KEEPING YOU INFORMED - Negotiations Update By Ruben Mancillas
The negotiating team met this week to work on our general survey, which will be sent to members in January.
The Governor will submit his initial budget to the legislature in January. Members of the negotiating team will attend the School Services budget workshop on January 22. That will give us a preview of the performance of state revenues and how, if any, surplus would be allocated. The COLA for this year is 1.07%. The COLA projection for 2025-2026 was 2.93%. Hopefully, positive economic trends will increase this number and give us more funding for the following year.
On page 33 of our contract, we have what is labeled as an Extra Pay for Extra Service Schedule, though I tend to refer to it as our stipend schedule. During a previous bargaining session, the team was able to add letter Q. on page 28 to our contract:
Beginning July 1, 2023, stipends will increase annually by ½ of the percentage of any on-schedule salary increase to the Certificated Member’s Salary Schedule for TK-12/Nurses.
This mechanism, sometimes referred to as an escalator clause, provides a formula for increasing the amount of our stipends on an ongoing basis.
This year, Human Resources will be asking for input regarding stipends that we can use at the bargaining table. I refer to these as stipend subcommittees, and the model for this initial year will be to use each site’s leadership team to make recommendations for what positions need to be added or deleted or what existing stipends need to be augmented. The goal is to have a stipend schedule that reflects the reality at the sites. Are the proper titles being used? Is the amount sufficient to deal with the responsibilities for that particular extra duty? If it is commonly understood that a stipend is listed as one thing but used for another purpose, let’s take this opportunity to “clean up” the schedule and make it more accurate. This exercise also lends itself to a discussion of adjunct duties. Is there an extra duty which is currently listed as an adjunct duty which would be more appropriate to recognize with a stipend? Knowing what we are dealing with will make it easier for us to make needed adjustments. Please work with your site’s leadership team to provide this much-needed input to your respective stipend subcommittees.
I hope members had a good Fall break. I was fortunate to go out to see Gladiator II with my kids and then have them inform me of every historical inaccuracy we just witnessed! ABCFT teachers and nurses have two more full weeks until Winter break begins. There is a lot of work and accompanying pressure, but remember your positive impact on our students and community. There are so many challenges, and the struggles we encounter are real. But our collective strength is mighty. I am consistently impressed at the energy and innovation of our members. Remember to know when to call a win a win and when to acknowledge a job well done!
In Unity,
YOUR ABC HEALTH RESOURCES
Monthly Health Topic Click here for Flier
Setting New Year Goals
Here are some articles to help your members to plan for their well-being
Neuroscience Explains Why You Need To Write Down Your Goals If You Actually Want To Achieve Them
8 examples of health goals (and how to set your own) — Calm Blog
An easier way to set and achieve health goals - Harvard Health
ACADEMIC SERVICES UPDATE
This month’s academic service update is vital for all teachers. We hope you will take a moment to look at this monthly report, which discusses changes in academic services that could impact your classroom. This document provides the union with a means of giving the District feedback on the many programs or changes they are proposing at any time. Without your feedback or questions on these changes, it is harder for ABCFT to slow down and modify the district’s neverending rollout of new projects. Please submit your comments and questions to the appropriate ABCFT liaison.
For Elementary curricular issues, please email Megan at Megan.Mitchell@abcusd.us , For Secondary curricular issues, please email Catherine at Catherine.Pascual@abcusd.us,
for Secondary PAL topics please email Megan at Megan.Harding@abcusd.us ,
Special Education PAL topics please email Brittney at Brittney.Parker-Goodin@abcusd.us if you have any questions or concerns.
Click Here For This Month’s Full Report
ABCFT PRESIDENT’S REPORT - Ray Gaer
Consistent and regular communication is a union’s most important tool for advocating for its members at the bargaining table. Every conversation with members is focused on the result of negotiating for the future prosperity and well-being of ALL ABCFT members. This weekly report informs members about issues impacting their working/learning conditions and mental well-being. Our work as a Union is a larger conversation and united, we make the YOUnion.
