08/09/2021
Hi everyone,
Your negotiations team met with the district last week and again today and we want to update you with what's going on. We still have a couple of things to finish up and are meeting again on Monday the 16th.
On behalf of the negotiations team and the executive board of TAL, have an amazing first day of school tomorrow!
Sincerely,
Gina Whipple, TAL President and Negotiations Team
Bill Clark, TAL Vice President and Negotiations Team
Amy Keller, TAL Treasurer
Wendy Perry, TAL Secretary and Negotiations Team
Kym Hickman, Negotiations Chair
Marshall Zaun, Negotiations Team
Hi everyone,
Your negotiations team met with the district last week and again today and we want to update you with what's going on. We still have a couple of things to finish up and are meeting again on Monday the 16th.
On behalf of the negotiations team and the executive board of TAL, have an amazing first day of school tomorrow!
Sincerely,
Gina Whipple, TAL President and Negotiations Team
Bill Clark, TAL Vice President and Negotiations Team
Amy Keller, TAL Treasurer
Wendy Perry, TAL Secretary and Negotiations Team
Kym Hickman, Negotiations Chair
Marshall Zaun, Negotiations Team
06/2021
TAL Members,
As we wind down this week and look forward to a much earned break, please reflect on all that we have been through this last (almost) 2 years.
ENJOY your time away from school and engage in activities that you enjoy. Do not ever feel guilty for taking care of yourself and completing only your job. We are not responsible for the teacher/staff/sub shortage.
We are all going above and beyond to support our students every single day. You deserve to be cared for and considered as well- and don’t ever let anyone make you feel otherwise.
In UNITY always!✊🏻❤️
~Whip
TAL Members,
As we wind down this week and look forward to a much earned break, please reflect on all that we have been through this last (almost) 2 years.
ENJOY your time away from school and engage in activities that you enjoy. Do not ever feel guilty for taking care of yourself and completing only your job. We are not responsible for the teacher/staff/sub shortage.
We are all going above and beyond to support our students every single day. You deserve to be cared for and considered as well- and don’t ever let anyone make you feel otherwise.
In UNITY always!✊🏻❤️
~Whip
03/17/2021
Dear Members,
At the general meeting, Kym talked about discussing with your admin if you had a special situation regarding the 2 paid work days. Many people are trying to switch and it's become problematic. Therefore, we have to follow what the MOU says. You must choose 1 set of 2 days, or 1 day of the 2 days, or none at all.
We had to bargain hard to get the 2 sets of dates; the district originally wanted only one set. So we feel we are lucky to have a choice. No other local districts were given daily rate for 2 prep days!
The MOU has been ratified due to a majority vote, but you can still vote if you would like to. The form is on our website (talnewsonline.org) and is open until tonight at 11:59 PM.
Thank you for your support!
Kym Hickman, Negotiations Chair
Gina Whipple, TAL President
Wendy Perry, TAL Secretary and Negotiations Team
Bill Clark, TAL Vice President and Negotiations Team
Marshall Zaun, Negotiations Team
Dear Members,
At the general meeting, Kym talked about discussing with your admin if you had a special situation regarding the 2 paid work days. Many people are trying to switch and it's become problematic. Therefore, we have to follow what the MOU says. You must choose 1 set of 2 days, or 1 day of the 2 days, or none at all.
We had to bargain hard to get the 2 sets of dates; the district originally wanted only one set. So we feel we are lucky to have a choice. No other local districts were given daily rate for 2 prep days!
The MOU has been ratified due to a majority vote, but you can still vote if you would like to. The form is on our website (talnewsonline.org) and is open until tonight at 11:59 PM.
Thank you for your support!
Kym Hickman, Negotiations Chair
Gina Whipple, TAL President
Wendy Perry, TAL Secretary and Negotiations Team
Bill Clark, TAL Vice President and Negotiations Team
Marshall Zaun, Negotiations Team
March 8, 2021
Good evening members,
The Negotiations Team met with the District again today to continue developing an MOU for a safe return to in-person instruction. We had hoped to be done today, however, there are still some important issues that still need to be addressed. We are happy to say that a lot of progress was made on issues such as: date of return, safety, daily schedule, time for teacher prep to set up classrooms, pay issues, and guidelines for testing.
