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 13th 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,
_____________________________________________________________________________
Executive Committee Meeting – June 2, 2010
The June Executive Committee Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was called to order at 3:45 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland.
Members present: R. Boland, K. Kays, M. Loftus, K. Waltz, V. Wojnar, J. Baldauff,
J. Telesco, M. Doran, J. Zaleski, P. Festa, D. Mazurkivich, K. Opshinsky, M. Byron, M. Wazowicz, T. Anderson, A. Geiger, D. Powell, A. Trapani
Members excused: K. Beckwith, V. Amico, D. Walter
Secretary’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays distributed the minutes of the May Executive Committee Meeting to those present. Hearing no corrections or additions, a motion was made by J. Balduaff and seconded by V. Wojnar to accept the minutes as read. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays distributed the monthly financial statement to the Committee members. Mr. Kays stated that the Year End Report will be available at the next Executive Committee meeting. The monthly report as usual is on file at the SFT office.
President’s Report
President Boland reported that a grievance had been filed on the school closing procedures for the 2009-2010 year. Mr. King’s closing schedule had the Pre-K and Kindergarten students coming on Friday, June 11 as well as various special education classes which had not been past practice. Scranton High School is to graduate at 5:00 P.M. on Friday, June 11. President Boland questioned how parents who had work hours to this time would be able to attend. She also noted that Monday, June 14, 2010 would be SAS training and that Tuesday’s dismissal time is to be 10:00 A.M.
President Boland reported that she had a staffing meeting with Mr. Vail. He was working with schedules and shifting people around so that no one is without a job. Mr. Vail did state that that there will be no replacement for 10 of the 17 retirees.
President Boland was having a meeting with Rep. Ken Smith at 10:00 A.M. on June 3, 2010. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the tax hole for big businesses that is found in Pennsylvania.
President Boland had a grievance hearing with the Board on Monday, June 1, 2010 pertaining to the use of Paras to cover students without supervision at Morris School President Boland reminded the Board that there had already been a mediation on the appropriate uses of Paras. She also pointed out Mr. McTiernan’s memo about the use of Paras in after school programs. President Boland noted that there was no posting by Mr. Vail for Paras to work in an after school program.
Other issues mentioned:
Effect of change in school district populations on future dues income
Members who have taken 2 leaves in succession will be asked by Mr. Vail what are their plans of returning to work
The denial of Mr. King to the Principal of Audubon School for a late start for faculty members to attend the funeral of L. Laboranti, a Para at the building.
New Business
The following subjects were brought to the attention of the Executive committee –
· EAP tutoring program
· School Nurse arbitration
· Elementary Library prep periods not held for the last 2 weeks of school
· Bus trip to Washington scheduled for September, 2010
A motion to adjourn was made by P. Festa and seconded by J. Telesco. Meeting adjourned at 4:50 P.M.
COPE Meeting
A COPE meeting convened at 4:50 P.M. Discussion ensued.
A motion to adjourn as made by K. Waltz and seconded by P. Festa. Meeting adjourned at 5:00 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
___________________________________________
Executive Committee Meeting – August 19, 2010
The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Thursday, August 19, 2010. President Rosemary Boland called the meeting to order at 10:10 A.M.
Members present: R. Boland, P. Festa, M. Loftus, K. Kays, K. Waltz, V. Wojnar,
J. Baldauff, V. Amico, M. Doran, A. Geiger, D. Mazurkivich, J. Telesco, D. Powell,
T. Anderson, M. Wazowicz, M. Byron, K. Opshinsky
Members Excused: A. Trapani, P. McDonough, J. Zaleski, K. Beckwith
Secretary’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer Kevin Kays presented the minutes of the June Executive Meeting to those present for their inspection. Hearing no corrections or amendments, a motion was made by A. Geiger and seconded by P. Festa to accept the minutes as read. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer Kevin Kays distributed the financial report to the Committee members. He noted that this report reflected financial activities for the past fiscal year.
This report, as all other monthly reports, is on file in the SFT office.
President’s Report
President Boland gave the following grievance update:
The Arbitration for the Nurses’, an arbitrator has been assigned but a date has not yet been set for the proceedings.
The third grievance from Morris School concerning the use of Paraprofessionals and student coverage, Superintendent King called and read a letter to President Boland that acknowledged the grievance has been granted.
The Federation has composed a draft of an administrator evaluation tool. This tool is a part of Race to the Top. The draft was circulated to the Committee members. President Boland also stated that she will be serving on a state committee that will develop an evaluation procedure that will be a pilot in certain PA school districts.
New Business
Concerns brought to the attention of the Board:
Recent changes at the state level effecting nurses’ and time spent with students who have had medications. Because of time mandated to be with these students and scheduling conflicts, the District is pursuing the use of LPNs in such cases.
Class sizes are already beyond contractual language at several schools, this affect on teachers who were surplused and their ability to return to their previous positions.
Question about the negotiation schedule for his year.
A motion was made by J. Telesco and seconded by K. Waltz that the SFT will donate pencils as a give away for the Children’s Corner, part of the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure to be held Saturday, September 11, 2010. Motion passed.
A motion was made by K. Waltz and seconded by J. Telesco the M. Byron take charge of the planning with her Committee for the annual SFT Outing and will give a report at the September Executive Committee meeting. Motion passed.
A motion to adjourn was made by V. Wojnar and seconded by M. Doran. Meeting adjourned at 11:05 A.M.
COPE meeting convened at 11:05 A.M.
President Boland introduced Jay Andrews, from the American Federation of Teachers. Mr. Andrews will be in our area for the next 11 weeks helping with the AFL-CIO’s efforts in the PA Senate, Congressional and Governor’s elections.
President Boland also noted that Congressman Paul Kanjorski will be holding a fundraiser/rally on Thursday, September 2, 2010 at the Waldorf Social Park.
A motion to adjourn was made by D. Mazurkivich and seconded by A. Geiger. Meeting adjourned at 11:10 A.M.
Respectfully submitted,
_________________________________________________________________________________
Executive Committee Meeting – September 8, 2010
The September 8, 2010 Executive Committee Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was called to order at 3:50 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland.
Members present: R. Boland, K.Waltz, D. Walter, V. Wojnar, A. Trapani, J. Zaleski,
K. Opshinsky, J. Telesco, M. Doran, K. Kays, M. Loftus, P. Festa
Members excused: M. Wazowicz, D. Mazurkivich, J. Baldauff, V. Amico, D. Powell, T. Anderson, K. Beckwith
Secretary’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays distributed the minutes from the August Executive Committee Meeting to the Board members. Hearing no corrections or additions, a motion was made by V. Wojnar and seconded by A. Trapani to accept the minutes as read. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays distributed the monthly Balance Sheet to the Board. This report is on file at the SFT office. Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays circulated a letter from John Feldman, Financial Director of the AFT, who conducted the recent audit of the SFT.
Mr. Feldman commended Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays for his record keeping and found all financial matters to be in order.
President’s Report
Old Business
the Scranton Federation of Teachers was convened at 5:25 P.M.
President Boland announced that there would be guests at the October 13, 2010 General Membership meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers. Congressman Paul Kanjorski and Congressman Chris Carney will be attending this meeting. President Boland asked the Executive Committee members to encourage their members to attend this General membership meeting.
A motion was made by K. Waltz and seconded by J. Telesco to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at 5:30 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
_____________________________________________________________
Executive Committee Meeting – October 4, 2010
The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Monday, October 4, 2010. President Rosemary Boland called the meeting to order at 3:55 P.M.
