Looking Ahead as We Wrap Up the Year

As we coast (or sprint) toward the end of the school year, it’s hard to believe how quickly the months have passed. Now, we find ourselves in one of the busiest—and most meaningful—times of the academic calendar. With final exams approaching, awards ceremonies taking place, and preparations underway for commencement and promotion events, the excitement in the air is palpable.

We look forward to acknowledging our remarkable retirees while also celebrating our new colleagues at our annual end-of-year induction event. These occasions remind us that, although the faces may change, our shared commitment to students and the community remains strong and profoundly impactful.

As Teacher Appreciation Week draws to a close, we take a moment to reflect on the invaluable work you do every day. Teaching has never been a simple job, and in today’s world, it demands even more of us—intellectually, emotionally, and personally. Thank you for showing up with commitment and care, even on the hardest days. Your leadership, in and out of the classroom, shapes lives in ways that often go unseen, but never unfelt.

This weekend also brings Mother’s Day, and we extend our warmest thanks to all the mothers and mother figures among us. Your ability to balance the demands of family, work, and community is nothing short of remarkable. We appreciate the strength, support, and heart you bring to every role you fill.

As we navigate these final weeks, take a moment to reflect on what you’ve achieved—not only with your students but also with each other. You have facilitated a year filled with growth, challenges, and success. Let’s finish strong, knowing that the impact we’ve made will resonate far beyond May.

Ralph Hernandez

alhambrateacherspresident@gmail.com

We’re proud to share that California Educator has spotlighted Javier Gutierrez for his role—alongside an incredible team—in creating safe, welcoming spaces for Alhambra students and families. In response to growing anti-immigrant rhetoric, they launched the Dream Center at Alhambra High, a vital hub supporting immigrant, LGBTQ+, unhoused, and disabled students. What began at one school has become a district-wide movement promoting unity, legal support, and civic engagement. Read the full story to see how collective action is making a lasting difference for students and families across the District.

The ATA has escalated a grievance concerning involuntary transfers to Level II. The ATA opposes the district's request to postpone the grievance for 30 days, as this delay would carry the matter beyond the end of the school year. The grievance arises from the recent announcement of upcoming involuntary transfers. According to the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), there are six specific reasons allowed for such transfers. The ATA argues that the district has not provided a valid justification based on these reasons and has neglected to consider significant factors in its decision-making process. The ATA believes it is essential to file the grievance now to prevent ongoing violations of the CBA, as waiting until after the transfers are implemented would make it more challenging to reverse any decisions. Stay tuned for updates.

Dear ATA,

My administrator informed me I must move classrooms for my new assignment next school year. Do I get compensated for this?

Overwhelmed

Dear Overwhelmed,

In the 2016-17 academic year, the ATA Bargaining Team negotiated a .5% increase to the salary schedule. This increase was specifically designed to compensate for any relocations within the site or to other sites. It's important to note that this increase was provided to all unit members, regardless of whether a relocation occurred. The aim was to recognize the challenges and efforts involved in such moves. Before this agreement, unit members were paid for up to three days (at the substitute rate) when a move was required. Embedding this increase within one's base salary improves our STRS DB (Defined Benefit) account versus our STRS DBS (Defined Benefit Supplement). For more on STRS DBA vs. DBS, click here.

Additionally, unit members are entitled to reasonable assistance in moving district property according to the ATA Contract, page 16, which states, " When relocation or transfer occurs, the unit member may request and shall be providedwith reasonable assistance to move district property such as, but not limited to: boxes, tape, and/or physical assistance with de-cluttering/disposal, packing, transporting, and unpacking."

ATA

I want to take a moment to acknowledge and address the concerns some of you have raised regarding potential reassignments. I understand that the possibility of being assigned to teach outside your area of expertise can create uncertainty. Please know that your concerns are valid, and we are listening.

As outlined in our contract, reassignments should not be made arbitrarily or without good reason. They should be based on programmatic needs and facility considerations. I believe our site administrators are working diligently to minimize disruption and ensure that such decisions are made thoughtfully, with consideration for your individual strengths as educators.

Each of you brings unique skills, experiences, and passion to your work. It is this diversity that makes our district strong, enriching our students' learning experiences.

If you receive a reassignment and have concerns, please remember you are not alone. You have the right to request a written justification for the decision. If the explanation does not resolve your concerns, you may request a meeting with your site administrator. If the issue remains unresolved, you can escalate the matter to the Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services or their designee. Throughout this process, you are entitled to union representation at every step—we are here to support you.

Furthermore, if you are reassigned, you should be provided with the appropriate resources, training, and support necessary for your success. No teacher should be expected to take on a new role without the tools they need to thrive, and we will work to ensure that this expectation is met.

Change can be challenging, but we remain committed to supporting you through it. Together, we will advocate for fairness, uphold professional standards, and prioritize student success.

I would like to share some valuable information for our teachers. This summer, the Center for Civic Education offers two professional development opportunities for elementary and middle school teachers, with all expenses covered. One event will be held in Monterey Bay, and the other will occur in Arizona. Feel free to share the flyers with your colleagues.

May 12

- Grievance (4:00 pm, ATA Office)

May 13

- Joint BOD and Rep Council (4:00 pm, ATA Office)

May 20

- Board of Education (6 pm, Marengo West)

The Alhambra Teachers Association (ATA) exists to protect and promote the well-being of its members; to improve the conditions of teaching and learning; to advance the cause of free, universal, and quality public education; to ensure that the human dignity and civil rights of all children and youth are protected; and to secure a more just equitable and democratic society.

Email: ataoffice3030@gmail.com
Website: www.alhambrateachers.org
Location: 3030 West Main Street, Alhambra, CA, USA
Phone: (626)289-1933
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlhambraTeachersAssociation/