Long Beach Community College District to Reach Settlement with Adjuncts

The Long Beach Community College District recently announced that it will pay $18 million to resolve a lawsuit filed by adjunct professors. This class action lawsuit contested that part-time professors at the district were not adequately compensated for the additional hours spent working beyond the classroom setting, such as grading assignments, lesson planning, and meeting with students.

According to a statement provided by Stacey Toda, a representative for the district, resolving this legal matter is a strategic decision that will help the district avoid prolonged litigation and effectively manage potential risks associated with the case. This approach aligns with common practices observed in public higher education institutions.

Although the district’s board approved the settlement agreement in the previous month, it still requires final approval from Judge Stuart Rice, who is presiding over the lawsuit. A hearing date has been set for July, and Judge Rice appears inclined to support the agreement. Previously, Judge Rice had ruled in favor of adjunct professors, emphasizing that they should be compensated for their work outside of scheduled class hours. He also pointed out numerous deficiencies in the district’s counterarguments. However, the ruling was temporarily put on hold pending further legal proceedings.

The proposed settlement, as detailed by Eileen B. Goldsmith, the attorney representing the plaintiffs, will result in over 1,400 adjunct professors receiving approximately $11,000 each as part of the resolution. This financial compensation aims to appropriately reimburse adjunct professors for the extra hours and workload they invest in their teaching responsibilities.

This positive turn of events underscores the importance of fair compensation for adjunct faculty members at educational institutions. It emphasizes the need for recognizing and valuing the contributions of part-time professors who play a crucial role in the academic success of students. By reaching a financial settlement that acknowledges the efforts of adjunct professors, the Long Beach Community College District is taking a step towards fostering a more equitable and supportive environment for all educators within its institution.

This development serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by adjunct professors in the realm of higher education. It highlights the necessity of advocating for fair compensation and proper acknowledgment of the essential role adjunct faculty members play in shaping the educational experiences of students. As this settlement moves forward for final approval, it symbolizes a significant milestone in addressing the grievances of adjunct professors and ensuring a more just and equitable teaching environment within the Long Beach Community College District.