MEMORANDUM

Memo To:   All Buffalo Teachers

From:         Philip Rumore, President, BTF

Date:          August 3, 2021

Subject:     Updates

Negotiations
At our July 22, 2021 meeting with the mediator and District, we worked to clarify the tentative agreements we had made, asked and answered questions each side had and agreed to list ten proposals of minor financial impact. This was done in an attempt to clear discussions for the major financial issues – salary, benefits, etc.

The mediator and parties have agreed to meetings on August 19 and 24. Both sessions are to last most of the day.

We expect that the August 24, 2021 meeting will address salary and benefits.

Additional meetings will be scheduled at our August 19, 2021 meeting.

There is a commitment to come to an agreement quickly; however, obviously, we expect a contract that reflects your critical importance and dedication to our students.

We will not rush into an agreement to get it done. Stay Tuned.

Vaccine “Mandates”
You have no doubt read about the possibility of “mandating” vaccinations for teachers and we assume staff although they have not been singled out as have teachers.

While we have a taken no formal position, most of the teachers with whom I have spoken and who have corresponded with us, have expressed that having Districts require vaccinations of all staff is acceptable, if those who choose to not be vaccinated for reasons, such as medical, religious, etc. issues, have the ability to instead be tested, at no cost, at school (usually by the nurse).

School Security
The increase in gun violence has entered into our schools as you can see with the recent incidents involving “lockdowns”.

While there have been some concerns raised relating to the time it takes to find out what is occurring, we have been advised that once a “lockdown” has been initiated, the police/enforcement agencies are in charge, not the school or school district.

We will be seeking clarification on this and requesting that it be sent to all staff.
Obviously, we can take no chances.

When a security issue arises, please call BTF, (716) 881-5400.

School Calendar
There is a minor change to the school calendar. Regents starts on June 15, 2022, not June 14, 2022, as was printed. This does not change the number of days of teacher attendance, holidays, recess etc.

Calendar 1 (Click Here)

Calendar 2 – Corrected (Click Here)

Please stay well. Take no chances.