Colleagues,
Attached is a brief update about a few timely issues:
– Negotiations. After eliciting input from our members, we are now in the process of developing our proposal for the upcoming negotiations for a successor contract. Since our goal is to be guided by the collective wisdom of teachers, we are so grateful that more of you responded to our negotiations survey than ever before. And that’s in addition to the forums conducted by RTA Department Chairpersons. Not surprisingly, teachers identified “what’s best for students” as their first priority. Following that, teacher salary, school safety and student discipline, and various conditions for teaching were mentioned most frequently. Later this month we will reach out to you before exchanging proposals to share with you in more detail what we are seeking to achieve in the new contract on your behalf.
– Voluntary Transfers. The Voluntary Transfer period is now open until February 14. We recommend that you take advantage of this opportunity in order to increase your options for Transfer Day if needed. Visit the RTA website <www.rochesterteachers.com> for more information and contact RTA’s Martha Keating, Margaret Sergent, Aimee Rinere or Matt Lavonas if you need advice or guidance.
– Job Sharing. Now is the time to contact Martha Keating <maskerade6@aol.com> if you are interested in a new job share. Please email her with the following information: your name, tenure area, current work location, personal email address, and telephone number. And please indicate whether you are willing to accept a job share position at another school. If you need to speak with Ms. Keating, please call her at the RTA (585 546 2681).
– Deductible Reimbursement. The District has extended our Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to continue reimbursing teachers for the auto insurance deductible if their vehicles are damaged or stolen at school premises. To receive the reimbursement, the applicant must file a police report and go through the auto insurance company. For support and advice, please contact RTA’s Matt Lavonas <mlavonas@rochesterteachers.com>.
– Thinking About Retirement? We are hosting a drop-in informational session for RTA members planning or considering retirement. If you’re among them, just stop by at the RTA offices (30 N. Union Street, Suite 301) at any time between 2:45 – 4:45pm on Tuesday, February 11. You’ll receive information on health care, the Absenteeism Reduction Plan, the New York State Retirement System, and other related topics. Ample free parking is available and no appointment is necessary.
As always, please contact us if you have questions or need assistance. Have a great week.
Adam Urbanski, RTA President