Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/1380872
Bargaining Roundup Compiled by Julian Peeples B A K E R S F I E L D : Multiple agreements Bakersfield Elementary Teachers Association successfully bargained a series of agreements during the COVID-19 pandemic, protecting educators and students. Per the most recent agreement, all BETA mem- bers were offered full doses of the vaccine and wait time for optimal effectiveness before returning to in-person instruction. All members were provided $1,000 in COVID merit/expense pay for increased workload and expenses incurred. Educators were able to select their work location, on-site or remote. Safety protocols and distancing language are being maintained, even with shifts in state and Kern County guidance. S T O C K T O N : Return agreement ratified Stockton Teachers Association negotiated and ratified a return to in-person instruction agreement that details the format for the hybrid school schedule, provides for more professional development, and implements additional safety procedures throughout the district. The agreement captures increased pay rates for daily and long-term substitutes, while providing the remaining unit members a site-return stipend of approximately $1,900. STA negotiated an additional $3,400 stipend for all members as compensation for distance-learn- ing-related work that resulted from the pandemic. The agreement also secures the opportunity for STA mem- bers to keep their own children who are Stockton Unified students in class with them and have their non-Stockton Uni- fied students attend supervised day camps at various sites in the district. B E V E R LY H I L L S : Safety compliance plan Beverly Hills Education Association negotiated a return to full in-person instruction for TK-12 in April, with TK-5 specialist instruction and TK-5 physical education instruction remaining virtual. As part of the agreement, the district agreed to rescind all 10 cer- tificated layoff notices that were issued in March. All members will also receive a stipend. The district created a COVID ombudsman position at each site, which includes one union member and one administrator. The position was created to quickly deal with compliance issues at each site. If a site cannot solve an issue, a district position is in place to then rectify it. 35 J U N E / J U L Y 2 0 21 A