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BOSTON TEACHERS UNION, LOCAL 66, AFT Non-Profit Org. Unsung Heroes of the 180 Mount Vernon Street U.S. Postage Boston, Massachusetts 02125 PAID Boston Public Schools 2 Boston, MA Permit No. 52088 First Annual Professional Learning Conference 5

BTU Honors the 2014 Building Reps of the Year 12 Volume XLVI, Number 11 • July-August, 2014 Great Students Start With Great Teachers! Bost BT Un Union Teacher The Award-Winning Newspaper of the Boston Teachers Union, AFT Local 66, AFL-CIO President’s Corner by Richard Stutman BT U The Good, the Bad, and the appy Summer. teachers with ‘better fit’ new hires. Consider developed by the BTU-BPS head of Profes- H At the end of a school year, it is this: The teachers who have not been placed sional Learning, Paul Tritter. Thank you, appropriate to take a look back at where we to date are each experienced Boston educa- Paul. The union that helped provide this effort stand on a few key issues, where we’re going tors, trained and vetted by BPS administra- is the same union that is trying to help the 196 on others, what we’ve accomplished, and tors. Many have been recently recruited by teachers in the preceding paragraph. The role what we hope to improve. sophisticated by BPS specialists over the last of the union is multi-fold, and we want to be The school year ended with much in lim- decade. All have been given BPS-approved successful in both types of activities. Richard Stutman bo, and as we write this in early July, limbo PD, and each has undergone a strenuous and Another event also was held under the is a defining word for the following: PTPP, robust performance evaluation process. They radar at the end of the school year in coor- BTU President Madison Park, Mildred Ave., Commonwealth are the recipient of the best that the BPS can dination with the AFTMA’s Dan Murphy: charter expansion, and the Ed Reform legisla- theoretically offer... yet they find themselves, The BTU welcomed educators from vari- where we will work in September, another tion. By the time you will have read this piece, well, unwanted. And unplaced after a 4+ ous AFT local unions from Connecticut and large group of folks at Madison Park enter we may long for the days of ‘limbo.’ Or we month process. Rhode Island to our office to partake in the summer without knowing much at all about may not. So we ask ourselves, how can a system AFT’s Educational Research and Develop- the direction the recently-intervened-with As the school year ended, we had 196 that recruited, hired, trained, guided, and ment program. The event took place over Madison Park will head in. The BTU wants permanent teachers without an assignment evaluated people put the same people in three days and was a wonderful opportunity this school very much to succeed. With the for September. While the number of unplaced limbo while so-called better replacements are for BTU teacher/leaders to participate in the recent of school structure (Tradi- teachers is sure to drop prior to the PTPP recruited so they can be then trained, guided best of what the AFT has to offer. (The AFT, tional school to Innovation to Intervention) (what was formerly the excess pool process), and evaluated? … the American Federation of Teachers, is our there is much unknown about the direction we will surely enter the PTPP process, now national organization, and we are represented the school will be heading in. The work that scheduled for July 21 through July 24, with a n the Good News Department, the school statewide by the AFT-Mass or AFTMA. BTU needs to be done at Madison is matched by good 150 or so unplaced teachers. Iyear ended with a terrific Day of Profes- members belong to both ‘parent’ organiza- the strong desire of the people there for the One key point needs to be made: The high sional Learning at the BTU with more than tions as a result of their membership in the school to reach its potential. At Mildred Ave., number of unplaced staff is unacceptable. 130 educators in attendance. We are quite BTU.) an Intervention begun last winter has not yet What’s galling is that this is a purposeful proud of the activity held with the effort of Meanwhile as most of us, excluding the been completed, and BTU staff are left with attempt of the district to replace experienced many of our members, and organized and 196 above, head off to summer knowing uncertainty as well as a strong will to help turn the school around.

ow, on the legislative front… One of the BTU Joins the Boycott of Staples at AFT Convention Nlarger unknowns is the degree, if any, to which Commonwealth charters will expand in the legislative season. Slowly, without an end in sight, Commonwealth charters are becoming their own mini-school system. Charter operators MATCH, EXCEL, City on a Hill and Edward Brooke have extended their franchise operations to multiple sites. MATCH has three sites (two in JP, one near BU), EXCEL has three sites (two in EB, one in Chelsea), City on a Hill has two sites ( both in Roxbury) and The Edward Brooke has three sites (Roslindale, EB, and Mattapan). Add to that nine other single Commonwealth Charter campuses and we have a burgeoning network of mini-charter school systems. While charters have developed a sophisti- cated and persistent ad campaign touting their willingness to enroll, educate and retain a less selective student enrollment, the fact remains that their schools, on average, educate one third the percentage of English Language learners as Boston and three-fourths the percentage of children with special needs as our own BPS do. What’s more, to the extent Commonwealth charters enroll students with Special Needs, charters enroll those students who are on the less challenging, least expen- sive end of the spectrum.

