Job Security Courtesy of Your Organization
Don't be fooled into thinking that because you're a good teacher, no bad things will happen as you begin your teaching career. As a nontenured teacher it may seem as though you have no rights or protections. You're wrong!
You have rights and you need to protect them and it's the association that can do that for you. If you need help, run-don't walk to your nearest association rep or to your local president.
Here's some advice from the association in dealing with job security issues:
• Assaults Report the incident immediately to your principal and your association. Write down all the details of the incident-date, time, names, location.
• Child Abuse
By law, education professionals must report suspected cases of abuse of children under 18 years of age to the Department of Social Services. Notify your principal and your association of any evidence you have.
• Discrimination
According to state and federal law, your employer can't discriminate against you on the basis of race, age, sex, national origin, religion or color. Notify your association if you suspect any violations.
• Reprimands and Suspensions
If you get a verbal or written warning or reprimand or you're suspended or dismissed, contact your association immediately whether you're guilty or not. You only have a short time to challenge the discipline.
• Legal Representation
Through your association and your UniServ director, you can request representation for many job-related issues.
• Liability Protection
You are provided with a $1 million liability insurance policy for protection when you are criminally investigated, when criminal charges have been filed against you, or when a parent or student is suing you. These incidents must be job-related. Contact your association and UniServ director immediately.
• Sexual Misconduct
Sexually oriented contact between you and a minor child is illegal and can be grounds for dismissal. Complaints from parents or students should be reported to your association immediately.
• Worker's Compensation
Immediately report any job-related injury to your principal and to the association. Write down the important facts about how the injury happened.
• Evaluations
Contact your mentor and association right now if you are dealing with a less-than-glowing evaluation. The season for nonrenewal of probationary teachers is fast approaching. It's not too late to get help from your mentor or association. Let them know of any problems immediately.