Durham School Services calls on bus drivers union to honor agreed‑upon negotiation dates, avoid strike

In response to the Teamsters Local 959, which represents the school bus drivers in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District, announcing its intention to strike on Monday, March 2, Durham School Services (DSS) released a statement saying that accepted formal negotiation dates of March 17 and 18 with a mediator present, which had been proposed by the Union.

DSS says they are “fully prepared to negotiate” with the Union and that a work stoppage before the scheduled bargaining sessions, and before the process is complete would only serve to disrupt families and repeat the harm caused by the 2023 strike.

“A strike before those dates is both unnecessary and disruptive, especially when the parties were already scheduled to meet and finalize an agreement.”

DSS says it has bargained in good faith since June 2025 and has presented a strong, competitive contract that includes:

-Wage increases raising the starting hourly rate from $24.73 to $30.00 in the next couple of years

-Higher pay for senior drivers

-Continuing to cover 75% of healthcare premiums

“We have already agreed on multiple requests from the Teamsters,” the statement says. “Despite this, the Teamsters are demanding significantly more pay, increased Company health‑care contributions, guaranteed pay for hours not worked, and lifetime pension benefits for part‑time employees.”

DSS says that Teamsters have also proposed language limiting disciplinary action in certain circumstances involving student contact.

Much like the Teamsters are asking community members to speak to their school district representatives, DSS is also encouraging community members to speak with Teamsters representatives to why they are choosing to strike.

Durham says they will continue to bargain and will take every lawful step to prevent an avoidable strike. “Our focus remains on reaching a fair agreement and maintaining uninterrupted service for the families we proudly serve.”

This is a developing story.