We will meet again with the District on Thursday afternoon in an attempt to resolve outstanding issues and hopefully complete our negotiations as it applies to elementary, 6th grade middle school and SDC. Targeted groups will return after spring break (with substitute teachers), and a scheduled staggered return to instruction will begin on April 5 with TK-K, both general ed and SDC.
Upon completion of the MOU, TAL will hold a virtual general meeting for all bargaining unit members to discuss the provisions.
Kym Hickman
Bill Clark
Marshall Zaun
Wendy Perry
Good evening members,
The Negotiations Team met with the District again today to continue developing an MOU for a safe return to in-person instruction. We had hoped to be done today, however, there are still some important issues that still need to be addressed. We are happy to say that a lot of progress was made on issues such as: date of return, safety, daily schedule, time for teacher prep to set up classrooms, pay issues, and guidelines for testing.
We will meet again with the District on Thursday afternoon in an attempt to resolve outstanding issues and hopefully complete our negotiations as it applies to elementary, 6th grade middle school and SDC. Targeted groups will return after spring break (with substitute teachers), and a scheduled staggered return to instruction will begin on April 5 with TK-K, both general ed and SDC.
Upon completion of the MOU, TAL will hold a virtual general meeting for all bargaining unit members to discuss the provisions.
Kym Hickman
Bill Clark
Marshall Zaun
Wendy Perry
|
March 7, 2021
I feel compelled to address the false statements made by Mr. Giles on social media stating that we refuse to return to our classrooms. Aside from the divisive nature of the comments, they are untrue. As the president of TAL, I have directed our Negotiations team to demand safe working conditions and safe learning conditions for staff and students, respectively. It seems like an obvious thing that everyone would support. After all, we are charged with safeguarding and educating children- our most precious resource. Surprisingly, it has been a battle. The district’s team- who represent the board, don’t agree that we need to establish more than the minimum safety requirements. Given the photos of unmasked children and adults by Mr. Giles, it appears that he is comfortable ignoring the recommendations of the CDC to continue masking and practicing social distance. I am not comfortable with this. It creates an unnecessary risk to my members and my students- both of whom I am charged with protecting. In Unity as always! ~Whip |
|
March 3, 2021
Dear Members,
The Negotiations Team met with the district again today. We have made progress on some issues. However, we have not reached agreement on several important points. We will be meeting again on Monday, March 8 and we believe that negotiations will be concluded at that time.
The guidelines from the state of California, LACDPH and CDPH have changed to the point where a return to in-person instruction is inevitable. Safety of our students, families, and our members remain our top priority. We are negotiating for robust safety measures and procedures, as well as a reasonable schedule of instruction.
The return to in-person instruction would be implemented through a phased-in approach. While in the purple tier, the grade levels to return first would be TK-2 general ed. and TK- 5 SDC. Targeted groups in grades 3- 6 would also return with support provided by substitute teachers. Targeted groups include foster, homeless, and students who are not engaging in remote learning.
Grades 3-6 general ed. would return to in-person learning once L.A. County has been in the red tier for one week. This return would include 6th grade at the middle school level. ECE, 7th and 8th grades would remain virtual for the remainder of the 20/21 school year.
No one would be returning to in-person instruction before spring break.
We will continue to communicate with you when we have concrete information. You will be voting on the proposed MOU when it is finalized.
TAL Negotiations Team
Kym Hickman
Bill Clark
Marshall Zaun
Wendy Perry
Dear Members,
The Negotiations Team met with the district again today. We have made progress on some issues. However, we have not reached agreement on several important points. We will be meeting again on Monday, March 8 and we believe that negotiations will be concluded at that time.
The guidelines from the state of California, LACDPH and CDPH have changed to the point where a return to in-person instruction is inevitable. Safety of our students, families, and our members remain our top priority. We are negotiating for robust safety measures and procedures, as well as a reasonable schedule of instruction.
The return to in-person instruction would be implemented through a phased-in approach. While in the purple tier, the grade levels to return first would be TK-2 general ed. and TK- 5 SDC. Targeted groups in grades 3- 6 would also return with support provided by substitute teachers. Targeted groups include foster, homeless, and students who are not engaging in remote learning.
Grades 3-6 general ed. would return to in-person learning once L.A. County has been in the red tier for one week. This return would include 6th grade at the middle school level. ECE, 7th and 8th grades would remain virtual for the remainder of the 20/21 school year.
