A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed Regarding The Impacts and Effects for Phase 1 of Reopening for the 2020-2021 School Year. The parties [WEA and WJUSD] have agreed that certificated bargaining unit members will have the flexibility to choose whether to work from their regularly assigned workplaces or to work remotely while delivering virtual instruction. Other important agreements contained in the MOU address Health & Safety protocols for those staff who choose to work from district sites, parameters for the development and delivery of instruction with students during virtual learning, and expectations pertaining to communication and unit member work day.
Digest of the August 14th, 2020 MOU
Health and Safety: Covers basic health and safety protocols for when members choose to physically be on their worksites.
Instruction: Outlines logistics of workplace locations (notice item 2.2 highlighting teacher flexibility to work remotely from home) and instructional expectations.
Health Screening and Notification: Includes daily symptom screening for employees and visitors.
Virtual Learning: Describes expectations for how students will receive instruction, supports, and services during Phase 1.
Leaves: References Families First Coronavirus Relief Act.
Grievance: All items in this MOU qualify for negotiated grievances the same as our regular contract.
Meet and Confer and Advance Notice Requirement: Establishes communication expectations between WJUSD and WEA as the pandemic continues.
The workplace flexibility aspect of this MOU represents a huge win for our local union and shows us what we can achieve when we advocate positions strongly felt by a large majority of our members, who are willing to organize and go public with their support of that position, and to ultimately influence our employer to do the right thing. In this moment, we are filled with gratitude for the outpouring of in-person and virtual support shown by our fellow teachers, educators, community members, families and friends. Thank you for showing up, sending emails, and spreading the message of support that was needed to protect the health and safety of our students, our teachers, and our community. Thank you, WEA bargaining team, for your diligent work at the table to achieve such an outcome for our members.