Join the Fun gather, October 30, 2025 at Elicit Brewing Company!
Join the Fun gather, October 30, 2025 at Elicit Brewing Company!
Embedded Files
October 23, 2025
Happy October!
As the school year is fully underway and we’ve settled into the rhythm of the fall semester, the Executive Council and I would like to reaffirm our core focus: you and your everyday experiences. We are committed to continuing essential communication with our Central Office staff to ensure that every building has the supportive, positive climate and culture you need to thrive. Our focus is on teacher retention and ensuring that we advocate for the needs of all our educators, whether you are a new professional or an experienced veteran.
We are especially excited to announce our new committee for Special Service providers and special education teachers. We look forward to having opening conversations with our educators to understand and effectively share the unique needs with Central Office staff.
The union's strength comes directly from your feedback. We need you and your voices to help make meaningful change and provide the support you deserve in your daily work. We will be coming to your schools for visits throughout the next month and look forward to hearing directly from you.
Please join us at Elicit Brewing Company next Thursday for some much-needed time to get together and catch up. We’re looking forward to connecting with all of you next week!
Please contact us at ridgefieldnea@ridgefieldnea.com if you have any questions throughout the year.
Mary Ellen & Executive Council
In this update:
Updates from NEA-Ridgefield
Special Education and Related Services Committee: Listen and Learn
Updates
NEA-R Social Event on 10/30
NEA-R Quick Links
Upcoming Events
News from the CEA
Legislative Info
Upcoming BOE Dates
Updates from the NEA-Ridgefield
In Collaboration with Liz Hannaway, we invite our Special Education and Related Services providers to join a virtual meeting on 11/5 @4p to learn more about the collaborative committee formed in our new contract to monitor caseloads and issues impacting Special Education and Related Service Providers. To learn more about the committee, or if you are interested in being involved, please join us virtually using the following link: meet.google.com/fbb-asgb-uxv. Any questions can be emailed to ridgefieldnea@ridgefieldnea.com or abrooksbank@ridgefieldps.net
The full 2025-2028 contract has been posted to the Ridgefield town website and can be downloaded/viewed HERE. NEA-R has also put together this overview document highlighting key aspects of our contract for 2025-28, including embedded links for salary schedules, etc. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concernsDo you have something you would like the NEA-R to share in our newsletter or on social media? Complete THIS form to submit it to us!
Reminders:
Through RPS we have an Employee Assistance Program which includes a variety of resources available to you, ranging from mental health support to information about insurance and retirement planning. More information can be found on the Personnel page.
Please continue to fill out the Communication Google Form and reach out to your building reps if you’re experiencing parent interactions outside of the norm. This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Please continue to fill out the Aggressive Incident form as well as the district form when appropriate.This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Observation Timeline:
For all teachers, goal setting meetings should be completed by October 31st, Mid-year conference by February 15th, and End of Year Conference should be completed by 5 days prior to the last day of school.
For untenured teachers, your first observation should occur by October 31
If you have not had your first observation(untenured) or Goal Setting meeting by October 31 please reach out and let us know.
Upcoming Events:
Th 10/30 @3:30p - NEA-R Get Together at Elicit RSVP HERE
W 11/5 @4p - Special Education and Related Services Committee: Listen and Learn
Tentative Legislator Listening Dates:
Pre-Session Meeting
W 12/10 @6:30p (virtual)
W 1/14 @6:30p (virtual)
Post-session Meeting
W 3/11 @6:30p (virtual)
W 3/18 @6:30p (virtual)
Quick Links from NEA-Ridgefield
Contract: 2025-28 Contract (Searchable).pdfContract Changes Overview: Contract Updates 2025-28.pdf
How to read your Contract: How to read your Contract
CT Paid Sick Leave: CT Paid Sick Leave 25/26
2025-26 Payroll Schedule: Payroll Schedule 2025-2026.pdf
2025-26 District Calendar: 2025-26 School Calendar approved 09-23-24.pdf
News from the CEA
**To gain access to the full CEA.org website you will need your CEA number**
Social Media Reminder
Be mindful of what you post on social media (even if the account is private) as there have been cases of accounts having screenshots taken and disseminated.
Discounts and Deals?
Have your CEA number ready and checkout the teacher discounts available to members!
CT Educator News
Interested in keeping up with Education related news? Check out CT Ed Watch
Legislative
We’re scheduling listening sessions with our elected representatives to ensure educators’ voices are heard before and after the upcoming legislative session in Hartford. Your legislative representative is currently coordinating with the CEA Political Engagement Coordinator to finalize dates, which we’ll share as soon as they’re confirmed with the officials’ offices.
Please make it a point to attend these online meetings. Our stories must shape the narrative of public education.
Tentative Dates
- Pre-Session Listening Session: Wednesday, December 10, or Wednesday, January 14, at 6:30 PM
- Post-Session Listening Session: Wednesday, March 11, or Wednesday, March 18, at 6:30 PM
These dates are chosen to avoid conflicts with afterschool events and to offer a convenient time between dinner and evening routines.
In the next newsletter, we’ll share more about member testimony opportunities once the legislative agenda is finalized. For examples of testimony, visit cea.org/testimony, where you can read submissions from members and staff alike.
The 2025–2026 legislative priorities have not yet been released, but we’ll keep you updated as soon as they are.
New Federal Law: the PUMP Act
Passed in the spring of 2023 as a part of the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Spending Bill, the PUMP Act expanded rights to nursing mothers to have the time and space needed to pump breastmilk at work. While this new law may only be relevant to a small portion of our membership, this law represents a major change to how the law extends rights to educators. Learn more about the PUMP Act from the Department of Labor HERE and an overview from WeAreTeachers.org HERE.
