MDEA Teachers' Forum

MDUSD Budget Disaster—COLA to Blame

2010-01-13T22:49:00.001-08:00

I couldn't believe what I was hearing at last night's School Board meeting. The $17 million in cuts was horrifying enough. We (teachers and parents) were up in arms about the proposed class size minimum of 28 students, believing that it would kill some AP and Honors classes at some sites. We (parents) were distressed that we would not be able to pay to have our child bused to school. Librarians, music, special education, textbook adoption, custodial services, and the list goes on and on. All of these proposed budget reductions were proposed to meet a $17 million deficit by the 2011-2012 school year.

And then there was the news that $17 million was not enough. Actually, the number was more like $35.5 million.

I'll pause while you try to digest that number.

Pause.

Pause.

I was all the more shocked to hear the horrible news because our, um, esteemed Gubinator had released a revised budget on Friday, January 8^th, assuring the public there were no cuts to education. So what happened? If there were no cuts, why did the MDUSD budget shortfall leap from $17 to $35.5 million?

Turns out that there is a negative COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment). School districts get paid per student based on the COLA rate. If I understand this correctly, since the COLA has gone down, funding has also gone down. Can't you just see the Governor's budget and media people, jumping with glee when it was discovered that the COLA was down? What a spin! Now they could honestly tell the public that there were not additional cuts to education, the subtext being that they were compassionate individuals. Of course, there didn't have to be cuts because districts would already be receiving less.

I've never been great at math, but isn't that kind of the same thing as a cut?

So what exactly is there left to cut? How can school sites possibly be reorganized, heck, even redone, in order to weather this economic catastrophe?

Last night the Board voted to have school sites come up with possible solutions around the issue of minimum class size. I appreciate the Board making an effort to work with teachers and parents, instead of just making a cold decision that could adversely affect some sites and not others. It is important to receive input so that everyone is heard. Unfortunately, there has already been an unintended, negative consequence. I was floored to hear the conversations in the hall today—teachers suggesting which classes should be cut (not their own, of course), office staff adding in their two cents. The issue of summer school came up and the merits of providing this last opportunity for students who essentially 'choose' to fail. Inevitably the challenges of servicing the immigrant population in our community was raised. And it was not raised in a flattering manner.

We are all experts on what works and does not work at our school site. The community seems to know best when it comes to what teachers should and should not sacrifice (try telling a 2^nd grade teacher who had a 50% increase in class size that teachers have not given their share in during this budget crisis!). But this expertise and this 'knowing what's best' for a site, does not make us the best decision makers. Really, what we experience for 90% of the school day is what goes on only in our classroom or only in the office. Everything else is hearsay.

Bottom line is that people are scared. People are overwhelmed. And asking school sites to make these recommendations is unfair as it has the potential to put us at each other's throats. Given all the added stress resulting from last year's cuts and the uncertainty of the future, we need to be one another's strongest support.

What can we do to salvage our students' education and still be a sane, safe community at the end of day?

Teachers Donate Money & Food

2009-10-06T16:09:00.000-07:00

Wow! Thank you so much!

Over 60 cans of food were donated by MDUSD teachers at October's Mt. Diablo Education Association (MDEA) meeting. In addition, a teacher donated $50. All food and monetary donations go directly to the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano County.

At September's Mt. Diablo Education Association (MDEA) meeting, teacher representatives from every school in the district voted to make monthly donations of non-perishable food items to the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano County. Often times canned food drives are focused around the holidays. However, hunger happens all year long. By donating food, teachers can have a positive impact on the community.

History
Mrs. Linda Ortega, a teacher at El Monte Elementary and a delegate on the MDEA Executive Board had a transformative experience in July, 2009. While attending the National Representative Assembly for the National Education Association, Linda was inspired by stories of educators who had had monumental positive impacts in their communities. Often times, these educator's contributions started out in small ways, such as volunteering time at a local food bank, or mentoring families. Over the years, those small contributions outside of the classroom translated into big changes that have had a positive affect on thousands of lives.

A teacher has a public, influential position in the community. So how, Linda wondered, could she and other teachers in the Mt. Diablo district use that influence to have the same kind of positive impact as other educators around the country? One way is through donating food and money to a local food bank year round, not just during the holidays.

Future
Every month, teachers are to give donations to the site rep to bring to the MDEA representative assembly (the 1st Monday of every month). This October, teachers donated over 60 cans, and $50. We are shooting for double that amount for the November meeting. Our theme for November is SOUP, however any non-perishable, non-expired food items are welcome!

If there are too many items to transport to the MDEA meeting, call MDEA and we will figure out a way to pick up the items.

Click the link to learn more information on the Food Bank and make a monetary donation.

Abuse of the Teachers

2009-06-09T06:26:00.000-07:00

The district has informed teachers at Oak Grove Middle School that they will provide an additional two and a half hours of instruction every week next year with no additional pay. They are being ordered to provide more instructional time than teachers at any other middle school, more than than they spent this year, and more time than required by the contract. This additional instructional time has been imposed on top of the excessive amount of time required for meetings, reports, and observations that are demanded at a much higher level from Oak Grove teachers than at any other middle school.

We cannot stand by and allow this abuse to happen. Does anyone have any ideas about how we can support our colleagues at Oak Grove?

The Beginning of Class Size Swellling

2009-06-03T06:55:00.000-07:00

Last night, the School Board reacted to massive State Budget Cuts by agreeing to increase class size in grades 1 - 3 to 30 students. There are about a million reasons why this is a bad idea and about a million bad things that will happen as a result. One fact, however, is most important: they had no choice.

Education funding decisions in California are made by three or four people who probably have not seen in the inside of a public school classroom in their entire lives. The system is broken and we need to be part of the solution. Please:

Tell everyone you talk with - and call people you haven't talked with in a long time. Tell them:

We need a return to democracy: All budgetary and revenue matters should be decided by a majority.

We need to end the 2/3 vote requirement.

