Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/138130
Have you been verbally abused by an administrator or experienced bad behavior by a colleague? Ever been denied professional opportunities because some "higher up" didn't like you? If so, you're not alone. You may be the target of workplace bullying, or at the least, some bad behavior. Bullying of teachers by administrators is nothing new, says Jamye Merritt, CTA trainer. Increased occurrences of bullying — and more stressed-out educators and classified employees — prompted CTA to respond with trainings to help members protect themselves and improve their work environment. Two popular CTA workshops are "Bullying! It Doesn't Just Happen to Students" and "Bullies, Bosses and Bad Behaviors." Panic over the need to raise test scores while programs and positions are being cut has put administrators on edge, resulting in a pressure-cooker environment. Merritt believes competition for declining resources influences educators to form cliques or side with administrators to secure favor and keep their jobs. Years ago, when I was chapter president, I was bullied by an administrator. He came into my classroom three times a day, looking through my desk and my papers. It created a negative environment for me. I called a meeting with my principal and CTA primary contact staff. My principal threatened me with a letter of reprimand and said my communication with parents was "nonexistent." I shared e-mails and records of phone calls with parents to show otherwise. The principal withdrew his complaint. I decided not to go forward with a grievance. CHRIS AGUILAR, Sanders Elementary School teacher, Sylvan Education Association June/July 2013 www.cta.org Educator 06 June 2013 v2.0.indd 11 11 6/14/13 9:29 PM