Members present: R. Boland, K. Waltz, M. Loftus, D. Mazurkivich, M. Doran,
J. Telesco, J. Zaleski, J. Baldauff, M. Byron, K. Opshinsky, K.Kays, K. Beckwith,
A. Trapani, D. Powell, A. Geiger, V. Wojnar, T. Anderson, P. Festa
Members excused: M. Wazowicz, V. Amico, D. Walter
Secretary’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays distributed the minutes from the September meeting to the Committee members present. Hearing no additions or corrections, a motion was made by D. Mazurkivich and seconded by A. Trapani to accept the minutes as read. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
Treasurer K. Kays had no formal report at this time because all bank statements had not yet been received at the office. He will have an end of September report at the next Executive Committee meeting. Mr. Kays also stated that a yearly budget will be presented at this same meeting.
Mr. Kays distributed 3 packets that related to the SFT’s non-profit status. Members completed a questionnaire that will remain on file at the SFT office. A motion was made by K. Kays and seconded by D. Powell to adopt a Conflict of Interest Policy. Motion passed. A motion to accept a Whistleblower’s Policy was made by K. Kays and seconded by K. Waltz.
Motion passed.
President’s Report
Grievance/Arbitration /Unfair Labor Updates
Grievance #8 involving the Planetarium position at WSIS has been resolved. J. Baldauff has been assigned to this position and a teacher from Scranton High will be assigned the Industrial Arts Position at WSIS.
The Arbitration for Chief Nurse had to be rescheduled and the SFT is awaiting a new date for this arbitration.
The SFT applied for a mediator as required by Act 88 for contract negotiations. Mr. John Yanchulis has been appointed to this position.
President Boland reminded everyone that the General Membership meeting would be on October 13, 2010 and there would be a possibility of special speakers.
The SFT Outing will be held on Friday, November 5, 2010 at the St. George’s Hall. The event will begin at 6:00 P.M. and continue until 10:00 P.M. EJ the DJ will provide musical entertainment. This year’s theme will be patriotic, baskets and gift cards will be raffled off for the Scholarship Fund. Cost will be $20.00 for anyone attending. Flyers will be distributed to the schools will further information. A motion was made to spend $150.00 for the Hall rental and $250.00 for the DJ by P. Festa and seconded by K. Opshinsky. Motion passed.
A motion was made by P. Festa and seconded by J. Telesco, to purchase a digital camera for use by the SFT. Motion passed
M. Loftus made note that Kathy Waltz was honored at the Seattle Convention with the Living Legacy Reward for 40 years of service to education and the union.
A motion to adjourn was made by T. Anderson and seconded J. Telesco. Meeting adjourned at 5:35 P.M.
A COPE meeting convened at 5:35 P.M. President Boland reported that J. Andrews
would be at the ASCME Building in Throop on Saturdays. There is a need for union members to work in teams visiting Union houses.
A motion was made by R. Boland to donate $300.00 from the COPE Fund to the campaign of John Yudichak. Motion passed.
A motion was made by J. Telesco and seconded by M. Doran to contribute $250.00 to the campaigns of Rep. Kevin Murphy and Rep. Ken Smith. Motion passed.
A motion to adjourn was made by J. Telesco and seconded by V. Wojnar. Motion passed. Meeting adjourned at 5:50 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
_________________________________________
General Membership Meeting – October 13, 2010
President Rosemary Boland called the General Membership Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers to order at 3:45 P.M. on Wednesday, October 13, 2010.
President Boland led those assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a moment of silence for members who have lost family members or who have medical problems.
At this time, President Boland introduced several guests representing the Prudential and Liberty Mutual Insurance Companies. Members were reminded of the various offerings being made to the membership. An upcoming retirement seminar will be held on October 20, 2010 for those interested teachers. The Prudential and Liberty Mutual Companies are offering 15 scholarships for National Board Certification for Teachers. Additional grants are available for school programs.
Secretary’s Report
Secretary /Treasurer K. Kays read the minutes from the May, 2010 General Membership meeting. Hearing no corrections or additions, a motion was made by K. Secor and seconded by M. Foley to accept the minutes as read. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays reported that Mr. John Feldman, Chief Financial Officer of the AFT recently completed the annual audit of the SFT. Mr. Feldman reported that the books were in excellent condition, there were no internal weaknesses and all accounts are reconciled. Mr. Kays announced that a Budget Committee meeting would be held in the near future.
President’s Report
President Boland has filed 10 grievances so far this year. She also announced that the arbitration date for the Chief Nurse had to be cancelled due to the death of School Director Frank Brazill. The Federation is waiting for a new date. She also noted that the Federation is ready to proceed at any time.
Questions have arisen concerning the naming of a faculty for the new West Scranton
Elementary School. Faculties of the closed schools will be the first to be assigned to this school. Displaced teachers with super seniority will be the second group assigned. If there are other positions available, anyone can bid these jobs.
President Boland has made visits to several elementary schools concerning water issues. She commended the faculty, Principal, aides and all others who are involved at Audubon School for their response to the recent mold situation. She stated that a decision must be made about where the students and faculty and staff should be located.
Another situation of water leaking through a roof has been found at Prescott School. The District is dealing with all of these situations.
The Scranton School Board will be passing a Policy on Tobacco on school grounds at the next meeting. This policy will include everybody.
President Boland reported that she is a member of a state committee whose purpose is to design a principal’s evaluation tool. She is 1 of 2 teachers on this committee. She also reported that at a recent meeting of the AFT-PA state committee, there was quite a bit of talk concerning PSERS and SERS pension plans. A bill has been introduced that will greatly effect new hirees.
New Business
Issues addressed included-
School air quality and the effects of water damage through leaking roofs.
Speech therapists and the paper work expectations of each therapist
Homebound teacher’s seniority list
Progressive monitoring (DIBELS) by a regular classroom teacher
President Boland reported that the District has been notified that the Federation is ready for contract negotiations. A mediator has been assigned for the negotiation process.
A survey form will be sent in the near future to all members to list the contract issues important to them other than salary and health benefits.
A motion to adjourn was made by G. Mulrine and seconded by K. Secor. Meeting adjourned at 4:45 P.M.
A COPE meeting convened at 4:45 P.M.
President Boland introduced guest speakers, Rep. Ken Smith and Nathan Barrett. The importance of this upcoming election and the impact it will have on teachers and education budgets was stressed by both speakers.
President Boland announced that every Saturday at the ASCME building in Throop, volunteers are needed in assisting with Election Walks. Volunteers, in teams of 2, visit homes of Union members to encourage participation in the upcoming election. SFT representation is needed for the next several weekends.
A motion to adjourn was made by K. Secor and seconded by many. Motion passed. Meeting adjourned at 5:10 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
__________________________________________
Executive Committee Meeting – November 3, 2010
The November 3, 2010 Executive Committee Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was called to order at 3:50 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland.
Members present: R. Boland, M. Loftus, K. Waltz, D. Mazurkivich, P. Festa, A. Trapani,
T. Anderson, D. Powell, D. Walter, K. Kays, V. Wojnar, V. Amico, K. Opshinsky,
J. Baldauff, A. Geiger, M.Doran, J. Telesco, J. Zaleski
Members excused: M. Byron, K. Beckwith
Secretary’s Report
Minutes from the October Executive Committee Meeting were distributed and reviewed by members present. Hearing no additions or corrections, a motion was made by P. Festa and seconded by D. Mazurkivich to accept the minutes. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays distributed the monthly financial statement noting that this report was as of the date September 30, 2010. Secretary/Treasurer Kays distributed the proposed budget for 2010 – 2011. The Budget Committee comprised of the SFT Officers and Trustees met on October 15, 2010 to develop this proposed budget. A motion to accept the proposed budget was made by V. Wojnar and seconded by K. Waltz. Motion passed.
President’s Report
Grievances/Arbitration/ Unfair Labor
President Boland received notification that the Chief Nurse Arbitration is scheduled for November 29, 2010 by the AAA. The District has never responded to this date. The SFT is prepared to proceed with this arbitration on November 29.