We need to make sure that every person and every corporation is paying their fair share of the state budget.

We need to make sure the state budget process is not manipulated, but is clear and fair.

We need a Democratic governor.

We need community member who understand the bigger picture - how the state governement works, how the election process works, how education works, and what the results could be if every child really received a free and appropriate education.

Please educate adults about why children are important - every chance you get!

Thanks.

RIF Hearing Suggestions

2009-04-22T08:12:00.001-07:00

I wanted to pass on some suggestions that I've heard people mention:

1) Many teachers have asked if they have to attend the RIF hearings for the full two days. The answer is that as soon as your ranking (or issue) is reviewed, your are expected to return to school. If you are done on Thursday, cancel the sub for Friday. If you are done in the middle of the day (or morning) on either Thursday or Friday, ask your site manager if you should cancel the sub. You are still required to return to your teaching assignment, but the school may want to use the sub for the remainder of the day on a different assignment.

2) Come early to find a parking space. Over 600 teachers received pink slips. Assuming that many of those teachers will show up for the hearings, parking will be difficult.

3) Bring something to keep yourself entertained as there will be a lot of waiting around.

4) Bring lunch/snacks/something to drink. Lunch is not provided.

Attend Reduction in Force Hearings!

2009-04-19T19:22:00.000-07:00

If you received a Reduction in Force notice (a pink slip), the Education Code gives you the right to attend hearings to make sure that your position is secure. Sub days to attend RIF hearings are not deducted from your pay. If you do not have the sub code, the easiest way to get it is to ask your site rep or to call the MDEA office at 925-676-4664.

The meetings are as follows:

April 23, 2009 - Starting at 9:30AM - 5:00PM

April 24, 2009 - Starting at 9:30AM - 5:00PM

April 27, 2009 - Starting at 9:30AM - 5:00PM

We (MDEA) are recommending that all noticed teachers call for a sub for the first two (2) scheduled hearing days, April 23 & 24th, If any unresolved issues remain beyond April 24, we will ask specific teachers to call for a sub for April 27th.

Please note that if there are not enough subs, you still have the right to attend the RIF hearings and it is responsibility of the school site to provide coverage for the students.

If you or teachers at your site have additional questions/concerns around impacts precipitated by the RIF hearing, please don't hesitate to call the MDEA office or to leave a comment here.

Hundreds at Rally 'Stand Up for Schools'

2009-03-12T15:13:00.000-07:00

This e-mail went out today from Mike Noce, MDEA president.

"I want to thank everyone that attended yesterday’s “Stand Up for Our Schools” Rally. In our estimates we had close to 500 people attend. Everyone was wearing stickers and pink arm bands to show support for over 600 teachers in our district that will be receiving pink slips tomorrow. Many were also holding signs with a variety of messages. There were a number of television news cameras there as well as a hovering helicopter from Channel 7. Print media was also well represented.
We had a variety of speakers that shared their perspectives of the current crisis public education is facing. These speakers represented Elected Officials, the County of Education, School Boards, Superintendents, Teachers, Labor and Parents. The key point speaker was Dean Vogel, our CTA Vice President, who urged us to let Sacramento know “Enough is Enough.” It was nice having such a broad coalition working together for our students. I especially want to thank Gary Eberhart, Sherry Whitmarsh, Dick Nicoll, and the number of site administrators that came out to participate.
The highlight of the afternoon was the march to Ygnacio Valley Rd. to inform the thousands of commuters about the crisis. It was awesome seeing our ranks stretched over 6-7 blocks as we paraded with our signs and chanted “Save Our Schools” and “Enough is Enough.” The chant leaders did a great job in keeping everyone involved and motivated. It’s also always nice to hear the honking cars and waves from the commuters as well to keep spirits high.
This was a kickoff event, we need to individually keep informing friends, families, and neighbors of how these massive cuts are affecting not only teachers, but our students as well. We need to reach those members of our community that don’t have kids in our schools. We need their support to pass Measure D, our parcel tax, and to remind their state legislators that enough is enough.
Ask your reps when your site is scheduled to phone bank so you can schedule it into your calendar. We also need you to write a check for $20-$89 to the MDEA PAC to help fund the Measure D campaign. It’s going to be a busy two months, but passing Measure D is our best local option.

Thank you,
Mike"

Teacher Lay-Offs & Stand Up for Schools

2009-03-10T19:02:00.000-07:00

I'm in my 9th year of teaching. I remember that for the first two years, I received lay-off notices. Everyone told me not to worry. Yes, the California budget was not great, there were some cutbacks, but all in all, teachers for required subjects need not worry about their job.

This round of lay-offs is different. At least, that is the message I've been hearing from the media, from the California Teachers Association, and from following what has been happening with budget cuts in our own district. Essentially, the California budget is a mess due to the recession and it's difficult to predict when things will improve. My understanding is that there could be even more cuts down the road. In other words, this past round of budget cuts that the MDUSD Board had to make might not be the last.

In my opinion, these budget reductions are a crime against our students. Even when the California budget improves, it could take years to rebuild successful programs that were decimated.

So what can we do? We can Stand Up for Schools!

This week, CTA mounted a campaign called Stand Up for Schools. The mailer I received on Saturday highlights that thousands of teachers will be receiving pink slips this year. According to the CTA website www. pinkfriday09.org, over 20,000 California teachers have already received their Reduction in Force notices (pink slips).

Yes, teachers (not to mention administrators and support personnel) will lose their jobs, but what is the REAL impact of these RIF's? Class size increases, cuts to support programs helping students to pass high school, the loss of librarians, elementary music, sports, ultimately fewer opportunities for students to go to college.

The real purpose of the campaign is to raise public awareness of the devastating impact the budget reductions will have on California public schools.

So, wear your pink armbands all week (if you're a MDEA teacher your rep should have some to give you).

Attend the rally at Civic Park in Walnut Creek on Wednesday from 4 to 6 pm.

Wear pink on Friday, March 13th.

