Got questions regarding your contract? Come here for the answers.
View The Elmira Teachers Association Contract:
ETA Contract (.pdf)
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ETA Contract (.pdf)
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Contract Info Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I have to ask my principal before I take a personal day?
No, you are not required to ask permission, although as a professional courtesy, you may want to let your principal know that you will be out of the building and that you have called for a sub. You are required to complete the Personal Leave Form (Appendix W) of the contract. Between January 1st and June 30th, it is requested that notification for Personal leave shall be made to the principal at least two (2) school days in advance.
Why did my principal tell me I couldn't take a personal day?
You can only be refused a personal day if it is the work day immediately before or after a holiday or vacation period, or in conjunction with other absences to extend a holiday or vacation. If you were refused for another reason, please see a building rep.
How many days did I have to contribute to the Sick Leave Bank?
One day was collected from each ETA member. Members are not required to donate any additional days. This was a "one time only" donation.
Can I donate additional days to the Sick Leave Bank?
You can donate up to 20 days in any school year. If you are near retirement, please be aware that if you donate days, it might put you below the maximum personal illness leave cash-in of 200 days. You should also be aware that if you retire in the middle of a five year cycle of receiving 85 sick days, those days are prorated and credited only for the actual period of service.
Why didn't I even get an interview when I submitted a letter of interest for an opening in another school?
According to the contract, "either an interview for a vacancy will be granted, or if requested, a reason for not providing an interview will be provided to a unit member who has applied for the position." You can request a reason for not being provided an interview, but the District does not have to interview you.
I am a teacher already in the District. Why did they hire someone from outside the District for an opening that I applied for?
The contract gives the principals the right to assign personnel, "on the basis of qualifications, requirements of the position, preference, district needs, and unit member/district-wide seniority." This language allows for a great deal of latitude for principals to choose the candidate they feel will best fit their preference.