President Boland reported that Paraprofessionals at McNichols Plaza and Kennedy School have been hurt by students. A grievance will be filed on behalf of a para at Kennedy School. This para is “shadowing” a student throughout the day and the one Kindergarten teacher is not receiving this para’s services as per contract language.
An additional grievance will be filed concerning time allotted to a para for imputing student data into computers. A para, who must spend his/her time engaged with students, has only the time of 2:00 P.M. on Tuesday for this duty. A Principal has found this time not acceptable and has proceeded to write up the para for lack of data input.
A grievance was filed at Morris School concerning lack of student textbooks as of Day 36. Day 42, textbooks started to arrive. The school year began for students on August 30, 2010.
Other issues discussed:
The In-Service Committee will be meeting on Thursday, November 4, 2010. Members completed a survey in their schools regarding the topics in which SFT had interest for in-service sessions. The Committee was informed that the elementary staff was already scheduled for some topic.
President Boland distributed an article “Students and Facebook, a toxic mix” and asked the members to post this on SFT Bulletin Boards.
President Boland shared correspondence that she received from AFT-PA stating that the Bethel Park Federation of Teachers was on strike as of Tuesday, October19, 2010. The Neshaminy Federation of Teachers is now in its third year without a contract.
President Boland brought to the members a request from L. Kurpis, ER&D Site Coordinator, an issue concerning members who are taking ER&D courses who want to change from credits to hours and vice versa. After much discussion and several proposed motions, the following motion was made by D. Powell and seconded by J. Telesco – Members who sign up for ER&D classes and select either credits or ACT 48 hours will not be allowed to change from their original choice and there will be no refund for dropping a course. Motion passed.
A report was made by K. Waltz on behalf of M. Byron concerning the SFT Outing which is scheduled for Friday, November 5, 2010. A Mohegan Sun basket will be raffled off and proceeds will be given to the SFT Scholarship Fund. The evening begins at 6:00 P.M. at St. George’s Hall, Keyser Avenue, Taylor
New Business
Issues brought to the Committee’s attention:
*Phone/Intercom system problems at West Scranton High School and Northeast Intermediate School.
*lack of a phone in the Medical room at Armstrong School
* the situation at Audubon School
*ESL. Special Education, and Lourdesmont student placements at Scranton High School
A motion to adjourn was made by P. Festa and seconded by J. Telesco. Meeting adjourned at 5:15 P.M.
_______________________________________________
Executive Committee Meeting – December 2, 2010
The Executive Committee Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Thursday, December 2, 2010. The meeting was called to order at 3:45 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland.
Members present: V. Wojnar, D. Walter, R. Boland, K. Waltz, M. Loftus, K. Kays
T. Anderson, D. Mazurkivich, K. Opshinsky, A. Geiger, K. Beckwith, M. Byron
J. Telesco, J. Zaleski
Members excused: V. Amico, J. Baldauff, M. Doran, A. Trapani, P. Festa, D. Powell
Secretary’s Report
Minutes from the last Executive Meeting were reviewed by those present. Hearing no corrections or additions, a motion was made by K. Beckwith and seconded by A. Geiger to accept the minutes as presented. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer Kevin Kays distributed the monthly financial statement to the Executive Committee members. As always, this report is on file at the SFT office.
President’s Report
Grievances/Arbitrations/Unfair Labor Practices
President Boland reported that the Arbitration concerning the Chief Nurse would be held on December 14, 2010.
President Boland also reported on the following Grievances:
No response has been received form Superintendent King concerning Grievance No. 11
Grievance No. 12 was partially denied and partially upheld. This grievance concerned the inputting of data by a paraprofessional and the lack of scheduled time in order to do this. President Boland stated the Union is not through with this.
Grievance No. 13 concerned a Kindergarten paraprofessional , because of assignment by the principal to a particular student, is not having contact on a daily basis with one of the 2 Kindergarten teachers to whom she is assigned. This grievance will be moved to the Board level.
Grievance No. 14 will also be moved to the Board level. This grievance concerns outside individuals evaluating teachers.
President Boland recently met with members of the Robert Morris School Faculty at their request.
New Business
President Boland has asked, under the Right to Know Law, for information from the SSD about several issues.
Survey sheets will be distributed to the membership for their input into the upcoming Contract negotiations. Returns are to be made by December 14, 2010 to the SFT office.
Other issues discussed:
*the lack of return of discipline slips to classroom teachers to know what was the consequence of the action
*billing issues for the Speech therapists for their services
President Boland will be asking for a meeting with the Scranton School Board since several serious issues must be discussed.
A motion to donate $100.00 to Catholic Social Services was made by K. Waltz and seconded by V. Wojnar. Motion passed.
A motion to purchase a laptop computer and projector for use in the upcoming contract negotiations was made by J. Telesco and seconded by D. Mazurkivich. Motion passed.
A motion to adjourn was made by J. Telesco and seconded by T. Anderson. Motion passed.
Meeting adjourned at 5:30 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
____________________________________________
General Membership Meeting – December 9, 2010
A General Membership Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Thursday, December 9, 2010 at Scranton High School. President Rosemary Boland called the meeting to order at 3:50 P.M.
President Boland led those assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a moment of silence in honor of the men and women and their families who are now serving in the U.S. military.
Secretary’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays read the minutes of the October membership meeting. A motion was made by L. Kurpis and seconded by S. Rybitski to accept the minutes as read. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays reported that all properly submitted bills have been paid, including the President’s salary and that all accounts are reconciled. He also reported that the Budget Committee of the SFT met on September 15. A budget was presented to the Executive Committee and this budget was accepted. As always, the Treasurer’s report is on file at the SFT office. Secretary/Treasurer Kays wished Happy Holidays to all assembled.
President’s Report
President R. Boland reported that there have been a total of 15 grievances for the year beginning January 2010. 10 of these grievances have been sustained. There has been no reply to the 11th grievance concerning lack of textbooks at Morris School. On day 65 of the school year, math books have been received but are the wrong issue. As to the Grievances 12, 13, 14 and 15, one was partially granted and partially denied. Several of these grievances will be refilled at the Board level.
The Arbitration for the Chief Nurse position will be held on December 14, 2010.
President Boland reported that the next Scranton School Board meeting will not be held before December 20, 2010. Principals presented “wish lists” to the Administration and
these will be sent to the School Directors.
President Boland announced that Attorney McGrath had approached her concerning the scheduling of dates for contract negotiations. President Boland will be meeting with all the necessary parties this week to organize this schedule.
President Boland made note that the membership should have received survey forms for their input in contract issues. These forms are to be returned to SFT building reps by December 14, 2010. The District is already making reference to the fact that there is “no money” because of retirement obligations to PSERS.
President Boland informed the membership, that the State is preparing new evaluation forms for teachers and administrators. Starting in the second semester of this year, faculties will be listed “S” or “U”, school by school and District by District.
New Business
Issues brought to the floor:
*homebound teachers and seniority as related to placement of students.
*questions regarding who will be evaluating principals under the new system
* the acquisition of more and more computer programs in the elementary school, the constant reporting from these programs and the amount of time a student must spend on each program.
President Boland wished everyone a Happy and Healthy Holiday!
A motion to adjourn was made by L. Kurpis and seconded by M. Holmes. Motion passed.
Meeting adjourned at 4:39 P.M.
_________________________________________________
Executive Committee Meeting – January 10, 2011
The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Monday, January 10, 2011. President Rosemary Boland called the meeting to order at 3:50 P.M.
Members present: R. Boland, D. Walter, J. Baldauff, K. Kays, K. Waltz, M. Loftus,
V. Wojnar, D. Powell, J. Zaleski, K. Opshinsky, J. Telesco, P. Festa, M. Byron, M. Doran, D. Mazurkivich, A. Trapani, A. Geiger, T. Anderson
Members excused: V.Amico, K. Beckwith
President Boland announced that there would be a special School Board meeting tonight to make some administrative changes in the District. She also addressed issues concerning District Nurses, Special Education Teachers, and situations facing District Diagnosticians and Speech Therapists.
