1. Question: When should I file a grievance?

Answer: When an employer violates the collective bargaining agreement (CBA), applicable laws, or established past practices, and the issue hasn't been resolved by a direct discussion, it is time to start the grievance process.

2. Question: What do I have to do to file a grievance?

Answer: We must follow Article 5 of our Collective Bargaining Agreement. One important thing to remember is Article 5.2, which states: Before filing a formal written grievance, the grievant shall attempt to resolve the matter by means of an informal conference with his/her immediate supervisor. The immediate supervisor shall schedule a meeting with the grievant within three (3) days of the request for the meeting. 

3. Question: I am having some problems that may become a grievance. What advice do you have for me?

Answer: Document! Document! Document! Make a copy of, and start completing, this form if you think you may need to start the grievance process: Data collection document/grievance worksheet for NTA members

4. Question: Should I let me site rep know if I am going to grieve something?

Answer: YES! Let your site representative and the NTA President know if you are going to start the grievance process! 

5. Question: Are there certain forms I need to use to file a grievance?

Answer: Yes. Use the Level I Grievance Form to file Level I Grievances. In some cases, you will need to escalate to a Level II and complete a Level II Grievance Form.

6. Question: How can I find out the status of grievances that have been filed by members of NTA leadership?

Answer: Grievance updates and dates of deadlines are frequently posted on ur NTA Google Calendar.

1. Cal/OSHA: Work safety

   • It is best to file a complaint after having first had a conversation with the employer about your workplace safety concerns to see if they will remediate the unsafe conditions on their own.

   • NTA leadership has prepared a document to help with CalOSHA complaint filing: Newark Teachers Association - Cal/OSHA Complaint Form.

   • If you are comfortable with doing so, please inform the NTA President if you plan on filing a complaint with Cal/OSHA.

2. Williams Complaint:

   • A "Williams complaint can be filed when there are problems with "the three Ts": 

     • • Textbooks (e.g. there are not enough text books in a classroom)

       • Teachers (e.g. a class is being taught by a teacher that does not have the correct credential)

       • Toilets (e.g. there are health or safety concerns about school buildings, including restrooms)

   • NTA members can use the form posted on the district website to file a Williams complaint.

   • If you are comfortable with doing so, please inform the NTA President if you plan on filing a Williams Act Complaint.