See more photos and story of AFT Convention in Los Angeles on pages 6-9. continued on page 2 Commentary by Michael J. Maguire BT U Unsung Heroes of the BPS his year there were no Educator of the Bus Drivers the custodians step in like surrogate TYear awards. In its place I offer my own literally to clean up the mess. list of unsung heroes. SY 13-14 was a very tough year to be This year, I salute all custodians who a BPS school bus driver. Veolia certainly maintain our schools so that we can spend our Cafeteria Workers will not win any “management of the year” time on educational matters. awards. The drivers, however, should be This past school year, the BPS proudly praised for their long-suffering patience with Michael J. Maguire announced that all BPS students would receive a company that evidently ignores their con- Secretaries Boston Union Teacher free breakfast and lunch at school. A grant tract provisions and protections. I learned long ago that the secretaries are Co-Editor from the US Department of Agriculture paid Despite horrendous working conditions the ones who run the schools. Truly, these for the program. Many students were pleased and in spite of political pressure and bad press, individuals sit on the front line of parent inter- form without complaint in the sweltering and the program was lauded in the local media. many a dedicated worker reports to the yard actions. Whether by answering the phones or conditions that envelop our schools from May From my first-hand observations at Boston before dawn each day so that our students can greeting visitors as they walk in, our secretar- to September. Latin Academy, many more students received be transported safely to their schools. ies diplomatically handle all types of situ- This year, I salute the dedicated men and school lunch in SY 13-14 than in SY 12-13. This year, I salute all bus drivers who ations. When parents have a good personal women whose jobs it is to make every school My estimate is a 40% increase. I could be handle traffic, weather, and controversy with interaction at our schools, it helps all of us a safe place to learn. wrong, but undeniably the lines were longer grace and little recognition. both politically and professionally. and the cafeteria workers hustled each and This year, I salute all secretaries and Parents every day. Custodians administrative assistance who run, guide and/ What did not increase were the number or manage the daily operations of our schools. Last, but not least, I’d like to thank all of workers assigned to BPS cafeterias. Per- In my years of teaching, I have seen great the parents who work hard to ensure their haps in the entire system there were actually reductions in the staffing levels in our schools. children’s success. From bake-sales to parent- more employees this year than last. But to my Those who are left must do much more work. School Police teacher conferences, our jobs as educators knowledge, the USDA’s grant did not cover the In my opinion, the mark of a good custodial Most workers take for granted that their would much more difficult and isolated were hiring of extra workers. BLA could have used staff is spritely magic. worksite is safe and secure. Thanks to our it not for the time, energy and commitment a 40% increase in workers just to hand out the Often we take for granted that overflow- own police officers, the students and staff parents spend in buildings and for our stu- food to the students, let alone to prepare it. ing barrels are emptied and stand ready for can too. Our school police are positive role dents. This year, a salute all parents for getting This year, I salute all cafeteria workers each new day. Minor repairs are fixed on the models for our young students, and a source their children to school on time, for preparing who pushed themselves to the limits so that spot so that learning can continue. When our of protection of all. them for a busy day, and for entrusting to us our students could be fed. littlest children have accidents or become ill, I marvel at how they can wear their uni- their most treasured loves.

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly… continued from page 1 his was also a year of change for a num- to Level 3. We congratulate these schools for groups and shored up our Building Rep. net- our members for working with us through Tber of our schools that were or are about their great efforts even as we decry the unfair works. We also provided ongoing training these difficult times. I can assure you that to be ‘transitioned’ by the state into a new system that placed them into Turnaround in to our Building Reps., and we will continue our colleagues in cities throughout the coun- structure. The Dever and the Holland were the first place. that expansion next year. Thank you Brenda, try are facing the same challenges as we are. placed into state receivership, in effect mov- And we also have schools that are between Caren, Jessica, Josefina, and Michael. Bren- Layoffs, school closings, ‘surplused’ staff, ing out of Level 4 status/Turnaround to Level levels, whatever that means. English HS da Chaney managed another successful year school takeovers, expanding state charter 5/Receivership status. These moves came and the E. Greenwood are both Turnaround with our Homework Helper program; Caren schools, flawed performance evaluation, with much angst and resistance by staff and Schools but have been forced to hire Blue- Carew ran our School Site Trainings and pro- budget cutbacks, increased standardized parents at both schools. print (at the urging of the State ED Commis- grams, in addition to her other duties; Jessica testing – each of these developments affects The Dever was handed over to Education sioner, Mitchell Chester) as an EMO to pro- Tang reached out to countless parent groups our colleagues throughout the country. Management Organization (EMO) Blue- vide both tutoring and management expertise. and worked to connect with our membership That’s the bad news. The good news is that print and the Dever to Up Academy, which How Blueprint, itself without any experience, on a variety of levels; Josefina Lascano hit there are strong signs of pushback, signs of now has three schools in Boston – two can provide expertise to two Boston public the ground running and did a great job and ran rebellion, and signs of hope. Have a good Horace Mann Charters (formerly the Gavin Schools is beyond our comprehension?! a wonderful Para conference; and Michael break, and be well. and the Marshall) and the Holland. While Comprehensive staff surveys at both schools McLaughlin, in addition to his most of the teachers and paras at the Dever taken last year bear that out: Staff nearly uni- service as a field rep, worked and the Holland will be BTU members versally had little or no confidence in Blue- as a member of the Retirement under the state’s receivership, both schools print’s ability to help their school. That, how- Board on a host of needed operate like Commonwealth charters rather ever, didn’t stop the state from handing over issues for our membership. than BPS schools. How so? All you need to the Dever to Blueprint. Nor did it encourage We held more politically-based know is that the staff at the Dever and the the school district to question. discussions or meet and greets Holland schools will work in excess of 700 Kudos to the staffs at English HS and with local reps and senators uncompensated hours next year. And in year the E Greenwood for speaking out about the than ever before, and were far two of this forced receivership, staff at both ineffectiveness of Blueprint. Shame to the more visible on Beacon Hill. schools will be taken off the salary grid. school department for not pushing back on Thank you, Angela Cristiani. That really is all you . Little the imposition of Blueprint in what looks to We also have held multiple wonder no more than two or three teachers many like a sweetheart deal by the office of series of workshops that seek are staying at either school next year. This is the commissioner. to help our members improve Ed Reform in the new age. their craft and to understand In addition to the above transitions, we inally, while much of the above is cer- better what is needed to com- had schools leaving Level 4/Turnaround for Ftainly not good, the BTU had many good ply with the new performance higher levels. Orchard and the Trotter moved things happening. Here are a few: evaluation process. Thank you, from Turnaround to Level 1; The Blackstone, We made inroads in developing better Patrick. Patrick Connolly has J.F. Kennedy and Harbor, from Turnaround relationships with parents and community also been our go-to person on working with teachers facing termination and Madison Park – both thankless tasks – and we appreciate his leadership on both. Along the same lines, we have worked with hundreds of members in about-to-be closed schools in shoring up their resumés. Many of our members haven’t had to do this in years, and we worked very hard to try to meet our members’ needs. Thank you, Paul and Charles, for taking care of this. Charles Johnson also has served as our chief representative on the city unions’ task force on health insurance. All of the above efforts have The Boston Teachers Union congratulates BTU been team efforts. President, Richard Stutman for being elected a Vice And from me, thank you to President to our national organization, the American our team, and thanks to all of Federation of Teachers!

