Happy Thanksgiving. I hope every member takes a chance to recharge over the short holiday break as we come toward the homestretch of 2018. It has been a challenging year for many members and this short break comes at a much needed time. With so much going on and more on the horizon, we need to make sure we take care of ourselves.
Yesterday, we received notice of our salary for this school year from Human Resources. The reality continues to set in that we are working without our step increase this year. I would caution everyone that this is not reflective of anything that has come from bargaining. When we reach an agreement with the school district on a new contract, part of that discussion will revolve around retro pay for a step increase for this school year. In addition, we have heard from multiple members that they are finding errors in the number of years or level of education listed. If you find yours to be incorrect, please send an email to U-46 Human Resources at HumanResources@u-46.org and CC me on the email.
That being said, next week when we return from break we will have our November RA at Elgin Community College on Wednesday, November 28. An official agenda will be out early next week but we will be talking about our next potential steps in regards to bargaining. A number of members continue to ask about taking a strike vote, filing an Unfair Labor Practice with the Illinois Labor Relations Board, or moving forward on our grievance in regards to the withholding of our step at the beginning of the year. We will explain all of this, as well as give you the opportunity to discuss these topics and more with your Section Directors. The most important thing to remember is that no matter what we do, our bargaining team has to go to the table to reach an agreement and we intend to do just that. Our team has put in a number of hours already and we have more scheduled. These spots fill up fast, so If you are interested in attending a bargaining session that will take place after school, be sure to email me with the date as soon as possible. The upcoming bargaining dates are;
November 27, 8:30-3:00 PM
December 6, 8:30-2:30 PM
December 11, 4:00-8:00 PM
December 12, 8:30-2:30 PM
December 17, 8:30-2:30 PM
January 10, 4:00-8:00 PM
January 11, 8:30-2:30 PM
January 15, 4:00-8:00 PM,
January 22, 4:00-8:00 PM
January 28, 8:30-2:30 PM
January 30, 4:00-8:00 PM
Only 4:00-8:00 times are available for ETA members to observe.
I am thankful for every single member of the Elgin Teachers Association. No matter the challenges and obstacles you face, you report every single day, maintaining an incredible level of professionalism, and working hard to educate our students. Thank you for all that you do.
Have a happy Thanksgiving,
Barb Bettis
ETA President