A General Membership Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Sunday, September 7, 2008 at 3:00 P.M. at Scranton High School.

President Rosemary Boland called the meeting to order at 3:10 P.M. Those in attendance was led in the Pledge of Allegiance by President Boland.

A motion to dispense with the reading of the Minutes was made by K. Secor and seconded by L. Kurpis. Motion carried.

A motion to dispense with the Treasurer’s Report was made by Bob Boland and seconded by M. Coyne. Motion was approved.

President Boland, at this time offered special thanks to the following for their work during the SFT’s recent contract negotiations – P. McDonough, M. Loftus, J. Gammaitoni, P. Festa, G. Mulrine, L. Babarsky, B. Chamoni, J. Chickillo and the entire Executive Committee.

President Boland gave a brief update of the status of the Paraprofessionals’ Contract negotiations. She made note that the paras needed the membership’s support in order to get their contract completed. At this time, the membership showed their support for the paraprofessionals of the Scranton School District.

At 3:30P.M., a PowerPoint Presentation began. This presentation presented all pertinent details of the tentative agreement reached between the Scranton Federation of Teachers and the Scranton School Board. In addition to the slide show, members received color coded papers addressing the following – language changes in the contract, health care plan changes, hourly rate changes and compensations for class coverage changes, salary changes, coaches’ salaries and club hours.

During this presentation, it was noted that all aspects of contract changes were presented, that overall, this was a balanced contract with a consideration for all, and attention was paid to surveys from the previous school year.

Then, a motion was made to ratify the contract by many members and seconded by many members.

President Boland announced that at this time there would be an intermission for members to review the information they had received. Secret ballot voting would be held and would end at 5:45 P.M. Finally, tabulation of the votes would take place.

The contract agreement was ratified by the membership. The official vote count for ratification was 563 Yes, 30 No, and 1 Abstention.

A motion to adjourn was made by K. Secor and seconded by many members. Meeting adjourned at 6:00 P.M.

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The Executive Committee Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Wednesday, September 17, 2008 at 3:50P.M. The meeting was called to order by President Rosemary Boland.

Members present: R. Boland, J. Gammaitoni, D. Walter, P. Festa, P. McDonough, K. Waltz, M. Byron, V. Wojnar, A. Trapani, J. Vitris, M. Wazowicz, J. Zaleski, K. Beckwith, K. Opshinsky, A. Geiger, J. Baldauff, M. Loftus, K. Kays, G. Mulrine, M. Doran

President Boland began a COPE meeting at 3:50 P.M. Political matters were discussed at this time pertaining to the upcoming Presidential and Congressional elections. A motion to adjourn this meeting was made at 4:00 P.M. Motion was approved.

President Boland called the Executive Committee into an Executive session at 4:00 P.M.

During the rest of the regular Executive Committee meeting, the following matters were discussed:

The new 3 tier drug prices and deductible will begin November 1, 2008. This Nov.1 deductible goes until Dec. 31, 2008. A new deductible period will begin Jan. 1, 2009 and end on Dec. 31, 2009.

A question was asked about retirees and the effect of the new health care terms of this contract on them. President Boland stated that you retire under the terms of the contract that is in effect at your retirement date. The District will be sending new Health Insurance rates as usual to the retirees at the start of 2009.

G. Mulrine mentioned the problems of overbooking at Scranton High School the night of their Back to School Night and asked about what could be done to avoid this in the future.

V. Wojnar brought the correcting of the 4Sight tests by Math and English teachers at the High School to the Board’s attention. President Boland stated that this was supposed to have been corrected by Mr. King. Mr. Gammaitoni would speak to Mr. Paris about this issue.

K. Kays made a motion that the Executive Board give President Boland the authority to set dates for General Membership Meetings. This was seconded by J. Gammaitoni. Motion was approved. Membership meetings will be held in November, February, March and early May.

A Fall Party date was set for Saturday, October 18, 2008 from 6 to 10 at St. George’s Hall on Keyser Avenue. Further details would be going to the schools.

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A meeting of the Executive Committee was called to order by President Rosemary Boland at 3:35 P.M. on Monday, September 29, 2008 at Scranton High School.

Members present: K. Kays, M. Loftus, K. Waltz, G. Mulrine, J. Gammaitoni, M. Doran, R. Boland, P. Festa, P. McDonough, M. Byron, A. Trapani, J. Vitris, D. Walter,

President Boland stated that a Powerpoint presentation of the new Para professionals Contract would be shown at their meeting. A motion was made by K. Waltz and seconded by P. Festa that there would be a unanimous motion of recommendation for the paraprofessional contract. Motion passed unanimously.

The date of the Fall Party was changed to Friday, October 24, 2008 due to a booking conflict. A motion was made by J. Gammaitoni and seconded by G. Mulrine that the cost of the party is $10.00 for active and retired members and $15.00 for guests. The total cost of the party is $25.00 and $15.00 will be paid by the SFT Treasury.

A motion was made by P. Festa and seconded by K. Beckwith to nominate Jennifer Telesco to complete the term of Bob Montgomery on the Executive Committee. Motion passed.

President Boland gave a brief update on outstanding grievances at Armstrong School, Bancroft School and Morris School.

President Boland also reminded everyone that school computers should only be used for school business.

A motion to adjourn was made by K. Waltz and seconded by J. Baldauff. Meeting adjourned at 4:00 P.M.

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The meeting of the Paraprofessionals of the Scranton Federation of Teachers for the purpose of Contract Ratification was held on Monday, September 29, 2008 at 4:00 P.M. at Scranton High School.

The meeting was called to order at 4:05 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland. Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough acknowledged the work of the Executive Committee and in particular J. Vitris and A. Trapani in obtaining a tentative agreement. Mr. McDonough also stated that legal representation was present at all negotiating sessions.

A PowerPoint presentation was given addressing this tentative contract agreement showing language changes, health care information, salaries and other issues. Members also received color coded papers with this information.

President Boland summarized the presentation by stating that there were significant language changes, significant rate changes for health care insurance, changes for hourly rate, changes in the retirement incentive and a change in the life insurance policy.

A secret ballot vote was then taken to ratify the contract with the following results:

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The Executive Committee Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Wednesday, November 5, 2008. President Rosemary Boland called the meeting to order at 3:55 P.M.

Members present: R. Boland, P. McDonough, K. Waltz, J. Telesco, A. Geiger, V. Wojnar, J. Baldauff, D. Walter, K. Beckwith, K. Kays, M. Byron, J. Zaleski, M. Doran, G. Mulrine, M. Wazowicz.

Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough distributed several sets of Executive Committee Minutes to the members present. The first minutes presented were those of the September 3, 2008 meeting. After examination by the Committee, a motion to approve these minutes was made by K. Waltz and seconded by P. Festa. Minutes were approved.

The next minutes were those from the Executive Committee Meeting held on September 17, 2008. A motion to approve these minutes was made by V. Wojnar and seconded by K. Kays. Minutes were approved. The last minutes to be distributed were those from the meeting held on September 29, 2008. A motion to accept these minutes was made by K. Kays and seconded by K. Beckwith.

Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough began his report with the results of the recent audit. This report was distributed to the members and the findings were explained by Mr. McDonough. The following motion was made by K. Waltz, Trustee and seconded by

M. Loftus, Trustee -that the audit letter of October 23, 2008, with accompanying statements of financial positions, and statement of chargeable and non-chargeable expenses conducted by John Feldman, CPA, Financial Services Department of the AFT be accepted by the Executive Committee. Motion passed.

Mr. McDonough also presented the proposed SFT Budget for the 2008-2009 year. The following motion was made by K. Waltz and seconded by M. Byron – that the Proposed Budget for 2008-2009 be adopted by the Executive Committee. Motion passed.

Mr. McDonough discussed the increase in dues payments to both AFT and AFT-PA and its effect on the income of our Local.

Mr. McDonough discussed the present salaries paid to several SFT officers. He made note that the present salary schedule is still below the salaries paid in the past.

The following motion was made by K. Waltz and seconded by M. Loftus – that the following salary increases for SFT officers be adopted by the Executive Committee effective November 2008:

Mr. McDonough gave a report on the recent Fall Party held on October 24, 2008. The cost for the party was about $3700.00. $1700.00 was collected and $2000.00 was paid by the SFT.

The recent passing of Sallyanne Mariani, former SFT member and wife of the SFT’s former attorney Robert Mariani was mentioned by Mr. McDonough. A motion was made by P. McDonough and seconded by P. Festa to transfer $100.00 from the general fund to the Scholarship Fund in her memory and that notice would be sent to Atty. Mariani. The Marianis’ daughter was a recent recipient of one of our scholarships.

It was also noted that Mr. McDonough and Mr. Gammaitoni, now retired from the Scranton School District, are paying union dues, based on their last final salary. The payments will be made once each month.

M. Loftus made the following motion which was seconded by K. Kays - that the SFT would award one Scholarship at each of the high schools. G. Mulrine made a motion which was seconded by K. Beckwith, to table this motion until a later time when the SFT would have a better idea of funds from student teachers assigned to the District from the various Universities/Colleges in the area.

December 10 will be an Arbitration hearing on the use of specialist teachers to cover classes, instead of using a rotation or regular education teachers.

Another item set for arbitration is the salary/wages for the paraprofessionals and the issue of 16 steps in the salary scale.

Other topics discussed were – changing of paraprofessional schedules, clerical work being done in offices by paraprofessionals, redirection of paraprofessionals to classes other than their own.

President Boland acknowledged the following members for their hard work on the recent SFT Fall Party – special thanks was given to M. Byron, P. Festa, Kim Gnall and others who made the evening so enjoyable.

President Boland extended a welcome to Jennifer Telesco, a new Executive Committee member representing elementary teachers. Jennifer will complete the term of

President Boland announced that there would be a guest speaker at the November 12, 2008 General Membership Meeting. Mr. Bill Cockerill from the Scranton Central Labor Union will speak to the membership about the present LUW campaign.

The officers will be having another meeting with Mr. Vail concerning the Club hours.

A question was asked about copy limits and were they still in effect in the various schools. Each school seems to have its own regulations.

The summer course for paraprofessionals will move the Paras to Step 10. Paras that presently have a certificate from the State will have this certificate honored.

A motion was made by V. Wojnar and seconded by P. Festa , that the SFT request new Plan books from Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Motion passed.

A motion to adjourn was made by K. Kays and seconded by J. Zaleski. Motion passed.

President Boland announced that the SFT had received an e-mail from Barack Obama thanking everyone for their efforts in the recent election. AFT President Randy Weingarten and AFT-PA President Ted Kirsch also sent thank-yous for all the work done by both active and retired SFT members.

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The General Membership Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Wednesday, November 12, 2008 at Scranton High School. The meeting was called to order at 3:50 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland.

President Boland led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance. President Boland asked for a moment of silence in memory of Mary Badyrka, a faculty member at West Scranton Intermediate School and in memory of Sallyanne Price Mariani, a former teacher in the District and wife of Attorney Robert Mariani.