I hope all of you had a great Thanksgiving hiatus and are working toward that next vacation. Secondary teachers are finishing the first semester so they are focused on finals and grades and the prompting for missing assignments. Elementary teachers have been administering the Whitney reading assessment (with some technical challenges), juggling interventions, and preparing students for the next benchmark testing. Nurses and all itinerants work with their special populations through evaluations, IEPs, and IEP benchmark reporting. People are working hard. Good things happen in a district when the car's wheels all turn in the same direction.
I am attending a CFT president's training and learning from looking at other locals’ contracts and picking the brains of how locals navigate many educational challenges with students in our classrooms and schools. I’ll have a full report next week, but I wanted to acknowledge that educators across the district and the country are working hard for students and their families. Public education is in your hands.
Have a great weekend!
In YOUnity,
Ray Gaer
President, ABCFT
CALIFORNIA FEDERATION OF TEACHERS
Introducing CFT’s Newest Task Force: Educators for Quality Schools
Members of a new CFT task force have been working on coming up with actions, both legislation and bargaining, to address the problem of understaffing in schools.
Prior to the formation of the task force, EC/TK-12 Council President Steve McDougall says he and CFT President Jeff Freitas discussed the importance of addressing the issue of understaffing.
The latest CFT articles and news stories can be found here on the PreK12 news feed on the CFT.org website.
AMERICAN FEDERATION OF TEACHERS
Press Release
AFT President Randi Weingarten on Nomination of Linda McMahon as Secretary of Education
WASHINGTON—In response to President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of Linda McMahon to lead the Department of Education, AFT President Randi Weingarten issued the following statement:
“While the job of education secretary should not be a consolation prize, we are pleased that Linda McMahon wanted to teach in her early life and that her work on the Connecticut State Board of Education led to her interest in literacy and building career pathways.
“We will try to work with anyone who puts the aspirations of our students, families and communities first. That means strengthening public education, not undermining it. Voters made it clear that’s what they wanted in November’s down-ballot elections.
“We look forward to learning more about Linda McMahon, and if she is confirmed, we will reach out to her as we did with Betsy DeVos at the beginning of her tenure. We hope Donald Trump means it when he says he wants a focus on project-based instruction, career and technical education and apprenticeships. This will improve education and job options, making schools more relevant and engaging for young people.
“But we question the future of these popular ideas and more if the Trump administration follows through with plans to close the Department of Education, leaving in doubt a federal-funding lifeline that disproportionately goes to children in need, children with disabilities and young adults who are the first in their families to go to college.
“And college has always been the engine to innovation and opportunity in America, to individual growth and improvement, as well as strengthening communities, which is why we fight so hard for young people to be able to attend without pauperizing student debt, and for educators to have the academic freedom and supports they need for our young people to soar.
"Families with wealth may be able to cover these college and university costs, but not the working-class and middle-class families that we serve every day and have the honor to represent. And speaking of my members, they have always wanted and understood the importance of local schools and local control, not state control. They want the latitude to teach, not test, to meet their students' needs.
"They are asking, 'Who's going to fund services for kids with special needs in Mississippi? What happens to poor kids in South Dakota, Montana and Alaska? How do we ensure there is funding to prepare students for career opportunities? For college?
“Will Linda McMahon support us as we teach students to read? Will she protect kids and families so that everyone in a school feels welcome and can learn?’
“We don’t know the answers to these questions. And while we expect that we will disagree with Linda McMahon on many issues, our devotion to kids requires us to work together on policies that can improve the lives of students, their families, their educators and their communities.”
