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AM Brew - October 31, 2022
Here's What's Brewing Today
Monday, October 31, 2022
Thank you to all who testified last Tuesday on teacher turnover! Now, more than ever we need you to – “Use Your Outside Voices” – to ensure the Council hears our demands!
Although we couldn’t capture everyone’s testimony, we captured more than 30 testimonies which are available WTU’s YouTube channel. I encourage you to watch my testimony where I discuss the results of a poll the WTU conducted on teacher retention where we report that more than 79% of teachers are not satisfied with current workplace conditions and 69% say they are more likely to leave in the next three years.
If you haven’t already, I encourage you to SIGN our petition to Mayor Bowser. Please share the petition, ask your family and friends! We plan to deliver this petition BEFORE the November Election and hope to have thousands of signatures. In addition, we hope you’ll call, email and tweet to the Mayor, demanding that she return to the bargaining table. And, of course, we hope you’ll join us at upcoming Contract Events.
Jacqueline Pogue Lyons, President
Washington Teachers' Union
Teachers Deserve a Fair Contract
Thanks to all members who participated in the contract rally at the Anacostia Metro. Your presence and voice at these rallies matter! We hope that you can join us in upcoming contract campaign events.
Contract Campaign action –
- Nov 3rd – Rally 4 pm at DCPS Central Office. 1200 1st Street, NE - https://mobilize.us/s/1aV3Tc
- Nov 17th – Day of Action - https://mobilize.us/s/Ht5jWD
- Town Hall – TBD
TELL THE MAYOR … Why we need a fair contract now
Sign and share our petition.
Contact your Building Rep or Field Representative for more information about on-going contract negotiations. PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT ANY ACTIVITY YOU PARTICIPATE IN TAKES PLACE OUTSIDE YOUR TOUR OF DUTY. DCPS is watching!
An apple can’t pay the rent
Between Covid and culture war bullshit, America’s teachers are burned out—but DC Public School teachers rallied at the Anacostia Metro stop to change that. DCPS teachers haven’t had a contract for three years, and many feel underpaid and overworked—and some haven’t been receiving their paychecks at all—in the midst of a teacher shortage that’s really not a shortage at all.
While teachers wait on Mayor Bowser’s response, they’ve got a petition residents can sign to help get a fair contract.
WTU in the news
- District tries to find ways to retain teachers, as teachers’ union waits for new contract to be finalized
- DC teacher’s union holds rally asking for new contract | DC News Now
- 'Time to end arbitration': DC teachers union holds rally for new contract (msn.com)
- Survey shows low morale, frustration among D.C. teachers - The Washington Post
- https://www.telemundowashingtondc.com/noticias/local/maestros-del-distito-piden-mejoras-salariales/2158550/
- Allyson Criner Brown and Emily Roderer: What DCPS schools need to help students thrive — and to attract and keep teachers – TheDCLine.org
- School Librarians Fight the Clock on 'Students' Right to Read Amendment Act' - The Washington Informer
2022 National Association of State Boards of Education, "Policy Leader of the Year Award."
CONTRACT CORNER
Article 23.3 in our CBA states you MUST sign in and out every day. The timesheet is what the timekeeper uses to input the hours you worked.
23.3 Signing In and Out
23.3.1 Teachers shall, immediately upon their arrival, record in the main office of their school the time of their arrival, and shall report to their classroom or place duty at least thirty-five (35) minutes prior to the start of the official school day for students.
23.3.2 Teachers shall record in the main office of their School the time of their departure at the end of the school day.
23.3.3 Itinerant Teachers shall record the time of their arrival and departure in the main office of each of their assigned Schools.
23.3.4 Teachers shall not be required to use time clocks.
Vote
Early voting has started. Please support for the WTU endorsed candidates.
City Council:
- At-Large: Elissa Silverman
- At-Large: Karim Marshall
- Ward 1: Brianne Nadeau
- Ward 3: Matthew Frumin
- Ward 5: Zachary Parker
- Ward 6: Charles Allen
DC State Board of Education:
- Ward 1: Ben Williams
- Ward 3: Michael Sriqui
- Ward 5: Robert Henderson
- Ward 6: Joshua Wiley
Read more here. And watch for opportunities to help Get Out The Vote for WTU endorsed candidates!
AM Brew News and Notices will be archived at https://www.wtulocal6.net/AMBrew.
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AM Brew - October 24, 2022
Here's What's Brewing Today
Monday, October 24, 2022
Teachers Deserve a Fair Contract
ICYMI:
In August, the Public Employee Relations Board (PERB) determined that the WTU and DCPS were at impasse in contract negotiations and referred the case to mediation. I am disappointed to inform you that mediation with DCPS was not successful. We will now move to interest arbitration.
Although this is disheartening news, we will continue to press forward. The WTU will never compromise your interests or those of the students we serve. Teachers deserve a fair contract that will protect your rights and ensure you receive fair wages and benefits as inflation and the costs of living in our nation’s capital continue to rise.
I hope you will continue to stand with the WTU as we demand a Fair Contract. Please watch for updates on upcoming contract events in the weekly Morning Brew.
We will continue to keep you informed. If you have any questions, please reach to your Field Representatives.
Upcoming Events…
Rally at Anacostia Metro on Thursday Oct 27, 7 am.
If you are not able to attend the rally, please wear red as a sign of solidarity, take pictures, and tweet them or send to your Field Rep.
TELL THE MAYOR … Why we need a fair contract now
Contact your Building Rep or Field Representative for more information.
PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT ANY ACTIVITY YOU PARTICIPATE IN TAKES PLACE OUTSIDE YOUR TOUR OF DUTY. DCPS is watching!
Members in the news …
Librarians want a permanent spot in DC Public Schools
Tell the Council to move forward the “Student Right to Read Amendment Act of 2021.”
Tweet to @ChmnMendelson asking him to hold a vote on the legislation.
Sign their petition: https://www.saveschoollibrarians.org/dcschoollibrarian
Council Hearing on Teacher Turnover
The DC Council wants to hear your Teacher Voice! – October 25 at 1PM
We hope that we’ll see many of you speaking to the Council tomorrow. But, if you can’t make it (we know you’re all teaching), we hope you’ll at least consider tweeting to @ChmnMendelson letting him know that Teachers need a #FairContract and that the Council must take action to improve working conditions and pay for DC educators!
Are you a WTU Member?
Check your pay stub on Peoplesoft to see if you are a member of the WTU.
Member benefits
include access to 1000s of lesson plans at Share My Lesson
AFT Student Debt clinics
Deadline to apply for student loan forgiveness is October 31st
AFT will continue to host a student debt clinic webinar Thursday evenings. Register at https://cvent.me/17XZka Webinar will include information about how to enroll in the free AFT Summer student loan member benefit. Additional information can be found at www.forgivemystudentdebt.org – this website contains all of the information on how to access PSLF in an easily digestible and understandable format.
STUDENT DEBT CLINIC RESOURCE GUIDE
After attending a Student Debt Clinic, we want to make sure you’ve got all the tools and information you need to take the next steps to start reducing how much you pay every month and get on a path towards a debt-free future! See attached for more information.
Pay
Please contact your field rep if you are having any problems getting paid.
#Vote
Early voting has started. Please support for the WTU endorsed candidates.
City Council
- At-Large: Elissa Silverman
- At-Large: Karim Marshall
- Ward 1: Brianne Nadeau
- Ward 3: Matthew Frumin
- Ward 5: Zachary Parker
- Ward 6: Charles Allen
DC State Board of Education
- Ward 1: Ben Williams
- Ward 3: Michael Sriqui
- Ward 5: Robert Henderson
- Ward 6: Joshua Wiley
Read more here. And watch for opportunities to help Get Out The Vote for WTU endorsed candidates!
#RedforEd
Please wear red each Friday and post photos to social media. Please tag us @WTUTeacher
AM Brew News and Notices will be archived at https://www.wtulocal6.net/AMBrew.
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AM Brew - October 17, 2022
Here's What's Brewing Today
Tuesday, October 17, 2022
Teachers Deserve a Fair Contract
Many thanks to the teachers, parents and public who came out to support our need for a new Teachers Contract at the Teachers Voice Festival on Saturday. We hope you have a moment to view this short clip from our supporters!
And check out this great coverage of teachers advocating for a new contract as well:
- WTU's March for DC Teachers Contract!
- DC Deal MS Walkout
- ‘It's Difficult': DC Teachers Rally to Mark 3 Years Without Contract, Pay Raise
Save the Date:
- Thursday, October 27, 2022 at 7:00 am - March for the Washington D.C. Teachers Contract at the Anacostia Metro Station
TELL THE MAYOR … Why we need a fair contract now
Sign and share our petition.