Help pass Measure D (the parcel tax) that will be on the May 19th election. This will raise 7 million dollars for the Mt. Diablo School District that helps fund some of the programs that had to be eliminated.

Tell everyone you know that California is destroying our children's future by placing them last in per pupil spending compared to all the other states (we were 47th before the budget revise was completed--now I've read that we are 50th).

Math Teacher at YVHS Passes Away

2009-02-25T11:46:00.000-08:00

Sadly, our friend and MDEA representative, Carmel Westcoat passed away over the weekend. Carmel was a wonderful friend and could always be relied on to not only listen, but to share her insight without hesitation. Carmel was an inspiration to me through her dedication to both students and teachers.

Besides missing a friend, teachers have also been struggling to fill in the gaping whole of all that Carmel did. She was an integral part of the math department, running the CAHSEE math prep for YVHS students, doing after school tutoring, and organizing summer math programs for students with DVC.

Carmel will always be loved and missed.

Below is a link to her obituary in the Contra Costa Times, along with details of the funeral service this Friday, February 25th.

Carmel Westcoat Obituary

State Budget Crisis & Parcel Tax Reality

2009-01-30T20:02:00.000-08:00

This e-mail went out to members on Friday, January 30. If you are not receiving these e-mails from MDEA, please let us know and give us your e-mail address so that we can include you in future communication.

Dear Members,

As you know, we still don’t have a settled State budget, and if the Governor’s proposed budget is passed as is, public education will be taking catastrophic cuts. His plan would reduce funding midyear for 2008-09 by 2.1 billion dollars. His plan would reduce funding in 2009-10 by 2.8 billion dollars, for an overall cumulative revenue limit deficit that will climb to over 16%.

We also are anticipating a significant increase in the number of layoff notices this year with the strong possibility that tens of thousands of May 15 layoff letters will be sent out by districts statewide. In past years, Mt. Diablo has had a lot of March 15, notifications go out, but relatively few actual layoffs. That may not be the case this year. MDEA will be holding informational meetings for our members who receive a layoff notices to inform them about the process and their right to a hearing.

There is a statewide campaign being developed to educate our members and to plan actions to publicize the devastating impact of the state budget on public schools and the students we serve. Attached are names and contact numbers of state legislators we need to lobby, and talking points on what to say. These legislators need to hear teachers’ stories of the effects these cuts would have on our students and our families. Please make some calls. You will also be receiving a hard copy of the contact information next week.

A lot of our members don’t believe there is a real crisis. There is! The solutions our legislators have used in the past, won’t work anymore. We have a revenue problem. The massive cuts to education are real. We need to act now; we have not faced a situation like this since the 70’s when Prop 13 was passed.

Parcel Tax in MDUSD

There is a committee looking into the possibility of putting a parcel tax on the special election ballot when the Governor calls one, possibly in June. MDEA’s Executive Board has already recommended that the Rep Assembly endorse a parcel tax, if one is brought forward.

Currently, polling is being done to help identify for which purposes, and in what amount, MDUSD's communities would support a parcel tax. After analyzing this data, a specific proposal will be prepared. This process requires completion by Feb 15; therefore, we will not be considering whether to endorse a parcel tax at the February Rep Assembly. MDEA doesn’t want to rush this issue until we know the specifics. We want all our members to fully understand the proposal, because it will require everyone’s hard work and support to pass a parcel tax.

MDEA will ensure that our members are fully informed of any new information on the parcel tax, as we receive it. Discussion of a parcel tax will be on the agenda for the February Rep Assembly. We will be asking our Reps to listen to any concerns or questions that come up from sites, and report out at our March R.A. MDEA has been highly involved and included in all aspects of the parcel tax process thus far, and that involvement will continue if the R.A. votes to endorse a parcel tax effort. Attend your site’s MDEA meeting next month to learn the latest.

Mt. Diablo has not had a parcel tax in many years but, in the current economic crisis, we will need one to preserve a quality education for our students.

Mike

Great Rresources from Conferences

2009-01-19T11:08:00.000-08:00

I spent the past two weekends at conferences, paid for by MDEA. The first conference was the Good Teaching Conference (also attending was Lisa Caballero, math teacher from Mt. Diablo High School) and the second was the annual conference of the California League of High Schools (also attending was Liane Cismowski, English teachers, from Olympic High School). Both conferences were excellent, and served to rejuvenate and motivate. I appreciated the opportunity to hear what other schools and districts around the state are doing to exit Program Improvement, motivate and support their teachers, and truly work as a team to provide a 'successful' learning environment for their students.

I've listed some resources below. Some of the resources are for tools to help in the classroom. Others are for inspiring change on campuses. Some of these EVERYONE knows about, some are completely new. Please add more suggestions of resources that you have found helpful.

1) www.zamzar.com those awesome video clips on youtube or google video that our district blocks? Copy the URL to the zamzar site, it will convert it for free, and then you can drop it into your powerpoint.

2) http://guerrillalearning.wetpaint.com/ great resource for overview of internet tools out there, PLUS explanations on how to use them. Gems are hidden on left side of the home page under ‘site pages’.

3) ‘In Plain English’ are quick videos on YouTube that plainly explain things like blogging, RSS feeds, social networking, google documents, etc. Just go to YouTube and type in “In Plain English”.

4) www.edublogs.tv apparently not blocked by district filters. A moderated video sharing site of stuff submitted by educators

5) www.cooliris.com it’s a free download. Not sure how to describe what it does, but it has to do with displaying pictures differently and it looked really cool when the presenter used it.

6) www.nextvista.org a moderated video sharing site—I like the way this is organized better than edublogs, but not as much stuff on there (as of now).

7) www.280slides.com and www.sliderocket.com students ever say that can’t do a powerpoint because they don’t have the program? Both these sites have free powerpoint type programs. Students build the presentation online. Sliderocket is more commercial than 280slides, but it still gives you a free option.

