High Standards for High Tech

​An Equity Project for Students AND Educators

HTEC's Bargaining Platform, approved by Unit Members during the Winter 2025 voting
Higher Standards for High Tech - An Equity Project for Educators AND Students

Protecting Project-Based Learning
HTEC educators are committed to project-based learning and are dedicated to establishing contract language that allows it to thrive across our 16 schools. To achieve this:
  • Educators must have flexible planning time to ensure adequate preparation for equitable, engaging, and authentic projects.
  • Educators should be treated as professionals capable of managing their time and completing tasks off-campus when necessary for project-based learning.
  • Classroom caps must support hands-on, student-centered projects that ensure differentiated learning experiences for all students.
  • To put true meaning to the principle of collaborative design, HTH must establish a shared-governance structure that includes educators, staff and school administrators.
Qualified Teachers and Support for Every ClassroomHaving a qualified teacher and adequate support in every classroom ensures that all students receive equitable, high-quality education tailored to their diverse needs. To meet this standard:
  • All campuses must have sufficient staff and programs to ensure students are physically, emotionally, and mentally prepared for success.
  • Educators need consistent access to coaching and resources to maximize instruction in a project-based learning environment.
  • HTH must employ and retain highly trained personnel that can support the diverse needs of our students.
  • Staffing levels must align with the needs of students with IEPs, including their required support minutes, to ensure equitable access to the educational experience.
  • To foster teacher growth in the PBL setting, school administration must provide effective support and timely feedback to new educators.
Sustainable and Safe Working and Learning Conditions
  • Creating sustainable, safe, and supportive schools enables educators to teach effectively and students to learn in a setting that promotes a sense of success and well-being. To support this:
  • Educators must have the flexibility to use sick and personal days to care for ourselves and our families.
  • Educators deserve duty-free lunch breaks and restroom access so that we can perform at our best.
  • The work year should align with industry standards, especially regarding the number of non-instructional days.
  • HTH must prioritize safe schools that support the health and well-being of staff and students.
  • To retain experienced staff, HTH must offer child care options and provide flexibility for attending school events.
  • HTH should implement restorative justice and positive behavior systems across all campuses.
  • HTH must provide clear guidelines, sufficient lead time, and transparent communication regarding changes to room assignments, positions and teaching partners.
Equitable Pay and Benefits for Educators
  • HTEC educators recognize that fair compensation is essential for attracting and retaining quality educators and staff in America’s most expensive city. To achieve this:
  • HTH must enact a competitive wage scale that encourages educators to make a career at HTH, not just start one.
  • ​HTH must have a more equitable salary schedule that rewards professional experiences, advanced degrees, and certifications that enrich teaching and learning.
  • The PBL model demands significant time and effort outside regular classroom hours; educators should be compensated accordingly.
  • Stipends and hourly pay structures must align with industry standards and reward educators that contribute to the community beyond the classroom.
  • Educators deserve flexible payment options that help to manage the year-round challenge of living in San Diego.
  • Competitive benefits are essential to support the health and well-being of staff and their families while also ensuring HTH remains competitive with surrounding
During December 2024, bargaining input sessions were held at all sixteen HTH schools using a protocol crafted by our bargaining team:

HTEC Bargaining Team:

Chula Vista
Elementary - Trevor Vanorden
Middle/HS - Sabrina Dendle

North County
Elementary - Jenn Beazley
Middle/HS - Charley Jacob

Mesa
Middle/HS - Rose Reiken

Point Loma
Elementary - Jenny Merrill
Middle - Nathan Rosenberger
HS - Carli Stubbs

All schools 
At-Large - Jen Lewis
At-large - Ari Carrion​