Contact your Building Rep or Field Representative for more information. PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT ANY ACTIVITY YOU PARTICIPATE IN TAKES PLACE OUTSIDE YOUR TOUR OF DUTY. DCPS is watching!
Student Debt Clinic
Debt clinic at Ballou High School on October 20th – Click here for more details and to register!
Virtual Student Debt Clinic
AFT will continue to host a student debt clinic webinar Thursday evenings. Register at https://cvent.me/17XZka Webinar will include information about how to enroll in the free AFT Summer student loan member benefit. Additional information can be found at www.forgivemystudentdebt.org – this website contains all of the information on how to access PSLF in an easily digestible and understandable format.
STUDENT DEBT CLINIC RESOURCE GUIDE
After attending a Student Debt Clinic, we want to make sure you’ve got all the tools and information you need to take the next steps to start reducing how much you pay every month and get on a path towards a debt-free future! See attached for more information.
#RedforEd
Please wear red each Friday and post photos to social media. Please tag us @WTUTeacher
Member Emails
The AM Brew is distributed as a benefit to members of the WTU. In the coming weeks, we’ll be updating our database removing non-members from the distribution for the AM Brew, as well as other important Member –Only emails.
To ensure that you’re not inadvertently removed from the distribution list, please update your member information by clicking here.
AM Brew News and Notices will be archived at https://www.wtulocal6.net/AMBrew.
Read more
AM Brew - October 11, 2022
Here's What's Brewing Today
Tuesday, October 11, 2022
Representative Assembly Meeting – Tuesday, Oct 11 at 4:30PM
All members are invited to attend the representative assembly meetings. However, only building reps and delegates may participate and vote at the meetings.
Passcode: 864128
Teachers Deserve a Fair Contract
Upcoming Events:
Oct 11, 7 am at Tenleytown Metro – See flyer
Oct 15, 10:30-2pm – Teacher Voice Festival at the African-American Civil War Memorial (U St Metro)
WTU will have a table and campaign flyers at the African American Civil War Memorial Plaza. Register to volunteer
TELL THE MAYOR … Why we need a fair contract now.
Sign and share our petition.
Contact your Building Rep or Field Representative for more information. PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT ANY ACTIVITY YOU PARTICIPATE IN TAKES PLACE OUTSIDE YOUR TOUR OF DUTY. DCPS is watching!
WTU in the news
- WUSA - 'I feel like this should be an emergency' | DC school teacher frustrated by broken HVAC systems, lights
- Maestros de DC denuncian retraso de un mes en el pago de salarios
-
Can DCPS Change its Toxic Work Environment?
Student Debt Clinic
Debt clinic at Ballou High School on October 20th – Click here for more details and to register!
Virtual Student Debt Clinic
AFT will continue to host a student debt clinic webinar Thursday evenings. Register at https://cvent.me/17XZka Webinar will include information about how to enroll in the free AFT Summer student loan member benefit. Additional information can be found at www.forgivemystudentdebt.org – this website contains all of the information on how to access PSLF in an easily digestible and understandable format.
STUDENT DEBT CLINIC RESOURCE GUIDE
After attending a Student Debt Clinic, we want to make sure you’ve got all the tools and information you need to take the next steps to start reducing how much you pay every month and get on a path towards a debt-free future! See attached for more information.
Congressional Black Caucus’ 51st Annual Legislative Conference (ALC)
As part of AFT’s Professional Development series, the WTU team participated in conversations on critical issues currently facing our community and how we can collectively advance the Black agenda. We watched the documentary currently airing on Netflix entitled “The Who We Are Project,” which challenges the dominant narrative of our nation’s founding, demonstrating how slavery’s legacy has led to persistent and abiding racial inequality. The attached documentary overview offered all who attended the opportunity to process what we had watched privately and make meaning from it.
Following the film, the AFT hosted a panel discussion featuring Michael Smith, CEO of AmeriCorps; Kean College President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D. and Lezli Baskervielle, J.D., president of the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education to discuss building a pipeline to boost the number of Black teachers across the country.
Click here for a short video, capturing the highlights of what was discussed. Captions to the video were added for the hearing-impaired. Alternatively, a transcript is available for reading here.
#RedforEd
Please wear red each Friday and post photos to social media. Please tag us @WTUTeacher
Welcome to the 2022-2023 School Year.
The AM Brew is distributed as a benefit to members of the WTU. In the coming weeks, we’ll be updating our database removing non-members from the distribution for the AM Brew, as well as other important Member –Only emails.
To ensure that you’re not inadvertently removed from the distribution list, please update your member information by clicking here.
AM Brew News and Notices will be archived at https://www.wtulocal6.net/AMBrew.
Read more
AM Brew - October 3, 2022
Here's What's Brewing Today
Monday, October 3, 2022
Teachers Deserve a Fair Contract
Upcoming Events:
Oct 11, 7 am at Tenleytown Metro – See flyer
Oct 15, 10:30-2pm – Teacher Voice Festival
WTU will have a table and campaign flyers at the African American Civil War Memorial Plaza
Register to volunteer
Contact your Building Rep or Field Representative for more information. PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT ANY ACTIVITY YOU PARTICIPATE IN TAKES PLACE OUTSIDE YOUR TOUR OF DUTY. DCPS is watching!
Student Debt Clinic
Debt clinic at Ballou High School on October 20th – Click here for more details.
Virtual Student Debt Clinic
AFT will continue to host a student debt clinic webinar Thursday evenings. Register at https://cvent.me/17XZka Webinar will include information about how to enroll in the free AFT Summer student loan member benefit. Additional information can be found at www.forgivemystudentdebt.org – this website contains all of the information on how to access PSLF in an easily digestible and understandable format.
STUDENT DEBT CLINIC RESOURCE GUIDE
After attending a Student Debt Clinic, we want to make sure you’ve got all the tools and information you need to take the next steps to start reducing how much you pay every month and get on a path towards a debt-free future! See attached for more information.
FoodPrints
WTU staff partnered with parents, teachers, and local community in support of Watkins Elementary School’s FoodPrints program on Friday, September 30th. The program aims to integrate hands-on learning about healthy, nutritious eating into DC elementary schools. As you can see from the short video, we learned quite a bit from our young tutors thanks to their amazing teachers!
DCPS Strategic Planning
DCPS is currently hosting a series of listening sessions for communities, students, and DCPS staff to develop DCPS’ new 5-year strategic plan. DCPS hired Give Better Group to facilitate this process. Give Better Group is interviewing government officials and decision makers as part of this work. The founders’ bios are on their website (additionally, co-founder Jessica Rauch worked at DCPS under then-Chancellor Kaya Henderson during the first planning process). We encourage teachers to participate and share with their communities.
- DCPS strategic planning process for the next 5 years: https://dcpsstrong.com/strategic-plan/
- Community engagement sessions: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/dcps-strategic-plan-engagement-events-1114269
- Existing Capital Commitment Plan for 2017-2022: https://dcps.dc.gov/capitalcommitment
- Give Better Group: https://www.givebettergroup.com/
#RedforEd
Please wear red each Friday and post photos to social media. Please tag us @WTUTeacher
Update your member email
The AM Brew is distributed as a benefit to members of the WTU. In the coming weeks, we’ll be updating our database removing non-members from the distribution for the AM Brew, as well as other important Member –Only emails.
To ensure that you’re not inadvertently removed from the distribution list, please update your member information by clicking here.
AM Brew News and Notices will be archived at https://www.wtulocal6.net/AMBrew.
Read more
AM Brew - September 25, 2022
Here's What's Brewing Today
Monday, September 26, 2022
Teachers Deserve a Fair Contract
Join us on October 1 at the East End Market in Ward 7 to get out and explain that Teachers do not have a contract to the public. Click here for details and to sign-up.
A big shout-out to those who attended last Saturday’s H-Street Festival and agreed to be interviewed. Below please find a podcast representing the voices of many Union members. For the hearing impaired, we’ve a transcript available here. Thanks, again, for your participation last week and we hope to see you next Saturday, October 1!
WTU Podcast – Contract Campaign Outreach
Stay tuned for other campaign events. Contact your Building Rep or Field Representative for more information. PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT ANY ACTIVITY YOU PARTICIPATE IN TAKES PLACE OUTSIDE YOUR TOUR OF DUTY. DCPS is watching!
WTU - In the News
DC Public School teachers report issues getting paid (fox5dc.com)
Student Debt Clinic
The WTU will host only 1 in person debt clinic on October 20 at Ballou Stay High School. Click here to download a flyer with additional details.
Virtual Student Debt Clinic
AFT will continue to host a student debt clinic webinar Thursday evenings. Register at https://cvent.me/17XZka Webinar will include information about how to enroll in the free AFT Summer student loan member benefit. Additional information can be found at www.forgivemystudentdebt.org – this website contains all of the information on how to access PSLF in an easily digestible and understandable format.
STUDENT DEBT CLINIC RESOURCE GUIDE
After attending a Student Debt Clinic, we want to make sure you’ve got all the tools and information you need to take the next steps to start reducing how much you pay every month and get on a path towards a debt-free future! See attached for more information.
Member Survey -- Check your spam folder if you did not receive a survey
The WTU is conducting a survey to gather member input on their concerns and contract priorities. The survey will only be sent to personal email addresses. The survey will NOT be sent to a DCPS email. Each member will receive a unique link. We encourage everyone to participate. Please compete this form to make sure we have your personal email.
Paid Family Leave
The DC Government Paid Leave Enhancement Amendment Act (B24-615) was approved unanimously on its first Council vote at the Legislative Meeting earlier this week. The second vote will be Oct. 4, then it will go to the Mayor for signature, and then Congress before becoming law.
This will eventually bring paid leave for DC Government employees up to 12 weeks for parental, caregiving, or medical leave. Right now there is 8 weeks of parental and family care leave. The Committee was able to fund 2 weeks of personal medical leave starting in FY23 (more leave will require additional funding in future). The 2 weeks of medical leave will be available starting in January 2023, but if employees must take qualifying medical leave starting Oct. 1, 2022, and they have to use other leave (like sick time or annual leave), they can have that leave restored; or they can get retroactive leave if their time was unpaid. DCHR will be implementing this and will have more information available as January approaches.
#RedforEd
Please wear red each Friday and post photos to social media. Please tag us @WTUTeacher
Updating Member Emails
The AM Brew is distributed as a benefit to members of the WTU. In the coming weeks, we’ll be updating our database removing non-members from the distribution for the AM Brew, as well as other important Member –Only emails.
To ensure that you’re not inadvertently removed from the distribution list, please update your member information by clicking here.
AM Brew News and Notices will be archived at https://www.wtulocal6.net/AMBrew.
Read more
AM Brew - September 19, 2022
Here's What's Brewing Today
Monday, September 19, 2022
Teachers Deserve a Fair Contract
A HUGE Thank You to all members who attended the contract campaign events this past weekend Eliot-Hine and H St Festival. The public is very willing to help us – we have to get out and explain the situation to them. Click here to learn more see a short video from the event.
Stay tuned for other campaign events.
WTU in the News
- DC teachers union to urge public to push Bowser administration for a new contract
- DC school administrators to receive pay increase under new agreement with city
- District reaches deal with union representing principals
#RedforEd
Please wear red each Friday and post photos to social media. Please tag us @WTUTeacher
WTU Endorsements
Last week, the WTU announced its endorsements for the 2022 November Elections.
City Council
- At-Large: Elissa Silverman
- At-Large: Karim Marshall
- Ward 1: Brianne Nadeau
- Ward 3: Matthew Frumin
- Ward 5: Zachary Parker
- Ward 6: Charles Allen
DC State Board of Education
- Ward 1: Ben Williams
- Ward 3: Michael Sriqui
- Ward 5: Robert Henderson
- Ward 6: Joshua Wiley
Read more here. And watch for opportunities to get out and support our candidates!
Masks
DCPS continues to provide masks. All schools continue to order masks through the established system (QuickBase). The Operations POC at each school is responsible for placing those orders. Any questions can be sent to the SSO Specialist for the school and they can ensure the teacher gets connected to the right person at the school to request more masks.
Paychecks
If you were not paid last week, please check Peoplesoft today to see if your check dated Sept 6 & 23 has posted. Call your field rep if there are any problems.
Facility Concerns SY 22-23
Over the past two years, the WTU has met regularly to discuss facility issues with DCPS. Yet, many schools continue to have health and safety concerns. We ask that you let the WTU know of any health or safety concerns in your building by completing this brief form.
Welcome to the 2022-2023 School Year.
The AM Brew is distributed as a benefit to members of the WTU. In the coming weeks, we’ll be updating our database removing non-members from the distribution for the AM Brew, as well as other important Member –Only emails.
To ensure that you’re not inadvertently removed from the distribution list, please update your member information by clicking here.
Student Debt Clinics
The WTU and AFT will host student debt clinics.
September 29 and October 20
In a 90-minute session, AFT Student Debt Clinics provide information on how to enroll in income-driven student loan repayment programs and help in enrolling in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Registration links will be available soon!