8) Richard DuFour's handout on his presentation on Professional Learning Communities at the CLHS conference Transforming The High School.

9) A Powerpoint to Regina Owens' presentation on Collaboration can be found at the CLHS website.

10) Do you like Facebook? Here's a professional network just for high school teachers.

Parcel Tax

2009-01-11T17:27:00.000-08:00

We need a parcel tax to improve funding for our schools. As teachers, we know that we don't have the resources we need to do our jobs properly. Now is the time to ask voters to approve a parcel tax so that local businesses and residents can support schools in our community. I'm willing to do what it takes to develop a sensible parcel tax and get it approved by voters. The key is identifying the critical components that will make our schools more effective for our children. I think that means more funding for music and art, more counselors, and more programs where high school students can learn marketable skills if they are not going to college.

FAQs on Tentative Agreement

2008-12-15T17:30:00.000-08:00

1. What is the highest amount the December Bonus could be?
If no new employees sign up to purchase benefits for the district, the bonus pool would be (3,000,000 ‒ (722 X 3000)) 834,000. This amount divided by approximately 1900 members = $439 before taxes.
2. Why is the cost for people who are buying medical from the district different for people who enroll in the plan after January 1?
Two reasons:
i. People who are currently buying medical pay a “blended rate,” which averages the lower cost of 2008 medical premiums with the increased premium rate that takes effect on January 1st. Since premiums are taken out over 10 months, but coverage is provided for twelve months, this increased amount covers the premiums for August and September.
ii. New enrollees will start pre-paying premiums in February even through their coverage will not start until May. This pre-payment will cover their August and September premiums.
3. If a total of 1,000 people enroll in medical, what will be the amount of the December bonus?
If a 1,000 or more members enroll in medical, there will be no December bonus.
4. Why are members only being given ten days to consider this offer before voting?
It is important to finalize this contract before the legislature makes mid-year cuts to school districts’ funding. Draconian state actions could jeopardize any agreement that is not ratified.
5. If more than 1,000 people enroll in medical through the district, how will the stipend change?
If more than 1,000 people enroll, the stipend will be reduced from $333, so that only $3 M in total will be expended. For example, if 1,200 people enroll, the annual amount will be reduced from $3,000 to $2,500. Distributed over the nine remaining paycheck, this will represent a $277 stipend.

6. If the new Board is really supportive of teachers, why is there no salary increase?
Given the state budget reductions, the District does not appear to be able to afford an increase in teachers’ salaries, or additional medical contributions. All compensation agreements must be approved by the County Office of Education. It is unlikely the County would approve an agreement that put the district at risk of bankruptcy.
6. If every member enrolls in medical, what would the rate be?
If all 1900 members enroll in medical, the monthly stipend will be reduced to $157. The deduction for medical coverage would increase accordingly.
7. On the first page of the Tentative Agreement, what is the purpose of the phrase “subject to negotiation” when referencing potential plan implementation costs?
If the carrier imposes any additional plan implementation costs which are not now known, and these costs could cause the district to spend more than $3M for medical, these costs would be subject to negotiations between the parties to determine who will pay them.
8. Will the County Office of Education approve this agreement?
Currently, the Country Office of Education is very conservative in approving any agreement that could lead to increased costs. However, our tentative agreement clearly states the District’s commitment to reducing costs. These cuts will in all probability be specified and enacted before the County moves to approve the agreement or disapprove the agreement. Furthermore, the structure of this agreement limits the district expense to $3M for calendar year 2009. There is no potential for an increasing financial liability due to potentially increasing premiums, or in an increasing number of enrollees. Because the District’s financial exposure is defined in the agreement, it is more likely that the Country will grant its approval.
9. How much would an employee have deducted from their pay if they enroll in single Kaiser after January 1?
$73.97, if 1,000 or less members sign up for coverage through the District.
10. Is it true that if a member chooses not to purchase benefits through the District, the agreement offers no increase in total compensation?
That is true. There would be no increases in total compensation for that member. However, this agreement provides for members not currently participating in a District offered medical plan, the ability to receive a monthly District medical contribution if their other coverage is lost for whatever reason. These teachers also have the potential for a one time bonus if fewer than 1,000 teachers sign up for coverage through the District.
11. Does the new Board really believe that this offer will solve the district’s recruitment and retention problems?
This agreement will not solve all the district’s recruitment and retention problems, but it will allow some teachers to continue in the district and will encourage some new teachers to accept positions.
12. The last paragraph on the first page of the tentative agreement discusses the need for budget reductions. What is the protection for librarians and music programs?
This agreement makes no stipulations regarding which programs will be eliminated. Cost reductions are appropriately the purview of the Board.
13. Why will newly enrolling members have deductions for medical in February and March, if their coverage does not begin until May?
The February and March deductions are advance payment for August and September medical coverage.
14. How does this agreement help members who plan to retire in the near future?
Because there is no increase in base salary, there will be no increase in retirement pay. It is unfortunate, but the district is not able to afford a salary increase at this time.
15. After 2010, will the district still continue to provide at least $3.3 M for medical benefits?
Yes.
16. Why don’t we keep the agreement open and hope for increases for next year?
If the agreement is still open, it would be easier to the district to unilaterally reduce salary. The best way to avoid this possibility is to close and ratify the agreement.
17. What would happen if the majority of members vote “No” on the agreement?
Your Bargaining Team and the District would need to go back to the table. There is no guarantee as to how long the process would take. There would be no District medical contribution and no potential bonus, as outlined in the Tentative Agreement, unless these terms were renegotiated. Further deterioration of the budget could result in a worse deal for teachers.
18. The agreement explains how the premiums to Calpers can be paid with pre-tax dollars through a 125 plan. Can employees who purchase benefits on their own pay these premiums through the 125 plan?
No.
19. How do we get an increase in summer school rates?
Refuse, as a group, to teach summer school at the current rate.
20. Why is the summer school rate tied to the intervention rate?
Both of these rates apply to same type of remediation work with students. It makes sense that the rates be equal.
21. If a member is laid off at the end of the year, will they get a rebate on the premiums they have already paid?
Members who are laid off at the end of the year will receive a rebate for premiums that would have extended their coverage beyond July 31st. They can then elect to purchase benefits through COBRA for the remainder of the year and beyond.
22. Why is there no retroactive pay for 2007?
Is does not appear that the district can afford retroactive pay for 2007. This is the best agreement that is possible in the current economic climate.
24. Can we vote “yes” or “no” on parts of the Tentative Agreement, or are we voting on the T.A. as a package?
The T.A. was negotiated as a package proposal.