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September 26, September 26, 202525
September 26, 202
Now that we’re settling into our school routines, I want to remind you that your union is here for you. We know how many hats you wear in a single day—as teachers, mentors, colleagues, and so much more. Our goal is to support you, advocate for you, and help make sure you have the best working environment possible.
One of the best ways to stay connected is by joining your building’s Ten Minute Meetings. They’re a quick but meaningful chance to hear the latest updates, connect with your building reps, and share any questions or concerns. These conversations help us keep the lines of communication open—not just within our buildings, but also in our direct work with the central office.
Most importantly, let’s take time to celebrate one another and recognize the incredible work we do every day as a community of educators. We are looking forward to staying connected with you throughout the year and continuing to celebrate the strength and dedication of our colleagues.
Please contact us at ridgefieldnea@ridgefieldnea.com if you have any questions throughout the year.
Mary Ellen & Executive Council
In this update:
Updates from NEA-Ridgefield
NEA-R Quick Links
Upcoming Events
News from the CEA
Legislative Info
Upcoming BOE Dates
Updates from the NEA-Ridgefield
The full 2025-2028 contract has been posted to the Ridgefield town website and can be downloaded/viewed HERE. NEA-R has also put together this overview document highlighting key aspects of our contract for 2025-28, including embedded links for salary schedules, etc. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concernsDo you have something you would like the NEA-R to share in our newsletter or on social media? Complete THIS form to submit it to us!
Reminders:
Through RPS we have an Employee Assistance Program which includes a variety of resources available to you, ranging from mental health support to information about insurance and retirement planning. More information can be found on the Personnel page.
Please continue to fill out the Communication Google Form and reach out to your building reps if you’re experiencing parent interactions outside of the norm. This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Please continue to fill out the Aggressive Incident form as well as the district form when appropriate.This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Observation Timeline:
For all teachers, goal setting meetings should be completed by October 31st, Mid-year conference by February 15th, and End of Year Conference should be completed by 5 days prior to the last day of school.
For untenured teachers, your first observation should occur by October 31
If you have not had your first observation(untenured) or Goal Setting meeting by October 31 please reach out and let us know.
Upcoming Events:
9/30 @5p - CEA Virtual Fall County Forum, Register HERE (CEA Member Number needed)
10/15: CEA Virtual Retirement Workshop, Register HERE (CEA Member Number needed)
Quick Links from NEA-Ridgefield
Contract: 2025-28 Contract (Searchable).pdfContract Changes Overview: Contract Updates 2025-28.pdf
How to read your Contract: How to read your Contract
CT Paid Sick Leave: CT Paid Sick Leave 25/26
2025-26 Payroll Schedule: Payroll Schedule 2025-2026.pdf
2025-26 District Calendar: 2025-26 School Calendar approved 09-23-24.pdf
News from the CEA
**To gain access to the full CEA.org website you will need your CEA number**
Social Media Reminder
Be mindful of what you post on social media (even if the account is private) as there have been cases of accounts having screenshots taken and disseminated.
Discounts and Deals?
Have your CEA number ready and checkout the teacher discounts available to members!
CT Educator News
Interested in keeping up with Education related news? Check out CT Ed Watch
Legislative
As we move into the fall, much of our union’s energy is focused on the upcoming municipal elections and laying the groundwork for the next legislative session. These local races are critical because they determine the decision-makers who will shape education funding, municipal budgets, and community priorities. We encourage all members to stay engaged in their local political landscape and exercise their right to vote.
At the state level, the Legislative Commission is in the final stages of preparing our 2026 Legislative Agenda, which will be officially adopted by the Board of Directors in mid-October. Once finalized, we will have a clear roadmap for the initiatives we will be advocating for in the new year. In the meantime, our 2025 priorities continue to guide our efforts, and it’s important to recognize the progress and challenges that remain.
2025 Legislative Priorities: A Recap
2025 Legislative Priorities: A Recap
This past year, our agenda centered on four key areas:
Teacher Recruitment and Retention. We pressed for salary enhancements—including higher starting salaries and tiered adjustments across the scale—to ensure educators are compensated comparably to professionals with similar training. We also advanced fairness in the workplace, calling for a “just cause” standard of discipline for teachers. Additional efforts focused on expanding diversity scholarships for future educators and reducing financial barriers for aspiring teachers by lowering certification costs and eliminating edTPA fees.
Successful School Communities. We called for reduced caseloads in both special education and English learner services, smaller class sizes, and sustained funding for safe and healthy schools through HVAC repairs and indoor air quality standards.
Municipal Accountability. We proposed shifting from a minimum budget requirement (MBR) to a minimum expenditure requirement, ensuring funds are directly spent on education. We also advocated for ECS (Education Cost Sharing) payments to flow directly to school districts rather than through municipalities, and for caps on unallocated municipal funds.
Retirement Equity and Pension Security. Our priorities included updating cost-of-living adjustment statutes, increasing disability health subsidies, reforming Teachers’ Retirement Board elections, and maintaining full funding of annual contributions to reduce the unfunded liability.
These priorities will inform the foundation of our 2026 agenda, which we will roll out in October.
Key Dates Ahead
Key Dates Ahead
Looking forward, several important dates will shape our advocacy:
February 4, 2026 – Opening Day of the Legislative Session
February–March 2026 – Committee Public Hearings
Legislative Breakfast – February (final date forthcoming)
Lobby Day – Early April (exact date to be announced)
May 6, 2026 – Final Day of Legislative Session
Members should also be on the lookout for opportunities to participate in these events and amplify our collective voice at the Capitol.
Opportunities for Engagement
Opportunities for Engagement
On Tuesday, September 30, at 5:00 p.m., CEA will host its Virtual Fall County Forum. This is an excellent opportunity to hear directly from President Kate Dias, participate in county-level discussions, and elect representatives to the CEA PAC and other positions. Register now to ensure your voice is heard in shaping our union’s priorities. We will share out information learned at the forum in the next newsletter!