Follow AFT President Randi Weingarten: http://twitter.com/rweingarten
----- NEWS STORY HIGHLIGHT-----
New TIMSS report suggests U.S. students still struggling post-pandemic
The latest Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) reveals that U.S. students are falling behind their international peers in math and science. The 2023 results show significant declines, with 4th graders' math scores dropping 18 points and 8th graders' scores falling 27 points since 2019. Peggy Carr, commissioner of the National Center for Education Statistics, stated, “Progress in prior years has been erased.” While U.S. students still score above the international average, countries like Poland, Sweden, and Australia have surpassed them in some subjects. The widening achievement gaps between high- and low-performing students are particularly concerning, with American 4th graders at the 10th percentile seeing a 37-point drop in math scores. The report highlights a troubling trend, as U.S. education struggles to keep pace with global standards.
Wall Street Journal Education Week News
----- NATIONAL NEWS -----
Study reveals school time impacts grades
According to research by Matthew A. Kraft from Brown University and Sarah Novacoff from Stanford University, students who spend less time in school tend to achieve lower academic results. Their findings, published in Education Next, highlight significant variations in school hours across states and types. For instance, students in Texas and Arkansas spend over 1,300 hours in class annually, while those in Hawaii and Nevada attend for less than 1,150 hours. The study also notes that students in suburban schools attend about 38 hours less than their urban and rural counterparts, and charter school students typically have 65 more hours of instruction. Additionally, students on a four-day school week attend about 85 hours less per year, leading to declines in math and reading scores. The researchers concluded that disruptions like snow days and strikes further negatively impact academic performance.
----- STATE NEWS -----
Free speech battles erupt in California colleges
In California, community colleges are facing a wave of lawsuits from conservative professors and students asserting their rights to free speech. Since 2020, at least seven cases have emerged, primarily in Republican-leaning areas, alleging that diversity, equity, and inclusion programs infringe upon First Amendment rights. Daniel Ortner, an attorney with the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, stated that these cases reflect a broader trend of enforcing conformity on controversial topics. Notably, the Kern Community College District recently settled with Professor Matthew Garrett for $2.4m over claims of censorship. Eloy Ortiz Oakley, former chancellor of the community college system, emphasized the importance of creating inclusive environments, stating: “Students must experience campus and classroom cultures that they feel they can belong to.” As these legal battles unfold, they highlight the ongoing tension between free speech and institutional policies in higher education.
State education funding priorities revealed
The Fort Worth Star-Telegram highlights analysis by Study.com of the United States Census Bureau's Public Elementary-Secondary Education Finance Data from 2022 and 2023, looking at how different states allocate resources to public schools and their differing funding priorities. The figures show that California was just outside the top 10 for per-pupil spend, at $18,906 per pupil, with the fourth-biggest year-on-year increase, at $1,856.56 per pupil. California's 2023 budget, it notes, included a significant cost-of-living adjustment and $20m to help train more bilingual teachers. The piece notes that different states focused funding in different areas - with more money for educational equity in Michigan, early childhood education in Minnesota, and school choice and voucher programs in Florida and North Carolina. With many areas facing difficulties hiring and retaining teachers, different states have also responded in different ways, by easing licensing requirements, or increasing funding for training.
----- DISTRICTS -----
Salinas superintendent's sudden exit raises eyebrows
The Salinas Union High School District has announced the unexpected departure of former Superintendent Dan Burns, who was recently appointed to a special assignment role. The decision follows significant criticism from teachers and the Salinas Valley Federation of Teachers regarding the board's choice to retain Burns after hiring new Superintendent Dr. Zandra Jo Galván. Burns' contract, which began on October 1, was set to last until June 30, 2027, with a base salary of $307,172. In a statement, Galván expressed gratitude for Burns' eight years of service, noting: "We extend our heartfelt thanks to Mr. Burns for his service, dedication, and valuable contributions to our district." The district highlighted Burns' leadership in various initiatives, including staff housing and technology advancements.