2 | BOSTON UNION TEACHER | July-August, 2014 Know Your Rights by Caren Carew BT U If I Become a National Board Certified Teacher, Do I Get a Raise? es. The BTU-BPS contract states, “All have a Bachelors degree, have completed at Can BTU Members Hold YNational Board Certified Teachers least 3 full years of teaching, & hold a valid shall receive additional compensation in the state teaching license. The 2014 Guide to School-Based Union Meetings amount of 4% of their annual base salary National Board Certification has more in Within Individual Schools? as long as they hold National Board Cer- depth info available. Additional info concern- es – according to the BPS-BTU Col- Caren Carew tification. Such payment will be part of the ing the NBPTS can be found on the boardcer- Ylective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), BTU Secondary teacher’s annualized salary for retirement tifiedteachers.org website. “Union meetings may be held on school Field Representative purposes.“ There is a BPS-BTU National Board property by faculty members of individual “Teachers who successfully complete Candidate Support Program to provide info to schools provided there is no interference with the certification process of the National BTU teachers who are considering applying any school activity. School buildings will be inspection by teachers and shall be made Board for Professional Teaching Standards as well to assist those who choose to do so. available for the conducting of union busi- available to teachers on request and shall be (NBPTS) shall be reimbursed by the BPS for The BTU contact for this program is Karene- ness outside of school hours subject to prior kept in an available file with a dated check- the costs of the application fees. Although not Sean Hines at [email protected]. Ms. scheduling and in accordance with the pres- list.” A variation of this practice is to have a requirement, successful completion of the Hines states, “The BPS-BTU NBPTS Candi- ent fee agreements.” Fees may be incurred all of the aforementioned circulars contained NBPTS certification requirements may be date Support Program facilitates teachers in if any meetings are held beyond the time a in a large binder with dated checklists for considered as a special qualification for Lead developing instructional knowledge and skills school building is open, thus requiring pay teacher’s and other BTU members to initial Teacher eligibility. Teachers who receive necessary to differentiate instruction, so that to custodians who must be present and com- in between each circular, on the counter of the reimbursement for the NBPTS certification every student may improve academically. Cur- pensated according to their contract for said school’s main office or in another such central process shall commit to remain in the BPS rently, we have nearly 100 NBCTs working additional time. location. If either one of these options is not system for at least two years after receipt of within the [BPS]district. In certain schools, occurring at your school, ask the school secre- such reimbursement.” National Board Certified teachers cluster, Is Summer School Treated tary about it and make the principal aware that Over 100,000 teachers nationwide have mostly due to administrators’ insight that they are contractually obligated to have this attained this “highest mark of professional NBCTs on staff promote the formation of pro- Like the Regular School Year information available in this fashion. accomplishment” which according to the fessional learning communities. This culture Contractually? The contract says; “A copy of current NB website, “… allows teachers to hone values effective instruction and demonstrable o, it is not. Summer school is not gov- teaching programs, non-teaching assign- their practice, showcase their talent in the student academic outcomes. National Board Nerned by the collective bargaining ments, administrative and planning and classroom, and demonstrate their dedication Certification promotes professional develop- agreement in the same way the standard development periods shall be available at to their students and their profession.” Dur- ment that cultivates reflective adjustments school year is. Some time ago the BTU took each school.” When teachers and coaches ing this process the teacher collects standards in practice, identifies effective teachers with the issue of summer school salary not being are trying to plan common planning time, based evidence of accomplishment of teach- demonstrable student growth, and enables retirement worthy to court to demand that this cross curricular projects, science fairs, and ing across the following four components: staff to adopt a culture of excellence.” At this earned income be retirement worthy. Unfor- the like, they need to be able to view all of (1) content knowledge (2) differentiation time, the NBC Support Program is finalizing tunately, the court ruled against the case. the information listed above in order to do so. of instruction (3) teaching practice & class- their 2014-15 calendar, they have tentatively The BTU/BPS contract reports, “The School This must be made available upon request. It room environment (4) being an effective & scheduled two info sessions, Wednesday, Department shall determine the summer is not a secret who has what schedule in the reflective practitioner. The site also states September 17 and Tuesday, October 7 – one program curriculum, all aspects of operation building. Knowledge is power. that attainment of this status provides said to be held at the BTU and the other at the BPS and administration of the program, including To have sufficient time in order to order NBCT membership in a nationwide network Center for Leadership Development. Both employment in the program, salary, hours, supplies, the contract details; “All catalogues, of accomplished teachers, an opportunity to sessions will be posted on MyLearningPlan and conditions of employment. Employee approved lists for educational materials, and shape the profession, reflect on best practices, where educators may sign up and the dates & participation in the summer program shall be book order forms shall be delivered to the and to find immediate classroom applica- locations will also be publicized in the BTU voluntary. Selection of employees shall be as schools a minimum of six (6) weeks before tions of what they’ve learned in the process. E-Bulletin proximate to the sessions occur- determined by the [school] Department.” the orders are to be placed.” Teachers should In order to be eligible to apply, teachers must ring. inquire if this has occurred and work with the administration, SSC, ILT, etc. to order the How Do I Obtain Information appropriate materials with teacher input. at My School Site About continued on page 5 Official BPS Circulars, Teachers’ Schedules, and BT U Approved Catalogues to Order Phone Numbers Supplies From? Office ...... 617-288-2000 fficial BPS circulars, including Super- Health & Welfare ...... 617-288-0500 Ointendent’s Circulars, and the like are AFT Massachusetts ...... 617-423-3342 found on the BPS website www.bostonpub- Function Office ...... 617-288-3322 licschools.org. In addition to the BPS web- Lounge Office ...... 617-288-3322 site, the contract states; “All official circulars Vision Center ...... 617-288-5540 shall be posted on school bulletin boards for Tremont Credit Union ...... 781-843-5626

Bost BT U n Union Printworks Union Teacher (L to R) Jessica Tang, outgoing AFT Executive Vice President Francine Lawrence and Michael Maguire accept AFTCN Publication Awards on behalf of the Boston Union Published by the Boston Teachers Union, AFT Local 66, AFL-CIO Teacher. Congratulations on a great job. Boston Union Teacher EDITORIAL NOTE: The Boston Union is published eleven times a year The opinions expressed in the Boston Union Teacher Wins Teacher do not necessarily represent the views of September - July, inclusive. the Boston Teachers Union, or those of its members.