Then President Boland called for a special order of the day to accommodate a guest speaker, Mr. Bill Cockerill. Mr. Cockerill, Treasurer of the Scranton Central Labor Union, spoke to the membership on behalf of the Lackawanna United Way Campaign. Mr. Cockerill mentioned several programs that benefit from the donations for LUW. – Success by 6 Program, the Low Income Heating Emergency Assistance Program.

Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough gave brief summaries of the minutes from the following meeting dates –

May 22, 2008 – A motion to accept the minutes was made by K. Secor and seconded by S. Rybitski. Motion passed.

August 19, 2008 – A motion to accept the minutes was made by G. Pugh and seconded by F. Regan. Motion passed.

September 7, 2008 –Ratification of the Teacher contract - A motion to accept the minutes was made by several members and seconded by S. Durkin. Motion passed.

September 29, 2008 – Ratification of the Paraprofessional contract- A motion to accept the minutes was made by M. Foley and seconded by B. Jordan. Motion passed.

Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough reported on the Audit results which have recently been completed for the year July 1, 2007 – June 30, 2008. Mr. McDonough also reported on these additional items – the Fair Share audit, the tentative budget passed by the Executive Committee for the 2008-2009 year, the dues distribution to AFT and AFT-PA, and the costs associated with the SFT Fall Party held on October 24, 2008.

President R. Boland reported on the status of some ongoing grievances and arbitrations.

Grievances were discussed the use of paraprofessionals at Armstrong School and Bancroft School, and teacher letter of reprimand.

Arbitrations are filed concerning use of specialist teachers to cover classes, and the paraprofessional salary step issue.

Second Vice-President P. Festa reported on the purchase of SFT bulletin boards for schools which currently do not have bulletin boards. He asked that he be informed if a building was in need of a bulletin board.

Trustee K. Waltz addressed the assembly about the need for updating addresses and phone numbers, especially for use in the global connect system.

President Boland reported that the Fall Party held at St. George’s Hall was a success thanks in no small measure to Marissa Byron, Kim Gnall, Pat Festa and mostly importantly the members who came to celebrate our contracts and union spirit. The fifty-fifty raised $186.00 for the Scholarship fund. President Boland thanked again all who were able to attend.

President Boland reported that the District has a newly revised Sexual Harassment Policy and it should have been distributed to everyone the first day of school. She advised that everyone familiarize himself/herself with the policy.

A question was asked as to who was now in charge of the ESL department. L. Kurpis responded that she was informed that four people are handling the ESL department – Personnel is L. Paris; Scheduling is J. Leitzel; Materials is Amelia; Money is N. Hlavaty.

K. Secor asked about the investigation into various financial issues by J. Gould of the AFT. President Boland was still waiting for information from the District concerning the 2007 audit.

Questions were also answered about 4 Sight corrections, legal fees involved with Arbitrations and curriculum changes.

President Boland announced the dates for the February, March and May General Membership meetings. Agendas for these meetings were also announced. February’s meeting will include nominations of officers and conference delegates; the March meeting will be the election of officers and delegates.

A motion to adjourn was made by P. Tunney and seconded by K. Bharkhda. Meeting adjourned at 5:15 P.M.

A COPE meeting was convened at 5:15 P.M. President Boland congratulated all who had participated in this recent historic election. She gave particular thanks to the Retiree Chapter and especially to President Carol Conaboy for their many hours of work. President Boland thanked all members who participated in labor walks, phone calling, canvassing, mailing and voting.

A motion to adjourn was made by C. Evans and seconded by B. Roditski. The COPE meeting adjourned at 5:20 P.M.

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Executive Committee Meeting – January 14, 2009

The Executive Committee Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Wednesday, January 14, 2009. The meeting was called to order at 3:48 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland.

Members present: R. Boland, J. Gammaitoni, V. Wojnar, G. Mulrine, P. McDonough, K. Waltz, J. Baldauff, M. Doran, D. Walter, M. Byron, K. Opshinsky, M. Wazowicz, A. Geiger, K. Beckwith, P. Festa, J. Telesco, A. Trapani, and K. Kays

Excused: J. Zaleski, M. Loftus

Secretary’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough distributed the minutes from the December Executive Committee Meeting to those present. Hearing no additions or corrections, a motion was made by G. Mulrine and seconded by M. Byron to approve the minutes as written. Motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report

The financial report of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was distributed and an explanation was provided by Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough. This report is on file at the SFT office.

Mr. McDonough also reported on the following:

Receipt of a thank-you note from the Little Sisters of the Poor for a recent donation.

A thank-you from Bill Cockerill for the contributions made by the members of the SFT to the recent United Way Campaign.

A request from the Lackawanna Human Development Agency for a donation to the Head Start Youngsters Winter Coat Fund.

President’s Report

President Boland provided the following report:

Arbitration has been filed on the issue of the Paraprofessionals’ salary schedule. An arbitrator has not yet been selected and therefore no date has been set for this arbitration. Hopefully an arbitrator will be named by next week.

A grievance was filed about SRA company representatives observing classroom, ESL and Special Education teachers using the SRA Reading Program and passing on their reports to administration officials, some of whom have incorporated these reports into teachers’ observations. A discussion was held with Mr. King about this situation. Mr. King responded that the District never intended this and that these reports were not to be used against a teacher. Mr. King did, however, state that these company representatives would continue to observe teachers using the SRA program to provide feedback to the teachers about their use of the program. It is the position of the SFT that there will be no outside observation of teachers by program representatives.

Two grievances had been filed at the Board level. A meeting was held with the Labor Relations Committee of the Scranton School Board – Brian Jeffers, Todd Hartman and Frank Brazill, Mr. King, Mr. Vail and Atty. McGrath as well as the SFT delegation.

The Board did agree that paraprofessionals should not be doing clerical work. In the case of the other grievance regarding a teacher and a letter of reprimand, this issue will be taken to arbitration.

Mr. Vail has been appointed by the Scranton School Board to be the District’s compliance office for harassment issues.

As to the status of the new Contract, clean copies have been sent to Mr. Vail and to Atty. Gelman where they are being checked for correctness. The Paraprofessional Contract, except for the Salary Schedule, is also a clean copy.

Every member should have 3 Health Insurance cards – United Concordia Dental, Blue Cross Medical and CVS/Caremark Prescription card.

The recent posting involving the Yellowwood School raised a question about a loss of a job and must be investigated.

Liberty Mutual Insurance gave a presentation to the SFT on their various programs. Liberty Mutual offers educational programs to schools and online courses for teacher development with a cost saving. Liberty Mutual will donate money to the SFT Scholarship Fund for new membership in their various programs.

President Boland announced the a proposed slate for the upcoming SFT elections.

President - Rosemary Boland

Secretary/Treasurer – Kevin Kays

1^st Vice President – M. Loftus

2^nd Vice President – Pat Festa

3^rd Vice President – Vince Wojnar

Trustee – Kathy Waltz

Trustee – Amy Trapani

Trustee – Jerry Baldauff

Paraprofessionals – Judy Vitris

Itinerants – Kathy Opshinsky

Scranton High - Dave Powell

West High – Diane Mazurkivich

SSIS – Ann Geiger

NEIS – Dan Walter

WSIS – Vince Amico

Elementary – Marty Wazowicz

Elementary – Jennifer Telesco

Elementary – Jennifer Zaleski

Elementary – Mary Doran

Elementary – Marissa Byron

Elementary- Kathleen Beckwith

Slated delegates for the AFT-PA Conference to be held in Philadelphia from June 26 – 28, 2009 are:

Rosemary Boland, Kevin Kays, Matt Loftus, Kathy Waltz, Pat Festa, Jerry Baldauff, Amy Trapani, Mary Doran, Jennifer Telesco

New Business

A motion was made by P. Festa and seconded by K. Waltz – The dues that are now being paid by retirees P. McDonough and J. Gammaitoni, be put in the Scholarship fund for the year 2008-2009. Motion passed.

Other issues discussed:

Science teachers being used to correct 4Sight tests.

Question about the recent tax paid on the insurance benefit, an explanation is requested

Some teachers are still in need of fobs for buildings, especially for teachers/paraprofessionals who are assigned to more than one building.

A walk will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2009 for the Catholic School teachers in support of H.B. 26. This walk will be taking place outside the Cathedral.

A motion to adjourn was made by G. Mulrine and seconded by K. Beckwith. Motion passed.

Meeting adjourned at 5:10 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

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Executive Committee Meeting – February 4, 2009

The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Wednesday, February 4, 2009. The meeting was called to order by President Rosemary Boland at 4:02 P.M.

Members present: J. Gammaitoni, P. McDonough, R. Boland, K. Waltz, V. Wojnar, J. Baldauff, K. Opshinsky, K. Beckwith, M. Byron, A. Geiger, M. Wazowicz, D. Walter, M. Doran, J. Zaleski, K. Kays.

Secretary’s Report

The minutes were distributed to those present. A motion to accept the minutes was made by K. Waltz and seconded by K. Beckwith. Motion was carried.

Treasurer’s Report

The Treasurer’s report was distributed and an explanation was given by Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough. The report is on file at the SFT office. At this time President Boland gave a report on the AFT-PA state audit. She reported that the Scranton Federation of Teachers is in good standing in all areas of the state report.

A motion was made by P. McDonough and seconded by J. Baldauff that the ER&D basic fee per course be raised from $20 to $25 effective fall of 2009. Motion passed.

President’s Report

President Boland announced the following changes to the SFT slate of officers and Executive Committee members - Amy Trapani for the Paraprofessional electoral group and Ted Anderson for Trustee.

Old Business

President Boland made reference to the recent SFT Newsletter and its discussion of grievances and arbitrations. President Boland also noted the recent passing of Louise Auriemma, a paraprofessional at Willard and Lincoln Jackson Schools. She noted that staff at Lincoln Jackson had to take personal days to attend services for Mrs. Auriemma.

President Boland was contacted by Atty. Gelman regarding the arbitration for the paraprofessional salaries. An arbitrator has been selected, but no date has been

set. There is an arbitrator and date for the arbitration concerning the teacher from West Scranton High School.

February 18, 2009 is the next General Membership Meeting. Nominations for officers and the Executive Committee will be conducted. Nominations for delegates to the state AFT-PA convention will take place. President Boland announced that Christine Walker will be the Chair of the Election Committee. She has selected the following members to also serve on this Committee – Mary Jane McGurrin and Brian Bayer. G. Mulrine, J. Gammaitoni and P. McDonough will oversee the counting of ballots. The election will follow Robert’s Rules of Order. Chairperson Walker will present the proposed slate. The Transition Committee will start its duties by April 1, 2009.

New Business

K. Waltz announced that the Scholarship application will be sent to the printer and will then be available in the guidance offices of Scranton and West Scranton High Schools.