Alum Rock schools face major cuts
Alum Rock USD has decided to close six campuses for the upcoming school year, including Sylvia Cassell and Horace Cureton elementary schools, as well as Joseph George Middle School. This decision comes as the district grapples with a $20m budget deficit and declining enrollment. The consolidation committee initially proposed closing or consolidating 13 schools to address financial challenges, but an alternative plan was approved unanimously, sparing some institutions. As reported by the San Jose Spotlight, the district will also close two additional schools next year, merging and relocating several programs.
----- TECHNOLOGY -----
Navigating AI in schools
The U.S. Department of Education has introduced new resources aimed at helping schools navigate the complexities of artificial intelligence (AI). These resources address critical issues, such as the potential misuse of AI detection tools that may wrongly accuse students of plagiarism. Pat Yongpradit, chief academic officer at Code.org, emphasized the need for nuanced discussions about AI, stating: “We really need to move beyond AI is bad [or] AI is good, and get super nuanced about the proper and improper uses of AI in education.” The resources include a toolkit developed with Digital Promise, featuring eight modules that cover AI risk mitigation and strategies for effective integration into instruction. The guidance aims to foster AI literacy among educators while highlighting the risks of discrimination that could arise from improper AI use in schools.
----- WORKFORCE ----
Teachers reluctant to take sick days
Research suggests teachers often find it challenging to take sick leave due to various pressures, including the need to secure substitutes and the burden placed on colleagues. A November 2023 working paper revealed that teachers are less likely to request time off compared to other professions, with 78% of 1,500 surveyed educators feeling they cannot take advantage of sick leave. Many teachers expressed that preparing for a substitute and catching up afterward often outweighs the benefits of staying home. One teacher commented: “Being absent is more work than just going in sick most times.” Additionally, factors like attendance incentives and district policies further discourage teachers from taking necessary time off. Despite supportive administrators, the pressure to be present remains a significant hurdle for educators.
----- FINANCE -----
California Schools Chief vows to resist funding cuts
California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond has expressed strong opposition to President-elect Donald Trump's stated intention to abolish the U.S. Department of Education, calling it a “clear threat to what our students need.” During a news conference in Sacramento, Thurmond highlighted concerns that such a move could jeopardize approximately $8bn in federal funding for programs aiding students with disabilities and those in low-income schools. He emphasized the importance of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, which ensures students in special education receive a “free and appropriate education.” Thurmond also noted that the California Department of Education is preparing for potential funding cuts and is working on a backup plan to support essential programs. Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi echoed the sentiment, urging all educators and representatives to unite in defense of vulnerable students. “When we are facing a bully who is targeting our most vulnerable students, we all need to stand up,” he stated.
Conflict over race, LGBTQ issues cost schools more than $3 billion last school year
Uncivil discourse and hostile rhetoric has divided school communities, disrupted school board meetings and cost districts a combined $3.2 billion last school year, according to recently released research.
Conflicts between parents, teachers and school leaders over parental rights policies focusing on LGBTQ+ students, limitations on teaching about race and racism, and book bans have come with a cost — both socially and financially.
The conflicts are disrupting school districts, negatively impacting schools and classrooms, and costing districts money that could be used to better serve students, according to “The Costs of Conflict, The Fiscal Impact of Culturally Divisive Conflicts on Public Schools in the United States,” released last month.
Researchers from UCLA, the University of Texas at Austin, American University and UC Riverside conducted a national survey of K-12 public school superintendents from 46 states — 467 in all — and found that these conflicts are prevalent.