Secretary’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays distributed the minutes from the last Executive Committee Meeting for review by Committee members. Hearing no additions or corrections, a motion was made by D. Mazurkivich and seconded by A. Trapani to accept the minutes as presented. Motion carried.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays presented the monthly financial statement to those present.
As usual, these reports are available at the SFT office for inspection.
President’s Report
President Boland announced that contract negotiations will begin January 20, 2011.
At this time, President Boland put the meeting into Executive Session to discuss the upcoming negotiations.
Old Business
Grievance/ Arbitration/Unfair Labor Updates
President Boland stated that a continuance of the Nurses’ arbitration will be on March 4, 2011.
New Business
The following issues were brought to the floor by various Executive Committee members:
*age span for Life Skill classes
*tutoring concerns for teachers at Audubon School
A motion to adjourn was made by V. Wojnar and seconded by J. Zaleski.
Meeting adjourned at 5:20 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
___________________________________________________
Executive Committee Meeting – February 3, 2011
The Scranton Federation of Teachers held its latest Executive Committee Meeting on Thursday, February 3, 2011. The meeting was called to order at 3:45 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland.
Members present: R. Boland, K. Waltz, J. Telesco, D. Walter, P. Festa, M. Loftus,
A.Geiger, V. Wojnar, A. Trapani, K. Kays, M. Byron, K. Opshinsky, D. Powell,
D. Mazurkivich, V. Amico, M. Doran, J. Zaleski, J. Baldauff, K. Beckwith
Members excused: T. Anderson
Secretary’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays distributed the minutes of the last Executive Committee Meeting to the members. Hearing no corrections or additions, a motion was made by D. Mazurkivich and seconded by P. Festa to accept the minutes as read. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays distributed the monthly financial report to the Committee members. This report is on file at the SFT office.
President’s Report
President Boland distributed a letter from Mr. Gregg Sunday stating that the mileage rate for this year will be $.51 per mile.
President Boland also explained that beginning with the February pay checks, the tax on the Life Insurance benefit (money over $50,000.00) will be taken out of the first pay check of each month. Because of not doing this in January, this will occur for the 2 February pay checks. This practice will eliminate the one time payment that had been taken out in a December check.
President Boland, then, put the meeting into Executive Session in order to discuss Contract negotiations and personnel issues.
Old Business
President Boland reported the Grievance #2 for 2011 had been filed concerning a change of elementary lunch periods on January 21, 2011. Because of a snow delay and an early dismissal, some buildings had a reduced lunch period (from 40 to20 minutes). The remedy will be that the affected schools, on the next early dismissal for report cards, will be dismissed 20 minutes early.
At the present time, 3 grievances are at the Board level and the SFT is awaiting a date to meet with the appropriate Committee.
President Boland also stated that a grievance will be filed if class size goes over CBA numbers because of “push –ins” of autistic or other category students.
New Business
At this time, President Boland asked for names of Committee members to be on a slate of Delegates for the state AFT-PA conference to be held this June in Pittsburgh.
The following members placed their names in nomination- J. Baldauff, P. Festa,
A. Trapani, K. Waltz, J. Telesco, M. Loftus, R. Boland, K. Kays
A motion was made by J. Telesco and seconded by M. Byron to adjourn.
Meeting adjourned at 6:10. P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
_____________________________________________
General Membership Meeting – February 9, 2011
A General Membership Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers was held on Wednesday, February 9, 2011 at Scranton High School. President Rosemary Boland called the meeting to order at 3:50 P.M.
President Boland led those assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance which was followed by a moment of silence for those troops now serving overseas.
Secretary’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays read the minutes from the December 9, 2011 General Membership Meeting. Hearing no corrections or additions, a motion was made by
P. Carr and seconded by M. Burke to accept the minutes as read. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays reported that all accounts are reconciled, all properly presented bills are paid and that the SFT is financially sound.
President’s Report
President Boland reminded teachers that level 2 certificate requirement documentation be sent to the Department of Education in Harrisburg. This is the teacher’s responsibility.
The second issue mentioned was Act 48 hours. A new cycle has begun for the 180 hours. Members can check the PDE website for a member’s current status.
President Boland stated that the IN-Service Committee will meet to address Act 48 hours and professional development.
Grievance Update
President Boland reported that, at this time, 3 grievances are at the Board level. The SFT is awaiting a date to meet with the Labor Relations Committee.
President Boland also reported that a second grievance for 2011 has been filed. This grievance concerned reduced lunch times at several elementary schools caused by a snow delay on an early dismissal day (Jan. 21, 2011). The remedy is to allow teachers in the affected schools to leave 20 minutes early on the next early dismissal day for report cards.
Contract Negotiations
On February 10, 2011, the SFT will conduct its third Contract Negotiations session. At the first meeting, the SFT presented Contract proposals for the professional staff and the paraprofessional staff. The SFT presented the District with both monetary and non-monetary proposals. The Scranton School District presented the SFT with only non-monetary proposals. At this session, parties clarified article changes. At the second negotiation session, more non-monetary proposals were addressed. President Boland stated that articles in the current CBA are under fire. No rationale has been presented for proposed articles. No monetary articles were presented by the District at this time. The mediator did inquire if the District had provided needed information that was requested earlier. The District had not.
President Boland thanked P. Festa for his work compiling the results of the surveys submitted by the membership for Contract proposals. These suggestions were taken into account for the CBA proposals.
Delegate Nominations
President Boland introduced the following slate of delegates for the AFT-PA Conference which will be held in Pittsburgh from June 24 -26, 2011.
The nominees are: R. Boland, K. Kays, M. Loftus, J. Telesco, P. Festa, K. Waltz,
A. Trapani, J. Baldauff. No nominations were made from the floor. President Boland requested a vote of acclamation for the slate. A motion was made by J. Gatelli and seconded by K. Bharkhda. Motion passed and the slate was elected.
New Business
The following issues were brought to the floor by various members:
*concerns related to Gov. Corbett’s proposed voucher/scholarship initiative (Senate Bill #1), and how this legislation would affect contract negotiations.
*House Bills 51, 52, 53, and 54 – the effect on teacher unions and the right to collective bargaining. President Boland stated that these bills are aimed at hurting public education and will affect the District’s funding.
A public meeting, co-sponsored by the SFT and AFT-PA, will be held on Saturday, March 5, 2011 at Scranton High School. Rep. K. Smith, Sen. J. Blake and others will comprise the panel. Representatives from Pittston and Dunmore Federations will also be attending. President Boland would like members to support this forum. All of the proposed bills, listed above, are aimed at hurting public education and will also affect a District’s funding.
President Boland will be testifying before the House Committee on Education, March 31, 2011 to speak against these “voucher/scholarships”.
*issues presented previously by the District’s nursing staff are still of concern
A motion to adjourn was made by M. Foley and seconded by M. Holmes. Meeting adjourned at 4:40 P.M.
A COPE meeting convened at 4:40 P.M. The SFT will put the above mentioned proposed legislation on the SFT’s website.
There will be several openings on the Scranton School Board in the upcoming election.
N. Barrett will run in May, having replaced F. Brazil who passed away earlier this year.
An appointment will be made by the recent vacant Board seat and that person will also run for election in May. The Federation will put forth candidates for the Scranton School Board. Members will be advised at appropriate times about events and the names of those candidates the SFT will endorse.
Motion to adjourn was made by C. Franco and seconded by G. Hulse. Meeting adjourned at 4:45 P.M.
________________________________________________________________________________________
Executive Committee Meeting – March 29, 2011
The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Tuesday, March 29, 2011 at Scranton high School. The meeting was called to order at 3:20 P.M.
