Dear ,

Collective Bargaining Agreement for Nurses

Nurses covered by the GFT-GMHA Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) will be able to vote to ratify their CBA on:

Thursday, September 28, 2023, at the GMHA Lobby from 9 AM to 2:30 PM

Friday, September 29, 2023 at the GMHA SNU Barrigada from 9 AM to 2:30 PM

Details will be available at the ratification table. Voting is for union members only. You may also sign up to become a member at the ratification site.

Collective Bargaining for Teachers

We are pleased to inform you that a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) has been successfully negotiated and signed for GDOE Teachers. Here is a concise summary of some of the key provisions within the agreement:

1.    Instructional Time Make-Up Days (2.A.3): The Department of Education (DOE) will amend its standard operating procedures to include make-up days for instructional time lost due to emergencies, such as water outages, power outages, or emergency declarations, within the school calendar.

2.    Grading Deadlines (2.J.3): Grades will be due at the close of business, four work days after the mid-semester/semester ends. Special deadlines will be set for senior grades before the end of semester two.

3.    Accreditation Commitment (2.M.1 NEW): At the beginning of each school year, an agreement will be established between the accreditation coordinator and administrators to work on deliverables related to accreditation.

4.    Weingarten Rights (4.G NEW, 4.G.1 NEW): Employees have the right to request union representation in meetings that could lead to discipline, termination, or changes in personal working conditions.

5.    Professional Development (4.B.5): Teachers will be provided with designated professional development days to collaborate with content area teachers at specific locations.

6.    Music Classroom Equipment (6.A.1): Each secondary music classroom will have at least one properly functioning piano/keyboard and other working instruments.

7.    Nurse Zoom Meeting Coverage (6.E.5): Nurses participating in virtual meetings will have coverage for their office to fully engage in the meetings.

8.    School Counselor Duties (6.F.1, 6.F.4.e, 6.F.4.f): School counselor duties will align with the latest American School Counselors Association (ASCA) National Model.

Additionally, please note that certain language changes have been made from "quarter" to "semester" or "mid-semester" in various sections of the agreement.

We encourage all union members to review the full CBA for a comprehensive understanding of its terms and implications. This agreement represents a significant achievement in our ongoing efforts to advocate for the rights and interests of our members.

If you have any questions or require further clarification on any aspect of the CBA, please feel free to reach out to your union representatives.

In solidarity,

GFT

Leave Sharing Requests

1. Edward Quichocho – GWA, member since 2018

2. Charlene Lobaton – GDOE, member since 2009

Several of our fellow union members are currently experiencing challenging health issues that require them to take extended sick leave. In these trying times, we have an opportunity to show our solidarity and make a real difference in their lives by donating some of our own sick leave days.

Here's how you can help:

1. Donate Your Unused Sick Leave: If you have accrued more sick leave than you need, consider donating a portion to your colleagues in need. Your generosity can provide them with the peace of mind and financial stability they require during their recovery.
2. Every Day Counts: Even a single day of donated sick leave can make a significant impact. It can help cover essential medical expenses, support their families, and alleviate some of the stress they are currently facing.
3. Together, We Are Stronger: Our union has always stood for unity and support, and this is a tangible way to demonstrate our commitment to one another. By working together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our fellow members.

To donate your sick leave, please contact Thelma at GFT thelma@gftunion.com. She will guide you through the process and ensure your contribution goes to those who need it most.

Remember, our union's strength lies in its members, and this is an opportunity for us to rally together and support those facing adversity. Your contribution, no matter how small, can have a lasting impact on the lives of our fellow members.

Thank you for considering this important request. Your support means the world to us and reinforces the values that make our union special.