Reclaiming the Promise by Bill Hosp
A June membership survey conducted by e-mail has identified our top priorities for the 2014-2015 school year. Using a weighted voting system, members were asked to designate their three most important priorities. Obtaining a step increase in the next budget cycle was voted the most important goal with 45% of the votes. Further reductions in class sizes came in second at 22% and mediating problems between staff and administration was third at 16%. Problems associated with meetings interfering with instructional planning time came in fourth at 14% and write in responses gathered 4% of the votes.
(Due to rounding these results add up to more than 100%.)
We will use this information to guide our negotiations with administration during the Meet and Confer process and our advocacy before the school board and the county board in the next budget cycle.
This past school year we were able to resolve each personnel issue brought to us either by directly bargaining or in cooperation with attorneys and other advocates. Members are advised to consult us early in the process when they encounter unfair practices in order to prevent the need for drastic measures. Our experience has been that administrators become more circumspect when they understand that their actions will be subjected to careful scrutiny.
Always remember that you are not alone as long as you are with us.
State Legislative Report
The Virginia General Assembly adopted a budget in June that reflected updated revenue estimates. Plans to support teacher raises were abandoned in order to cover the projected budget shortfall.
Local Legislative Report
The Prince William County School Board reconciled its budget by reconciling state and county budget shortfalls with savings in other areas. Their action preserves the 3% raise for school employees, which is a 2% net increase after VRS payments. Also included were the class size reduction plan for 6th grade and the 403(b) match for participating staff.
Find us on the web at http://pwft.va.aft.org/ and participate.