Members present: R. Boland, P. Festa, K. Waltz, D. Powell, T.Anderson, M.Loftus,
A. Trapani, M. Doran, M. Byron, M. Foley, A. Geiger, D. Walter, K. Opshinsky,
V. Amico, J. Baldauff, J. Zaleski, J. Telesco, D. Mazurkivich, K. Beckwith, K. Kays
Excused: V. Wojnar
Secretary’s Report
The minutes from the last Executive Committee meeting were distributed to those present. Hearing no additions or corrections, a motion was made by D. Powell and seconded by P. Festa to accept the minutes as read. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
A Treasurer’s Report will be given at a later date.
President’s Report
President Boland welcomed Maria Foley to the Executive Committee who is replacing Marty Wazowicz as an Elementary Representative.
President Boland outlined the agenda for the Special Membership Meeting that was to follow the Executive Committee Meeting. A Powerpoint presentation will be presented to the membership detailing the contract offer made by the Scranton School District to the SFT. President Boland, at a recent School Board meeting, presented a comparison of the cost for the ER&D program and the cost of administrators’ trips to out of state conferences. She pointed out that the ER&D program provided a greater professional development benefit to the District than these trips.
After other discussion, President Boland presented the following resolution to the Committee members.
It is the recommendation of the Scranton Federation of Teachers’ Executive Committee that the members should authorize the Executive Committee to call a strike when and if the Executive Committee deems a strike is necessary to reach successor collective bargaining agreements.
The resolution passed unanimously.
A motion to adjourn was made by J. Telesco and seconded by A. Trapani. Meeting adjourned at 3:45. P.M.
A COPE meeting was convened at 3:45 P.M. President Boland announced that the Special meeting would begin with a COPE Meeting. Marty Wazowicz would address the membership.
COPE meeting adjourned at 3:48 P.M.
_______________________________________________________________________________
Special Membership Meeting – March 29, 2011
A Special Meeting of the Scranton Federation of teachers was held on Tuesday, March 29, 2011 at Scranton High School. The meeting was called to order at 3:55P.M. by President Rosemary Boland. President Boland led those assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance.
President Boland changed the order of business at this time by convening a COPE meeting of the SFT. She introduced Marty Wazowicz, a retired SFT member, who is currently running for a School Board position as a Democratic. He addressed the assembly stating his qualifications for the office and his reasons for seeking this position.
President Boland stated that other candidates for various offices have contacted the SFT for support in the upcoming Primary election. The COPE Committee will be meeting with these candidates in the near future. A COPE letter will be sent to the membership
with the Committee’s recommendations.
A motion to adjourn was made by Gary Mulrine and seconded by many members. COPE meeting adjourned at 4:10 P.M.
The Special Meeting of the SFT was called to order at 4:10 P.M. The topic of the special meeting was a contract negotiations update. President Boland noted that the District’s negotiating team is comprised of Atty. Harry McGrath, Mr. John Vail and Mr. William Gaynor. The SFT negotiating team is comprised of President Rosemary Boland, Pat Festa, Kevin Kays, Matt Loftus, A. Trapani and V. Wojnar. A state mediator is also present for negotiation sessions.
A brief summary of the initial negotiation sessions was given by President Boland.
A Powerpoint was presented to the membership showing the SFT’s and District’s proposals. Members expressed their concerns.
President Boland read the following motion given by the Executive Committee.
It is the unanimous recommendation of the Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers that the members present authorize the executive Committee to call a strike when and if the executive Committee deems a strike is necessary to reach successor collective bargaining agreements.
The motion was made by M. Baransky and seconded by L. Kurpis. President Boland and P. Festa spoke in favor of the motion. A call for acclamation was made by L. Kurpis and seconded by L. Ross. Motion passed
New Business
P. Festa reported that pins were ordered showing SFT support. Also, April 4, 2011 will be a day to wear blue to school to show support for public education.
President Boland stated that the SFT would be planning an action in the near future and to be watching the web page under breaking news. PTA organizations, Superintendent King and other Unions are being contacted to plan a rally.
President Boland will also appear at Marywood on March 31, 2011 at 10:00 A.M. to speak before the Education Committee of the PA Legislature.
A motion to adjourn was made by P. Festa and seconded by M. Baransky. Meeting adjourned at 5:10 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
__________________________________________________________________________
Executive Committee Minutes – Monday, May 2, 2011
The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Monday, May 2, 2011. The meeting was called to order at 3:45 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland.
Members present: R. Boland, K. Waltz, K. Kays, M. Loftus, P. Festa, J.Baldauff,
J. Telesco, A. Geiger, A. Trapani, K. Opshinsky, K. Beckwith, M. Foley, D. Mazurkivich, J. Zaleski, M. Doran
Members excused: D. Powell, T. Anderson, V. Amico, M. Byron, V. Wojnar
Secretary’s Report
Minutes were distributed from the previous Executive Committee Meeting to those present. Hearing no corrections or additions, a motion was made by A. Geiger and seconded by P. Festa to accept the minutes. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays stated that all properly submitted bills have been paid, all accounts have been reconciled and this report is on file at the SFT office.
President’s Report
President Boland gave a report concerning Negotiations. A March 14 session had been cancelled because the School District had not provided information that had been requested by the Federation. A negotiating session was held on April 11, 2011.
A COPE meeting convened at 4:00 P.M. A Meet the Candidate Party will be held on Friday, May 13, 2011 at the Tiki Bar at the Waldorf Park Social Club on East Mountain. Menu will consist of picnic food and some beverages. This evening is free to the membership and will cost $10.00 for guests. A motion was made to set the price of the evening at a maximum cost of $5000.00 This motion was made by J. Zaleski and seconded by A. Geiger. Motion passed. Suggestions were made to raise money for COPE – possibly baskets and 50/50 raffle. Another suggestion was made to distribute sheets for COPE sign-ups starting at $.50 per pay period.
A suggestion was made to investigate the possibility of signs in support of public education. Another suggestion was to sponsor an ad for the radio for $175.00. A motion was made by M. Loftus and seconded by K. Beckwith to spend a maximum of $1500.00 to finance these suggestions.
A motion was made by K. Beckwith and seconded by P. Festa to adjourn. Motion passed. COPE adjourned at 4:35 P.M.
The regular meeting reconvened at 4:35 P.M.
Other Business
Scholarship Report - applications had been received from the 2 High Schools and members of the Committee will be meeting in the upcoming week to award the Scholarships.
A motion was made y P. Festa and seconded by J. Telesco that the SFT sponsor an ad in the programs of the Knight Rhythms for the upcoming school year. The ad will run in each of the three programs as a full page ad. The cost will be $150.00. Motion passed.
A motion was made by P. Festa and seconded by M. Doran that the SFT place patron ads for the high school yearbooks. D. Mazurkivitich at West High and
M. Loftus at Scranton High will get information as to the cost. Motion passed.
A motion was made by M. Doran and seconded by A. Trapani to buy five tickets for the Special Olympics Cocktail Party sponsored by the Scranton School District. Motion passed.
Other issues:
*According to Article 40, building representatives are to receive class lists (teacher grade and enrollments), from the Principal- for the 2011-2012 school year.
* final exams at the intermediate school and whether they are the same for each school
* Nurses’ schedules for next year
* Nurses’ arbitration
A motion to adjourn was made by J. Telesco and seconded by K. Kays.
Meeting adjourned at 5:20P.M.
_______________________________________________________________________________
General Membership Meeting – May 5, 2011
The General Membership meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers took place on
Thursday, May 5, 2011. The meeting was brought to order at 3:50 P.M. by President Rosemary Boland. President Boland led those assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a moment of silence for the Troops serving throughout the world. President Boland also acknowledged the passing of longtime Scranton School District employee Cathy Gruden.
Secretary’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer Kevin Kays read the minutes from the February General Membership Meeting. A motion was made by L. Ross and seconded by M. Holmes to accept the minutes as read.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer Kevin Kays reported that all accounts are reconciled, all properly submitted bills have been paid and the SFT is in good financial position and is on target for current budget projections.