Two $1000 scholarships and one $500 scholarship is awarded at each school. Liberty Mutual, Inc., an insurance company currently doing presentations in the schools, will donate monies to the scholarship fund – a percentage based on policies sold in the

schools.

Other issues addressed:

Overcrowding of the 7^th Grade lunch at Northeast Intermediate School

The inability of doing grades at home using the e-school program

Booklets explaining the current insurance coverages

Status of the contract and its printing

On February 12, a meeting with Blue Cross, Mr. Casella and the SFT concerning the insurance plan

A motion to adjourn was made by M. Wazowicz and seconded by P. McDonough. Meeting adjourned at 5:13. P.M.

COPE meeting convened at 5:13 P.M.

An ACE meeting was held recently with U.S. Representative Paul Kanjorski at his Wilkes-Barre office. Members of the Committee are K. Waltz, P. Festa and M. Wazowicz. The meeting lasted about one hour. Topics discussed were the Stimulus Bill and the Employees Free Choice Act.

A request was made by P. Lawler for the SFT to sponsor a table for a brunch honoring Catherine Baker Knoll at a cost would be $200.00. A motion to sponsor the table was made by G. Mulrine and seconded by V. Wojnar. Motion passed.

A motion to adjourn was made by K. Waltz and seconded by J. Baldauff. Meeting adjourned at 5:20 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

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General Membership Meeting – February 18, 2009

A presentation by the Liberty Mutual Insurance Company was made to the membership prior to the start of the General Membership meeting. Representatives will be in the schools in the near future to discuss their program offerings.

The General Membership Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at Scranton High School. The meeting was called to order at 3:45 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland. President Boland led those assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance. President Boland also held a moment of silence for relatives of members who have recently passed away.

A motion was made by K. Secor and seconded by L. Kurpis to dispense with the reading of the minutes and the treasurer’s report. Motion passed.

President Boland called on Christine Walker, Chairperson of the Election Committee, to give her committee’s report.

The following report was presented:

Officer nominations:

President – Rosemary Boland

First Vice-President – Mathew Loftus

Second Vice-President – Patrick Festa

Third Vice-President – Vincent Wojnar

Secretary/Treasurer – Kevin Kays

Three Trustees – Ted Anderson, Gerald Baldauff, Kathryn Waltz

Executive Committee nominations:

Scranton High School Electoral Group – David Powell

West Scranton High School Electoral Group – Diane Mazurkivich

Northeast Intermediate School Electoral Group – Daniel Walter

South Scranton Intermediate School Electoral Group – Ann Geiger

West Scranton Intermediate School Electoral Group – Vincent Amico

Elementary School Electoral Group at large – Kathleen Beckwith, Marissa Byron, Mary Doran, Jennifer Telesco, Martin Wazowicz, Jennifer Zaleski,

Professional Support Electoral Group – Kathy Opshinsky

Paraprofessional Electoral Group – Amy Trapani

Chairperson Walker thanked the members of her committee, Brian Bayer and Mary Jane McGurrin, for their work on this committee.

President Rosemary Boland thanked the committee for their report.

At this time, President Boland opened up the floor for nominations. Each office was announced twice. No nominations were received for Officers, High School, Intermediate, Elementary, and Professional Support Electoral Groups.

A nomination from the floor for the Paraprofessional Electoral Group was made from the floor. Judy Vitris nominated Vita Forgione for the Paraprofessional Electoral Group. This nomination was accepted by Ms. Forgione.

A motion was made by B. Boland and seconded by K. Secor to elect by acclamation the nominees who had no opposition. Motion passed.

President Boland announced that a secret ballot election will be held at the March 11, 2009 General Membership Meeting for the Paraprofessional Electoral Group.

Chairperson Walker presented the following names for delegates to the AFT-PA Convention to be held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania from June 25 through June 28, 2009.

Delegates – Rosemary Boland, Patrick Festa, Kathy Waltz, Amy Trapani, Mary Doran, Kevin Kays, Matt Loftus, Jerry Baldauff, Jennifer Telesco. Alternate Delegate – Kathy Secor.

President Boland opened the floor for nominations. There were no nominations from the floor. A vote of acclamation was asked by President Boland. A motion was made and seconded. Motion passed.

President’s Report

President Boland gave an update on grievances and arbitrations.

*arbitration will be held in April concerning a district teacher

*an arbitrator has been selected for the Paraprofessional arbitration but no date

has been announced.

*arbitration has been filed concerning the compressed schedule used for 4Sight

testing which causes teachers to have more than the contractual number of teaching periods in a day.

New Business

Jerry Skotleski addressed the group and expressed his thanks on behalf of himself, fellow teacher Sean Curry and the 19 students of Scranton High who attended the recent Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C. He thanked the members for their support in the fund raisers and for the many donations that made this trip possible.

Another issue brought up for discussion was the current insurance rates for retirees.

A motion to adjourn was made by B. Buckley and seconded by B. Roditski. Motion passed.

Meeting adjourned at 4:25 P.M.

COPE Meeting was convened at 4:25 P.M. An announcement was made by A. Trapani about an upcoming fundraiser for Todd Hartman and Robert Lesh to be held on March 7, 2009 at the Waldorf Park.

The SFT has been asked by 2 candidates, seeking the office of Tax Collector, for support in the upcoming primary. The COPE Committee will meet with candidates for interviews for any offices open in the May Primary.

A motion to adjourn the COPE Meeting was made by R. Boland and seconded by G. Roskos. Meeting adjourned at 4:30 P.M.

At this time, a presentation on the particulars of the Blue Cross/Blue Shield health care plan was made by Mr. Augie Cassella.

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General Membership Meeting – March 11, 2009

A General Membership Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on March 11, 2009 at Scranton High School. The meeting was called to order at 3:55 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland.

President Boland led those assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance. A moment of silence was held in memory of Cheryl Frantz, a long time SFT officer and past president of the SFT Retiree Chapter.

President Boland also referenced the fact that an election was taking place in the Scranton High School Lobby for the Paraprofessional Representative to the SFT Executive Board. Voting closed at 4:00 P.M. At that time, President Boland asked the candidates for this position, Amy Trapani and Vita Forgione, to proceed to the Lobby to witness the counting of ballots by the Election Committee members, C. Walker, B. Bayer, and also G. Mulrine from the Executive Committee.

Voting Results – Amy Trapani - 26 votes Vita Forgone - 16 votes

42 votes cast

Therefore, Amy Trapani was declared elected as the paraprofessional member of the Executive Committee for f four year term beginning July 1, 2009.

Secretary’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough read the minutes of the November 12, 2008 General Membership Meeting. A motion to accept the minutes was made by M. Coyne and seconded by M. Foley. Motion passed. Mr. McDonough then read the COPE Meeting minutes from November 12, 2008. A motion to accept was made by K. Secor and seconded by L. Kurpis. Motion passed.

Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough read the minutes of the February 18, 2009 General Membership Meeting. A motion to accept the minutes was made by B. Boland and seconded by K. Secor. Motion passed. Mr. McDonough then read the COPE Meeting

Minutes from February 18, 2009. A motion to accept was made by M. Coyne and seconded by B. Roditski.

Treasurer’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough stated that all bills have been satisfied and the report is on file in the SFT office.

President’s Report

President Boland announced that there is a date for the arbitration concerning the paraprofessionls’ salary schedule. This date is May 29, 2009.

An arbitration concerning a teacher has been set for May 20, 2009.

A grievance concerning the 4 Sight scheduling was filed. President Boland received a letter from Atty. McGrath that this issue was settled. President Boland questioned this since she had not been notified of any meeting concerning this. According to the administration, it was agreed that the SFT position was correct and that teachers will be compensated.

The SFT has also filed a grievance at the Superintendent’s level concerning the after school programs and posting of the positions. Mr. McTiernan does not want to issue a new posting for these programs.

New Business

President Boland announced that she had been contacted by N. Krake from the Scranton Central Labor Union concerning the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The SFT has been invited to walk in the parade with the other local labor unions and the AFL-CIO bus.

A question was asked from the floor by K. Secor about principals not running the after school programs. President Boland addressed this issue.

President Boland made note that this was the time of year for DEBE reports and principals have been conducting observations throughout the District. President Boland advised teachers to be cognizant of what their principal expected in their lesson planning.

A motion to adjourn was made by B. Roditski and seconded by M. Coyne. Meeting adjourned at 4:30 P.M.

A COPE meeting was convened at 4:30 P.M. President Boland reminded everyone that this was primary election season. She stated that some candidates have supported the SFT and that the SFT will support them. She announced that March 18, 2009 will be the next meeting of the Scranton Central Labor Union. At this meeting, candidates for various offices will be speaking.

The SFT had been contacted by Gary DiBileo, mayoral candidate, and Nathan Barrett, School Board candidate for our support.

Janet Evans, candidate for City Council, an SFT member, will be having a rally on Friday, March 13, 2009.

Todd Hartman, candidate for Scranton School Board, will be holding a rally at the end of March.

In an upcoming COPE flier, the SFT will be announcing its endorsements based on interviews and other information.

A motion to adjourn was made by M. Coyne and seconded by S. Durkin.

The meeting adjourned at 4:33. P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

______________________________________________________________________________________________

Executive Committee Meeting – April 1, 2009

The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Wednesday, April 1, 2009. President Rosemary Boland called the meeting to order at 3:45 P.M.

Members present: R. Boland, P. McDonough, J. Gammaitoni, K. Waltz, V. Wojnar, P. Festa, J. Telesco, J. Baldauff, M. Wazowicz, J. Zaleski, A. Trapani, M. Doran, M. Byron, K. Beckwith, K. Opshinsky, K. Kays, A. Geiger

Excused – M. Loftus, G. Mulrine

Transition members present: T. Anderson, D. Powell, D. Mazurkivich, V. Amico

President Boland announced that the transition of new Board members started today and introduced the four new Board members named above to the Committee members present. President Boland also announced that Matt Loftus was back at work and hopefully will be at the next Board meeting.

Secretary’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough distributed the minutes from the last Executive Board meeting. Hearing no additions or corrections, a motion was made by V. Wojnar and seconded by P. Festa to accept the minutes as written. Motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report

Treasurer P. McDonough reviewed the Treasurer’s report with the entire Committee. This report is on file at the SFT office. Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough reviewed correspondence from the following – thank-you notes from G. Mulrine, and a letter of acknowledgement from J. Andrews thanking members of the ACE committee for their recent visit to the office of U.S. Representative Paul Kanjorski. A letter was also received from Bob Martin of the Fraternal Order of Police explaining the plight of our local police union. Mr. Martin offered to attend an SFT meeting to explain their problems. The SFT has received a request from the radio station 105 the River to sponsor a public service announcement concerning child abuse which would be aired for two weeks in the month of April during peak listening times – 3 times a week. The charge would be $370.00.