Additionally, the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE), in partnership with WestEd, is inviting special education teachers to share their perspectives through a new statewide survey. This initiative is designed to strengthen supports and improve outcomes for students with disabilities. The survey, which is anonymous and available in both English and Spanish, takes only 5–10 minutes to complete. Your feedback will directly inform recommendations to the Commissioner of Education. [https://westedk12enterprise.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_d43CSLpwnzoCab4]
How to Take Action
How to Take Action
The most powerful advocacy comes from members. To stay connected, informed, and engaged, visit cea.org/take-action for resources and opportunities to make your voice count.
Together, we are building momentum toward a stronger profession, better schools, and fair treatment for all educators. Thank you for continuing to stand with your colleagues and students as we head into another pivotal legislative year.
New Federal Law: the PUMP Act
Passed in the spring of 2023 as a part of the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Spending Bill, the PUMP Act expanded rights to nursing mothers to have the time and space needed to pump breastmilk at work. While this new law may only be relevant to a small portion of our membership, this law represents a major change to how the law extends rights to educators. Learn more about the PUMP Act from the Department of Labor HERE and an overview from WeAreTeachers.org HERE.
Upcoming BOE Meeting Dates
OCTOBER: 10/14, 10/27
NOVEMBER: 11/10, 11/24
DECEMBER: 12/8
JANUARY: 1/12, 1/24, 1/26
FEBRUARY: 2/9, 2/23
MARCH: 3/9, 3/24
APRIL: 4/13, 4/27
MAY: 5/11
AUG 2025
SPECIAL EDITION: ZOOM CONTRACT REFRESHER AND CT PAID SICK LEAVE CLARIFICATION
August 28, 2025
In this update:
Zoom: New Contract Refresher
Updates from NEA-Ridgefield - CT Paid Sick Leave
Quick Links from NEA-Ridgefield
Updates from the NEA-Ridgefield
Zoom Meeting: New Contract Refresher
On Tuesday September 9, 2025 at 4:30pm NEA-Ridgefield will be hosting an information meeting to review some of the key elements of our new contract that is in place from 2025-2028. All members are invited to join using the Zoom link and passcode below.
Link: https://cea-org.zoom.us/j/82619358712?pwd=be0eH1d34FHEHaueT2elcoTg43hmMf.1&from=addon
Meeting ID: 826 1935 8712
Passcode: 896855
On Wednesday 8/27 the district sent out clarification about taking leave in accordance with the CT Paid Sick Leave Law. Per the email from Karen Dewing, “A new drop down title “CT Paid Sick Leave” has been added to Frontline AESOP. Under this agreement, we have also agreed that use of CT Paid Sick Leave will not be applied to the 7 family ill days in AESOP. Rather use of CT Paid Sick Leave will only be deducted from a teachers’ total sick time and can be used at any time.”
You will be able to monitor your used of CT Paid Leave days in AESOP. Once all seven have been used please be diligent in making sure that any remaining absences taken are coded in alignment with the reason for the sick day (Sick Day - Illness Self, Sick Day - Medical Appt, Sick Day - Ill/med - Family, etc). I have included screenshots below of where you can find the absence balance reason, as well as what the code looks like in the dropdown.
Linked HERE is the document that was emailed out to staff on Wednesday with additional information from the district, and if you have any follow up questions please reach out to us directly at ridgefieldnea@ridgefieldnea.com.
What to select
Where to find your Absence Balance:
Quick Links from NEA-Ridgefield
Contract: 2025-28 Contract (Searchable).pdfContract Changes Overview: Contract Updates 2025-28.pdf
How to read your Contract: How to read your Contract
2025-26 Payroll Schedule: Payroll Schedule 2025-2026.pdf
2025-26 District Calendar: 2025-26 School Calendar approved 09-23-24.pdf
If you are no longer employed by the district and wish to be removed from this mailing list please reply to this email!
For more information, go to our
NEA-R website and cea.org
May 23,2025
y 23 , 2025
We are one step closer to summer as we begin the Memorial Day weekend but before that, we have our final month of learning, celebrations and planning for next year. The school budget has passed for the next school year and we look forward to continuing our planning for next year to ensure the best possible teaching conditions for all our educators. We are looking forward to celebrating our retirees and their years in education and sharing our accomplishments together at our annual meeting. We look forward to seeing you at each of these events. We continue to be stronger together.
Please contact us at ridgefieldnea@ridgefieldnea.com if you have any questions throughout the year.
Mary Ellen & Executive Council
In this update:
Updates from NEA-Ridgefield
Upcoming Events
News from the CEA
Legislative Info
Upcoming BOE Dates
Updates from the NEA-Ridgefield
Contracts for the 2025-26 School Year will be posted to the Employee Portal in the upcoming weeks. Please be sure to check that your column, row, and pay are correct. NEA-R will send an email with more in-depth information on what you should check as we get closer to the end of the year.A joint communication between the Business Office and NEA-Ridgefield will be sent out re: dues on 5/23. If you have any questions please email us and we are happy to follow up.
The full 2025-2028 contract has been posted to the Ridgefield town website and can be downloaded/viewed HERE. NEA-R has also put together this overview document highlighting key aspects of our contract for 2025-28, including embedded links for salary schedules, etc. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns
Do you have something you would like the NEA-R to share in our newsletter or on social media? Complete THIS form to submit it to us!
Observation Timeline:
EOY meeting should take place by 6/10 (or 6/11 if at RHS).
At this point no staff members should have any observations remaining , unless you have had a conversation with your administrator agreeing to a later date.
If you have not had your observations by then, and do not have a midyear meeting scheduled at that point please reach out and let us know so we can advocate with CO for fidelity in the evaluation system!
