| Teaching Assistant Contract Update |
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With our new contract there are specific changes for our TAs. These are the concerns that have come to the attention of the Building Reps. 1. TAs are an intricate part of the educational process. They are equal partners in all we do. They are in our classrooms to accommodate student learning, not teacher convenience. Therefore, they are not to leave the instruction of the students to make copies. In an emergency, or occasionally, they may need to make copies to support instruction. This should be an equal responsibility of the teacher and TA. 2. A TA that covers a class for approximately 40 minutes, alone, and that is solely responsible for delivering instruction will be paid a differential. Teachers should be asked to cover classes first because students' IEPs require TA assistance in the classroom. If an administrator uses a TA to cover a class and relieves him/her at the 35-39 minute mark to avoid payment, it is inappropriate and unethical. It pits member against member and causes a disrespectful school environment. If this is happening, please let your building reps know. TAs receive sub pay if they cover a class for the day. 3. TAs are not to be used for clerical work. This is against the TA contract and violates the contract of our CSEA brothers and sisters. 4. TAs should have access to their students' IEPs to adequately provide instruction. Please assist all TAs in having access to review their students' IEPs. 5. The NRTA is actively working to review equitable hours for all TAs. The relationship between the TAs and the teachers requires mutual respect. We are two parts of one professional unit. We have specific educational qualifications and degrees of compensation but we are all skilled professionals working towards the success of our students. Please see your building reps with any questions you may have. In Solidarity, Robin Brennan |