Virtual Student Debt Clinic
AFT will continue to host a student debt clinic webinar Thursday evenings. Register at https://cvent.me/17XZka Webinar will include information about how to enroll in the free AFT Summer student loan member benefit. Additional information can be found at www.forgivemystudentdebt.org – this website contains all of the information on how to access PSLF in an easily digestible and understandable format.
STUDENT DEBT CLINIC RESOURCE GUIDE
After attending a Student Debt Clinic, we want to make sure you’ve got all the tools and information you need to take the next steps to start reducing how much you pay every month and get on a path towards a debt-free future! See attached for more information.
AM Brew News and Notices will be archived at https://www.wtulocal6.net/AMBrew.
Read more
AM Brew - September 12, 2022
Here's What's Brewing Today
Monday, September 12, 2022
General Membership Meeting
September 13 @ 4:30 PM
Join via Zoom
Meeting ID: 939 669 4583
Passcode: 148566
Join President Pogue Lyons and the Executive Board to hear updates from the Union about upcoming programs and activities!
Click here for a timeline of the WTU/DCPS Contract Negotiations.
Committee on Political Education
At the WTU General Membership Meeting the WTU Committee on Political Education will present a motion to the members for their vote on who the WTU should endorse in the upcoming DC General Election:
The WTU Committee on Political Education (COPE) moves that the WTU endorse the following candidates in the 2022 General Election alongside our winning candidates from the DC Democratic Primary:
DC State Board of Education:
Ward 1: Ben Williams
Ward 3: Michael Sriqui
Ward 5: Robert Henderson
Ward 6: Joshua Wiley
DC Council At-Large:
Elissa Silverman
Karim Marshall
Update your contact information
The AM Brew is distributed as a benefit to members of the WTU. In the coming weeks, we’ll be updating our database removing non-members from the distribution for the AM Brew, as well as other important Member –Only emails.
To ensure that you’re not inadvertently removed from the distribution list, please update your member information by clicking here.
If you are removed, please contact Valerie Ashley at [email protected] to update your information and be re-added to the WTU mailing lists.
#RedforEd
Please wear red each Friday and post photos to social media. Please tag us @WTUTeacher
Teachers Deserve a Fair Contract
Support the WTU at H Street Festival
Sign up to pass out handbills at the H St Festival on Saturday, September 17, 2022. We’ll be distributing flyers and talking to residents, urging them to call on Mayor Bowser to agree to a new contract.
Facility Concerns SY 22-23
Over the past two years, the WTU has met regularly to discuss facility issues with DCPS. Yet, many schools continue to have health and safety concerns. We ask that you let the WTU know of any health or safety concerns in your building by completing this brief form.
FMLA and LOA Claims
Please contact your WTU Field Representative if you are experiencing delays or you have questions regarding the processing of your FMLA and LOA claims with DCPS.
Student Debt Clinics
The WTU and AFT will host student debt clinics on September 29 and October 20
In a 90-minute session, AFT Student Debt Clinics provide information on how to enroll in income-driven student loan repayment programs and help in enrolling in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Registration links will be available soon!
Virtual Student Debt Clinic
AFT will continue to host a student debt clinic webinar Thursday evenings. Register at https://cvent.me/17XZka Webinar will include information about how to enroll in the free AFT Summer student loan member benefit. Additional information can be found at www.forgivemystudentdebt.org – this website contains all of the information on how to access PSLF in an easily digestible and understandable format.
STUDENT DEBT CLINIC RESOURCE GUIDE
After attending a Student Debt Clinic, we want to make sure you’ve got all the tools and information you need to take the next steps to start reducing how much you pay every month and get on a path towards a debt-free future! See attached for more information.
Monkeypox
Vaccine information can be found here: Monkeypox | doh (dc.gov)
Monkeypox – Monkeypox Data | doh (dc.gov)
AM Brew News and Notices will be archived at https://www.wtulocal6.net/AMBrew.
Read more
Fall 2022 - Professional Development
Fall 2022 Professional Development Courses are Now OPEN
Download the full list of fall courses here.
Interested in new tips for how to integrate technology into the classroom? Join WTU Instructor Julian King in Best Practices of Integrating Technology to Enhance Student Engagement & Assessment as he shares how to create meaningful learning activities using technology.