----- LEGAL -----
U.S. Supreme Court Takes Up E-Rate Case
The U.S. Supreme Court is to hear a cased questioning the constitutionality of the funding mechanism for the Universal Service Fund, a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program requiring companies to subsidize telecommunications services in underserved areas. The fund helps to extend service to people in rural areas, provides subsidies for low-income Americans, expands service in Native American tribal lands and assists schools and libraries, and distributes around $4 billion annually under the E-rate program. On Friday, the justices granted appeals under the FCC and the Schools, Health, and Libraries Coalition of a federal appeals court ruling that struck down the funding mechanism as a "misbegotten" and unconstitutional tax on consumers. "For decades, there has been broad, bipartisan support for the Universal Service Fund and the FCC programs that help communications reach the most rural and least-connected households in the United States, as well as hospitals, schools, and libraries nationwide," said FCC chair Jessica Rosenworcel. "I am hopeful that the Supreme Court will overturn the decision that put this vital system at risk." The case will likely be argued next March or April, and decided by the end of the current term in June.
New York Times NBC News Reuters Education Week
New Jersey schools ruled not liable for teachers' actions
In a significant ruling, a New Jersey appellate court has determined that two school districts, South Orange-Maplewood and Upper Freehold Regional, cannot be held vicariously liable for the alleged sexual abuse committed by their teachers. Attorney John Baldante stated: “The question is whether or not there's vicarious liability,” highlighting the court's focus on this legal aspect. While the districts are not absolved of negligent supervision claims, the court's decision prevents lawsuits based on the teachers' conduct during the alleged assaults. The cases stem from lawsuits filed by former students, including allegations against teacher Nicole Dufault, who pleaded guilty to aggravated criminal sexual contact in 2020. The ruling may be appealed to the state Supreme Court, as attorneys for the former students seek further legal recourse.
----- CHILD DEVELOPMENT ----
ADHD diagnosis trends: a closer look
Between 1997 and 2022, ADHD diagnoses among children and adolescents surged by over 85%. The reasons for this increase remain unclear, but factors such as changing behavioral expectations, heightened awareness, and the impact of social media are considered. Notably, white children are diagnosed more frequently than their Black, Asian, and Hispanic counterparts, which may indicate underdiagnosis in these groups due to healthcare access issues and clinician bias. A 2021 study published in JAMA Network revealed that while white children are diagnosed more often, this does not imply a higher prevalence of ADHD. The article emphasizes that "ADHD is highly treatable when properly diagnosed," yet many children struggle without support due to diagnostic disparities. Addressing these inequalities is crucial for improving access to care and support for all children.
----- HEALTH & WELLBEING -----
Concerns increase over chronic absenteeism
Since the pandemic, student absenteeism has surged, with over 25% of students classified as "chronically absent" during the 2021-2022 school year, a significant rise from 15% pre-pandemic. The White House has recognized the issue, labeling it a top priority for American schools, as absenteeism correlates with declining reading and math scores. A recent study published in Educational Researcher, co-authored by Michael Gottfried from the University of Pennsylvania, reveals that higher student absenteeism negatively impacts teacher job satisfaction. The study highlights that absenteeism exacerbates the existing teacher shortage, as educators feel demoralized and unsupported. Experts say addressing absenteeism requires not only getting students back to class but also providing better support for teachers, such as tutoring and instructional assistance.
----- OTHER -----
At NTA Life, we’re here to provide extra peace of mind with individual supplemental benefits that offer tax-free financial support directly to you or your loved ones. Our benefits are designed to go above and beyond your major medical insurance, helping cover things like deductibles, co-pays, and those unexpected expenses that can come up during an illness or injury. We offer the following programs:
- Cancer Coverage
- Heart Coverage
- Hospital Coverage
- Accident Coverage
- Disability Coverage
- Life Insurance
- Specified Disease Coverage – which even comes with a return of premium after 20 years!
The best part? Most of our benefits are guaranteed renewable for life, meaning you can keep them even if you switch districts or retire.
We’re so thankful for the strong partnership we have with ABCFT, and we look forward to continuing to support and serve your incredible educators.
If you’d like to learn more, feel free to reach out anytime:
- Leann Blaisdell: 562-822-5004 | leann.blaisdell@horacemann.com
- Shannon Donovan: 714-727-8261 | shannon.donovan@horacemann.com
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