I hope this email finds you all safe and well With information flying at us with such a rapid pace, it’s been quite the task to keep truly up to date. I have been in constant contact with the district, our CTA Primary Contact Staff, John Vigrass, and NEA-Jurupa Bargaining Chair, George Monge, as new information is provided.
With that being said, I’d like to thank all of you who have reached out with kind messages and thoughtful questions. In order to help relieve some of the anxiety out there here are some of the most frequently asked:
1. Will we be paid? YES! Ca Ed Code 41422 does not require maintenance of educational programs for LEAs (Districts) to receive continued state funding.
2. What about Extra Compensation assignments? Most extra compensation was already approved at the March 9th school board meeting. The district has intends of fulfilling all of its Extra Comp obligations. If you have not yet signed a blue time card, you will be able to do that retroactively. This also includes Sixth Period assignments.
3. Will we have to make up days missed? NO! According to CDE, when the State Superintendent authorizes credit for days that school was closed, districts receive credit for the instructional days/minutes lost due to the emergency closure.
4. Will we have to provide distance learning? Short answer, YES. However, there are still a multitude of variables that need to be considered in the process including such items as: access to WiFi/internet capabilities, addressing the needs of English Language Learners and Students with Disabilities, assessments, technical issues, time constraints, etc. The Association will be working with the District through this process to ensure equity in both teaching and learning conditions.
5. Will there be state testing? Hopefully, no. The governor stated in his press conference on Tuesday that the state will be applying for a waiver to suspend testing for this year.
In an effort to not inundate you with emails, we have started a new NEA-Jurupa Facebook group. The intent is to provide additional information, resources, and light-hearted humor. You can follow it here: NEA-Jurupa. Below are a couple of resources from CTA above that include links to additional documents and resources, as well as a self-care guide.
At this time, in accordance with CDC, State, and County Health Guidelines all public meetings of more than 10 people will be cancelled. This includes any upcoming Association meetings and trainings, as well as any conferences. If you have registered and paid for any conferences through CTA, your fees will be reimbursed in a timely manner.
Again, thank you so much for your patience and understanding. Please take care of yourselves and your loved ones, that is the most important thing we can do right now. You are greatly appreciated.