September 1, 2009

East Providence teachers say ‘no’ to extra time, money

EPEA members approve ‘PRIDE’

     Last night, East Providence teachers overwhelmingly voted to put an end to volunteering their free time for the district and spending their own money on classroom supplies. “We’re not going to subsidize the school department any longer,” said East Providence Education Association President (EPEA) Valarie Lawson.

    The EPEA is calling their action “PRIDE” – Professional Response Initiative of Dedicated Educators.

    The motion was made in frustration over contentious relations between teachers and the School Committee over contract negotiations. The Committee imposed a pay cut and increases in co-share rates last January to save the district money. The issue is pending before Superior Court and the State Labor Relations Board.

    Teachers will focus on teaching and learning by volunteering beyond their work hours for activities such as extra help for students or writing college recommendations, but they will not participate in after school activities, meetings, or events as chaperones. Teachers will continue to attend meetings scheduled within their workday. Sports will not be affected.

    “It’s clear that the School Committee doesn’t respect or value our effort,” said Lawson. “We cannot continue to give away our time and money. We have to take a stand against the Committee’s disrespect.”
   
    The EPEA will not stop events from taking place, according to Lawson, but force the district to find alternative methods rather than depend on teacher volunteers. “There will be a Homecoming Dance if parents step up to let it happen,” she said.