NTU Update - March 20, 2020

Colleagues, 

I hope all of you are feeling well given the circumstances. We see that most of you have already established a work from home system and routine, that’s positive. I want you to know how very proud of you we all are here at the NTU. As the state’s largest school district all eyes are upon us to see how well we are handling the situation and so far so good. We’re simply the best!!! 

There are little glitches here and there, and members are still receiving support and representation. The union building is lightly staffed and, for the most part, we are answering questions and resolving issues via text, email and social messaging. 

We are in constant communication with our local, county and state health and education leaders. As the situation is changing daily, it is reasonable for us to say that the schools will remain closed indefinitely for now. Prepare for that mentally and logistically.

Here’s a list of things we know:

NBOE schools are closed, buildings are not.  If you left anything behind last Friday, if you need personal or academic items in your classroom, if you need to go in to make copies, etc. Feel free to go in Mpn—Fri during regular school hours. It is a good idea to touch base with your immediate supervisor before going in.

Lesson Plans - The Superintendent is fairly certain that we have enough online and hard lesson plan packets to last us to Spring Break.  He is also very much convinced that we will be using the assistance from an outside vendor in preparing universal lesson plans for the longer term, should we need them. So, start thinking about future lesson plan preparation, especially for those students who do not fall under the General Ed category. But we may be spared having to write lesson plans with everything else that is on our plate right now.

Evaluations - The Commissioner of Education and his legal department are looking at state evaluation requirements (especially those requirements that are used to monitor non-tenured teachers working towards tenure) and those who may be on a Corrective Action Plan. We have specifically asked that no additional stress be added during this time by observations and evaluations, if that can be avoided.

Grading and attendance are to continue using the usual methods; PowerSchool, etc. Changes or adjustments may​ can come from your Administrator. 

Per Diems/Substitutes - if your location has not put you to work in one capacity or another either assisting at the location or with distance learning, assume you are on unemployment and begin filing an application to collect it.   

Paychecks - If you have any issues with your paycheck, please use the below Employee Inquiry Form link and send a copy to payrollcs@nps.k12.nj.us and make sure you cc: mmaIillaro@newarkteachersunion.com.