Jefferson Federation of Teachers
August/September Newsletter
School is back in full swing! 🎉
Hello JFT members! We’re excited to bring you the latest updates, events, and resources to keep you connected. Our organizers have been busy preparing for school visits that will begin soon. When they visit your school, be sure to stop by and pick up your JFT umbrella and a copy of your Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
August 🌟
Our Federation Field Trip to the STEM Library Lab on Thursday, August 28th, was a fantastic success! A big thank-you to everyone who joined us for camaraderie, networking, and exploring this amazing resource.
The STEM Library Lab offers FREE services like copying and laminating to support teachers. No one left empty-handed! If you haven’t already, check out their website at https://stemlibrarylab.org, take a tour, and put these valuable resources to use.
September 📅
General Membership Meeting
On Tuesday, September 2, 2025, JFT hosted its first general membership meeting at the Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 60 Hall. LFT President Larry Carter addressed members on the State of the Union from the state level.
He shared our 2025 Legislative Session victories, where—through collective effort—we defeated multiple union-busting bills that had the potential to harm unionizing efforts. . Our presence in Baton Rouge made a difference and showed the strength of educators united.
CBA Update – Article 12: Teacher Supplies
JFT successfully returned to the table with JP Schools to put parameters and guardrails around Article 12. Teachers will continue to be reimbursed up to $250 per semester for supplies. This amendment will be included in the updated CBA that organizers will distribute during school visits.
Webinar: The DOs and DON’Ts of Social Media
JFT’s legal counsel, Larry Samuel, led a highly informative webinar on how to maintain a safe and professional online presence. President Sandra Hauer reminded members that online activity leaves a permanent footprint and urged everyone to stay cautious to protect their careers.
Didn’t make it? Don’t worry—JFT will host another Social Media DOs and DON’Ts webinar in January 2026 for new members joining mid-year.
JFT Building Representative Workshop 📝
Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
Time: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 60 Hall, 3515 N Interstate 10 Service Rd. W
Led by Organizer Lauren Francis, this workshop will prepare building reps with tools to support members at their schools.
JFT Legal Counsel Larry Samuel will also present his What Do I Do Now? legal guide, covering workplace laws, HR procedures, and best practices for representing members. Always a must-attend for our building representatives!
JP Schools Board Meeting Highlights
Catch up on what’s happening at the August and September JP Schools Board meetings by following the highlights linked below:
Looking Ahead 👀
Thank you for being part of the Jefferson Federation of Teachers! Please follow us on Facebook for the latest news, updates, and event announcements. Stay tuned for details about our October Federation Field Trip—you won’t want to miss it.
JFT leaders are working hard to ensure members understand that the union is not just the office or elected officers; the union is the membership itself, and its strength depends on the participation and involvement of all members. Together, we make our union strong!