Chad Baugher

Grievance Secretary

About Me

Proven. Certified. Relentless. I believe representation isn’t about promises—it’s about results.

This role demands more than good intentions; it requires expertise, preparation, and the willingness to take decisive action when it matters most. I don’t wait for problems to escalate into grievances—I work to resolve issues early. But when escalation is necessary, I see cases through to the end and fight to secure real outcomes for our members.

I bring both formal training and real-world experience to this work. As a Cornell University–trained and certified AFT negotiator and a member of the 2023–2026 Contract Negotiations Team, I’ve been directly involved in shaping and enforcing the agreements that protect our members. I don’t just understand the contract—I know how to apply it strategically to defend member rights and hold the district accountable.

My approach is hands-on and results-driven. I resolve disputes at the lowest level whenever possible, but I am fully prepared to represent members throughout the entire grievance process—from intake to resolution, including complex cases and arbitration considerations. I maintain strong systems for tracking outcomes, ensure transparency throughout the process, and serve as a reliable resource for members navigating difficult situations. I also believe in strengthening our union from within by training and mentoring site representatives, so every member has access to informed, confident support.

Throughout my work, I’ve taken on challenging cases across the district—often the ones others avoid—and approached them prepared, focused, and ready to advocate. I’ve stood up to district leadership when necessary and delivered meaningful results for the members I represent. Because at the end of the day, this work isn’t about recognition—it’s about enforcement, protection, and delivering under pressure.

Strong contracts mean nothing without strong enforcement. I represent members fully—every time.