President’s Report
Contract Negotiations Update – President Boland reported that one session had been
held since the Special Meeting of March 29, 2011. The District did agree with financial figures provided by the SFT. The District did point out there was still a $6 million dollar shortfall because of the Governor’s budget. The SFT did request some financial information from the District. Another scheduled negotiating session had been cancelled because of lack of requested documentation.
President Boland reported that the calls and letters to State Representatives and State Senators have aided in the budget situation and to continue this plan of action.
New Business
The following concerns were voiced by the membership:
*the effect of new tax revenue to the District
*the ability of the SFT to have input into what staffing positions are being cut
*questions concerning a salary freeze
*the effect on retirement checks for retirees since there has been no School Board meeting to act on retirements
President Boland also made note of the following:
*there is a surplus in the Pa budget, but the Governor does not want to use it for education or other programs
*there has been no school calendar set for the 2011-2012 school year.
* the SFT needs the proposed teacher schedules and class sizes from all buildings for the 2011-2012 school year
* there are no ER&D classes scheduled for the summer due to lack of professional development money
* no decision has been made on the fate of Audubon School
* no end of year schedule has been published as of yet
A motion to adjourn was made by L. Ross and seconded by N. Cangemi. Motion passed.
Meeting adjourned at 4:25 P.M.
A COPE meeting convened at 4:25 P.M.
The membership was reminded of the Meet the Candidate s Night scheduled for Friday, May 6, 2011 at the Tiki Bar at the Waldorf Park Social Club. This event is free to the membership and $10.00 for guests.
A motion to adjourn was made by M. O’Dea and seconded by N. Cangemi.
Meeting ended at 4:30 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
______________________________________________________________________________
Executive Committee Minutes – Wednesday, June 1, 2011
The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Wednesday, June 1, 2011. The meeting was called to order at 3:50 P.M. by 1st Vice President Matthew Loftus.
Members present: K. Kays, M. Loftus, P. Festa, J.Baldauff,
J. Telesco, A. Geiger, K. Beckwith, D. Mazurkivich, J. Zaleski, V. Amico, T. Anderson, M. Byron, V. Wojnar,
Members excused: R. Boland, D. Powell, A. Trapani, K. Opshinsky, M. Foley, M. Doran, K. Waltz,
Secretary’s Report
Minutes were distributed from the previous Executive Committee Meeting to those present. Hearing no corrections or additions, a motion was made by G. Baldauff and seconded by J. Telesco to accept the minutes. Motion passed. Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays read a letter of resignation from Kathy Waltz. He made a motion to accept Kathy’s resignation. The motion was seconded by J. Telesco. A letter of appreciation will be sent to Kathy for her 41 years of active membership and 6 years as SFT Trustee.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays stated that all properly submitted bills have been paid, all accounts have been reconciled, and this report is on file at the SFT office.
President’s Report
Ist Vice President Loftus reported on the following:
· Negotiations: A May 24 session had been cancelled because the School District has again failed to provide information that had been requested by the Federation and had provided incomplete documents. A negotiating session is scheduled for June 6, 2011.
· Chief Nurse Arbitration: The attorneys have filed their final briefs in this case and the arbitrator will likely render his decision soon.
· New Elementary School Staffing: the personnel office is currently saying that only 2 schools are affected.
Old Business
· J. Zaleski asked about the status of G-1-11. M. Loftus will inform the member who requested this information.
· V. Wojnar asked if the 27 scheduled pay periods (a contract violation) had been corrected. M. Loftus reported that the administration is recommending that the School Board adjust the pay schedule to 26 by removing 8/31/11.
· D. Mazurkivich inquired about the timing of the SSD oral exam for propective professionals and paraprofessionals. The district has not yet made the dates known.
New Business
· V. Wojnar asked how the Executive Committee would communicate with the SFT Membership if we need to strike. We already have received a strike authorization from the Membership. We will communicate in the usual ways –mail, global connect, and sft1147.org.
· A. Geiger asked if we will need to raise membership dues. We will be considering more cost saving measures and address those budgetary concerns after our annual audit in August.
· Members’ concerns about the ER& D program. After SSD Administration told the SFT that there isn’t enough money to fully fund the program, administrators have taken trips to Las Vegas and California (some have taken 2 trips). The administrators’ trips are paid from the same monies from which the ER&D program is funded. We have a signed agreement regarding ER&D.
· We will email the results of the 6/6/11 negotiating session and the Executive Committee schedule for the upcoming year (for review).
A motion to adjourn was made by P. Festa and seconded by D. Mazurkivich
Meeting adjourned at 4:29P.M.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Executive Committee Minutes – Wednesday, August 8, 2011
The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Monday, August 8, 2011. The meeting was called to order at 9:35 A.M. by President Rosemary Boland.
Members present: R. Boland, K. Kays, M. Loftus, P. Festa, J.Baldauff,
J. Telesco, A. Geiger, D. Mazurkivich, J. Zaleski, V. Amico, T. Anderson, V. Wojnar, D. Powell, K. Opshinsky,
Members excused: A. Trapani, M. Foley, M. Doran, K. Beckwith, M. Byron,
Secretary’s Report
Minutes were distributed from the previous Executive Committee Meeting to those present. Hearing no corrections or additions, a motion was made by J. Telesco and seconded by K. Opshinsky to accept the minutes. Motion passed. Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays read a “thank you” card from Rosemary Boland regarding the executive committee members’ donation to St. Jude’s Children Hospital to commemorate Robert Boland’s life.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays stated that the SFT ‘s financial status is in compliance with the budget approved for last fiscal year and that all properly submitted bills have been paid, all accounts have been reconciled, and this report is on file at the SFT office.
The yearly audit of the SFT finances is scheduled for this week.
Donations to the Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition are still needed in support of the 2 teams that represented the SFT at the Strike Out Breast Cancer event recently held at PNC field.
President’s Report
President Boland reported on the following:
· Negotiations: A July 28 session was held and the Scranton School District team once again failed to provide information that had been requested by the Federation. A negotiating session is scheduled for August 10, 2011.
· SSD Board Meeting: All SFT members are encouraged to attend the August 8, 2011 meeting
· Grievances: There has been no response to several grievances that have been placed at the Board level. This will be addresses at tonight’s board meeting.
Old Business
· Chief Nurse Arbitration: The arbitrator rendered a decision in favor of the SSD. This is a costly loss for the SFT.
· SSD Staffing: There is no new information from the SSD regarding hiring of staff to replace the 72 vacancies due to retirements/resignations and the death of Kevin Callahan.
New Business
Issues Discussed:
· Administrator who issued unsatisfactory on an observation did not look at the teacher’s lesson plan.
· The best method for scheduling Global Connect calls to the Membership.
· SSD Special Education lawsuit settlements
· Actual cost of heath care to the SSD
· We will email the results of the 6/6/11 negotiating session and the Executive Committee schedule for the upcoming year (for review).
· 2-year moratorium on Act 48 credits/hours
· 70 new hires will need to be informed
· What is the 1st pay period for the new school year?
A motion to adjourn was made by J. Zaleski and seconded by K. Opshinsky
Meeting adjourned at 11:49A.M.
___________________________________________________________________________________
Executive Committee Meeting- August 22, 2011
The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Monday, August 22, 2011. President Rosemary Boland called the meeting to order at 9:00 A.M.