Three Publication Awards President WHEN WRITING: RICHARD F. STUTMAN Boston Union Teacher he American Federation of Teachers Communications Network honored the Boston Union All correspondence to the must be typewritten and include the author’s name Teacher in three categories. Vice President T PATRICK J. CONNOLLY and school or department if not school-based. Best Organizing Materials – First Place Secretary-Treasurer All articles must be appropriate to the publication, and in good taste. Boston Truth CHARLES R. JOHNSON by Jessica Tang Letters to the Editor should be sent to Co-Editors [email protected]. October, 2013 MICHAEL J. MAGUIRE GARRET VIRCHICK Best Profile – Second Place DEADLINE: Editorial Board The deadline for submitting articles for the “All Souls Author Michael Patrick MacDonald Speaks at BTU Hall” Caren Carew next issue of the Boston Union Teacher is by Lillie Marshall Angela Cristiani August 8th. June, 2012 All copy should be e-mailed to Josefina Lascano [email protected] and [email protected] Michael McLaughlin This deadline will be strictly adhered to. Best Feature Story – Second Place “The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness” 180 Mount Vernon Street | Boston, MA 02125 by Garret Virchick 617-288-2000 | 617-288-2463 | Fax 617-288-0024 | www.btu.org February, 2013 BOSTON UNION TEACHER | July-August, 2014 | 3 Organizing News & Notes by Jessica Tang BT U A Call to Action: Understanding Advocacy on the Accountability System and the Impact of the Charter Cap n the past month, Commonwealth1 charter charter school cap in the lowest per- but you should also know that originally, the Ischool advocates have been sending out forming districts in the state.2 Board was considering increasing the growth Jessica Tang e-mails to their list-serves and allies with a lot Instead, what we WERE advocating to 30%. However, under heavy lobbying and BTU Organizer of misleading information, including vilify- FOR was: pressure from the Massachusetts Charter ing the Boston Teachers Union and its mem- * Using more of the MCAS Growth School Association (whose allies sent over And this is all DESPITE the fact that bers for advocating for a more fair account- Scores in the state’s accountability for- 1000 e-mails to BESE members) in a week, overall, they do NOT serve English Language ability system. This is an adapted version of mula. the suggesting percentage was lowered from Learners or Students with Disabilities – espe- a letter written in response to much of the * Addressing inequities caused by charter 30% to 25%. cially severe disabilities – anywhere close to misinformation that was being disseminated funding formulas/lack of reimburse- We had advocated for 50% or greater the rates of BPS. (You can see the BTU ad for parents, teachers, and others who may ment to districts and discriminatory growth be considered in the calculations, but that compares these averages.) have received the e-mails from them, with practices the good news was that it was still increased a To be fair, not all charters discriminate – an additional section on the need for teacher Currently, the state uses a small percentage small amount. Thank you to all of the members but just as there are good charters and bad advocacy and organizing. of growth (20%) for calculating which schools who responded to the E-Bulletin call to action charters, there are good BPS schools and (Note to charter teachers or parents who are identified as Levels 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, but it and took the time to write BESE members! BPS schools that have a lot more room to send their children to charter schools: Please puts cities like Boston at a severe disadvan- grow. However, at the end of the day BPS know this is not an attack on you, your students tage because we serve very large populations Vote Number 2: Keeping the schools serve the majority of students in Bos- or families. We know you work hard and do of English Language Learners, students with ton and are not getting what they need to get great work, too, and we know that each parent disabilities, and low-income students, and Cap on Commonwealth better because of the very unfair funding prac- has to make choices that they think are best for high actual score correlate with high socio- Charter Schools tices and accountability formulas. Expanding their students. This is not a judgment of any of economic status. The MCAS test alone is second vote that took place this past charters before the inequities are addressed those choices – this is about addressing equity not an appropriate measure of achievement A month included legislation to raise the will hurt more students overall. Oftentimes, and looking at the big picture in a way that for these students. Here’s why: Imagine a 6th cap on charter schools. Unfortunately, legis- charter school advocates point to their long promotes access to equity and quality across grader having to take the MCAS after only lation did pass the of Representatives “waiting lists.” However, BPS also has a the board together, for all students.) being in the country for one year – the student without any of the amendments that would waiting list for schools of 14,266 students may have acquired two years growth of learn- have addressed inequities, and at the time AFTER the third round of assignments this Vote Number 1: The ing English, but still fails the MCAS because of press, a bill was released from the Senate year. Expanding charters is not the solution to “Accountability Formula” they are not yet able to read English at the 6th Ways and Means Committee and was likely creating more quality schools for all students. grade level. They those students are labeled to be voted on. We asked our members to BPS has schools that are working, too—let’s and BESE as “warning” and failing even though they call legislators and urge them NOT to raise expand them and support schools to be better. irst, there was the Board of Elementary learned more than a year’s worth of English the cap on Commonwealth Charter Schools Fand Secondary Education’s vote to change in the one year they were even here! because they are hurting the majority of The Bottom Line: Teacher the state’s accountability system formula. It is not a coincident that schools identified schools in Boston. Leadership=Teacher Advocacy This is the formula used to identify level 1, as Level 4 almost always have high popula- What you should know: Expanding char- 2, 3, 4, and now 5 schools. The vote was to tions of ELL students and often have just had ters creates questionable options or opportu- e know that what parents and students increase the percentage of the formula that an increase of ELL students over the last few nities for some, but at the expense of all of W(and teachers!) need is more invest- accounts for growth. years. The MCAS is not an accurate measure the rest. Next year Boston Public Schools is ment and supports for our schools so that we The Massachusetts Charter School Asso- of their learning and growth, yet schools are losing about $116 million dollars to charter can make our schools better and get students ciation suggested that the Board of Elemen- labeled using predominantly that one measure. schools that only serve 14% of the population what they need. We are doing what we can tary and Secondary Education’s vote would: This is why the Boston Teachers Union – and they get over 50% of the state local aid! each year with less and less while we try to 1. deny high quality public school choice is advocating for using more growth, not just That means our BPS schools have less – serve ALL student populations. We do NOT to thousands of students in low-per- actual scores, in the formula. Growth is an achers are cut, after school programs are cut, need more inequity or discriminatory prac- forming districts. equally, if not more important indication of librarians, counselors, etc. And at the same tices in our city. However, we also MUST 2. lower the standards for districts by success with students than actual scores! time, we are getting the majority of the students ADVOCATE TO MAKE CHANGE! This rewarding them even when their student The Board of Elementary and Second- who are counseled out or kicked out of charter means taking 30 seconds to send and e-mail achievement remains very low. ary Education did in fact vote to increase schools (as their student population goes down, or make a call to our legislators, and this also 3. dismantle the 2010 law that lifted the the growth percentage from 20% to 25%, their scores go up – see the chart below for means keeping informed about the policy some examples comparing a BPS school with changes that may hurt us, and coming up with selective entrance, compared to charter schools ideas to advocate for that will help us. that also have selective entrance.)3 Our union – our members – 6,000 strong Their graduation rates are also no better have the power to make the changes we need than BPS: continued on page 9