Reminders:
Through RPS we have an Employee Assistance Program which includes a variety of resources available to you, ranging from mental health support to information about insurance and retirement planning. More information can be found on the Personnel page.
Please continue to fill out the Communication Google Form and reach out to your building reps if you’re experiencing parent interactions outside of the norm. This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Please continue to fill out the Aggressive Incident form as well as the district form when appropriate.This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Upcoming Events:
5/28 - NEA-R Retirement Celebration at Gallo
5/29 - NEA-R General Membership Meeting: VIRTUAL (link will be emailed week of 5/26)
News from the CEA
**To gain access to the full CEA.org website you will need your CEA number**
Legislative Priorities: An Eye towards supporting our Special Education Community
The CEA has released their legislative priorities for the 2025 session. Included in those priorities is to reduce or cap caseloads for special education teachers and paraeducators at the state level.
Discounts and Deals?
Have your CEA number ready and check out the teacher discounts available to members!
CT Educator News
Interested in keeping up with Education related news? Check out CT Ed Watch
Legislative
This year’s back home meeting is postponed indefinitely. Despite ongoing efforts by your NEA-R representative and CEA to schedule a meeting, our elected officials have been unavailable due to the demands of the current legislative session. We appreciate their work and hope to meet with them soon.
Join educators from across Connecticut on Monday, July 7, at Mohegan Sun for the Empowered to Lead Symposium, hosted by the Connecticut Teacher of the Year Council. This year’s theme—The Power of Partnerships—celebrates what happens when educators team up. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., dive into interactive sessions, swap ideas, and recharge your professional batteries. Featured speakers include 2025 Connecticut Teacher of the Year Julia Miller and Beth Regan, “Morning Deer,” Chairwoman and Justice of the Mohegan Tribal Council of Elders. Come connect, collaborate, and leave ready to lead.
The Senate passed SB 1371—Connecticut’s “Just Cause” bill—giving teachers basic workplace protections. Now it is up to the House. This bill ensures fair, consistent discipline and removes politics from termination decisions. Tell your representative: support SB 1371 and stand up for fairness, clarity, and dignity for all educators. Learn more here!
New Federal Law: the PUMP Act
Passed in the spring of 2023 as a part of the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Spending Bill, the PUMP Act expanded rights to nursing mothers to have the time and space needed to pump breastmilk at work. While this new law may only be relevant to a small portion of our membership, this law represents a major change to how the law extends rights to educators. Learn more about the PUMP Act from the Department of Labor HERE and an overview from WeAreTeachers.org HERE.
Upcoming Dates
MAY BOE MEETINGS: 5/27
arch 3 , 2025
3/28/25
Spring is slowly making an appearance and I hope the next few weeks bring us sunny skies and warmer weather. With all the unknown changes with the Department of Education and educational funding, it may leave educators feeling unsettled. We will keep you updated on opportunities to engage in advocacy and show your support for our schools, our profession and our students. At this time, we are staying focused on the work we do here in Ridgefield and in the state of Connecticut. We are currently awaiting the Board of Finance decisions on our budget and the impact it will have on RPS. We will be sure to keep you updated should any possible budget changes affect our classroom. We will continue to provide updates through your building reps and the newsletter to keep you informed.
We are listening to your concerns and continue to advocate for you in our meetings with Central Office staff. Please contact us at ridgefieldnea@ridgefieldnea.com if you have any questions throughout the year.
Mary Ellen & Executive Council
In this update:
Updates from NEA-Ridgefield
Upcoming Events
News from the CEA
Legislative Info
RPS Budget Process
Upcoming BOE Dates
Updates from the NEA-Ridgefield
LOOKING FOR PRESENTERS! The NEA-R is looking to start a new program connecting members who have expertise or knowledge on a topic with members who would like to learn more. If you would be interested in leading a short session please fill out this FORM.
The full 2025-2028 contract has been posted to the Ridgefield town website and can be downloaded/viewed HERE. NEA-R has also put together this overview document highlighting key aspects of our contract for 2025-28, including embedded links for salary schedules, etc. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns
Do you have something you would like the NEA-R to share in our newsletter or on social media? Complete THIS form to submit it to us!
Reminders:
Per our existing school safety protocol no staff should be allowing people directly into the building. All members of the community must enter through the designated entrance and check in through security. Additionally, due to FERPA regulations staff are not allowed to disclose any student information, including any questions related to student enrollment. Staff should reach out directly to their administration if someone is not following the designated school security protocol for entry into the school building, or if they are being asked for information about a student by someone who is not their parent, guardian, or other authorized caregiver.
Through RPS we have an Employee Assistance Program which includes a variety of resources available to you, ranging from mental health support to information about insurance and retirement planning. More information can be found on the Personnel page.
Please continue to fill out the Communication Google Form and reach out to your building reps if you’re experiencing parent interactions outside of the norm. This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Please continue to fill out the Aggressive Incident form as well as the district form when appropriate.This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Observation Timeline:
You should have your first observation as well as your midyear meeting scheduled by 1/15. If you have not had your first observation by then, and do not have a midyear meeting scheduled at that point please reach out and let us know.
As this is our first year navigating the new system please let us know if you have any questions or encounter any challenges along the way!
NEA-R School Spirit Day 3/19:
News from the CEA
**To gain access to the full CEA.org website you will need your CEA number**
Teacher, Beware
Deceptive schemes targeting teachers often involve offers resembling checks or rebates, which ask for personal information and a signature. These offers, produced by groups aiming to weaken unions, are designed to trick members into unknowingly resigning from their union and forfeiting its benefits. Experts warn that such scams are common, especially during the spring and summer, and advise teachers to contact union representatives if they receive suspicious offers. More information from the CEA can be found HERE.
