SEA Survey to Inform the Bargain
Dear Members,
On December 17, the Seattle School Board adopted a phased reopening of in-person services for prek, kindergarten, 1st grade, and special education intensive service pathways (SEL, moderate intensive, focused, distinct, developmental preschool, medically fragile). SPS leadership called us to the bargaining table the following day. SEA has a duty to bargain in good faith with the District and will do that through our bargaining team.
The District announced their intent to start in-person services as soon as March 1, 2021. The March 1 return date is aspirational and was determined by the District as the earliest possible based on various factors to operationalize getting schools ready, but it is not guaranteed. Our MOU clearly states that we will need to reach an agreement before any changes can be implemented. SEA’s survey is intended to collect data that will help to inform your bargaining team.
Although currently the plan is to transition prek-1st grade and special education intensive service pathways, it is possible that the School Board could direct the District to phase in more students for in-person services in the future. For that reason, please respond to SEA’s survey even if you are not currently working in a preK-1st grade or a special education intensive service pathway.
Survey will remain open until January 19, but please complete as soon as possible.
In solidarity,
Jennifer Matter, SEA President
Uti Hawkins, SEA Vice President
