Our thoughts and prayers are with those impacted by Hurricane Laura. Federation representatives have been reaching out to our members directly, but if you haven't heard from us yet please take a moment to review these relief resources compiled by AFT, https://www.aft.org/our-community/disaster-relief-emergency-preparedness/hurricane-preparedness-relief
We also want to take a moment to update you about last week's Monroe City School Board meeting. We will be working to bring you regular updates from the School Board meetings throughout the school year:
The day before students were scheduled to return to the classroom, the Monroe City School Board conducted their regular monthly meeting. There were two main topics discussed. They are as follows:
1. The discussion of the renaming of Robert E. Lee Jr. High School. In July, the School Board formed a committee of "school board representatives, parents, students and Lee Junior High staff" to determine alternative name options for Robert E. Lee Jr. High School. After much deliberation and input from community members, the committee finally presented its choices to the School Board. Despite protests from MFT President Sandie Lollie, the committee only presented one possible name.
All board members except 3, (Haneline, Neal & Wilson) were very disturbed that they were only brought one name to consider instead of the top three choices. Board president, Betty Cooper, wanted to send it back to the committee and requested the top three choices be brought to them for consideration. Vice President Johnson motioned to send to Facility Committee. This was passed by a vote of 4-2 being one member, Haneline, was gone.
2. During the board members reports Brandon Johnson stated he had no report but questions for the superintendent. Brandon asked Dr. Vidrine several questions:
- Do you think we are really ready for school to open?
- I understand that we will open schools, but do you realize that some schools do not have webcams available on campus?
- How will we open when we don’t have hot water in some schools?
- How will we open when we don’t have running water in all bathrooms?
- Why are staff having to use their own funds to purchase cleaning items for their rooms?
Mr. Johnson requested that Dr. Vidrine visits school with him on Wednesday to see what was needed and who did not have what materials.
Dr. Vidrine stated that all schools were ready to open and everyone was provided the essential items needed.
Is your school ready to open? Do you and your students have all the supplies you need for safely teach and learn? If not, we want to hear from you. Please use this form to report any safety violations.
Sincerely,
Sandie Lollie
President
Monroe Federation of Teachers & School Employees
P.S. Moving forward, MFT will continue to update you about the important business of the Monroe City School Board. These public officials are accountable to you; their constituents. If you have any questions, please let us know. To sign up for these updates, please go to: http://la.aft.org/join-union/get-updates