January President's Message

Dear Members,

I have been told lots of positives about being back to in-person instruction.  I am also hearing about the hardships of being an educator during this time.  Our profession has profoundly changed.  People leaving the profession in the midst of a teacher shortage. Staffing and Sub shortages add another layer of adversity.  Hundreds of staff and students quaritneeded. Classrooms are half full.  Educators and other Essential Workers facing the loss of personal sick leave when they are quarantined because of mandates and regulations.  The constant changes regarding CDC guidelines only make things more confusing.  

One fact that this pandemic has brought to the forefront is the role that public schools play in the societal infrastructure of our economy.  It has also shown the importance of public schools in the social and emotional health of our students.   We have all heard negative rhetoric about educators and sometimes it feels as if we are not valued as professionals.  With all of these challenges, members, you have persevered.  VTA says thank you once again for your service to our students and community.  

COVID 19 Supplemental Sick Leave
Good News, Governor Newsom has reinstated COVID - 19 Supplemental Sick Leave (SPSL). The link above provides information about SPSL.

Know Your Rights
Article 28 of your contract is about your rights regarding a Grievance.  The linked document The Grievance Process, by Megan Bishop (VTA Vice President and Grievance Chair), explains what a grievance is and the process.  Please know your rights if your administration is not following the contract.  
 
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
Currently the Department of Education is rehauling the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) so that more educators can qualify for student loan forgiveness.  L For more information visit the site below to find out if you qualify.
Navigate Your Student Debt | NEA
NEA Student Debt Navigator powered by Savi | NEA Member Benefits (neamb.com)

VTA Scholarship Fund
Click here for the Scholarships for your Dependants newsletter for information on both High School and Dependant scholarships that are available.
Question of the Month
This month the site that has the most responses will win a pizza party!  
To be entered, please answer the following question in the google form here.

What is your favorite movie line?