Negotiator of the Year Derek Jindra was honored during Negotiators’ Symposium. From left, Kirk Skorpanich, assistant superintendent HR, Perris UHSD; Christi Barrett, superintendent, Hemet USD; Jindra, assistant superintendent of HR, Hemet USD; Heather Williams, assistant superintendent Personnel Services, Riverside COE; Lisa Horne, assistant superintendent HR, Kings COE; and Mark Garner, director of HR, Hemet USD.
Jindra honored as Negotiator of the Year at Symposium
January 29, 2024
Negotiating teams from throughout the state attended ACSA’s 2024 Negotiators’ Symposium, held at Mission Bay Resort in San Diego Jan. 17-19.
It was the highest attended Negotiators’ Symposium ever with 370 attendees who gathered to learn the latest laws and best practices related to labor negotiations.
Attendees also heard powerful and informative keynotes from Dr. Joe Sanfelippo, nationally recognized school leader and former superintendent of the Fall Creek School District in Wisconsin; John Gray, president and CEO of School Services of California; and Karen Rezendes, managing partner with Lozano Smith.
ACSA also bestowed an award for Negotiator of the Year to Derek Jindra, Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources in Hemet USD.
Jindra was recognized for his involvement in his ACSA charter and ACSA professional development, including Personnel Institute and ACSA’s Personnel and Principals Academies. His commitment to professional growth and leadership directly contributes to the continuous improvement of HR practices within the district and the entire educational community.
As lead negotiator for his district, Jindra has not only resolved conflicts but has also laid the foundation for a collaborative culture that prioritizes transparency and genuine collaboration with labor partners. His negotiating efforts have resulted in built-in teacher collaboration time, the addition of CTE teachers to the salary schedule and removal of a years-of-service cap for new certificated staff, among many other accomplishments.
“Dr. Jindra approaches negotiations with a strategic mindset, always seeking win-win solutions that prioritize the best interests of both parties,” said Hemet USD Superintendent Christi Barrett, in a letter supporting Jindra’s nomination. “His adept communication, keen understanding of diverse perspectives, and collaborative approach have resulted in successful outcomes that contribute to a positive working environment within the district. His commitment to fairness, coupled with his ability to find common ground, makes him an invaluable asset to the Hemet Unified School District.”
Negotiating team leaders were asked to engage with their fellow attendees during a session at Negotiators’ Symposium, which was held in San Diego Jan. 17-19.
The symposium was held at Mission Bay Resort in San Diego.
Attendees interact during a session.
Keynote Dr. Joe Sanfelippo.