Dear Administrators,

September always seems to sneak up on us despite the calendar. I hope you had some restful days. Maria Edgeworth wrote, “If we take care of the moments, the years will take care of themselves.” It is for this very reason I am addressing our hopes for this new school year.

I have spoken to many of you this summer while you have been diligently getting things ready for the upcoming year in your buildings. We have many changes in administrative staff, teaching staff and contract language this year. The NRTA would like to congratulate all administrative personnel who have taken on a challenge of a new position and offer you the invitation of our support.

One great thing about September is that we all feel the energized sense of a new start. With this positive energy intact, I would like to promote two thoughts. One, this is a new year with new challenges and the past is the past. Secondly, the union can be an invaluable help and the cornerstone of collaboration in your building.

The NRTA building reps and leadership are now more organized, trained and experienced in their duties. They have been in your buildings for years. They know the pitfalls and how to get your staff on board with change. When we work together, before decisions are put into place, we can save time, maintain positive professional relationships, discern contractual violations or scheduling conflicts, fulfill NCLB and State mandates and ensure our students get what they need and more.

The problems I have encountered most often are due to quick changes without consultation, misinterpretations of what is being asked by Central Office or a personal desire by an administrator to circumvent the contract for what they passionately see as an improvement for their building. You can have what you feel passionate about. There may be concessions but, if we work together, I guarantee a positive building climate, support for your initiatives and unlimited progress for our students.

Neither you, nor we, wish to return to an issue and grieve it to force compliance to the contract. The Superintendents of Instruction and Dr. Monahan have been and continue to be supportive of maintaining our contracts and professional relationships. We all want to do a superb job, get our scores up, guide students out of violence and see every child succeed. Communication is key. What I am proposing is the art of balance. If we can debate ideas openly with all factions of leadership involved we will all win. When we do this every moment the year will take care of itself. Feel free to call, speak to your reps or visit the office at any time.

I look forward to facing the challenges in the year ahead in a spirit of cooperation and consultation.

Sincerely,

Robin Brennan

Cc. Dr. Brian Monahan; Ileana Eckert; Robert Katulak; NRTA Building Representatives