1 Commonwealth Charter Schools are different from “In-District” or “Horace Mann Charter schools that are a part of the BPS system. We have BTU members in the “In-District” charters like Boston Day and Evening Academy, UP schools, Dudley Neighborhood Charter School. Commonwealth charters are considered independent districts and their teachers are not in the BTU. 2 Taken from an e-mail from the Mass Charter School Association on June 18th with the subject “6 DAYS LEFT BEFORE BOARD OF ED VOTE - Teachers Union mobilizes...” 3 Charts are courtesy of John Lerner, a BPS parent advocate.

4 | BOSTON UNION TEACHER | July-August, 2014 First Annual Professional Learning Conference By Paul Tritter n Bunker Hill Day, June 17th, More than 130 people attended the first Oannual Professional Learning Conference at the BTU. Members talked shop, engaged with big ideas, and shared their learning journeys and stories with one another. All of the morning workshops were hosted by In the after- noon, we heard from Susan Moore Johnson about how to grow opportuni- ties for teacher leadership and about how some districts across the country are trying new ways of growing the profession. We closed with members sharing their reflections and learning at the open-mic. Many attendees left inspired, and optimistic about the future of our union as we seek to deepen our long standing commitment to representing the best of the teaching pro- fession. It was a terrific day and the beginning of a great new tradition for the BTU. If you were unable to attend and would like to learn more about the work presented, you can read the work of the Professional Learning Grant win- ners on the BTU website (btu.org).

Mary Jane O’Brien of the Warren Prescott joins a team explaining how they created student support teams that work for all stakeholders.

Patricia Hagen of Charlestown High School leads a packed workshop on standards-based grading.

Teachers share ideas about supporting the use of instructional technology with BPS and city oicials.

Cathy O’Flaherty and Kellyanne Mahoney of BLA share their student symposium with colleagues at a TableTalk.

A full house at the BTU for the lunch time TableTalks, where members held informal conversations about issues in education.

Know Your Rights… continued from page 3 What Does ‘Buying Back’ Time and now have to pay it back or must work the worked in this manner in order to accelerate your ton City Hall. Get a time/date stamped copy extra years in order to have it credited towards eligibility for retirement (alas)! of your request when you submit it for your for Retirement Mean? their retirement. It also applies to people who In order to determine what credible service records. You then will need to work out an uying back time for retirement credible worked eligible jobs, subbed, and the like time towards retirement you currently have and individualized payment plan with the Retire- Bservice applies to people who were laid off who may need to pay into the retirement sys- how much time you may be eligible to buy ment Office once your case has been reviewed or resigned from BPS and took money out of tem to have that time/money credited towards back, you must make a written request to the and the amount of time and its corresponding their retirement account to live on while laid off their retirement. You cannot pay for time not Boston Retirement Office, Room 816 in Bos- dollar amount has been arrived at.

BOSTON UNION TEACHER | July-August, 2014 | 5 BTU Members Arrive in L.A. for the AFT Convention…

See AFT Convention story on page 8.

…at the Los Angeles Convention Center Photos by Michael J. Maguire

6 | BOSTON UNION TEACHER | July-August, 2014 BTU Joins the Staples Boycott Outside Staples Center

