MEMORANDUM

Memo To:   All Buffalo Teachers

From:         Philip Rumore, President, BTF

Date:          October 6, 2021

Subject:     Updates

BTF Office/COVID
Thankfully, all but the person who tested positive at BTF have tested negative.

We are back at full strength.

Thank you for understanding.

Negotiations – Contract
We are in the process of working with NYSUT to evaluate the District’s salary compression calculations and its financial position. As mentioned previously, we are awaiting a copy of what is called the District’s ST-3, which is usually submitted by October 1st. This will enable us to prove that the District has the resources to provide Buffalo teachers with a superior contract – one that reflects your undiminished dedication and commitment to your students in these extraordinarily difficult times… nothing less!

Negotiations – Concurrent/Virtual Instruction
We will begin what is called “Impact Bargaining” with the District on October 29, 2021. “Impact Bargaining” gives unions the right to bargain the impact of some requirements imposed by an employer.

We will be opposing the use of concurrent/simultaneous instruction as well as seeking other protections and supports for any virtual instruction.

If you are providing concurrent/simultaneous instruction, please advise us (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) of the following:

Grade/Subject
Number of In-person Students
Number of Concurrent Students

It appears that most surrounding Districts are not instituting this damaging/anti-learning process.

Stay Tuned.

The Healthcare Workers’ Strike
First, thank you to those who, on very short notice, joined us on the Healthcare workers’ picket line on October 2, 2021.
The Healthcare workers are very appreciative of our support and our signs.

As authorized by the BTF Executive Committee, we made a five thousand ($5,000) donation to their solidarity fund, which was greatly appreciated (Click Here).

Our Healthcare colleagues have asked us to join them for their mass vigil where those present will circle the Hospital and have a moment of silence with some holding candles.

I know this not an easy time for all; however, if you can, they will appreciate your support.

WHEN: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2021
WHERE: MERCY HOSPITAL OF BUFFALO - 565 ABBOTT RD, BUFFALO 14220
TIME: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Yes, we will again have our signs, that you can keep for display and to take with you to your buildings or home. (Click Here)

In addition, we will be looking into seeking a Federal, State and County investigation of the financial arrangements of the Catholic Health “Executives” who are apparently making millions of dollars, while they provide no real direct service to save lives.

They make millions working in a non-profit organization.

Yes, “non-profit” for everyone but themselves.

We’ll see about that.

PR:su