No one would be returning to in-person instruction before spring break.
We will continue to communicate with you when we have concrete information. You will be voting on the proposed MOU when it is finalized.
TAL Negotiations Team
Kym Hickman
Bill Clark
Marshall Zaun
Wendy Perry
|
02/24/2021
Dear TAL Members, The Negotiations Team met with the district today regarding the procedures that must be in place to ensure the safe return of staff and students. The safety concerns discussed included plexiglass shields, HEPA filters, portable sinks, cleaning of bathrooms, classrooms, and common areas, temperature checks, vaccinations, and COVID testing. In addition, we asked to see the individual site plans for the management of students who refuse to wear masks, won't stay in their seats, procedures for arrival and dismissal, isolation room management and location, protocol for students who are not picked up after school, as well as other concerns. The district responded to these concerns by citing LA County Department of Public Health guidelines, which say:
(continued at right) |
(continued from left)
Sick leave was discussed, and at this point the district's position is that if someone is exposed to COVID or contracts the virus, they will have to file a workman’s compensation claim. We asked the district for 3 days to set up our classrooms. At this point, they are offering 1 day in the classroom and 1 day of in-service on safety procedures. The district proposal is a phased-in approach that starts with TK-K on April 5. First grade and TK-6 SDC mild/ moderate would return on April 12. Second grade and TK-6 SDC moderate/severe would return on April 19. Grades 3-6 targeted would return on March 29 (with subs). Targeted students are foster, homeless, and students who are not successful in virtual learning. General ed grades 3-8 would return as flexibility is made available by LACDPH. Teachers will be given one week notification if there are changes to their teaching assignment. At this point, we have not agreed to any of the above. In addition, the district is proposing teacher-led live in-person instruction for all grades TK-6 from 8:30-11:00 and lunch from 11:00-11:50. In the afternoon, TK-K would teach online 11:55-1:45, with an intervention block from 1:45-2:55. This intervention block would contain the same responsibilities we have now during that time. First-sixth grades would teach online from 11:55-2:00, with an intervention block from 2:00-2:55, again with the same responsibilities we have now during that time. Currently, there is no district plan for middle school (7/8). We have not agreed to the district TK-6 In-Person/Virtual Learning Proposal. At this time, the district has very limited information as to how many students will be coming back. We have over 14,000 students in our district, and only 800 families took the district survey. Only 50% of those who responded indicated a desire to return. The team feels it is important that you understand what the district is proposing at this time. As we went through Survey #10 results, we know that there are members who wish to return in person and those that are more comfortable remaining virtual. Of the members who responded to our latest survey, 16% are willing to return now. In an effort to respect the wishes of all of our members, we are sending out another survey to determine how we will proceed with our counter-proposal. We strongly urge all members to take this survey. It will be posted soon on TalNewsOnline.org, the TAL website. We will be presenting the district with our counter-proposal next Wednesday, March 3. Kym Hickman, chair Bill Clark Marshall Zaun Wendy Perry |
February 17, 2021
Good evening TAL Members,
Things did not go as planned today during Negotiations. We were not treated like family or respected as professionals.
We will be meeting with the district again on Wednesday, February 24 for an all-day session of negotiations.
Please respond to the latest survey on the TAL website (talnewsonline.org). It is survey #9.
Please know that I will represent and defend all members.
In Unity,
Whip
Good evening TAL Members,
Things did not go as planned today during Negotiations. We were not treated like family or respected as professionals.
We will be meeting with the district again on Wednesday, February 24 for an all-day session of negotiations.
Please respond to the latest survey on the TAL website (talnewsonline.org). It is survey #9.
Please know that I will represent and defend all members.
In Unity,
Whip
February 10, 2021
Dear TAL Members,
Your TAL negotiations team met with the district today. Our team showed up prepared to have a meaningful conversation in order to provide a safe and reasonable solution for navigating through this pandemic. We expected that at the conclusion of today’s meeting we would be able to provide assurance and lessen anxiety for our members regarding the remainder of the school year 20/21.
We recommended extending the MOU at least through spring break.
The district, on the other hand, did not come to this meeting with the authority to bargain.
We will meet again on February 17, 2021. Please know that we are working hard for you, your family, our students, and our community. As you know, the current MOU is expiring on February 28, 2021.