Photos by Michael J. Maguire BOSTON UNION TEACHER | July-August, 2014 | 7 AFT Convention Passes a Special Order to Fight Back Against Attacks on Unions and Teachers and to Fight Forward to Reclaim the Promise of America FT convention delegates on July 13 the public schools we want and deserve, and And when they fall short, they should have a and well-trained, and middle-class jobs are Aunanimously passed a special order of leading with us in reclaiming the promise of chance to improve. And that’s what this spe- protected. business – recommended by the executive public education.” cial order represents. Make no mistake about “Postal workers are the most amazing council – to fight back against attacks on It asks the president to take the following it: There’s a lot of hurt that has been expressed public servants,” said Weingarten. “Who does unions and teachers like Vergara v. Califor- actions: from the floor – the feeling that the secretary Staples really want and need to come into its nia and Harris v. Quinn, and to fight forward Enact the funding and equity recommen- of education doesn’t walk in the shoes of stores every single day? Teachers. The best to reclaim the promise of America. dations of the Each and Every Child report public educators or provide the support and way we can help is if we say to Staples: ‘You The special order characterizes these issued by the congressionally chartered, resources necessary to ensure all children do this to the postal workers, and we aren’t lawsuits as “contributing to an escalating and bipartisan Equity Commission; have a high-quality public education.” buying supplies in your stores.’” engineered imbalance in our democracy.” Work with us to change the NCLB/ H H H H H APWU President Mark Dimondstein Amended from the floor, the order – RTTT “test and punish” accountability sys- FT President Randi Weingarten and addressed the importance of America’s mid- originally drafted by the executive council tem to a “support and improve” model; and Athousands of AFT convention delegates dle class standing together against the effort to – was revised to include strong language on Promote rather than question the teach- joined members of the American Postal Work- privatize and demonize U.S. postal workers. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, who ers and school support staff of America. ers Union and other community members July He said, “We too are in the public sector, we publicly supported the Vergara decision. It It goes on to say that if “Secretary Duncan does 12 in rally telling the United States Postal Ser- too are meeting the needs of people. We’re derides his promotion of “misguided and not improve, and given that he has been treated vice and the Staples corporation that the “U.S. facing some of the same problems you are – I ineffective policies on deprofessionalization, fairly and his due process rights have been Mail Is Not for Sale.” They demanded an end call it divert, defund, demoralize, demonize privatization and test obsession.” upheld, the secretary of education must resign.” to the United States Postal Service’s plan to and dismantle.” The order calls on the president of the AFT President Randi Weingarten made let Staples employees operate postal counters The AFT also passed a resolution in sup- United States to “implement a secretary a statement following the passage of the spe- inside 1,500 stores, ultimately putting 80,000 port of APWU’s boycott against Staples Inc. improvement plan which will be based upon cial order: postal service jobs in jeopardy. It resolves “that members of the AFT, along standing up for public education, supporting “This special order is basically saying, The action is a continuation of the AFT’s with friends, colleagues and family members, teachers and all school workers, inspiring “Enough is enough.” Teachers are evaluated effort to reclaim the promise of an America are urged to no longer shop at Staples stores parents and the public to join us in creating and their future livelihoods are linked to that. where consumers are safe, workers are valued until further notice.”

Enjoying Baseball On The Left Coast!

Photos by Michael J. Maguire

Watching a Game at Dodger Stadium

8 | BOSTON UNION TEACHER | July-August, 2014 Hooray For Hollywood!

A Call to Action… continued from page 4 in our schools to improve them. I know that community members, are voices will be that teaching is overwhelming these days – that’s much stronger. This is what we have learned the most common word I heard this year from places like Chicago and St. Paul that talking to members in our schools. But it is have been able to successfully fight back not a coincidence that this is happening and against harmful policies, and advocate FOR because we are overwhelmed is exactly why the policies we know will actually help our we need to start speaking up and coming schools improve. together to collectively fight back to achieve the teaching and learning conditions we need Upcoming Dates: to succeed with our students. In addition to our president’s E-bulletins, Prospective Rep Building Rep our union meetings at the school and union Info Sessions in August! hall are places to go to stay informed and take re you looking for a teacher-leader role? action. Teacher leadership includes advocacy Are you interested in learning more for our profession and for our students and A about what the role of a Building Rep is? community. This means finding the time to Are you interested in running for a building send an e-mail, make a call, attend events rep position at your school? If you answered with policy makers and legislators. Our union “yes” to any of these questions, please come meetings can also be a place where we come to a Prospective Building Rep info session in up with ideas for what to advocate FOR. We August to learn more! cannot defend the status quo, we must be pro- Please RSVP to Jessica at [email protected] active about advocating for the supports and Dates: policies that will help us to do better. We can August 12, 10 am-11 am come together to do this. August 20, 4-5 pm There are also groups, such as the Bos- August 26, 5-6 pm ton Truth Coalition for Educational Justice that the BTU is a part of are working with that are organizing in our neighborhoods to SAVE THE DATES: bring together parents, students, and teachers to make all of our schools stronger. Parents, First Membership Meeting of students, and community members are our the Year natural allies. We don’t have to – and can’t (Second Wednesdays of every month): – do this work alone. Please consider hear- September 10, 4:15 pm. ing from them or joining them, too. This is why we now have a Family and Community Building Rep Conference Engagement Committee at the BTU. If we don’t speak up and speak out on October 24-26 behalf of our students and schools, who will? (Friday evening to Sunday morning) If we join together with parents, students, and

BOSTON UNION TEACHER | July-August, 2014 | 9 Commentary by Garret Virchick BT U Summer Reflections