Legislative Priorities: An Eye towards supporting our Special Education Community
The CEA has released their legislative priorities for the 2025 session. Included in those priorities is to reduce or cap caseloads for special education teachers and paraeducators at the state level.
Discounts and Deals?
Have your CEA number ready and check out the teacher discounts available to members!
CT Educator News
Interested in keeping up with Education related news? Check out CT Ed Watch
Legislative
In the Connecticut legislature, the Education Committee advanced SB 1459, which sets a minimum teacher salary of $63,450 in 2025 and provides state funding for raises, moving it to Appropriations. CEA President Kate Dias urged educators to advocate for its passage. With a teacher shortage worsening, lawmakers stressed the need to attract and retain qualified professionals. Both bills now await further action in the Appropriations Committee.
From CEA: "Enhance your leadership skills, dive into discussions on equity and inclusion, and connect with your colleagues at CEA’s Summit on Diversity on Saturday, March 29, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Amarante’s Sea Cliff in New Haven." Register here.
We are currently working with CEA's Political Engagement Coordinator to schedule a legislative listening session with our elected representation. We will be sharing the date shortly and hope that you will attend to make your voice heard. In the meantime if there are any bills you would like to lend your voice to, please email us at ridgefieldnea@ridgefieldnea.com
Here is the Video Statement from CEA President Kate Dias on President Trump’s Executive Order to Dismantle the U.S. Department of Education
New Federal Law: the PUMP Act
Passed in the spring of 2023 as a part of the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Spending Bill, the PUMP Act expanded rights to nursing mothers to have the time and space needed to pump breastmilk at work. While this new law may only be relevant to a small portion of our membership, this law represents a major change to how the law extends rights to educators. Learn more about the PUMP Act from the Department of Labor HERE and an overview from WeAreTeachers.org HERE.
RPS Budget Progress
Original proposal 4.8% increase, BOS recommendation to BOF for 3.89% increase
Key Elements:
Goals:
Continue to expand and grow our current programs
Respond to feedback and study
Repurpose positions and other budget savings to support growth and initiatives
Highlight the facility needs-in and out of operating budget
New Additions:
Addressing enrollment shifts
Expanding the Elementary World Language Programming
Creating an Academic and Intellectually Gifted Program with a Coordinator
Responding to Middle School needs in Special Education and social emotional wellness
Better supporting of the Arts, English Language Learners and Related Services with Lead Facilitators
Budget Question Answers can be found HERE
Full budget book and presentations can be found on the District’s budget page
General Timeline
3/31-4/3 BOF Budget Deliberations
4/3 BOF agrees on budget
5/5 Annual Town Budget Meeting
5/13 Referendum date set at Town Meeting (if needed)
Upcoming Dates
APRIL BOE MEETINGS: 4/7, 4/28
MAY BOE MEETINGS: 5/5, 5/12, 5/27
For more information, go to our
NEA-R website and cea.org
March 3 ,
Greeting members,
Hoping everyone had a restful and restorative vacation week. Now for the March stretch where hopefully warmer days will arrive sooner rather than later!
The budget conversations have been active and everchanging. Dr. Da Silva requested a 4.4% budget increase, BOE approved a 4.24% budget and BOS ended with a suggested 3.89% budget. As Central Office staff prepare to present the budget at BOF, we have discussed with Dr. DaSilva that we do not want any cuts to affect our classrooms. Knowing the work you undertake each day and the daily challenges you face, we will be actively watching these conversations and advocating for our members throughout the process. The town referendum for new roofs at many of our schools was approved this week, along with the new AHS/18-21 Program building.
With the many concerns about the state of public education and our current government, CEA is asking us all to wear RED on March 4th to show support for public education. Share your photos of our members wearing their Red for Ed with us. As always, we are stronger together.
Please contact us at ridgefieldnea@ridgefieldnea.com if you have any questions throughout the year.
Mary Ellen & Executive Council
In this update:
Updates from NEA-Ridgefield
Upcoming Events
News from the CEA
Legislative Info
RPS Budget Process
Upcoming BOE Dates
Updates from the NEA-Ridgefield
LOOKING FOR PRESENTERS! The NEA-R is looking to start a new program connecting members who have expertise or knowledge on a topic with members who would like to learn more. If you would be interested in leading a short session please fill out this FORM.The full 2025-2028 contract has been posted to the Ridgefield town website and can be downloaded/viewed HERE. NEA-R has also put together this overview document highlighting key aspects of our contract for 2025-28, including embedded links for salary schedules, etc. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns
Do you have something you would like the NEA-R to share in our newsletter or on social media? Complete THIS form to submit it to us!
Reminders:
Per our existing school safety protocol no staff should be allowing people directly into the building. All members of the community must enter through the designated entrance and check in through security. Additionally, due to FERPA regulations staff are not allowed to disclose any student information, including any questions related to student enrollment. Staff should reach out directly to their administration if someone is not following the designated school security protocol for entry into the school building, or if they are being asked for information about a student by someone who is not their parent, guardian, or other authorized caregiver.
Through RPS we have an Employee Assistance Program which includes a variety of resources available to you, ranging from mental health support to information about insurance and retirement planning. More information can be found on the Personnel page.
Please continue to fill out the Communication Google Form and reach out to your building reps if you’re experiencing parent interactions outside of the norm. This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Please continue to fill out the Aggressive Incident form as well as the district form when appropriate.This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Observation Timeline:
You should have your first observation as well as your midyear meeting scheduled by 1/15. If you have not had your first observation by then, and do not have a midyear meeting scheduled at that point please reach out and let us know.
As this is our first year navigating the new system please let us know if you have any questions or encounter any challenges along the way!
