Dear Colleagues,

Those that read the April 28 email, Legislative Operating Budget Proposal 2025-27, are aware that the state operating budget passed by the Legislature, did not contain any COLA (cost of living adjustment) increases for our WPEA classified staff members. Executive Cabinet is beyond disappointed by this decision and understands the devastating economic impacts this has on our classified staff. We recognize that this decision places our classified staff further behind in pay as the cost of living continues to rise. Highline College values the hard work that our classified staff do to support faculty, administration, and most importantly our students.

Internally, Highline College and our Highline classified staff reached an agreement on the 2025-27 CBA (collective bargaining agreement) in early April with hopes that the COLA would be fully funded by the legislature. While Highline College does not have the authority to grant COLAs, Executive Cabinet is fully committed to providing each classified staff member with the $1,200 contract incentive, as well as the additional personal days we agreed upon during our local negotiations. We will continue to support our classified staff by advocating with local legislators to remedy the situation. We also strongly encourage all staff and faculty to reach out to your respective representatives to make your voice heard.

To our classified staff – please know that we hear you and stand with you. We are committed to supporting all members of our valued community to the best of our ability during these very challenging times.

In solidarity,

Highline College Executive Cabinet

Danielle, Jamilyn, John, Josh, Maribel, Melanie, Michael, Rolita and Tim