lthough good teachers are constantly testing lab go much more smoothly than in stations where students could pick up the Aengaged in self-reflection it’s the sum- previous years. But my goal is to create an work from the previous days. Unfortunately mertime, a time without a hundred pressing inquiry based course. So I think next year I many did not take advantage of this. Over the issues, when we can truly take stock of the will go back to giving each student team a summer I will be working on refining those year that has passed to better prepare our- mortar and pestle and cheese cloth filters. It’s lessons and putting them into unit booklets. selves for the next. messy. But that’s science. Each student will start each quarter off with Garret Virchick When reflecting on one’s practice it is I started this year with the goal of having all of the required work pre-assembled. This Boston Union Teacher important to begin by looking at the positives. students keep a binder that included all the is not a magic bullet that will solve the prob- I work hard. If I had to quantify how hard I handouts for each unit. Science is a chal- lem of absenteeism. But it does remove one Co-Editor would say on average I work a 55-60 hour lenge for many of our students. It is another obstacle that may not seem like one to us, but week. But I decided that this year I would do language. And for many of our students who for too many of our students is an obstacle that Schools with high failure rates are penalized absolutely no work on Saturday. It’s impor- are still struggling to learn in English it can be reinforces what can only be called learned or scheduled for “turnaround status”. Some tant to work hard, but equally important to overwhelming. My feeling was that keeping helplessness. principals transfer this pressure onto teach- take care of oneself. their work in an orderly binder might provide Learned helplessness on the part of stu- ers. Teachers become fearful of alienating Probably the longest day was the one them with a structure to better learn the mate- dents in our high schools is a problem that has principals and students “learn” that it is the where I worked until 11 pm liquefying 12 rial. been fueled by this war on public education in teacher’s responsibility if they fail. I even had different kinds of food including chocolate For those who came every day this worked general and teachers in particular. As schools a student this year tell me that if too many of chip cookies, cauliflower, and almonds in my well. But for those that were absent it became have shifted to a corporate model there has them failed I would be fired! Cuisinart. The work I did made the nutrient one more hurdle in their mind. I did set up been tremendous pressure to “show results”. I discussed this phenomenon with the science coach (who has since been excessed due to budget cuts) during the school year. I agreed with her when she said that much of this learned helplessness stems from the tremendous amount of “scaffolding” that teachers are being asked to do for students. “They have been scaffolded to death!” This is not to say that we must not structure lessons that help our students construct . But too often there is a tendency to over structure lessons leaving little struggle for the student. Build into this the over-reliance on standard- ized tests which teaches students they must always find the “right” answer. I want stu- dents to learn to explore the world and make sense of it. Yet students have become fearful of doing anything without checking with the teacher first. This is something we all need to pay attention to if we are going to improve public schools. Motivating students continues to be something that keeps me thinking as a teacher. But as students are given less and less choice as to what to study in high school it becomes more and more difficult to inspire. This is not the case in richer school districts. Go to high school in New- Teachers from Oceanside, New York at the Teaching & Learning Conference in Washinton, DC. ton and in Art alone there are 24 offerings including photography, ceramics, and art history. In science there are multiple options that include opportunities to be a classroom How Can Schools Find Success? aide where students pursue their own course of study with approval of a teacher. When Cultivate, Collaborate and Coordinate students are given little choice over what course of study to pursue we fight an uphill by Michael J. Maguire battle when it comes to motivation. he teachers and administrators at the Oceanside School District But within our courses we can build in Tin Oceanside, NY have recently started a program whereby choice with the hope of motivating and inspir- National Board Certified Teachers (NBCT) mentor teachers new to ing students. Last year I assigned what is the district. The National Board paid for a grand so that the Oceanside called the Critter Project into the curriculum. District could purchase space on The Teaching Channel’s app called Students were asked to imagine a fictional Teach Team. Representative from Oceanside presented their success at Critter to “fit” into an environment, draw and the Teaching & Learning 2014 Conference held in Washington, DC on explain their adaptations to the environment, March 14-15, 2014. and throughout the year explain what they Dr. Phyllis Harrington, Oceanside superintendent, wants to have learned by applying their understanding empower her teachers. “We are smarter,” Harrington says, “because we to their Critter. This kind of creative thinking are a collective think tank.” exercise is a challenge for our students who In NY state, first year teachers get a mentor. But in the second year have been conditioned through over standard- the novice teacher is on her own. In Oceanside a first, second or third ization NOT to think outside the box. But year novice is paired with a NCBT. The novice teacher, called a resident, those students that came to understand that I is videotaped via an iPad or similar device. Then, in a private Facebook- wasn’t looking for the “right” answer found like forum provided by The Teaching Channel, the NBCT gives con- a way to let their imagination flow. I learned structive feedback. The feedback is time-stamped to the video so that some things about how to better organize the the resident knows what event the mentor is referencing in any given project and look forward to continuing it next comment. year. The goal of Oceanside’s mentoring program is to transform effec- It seems that I do a lot of reflection these tive teachers into teacher leaders. “Trust is key,” said Robert Fenter, days on how I can design my classroom and Oceanside Assistant Superintendent. The trust is earned, he said, by curriculum given the restrictions being place being open, honest, and benevolent. All panelists at the conference stressed that the mentoring program on us by corporate education reform. The was separate from the evaluation process. The mentors neither evaluate corporate agenda, with its overly structured the residents nor do they share their findings with evaluators. Instead, teaching mandates has deskilled our profes- Marla Kilfoyle, an Oceanside, New York mentor-teacher, and sion. No longer are we encouraged to talk the mentors help the residents to refine their craft, thereby helping the BTU’s Michael Maguire. residents in their evaluations. about what is best for our students. Rather The process also allows mentoring teachers to experience what it is After overcoming the embarrassment of seeing herself on film, we are pushed to align with, implement, and like to be an evaluator. It helps the mentor to understand and appreciate resident Maria Flood praised the program. “I want to keep growing carry out mandates that aren’t always aligned what an evaluator is looking for in an evaluation. In keeping with the as a teacher,” she told the audience. with the best interests of our students. premise of National Board, the whole process is highly reflective. The Oceanside was only three months into the program at the time of But one thing is certain. I will always try residents themselves spend more time looking at the video tape than do the Teaching & Learning conference, but superintendent Harrington to figure out how to get my students to think, their mentors. has pledged to keep the program going. The private space on The to question, and to pursue learning. That is the Kathleen Nicoletti, resident teacher, says she has learned so much Teaching Channel’s app cost the district $5,000 for 40 residents. “We essence of teaching. My students deserve no from “seeing things from my students’ point of view.” consider it money well spent,” said assistant superintendent Fenter. less. 10 | BOSTON UNION TEACHER | July-August, 2014 BTU Health and Welfare Softball Season Finishes With Great he softball season finished Twith some great games. The semifinals were two tough games, the McKinley School and the Umana met in the semi- finals this was a game that went ten innings as the score was tied after seven and the game continued until the bottom of the tenth when the McKinley scored a run in the bottom of the tenth to win the game and go on to the finals. Although the Umana suffered a tough lost they played hard and well and hopefully they can come back next year and give it another run for the title. In the other semifinal game, the Boston Tech Academy were given all they could handle by a determined Lee School staff. The game was extremely close until the bottom of the sixth when the Boston Tech Acade- my scored two runs to go ahead four to two which was the final score. It was a great game and Tech Boston Academy probably the best of the year defensively as a score of four to two in slow pitch softball is extremely rare. Down to the final as the McKinley and the Boston Tech Academy faced off in the cham- pionship on a scorching hot day. It was close for the first three innings when Tech Academy pulled ahead with six runs to make it 8 to 2 Tech Academy scored a couple of more to make it 11 to 3 going into the seventh when the McKinley came roar- ing back to score six runs before Tech Academy finally got them out. all, the season was a success as the teams in the league enjoyed the chance to get together relax and have some fun away from the classroom. – Tom Boussy League Commissioner McKinley School News from the BTU Retired Teachers Chapter RTC Spring Luncheon A Huge Success ver two hundred RTC members attended Othis year’s annual spring luncheon held on Tuesday, May 20. Two Retired Teacher Chapter board members were honored for their dedication and hard work on behalf of the retired teachers’ chapter of the BTU. Marilyn Marion, Travel Committee chairs, Ruthanne Ken- Secretary; Ruthanne nedy and Mary Cahalane, were recognized Kennedy; David for their tireless work and successful trips for Donovan, Chairman; and Mary Cahalane. members, their families and friends. This fis- cal year was especially fruitful as they planned and attended trips to Cape Cod, Quabbin Reserve, Blithewold Mansion, Nashville and Mt. Washington. On Monday, June 23, a trip down memory lane will take place at Lan- tana’s in Randolph for a Doo Wop Concert. Congratulations, ladies, for a job well done. This year’s luncheon also included mem- bers of the Board of the Rollins Griffith Teacher Center. Yes, they are still around, and each year they offer scholarships to Boston Public School seniors who have committed to major in education or the arts. This year, 3 $1,500 scholarships were given to Boston Latin School seniors, Nikki Chan, Daniel For membership, call the RTC (617-288- 2000) office on Hines, and Shirley Fang. Wednesdays or Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for an appli- The Retired Teachers’ Chapter board cation. Once you have received your retirement number, you meets to support retired teachers through can submit your application. We’d love to have your involve- its committees - legislative, social, benefits, ment. Being part of RTC means you can stay involved with membership, travel, remembrance, and data longtime colleagues for social activities; receive dental and processing. Each month the minutes are eyeglass benefits and play a role in the educational and politi- posted in the BUT. The board does not meet cal policies for both active and retired teachers. during the summer months; however, it will Have a great summer. Maureen Jelloe, Board Director of the Rollins Griith Teacher Center, reconvene on Monday, September 8. – Marilyn F. Marion, Secretary displays a handmade Rollins Griith quilt. BOSTON UNION TEACHER | July-August, 2014 | 11 BTU Salutes 2014 Building Reps of the Year ongratulations to the 2014 Elementary Building Reps of the Year, Alvin Cooper Cand Colum Whyte. Alvin and Colum are part of the Lee Elementary School team of building reps. Both have worked together tirelessly with their faculty, two other reps, their administration, and the BTU office in continuing the great Lee School tradition of union activism. In addition to effective representation and advocacy on behalf of the Lee staff, Alvin and Colum stepped up and took on extra responsibilities on behalf of the entire membership. The BTU appreciates their time and efforts in awarding Alvin Cooper and Colum Whyte the 2014 Building Reps of the Year. – Michael McLaughlin, BTU Elementary Field Rep.

