Monday, April 26, 2010
Dear Parents,
We empathize with your desire to have your children back in their classrooms with their customary teachers. Such is our wish as well.
The CUSD negotiating team has been working with the CUEA negotiating team from last Thursday afternoon through Sunday evening. As I write this letter, negotiating teams are currently in session. I believe all parties are desirous of a resolution to the current strike. As dialogue continues at the table, both sides have agreed to remain confidential.
Meanwhile, CUSD’s priorities are to:
(a) Return our teachers and students to their classrooms as quickly as possible, where they can teach and learn together.
(b) Provide a safe and orderly environment at school at all times.
(c) Honor the needs and interests of all employee groups including classified workers (CSEA), Teamsters, and certificated and classified administrators.
(d) Ensure the ongoing fiscal viability of CUSD and submittal of a 3-year balanced budget, as required by county and state regulations.
(e) Ensure that student programs, services, and class sizes stay intact to the greatest extent possible.
(f) Preserve as many jobs as possible during these challenging economic times.
During this strike, teachers are being asked to make personal sacrifices, working parents are concerned about their family schedules, and all parents are concerned about the educational effects on their children. Students, themselves, are worried about needed instruction, preparation for important exams, and lost time with their teachers. CSEA members, Teamsters, and administrators are wondering what all this will mean for them and their families. Trustees are wrestling with the most difficult decisions ever considered in our now cash-strapped district.
These are complex and personally painful times for both public and private entities. However, an eternal optimist, I continue to be committed to resolving our local fiscal issues as expeditiously as possible for all stakeholders.
Most Sincerely,
Bobbi Mahler, Ed.D
Interim Superintendent