President’s Report

President Boland announced the following dates of importance:

May 20 – arbitration date for a teacher from West Scranton High School.

May 29 – arbitration on the salary schedule for the paraprofessionals’ contract.

These arbitrations will be held in Scranton at the Administration Building.

President Boland also brought the following topics into discussion – phone texting, messaging and calling from students to teachers, teacher dress and being in classrooms when scheduled.

M. Doran announced that the Special Education Cocktail Party will be held on May 1, 2009 and would cost $35.00 per ticket. A motion was made by M. Doran and seconded by J. Baldauff to support the Special Olympics by purchasing 4 tickets for this party. This was amended to the purchase of 5 tickets. The motion as amended passed.

President Boland discussed the 21^st Century grant. She noted that the current list of teachers e-mailed to the school site co-coordinators was not up to date. She advised that teachers keep records for their own files.

Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough noted that the ER&D fee was increased to $25 at the last Executive Board meeting. Mr. McDonough made a motion that the $25.00 fee be non-refundable for Act 48 hours. Fees for credits would still be processed for refunds. The motion was seconded by K. Beckwith. Motion passed.

A motion was made by K. Waltz and seconded by J. Telesco to pay $370 for the public service announcement on radio station 105 the River concerning the topic of child abuse.

Motion passed.

A motion to adjourn was made by K. Opshinsky and seconded by M. Byron. Motion passed. The meeting adjourned at 5:19 P.M.

A COPE meeting convened at 5:20 P.M.

President Boland discussed the upcoming Primary election as possibly being the actual election.

SFT recommendations for School Board, County, Superior and Supreme Court Judges as well as other local offices will be featured in an upcoming COPE Bulletin.

Motion to adjourn was made by P. Festa and seconded by K. Kays. Meeting adjourned at 5:45 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Executive Committee Meeting Minutes – May 4, 2009

An Executive Committee meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Monday, May 4, 2009. President Rosemary Boland called the meeting to order at 3:56 P.M.

Members present: R. Boland, P. McDonough, K Waltz, V. Wojnar, P. Festa, J. Telesco, M. Doran, K. Opshinsky, J. Gammaitoni, M. Byron, A. Trapani, A. Geiger, K. Kays, M. Wazowicz.

Excused: G. Mulrine, J. Baldauff, J. Zaleski

Secretary’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough distributed the minutes from the April meeting. Hearing no corrections or additions, a motion was made by V. Wojnar and seconded by P. Festa to accept the minutes. Motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough distributed the balance sheet for April to those present. He made note that sufficient monies had been budgeted for President Boland’s salary reimbursement to the District for the 2008-2009 school term. This report is on file at the SFT office.

President’s Report

The following arbitrations are scheduled:

May 20 – Classroom teacher arbitration

May 29 – Paraprofessional contract salary schedule

President Boland addressed the following issues:

After school programs- concerns about past practice and previous mediation on after school programs

Para salary for an ER&D course

A thank-you to P. Festa for the newsletter

Reported on a recent trip to Harrisburg to testify before the Senate Education Committee on the topic of teacher strikes

Scholarship Report

The following report was given by Kathy Waltz, Chairperson of the Scholarship Committee. The following were members of the Committee – Kathy Waltz, Amy Trapani, Matt Loftus-

Trustees, and Jerry Baldauff ,Ted Anderson – Trustees elect.

16 applications were received from West Scranton High School and 9 applications from Scranton High School.

The following students were selected as winners of the 2009 Robert K. Cavanaugh Scholarships-

West Scranton High - Becca Cangemi $1000.00

Amber Beth Cholish $1000.00

Brianna McCarthy $ 500.00

Scranton High School Timothy McCormick $1000.00

Tara McNulty $1000.00

Kristen Patchcoski $ 500.00

New Business

A motion was made by V. Wojnar and seconded by K. Waltz to nominate Jason O’Hearn as a building representative for West Scranton High School beginning with the 2009-2010 school year. Motion carried.

The correcting of 4Sight tests by Math and English teachers in the high schools was brought to the Executive Committee’s attention. P. McDonough stated that, in his experience, the open ended essay could have been counted as a test or assignment for the student by the teacher.

President Boland was going to ask for a Union meeting with the new superintendent and would put this on the agenda for discussion.

Other topics brought to the Committee’s attention were the end of year report procedures for Special Education teachers – taking all files to the Administration Building from each school. K Kays suggested that a receipt be provided for each teacher when these files are delivered to Mrs. Carr’s office.

President Boland informed the Committee that the copier in the SFT office had been purchased 10 years ago. The copier has been repaired several times and still exhibits the same problems. A motion was made by K. Waltz and seconded by V. Wojnar to authorize the office staff to conduct research and then purchase a copy machine. Motion passed.

A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by A. Geiger and seconded by M. Byron. Motion passed. Meeting adjourned at 4:40 P.M.

A COPE meeting was convened at 4:40 P.M. Discussion was held on the recent COPE letter distributed to the membership. Responses from individuals were shared with the Committee.

A motion was made to adjourn the meeting by A. Geiger and seconded by P. Festa.

Meeting adjourned at 5:10 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

General Membership Meeting – May 6, 2009

A General Membership Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Wednesday, May 6, 2009. The meeting was called to order at 3:50 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland who then led those assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance.

President Boland took the opportunity to congratulate retirees for their dedication and service to the Scranton School District. She also wished them a great and prosperous retirement. President Boland also expressed these same sentiments for the members of the Administration and Local 1201 who are also retiring this school term.

Secretary’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough read the minutes from the March General Membership Meeting. A motion to accept the minutes as read was made by J. Buckley and seconded by L. Kurpis. Motion passed.

Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough read the COPE minutes from the March meeting. A motion to accept the minutes as read was made by R. Boland and seconded by B. Roditski. Motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough stated that all financial obligations are being met.

All financial information is available at the SFT office.

Secretary/Treasurer P.McDonough mentioned that this was his last report as a member and officer of the Scranton Federation of Teachers. He noted that this opportunity was both a pleasure and hard work and that he was happy to be part of it. He made mention of the improvements that were made and this was good for everyone.

President’s Report

President Boland gave updates on pending arbitrations that have already been addressed in the SFT newsletter.

President Boland announced that the professional contract had been signed by the Scranton School Board and the Scranton Federation of Teachers’ Executive Committee members. The contract will be sent to the printer tomorrow. The contract will be in the hands of the members before the end of the school year.

New Business

President Boland announced that the ER&D Dinner will be held on Monday, May 18, 2009 at the Parish Center. Everyone is invited to come to this dinner. Reservations can be made with L. Kurpis or at the SFT office.

Other issues discussed:

*End of the year evaluations and the impact of an unsatisfactory rating for a teacher.

*Teacher responsibilities and duties during a school day.

*Paraprofessionals and teachers being injured during the school day by students.

*Use of suspensions without pay by building administrators.

*Act 48 credits – teachers must keep track of their hours.

*As per Contract Article – President Boland is requesting a meeting with the Superintendent and is composing an agenda to be sent to Mr. King.

*Staffing meeting with Mr. Vail for the 2009-2010 school year.

*Reminder to send official transcripts of credits earned for lane increases to the District between August 1 and August 15, 2009

*D. Genovese spoke on behalf of the Special Education teachers, addressing the increased paperwork expected of teachers but lack of extra time for this work.

President Rosemary Boland took a personal point of privilege to thank Pat McDonough, Gary Mulrine and Joe Gammaitoni for their service to the Scranton Federation of Teachers over the past four years.

A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by J. Buckley and seconded by M. Holmes. Meeting adjourned at 4:20 P.M.

COPE meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was convened at 4:20 P.M.

President Boland noted that the Primary election would take place on May 19, 2009.

She stated that the election of judges for the Supreme Court would be extremely important in this primary for future rulings concerning labor issues in Pennsylvania.

She urged members to refer to the recent COPE Newsletter for the SFT’s recommendations.

President Boland stated that the SFT does not seek or look for candidates but rather candidates have approached the SFT for its endorsement. President Boland noted that these endorsements are recommendations and that the membership, as always, has the right to vote for the candidates of their choice.

A motion to adjourn was made by B. Boland and seconded by A. Massenkiel. Meeting adjourned at 4:25 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Executive Committee Meeting – June 10, 2009

The Scranton Federation of Teachers’ Executive Committee meeting was called to order at 3:50 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland.

Members present- K. Waltz, R. Boland, J. Gammaitoni, M. Loftus, V. Wojnar, P. McDonough, D. Mazurkivich, T. Anderson, J. Telesco, A. Trapani, M. Doran, K. Opshinsky, M. Byron, P. Festa, J. Zaleski, K. Kays, A. Geiger, D. Walter, J. Baldauff, M. Wazowicz, K. Beckwith, G. Mulrine.

President Boland noted that new Executive Committee members were present for this meeting in accordance with the transition process as stated in the Scranton Federation of Teachers’ Constitution and By-Laws.

Secretary’s Report

Secretary /Treasurer P. McDonough distributed the minutes of the May meeting to those present. A motion was made by J. Baldauff and seconded by A. Geiger to accept the minutes, which were amended to correct a name completion, and the motion passed.

Mr. McDonough has received the following correspondences:

Thank-you notes from Judge Panella, Margie Bisignani Moyle, Atty. Robert Mariani and family (scholarship donation).

Treasurer’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer P. McDonough presented his monthly report and this is on file in the SFT office. He also made note of the financial condition of the SFT upon entering his office 4 years ago and the present financial status of the SFT.

It was noted that Kevin Kays has been in the SFT office learning the Treasurer’s reporting systems and procedures. This also is in accordance with the transition process.

President’s Report

President Boland entered into Executive Session at 4:01 P.M. Issues discussed were:

*outcomes of two arbitration cases that were decided in May.

*status of newly filed grievances

* the after school elementary program and postings for positions

* need for more paraprofessionals in the District

President Boland introduced a letter of resignation from Matt Loftus. A motion was made by P. Festa and seconded by K. Waltz to graciously accept with regret this resignation. Motion passed. *

New Business

Issues discussed:

*the issue of rewriting of IEPs by the Special Education teachers

*paraprofessional certification

* ER&D offerings

The meeting was put into recess at 5:00 P.M.

President Boland adjourned the meeting at 5:30P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

*Matt Loftus rescinded his letter of resignation in first week of July. This was accepted by a unanimous vote of the Executive Board.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Executive Committee Minutes – August 20, 2009

The Executive Committee Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Thursday, August 20, 2009. The meeting was called to order at 9:30 A.M. by President Rosemary Boland.

Members present: R. Boland, M. Loftus, K. Waltz, P. Festa, J. Telesco, A. Trapani,

K. Opshinsky, D. Walter, K. Beckwith, V. Wojnar, J. Baldauff, M. Doran, V. Amico,

J. Zaleski, M. Wazowicz, D. Mazurkivich, A. Geiger, T. Anderson

Members excused: K. Kays, M. Byron, D. Powell

Secretary’s Report

In the absence of Secretary/Treasurer Kevin Kays, President Boland distributed the minutes from the last Executive Committee meeting to those present. Hearing no additions or corrections, a motion was made by K. Beckwith and seconded by J. Telesco to accept the minutes as presented. Motion passed.