Sincerely,
Kym Hickman
Bill Clark
Marshall Zaun
Wendy Perry
Dear TAL Members,
Your TAL negotiations team met with the district today. Our team showed up prepared to have a meaningful conversation in order to provide a safe and reasonable solution for navigating through this pandemic. We expected that at the conclusion of today’s meeting we would be able to provide assurance and lessen anxiety for our members regarding the remainder of the school year 20/21.
We recommended extending the MOU at least through spring break.
The district, on the other hand, did not come to this meeting with the authority to bargain.
We will meet again on February 17, 2021. Please know that we are working hard for you, your family, our students, and our community. As you know, the current MOU is expiring on February 28, 2021.
Sincerely,
Kym Hickman
Bill Clark
Marshall Zaun
Wendy Perry
|
07/27/2020:
Good evening TAL members, This has been and continues to be an arduous task. We are NOT finished with Negotiations. I always want to get information to you as soon as possible. Please keep in mind that the team and I are mentally and physically exhausted. Read the information thoroughly and take some time to process. If it isn’t on the list, we haven’t finished discussing and don’t have a solid agreement. This is clearly not our optimal return. We must adapt to the situation and meet the needs of our students and our own families. We are doing all that we can to ensure a smooth transition to distance learning. We have all learned a lot since March: what worked and what didn’t. Let’s keep an open mind and positive outlook as we embark on this new reality that is education. In UNITY, Whip |
|
07/14/2020:
Thank you TAL members, parents, and yes- STUDENTS who logged into the LSD board meeting! There has been a lot of work, stress, frustration, and anxiety involved in putting this plan together. I appreciate your willingness to take an interest and support all of us. It takes courage to make difficult decisions. I look forward to seeing my students next month- even if it is virtually. More so, I hope to see them in my classroom in January! We will get through this together!
In UNITY!
Whip
Thank you TAL members, parents, and yes- STUDENTS who logged into the LSD board meeting! There has been a lot of work, stress, frustration, and anxiety involved in putting this plan together. I appreciate your willingness to take an interest and support all of us. It takes courage to make difficult decisions. I look forward to seeing my students next month- even if it is virtually. More so, I hope to see them in my classroom in January! We will get through this together!
In UNITY!
Whip
07/08/2020:
The situation we are currently in is not optimal— we are professionals and must adjust to this crisis. I have tried to ease the burden for all of you by working on this every day and only giving updates when there is new information; I want you to enjoy your break as much as possible.
First of all, I created that schedule along with Amy Keller. We had many factors to consider and had teachers’ and students’ best interests at the forefront. This schedule is intended for teachers who are able to return to school in a physical capacity. Also keep in mind there is a real possibility that we will begin the year virtually. This schedule supports 15 students per block to account for social distancing. We have requirements to meet in order to receive funding and that is foundational and cannot be ignored. Amy and I were sure to include all of our members, including PE and Elective teachers, those with medical limitations, Speech, RSP, Sped, Coaches, and all grades TK-8. That schedule includes lunch and a prep each day, as well as time to connect with students and parents. You will also notice that Pink Tuesdays are not included. You’re welcome.
Please remember that we can only control things to a certain extent. CSEA will sanitize rooms and restrooms. They will negotiate their own conditions to return. Many questions in regards to issues surrounding cleanliness should be brought to the Board meeting at 5pm this Tuesday, the 14th.
We will get through this ordeal. Please take some time to think about our upcoming year. I will try to focus on how exciting it will be meeting my new class of students.
In UNITY as always,
Whip
The situation we are currently in is not optimal— we are professionals and must adjust to this crisis. I have tried to ease the burden for all of you by working on this every day and only giving updates when there is new information; I want you to enjoy your break as much as possible.
First of all, I created that schedule along with Amy Keller. We had many factors to consider and had teachers’ and students’ best interests at the forefront. This schedule is intended for teachers who are able to return to school in a physical capacity. Also keep in mind there is a real possibility that we will begin the year virtually. This schedule supports 15 students per block to account for social distancing. We have requirements to meet in order to receive funding and that is foundational and cannot be ignored. Amy and I were sure to include all of our members, including PE and Elective teachers, those with medical limitations, Speech, RSP, Sped, Coaches, and all grades TK-8. That schedule includes lunch and a prep each day, as well as time to connect with students and parents. You will also notice that Pink Tuesdays are not included. You’re welcome.
