Anaheim Union High School Dist. v. Am. Fed. of State and County and Municipal Employees CA4/3

The Anaheim Union High School District (the District) appeals from a judgment confirming an arbitration award in favor of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, Local 3112, AFL-CIO (the Union). The District contends the court was required to vacate the arbitration award because the arbitrator exceeded his powers when he ruled that the District violated the collective bargaining agreement between the parties by reducing the work year of certain classified employees without the consent of the Union and the employees. We affirm the judgment.

FACTS

The arbitrator’s opinion and award summarized the following undisputed facts. In 2009, the District decided to discontinue and reduce some classified employment positions due to the poor economy and an anticipated reduction in state funding for subsidized student meals. With respect to food service and transportation staffing, the District asked the Union to negotiate cost saving options. The Union replied with a willingness to discuss these subjects with the District but not to negotiate over any contractual provisions affecting hours of service or layoff. The District decided to eliminate summer…