Thank-you notes for scholarships were received from the following students – Tara McNulty and Timothy McCormick

Treasurer’s Report

President Boland, in the absence of Treasurer/Secretary Kevin Kays, announced that a budget report will be given at the September Executive Board meeting. She also announced that Mr. John Feldman of AFT, Washington, recently completed an audit of the Scranton Federation of Teachers. He will be sending a written report as to his findings. Mr. Feldman did determine that the audit is a “clean” audit. He also will be available to discuss his findings with the membership at a future date.

President’s Report

Old Business

President Boland made note that the office was open everyday during the summer months.

President Boland thanked the members for their participation in the PA Breast Cancer Coalition – Strike Out Cancer event held on Friday, August 14, 2009 at the PNC Field.

The following members participated – J. Telesco, A. Trapani, M. Doran, M. Loftus,

J. Gammaitoni, B. Gammaitoni, K. Yaros and M. Emiliani.

Grievance/Arbitration Updates

The grievance that had been filed on the after school programs has been resolved. In the future, programs will begin and end on the same day district wide. Any school which completed the after school program before the posted ending date of May 29, 2009, will be allowed to start the program early this school year to compensate for the missed days from the last school year.

As of the recent August School Board Meeting, the District has not yet appointed a Head Nurse.

At this time, President Boland announced that there are no current grievances, mediations or arbitrations with the Scranton School district.

President Boland asked all members to immediately contact the SFT office about oversized class sizes that may occur in their schools in the up coming school year.

New Business

Inquires were made on the following topics:

*questions on hirings and open positions

*the recent ESL posting and its job description, this job will be reposted in the new school term.

* speaker for the Scranton School District convocations to be held on Friday, August 28, 2009 will be Mr. Ron Clark

Motion to adjourn the meeting was made by V. Wojnar and seconded by D. Walter.

Meeting adjourned at 10:10 A.M.

Respectfully submitted,

________________________________________________________________________________________________

Executive Committee Meeting- September 9, 2009

The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Wednesday, September 9, 2009. The meeting was called to order at 3:45 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland.

Members present: R. Boland, K. Waltz, M. Loftus, D. Powell, K, Kays, V. Wojnar,

A.Trapani, M. Doran, D. Mazurkivitch, J. Telesco, J. Baldauff, K Opshinsky, M. Byron, V.Amico, P. Festa, A. Geiger, J. Zaleski

Members excused: D. Walter, K. Beckwith, T. Anderson, M. Wazowicz

Secretary’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays asked the members to review the minutes of the August Executive Committee Meeting. A motion was made by J. Baldauff and seconded by V. Wojnar to accept the minutes as read. Hearing no corrections or amendments, the motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays circulated a copy of the recent audit performed by Mr. John Feldman of the AFT Financial Services Division. Mr. Feldman, in his written report, stated that the SFT should be commended for its financial records and bookkeeping practices.

Mr. Kays discussed the monthly SFT financial report with the Executive Committee and this report is on file at the SFT office.

Mr. Kays presented a proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year which upon completion will be presented to the SFT Trustees for their recommendation to the

Executive Committee.

A request has been received from the St. Francis Kitchen for a donation. President Boland made reference to the many food drives being held both at the IBEW Building and at Scranton High and throughout the area and the necessity for these since most of the food pantries have very few supplies. A motion was made by K. Waltz and seconded by K. Opshinsky to donate $50.00 from the General Fund for a food drive. An amendment was made by J. Baldauff and seconded by K. Kays to raise the amount of the donation to $100.00. The amendment was approved and the motion was passed.

P. Festa suggested that the SFT members be asked to bring food donations to the upcoming SFT Fall Get Together. D. Mazurkivitch suggested that cash donations might be more feasible.

Old Business

President Boland noted that the District has not yet appointed a Chief Nurse. She has written 2 letters to the Administration and has attended Scranton School Board Meetings and expressed her views on this issue (contractual position). President Boland read minutes from the September 12, 2000 School Board Meeting where Mr. McGrath noted that this position was a contractual agreement and the Board could not eliminate the position. President Boland stated that Mr. McGrath was to discuss this matter with Superintendent King.

President Boland asked the members to be vigilant about class sizes in their buildings. There are class size issues already at Kennedy and Whittier Schools.

New Business

M. Byron reported that the SFT Fall Get Together would be held on Friday, November 6, 2009 at St. George’s Hall on Keyser Ave. The menu will be basically the same as last year. Musical entertainment will be provided by EJ the DJ. Further information will be sent to the schools in the near future. Many members of the Executive Committee have volunteered to serve on the SFT Fall Get Together Committee. Some suggestions - new SFT T-shirts, 50/50 for the benefit of the SFT Scholarship Fund and chances on various baskets.

Other issues discussed-the increased duties and paperwork demands being made of various SFT teachers.

A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by A. Geiger and seconded by A. Trapani. Meeting adjourned at 5:15 P.M.

A COPE meeting convened at 5:15 P.M.

President Boland read a thank-you letter from Mary Rinaldi for a recent donation.

A letter was received from Jay Andrews thanking various members of the SFT’s ACE Committees for their recent participation with meetings with Congressmen C. Carney and P. Kanjourski. Members who participated were – V. Wojnar, G. Mulrine, J. Baldauff, K. Kays, M. Loftus, R. Boland, K. Waltz.

President Boland announced that the Scranton Central Labor Union’s annual Dinner will be held on Wednesday, October 7, 2009 at the Scranton Cultural Center. The SFT has sponsored a table in the past and has also placed an ad in the program. A motion was made by P. Festa and seconded by K. Waltz to place an ad in the program booklet for $150.00. Motion passed. A motion was made by P. Festa and seconded by J. Baldauff to pay for a table for this dinner. President Boland noted that Judge Jack Panella would be the keynote speaker at this dinner. He is a candidate for the PA Supreme Court and is a candidate supportive of labor issues. President Boland asked for a motion to make a donation to Judge Panella at this dinner. A motion was made by M. Loftus and seconded by J. Telesco to donate $500.00. P. Festa made note that the COPE fund was very healthy and a friendly amendment was made by M. Doran and seconded by P. Festa to change the amount of the donation to $1000.00. M. Loftus withdrew his original amendment and the friendly amendment passed.

A motion was made by V. Wojnar and seconded by D. Mazurkivitch to adjourn. Motion passed. The COPE meeting adjourned at 5:34 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

___________________________________________________________________________________

Executive Committee Meeting – October 8, 2009

The Executive Committee Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Thursday, October 8, 2009. The meeting was called to order at 3:40 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland.

Members present: R. Boland, M. Loftus, K. Waltz, D. Powell, M. Byron, T. Anderson, K. Kays, P. Festa, V. Amico, J. Baldauff, J. Zaleski, M. Doran, K. Opshinsky, J. Telesco, A. Geiger, K. Beckwith

Members excused: D. Mazurkivitch, V. Wojnar, A. Trapani

Secretary’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays distributed the minutes of the September Executive Committee Meeting to the Executive Board. A motion was made by K. Opshinsky and seconded by P. Festa to accept the minutes. Hearing no corrections or amendments, the motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays distributed the monthly financial report to the Executive Committee members. Discussion ensued. This report in on file at the SFT office. Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays announced the formation of a budget committee following the guidelines in the SFT Constitution.

President’s Report

Old Business

President Boland reminded the Board that the first General Membership Meeting of the 2009-2010 year would be on Wednesday October 14, 2009 at 3:45P.M. at Scranton High School. Agendas will be posted in the schools .

President Boland also mentioned that some Paraprofessionals had not yet picked up their contracts at the Union office. These contracts are still available for pick-up.

Grievance Report

*Grievance 17 of 2009 – Chief Nurse position. President Boland stated that this is a union job position that is currently being done by Ms. Carr. President Boland and other SFT officers met with the Labor Relations Committee of the Scranton School Board. Discussion of the history of this position and the present status of this position as a union job took place. President Boland announced that the Scranton School Board has granted the grievance. A posting for this position will be coming in the near future.

* Grievance 18 of 2009- class size issues at Kennedy and Morris schools. The addition of special education students ( SED, autistic students) into regular education classes for various subjects is exceeding the contractual class size limits. Additional discussion took place on this form of inclusion taking place in the elementary schools.

A motion was made by P. Festa and seconded by K. Beckwith that a Committee be formed of interested SFT Executive Committee members representing all educational levels, to serve as a task force to research inclusion practices in the Scranton School District.

New Business

The Fall Outing of the Scranton Federation of Teachers will be held on Friday, November 6, 2009. Fliers have been distributed to the membership with all details for the evening. It was stressed that there should be no walk-ins that evening. Donations were taken from the Executive Board for baskets to be raffled in support of the SFT Scholarship Fund.

President Boland noted that future retirees should attend a PSERS retirement meeting and seek professional financial advice. The SFT is not involved in the finance business

A motion was made by A. Geiger and seconded by D. Walter to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 5:00 P.M.

A COPE meeting convened at 5:00 P.M. President Boland named several candidates for state and local judgeships. President Boland asked for permission from the Executive Committee to support these people financially. President Boland also reported that Janet Evans was seeking the support of the SFT for herself and her team in the upcoming November election. There was concurrence on all candidates’ names and the request of Janet Evans.

A motion was made by P. Festa and seconded by J. Zaleski to adjourn. The COPE meeting adjourned at 5:05 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

___________________________________________________________________________

General Membership Meeting – October 14, 2009

The General Membership Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Wednesday, October 14, 2009 at Scranton High School. The meeting was called to order at 3:50 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland. President Boland led those assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance and asked for a moment of silence in honor of our troops who are presently serving in Afghanistan and Iraq.

President Boland then introduced Mr. Bill Cockerill, the AFL Community Service Liaison for the United Ways of Lackawanna and Wayne Counties. Mr. Cockerill stated that the Scranton School District provided 50% of the funding in the educational division in the past campaign. He also mentioned several of the programs helped by United Way donations, such as Success by 6 and Head Start.

Mr. Andy Van Wie, a representative of the Liberty Mutual Insurance Company, addressed the membership about several programs sponsored by his company that would aid teachers in insurance discounts and provide financial assistance in the pursuance of educational degrees. Mr. Van Wie and several of his colleagues would be in the lobby of Scranton High School to answer questions of the membership.

Secretary’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer Kevin Kays read the minutes from the May 2009 General Membership Meeting. A motion was made by J. Buckley and seconded by P. Carr to accept the minutes as read. Motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer Kevin Kays read a letter from Mr. John Feldman, Director of Financial Services, referencing his recent audit of the Scranton Federation of Teachers. Mr. Feldman noted the excellent condition of the records.