MDEA/CTA/NEA

Tentative Contract Discussions & Questions

2008-12-10T18:52:00.000-08:00

The first general meeting to discuss the tentative contract was today at Ygnacio Valley High School. About 50 people were present to hear the details of the contract and to ask questions. All of the members of the MDEA negotiating team were present, as well as Mark York, Executive Director of MDEA, and Tom Blanks, Vice President of MDEA.

There are two more general meetings scheduled. The next meeting is Thursday, December 12, 6 PM, at Concord High School. The last meeting is on Tuesday, December 16, 3:30 PM at Pleasant Hill Middle School.

Voting on the contract will take place on Wednesday, December 17 and Thursday, December 18 at each school site.

An e-mail with the tentative contract was e-mail out to members. A hard copy should be distributed to you by the end of the day tomorrow. An online copy can be found on the MDEA website at http://www.mtdiabloeducationassoc.org/contract/tent_contract.htm.

1% Salary Reduction

2008-12-06T08:28:00.000-08:00

One of the proposals for cost reduction in the district is a 1% salary reduction for all employees. My colleagues are very valuable - I don't want to risk them leaving for another district or leaving the professional all together. Teachers need to be paid more money not less.

IMPORTANT! Meetings to Discuss Possible Contract

2008-11-19T19:35:00.000-08:00

MDEA members received an e-mail today from the MDEA office. The e-mail is as follows:

Dear Members,

As you know we have reached a tentative conceptual agreement with the district at our last mediation session. We have two future dates to meet again to approve specific language so we can sign a tentative agreement we can share with our members.

I would like you to save some dates on your calendar to attend a general member information meeting where we will be able to explain the agreement, answer questions, and hear your concerns. We understand that our elementary teachers have conferences during the time we are scheduling these meetings and we'll have at least one in the evening to help meet your availability. By giving you the possible dates in advance we are hoping you can schedule these meetings and we'll have at least one in the evening to help meet your availability. By giving you the possible dates in advance we are hoping you can schedule other commitments around these meetings. We are hoping to get a large turnout at these meetings.

If we have a tentative agreement at our next mediation session on December 8, we will have a general meeting* on:

Wednesday, Dec 10 at 3:30

Thursday, Dec 11 at 6:00

Tuesday, Dec 16 at 3:30

We would vote to ratify on Wednesday, Dec 17 and Thursday Dec 18, 2008.

If we have a tentative agreement at our second mediation session on December 15, we'll have a general meeting on:

Tuesday, Dec 15 at 3:30

Wednesday, Dec 17 at 6:00

Tuesday, Jan 6 at 3:30

We will vote to ratify on Wednesday, Jan 7 and Thursday, Jan 8, 2009.

*Locations still to be determined

Election Update from Mike

2008-11-06T20:38:00.000-08:00

Can you Spell Mandate?

If you haven’t already heard Gary and Sherry were overwhelming winners in yesterday’s election. The results are as follows with 206 of 206 precincts reporting.

Sherry Whitmarsh- 43,543 34.43%

Gary Eberhart- 41,208 32.58%

April Treece- 21,909 17.32%

Jeff Adams- 19,386 15.33%

We thought it would have been much closer. The most exciting aspect of this victory is the fact that our community is aware of the problems our district is facing and wants leadership that will address those problems instead of pretending they aren’t there. Our community listened to you when you made them aware of your concerns about the direction our district was headed and this vote shows they want a different approach to solving them.

This vote won’t change the effects of the state budget crisis, but hopefully it will change the environment and process in which the decisions that affect our lives will be made.

I truly feel that this election can be the first step in changing the current board majority’s priorities and cause them to re- examine the way they do business. They may realize that all stakeholders, especially their employees, need to have real buyin and input into the decisions being made. I’m also optimistic that the current top down management style will change and a better relationship will be a result.

I’d like to thank everyone who worked so hard on the campaign. It was your influence as teachers that made the difference when you contacted your friends, neighbors, and acquaintances. You are respected by the community and the results validated it. I’d also like to especially thank our phone bank captains and site reps that enabled us to complete the thousands of calls and contacts with the community during the campaign.

The phone captains gave up time to run the banks and support our callers. The reps motivated their staff to phone and walk precincts as well as organizing neighborhood walks and street demonstrations. When we work together, we can accomplish a lot. Thanks again.

Have Your Rights Been Violated?

2008-10-21T08:50:00.000-07:00

Did you know that last month the district told principals that we are not allowed to display political materials on school property? Including, in our cars? Better scrape off that Obama or McCain bumper sticker. . . .and what about the Whitmarsh and Eberhart car signs?

The rumors (and truths) are flying on this issue! Please read the Contra Costa Times article below regarding our ability to make our opinion known about November 4th's election. Please make comments on this issue so that we can get an idea of how wide-spread this district policy is being enforced.

http://www.contracostatimes.com/ci_10769276

(I can't figure out how to have a picture of the article on this page--please just click on the link and then come back to this page to comment.)

Thank you!

Taking it to the Streets & Beyond

2008-10-15T20:39:00.000-07:00

Taking It To The Streets
On Tuesday, from 3:45 to 5:15, MDUSD teachers and other members from the community took the election to the streets. There were over 100 people at the three intersections, all supporting our endorsed candidates, Sherry Whitmarsh and Gary Eberhart. It was a successful event in that we reached out to the community to let them know who we support and why. At the intersection I was at, there were a few conversations that happened with passing motorists (stopped for red lights, of course) and pedestrians. At the very least, the community was able to connect those abundant orange and blue signs with real people who care about the outcome of our school district. When our community goes to the polls to vote, our actions WILL make a difference.