Members Present: R Boland, M. Loftus, P. Festa, V. Wojnar, K. Kays, T. Anderson, G. Baldauff, D.Mazurkivich, D.Powell, V.Amico, D.Walter, A.Geiger, K.Beckwith, M.Byron, J.Telesco-Loftus, M.Doran, J.Zaleski, M.Foley, A.Trapani, K. Opshinsky
Members Excused: P.McDonough
Secretary’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K.Kays distributed the minutes from the August 8, 2011 meeting to the Committee members present. Hearing no additions or corrections, a motion was made by P.Festa and seconded by A. Geiger to accept the minutes as read. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
Treasurer Kays presented the Balance Sheet as of June 30, 2011. Treasurer Kays presented the Profit and Loss statement dated July 2010 through June 2011 to the Committee members present. These financial reports have been filed in the Treasurer’s Office. Kays reported that an audit has been conducted by AFT. Julie Hofsner spent 3.5 days at the office and conducted a very thorough audit. She reported that “no weaknesses in internal control” were found. The auditor made several minor recommendations to the Treasurer which will be enacted. The auditor concluded that Kays did an “excellent job of maintaining financial records of the SFT.” The audit is filed here in the union office.
President’s Report
President Boland put the Committee in Executive Session to discuss Contract negotiations taking place.
New Business
Issues discussed:
-Status of various Itinerant Teachers
-Mold in school buildings
-Boundary exceptions
-Special Education assignments at Tripp School
A motion was made by D.Powell and seconded by M.Byron that if all goes well with our current Contract talks that the SFT sponsor an End of the Year party in June 2012 at Waldorf Park. Motion passed.
A motion to adjourn was made by J. Telesco Loftus and seconded by J. Zaleski.
Meeting adjourned at 10:30 A.M.
Respectfully Submitted.
____________________________________________________________________________
General Membership Meeting-August 25, 2011
President Rosemary Boland called the General Membership Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers to order at 1:00 P.M. on Friday, August 25, 2011.
President Boland led those assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a moment of silence for members of the Federation that have passed away.
No Secretary’s Report was read.
No Treasurer’s Report was read
President’s Report
President Boland addressed the attendees on the status of contract negotiations between the Federation and the School District. She reiterated the District’s financial offer as well as their proposal’s concerning health care. President Boland reported that at the last meeting of the parties that District Solicitor McGrath stated that he had no authority from the Scranton School Board to move away from the District’s current offer which called for 0% salary increase the first year and increased cost sharing of health care the second year. Additionally the District was still proposing to eliminate the current retirement incentive as well as enact a two years of the suspension the ER&D Porgram due to the Governor’s halting Act 48 hours for two years.
President Boland asked for support for an informational picket the SFT has planned for Saturday, August 27, 2011 at the new Isaac Tripp Elementary School’s ribbon cutting ceremony. She stated that it was imperative that we send a message to the Board and public that we want to have our contracts settled.
Second Vice President Patrick Festa spoke to the membership during the President’s Report portion of the meeting and urged members to recall the not so long ago past when we were crippled by excessive health care costs and use that as motivation to attend Saturday’s informational picket.
President Boland asked members to refrain from doing any additional work during this time unless contractually obligated to do so.
Several SFT members asked questions about whether they should attend the Tripp School picnic if they taught there and whether they should attend SHS Freshman Orientation.
A motion to adjourn was made by L.Kurpis and seconded by many. Motion passed.
Meeting adjournment at 2:25 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted,
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Executive Committee Meeting-September 1, 2011
The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Thursday, September 1, 2011. President Rosemary Boland called the meeting to order at 9:30 A.M.
Members Present: R Boland, M. Loftus, P. Festa, V. Wojnar ,K. Kays, T. Anderson, G. Baldauff, D.Mazurkivich, D.Powell, D.Walter, K.Beckwith, M.Byron, J.Telesco-Loftus, M.Doran, J.Zaleski, M.Foley, A.Trapani, K. Opshinsky
Members Excused: P.McDonough, V.Amico, A.Geiger, M.Foley,
President’s Report
President Boland put the Committee in Executive Session to discuss Contract negotiations.
A motion to adjourn was made by P. Festa and seconded by many.
Meeting adjourned at 10:56 A.M.
Respectfully Submitted.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Executive Committee Meeting- October 5, 2011
The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Wednesday, October 5, 2011. President Rosemary Boland called the meeting to order at 3:48 P.M.
Members Present: R Boland, M. Loftus, V. Wojnar, K. Kays, T. Anderson, G. Baldauff, D. Mazurkivich, D. Powell, A. Geiger, K. Beckwith, M. Byron, J. Telesco-Loftus, M. Doran, J. Zaleski, M. Foley, A. Trapani, K. Opshinsky,
Members Excused: P. McDonough, P. Festa, V. Amico, D. Walter
Secretary’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K.Kays distributed the minutes from the September 1, 2011 meeting to the Committee members present. A corrections was made to the attendees by adding K. Opshinshy, a motion was made by J. Zaleski and seconded by V. Wojnar to accept the minutes with the correction. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
Treasurer Kays presented the Balance Sheet as of August 31, 2011. Treasurer Kays presented the Profit and Loss statement dated July 2010 through August 2011 to the Committee members present. These financial reports have been filed in the Treasurer’s Office. The budget committee will convene in October.
President’s Report
President Boland put the Committee in Executive Session to discuss the Sft’s presentation to the Fact-finder.
Grievances:
-Failure to post jobs
-Class size violations
-Phys/Ed Elementary Teachers transition time
-Inappropriate use of classroom space- gym class in a science classroom
New Business
Issues discussed:
-New sign-off sheets for students’ SDI’s
-Unequal distribution of Special Education students
-Improve relationship with the PTSA
-The use of a computer lab where a teaching position was cut
-Are teachers receiving hours for inservices? Some schools have no sign- in sheets.
-Executive Committee representative from schools should e-mail Mr. Williams to request credit for inservice hours.
-Executive Committee meeting will be held the second Wednesday of every month.
A motion was made by and seconded by many to investigate the cost of videotaping the SSD Board meeting each month. The motion passed unanimously.
A motion to adjourn was made by J. Telesco-Loftus and seconded by a majority.
Meeting adjourned at 5:58 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Executive Committee Meeting- November 2, 2011
The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Wednesday, November 2, 2011. President Rosemary Boland called the meeting to order at 3:47 P.M.
Members Present: R Boland, M. Loftus, K. Kays, T. Anderson, G. Baldauff, D. Powell, A. Geiger, K. Beckwith, M. Byron, J. Telesco, M. Doran, J. Zaleski, M. Foley, A. Trapani, D. Walter, V. Amico, P. McDonough, P. Festa
Members Excused: D. Mazurkivich, V. Wojnar, K. Opshinsky
Secretary’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K.Kays distributed the minutes from the September 1, 2011 meeting to the Committee members present. A corrections was made to the attendees by adding , a motion was made by D. Powell, and seconded by J. Telesco to accept the minutes with a correction. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
Treasurer Kays presented the Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2011. Treasurer Kays presented the Profit and Loss statement dated July 2010 through September 2011 to the Committee members present. These financial reports have been filed in the Treasurer’s Office. The budget committee will convene in October.
President’s Report
-President Boland put the Committee in Executive Session to discuss the Fact-finder’s Report. The Executive Committee unanimously passed a motion to recommend that the SFT Membership should reject Fact-finder’s report.
-3 ULP’s have been filed
Paraprofessional work (elimination of positions)
SSD’s denial of requested information for negotiations
ER&D classes on hold
-1 ULP to be filed on an Administrator’s use of “Hitler” comparison
-Grievances
Additional IEP writing work
Special Education teachers doing Fast Forward
New Business
Issues discussed:
-Discipline weak at the secondary level
-The salary of the Compliance Officer
-Teachers’ evaluation form panel
-Prayers for Barbara McNulty and her family
A motion to adjourn was made by D. Powell and seconded by J. Zaleski.
Meeting adjourned at 5:04 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted.
_____________________________________________________________________________
General Membership Meeting – November 3, 2011
President Rosemary Boland called the General Membership Meeting of the Scranton Federation of Teachers to order at 3:47P.M.
President Boland led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance.