Mr. Kays stated that all accounts were reconciled, and all bills were paid except for President Boland’s 2008-2009 salary.

President’s Report

President Boland noted that the SFT Paraprofessionals had been notified that their contracts were printed and ready for pick-up by a global connect call. Contracts are still awaiting pick-up at the SFT office.

President Boland thanked the Building Representatives for their delivery of newsletters and bulletins to their respective schools. These representatives provide the valuable service of keeping the SFT office aware of teacher concerns in their individual buildings.

Grievance Update

*Chief Nurse Grievance was filed at the board level. The Labor Relations Board of the Scranton School Board met with the Federation on September 28, 2009. The Federation gave an historical review of the position of Chief Nurse, which has been a Federation bargaining unit position as of the 1990-1993 Contract. The Federation was notified by President Gilbride that the Board granted the Federation’s grievance. The position of Chief Nurse will be posted. The administration complicated the process of posting by asking principals – non medical personnel – and the nurses to put together a posting. The Federation was never contacted to submit names for any such purpose. We await the posting.

*After School Program-grievance was filed at the superintendent’s level. Mr. King granted the grievance. Any member who was denied work last year due to the erratic start and stop dates of the programs and the number of days per week worked at the elementary and middle school levels will be compensated for the denial of work. The Federation met with Mr. McTiernan and agreed to an average of hours worked for each participating teacher. The Federation and Mr. King agreed that all future programs will have the same start and stop dates and a uniform program will run.

*Class Size – The grievance involves the kindergarten classes at Kennedy and the fourth grade classes at Morris. The situation at each school arose as the district decided to include IEP students from the autistic class and SED class. These additional students will be in the class for “some periods of time.” The Federation’s position is based on a finite number of students, while the District’s position is based on an infinite number of students. The grievance, unless resolved, will be moved to the Board level on Friday of this week.

*DIBELS – Teachers in grades K, 1 and 2 were told by principals to input data on the students taking the DIBNELS test. The Federation notified the District that data entry was the responsibility of the building principal. The District agreed and notified the principals that they were to input all data. The teacher’s responsibility is to interpret the data produced after the testing is completed.

*Inclusion- The teachers at WSHS were notified that students will be included in their regular education classes as soon as the parents of the students sign off on the IEP. Apparently for the past seven years, the WSHS special education students were not fully included into the regular education classes. To our members at WSHS who have requested the SFT to file a grievance because of this inclusion, the Federation is not able to do as requested. Unfortunately, the law of the land is NCLB and IDEA requirements.

* Injury on the job- Teachers and paraprofessionals injured on the job are reminded to fill out an incident report and ask to be taken to the ER. A list of doctors who work with Worker’s Compensation cases should be listed at your school. The Federation is to be informed if any member is injured on the job.

*Retirement Procedures – Members are reminded to send for a retirement estimate from PSERS. Also anyone contemplating retirement must attend a seminar usually held at Valley View School District, by PSERS. You are encouraged to consult with a financial advisor. Finally, you must send a letter informing the district of your intentions to retire. This letter must be submitted by April 1^st.

*Act 48 Hours – President Boland stated that some teachers are still in need of Act 48 hours. NPCTM Fall Meeting will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2009 at St. Mary’s Center beginning at 6:00 P.M. The program is titled “Mathematics Motivators” and Act 48 hours will be given for attendance.

* SFT Fall Outing – M. Byron discussed the details of the Fall Outing planned for Friday evening, Nov. 6, 2009 at St. George’s Hall. Additional forms for the outing are available on the stage. The times will be from 6 to 10 o’clock, same menu as last year, musical entertainment, 50/50 raffle and baskets to be raffled. Reservations are due by October 26, 2009. Please no walk-ins.

New Business

Issues discussed -

Itinerant teachers assigned to more than one school, are having difficulty with entry into buildings because of lack of fobs.

S. Durkin spoke to the DATA packet on each Special Education student being requested by Mrs. Carr.

B. Jordan noted that possibly in an upcoming newsletter, the difference between volunteering and being professional be clarified for the membership.

President Boland announced that she is not retiring and that any rumors to that effect are not correct.

Next General membership meeting will be February 10, 2010.

A motion was made by B. Jordan and seconded by L. Ross for an adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 5:10 P.M.

A COPE Meeting convened at 5:10 P.M. President Boland announced that members will receive a COPE flyer listing the SFT endorsed candidates for the November 3^rd election. Please share this union important message with friends and family members. President Boland reminded the membership of the importance of voting and that this is an important election for all unions especially in the selection of state judges.

A motion to adjourn was made by P. Carr and seconded by M. Biel. COPE meeting adjourned at 5:11 P.M.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Executive Committee Meeting – November 4, 2009

The Scranton Federation of Teachers’ Executive Committee met on Wednesday, November 4, 2009. President Rosemary Boland called the meeting to order at 4:20 P.M.

Members present: R. Boland, V. Wojnar, M. Loftus, D. Mazurkivich, D. Powell, A. Geiger, M. Wazowicz, A. Trapani, K. Waltz, K. Kays, M. Byron, J. Baldauff, J. Zaleski, T. Anderson, M. Doran, D. Walter

Excused: J. Telesco, P. Festa, V. Amico, K. Beckwith, K. Opshinsky

Secretary’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer asked those present to review the minutes of the October Executive Committee meeting. A motion was made by A. Geiger and seconded by D. Powell to accept the minutes as presented. Motion to accept passed.

Treasurer’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays reviewed the monthly financial statement with the members of the Committee. Mr. Kays also presented the proposed budget for the 2009-2010 year.

He made mention of the Budget Committee‘s recent meeting and thanked the members for their suggestions.

A motion was made by K. Waltz and seconded by J. Baldauff to accept the proposed budget for the 2009-2010 year. Motion passed. President R. Boland commended K .Kays for his work on this budget.

President’s Report

Old Business

The following issues were discussed:

*Grievance #20 has been filed concerning the 7 teachers from Morris school who have not yet been compensated for work denied during last year’s EAP tutoring session.

* Teacher and the updating of Web Pages.

*Grievance concerning the Special Education Data Book has been denied by the Superintendent. This will be moved up to another level.

New Business

An inquiry was made about the Chief Nurse Position by V. Wojnar. President Boland is in discussion with our lawyer about the posting situation.

President Boland announced that the teachers of the Career Technology Center have obtained and ratified a new contract. Congratulations were offered to the negotiating team.

M. Byron and K. Waltz gave a short report on the SFT Fall Outing to be held this Friday evening from 6-10P.M. at St. George’s Hall on Keyser Ave. A basket will be raffled, door prizes will be awarded during the evening festivities and a 50/50 will take place for the benefit of the Scholarship fund.

Because of the start of the after school tutoring program, it was suggested by President Boland that the day of the SFT Executive Meeting be flexible. The next SFT Executive Meeting will be Monday, December 7, 2009.

A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by J. Baldauff and seconded by A. Trapani. Meeting adjourned at 5:30 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Executive Committee Meeting – December 7, 2009

President Rosemary Boland called the December 7, 2009 meeting of the Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers to order at 3:51 P.M.

Members present: R. Boland, K. Kays, M. Loftus, K. Waltz, J. Baldauff, A. Trapani,

D. Mazurkivich, K. Beckwith, M. Wazowicz, T. Anderson, M. Doran, A. Geiger,

K. Opshinsky, P. Festa, J. Telesco, J. Zaleski

Excused: V. Amico, D. Walter, M. Byron, D. Powell, V.Wojnar

President Boland asked for a change in the order of the agenda to accommodate

a guest speaker.

Judy Gatelli addressed the Committee concerning the posting of the Head Nurse position. Some of the issues mentioned were the history of the Head Nurse position, previous posting language, previous qualifications and seniority in the District. President Boland

reviewed all the steps she had taken that resulted in this recent posting. President Boland stated that she hoped this position would be filled before the end of December.

The regular agenda was then commenced.

Secretary’s Report

President Boland and Secretary/Treasurer Kevin Kays asked the members present to review the minutes of the November Executive Committee Meeting. Hearing no corrections or amendments, a motion was made by K. Beckwith and seconded by K. Opshinsky to accept the minutes as read. Motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report

Treasurer K. Kays reviewed the report with the Committee and it is on file at the SFT office.

President’s Report

President Boland gave a status report on recent grievances. These grievances and their current status can be found in the December newsletter. One recent grievance concerned special education teachers and the collection of reports for a Data Book. M. Loftus noted that at one time there was a District Policy Committee that addressed such issues. He questioned where this Committee is at the present time.

President Boland met with District officials today on Grievance 22 that addressed the issue of the monitoring of teachers through the reporting procedures of various reading programs that must be entered on computers. This is in violation of the CBA. She also stated that teachers are being evaluated on student usage of these programs.

New Business

A motion was made by M. Wazowicz and seconded by M. Loftus to request $120.00

from the SFT for aid to a member in need. Motion passed

President Boland also noted that one of our SFT members is in need of surgery and will possible be in need of donated sick days for the recovery. She will keep us advised of the situation.

Matt Loftus made the motion that Pat McDonough be appointed to the Executive Committee as the Retiree Representative. The motion was seconded by Kevin Kays. Motion passed by unanimous vote.

A motion to adjourn was made by K. Beckwith and seconded by P. Festa. Meeting adjourned at 5:46 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Executive Committee Meeting – January 12, 2010

The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Tuesday, January 12, 2010. The meeting was called to order at 3:52 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland.

Members present: R. Boland, K. Waltz, J. Baldauff, V. Wojnar, K. Kays, M. Loftus,

D. Walter, T. Anderson, D. Powell, A. Geiger, M. Byron, K. Beckwith, A. Trapani,

M. Wazowicz, K. Opshinsky, V. Amico, P. Festa,, J. Telesco, P. McDonough, J. Zalecki,

M. Doran

Members excused: D. Mazurkivitch

Secretary’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays distributed the minutes of the December meeting to those assembled. After one correction was made, a motion was made by A. Geiger and seconded by P. Festa to accept the minutes. Motion passed.

Secretary/Treasurer Kays read a letter from P. McDonough expressing his thanks and appreciation to the Executive Committee during his time in the office of Secretary and Treasurer.

Treasurer’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer K Kays gave an explanation of his monthly report to the Executive Committee. This report is on file at the SFT office.

President’s Report

President Boland reported that they were no grievances and arbitrations pending at this time.

Other topics covered in discussion were:

*administration changes in the school district,

*the current insurance rates for retirees.

*the attendance at a webnar concerning the Race to The Top by R. Boland, V. Wojnar, P. Festa, K. Waltz and R. Boland held at the Administration Building with B. King, L. Paris, A. Salerno, D. Williams and L. Carr .

