Teamsters Local Union 653

06/03/2026

Teamsters Local Union 653 proudly recognizes Pride Month and stands in solidarity with LGBTQ+ workers and members.

We believe every worker deserves dignity, respect, and equal treatment in the workplace and in their community. Our union is strongest when it reflects the diversity of the people we represent and when we stand together against discrimination in all forms.

This month and every month, we reaffirm our commitment to fairness, inclusion, and protecting the rights of all workers.

Happy Pride Month from Teamsters Local Union 653!🏳️‍🌈✊

05/25/2026

Today, we honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Their courage, dedication, and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

On this Memorial Day, Teamsters Local 653 stands with gratitude and respect for all fallen heroes and their families.

May we never forget the true meaning of this day.🇺🇸

05/20/2026

🚍✊ First Student Teamsters have officially ratified a new 5-year National Master Agreement covering more than 22,000 school bus workers nationwide!

The agreement includes stronger protections, better benefits, improved retirement security, expanded leave protections, and safer working conditions.

This victory was made possible through unity, solidarity, and workers standing together. Congratulations to all First Student Teamsters! 💪

FIRST STUDENT TEAMSTERS RATIFY NATIONAL MASTER AGREEMENT

Teamsters at First Student have ratified a five-year contract, securing stronger protections, improved benefits, and safer working conditions impacting over 22,000 school bus workers across the country. The agreement was secured following a credible strike threat across 96 locals that would have impacted school bus routes nationwide.

“First Student Teamsters refused to settle for the status quo and fought for an agreement that delivers real improvements,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “Our members were ready to act and hold this company accountable if they failed to deliver the deal workers more than deserved. This contract strengthens job protections, improves retirement security, and will continue to raise the bar for school bus workers everywhere.”

The new agreement includes improvements such as increased access to health care benefits, new minimum standards for retirement contributions that will provide pension contributions for the first time to more than 10,000 workers, and expanded leave protections. It also creates a standalone article governing video and audio technology on buses, including protections against misuse of data and requirements for future national negotiations over changes to camera systems.

The First Student National Master Agreement impacts over 17,000 Teamsters and 5,000 additional school bus workers nationwide. As First Student Teamsters practice picketed at bus yards across the country, the Teamsters First Student National Negotiating Committee reached a tentative agreement just hours before the contract expired on March 31.

04/24/2026

We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Brother Paul Fawcett.

Paul proudly served as Vice President of Teamsters Local 653 and as a Trustee of the Teamsters Local 653 Health and Welfare Fund. Throughout his years of service, he was a dedicated leader, a strong advocate for our members, and a true union brother who always put others first.

His commitment, integrity, and passion for the labor movement left a lasting impact on our Local and on all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Paul’s family, friends, and all who knew him during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten.

Rest in peace, Brother Paul.

04/05/2026

Happy Easter Teamsters!

03/31/2026

First Student Teamsters Reach Tentative Agreement!

THANK YOU to Local 653 First Student bus drivers, monitors, and mechanics as you stood ready to strike if necessary.
Your leadership, your voice, and your willingness to STAND UP—in true solidarity—made the difference!

https://teamster.org/2026/03/over-17000-teamsters-avert-nationwide-strike-at-first-student-reach-tentative-agreement/

03/31/2026

Teamsters Local 653 Sisters

03/28/2026

shout-out to Teamsters Local 653 sister Jessica Clark, a fifth generation Teamster. Sister Clark is a 15-year-member and works for .
Jessica takes great pride in the work she does and represents what it means to be Teamster strong—hardworking, loyal, and proud of the union that generations of her family have helped build.

03/28/2026

03/10/2026

Recognizing and celebrating all the hardworking women of Local 653. The pride you take in what you do, the support you show one another, and the strength you demonstrate day in and day out are an inspiration to us all. Today and every day, we thank you for your hard work, your leadership, and the example you set for future generations of Teamsters.