Upcoming Events:
3/4 - CEA Red for Ed Across the State day
3/22 8:30a-2p Early Career Educator Conference: Learn more and sign up HERE
News from the CEA
**To gain access to the full CEA.org website you will need your CEA number**
Teacher, Beware
Deceptive schemes targeting teachers often involve offers resembling checks or rebates, which ask for personal information and a signature. These offers, produced by groups aiming to weaken unions, are designed to trick members into unknowingly resigning from their union and forfeiting its benefits. Experts warn that such scams are common, especially during the spring and summer, and advise teachers to contact union representatives if they receive suspicious offers. More information from the CEA can be found HERE.
CEA Guidance on ICE/Customs Enforcement
The CEA has put together some resources to help teachers who have questions about dealing with ICE/Customs Enforcement. Their resources can be found HERE.
Legislative Priorities: An Eye towards supporting our Special Education Community
The CEA has released their legislative priorities for the 2025 session. Included in those priorities is to reduce or cap caseloads for special education teachers and paraeducators at the state level.
Discounts and Deals?
Have your CEA number ready and check out the teacher discounts available to members!
CT Educator News
Interested in keeping up with Education related news? Check out CT Ed Watch
Legislative
On Tuesday, 4 March 2025, CEA is calling on all educators in Connecticut to wear red to draw attention to the urgent need for investments in education. Please break out that red shirt in solidarity with other educators across the state!
CEA recently published an article titled, "The Real Deal: What Federal Funding Cuts Would Look Like." With numerous uncertainties surrounding the future of federal funding for education, please take a look at the very real potential outcomes should federal funding substantially reduce--or disappear entirely.
This coming Tuesday, 4 March 2025 from 4-5:30 PM, CEA is hosting a webinar about the complexities of special education and addressing challenging student behaviors. What does the law say about your rights? What do you need to know in order to advocate for yourself and for your students? Click here to learn more.
New Federal Law: the PUMP Act
Passed in the spring of 2023 as a part of the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Spending Bill, the PUMP Act expanded rights to nursing mothers to have the time and space needed to pump breastmilk at work. While this new law may only be relevant to a small portion of our membership, this law represents a major change to how the law extends rights to educators. Learn more about the PUMP Act from the Department of Labor HERE and an overview from WeAreTeachers.org HERE.
RPS Budget Progress
Original proposal 4.8% increase, BOS recommendation to BOF for 3.89% increase
Key Elements:
Goals:
Continue to expand and grow our current programs
Respond to feedback and study
Repurpose positions and other budget savings to support growth and initiatives
Highlight the facility needs-in and out of operating budget
New Additions:
Addressing enrollment shifts
Expanding the Elementary World Language Programming
Creating an Academic and Intellectually Gifted Program with a Coordinator
Responding to Middle School needs in Special Education and social emotional wellness
Better supporting of the Arts, English Language Learners and Related Services with Lead Facilitators
Budget Question Answers can be found HERE
Full budget book and presentations can be found on the District’s budget page
General Timeline
TBD Budget Proposals Published
3/24 BOF Public Hearing
3/31-4/3 BOF Budget Deliberations
4/3 BOF agrees on budget
5/5 Annual Town Budget Meeting
5/13 Referendum date set at Town Meeting (if needed)
Upcoming Dates
MARCH BOE MEETINGS: 3/10, 3/24
APRIL BOE MEETINGS: 4/7, 4/28
MAY BOE MEETINGS: 5/5, 5/12, 5/27
For more information, go to our
NEA-R website and cea.o
Jan. 2025
Welcome back, educators! We hope your winter break was restful and rejuvenating, giving you the chance to recharge and reflect. As we begin the new year, we look forward to the opportunities ahead and the continued work of supporting our students and each other. The start of a new year is a chance to reflect on the progress we've made and the goals we have for the months to come. Let’s stay focused on our shared commitment to fostering positive, engaging learning environments and supporting one another in the work we do. Here's to a year filled with growth, collaboration, and moments of success—both big and small. We’ve got this!
As always, the union is here to support you. If you have any questions or concerns about your school, workload, or anything else related to your work as an educator, don’t hesitate to reach out. We're here to provide guidance, answer your questions, and ensure you have the resources you need. Additionally, the CEA offers a range of broader supports, from professional development opportunities to advocacy on larger issues affecting education. Remember, you’re not alone—we’re all stronger together.
Please contact us at ridgefieldnea@ridgefieldnea.com if you have any questions throughout the year.
Mary Ellen & Executive Council
In this update:
Updates from NEA-Ridgefield
Upcoming Events
News from the CEA
Legislative Info
RPS Budget Process
Upcoming BOE Dates
Updates from the NEA-Ridgefield
The full 2025-2028 contract has been posted to the Ridgefield town website and can be downloaded/viewed HERE. NEA-R has also put together this overview document highlighting key aspects of our contract for 2025-28, including embedded links for salary schedules, etc. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns
Do you have something you would like the NEA-R to share in our newsletter or on social media? Complete THIS form to submit it to us!
Reminders:
Per our existing school safety protocol no staff should be allowing people directly into the building. All members of the community must enter through the designated entrance and check in through security. Additionally, due to FERPA regulations staff are not allowed to disclose any student information, including any questions related to student enrollment. Staff should reach out directly to their administration if someone is not following the designated school security protocol for entry into the school building, or if they are being asked for information about a student by someone who is not their parent, guardian, or other authorized caregiver.
Through RPS we have an Employee Assistance Program which includes a variety of resources available to you, ranging from mental health support to information about insurance and retirement planning. More information can be found on the Personnel page.
Please continue to fill out the Communication Google Form and reach out to your building reps if you’re experiencing parent interactions outside of the norm. This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Please continue to fill out the Aggressive Incident form as well as the district form when appropriate.This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Observation Timeline:
You should have your first observation as well as your midyear meeting scheduled by 1/15. If you have not had your first observation by then, and do not have a midyear meeting scheduled at that point please reach out and let us know.