A motion was made by P. Festa and V. Wojnar to give permission to President Rosemary Boland to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the Scranton Federation of Teachers and the Scranton School District regarding the Pennsylvania Race to the Top Memorandum of Understanding for Participating Districts. Motion passed unanimously.

* Liberty Mutual Insurance will be sponsoring an informative evening providing information on their offerings to the SFT. Refreshments will be provided. The date for this get together will be Thursday, February 11, 2010 and will be held at the Prudential Retiree Building on Davis Street. Invitations will be distributed to the membership.

New Business

President Boland noted that their were several concerns about the format of the district checks – e.g. Social Security numbers on checks, lack of the bank name, no account of sick and personal days. President Boland was informed that these items should be corrected in the near future.

M. Loftus had received correspondence concerning the position of Chief Nurse. This position has yet to be filled. A motion was made by K. Beckwith and seconded by

J. Baldauff to authorize President Boland to write a letter to the Board to request that the

Chief Nurse position be filled. Motion passed unanimously.

V. Wojnar inquired about the scheduling at the various secondary schools during the recent 4Sight testing as to changes in the teaching schedules. Executive Committee members involved in these schedules responded to the inquiries.

M. Byron stated that the Life Skills Class at Armstrong received its 13^th student and another para had been assigned to the class. It was noted that this will be the same situation in the Life Skills class at Kennedy. The question is will a para be provided at Kennedy?

A motion was made by V. Amico and seconded by K. Kays to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 5:30P.M.

A COPE meeting was convened at 5:30P.M.

President Boland reported on the following:

*The attendance of SFT members R. Boland, K. Waltz and M. Wazowicz at the January 11, 2010 Breakfast with Specter.

*Recent meetings between President Boland and U.S. Representative C. Carney and with representatives of U.S. Senator Arlen Specter

* A motion was made by K. Waltz and seconded by K. Beckwith to authorize support for Senator Specter in the upcoming election. The motion passed.

* An e-mail was received from J. Andrews for members to contact legislators to express their disfavor with the concept of an excise tax on health benefits.

A motion was made by M. Loftus and seconded by P. Festa to adjourn. Motion passed. The meeting adjourned at 5:35 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Executive Committee Meeting – February 3, 2010

The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Wednesday, February 3, 2010. The meeting was called to order at 3:46 by President Rosemary Boland.

Members present: R. Boland, K. Waltz, M. Loftus, V. Wojnar, G. Baldauff, M. Doran,

J. Zaleski, A. Trapani, M. Byron, D. Powell, V. Amico, K. Kays, J. Telesco,

D. Mazurkivitch, A. Geiger, M. Wazowicz

Members excused: P. Festa, D. Walter, K. Beckwith, P. McDonough, T. Anderson

Secretary’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays distributed the minutes of the January Meeting to those present. Hearing no corrections or additions, a motion was made by M. Byron and seconded by J. Zaleski to accept the minutes as presented. Motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays discussed the monthly financial report with the Executive Committee. This report is on file in the SFT Office.

President’s Report

President Rosemary Boland reported that there are no grievances or arbitrations at this time.

President Boland reported on her appearance at the February meeting of the Scranton School Board at which time she addressed the issue of the position of head nurse in the District. She reviewed the history of this position with the Board and urged that this position be filled as soon as possible.

Other issues discussed:

· A report on the recent 4 day Center for School Improvement Leadership Institute held in New York attended by R. Boland, P. Festa, M. Loftus, N. Cangemi, L. Kurpis and J. Telesco. Also in attendance, Mr. Dan Williams representing the Scranton School District

· After school math tutoring programs for the following schools – Morris, Marshall and Whittier Schools

· The deployment of Scranton High School teacher Sue Decker to Iraq

At this time President Boland presented a slate of delegates for the AFT Conference which will be held in Seattle, Washington, July 7 through 11, 2010.

The following names were given – R. Boland, M. Loftus, P. Festa, V. Wojnar, K. Waltz, G. Baldauff, A. Trapani, M. Doran, and J. Zaleski.

A motion was made by K. Waltz and seconded by J. Telesco to elect 9 delegates to the Conference with the understanding that the actual number of delegates attending the Conference will be determined by a study of the financial status of the SFT. Motion passed.

New Business

Members of the Committee brought the following issues to the attention of the Executive Board.

· The leaking roof at Armstrong School and its impact on teachers and students. School District officials and School Directors have visited the school and are aware of the situation affecting the health of both students and teachers.

· Future training sessions for the use of Promethean Boards by District teachers

· Future dates for the issuances of Progress reports as to the number of days in the quarter when they are sent to parents is not necessarily the half way point of the marking period.

A motion was made to adjourn by D. Powell and seconded by J. Telesco. Meeting adjourned at 5:28 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

General Membership Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

A General Membership Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held at Scranton High School on Tuesday, February 9, 2010.

The meeting was called to order at 3:50 P. M. by President Rosemary Boland. President Boland led those assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance which was followed by a moment of silence in honor of our troops serving in Afghanistan and Iraq.

President Boland noted the passing of two former teachers in the Scranton School District – Robert Bisciaio and Ann Marie Arvonio.

She also noted that two members of the Federation are in need of sick days due to serious medical situations. She asked that members consider a donation of a day to these members.

Secretary’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays read the minutes of the October General Membership Meeting. A motion was made by J. Buckley and seconded by P. Tunney to accept the minutes as read. Motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report

Secretary/ Treasurer K. Kays reported that all accounts are reconciled. These reports are on file at the SFT office. Mr. Kays also stated that the SFT is right on target with the budget at the half way mark of the financial year.

President’s Report

President Boland reported that there are no new grievances or arbitrations at this time. She is still working on some situations and has made headway and feels that good communication channels have been established within the District.

Issues discussed:

· The attendance of 6 SFT members at the Center for School Improvement Leadership Institute’s Conference on Professional Development to Raise Student Achievement for School and District Teams held January 28-31, 2010 in New York City.

· Problems that arose during the recent District In-Service especially with the In-Service provided the Paras, as well as problems that arose throughout the District. This issue will be addressed in the upcoming newsletter.

· RTTT – an accord has been signed by both Scranton School District and the Scranton Federation of Teachers as to participation in Pennsylvania’s application for the RTTT. Attorneys from the AFT-DC, AFT-PA and those of the SFT were contacted for input into this program. A separate memorandum of agreement between the SFT and the Scranton School District concerning the RTTT has been signed.

· President Boland has been contacted by Judge Harhut to participate with other community leaders to address children and court issues.

New Business

President Boland presented the following slate of nominees to the AFT Conference to be held July 7 through 11, 2010 in Seattle, Washington.

R. Boland P. Festa M. Loftus V. Wojnar

K. Waltz G. Baldauff M. Doran A. Trapani

J. Zaleski

At this time, nominations were opened to the floor. There were none.

A motion to close nominations was made by J. Buckley and seconded by J. Douaihy.

Motion passed.

A motion was made by J. Buckley and seconded by M. Foley to unanimously elect those nominated as delegates to the Conference. Motion passed.

Further new business:

· P. Tunney presented several questions on RTTT to President Boland for clarification. President Boland responded to these questions.

· M. Baransky asked about allocations of money in RTTT toward teachers particularly in the area of merit pay. President Boland stated that the Scranton School District agreement did not mention merit pay.

· K. Beckwith, P. Festa, G. Baldauff addressed other aspects of the RTTT and the positive outcomes of participation that could be afforded to the Scranton School District and the members of the SFT.

· M. Piepoli spoke to the concept of departmentalization in the elementary schools as a way of changing a school’s environment for the betterment of students and the best use of individual teacher’s strengths and interests.

· K. Bohan expressed interest inbeing part of a committee to address school dress at the High School level, a concept mentioned at the last Scranton School Board Meeting.

· Other members who expressed concerns, M. Kapacs, M. Jennings. B. Jordan, K. Kays, K. Bharkhda and G. Baldauff

A motion to adjourn was made by J. Pilosi and seconded by N. Cangemi. Motion passed.

Meeting adjourned at 5:35 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

_______________________________________________________________________________

Executive Committee Meeting – Thursday, March 4, 2010

The Executive Committee Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Thursday, March 4, 2010. The meeting was called to order at 3:45 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland.

Members present: R. Boland, M. Loftus, K. Waltz, D. Walter, V. Wojnar, V. Amico,

G. Baldauff, J. Telesco, D. Mazurkivitch, K. Kays, P. Festa, M. Wazowicz, M. Byron,

J. Zaleski, K. Opshinsky, M. Doran, A. Geiger, D. Powell, T. Anderson, K. Beckwith

Members excused: P. McDonough

Secretary’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays asked the members present to read the minutes from the February meeting that had been distributed. Hearing no amendments or changes to the minutes, a motion was made by V. Wojnar and seconded by P. Festa to accept the minutes as read.

Treasurer’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays distributed the monthly financial report to those present. Committee members had ample time to review this financial record and it is on file at the SFT office, Mr. Kays reported that an auditor for the State Workers’ Insurance Fund had completed his annual audit of the SFT.

President’s Report

President Boland reported that there are no grievances or arbitrations at this time.

President Boland reported on the following issues:

*there has been no communication with Mr. King, as of this date, on a creation of a committee for a uniform policy in the high schools

*there is no further information concerning RTTT

* the Chief Nurse position is still a job in our contract and we will continue to work for this position

* Liberty Mutual Insurance will be hosting a dinner on March 25, 2010 at the Tripp house for those members who are retiring this year or plan to do so next year.

Further information will be coming to the schools.

· the following dates will be used as make-up school days due to weather related closures – April 5 and 6 and May 28, 2010

· the next oral exams for new hirings will be summer of 2011

New Business

The following issues were brought to the attention of the Committee by various members:

*the lack of accumulation of Act 48 hours by pre-school teachers who are attending training for IGS – there is a question about the awarding of hours for sessions less than 3 ½ hours. - J. Zaleski

*lack of correct Act 48 hours numbers for some special education teachers for sessions held last school year – M. Doran

* question about the numbers of students for the SAVES programs at Scranton High and West Scranton High. There seems to be an overload of students at West High and an inadequate number of working computers for these students – V. Wojnar

* acknowledgement of a thank-you from some I-Tech teachers for their favorable In-Service review in the last newsletter – R. Boland

* question about the date for the spring sport interviews since practices are scheduled to begin next week

A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by P. Festa and seconded by M. Byron.

Meeting adjourned at 4:50 P.M.

COPE meeting convened at 4:50 P.M.

President Boland announced that the SFT was the first Union to endorse Senator Arlen Specter. President Boland also announced that the State Democratic Committee had endorsed U.S. Rep. P. Kanjorski and U.S. Sen. A. Specter. The County Democratic Committee has endorsed U.S. Rep. P. Kanjorski, PA Reps .K. Murphy and K. Smith and J. Corcoran for PA Senate.

A motion was made by K. Waltz and seconded by J. Telesco to pay for 2 tickets to a fund raiser for U.S. Congressman C. Carney to be held on Sunday, March 7 2010.