he 2014 BTU Middle School Building Rep of the Year is Mr. Darren T. TWells from the Timilty Middle School who has been an outstanding Build- ing Rep for many years serving his colleagues as part of a strong BTU Rep team at the Tim. Darren has his finger on the pulse of his colleagues, and has a keen sense of what their issues are as they peculate. This skill enables him to preemptively be part of the solution to BTU members concerns whenever possible. Making sure his BTU colleagues and his students’ rights and responsi- bilities are known and upheld are organically a part of him. His professionalism, knowledge, sense of purpose, humor and fashion sense combine to make him a compelling force to be reckoned with in all aspects. Darren walks in his own power with a confident sense of self as an educator, as a colleague, and as a person in the world with a sense of social justice in the process of improving the circumstances around him. In addition to this recognition, Mr. Wells has won many awards for his science teaching as well as for other professional and com- munity involvements. He believes passionately in what is right and just for all people which is part of what makes him as effective as he is as an urban school educator and as a strong BTU Representative. Mr. Darren Wells exemplifies the assertion that as AFT members, we are a union of professionals.

he 2014 High School BTU Reps are the inseparable and incomparable team Tof Mr. Bruce E. Collotta and Sergeant Major James W. Kelly from the Community Academy of Science & Health, better known as CASH. This complimentary couple have been a BTU Rep team beginning in Hyde Park High School, then continued as HP comprehensive high school was into 3 small schools including CASH located at the same building then called the Hyde Park Education Complex, and continued when the other two small high schools in the HPEC were closed and CASH was relocated to share the Cleveland School building in Fields Corner with the Harbor Pilot School. This go-to team rode the rapids during and after the difficult break up of their high school into three separate entities and served ably throughout this arduous, painful, and sometimes chaotic process, supporting their colleagues, seeking out info, navigating the changing terrain, and adeptly forging and maintaining working relationships with three different headmasters and their supporting cast of second tier administrators. In this phase, Bruce and Sergeant Major Kelly were called complex wide BTU Reps as they were elected from the aggregated group of eligible BTU members from the entire HPEC. They were sought out by BTU members in the three different schools to deal with varied BTU and work concerns. By knowing the parameters of the contract as well as having good interpersonal skills working with both labor and management, they have frequently been able to successfully get a good read on the situation upfront and then work through the process in the most advantageous way for their col- leagues. Bruce and Jim often seek out targeted info from the BTU in order to best serve their colleagues, upholding their collective bargaining rights. These guys can cut to the heart of the matter, assess the situation, figure out the best strategy to deal with it, and effectively execute the action plan. Together, Bruce and Jim are a stealth team, flying under the radar, not needing to take credit, and thus getting the job done. The kids’ and their colleagues’ rights are always their priority, making Sergeant Major Kelly and Bruce Collotta an incredibly effective BTU Rep combo! he BTU would like to recognize and honor the two Paraprofessional Building Reps of the Year. – Caren Carew, Arletta Faulkner from the Curley K-8 is very dedicated to the work she does. Her dedication to BTU Secondary Field Rep. T represent everyone at the school is amazing. She is also very involved in many other school activities. Karen Perakis from the J.F. Kennedy School works hard to include all of the JFK’s staff making sure that the contract is honored. Karen, too, is remarkable. – Josefina Lascano, BTU Paraprofessional/Substitute Teacher Rep.

12 | BOSTON UNION TEACHER | July-August, 2014