEA members will also receive a one-time payment of $750 in December.
“LTUSD recognizes the importance of offering competitive salaries and benefits to attract and retain highly qualified teachers and staff,” the district said. “Our employees are central to student success, and retaining experienced educators provides the consistency, strong relationships, and quality instruction our students deserve. We want LTUSD to remain a place where talented educators and staff choose to work, grow, and build their careers.”
While LTUSD is pleased to have reached an agreement with STEA, the District says it continues to face budget challenges. “It said the additional commitments will require careful financial planning and thoughtful decisions about future spending,” the district said, “including curriculum, programs, and other District priorities, to maintain a balanced and sustainable budget.”
“LTUSD values the dedication and hard work of all employees who support our students every day. We remain committed to supporting our staff, being responsible stewards of public funds, and keeping students at the center of every decision,” the district said.”
Adding, “Our vision continues to guide our work: To discover and foster the unique talents and potential of all students.”
