JFT Update: Happy Holidays
December 20, 2021
Paraeducator Grievance
JPPSS Policy states that para educators may be used as substitutes only in emergencies when substitutes including teachers as substitutes are not available. It has come to our attention that at many schools, Para educators are increasingly being used as substitutes in situations that do not qualify as emergencies. The justification provided is that para educators are covering classes because of staffing shortages and vacancies. These shortages and vacancies were not caused by an emergency. There was no sudden, urgent, unexpected occurrence or occasion requiring immediate action. Staffing shortages and vacancies could and should have been anticipated. The school system’s vacancies and high absenteeism should not fall on the shoulders of para educators.
Given this information, it became necessary for the Jefferson Federation of Teachers to file a grievance on behalf of the paraeducators of the district. It has been received by the district, and we anticipate a meeting, in the near future, to resolve this issue. We will meet with our paraeducator members to discuss the results of the grievance.