2007 Bargaining Chairperson Named

The Council approved Terry SalasOrtiz (CCE) to continue and Bargaining Chairperson. Terry concluded 2006 negotiations in late November.

Terry’s next tasks are to recommend a bargaining team and develop bargaining surveys.

The current contract expires June 30. Surveys will include interests in what articles are to be opened to achieve overall improvements that can be made to the contract.

Negotiations are expected to begin in May. Wages will not be settled until the State budget is completed. The State process is generally not complete until late summer.

Soaring Health Insurance Costs Are A Concern to All Members

Intermediate Director Julian De La Torre (EAI) is a member of the Health and Welfare Committee. He reported to Council last Tuesday that the anticipated high costs on Health Insurance has caused the members of the committee to review the Blue Cross plan design and consider all available options. The Health and Welfare Committee tentatively plans to survey members regarding insurance preferences.

The Council viewed a short film regarding the State of California becoming a single payer for all health insurance. Were this plan in place last year, MUSD would have saved $10 million. The film is available for downloading at montebelloteachers.org.

Do you have Personal Property At School?

The Contract provides for reimbursement for personal equipment at school under the following conditions:

· The maximum claim is $250

· The employee completed the District Personnel Equipment Authorization Form.

Ask your site secretary for the form. Complete it for every personal computer, VCR, CD player, and other equipment you have brought from home. For more information See Article XVII Safety, Security, and General Working Conditions Section F.2.b. p.53.