In response to recent WTC actions, the Board last night voted unanimously to support a motion requiring approval for cancellation of class trips, celebrations and other activities. By requiring advance notice of any proposed cancellations/alterations, the Board hopes to allow parents an opportunity to step in to maintain the events that might otherwise fall victim to the NFT's working strike.One parent made an interesting observation during public comment. He noted that while the regular teachers are obeying the NFT's orders not to participate in extras, one of the NFT negotiators will be enjoying a high school trip next year to a rather desirable overseas location without having to pay a dime for airfare or accommodations. The parent said this was an example of how union leaders weren't fair in their treatment of the rank and file.
Another noteworthy point from last night is that teachers will not be taking part in the District's annual Veteran's Day events. Despite this, veterans will still be honored at special programs held at two of our schools.This Fox 29 report contains reaction from local Vets regarding the NFT's decision to not honor our country's veterans . . .
5 comments:
The NFT, in its ongoing negotiating strategies, has sunk to a new low. Not only is it shortchanging our children in the quality of their educations, now it shortchanges the vets who fought for the very freedom the NFT claims to be exercising in its "negotiating" strategies in this contract dispute.
As to the resolution at last night's board meeting, congrats to the school board for another example of (in the words of Louise Boyd) the school board's policy of "take it or leave it." Hopefully, at some point, the teachers will begin to see that they are being grossly misguided and that it is time to take it.
William, When will administration start doing the job of taking back our schools from Louise, Anne and May et al?
Ms. Sweinberg, I don't think either side is approaching this correctly.
But, what are the teachers accepting? Has the board clearly presented the health plan they are offering? Did the board research what percentage other Bucks County and PA school districts are paying to ensure they are competative?
If they had, then the NFT would have less leverage.
Langhorne, I am comfortable with and impressed with the way the Board is handling these negotiations. Nothing I have read indicates that the NFT is alleging that the Board's offer is unclear or that it is not competitive, just that it is not enough. In fact, everything I have read indicates that the teachers in the NSD are among the highest paid in the state. You seem to imply otherwise...do you have a factual basis for this? Just wondering...
Ms. Sweinberg, I agree that teacher salaries are currently competative from a comparison with Pennsbury and CB School district. As far as health benefits, Centennial pays 10% and Pennsbury 11%. This is only a small sample, but I feel asking 15,16 & finally 17% is not competative.
The teacher's have been concerned they they have not been presented with a Summary Plan Description (SPD) of what the Board is offering.
Again, I don't think either side has taken the steps necessary to move the negotiations.
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