For those who were able to participate, THANK YOU!

And Beyond

Every Monday through Thursday night we are phone banking at the MDEA office, starting at 5:00. You can come any night and will find familiar faces (phone bank 'captains' who are there on assigned nights) and new friends. I've had as much fun meeting other teachers and putting names to faces as I've had calling voters in the Mt. Diablo School District area. Please call the MDEA office to tell Tanisha that you'll be there (to make sure we have enough pizza). 676-4664.

And don't forget precinct walking, probably one of the most effective ways to get the message out to the community: Vote for Sherry & Gary, the candidates for change. Saturday mornings from 9 to 12; Sundays from 2:30 to 5:30.

Update from Mike--Disability Mistake & Street Corner Action

2008-10-13T20:25:00.000-07:00

American Fidelity Insurance

If you received a letter stating that your insurance would be terminated unless you sent the payment due, please send the check. There was a mistake made where the premium on last years checks were adjusted for the ten pay system that went into effect last year because of a recent IRS ruling. The district will make adjustments in future checks. If you have any questions call Dick Nicoll’s office, extension 4006.

Letters to the Editor

Remember to write and send letters to support Gary and Sherry. At the Candidates Forum in Pleasant Hill last week, April Treece said that the distrust between the union and district management doesn’t carry over into the classrooms. She feels there is a tremendous amount of trust between the district and teachers. April also stated in the forum and on her mailings that teacher compensation is her top priority. What do you think? Write a letter to the editor and give your opinion and ask the community to vote for Gary and Sherry. Identify yourself as a teacher in your letter.

Taking it to the Streets--Tuesday, October 14

Remember to participate in our community outreach activity tomorrow from 3:45-5:15. Bring a homemade sign or hold one of ours. The three intersections we’ll be at are:

Ygnacio Valley Rd and Oak Grove

Treat Blvd and Clayton Rd

Contra Costa Blvd and Monument

$833,550 Tax Penalty? Or your Benefits?

2008-10-01T11:39:00.000-07:00

Now that the California State Budget has been settled, the School Board is beginning to ready itself for continuing mediations with MDEA (and the other bargaining units). As such, at last week's board meeting, a projected 3-year budget was looked at. On that budget was a line item that read 'IRS Tax Payment' and listed an amount of $833,550.

Gary Eberhart questioned the line item and as we came to find out, the $833,550 was an IRS PENALTY that is being assessed, due to underpayment of taxes, penalties for underpayment, and interest on the monies due. I won't go into the details on this post--the Contra Costa Times, the MDUSD Blog, even Mr. McHenry have all given their explanation and account of these penalties (and who's fault it is or isn't). See below for a list of links to research this topic.

The important issue for teachers to note is that this $833,550 is now off of the negotiating table. In other words, due to either incompetence, accounting errors, papers being lost in the shuffle, or whatever, there is now less available money to settle our contract. Even if it turns out that every single penny of the $833,550 that the IRS says we owe, stays in the MDUSD coffers, at the negotiating table we have to pretend that money does not exist!

How long will it take to work this out with the IRS? The MDUSD has 6 weeks to submit documentation to the IRS. I wonder how long it will take for the IRS to respond? In the mean time, we are still working without a contract. . . . .

For more info:

http://mdusd.blogspot.com/2008/09/83355000-tax-blunder.html (Blog post by Gary Eberhart explaining how this line item was discovered and discussed at the Board meeting)
http://www.ibabuzz.com/aparentlyspeaking/2008/09/30/mt-diablo-incurs-irs-wrath-again/ (aParently Speaking from CC Times)
http://www.contracostatimes.com/education/ci_10594161?nclick_check=1 (Contra Costa Times Article)
http://claycord.blogspot.com/2008/09/message-from-superintendent-mchenry.html (Claycord Blog with a message from Gary McHenry, Superintendent)
http://mdusd.blogspot.com/2008/09/mchenrys-desparate-attempt-to-explain.html (Paul Strange's response to Gary McHenry's memo)

Disability Insurance with The Standard

2008-09-30T19:40:00.000-07:00

The California Teacher's Association (CTA) endorses The Standard, a disability insurance provider to help meet the needs of it members. For the month of October, MDEA members can sign up for the CTA/The Standard Disability insurance without proof of good health (as long as the minimum number of new enrollees is met). Since it is endorsed by CTA, The Standard provides some benefits that other disability insurance providers do not offer. For example:

1) If you ever have a concern with your claim you can appeal it to a CTA member-only based panel who will review your claim.

2) You are covered 24 hours a day, on or off the job for any accident, sickness, illness or injury.

3) There is a well baby program that either the member or their spouse, can access for maternity help.

4) If you become disabled, and you have any extra duty contracts, i.e., summer school, coaching, band, tutoring etc… with the district, that part of your salary will be calculated in your disability payment.

5) Once you have coverage with The Standard, you never have to notify The Standard to increase your coverage amount, The Standard takes care of it for you, so you are always covered for your current salary at time of disability.

6) Exclusion for pre-existing conditions is only 10 days after enrollment, rather than the usual 1 year time frame.

So how do you get more information and/or sign up with The Standard for disability insurance?

You can go to www.cta.org/mycta for more information (enrollment forms are also available at this site).

Or, if you prefer to speak with a representative in person, Paul Brunetta from The Standard, is scheduled to be at most of our sites throughout the month of October (see the schedule below). He can also be reached at 800-522-0406 or 707-322-2165.

Please note: If you want to switch from American Fidelity or any other provider, you need to fill out the "cancellation forms" that Paul can provide you, and turn one copy in with your application and give the other to Mt. Diablo Payroll Dept by 11/1/08.