As this is our first year navigating the new system please let us know if you have any questions or encounter any challenges along the way!
Upcoming Events:
2/8 9a-12p: CEA Breakfast with your Legislators: Learn more and sign up HERE
3/22 8:30a-2p Early Career Educator Conference: Learn more and sign up HERE
News from the CEA
**To gain access to the full CEA.org website you will need your CEA number**
CEA Guidance on ICE/Customs Enforcement
The CEA has put together some resources to help teachers who have questions about dealing with ICE/Customs Enforcement. Their resources can be found HERE.
Legislative Priorities: An Eye towards supporting our Special Education Community
The CEA has released their legislative priorities for the 2025 session. Included in those priorities is to reduce or cap caseloads for special education teachers and paraeducators at the state level.
Discounts and Deals?
Have your CEA number ready and checkout the teacher discounts available to members!
CT Educator News
Interested in keeping up with Education related news? Check out CT Ed Watch
Legislative
Advocate with our Legislators
Please be on the lookout for information from the NEA-R about holding a legislative listening session in the weeks to come. These sessions provide members with the opportunity to speak directly with their elected officials about our experiences in the classroom. We would like what we do every day in support of our students to be the stories that permeate the halls in Hartford and directly influence policymakers, only a few of them having actually served as a teacher. Please consider joining this important work.
Additionally, on Saturday 2/8 there is the opportunity to meet with legislators from across the state and share their concerns, learn more and sign up HERE
New Federal Law: the PUMP Act
Passed in the spring of 2023 as a part of the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Spending Bill, the PUMP Act expanded rights to nursing mothers to have the time and space needed to pump breastmilk at work. While this new law may only be relevant to a small portion of our membership, this law represents a major change to how the law extends rights to educators. Learn more about the PUMP Act from the Department of Labor HERE and an overview from WeAreTeachers.org HERE.
RPS Budget Progress
Proposed 4.8% Increase
Key Elements:
Goals:
Continue to expand and grow our current programs
Respond to feedback and study
Repurpose positions and other budget savings to support growth and initiatives
Highlight the facility needs-in and out of operating budget
New Additions:
Addressing enrollment shifts
Expanding the Elementary World Language Programming
Creating an Academic and Intellectually Gifted Program with a Coordinator
Responding to Middle School needs in Special Education and social emotional wellness
Better supporting of the Arts, English Language Learners and Related Services with Lead Facilitators
Budget Question Answers can be found HERE
Full budget book and presentations can be found on the District’s budget page
General Timeline
1/16 @7p Superintendent Presentation - BOE
1/25 @8:30a Full Day Budget Workshop - Zoom
2/1@10a BOE Public Hearing - ERMS Auditorium
2/10 @7p BOE Public Hearing, Possible BOE Vote - BOE
2/24 @7p BOE Possible Vote - BOE
2/26 BOE Budget submitted to BOF
2/27-3/5 BOS review of BOE Budget and Capital
TBD Budget Proposals Published
3/24 BOF Public Hearing
3/31-4/3 BOF Budget Deliberations
4/3 BOF agrees on budget
5/5 Annual Town Budget Meeting
5/13 Referendum date set at Town Meeting (if needed)
Upcoming Dates
FEBRUARY BOE MEETINGS: 2/10, 2/24
MARCH BOE MEETINGS: 3/10, 3/24
APRIL BOE MEETINGS: 4/7, 4/28
MAY BOE MEETINGS: 5/5, 5/12, 5/27
ecember 19, 2024
12/19/2024
Happy Holidays to everyone!
We hope the vacation week brings peace, joy and happiness.
As we end the calendar year, we just want to say thank you for all that you do each day.
We have had many accomplishments this year, most especially ratifying our new contract, but we know our work is never done.
While much of our work is done behind the scenes, we are consistently listening to you and advocating for you through our many conversations with leadership. We look forward to visiting you in each of our buildings in the new year to connect about your concerns and viewpoints to help us represent all of you in the best way we can. We are happy to support you in any way we can.
Please contact us at ridgefieldnea@ridgefieldnea.com if you have any questions throughout the year. We hope that you enjoy the holiday vacation with your families and friends.
Mary Ellen & Executive Council
In this update:
Updates from NEA-Ridgefield
Upcoming Events
News from the CEA
Legislative Info
Upcoming BOE Dates
Updates from the NEA-Ridgefield
Thank you again to everyone who attended the ratification meeting. HERE is an overview document highlighting key aspects of our contract for 2025-28, including embedded links for salary schedules, etc. The contract has been ratified by our membership and the Board of Education, and is currently with the Board of Finance. Once it has been signed by the BOF we will send out the completed contract to our membership! Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns
Do you have something you would like the NEA-R to share in our newsletter or on social media? Complete THIS form to submit it to us!
Reminders:
Through RPS we have an Employee Assistance Program which includes a variety of resources available to you, ranging from mental health support to information about insurance and retirement planning. More information can be found on the Personnel page.
Please continue to fill out the Communication Google Form and reach out to your building reps if you’re experiencing parent interactions outside of the norm. This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Please continue to fill out the Aggressive Incident form as well as the district form when appropriate.This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Observation Timeline:
You should have your first observation as well as your midyear meeting scheduled by 1/15. If you have not had your first observation by then, and do not have a midyear meeting scheduled at that point please reach out and let us know.
As this is our first year navigating the new system please let us know if you have any questions or encounter any challenges along the way!