Please remember that we can only control things to a certain extent. CSEA will sanitize rooms and restrooms. They will negotiate their own conditions to return. Many questions in regards to issues surrounding cleanliness should be brought to the Board meeting at 5pm this Tuesday, the 14th.
We will get through this ordeal. Please take some time to think about our upcoming year. I will try to focus on how exciting it will be meeting my new class of students.
In UNITY as always,
Whip
|
06/01/2020:
As this extraordinary school year draws to a close, I want to take some time to thank you all for the various things you have done to support TAL as an organization, and me as your president and friend. It’s lonely sometimes, and I’m continually amazed by your generosity and willingness to help when I have needed it. This is my favorite time of year because I reflect on all of our successes and recognize members for helping us stand together. So many of you have stepped up and completed important work on behalf of your colleagues and the district. I wanted to honor and recognize all 102 teachers, coaches, and district office personnel for your efforts on the Remote Learning Team. Several of you have taken brave steps to serve in leadership positions on behalf of TAL, the High Desert Service Center, and CTA. I believe we see the most personal growth when we immerse ourselves in new situations. Although we are venturing into unknown territory, we will get through it— together. I’m proud to serve as your president. In Unity, Whip✊🏻 |
|
04/05/20:
TAL members,
When we return to school tomorrow, we will be entering our new normal. At least for the next three months.
I fully expect there will be bumps in the road. I encourage everyone to embrace them, learn from them, and move on. You all know what they say about even the best laid plans.
Our kids need us to be strong and continue to have high expectations of them. They also need us to understand that their circumstances most likely don’t mirror ours.
We must encourage them to stay connected and do what they can. While reviewing the standards is important, I want my students to know that they are learning bigger, more relevant lessons about how the world works. I want them to see the good, selfless things that so many are doing. I want them to understand that even though they are young, they can and will make a difference if they maintain a positive mindset.
I am an activist and an advocate and have ALWAYS encouraged them to support a cause for which they are impassioned. I look forward to hearing about their view of what is happening. We are living what will be our and their history.
You all know how to reach me; I am here for you as I always am. Allow yourself and others grace in this transition period.
Take care of yourselves, your families, your students, and each other❤️
In UNITY,
Whip✊🏻
TAL members,
When we return to school tomorrow, we will be entering our new normal. At least for the next three months.
I fully expect there will be bumps in the road. I encourage everyone to embrace them, learn from them, and move on. You all know what they say about even the best laid plans.
Our kids need us to be strong and continue to have high expectations of them. They also need us to understand that their circumstances most likely don’t mirror ours.
We must encourage them to stay connected and do what they can. While reviewing the standards is important, I want my students to know that they are learning bigger, more relevant lessons about how the world works. I want them to see the good, selfless things that so many are doing. I want them to understand that even though they are young, they can and will make a difference if they maintain a positive mindset.
I am an activist and an advocate and have ALWAYS encouraged them to support a cause for which they are impassioned. I look forward to hearing about their view of what is happening. We are living what will be our and their history.
You all know how to reach me; I am here for you as I always am. Allow yourself and others grace in this transition period.
Take care of yourselves, your families, your students, and each other❤️
In UNITY,
Whip✊🏻
03/31/20:
A few informational items:
If you had planned to miss a day March 16-20, and it was entered into Aesop, your purpose was manually changed to School Business and you were NOT charged. It remains on your Aesop account for reconciliation as subs needed to be paid.
If you haven’t signed up for Direct Deposit yet, this may be a good time to consider doing so. The plan for those not currently utilizing Direct Deposit, is to mail checks, but that means the availability of funds could be delayed . If you would like to sign up, please email Laura Lott in Payroll. She will guide you through the process.
Enjoy the next few days!
In UNITY as always,
Whip✊🏻
A few informational items:
If you had planned to miss a day March 16-20, and it was entered into Aesop, your purpose was manually changed to School Business and you were NOT charged. It remains on your Aesop account for reconciliation as subs needed to be paid.
If you haven’t signed up for Direct Deposit yet, this may be a good time to consider doing so. The plan for those not currently utilizing Direct Deposit, is to mail checks, but that means the availability of funds could be delayed . If you would like to sign up, please email Laura Lott in Payroll. She will guide you through the process.
Enjoy the next few days!
