A MESSAGE FROM MNEA PRESIDENT MICHELE SHERIFF

Greetings Mighty MNEA,

I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your hard work and dedication this first semester. I know returning to in-person teaching during a global pandemic has not been easy but in spite of the challenges, you have embodied "We Is Greater Than Me" and I am extremely proud of our accomplishments this year, including:

  • $50M from Mayor Cooper and Metro Council to correct certificated salary schedule

  • Step increases incorporated in MNPS "Continuity of Services" budget

  • Fully funded MNPS budget with additional funds for Advocacy Centers in all elementary schools, additional psychologists, and additional paid days for support staff

  • Mask mandate reinstated

  • COVID sick leave reinstated

  • Option to work remotely while isolated or quarantined due to COVID-19

  • Collected 1200 signatures in support of safe schools and sustainable working conditions

  • Cross-state coalition to influence funding formula (BEP)

  • Received a $75K NEA grant to promote community schools at four MNPS high schools

  • Visits at over 50% of MNPS schools

  • Hosted 8 member engagement events, 14 Chat with MNEA sessions, 8 listening sessions, and annual Town Hall with Dr. Battle

  • Over 2,100 MNEA members, representing 35% of MNPS educators - 11% increase in membership this semester!

  • FACs established in over 25% of MNPS work locations

  • In lieu of sub pay reinstated for counselors and instructional coaches

  • Active role in creating the 2021-22 calendar with MNEA members representing teachers on the Calendar Committee

  • Established a plan of action with the district to address MOU violations at specific work locations

  • MNEA member representation on MNEA-MNPS Compensation Committee

  • Negotiated full noninstructional day to complete online state and district trainings

  • Updated Memorandum of Understanding approved by the MNPS Board of Education

  1. Expanded planning time

  2. Standardized district Teacher of the Year process

  3. Faculty Advisor Committees (FACs) more clearly defined and supported by Dr. Battle

  4. Preparation time when transferred to new assignment after the first instructional day

  5. Secure, locked space for personal items

  6. Procedure for site based personnel files

  7. Established MNEA-MNPS Retention Committee

  8. Banned mandating use of personal devices for work

  9. Process for teachers to access School Based Budget funds to purchase instructional materials

  10. Guaranteed 3 hours of planning for each noninstructional day during the school year

  11. Free admission for all MNPS non-athletic events and non-tournament athletic events

  12. Additional use of sick days for bereavement leave and expanded bereavement leave beginning in 2022-23 school year

  13. Right to refuse covering classes during 180 minutes of individual, self-selected planning time

  14. Retro pay to the beginning of the school year for teachers achieving National Board Certification

  15. Guidance document posted by MNPS prior to July 1 stating how each noninstructional day in the upcoming school year will be utilized

These victories happened because through the most difficult times, you stood together to reclaim your power. Our membership has grown in large part because YOU asked your colleagues to join MNEA. More members = more power! Standing together shifts the power back to the workers. When we fight together, we win!

As we move into 2022, I don't even want to try to predict what might come next. As a union, we will continue to build organizer teams and support FACs at each school, fight for a salary schedule correction for support staff, strengthen community schools across the district, demand a say in how ESSER funds are spent, and more!

I hope you are getting some much needed rest during the break. I look forward to working with you in the new year.

In solidarity,

Michele Sheriff

MNEA President

Metropolitan Nashville Education Association