Update on Ongoing Faculty Contract Negotiations

Dear Bellevue College Community,

As we continue the process of bargaining a new contract with our faculty union, BCAHE, we want to share an update to keep the campus informed on where things stand and the progress that has been made.

We appreciate the time and effort that both bargaining teams have committed to this work. Together, we have made meaningful progress at the table, reaching tentative agreements on several important issues. In fact, much of the agreement has already been negotiated, including several important areas:

• Excluding summer quarter from the moonlight standards
• College in the High School faculty compensation schedule
• Clarified and strengthened avenues for faculty consultation and input into changes in instructional program configuration

Three complex issues remain unresolved: program chair allocations, a structure for faculty-led professional development currently provided by Faculty Commons, and total compensation. Reaching agreement on these remaining issues continues to be our top priority.

As President May shared in a previous message, both parties agreed to enter mediation in early September, which is a common step in contract negotiations where a neutral mediator helps both teams work toward an agreement. Following two sessions in which proposals were discussed and exchanged, negotiations paused while BCAHE took additional time before coming back to the table. Both parties have now agreed to resume mediation, and we look forward to meeting again on November 19, 2026.

We also want to provide clarity on a few key points you may have questions about.

Continuation of existing employment terms: Although the 2024–2026 faculty contract expired on August 31, 2026, and a new agreement has not yet been reached, Bellevue College continues to follow the applicable terms and conditions of the previous contract. This allows faculty to continue working under established employment conditions while the college and BCAHE work toward a new agreement through negotiations and mediation.

Faculty compensation increase: Effective September 1, 2026, Bellevue College implemented the 2.6% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) authorized by the Washington State Legislature. The total cost of this increase was approximately $1,301,489, with the state providing $865,656 (67%) and Bellevue College contributing $435,833 (33%) to ensure faculty received the full increase.

Collective bargaining is complex and rarely follows a straight line. This round of negotiations has been particularly challenging given the financial realities facing Bellevue College, including rising operating costs and uncertainty about future state funding. Bellevue College remains committed to bargaining in good faith and reaching an agreement that supports our faculty, reflects our institutional values, and ensures we can continue providing a high-quality educational experience for our students.

Sincerely,

Frances Dujon-Reynolds

Vice President, Human Resources

David Wain Coon, Ed.D.

Acting President