In UNITY as always,
Whip✊🏻
03/30/2020:
Good afternoon TAL members,
My hope is that all of you are finding some time to relax and enjoy your family during this unexpected and exceptional Spring Break.
The elected Executive Board and appointed teams continued to advocate for the members last week, despite school closure. To be clear, our duties within TAL are separate from our responsibilities as teachers. For the first time ever, our Negotiations team meet with the district via virtual conference. We agreed to take this step as a way to expedite the process and reach an agreement that will be most beneficial for members.
We have reached a tentative agreement.
What typically happens after the team reaches a tentative agreement is I would call a meeting of the general membership (that means everyone) to share the TA and answer any questions. That is impossible at this time. Even trying to manage a conference call with 700 people is unreasonable.
Next, we would vote on whether or not to approve the agreement. Our traditional protocol is not an option, given our current situation. Even if we were set up to hold an electronic vote, it would be difficult. We MAY be able to set up electronic voting, but it would eat up precious time and financial resources. I don’t have any assurance that voting rosters are correct because the people assigned to confirm them are under the same Stay at Home order that we all are. And, I think you all have experienced that our voting rosters typically are unreliable in an optimal situation.
Time is also a concern. The tentative agreement must be shared with and approved by LACOE before moving to the board for final approval.
We are two weeks away from our next board meeting, which requires an item to be placed no later than the Monday preceding the following week’s Tuesday board meeting.
Even if we were set up to vote online, I cannot guarantee that we could meet that timeline.
Given our current crisis, the Executive Board has voted to amend the Standing Rules by Adding a new section entitled: SPECIAL SITUATIONS: State or National Emergency. It reads as follows: “In the event of a declared State or National Emergency, when a meeting of the General Membership or of the Representative Council is not possible due to isolation, the Executive Board will be empowered to make decisions on their behalf.”
While this section will remain in the Standing rules, it will only be exercised under the circumstances therein. Meaning, once we are out of isolation and are able to resume our normal procedures, we will.
While the main purpose for this has been outlined above, there is another important concern that I have to consider: retirees. It takes time to process all of this. I want to be certain that if this happens to be one of their highest paid years, it is official by the end of the school year.
The salary increase, retroactive increase, and off-scale money will be a small comfort to all members in this time of uncertainty.
My hope is that the membership will support me in this decision. I do have the support of CTA. My primary goal is to ALWAYS do the best for TAL and our members. I have never done anything like this and would never CONSIDER such a profound move in a typical situation.
Another option would be to wait this out and hold a traditional vote upon our return. I don’t believe that is the prudent thing to do, given the fluidity of this ordeal.
I welcome comments and questions, but would like you to know that our Negotiations team has worked incredibly hard to finalize this agreement on our behalf, so please, respond civilly if you disagree with my decision.
The file was too large to post here so please go to TALnewsonline.org to view the tentative agreement.
Please leave any comments below.
In UNITY as always,
Whip
Good afternoon TAL members,
My hope is that all of you are finding some time to relax and enjoy your family during this unexpected and exceptional Spring Break.
The elected Executive Board and appointed teams continued to advocate for the members last week, despite school closure. To be clear, our duties within TAL are separate from our responsibilities as teachers. For the first time ever, our Negotiations team meet with the district via virtual conference. We agreed to take this step as a way to expedite the process and reach an agreement that will be most beneficial for members.
We have reached a tentative agreement.
What typically happens after the team reaches a tentative agreement is I would call a meeting of the general membership (that means everyone) to share the TA and answer any questions. That is impossible at this time. Even trying to manage a conference call with 700 people is unreasonable.
Next, we would vote on whether or not to approve the agreement. Our traditional protocol is not an option, given our current situation. Even if we were set up to hold an electronic vote, it would be difficult. We MAY be able to set up electronic voting, but it would eat up precious time and financial resources. I don’t have any assurance that voting rosters are correct because the people assigned to confirm them are under the same Stay at Home order that we all are. And, I think you all have experienced that our voting rosters typically are unreliable in an optimal situation.
Time is also a concern. The tentative agreement must be shared with and approved by LACOE before moving to the board for final approval.
We are two weeks away from our next board meeting, which requires an item to be placed no later than the Monday preceding the following week’s Tuesday board meeting.
Even if we were set up to vote online, I cannot guarantee that we could meet that timeline.
Given our current crisis, the Executive Board has voted to amend the Standing Rules by Adding a new section entitled: SPECIAL SITUATIONS: State or National Emergency. It reads as follows: “In the event of a declared State or National Emergency, when a meeting of the General Membership or of the Representative Council is not possible due to isolation, the Executive Board will be empowered to make decisions on their behalf.”
While this section will remain in the Standing rules, it will only be exercised under the circumstances therein. Meaning, once we are out of isolation and are able to resume our normal procedures, we will.
While the main purpose for this has been outlined above, there is another important concern that I have to consider: retirees. It takes time to process all of this. I want to be certain that if this happens to be one of their highest paid years, it is official by the end of the school year.
The salary increase, retroactive increase, and off-scale money will be a small comfort to all members in this time of uncertainty.
My hope is that the membership will support me in this decision. I do have the support of CTA. My primary goal is to ALWAYS do the best for TAL and our members. I have never done anything like this and would never CONSIDER such a profound move in a typical situation.
Another option would be to wait this out and hold a traditional vote upon our return. I don’t believe that is the prudent thing to do, given the fluidity of this ordeal.
I welcome comments and questions, but would like you to know that our Negotiations team has worked incredibly hard to finalize this agreement on our behalf, so please, respond civilly if you disagree with my decision.
The file was too large to post here so please go to TALnewsonline.org to view the tentative agreement.
Please leave any comments below.
In UNITY as always,
Whip
03/20/2020:
Good evening TAL members,
I understand that this week has been difficult. All jokes and funny memes aside, I heard you when you shared how devastating it has been to lose contact with your students so suddenly. I can relate. I missed my first period class Friday because I was representing a member offsite. I feel awful about that. A week ago, we could not have predicted being thrust into this scenario.
I understand that the uncertainty is stressful. My hope is that all of us are able to spend the next two weeks (our regularly scheduled Spring Break) spending time with family and catching up on something we are unable to do during regular work days.
A few things I would like to repeat: there is no definitive date yet to submit progress reports; the plan for curriculum upon our return is a work in progress; and your STRS or PERS will not be impacted by the school closures.
Although we are scheduled to return to work April 6th after Spring Break, at this time it is uncertain as to whether we will be physically working on campus, or working remotely from home. There are many considerations including and not limited to: caring for our own children who are most likely distance learning as well. Some members have shared that someone close to them has a compromised immune system and may put them at risk if they were to return to campus. Clearly there is much to consider. Therefore, I will be coordinating with the district to plan for this new reality.
Many of you have asked bout the direction given my LACOE to extend school closures until May 5th. I have received that information from my CTA colleagues, but not from Dr. Bowers at this point. I expect additional information from her to be forthcoming.
I have answered every call, text, message, and email from members, colleagues, parents, and community members. My goal is to keep you informed. I will continue to post here and on our TAL website, TALnewsonline.org for anyone who is not a member of social media.
In UNITY,
Whip
Good evening TAL members,
I understand that this week has been difficult. All jokes and funny memes aside, I heard you when you shared how devastating it has been to lose contact with your students so suddenly. I can relate. I missed my first period class Friday because I was representing a member offsite. I feel awful about that. A week ago, we could not have predicted being thrust into this scenario.
I understand that the uncertainty is stressful. My hope is that all of us are able to spend the next two weeks (our regularly scheduled Spring Break) spending time with family and catching up on something we are unable to do during regular work days.
A few things I would like to repeat: there is no definitive date yet to submit progress reports; the plan for curriculum upon our return is a work in progress; and your STRS or PERS will not be impacted by the school closures.
Although we are scheduled to return to work April 6th after Spring Break, at this time it is uncertain as to whether we will be physically working on campus, or working remotely from home. There are many considerations including and not limited to: caring for our own children who are most likely distance learning as well. Some members have shared that someone close to them has a compromised immune system and may put them at risk if they were to return to campus. Clearly there is much to consider. Therefore, I will be coordinating with the district to plan for this new reality.
Many of you have asked bout the direction given my LACOE to extend school closures until May 5th. I have received that information from my CTA colleagues, but not from Dr. Bowers at this point. I expect additional information from her to be forthcoming.
I have answered every call, text, message, and email from members, colleagues, parents, and community members. My goal is to keep you informed. I will continue to post here and on our TAL website, TALnewsonline.org for anyone who is not a member of social media.
