MUSD Designated for Program
Improvement Status Under NCLB

Months of negotiations between state and federal education officials have resulted in a compromise requiring a re-calculation of California’s Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP). As a result there has been a ten-fold increase in the number of California school districts designated as Program Improvement (PI). The California Department of Education has identified Montebello USD (along with 149 more districts) as PI Year 1.

As such, the District must notify parents that the reason Montebello was identified as a PI district was the special education sub group. Within 90 days, the District must submit plans to remedy the situation to the California Department of Education. The District must also set aside at least 10% of the Title 1, Part A funds for professional development.

In addition, beginning in 2005-2006, Montebello will no longer be able to provide supplemental educational service.

The Association continues to monitor the Districts application of NCLB. President Margie Granado meets regularly with District administrators for the purpose protecting Bargaining Unit members rights throughout this process.

The Association’s plans include
Reviewing the Local Education Agency (LEA) plan
Bargaining any impact of the LEA plan to Bargaining Unit members
Consult with the District regarding any visiting external entities
Review all compliance reports

Remember: the Staff Inservice Committee shall advise and be consulted prior to all staff development activities (Article IV. Hours and Assignments, Section E.) This staff elected committee continues to monitor staff development throughout the PI process.

Blanche Chester
Teacher Advocate
Finalists

Phyllis Butland
Sharon Ramirez
Walter Lowery

Winner to be named
Tuesday, May 17

The MOU Deadline is
Friday, April 29

The District and the Association have developed joint memorandum of understanding (MOU) forms banking minutes and staff development day site specific waivers.

The MTA Site Specific Waiver Policy has been amended. Now, any Bargaining Unit member can request a vote prior to the Faculty Club recommendation.

There is one form for both the Faculty Club Chairperson and the site Principal to complete and return to District office. The form will then be forwarded to the MTA office.

MOU requests are due Friday, April 29. Forms are available at montebelloteachers.org, the MTA office, and the Instructional Division @ ext. 7924.