Colleagues,
Here are a few timely announcements and a brief update on some current issues:
– School Reorganization. We are in the final stage of negotiating a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on the implementation of aspects of the District’s School Reconfiguration Plan during its initial year (2024-2025). The yet-to-be-finalized one-year agreement would address the need to lower class sizes, invest in additional safety and social-emotional supports where most needed, and provide “moving stipends” for teachers moving from schools that are either closing, being phased out, or moving as a school. Additionally, the District would offer “hard-to-staff stipends” to teachers who apply and are accepted to be part of the newly constituted Middle Schools. The details and the exact language of the MOA, when finalized and signed, will be communicated first to the RTA Representative Assembly next Tuesday and subsequently to all RTA members.
– First 15 Minutes. A joint task force of Elementary school teachers and principals began meeting to address this matter. Their recommendation will be soon communicated to Superintendent Peluso. Dr. Peluso indicated that proposed changes could be implemented by the end of this semester, if possible, but no later than with the beginning of the next school year. We expect to know the Superintendent’s decision soon and will then announce the details to all RTA members. Meanwhile, we have not withdrawn either the Class Action Grievance or the Improper Practice charge.
– Academic Freedom. Administrators at some schools reportedly are encroaching on the academic freedom of teachers by suggesting that there can be no supplementing the curriculum, such as MyView, with resources that teachers wish to access. This would violate our contract (Section 3) and would constitute an undue infringement on the professional discretion and prerogative of teachers. We are addressing this with the District. Meanwhile, please contact RTA’s Margaret Sergent <mmsergent@rochesterteachers.com> or Aimee Rinere <arinere@rochesterteachers.com> if this is occurring at your school.
– Healthy Rewards. If you are participating in the Healthy Rewards Program this year, you must claim your rewards by no later than December 30, 2023. The current provider of this benefit is being discontinued and the new provider begins on January 1, 2024. The points earned under the current vendor will not transfer to the new one. If you have questions or need assistance please contact RTA’s Matt Lavonas <mlavonas@rochesterteachers.com> or Martha Keating <maskerade6@aol.com>.
– RTA Dinner Seminar. On December 19, RTA’s Educational Dinner Seminar will feature former Special Education teacher and renowned comedian KC Mack. Recounting his personal and hilarious experiences in education, this member of the Bored Teacher Comedy Tour will address the growing teacher shortage through his comedic presentation entitled “Bringing you out of the Burn Out.” Using humor and originality, KC Mack will offer insights and strategies that will help teachers to survive the challenges and remain committed to their students and to the profession. The one-hour presentation will be followed by a conversation with Mr. Mack and a question and answer period. Register on TrueNorth Logic while a few spots are still available and, in addition to being informed and entertained, you will also receive two PD credits.
– RTC/RTA Film Series. As part of celebration of Kwanzaa, the Rochester Teacher Center, in collaboration with the RTA, is offering on December 11th a showing of a documentary entitled “Mr. Dynamite: The Rise of James Brown.” The film will be followed by commentary, reflections and a discussion. The event, beginning at 5pm, will be at The Little Theatre (240 East Avenue). Register at TrueNorth Logic and receive two PD credits. If you choose to invite parents or community members, please register them by calling the RTC (585 262 8080) or by emailing RTC’s Ms. Yolanda Montalvo <ymontalvo@rochesterteachers.com>.
– More PD Opportunities. RTA’s Rochester Teaching Academy is offering a number of professional learning opportunities during this month and next. Topics of the workshops include creating an engaging learning environment, strategies to enhance student behavior, and understanding and writing quality IEPs. See the attachment below for a full list and description of sessions. Registration is now open through TrueNorth Logic. Feel free to contact RTA’s Annamaria Manso <amanso@rochesterteachers.com> with any questions or for more information.
Adam Urbanski, RTA President