Want to dive into the psychology and education of the exceptional student? Enroll in Dr. John Taylor's class on the Psychology and Education of Exceptional as he will give you practical tips on how to apply the psychological development of exceptional student to concrete classroom strategies.
Learn how to promote social emotional learning in your own life so you can better assist students? If so, check out Dr. Persephone Brown's class or SEL for Adults!
And many more exciting opportunities to earn your PLUs.
Explore the Fall 2022 courses here.
AM Brew - September 6, 2022
Here's What's Brewing Today
Tuesday, September 6, 2022
#RedforEd
Please wear red each Friday and post photos to social media. Please tag the WTU on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram
WTU Members from Kimball ES.
WTU Members in the News
Washington Post - Prince George’s, Montgomery, D.C. schools begin a new year
Washington Post - Navigating the wilderness, avoiding predators urban and rural
Facility Concerns SY 22-23
Over the past two years, the WTU has met regularly to discuss facility issues with DCPS. Yet, many schools continue to have health and safety concerns. We ask that you let the WTU know of any health or safety concerns in your building by completing this brief form.
FMLA and LOA Claims
Please contact your WTU Field Representative if you are experiencing delays or you have questions regarding the processing of your FMLA and LOA claims with DCPS.
SPED concerns
Teachers, and parents can contact the DC Office of the Ombudsman for Public Education with any concerns they have with special education. All communication is confidential.
Learn more about the Ombudsman’s services by clicking here and here.
Summer Pay – Regular Pay
Please visit Peoplesoft today and look for your pending check. There are often problems when DCPS transitions from summer pay to regular pay. Contact your Field Representative if there is any discrepancy.
3 Report incidents of Hate / Bias
DCPS is committed to being a whole-child, antiracist, equity-centered school district. This guide tells how to report allegations of hate/bias, discrimination, or harassment, and how allegations are addressed by the district. Learn more here.
Student Debt Clinic
The WTU and AFT will host additional student debt clinics. The dates and times will be announced in next week’s AM Brew.
Virtual Student Debt Clinic
AFT will continue to host a student debt clinic webinar Thursday evenings. Register at https://cvent.me/17XZka Webinar will include information about how to enroll in the free AFT Summer student loan member benefit. Additional information can be found at www.forgivemystudentdebt.org – this website contains all of the information on how to access PSLF in an easily digestible and understandable format.
STUDENT DEBT CLINIC RESOURCE GUIDE
After attending a Student Debt Clinic, we want to make sure you’ve got all the tools and information you need to take the next steps to start reducing how much you pay every month and get on a path towards a debt-free future! See attached for more information.
WTU Grants
AM Brew News and Notices will be archived at https://www.wtulocal6.net/AMBrew.
Read more
AM Brew - August 29, 2022
Here's What's Brewing Today
Monday, August 29, 2022
Welcome to the 2022-2023 School Year!
Every new school year brings great joy and happiness, not only for our students but for you, our teachers. As you open our classroom doors today to welcome your students, I hope that you will remember the optimism that made you an educator. And, I know that you will bring that joy and optimism to your students today and every day this school year.
As we start a new year, I'm reminded of the power of optimism. From COVID-19 to politician's censoring classroom discussion and curriculum, we have faced a lot together and as individuals over the past several years. Through it all, I have seen educators go above and beyond and remain optimistic despite all that has been thrown at our profession. It is because of the work that I've seen - opening your homes to students through virtual lessons, fighting to ensure our school librarians are funded, and winning protections for your health and that of your students - that I am optimistic about the future.
Today, as we start the new school year, I'm asking you asking you to get more involved with our Union to help us win a new - and fair - contract that will ensure that you are able to be effective and grow as educators and, most importantly, meet the needs of our students. I also ask that you welcome your new colleagues, whether they are new to your building or new to the profession, and encourage them to join the WTU if they are not already members. And, if new educators or other colleagues aren't receiving the AM Brew, please ask that they send their personal email to [email protected] asking to subscribe to the AM Brew and other important updates from our Union.
We can and will continue to overcome the challenges facing us. Your team at the WTU looks forward to serving you this year! Reach out to your Building Rep or Field Representative should you have any questions or concerns about working conditions or your Union.
Together, we can and will make this the best school year yet!
In solidarity,
Jacqueline Pogue Lyons, President
Washington Teachers' Union
WTU members in the news
WTOP - Support, career growth: Educators talk about what could solve teacher shortages
Axios Washington - DCPS scrambles to prep buildings and students for another school year
Enroll Now – Sick Leave and Maternity Leave Banks
LAST CHANCE FOR VETERAN TEACHERS TO ENROLL / WITHDRAWL.