In UNITY,
Whip
03/17/2020:
I want to start my saying that I am so proud to be part of TAL. I am fortunate to work with an amazing group of professionals who stepped up without hesitation to support the students and teachers of Lancaster School District.
I've always heard that you find out who your friends are in a time of crisis. I'm overwhelmed by my friends and colleagues.
Although I cannot answer all of your questions, I want to share what I can at this point.
I, along with a few other teachers, met with Ed Services personnel today to work on a proactive plan to address the possibility of not returning to school for our usual curriculum delivery.
I am in the process of reaching out to grade levels and departments to seek input and create IS lessons for students.
Given the unique curriculum requirements of grade levels and departments, I have reached out to many of you to help plan lessons that students may complete remotely.
At this point in time, I am compiling a list of teachers that have agreed to participate, as well as team leaders who are willing to schedule virtual meetings via Meet. The plan is to create lessons for 2 weeks, and submit to be uploaded to the district website. To simplify and address equity, all students (in each grade level) will complete the same work.
The work by teachers will commence April 6 and not before then. I expect everyone to take their regularly scheduled Spring Break.
Lessons for students should be no longer than 3 hours per day total, which means for ALL subjects in a given day.
At this time, our income will NOT be interrupted, nor do I expect it to be.
I know you will have questions, but I assure you that this plan was made with students and teachers in mind.
Things are changing swiftly, and I am adapting as I gain new information.
Thank you for your support in this effort. It is truly unprecedented as you know.
My goal is to put everyone at ease and also be honest about what I know at this time.
In UNITY,
Whip
I want to start my saying that I am so proud to be part of TAL. I am fortunate to work with an amazing group of professionals who stepped up without hesitation to support the students and teachers of Lancaster School District.
I've always heard that you find out who your friends are in a time of crisis. I'm overwhelmed by my friends and colleagues.
Although I cannot answer all of your questions, I want to share what I can at this point.
I, along with a few other teachers, met with Ed Services personnel today to work on a proactive plan to address the possibility of not returning to school for our usual curriculum delivery.
I am in the process of reaching out to grade levels and departments to seek input and create IS lessons for students.
Given the unique curriculum requirements of grade levels and departments, I have reached out to many of you to help plan lessons that students may complete remotely.
At this point in time, I am compiling a list of teachers that have agreed to participate, as well as team leaders who are willing to schedule virtual meetings via Meet. The plan is to create lessons for 2 weeks, and submit to be uploaded to the district website. To simplify and address equity, all students (in each grade level) will complete the same work.
The work by teachers will commence April 6 and not before then. I expect everyone to take their regularly scheduled Spring Break.
Lessons for students should be no longer than 3 hours per day total, which means for ALL subjects in a given day.
At this time, our income will NOT be interrupted, nor do I expect it to be.
I know you will have questions, but I assure you that this plan was made with students and teachers in mind.
Things are changing swiftly, and I am adapting as I gain new information.
Thank you for your support in this effort. It is truly unprecedented as you know.
My goal is to put everyone at ease and also be honest about what I know at this time.
In UNITY,
Whip
03/14/2020:
TAL members,
I appreciate your patience and grace yesterday.
The ultimate decision to close schools was not an easy one, but I believe it was the best decision for employees and students alike. There have not been documented cases of the Coronavirus in our area; rather, closing schools is a preventative measure.
I want to assure you that I am In constant contact with Dr. Bowers and I will send out updates as they become available.
In addition, teachers are NOT responsible for assigning Independent Study.
Try to enjoy the coming week and take care of yourselves and one another.
In UNITY as always,
Whip
WHO Coronavirus updates: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
WHO Advice for the public: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public
TAL members,
I appreciate your patience and grace yesterday.
The ultimate decision to close schools was not an easy one, but I believe it was the best decision for employees and students alike. There have not been documented cases of the Coronavirus in our area; rather, closing schools is a preventative measure.
I want to assure you that I am In constant contact with Dr. Bowers and I will send out updates as they become available.
In addition, teachers are NOT responsible for assigning Independent Study.
Try to enjoy the coming week and take care of yourselves and one another.
In UNITY as always,
Whip
WHO Coronavirus updates: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
WHO Advice for the public: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public
TAL Shirts on Tuesday
I'd like to encourage teachers to wear their TAL shirt to show their unity & support for the Membership, each and every Tuesday!
State Council of Education
Christmas Parade