CTA/The Standard® Disability

Open Enrollment Schedule

MDEA members can sign up for CTA/The Standard® Disability Insurance *without proof of good health from 10/1/08 to 10/31/08.

10/1 Ayers – Lunch

10/1 Bancroft – After

10/2 Bel Air – Lunch

10/2 Cambridge – After

10/3 Cornerstone – Lunch

10/3 Delta View - After

10/6 Eagle Peak – Lunch

10/7 El Monte – Lunch

10/7 Fair Oaks – After

10/8 Gregory Gardens –Lunch

10/8 Hidden Valley – After

10/9 Highlands – Lunch

10/9 Holbrook – After

10/10 Meadow Homes – Lunch

10/10 Monte Gardens – After

10/13 Mt. Diablo Elem – Lunch

10/13 Mountain View – After

10/14 Pleasant Hill Elem – Lunch

10/14 Rio Vista – After

10/15 Sequoia Elem – Lunch

10/15 Shore Acres – After

10/16 Silverwood – Lunch

10/16 Strandwood – After

10/17 Sun Terrace– Lunch

10/20 Sunrise – Lunch

10/20 Valhalla - After

10/20 Foothill Middle - Lunch

10/20 Glenbrook Middle – After

10/21 Valle Verde - Lunch

10/21 Walnut Acres – After

10/21 Oak Grove Middle - Lunch

10/21 Pine Hollow Middle – After

10/22 Westwood - Lunch

10/22 Woodside - After

10/22 Pleasant Hill Middle – Lunch

10/22 Riverview Middle - After

10/23 Wren Avenue – Lunch

10/23 Ygnacio Valley Elem – After

10/23 Sequoia Middle – Lunch

10/23 Valley View Middle – After

10/24 Diablo View Middle – Lunch

10/24 El Dorado Middle – After

10/24 Clayton Valley High – Lunch

10/28 College Park High – Lunch

10/28 Concord High – After

10/29 Mt. Diablo High – Lunch

10/29 Northgate High – After

10/30 Ygnacio Valley High – Lunch

Last Chance:

10/30 MDEA Office – 2:30 - 4:30

2255 Contra Costa Blvd, Pleasant Hill, Suite 202

Vote for Sherry & Gary: Phonebanking Effort Begins

2008-09-21T10:48:00.001-07:00

An easy way to make a difference in this upcoming election begins tomorrow, on Monday September 22nd.

Our phonebanking effort runs from 5:00 to 8:00 at the MDEA office (Mon-Thurs until the election in November). Stay for the evening, or stay for an hour, as every phone call helps. We promise it to be a fun, low-stress, motivating experience! Contrary to what you may fear, the community loves to hear from teachers and are usually very receptive to what we have to say.

When you come to phonebank with other teachers, you'll be given a script, so you do not need to think of something to say all on your own. And we are providing free pizza to keep those verbal skills going.

Location: 2255 Contra Costa Blvd, Ste 202

More info: 925-676-4664 2255 Contra Costa
Blvd. Suite 202
Pleasant Hill,
California, 94523
925-676-4664

Frequently Asked Questions

2008-09-21T10:00:00.000-07:00

So what does it mean to be in 'mediations'? Who does MDEA support the School Board in the upcoming election? Can/should a non-tenured teacher be involved in union activities? Keep reading for answers to these questions and more.

I Want to Know…

(FAQs – MDEA Organizing Fall, 2008)

How can I contact School Board Members?

April Treece opuscomm@pacbell.net phone (925) 672-3759

Linda Mayo mayolk@aol.com phone (925) 935-6938

Dick Allen dickallen_dallen@yahoo.com phone (925) 686-1179

Paul Strange paul@mdusd.net phone (925) 969-9495

Gary Eberhart gary@mdusd.net phone: 925-304-1546

NOTE: These email address are also available on the district website under Board of Education. http://www.mdusd.k12.ca.us/mdusd/boe.php

What can we do to ensure the election of Sherry Whitmarsh and the reelection of Gary Eberhart?

Participate in phone banking and precinct walking. We will be phone banking every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday night from Sept 22 until Election Day (November 4) from 5:00 – 8:00 pm. Food, prizes, and great fun! Phone banking is at the MDEA office at 2255 Contra Costa Blvd, Suite 202, in Pleasant Hill. Precinct walking is planned for every Saturday morning starting at 9:00 am and Sunday afternoon beginning at 2 pm. We will meet at the MDEA office, get directions and materials and then travel to the assigned neighborhood.

Which School Board Members are supportive of teachers?

Gary Eberhart and Paul Strange have called for the resignation of the Superintendent and repeatedly talked about the importance of solving the turnover problem by ensuring MDUSD teachers receive competitive compensation.

Which School Board Members are up for reelection?

April Treece and Gary Eberhart are up for reelection. MDEA has strongly endorsed Gary Eberhart, and is actively supporting Sherry Whitmarsh to replace incumbent April Treece.

Will we do leafleting at Back to School Nights?

Our top priority is the School Board Election – ensuring the election of Sherry Whitmarsh and the reelection of Gary Eberhart. Since phone banking conflicts with Back to School Nights, we suggest that members participate in phone banking rather than spend the time leafleting a partner school. We also encourage interested parents to participate in Phone Banking. If a school wants to find partners to leaflet at Back to School Nights, please contact your Delegate. Posting car signs in teachers’ cars during Back to School Night is very important – get signs from the MDEA office or make your own. Any group that wants to display the four large truck signs should make arrangements through MDEA.

What is Mediation?

During Mediation, both sides meet individually with a state appointed mediator, who attempts to find a resolution. When the mediator determines that no further progress is being made, he or she refers the partiess to the Fact Finding process.

What is Fact Finding?

During Fact Finding, the state appoints a Neutral. The District and MDEA each appoint a representative to the three person panel. Each side presents rationales in support of their position for settlement. The Neutral ultimately issues a report, which is non-binding on the parties and contains recommendations for the settlement. If the factfinding report does not form the basis for settlement between the parties, the Union is strike legal if the District attempts to impose their last best offer.