The WTU has extended the Open Enrollment Season for the Sick Leave and Maternity Leave Banks through September 2, but after that veteran teachers will not be able to join for the 2022-2023 school year. New Hires will be able to join during the entirety of the 2022-2023 school year. Also, if any members want to opt out of either bank they have until 9/2/2022 to do so.
The 8 hour donation required to join either bank will be taken out of your account on or after October 1, 2022, the beginning of the fiscal year.
Click here to submit your information to enroll: https://forms.gle/3fP8XwSiU8kYXjiW9
If you are choosing to opt-out of either bank, please do so by September 2, by sending a formal request to Charmaine Wilks at [email protected]. If you miss the Open Enrollment dates, you will not be able to enroll in "the Banks" until the next Open Seasons in June 2023 and August 2023. This is strictly for the use of the Sick Leave and Maternity/Paternity Leave Banks and not the Dental/Vision enrollment.
Laptops
Every teacher in our bargaining unit should receive a laptop. If you have not received your laptop yet, please contact your principal. Supply card were distributed last week! Please contact your business manager if you did not receive your supply card. If you have any questions or difficulties, please contact your Field Representative.
Back-To-School Events
Thanks to everyone who volunteered at Back-To-School events this weekend in Wards 5 & 6. The WTU will be attending future events and we’d like you to volunteer. If you’d like WTU support at your Back-To-School events, please contact Regina Bell at [email protected].
AM Brew News and Notices will be archived at https://www.wtulocal6.net/AMBrew.
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AM Brew - August 22, 2022
Here's What's Brewing Today
Monday, August 22, 2022
Welcome to the 2022-2023 School Year! We have one week before we begin welcoming our students to our schools! As with every year, these last few days are filled with excitement. I look forward to giving you a preview of the upcoming year and answering your questions on Wednesday, August 24 at 6pm.
Jacqueline Pogue Lyons, President
Washington Teachers' Union
WTU Town Hall Q & A with President Pogue Lyons
Aug 24, 2022 6:00 PM
https://aft.zoom.us/j/92624505093?pwd=RDh3VVFHckswUklwdjdCSzNLUnpZdz09
Passcode: 027091
WTU Settlement - School Counselors
As previously announced, WTU has reached a settlement with DCPS to settle the group grievance filed by WTU on behalf of School Counselors who worked additional days without pay from 2011 to 2016. WTU and DCPS have sent communications about the settlement to each person identified by DCPS as a counselor during that period. If you have not received a communication but believe the settlement should includeyou, please contact Maria Granone, Executive Director at [email protected] or call her at (202) 517-0729.
IMPACT Grievances
Please contact your Field Representative if you would like to file an IMPACT grievance. The deadline is September 1, 2022
Enroll Now – Sick Leave and Maternity Leave Banks
The WTU has extended the Open Enrollment Season for the Sick Leave and Maternity Leave Banks through September 2, but after that veteran teachers will not be able to join for the 2022-2023 school year. New Hires will be able to join during the entirety of the 2022-2023 school year. Also, if any members want to opt out of either bank they have until 9/2/2022 to do so.
The 8 hour donation required to join either bank will be taken out of your account on or after October 1, 2022, the beginning of the fiscal year.
Click here to submit your information to enroll: https://forms.gle/3fP8XwSiU8kYXjiW9
If you are choosing to opt-out of either bank, please do so by September 2, by sending a formal request to Charmaine Wilks at [email protected]. If you miss the Open Enrollment dates, you will not be able to enroll in "the Banks" until the next Open Seasons in June 2023 and August 2023. This is strictly for the use of the Sick Leave and Maternity/Paternity Leave Banks and not the Dental/Vision enrollment.
Monkey Pox Update
D.C. public health officials expanded eligibility for the monkey pox vaccine Friday and loosened the residency requirement as a strategy to destigmatize the virus, even as the city sees record numbers of infections. Learn more: https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2022/08/12/dc-monkeypox-vaccine-eligibility/
Additional Resources:
- https://www.k12dive.com/news/5-best-practices-as-schools-brace-for-monkeypox/628870/
- https://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/monkeypox/
- https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/specific-settings/congregate.html
AM Brew News and Notices will be archived at https://www.wtulocal6.net/AMBrew.
Read more