May 11th, 2010

Negotiations Update
It has been some time since I have last communicated with you about negotiations. It has definitely been a long process with many delays and complications due to our current economic climate. Let me re-assure you that our goal has remained constant as we have continued our efforts to achieve equity for all Classified employees. We have reached resolve on many issues and have been successful at narrowing down our proposals that specifically deal with wages and benefits.  This is a normal course of progression in any negotiation process.

 I know that many of you have expressed your concern and frustration with the District’s choices that have ultimately affected many of our members. I have attempted to answer most of these questions below. Please feel free to contact any CSEA representative if you have any additional questions. I will be sending out more information as we head into the final stages of our negotiations meetings.

 What issues are outstanding with negotiations?

As many of you know, your Negotiations Team has focused on the many equity issues unresolved in our current contract. I have outlined our remaining focus areas as we continue to meet with the District and work towards an agreement. 

• Ten year healthcare retiree benefits made permanent beyond the current contract pilot program of 2013, (This would be equivalent to all other employee groups current benefit amount).
• Employer paid Dental Plan, (All other employee groups have this currently paid for them).
• Employer paid life insurance benefit with family option, (equivalent to all other employee groups benefit amount currently being received).
• The total equivalent amount of 1% of the Classified salary to be used for the benefits and wages by Classified employees, (the above benefits are inclusive of this specific proposal item).
• A portion of the monetary benefit from above to be applied to our part time members.

 What is happening with layoffs?

Last week the District initiated the layoff process and staff reductions affecting thirty one employees. While most affected members have been notified, it is possible that there are a very small number of members who could still be impacted through bumping outcomes. There will also be some additional positions filled due to vacancy and retirements that will help reduce the number of members actually leaving the District. If you have questions about your position, please contact any CSEA representative.

 Did the layoff procedure change?

Yes, the District and CSEA disagreed about the interpretation of our current layoff language specific to bumping. We are scheduled for mediation this week to attempt to resolve our differences and preserve a process that rewards seniority and geographic options for those senior members receiving a layoff notice. We will inform the membership as to the outcome and if an agreement is reached. Please keep in mind, the layoff bumping process is not perfect, it is an attempt to reward seniority and establish a process given the unfortunate situation.

 Did the layoff recall procedure change?

Yes, we were successful at creating a recall process that we feel is an equitable process and will ensure the rights of all members, existing and returning. Please see the attached newly adopted Commission Rules below.

 Why did a majority of the Teachers receive another $1000.00 EL bonus for two more years during a time when the District is laying off staff and trying to reduce the budget 3.6 million dollars?

I call this the half million dollar question. The District will spend $500,000 to apply these EL Certificate reward/incentives for a third and fourth straight year. This is an issue that has been very frustrating and hard for our members and others to understand. While I would never begrudge our hard working Certificated staff for successfully negotiating a great benefit, I do share in the concern of what choices the District has made and in the perception of inequity and low morale that has been created as a result. While I understand the question still stands, I am not the appropriate person best to answer it. I have asked the District to answer this question in an open letter to Terry King. Please see the attached response below.

 What can I do to help affect positive change or equitable outcomes?

Some members don’t realize the value of even minimal participation at informational gatherings or taking part in the voting process that will affect their working conditions. Many of our members wait until we have reached a point of serious contention before stepping up to show their support. I understand that a lot of us have our own challenges and conflicts that interfere with participating in such events. With this in mind, it truly takes a group effort to be successful and accomplish our common goals. I strongly encourage you to attend important memberships meetings and bring along two additional members who may need your support to attend. This will truly make a difference!!!

Ron Tackett
Chapter President
CSEA San Dieguito