A motion was made to adjourn the meeting by M. Loftus and seconded by D. Mazurkivitch. Meeting adjourned at 4:57 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

_______________________________________________________________________________

General Membership Meeting – March 18, 2010

The March 18, 2010 General Membership Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held at Scranton High School. The meeting was called to order at 3:45 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland.

President Boland led those assembled in the pledge of attendance which was followed by a moment of silence for the troops now serving in foreign countries. President Boland offered the Union’s condolences to those members who have recently lost members of their families.

Secretary’s Report

Secretary/ Treasurer Kevin Kays read the minutes from the February General Membership Meeting. Hearing no corrections or additions, a motion was made by

K Bharkhda and seconded by L. Kurpis to accept the minutes as read. Motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer Kevin Kays gave his Treasurer’s Report. He stated that all financial commitments have been satisfied and the SFT is in compliance with the 2009- 2010 budget numbers.

Secretary/ Kays reported that the SFT has had two audits performed in recent months – one by the IRS and the other by the State Worker’s Insurance Fund. Both audits received favorable results.

President’s Report

President Boland reported on the following:

*visits to several of the elementary schools regarding Special Education classes and situations that are occurring in these classes. President Boland also addressed the concerns of the Special Education teachers who are experiencing inconsistent directions in the completion of reports. President Boland stated that the regulations for these reports must be consistent. She said that the teachers need clear, written instructions and a sample of what is expected in these reports

*concerns related to the data input which is mandated for several elementary supplementary reading programs. One of these concerns is the inability of the teachers to see and review this data but principals do have this ability.

* discussion of whose responsibility it is to order PASSA tests for special education teachers as well as who is the supplier of the video recorders and discs for these tests.

*the Collective Bargaining Agreement has a defined school day. President Boland stated that teachers do not have to attend 2:00 Tuesday meetings. This is a planning period for the elementary teachers. Continuing to schedule meetings for this time period will result in a grievance.

*congratulations to the Scranton High School Advanced Chorus for their outstanding performance at the recent Irish Women Society’s Annual St. Patrick’s Day Dinner.

*congratulations and continued success to the Scranton High School Basketball

K nights for their recent achievements

*NPCTM will have a meeting April 29, 2010 at St. Mary’s Center. Those who attend will receive 2 Act 48 hours for attending. This might be helpful to some members who are in need of hours.

* a reminder to those members who are planning to resign to have their letter of their intent to resign to Mr. Vail by April 1, 2010.

New Business

Issues of concern mentioned by members-

*what is the chain of command when a Principal is not in the building when an emergency situation takes place that needs an administrator‘s attention, could their be a letter clarifying who is in charge in this type of situation. President Boland advised members to make a call to the Administration Building if this situation occurs.

*a need for elementary teachers to have a model/instructions as to the grading of report cards for students with I.E.P.s.

*the position of Chief Nurse has not yet been filled by the Scranton School Board, there is concern about length of time the District has been without a Chief Nurse and there is concern about who is actually performing the duties of the Chief School Nurse.

*the inclusion of Lourdesmont personnel and students at Scranton High School, concerns were raised about additional paperwork by faculty for these students.

A motion to adjourn was made by J. Buckley and seconded by N. Cangemi. Meeting adjourned at 5:10P.M.

COPE meeting convened at 5:10 P.M.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Executive Committee Meeting – May 4, 2010

The May Executive Committee Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Tuesday, May 4, 2010. The meeting was called to order by President Rosemary Boland at 3:45 P.M.

Members present: V. Amico, R. Boland, M. Loftus, K. Waltz, J. Zaleski, J. Telesco,

K. Opshinsky, D. Mazurkivitch, J. Baldauff, K. Kays, A. Geiger, K. Beckwith, M. Doran,

M. Wazowicz

Members excused: D. Walter, M. Byron, T. Anderson, D. Powell, P. Festa, A. Trapani,

V. Wojnar

Secretary’s Report

Minutes from the April meeting were distributed to the members present. A motion was made by J. Telesco and seconded by A. Geiger to accept the minutes. Motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays discussed the monthly financial statement presented to the Executive Committee. He stated that the SFT is consistent with the proposed budget for this fiscal year. The report is on file at the SFT office.

President’s Report

President Boland congratulated the SFT and its members on behalf of the United Way of Lackawanna County and Wayne counties for our contributions to this cause. The SFT was the recipient of the William E. Cockerill Sr. Award at its recent Breakfast Awards Meeting held April 29, 2010. The SFT also received the LUW’s Award of Merit.

Grievance Update

On April 30, 2010, R. Boland, M. Loftus, P. Festa and K. Waltz attended a meeting with Mr. King, Mr. Vail and Ms. Damiano concerning three grievances filed at Morris School – issues were paras used to supervise students without teacher and administrative supervision, teachers denied work and a meeting held on a Tuesday prep period. As of today, no answer had been received on these grievances.

Other issues-

A posting at Willard and Bancroft School concerning a pilot program about student behavior. Pres. Boland stated that no district funds were being used to fund this program, money was coming from the State.

The roofing situation at Armstrong School and its effects on teachers and students were also discussed.

Letters were being sent to the district principals, as per contract language, to send to the SFT, schedules for the 2010 -2011 school year.

The SFT will once again participate in the Breast Cancer Coalition Batting Competition to be held at the Stadium Ballpark on July 26, 2010. President Boland asked for interested individuals to contact the office. The SFT hopes to have two teams participate again this year.

President Boland mentioned that two of our members are still in need of donated sick days to enable them to complete this school year. Forms are available at the SFT office.

New Business

K. Beckwith questioned for what are the 3 early dismissals being held at the WSIS during the month of May. It was determined that one of the days was due to participation in the LUW drive. President Boland will get further clarification about this type of day and it usage for the elementary schools in light of the fact that these teachers will not have a student less day on June 10, 2010. The suggestion was also made that the elementary teachers not distribute report cards on Friday, June 11, 2010 since there is no time without students to prepare them but rather complete them the following week and then have the report cards mailed.

A motion was made by K. Waltz and seconded by J. Telesco that the repayment of scholarship money, transferred in 2005 due to lack of scholarship monies, to the general fund be forgiven. Motion passed.

A. Geiger questioned the grading of students in academic subjects who are not present for these classes due to their involvement in the Fast Forward Reading Program.

D. Mazurkivitch asked if there had been a meeting the Committee on the High School Dress Code. President Boland stated that this had not happened yet, but there had been a meeting of the Safety Committee and The Special Education Committee. M. Doran reported that this Committee was reviewing the Special Education Plan from 2007.

President Boland also noted the In-Service Committee has also not met, yet there are District guidelines as to the number of meetings per year for this Committee.

President Boland and several SFT members will be meeting with U.S. Rep. Chris Carney on Monday, May 10, 2010 at 4:00 P.M. in his Clarks Summit Office.

A motion was made by J. Baldauff and seconded by J. Telesco to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 4:55 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

General Membership Meeting – May 20, 2010

President Rosemary Boland called the May General Membership Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers to order at 3:50.P.M.

President Boland led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance which was then followed by a moment of silence and remembrance for members with medical problems.

At this time, President Boland introduced representatives from Prudential Financial Services. These representatives informed the membership of several dates for upcoming retirement seminars. These representatives are familiar with the PSER’s retirement system and are confident that these seminars will enable our membership to be comfortable with their retirement options. Brochures have been distributed to the schools with these seminar dates.

Secretary’s Report

Secretary/ Treasurer Kevin Kays read the minutes from the March General Membership Meeting. A motion was made by J. Buckley and seconded by L. Kurpis to accept the minutes. The motion passed.

Treasurer’s Report

Secretary/Treasurer Kays reported that all current bills are paid and all accounts are reconciled. The report is on file at the SFT office.

President’s Report

Grievance/Arbitration Update

*Arbitration papers have been filed concerning the appointment of the Chief Nurse.

*Of the 3 grievances filed at Morris School, 2 Grievances have been granted by Mr. King. The last grievance has been moved to the Board level.

Other Business

President Boland gave a thank- you to the Federation members who are retiring this year and wished them well in their future years.

President Boland announced that the Scranton Federation of Teachers has awarded over $8000.00 to graduating seniors at West Scranton High School and Scranton High School.

Scholarship recipients at West Scranton High School are- Kelsey Murphy

Amy Persons

Marina Jeffrey

Jacqueline Wood

Elliot Zackoski

Scholarship recipients at Scranton High School are - Grace Wazowicz

Autumn Gramigna

Meredith McGrath

Alyssa Potter

President Boland gave special thanks to the following agencies for their contributions to the SFT Scholarship Fund – Prudential, AFT Plus and Cummings Insurance Agency.

President Boland also made note that scholarship monies come from the colleges that send student teachers to the Scranton School district. In lieu of teachers receiving money for having student teachers, the money is shared equally between the Scranton School District and the Scranton Federation of Teachers. District teachers also accept Field Experience students. President Boland would like to suggest to these colleges and universities that Act 48 hours be given to teachers for who accept Field Experience students.

President Boland informed members that a special benefit was planned for Bob Stott, husband of Margaret Stott, a teacher in the Scranton School District who has medical problems. This benefit will be held at Holy Rosary Center this coming weekend.

President Boland thanked members who had recently donated sick days to several members who were in need because of catastrophic illnesses.

New Business

Issues addressed –

*status of newly hired teachers who are alarmed at the recent newspaper article stating that there is a possibility that some teachers will be furloughed at the end of this school term. President Boland stated that she had not been contacted about layoffs / furloughs and she had not had a staffing meeting with Mr. Vail as of this date.

*members asked about the feasibility of having a seniority list at each school. President Boland stated that the Principal could request this from Mr. Vail.

*M. Fitzpatrick addressed those assembled on behalf of the District’s Speech Therapists. She spoke to several issues that have been of concern to the Speech Department. President Boland would contact the Administration about a meeting with representatives of the Speech Department. P. Festa suggested that these representatives address specific issues of concern with their Department.

*the problem of assigning grades to students who have arrived late in the school year and who have not completed work sufficient to properly be assessed.

* a motion was made by R. Mercuri and seconded by L. Kurpis to direct the President to make a Global Connect call to notify SFT members of General Membership Meetings. President Boland informed those present that meeting dates for the school year are reserved in August in order to use the Scranton High School Auditorium.

* J. Zaleski reported that the In-Service Committee would be meeting the next week.

* K. Beckwith inquired about a solution to report card prep time. President Boland announced that there was no response as of yet to that question.

At this time, B. Jordan and J. Buckley, who are retiring at the end of this school year, addressed the membership. They pointed out that this was their last Union meeting. They gave a thank-you to the Executive Board and to the Union for its hard work throughout their years of membership.

A motion to adjourn was made by J. Telesco and seconded by J. Zaleski. Meeting adjourned at 5:30 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

_____