Can the district really afford to return to district-paid benefits?

Can they afford not to? The district budget allocates the $294 M revenue according to the priorities set by the Board. The district needs to reprioritize budget resources to ensure the District is able to attract and retain qualified teachers. While we acknowledge that such a large change is best done in phases, it is critical that the district make a commitment, develop a plan, and begin the process.

Is waiting for a Parcel Tax a good idea?

Some School Board Members are in favor of a Parcel Tax, which would provide additional revenue if approved. Many parents have indicated that they will not support a Parcel Tax until after the current Superintendent resigns in order to ensure that new monies are managed well. MDEA feels strongly that a Parcel Tax should not be relied upon to pay the costs of salaries and benefits.

I am a probationary employee. Can my principal threaten to fire me if she sees me participating in MDEA activities?

All U.S. Citizens have the right to participate in union activities. Any threats of retaliation or actual retaliation would be violations of the Education Employee Relations Act. If you suspect retaliation due to your participation in protected activities, contact MDEA immediately.

How can we avoid a strike?

Call Board Members now to explain the problem and let them know you are holding them accountable; talk with everyone you know about the situation; and participate in future actions.

What can I do to help?

Contact School Board Members, explain the situation to the parents of your students, attend PTA meetings to provide information, talk about the problem in the check-out line and with neighbors, write Letters to the Editor, hang signs in your cars, wear your “Teachers Are the Program” button

What difference will it make if I participate?

Each member’s actions make a difference. A union’s strength comes from the collected efforts of many members working together for a common goal. There are lots of different ways to participate: pick one and join in!

Sept. 8th Representative Assembly Highlights

2008-09-10T16:18:00.000-07:00

These are some highlights of what was discussed at the Rep Assembly on September 8th. It was originally an e-mail sent to Site Representatives by the MDEA office.

Affiliation with Central Labor Council
Yesterday the Executive Board recommended to the Rep Assembly that we join the Central Labor Council. The Council is countywide organizations that work together to protect and advocate for organized workers throughout the county. Your site rep has been asked to discuss this action with his/her site before the next Rep Assembly when we will decide if we will join. At the Rep Assembly we were asked to send out a list of other unions that are affiliated with the Council. When I went to their website, http://www.cocolabor.org/, I found close to a 100 affiliates. Instead of listing them all, I ask that you go to the website and click on “affiliates” under the main menu on the home page on the right to view them all. Below is a small list:

Amalgamated Transit Workers
Firefighters
American Postal Workers
Health Care Workers
Boilermaker Union
Ironworkers
California Community College Teachers
Newspaper Guild
California State Employees Assoc.
Office & Prof. Workers
Carpenters Union
Plumbers Union
Diablo Valley Federation of Teachers
United Food & Commercial Working
Electrical Workers
United Steel workers

Bargaining
The Bargaining Team is meeting with the district on Thursday, Sept 11. Since the state budget is still unresolved we will not be discussing total compensation at this meeting. The district wants to discuss possible language that will address the district’s inability to attract Speech Pathologist to our district. Currently the district is spending over two million dollars on private contractors. If we can come up with a plan to stop the encroachment on the general fund and shift any savings to our compensation package, this could be a win-win situation. We will keep you updated.

New Teacher Reception
On Tuesday, September 16 at the Shadelands Civic Art Center in Walnut Creek we will be holding a welcome reception for our new teachers. The event starts at 3:30. Remember to personally invite your new teachers. We want to help answer the many questions our new employees have and provide a social atmosphere where they can meet other new teachers. Please RSVP to Tanisha @ 676-4664.

Site Rep Training
We will be offering a rep training on Sat, October 11 from 8-10 at the MDEA Office. Please RSVP to Tanisha @ 676-4664.

Phone Banking/Precinct Walking
The upcoming School Board Election is very important and the results will have a major effect on our district. A change on the school board can be the catalyst for a more positive relationship between the teachers and the district leadership. If you aren’t happy with the current situation, we need your involvement in bringing about a needed change. Your rep has been given a scheduled date to phone bank and walk precincts for our endorsed candidates. Please arrange your schedule to be there on your scheduled days. Phone Banking will be Monday- Thurs, 5:00-8:45. Starting on September 22nd Orientation, training, and dinner will be provided. Precinct walking will be on Saturday from 9:00-12:00 and Sunday 3:00-5:30 starting on September 27. We all need to do what we can to help our candidates. If you’d like to hold a coffee for our candidates, let us know at 676-4664.

Class Size Grievances
Remember to file class size grievances on Monday, September 22nd. Write Level 2 on the top of the grievance form. Your office manager should have the forms. If not, copy the form from the contract appendix E. Ask you rep for assistance.

Attend Your Site MDEA Meeting
Your site reps will be holding a site based meeting to inform you of what was discussed at the Rep Assembly. Please attend to become informed on your rights as a member and on what is going on. Also check the MDEA Bulletin Board in your staff room. If you ever have questions please contact your site rep or call us in the office at 676-4664.

12 month vs. 10 month pay options 2008-09

2008-06-11T10:57:00.000-07:00

Do you prefer to be paid over 12 months instead of the 10 months we work? There are at least 2 options available to you.

1) Open an account with Provident.

2) Have the district withhold money from your paycheck each month during the year and then receive two checks during the summer. The 2008-2009 school year will see changes from the previous year in the calculated deducted amounts. According to Dick Nicoll from the District office, "We have offered to adjust summer pay so that take home pay would be equalized throughout the year, and the leadership of MDEA, DMA, and MDPSA have accepted. Beginning with the first paycheck for the 2008-09 year, employees listed above selecting summer pay will receive roughly the same amount of take home pay on all 12 checks."

Please note that if you want to choose this 12 month option, you must complete the necessary forms by September 15th, 2008.