President Boland requested a change in the order of business to address the recent Fact-finder’s report. Jennifer Zaleski made the motion to change the order of business. Louise Kurpis seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
President Boland instructed the SFT Membership that the information from the Fact-finder’s report should not be released to the general public until 10 days its release.
1st Vice-President Matt Loftus reviewed the SFT’s presentation to Diane S. Mulligan (Fact-finder). The presentation will be placed on the SFT website next Wednesday.
Loftus also review SFT Attorney Gelman’s analysis of the report.
Joanne Firestone asked if the Fact-finder’s report is in anyway binding.
President Boland responded that if it is accepted by both sides it would be the basis for forming a new pact.
Lynn Harding asked if the SFT knows whether or not the direction for negotiations given to Harry McGrath was unanimously given by the SSD Directors.
The SFT does not know.
Dawn Hafner asked if the Fact-finder’s report provided rationale for the increase in employees’ health care contribution.
Mulligan cited contributions made by teachers from school districts from counties other than Lackawanna.
A motion to reject the Fact-finder’s report was made by Lisa Ross and seconded by Chris Evans. Discussion followed.
Marci Barnansky asked what the benefit of rejection is.
Rich Bresser commented that the SSD will have a “heads-up” if we reject it now.
The SSD will interpret the report the way they want, whether we accept or reject the report.
The motion passed unanimously.
President’s Report
Unfair Labor Practice Complaints filed:
Paraprofessionals’ positions eliminated –work given to Professionals
Refusal of SSD to provide requested documents—denial of their existence
Refusal of formerly agreed upon ER&D classes
Arbitration filed:
Inservice and Curriculum Council
Grievances
Class Size (won)
Phys/Ed exchange time/ poor schedule
Gym classes in Science classrooms
Posting and Rotation – choral club
New Business
Marci Barnansky noted that as a result of the loss of Guidance Counselor positions the student/counselor ratio has gone from 250-1 to 400-1.
President Boland noted that Mr. King stated that the state recommended limit is 325-1. The SFT will look into this apparent violation.
Louise Kurpis made a motion to adjourn. John Boone seconded the motion.
Adjournment—5:11PM
Cope Meeting
President Boland called a COPE meeting to order at 5:11PM
The COPE Committee recommends Kathleen McGuigan and Jason Shrive for election as School Directors.
Get out to vote.
Listen for an update on action to be taken on election day!
Louise Kurpis made a motion to adjourn. The motion was seconded by many.
Adjournment---5:16PM
Respectfully submitted,
_______________________________________________________________________________
Executive Committee Meeting- December 7, 2011
The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Wednesday, December 7, 2011. President Rosemary Boland called the meeting to order at 3:47 P.M.
Members Present: R Boland, M. Loftus, T. Anderson, G. Baldauff, D. Powell, A. Geiger, K. Beckwith, M. Byron, V. Wojnar, M. Doran, J. Zaleski, M. Foley, D. Mazurkivich, A. Trapani, D. Walter, V. Amico, P. Festa, K. Kays
Members Excused: J. Telesco, K. Opshinsky, P. McDonough
Secretary’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K.Kays distributed the minutes from the October 2, 2011 meeting to the Committee members present. A grammatical error was found by G. Baldauff. A motion was made by P. Festa and seconded by V. Wojnar to accept the minutes with the correction. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer Kays presented the Balance Sheet as of October 31, 2011. Kays presented the Profit and Loss statement dated July 2010 through October 2011 to the Committee members present. These financial reports have been filed in the Treasurer’s Office.
President’s Report
-3 ULP’s have been filed and the dates for the hearings are as follows:
Paraprofessional work (elimination of positions) 02/09/12
SSD’s denial of requested information for negotiations 01/06/12
ER&D classes on hold 01/06/12
-SSD has complied with the SFT’s RTKL request regarding the Supervisor of Special
Education Compliance
-The SSD’s temporary Solicitor, Mr. Minora did acknowledge the scheduled session for contract negotiations. On the morning of the scheduled talks Minora sent the message “Meeting canceled”.
-President Boland reiterated that the SFT is ready to negotiate
New Business
Issues discussed:
- When will new teachers be trained in CLM
- Thanksgiving Day football
- Willard and Bancroft Teachers’ involvement School-wide Positive Behavior Support teams---Teachers should be paid if work is done at a time other than their duty period.
- Certification of Peer Mediators
- The SFT cannot and will not defend teachers who are willingly negligent in being at their assigned position throughout the school day.
- School Improvement Teams should be paid for their time if it is before or after regular hours or during their prep period.
-All teachers must keep a role book.
A motion to adjourn was made by V. Wojnar and seconded by J. Zaleski.
Meeting adjourned at 5:45 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted.
______________________________________________________________________________________________
Executive Committee Meeting-January 11, 2012
The Executive Committee of the Scranton Federation of Teachers met on Wednesday, January 11, 2012. President Rosemary Boland called the meeting to order at 3:43 P.M.
Members Present: R Boland, M. Loftus, T. Anderson, G. Baldauff, D. Powell, A. Geiger, K. Beckwith, V. Wojnar, M. Doran, J. Zaleski, M. Foley, D. Mazurkivich, A. Trapani, D. Walter, V. Amico, P. Festa, K. Kays, J. Telesco, K. Opshinsky, F. Regan
Members Excused: M. Byron, P. McDonough
Secretary’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer K. Kays distributed the minutes from the December 7, 2011 meeting to the Committee members present. A motion was made by M. Loftus and seconded by T. Anderson to accept the minutes. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report
Secretary/Treasurer Kays presented the Balance Sheet as of November 30, 2011. Kays presented the Profit and Loss statement dated July 2010 through November 2011 to the Committee members present. These financial reports have been filed in the Treasurer’s Office.
President’s Report
-Stay aware of state and federal cuts to education and human services.
ULP’s
-The ULP hearing regarding bad faith bargaining (SSD’s denial of requested
information for negotiations) and ER&D (refusal to allow the scheduling of classes) has
been cancelled by the SSD to allow the new solicitor time to prepare. The funding of
e-school grade book training came from monies which could have been used for ER&D
classes. The state has suggested rescheduling the hearing 1/24/12 or 1/30/12.
-The SSD Board of Directors has directed the Administration to settle the ULP filed on
Paraprofessional work (elimination of positions).
-No date yet for the arbitration concerning the implementation of programs that were not
processed through in-service and curriculum councils.
-President Boland reiterated that the SFT is ready to negotiate.
Grievances
- G13 – Just Cause – Member suspended without pay.
- G14 – School Day – Administrators told teachers to work during lunch
Special Education
- When teachers disagree with any part of an IEP they should write a letter stating
the reasons for their dissension. They may still sign stating they were present for the
IEP meeting.
President Boland then declared and Executive Session regarding contract negotiations.
D. Mazurkivich made a motion directing President Boland to contact the SFT lawyer to
set up a negotiating session within the next 2 weeks. The motion was seconded by D.
Powell. The motion passed unanimously.
The SFT has petitioned AFTPA for the funding of a Public Relations/Education Campaign.
New Business
Issues discussed:
-AFT Convention 2012 in Detroit
The SFT may consider sending fewer delegates to save on expenses if
necessary.
-AFTPA Convention 2013 will be in Scranton.
A motion to adjourn was made by V. Wojnar and seconded by J. Zaleski.
Meeting adjourned at 5:45 P.M.
President Boland called an SFT COPE meeting to order at 5:45PM.
M. Loftus made a motion to contribute $300 to Ken Smith’s campaign. J. Telesco seconded the motion. The motion passed.
M. Loftus made a motion to contribute $500 to John Blake’s campaign. T. Andersen seconded the motion. The motion passed.
G. Baldauff made a motion to increase the amount’s donated to Smith and Blake by $150 each. Ann Geiger seconded the motion. The motion failed.
A motion to adjourn was made by D. Mazurkivich and seconded by P. Festa
Meeting adjourned at 5:58 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted.