Upcoming Events:
1/6 - CEA Webinar re: Teacher’s rights; sign up on CEA.org
News from the CEA
**To gain access to the full CEA.org website you will need your CEA number**
CEA Legal Services: If you need a lawyer for personal reasons (ie will, real estate, etc) the CEA offers a selection of vetted professionals at a discounted rate. More information can be found HERE with your CEA number!
Results of the October CEA Survey are in: Stressful, underfunded, and urgent need.
A recent survey of over 5,000 educators in Connecticut reveals that stress and burnout are the top concerns among teachers, with 98% reporting frustration and exhaustion. Educators cited several key factors contributing to these challenges, including low salaries, student discipline issues, lack of respect for the profession, and decisions made by politicians or non-educators that affect classrooms. State leaders, such as CEA President Kate Dias, emphasized the positive impact that proper investment in education, including competitive wages and adequate staffing, could have on the state's economy, workforce, and educational outcomes.
The survey also highlighted the significant personal toll these issues are taking on both current and future teachers. Aspiring educator Asya Kerr, a senior at Mitchell College, described the challenges of student teaching without compensation, noting the time it demands at the cost of family life. Even once she becomes a certified teacher, Kerr anticipates struggling to support her family due to low pay, which is a common concern shared by many in the profession. Other teachers, such as Bridgeport Education Association President Jeff Morrissey, spoke about the difficulty of balancing teaching with multiple jobs to make ends meet, further exacerbating teacher shortages in critical areas like special education, math, and science.
Despite the challenges, educators remain committed to their profession and are calling for systemic changes to improve conditions. The Connecticut Education Association (CEA) is advocating for a statewide minimum starting salary for teachers and increased funding to support salary increases. They argue that investing in public education is essential to creating a thriving, equitable educational system and attracting and retaining the best educators. CEA leaders are working with lawmakers to address teacher burnout, stress, and low wages, aiming to make teaching a sustainable and fulfilling career for future generations. Complete survey results can be found HERE.
Discounts and Deals?
Have your CEA number ready and checkout the teacher discounts available to members!
CT Educator News
Interested in keeping up with Education related news? Check out CT Ed Watch
Legislative
Having passed the House, the Bill to repeal WEP/GPO is likely to be called to the floor of the Senate for a vote as early as Wednesday, 17 December, by Majority Leader, Senator Chuck Schumer. Although there is strong momentum behind the repeal, there are still some national voices calling for it to remain in place. Thanks to all members who have reached out to their elected federal representation and made their voices heard. Repeal the Steal! Repeal WEP/GPO!
Please be on the lookout for communication in the New Year about another listening session with our local elected representatives. We want EDUCATOR voices and EDUCATOR stories to be the stories told on the Assembly floor in Hartford as decisions about us and our work make their way through the legislature.
From CEA:
As a teacher, understanding your rights is essential—not just for your success in the classroom but also for your role within the school community. Without this knowledge, you risk facing challenges or repercussions that could impact your professional reputation and even your livelihood.
To empower educators like you, we’re offering a free webinar for CEA members. This session will focus on
Understanding your protections as a teacher.
Navigating restrictions on free speech for educators and learning what you can and cannot say under the law.
Advocating for change and how you can join CEA this legislative session to strengthen teachers’ rights and expand free speech safeguards.
Register for this webinar to gain valuable insights and understanding of your free speech rights both in and out of the classroom.
Don’t miss out—reserve your spot today!
New Federal Law: the PUMP Act
Passed in the spring of 2023 as a part of the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Spending Bill, the PUMP Act expanded rights to nursing mothers to have the time and space needed to pump breastmilk at work. While this new law may only be relevant to a small portion of our membership, this law represents a major change to how the law extends rights to educators. Learn more about the PUMP Act from the Department of Labor HERE and an overview from WeAreTeachers.org HERE.
Upcoming Dates
JANUARY BOE MEETINGS: 1/13, 1/27
FEBRUARY BOE MEETINGS: 2/10, 2/24
MARCH BOE MEETINGS: 3/10, 3/24
APRIL BOE MEETINGS: 4/7, 4/28
MAY BOE MEETINGS: 5/5, 5/12, 5/27re information, go to our
NEA-R website and cea.org
NEA-Ridgefield Executive Council
Mary Ellen Foley
Liz Karlan
Ashley Brooksbank
Dave Yolen
Mike Hougasian
Julie Reynolds
October 22, 2024
November 2024
Happy Thanksgiving!
We are so thankful for the work that you do each and every day. While the work we do is never done, we hope you are able to find joy each day in knowing your work has a positive impact on our students. The relationships we create with them and our colleagues are impactful and have meaning beyond our classrooms and buildings.
We are thankful for the team effort through the negotiation process from our negotiations team and thankful for all those who participated in the process throughout the past year. Updates have been shared out with you and we will share the finalized contract once approved by Board of Finance.
We are listening to your concerns and advocating for you in our meetings with central office staff. We will provide updates through your building reps and the newsletter.We will continue to send out monthly newsletters to keep our members informed about current district and statewide issues. Check your emails this week about the WEP/GPO and ways to connect with your senator. It is an easy click of the button to connect to your senators.
Please contact us at ridgefieldnea@ridgefieldnea.com if you have any questions throughout the year. We hope that you enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday with your families and friends.
Mary Ellen & Executive Council
In this update:
Updates from NEA-Ridgefield
Moments of Gratitude
News from the CEA
Legislative Info
Upcoming BOE Dates
Updates from the NEA-Ridgefield
Thank you again to everyone who attended the ratification meeting. HERE is an overview document highlighting key aspects of our contract for 2025-28, including embedded links for salary schedules, etc. The contract has been ratified by our membership and the Board of Education, and is currently with the Board of Finance. Once it has been signed by the BOF we will send out the completed contract to our membership! Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concernsThis is our first year under our new evaluation system - please be on the lookout for communications about the goal setting process, timelines, and additional information from PDEC.
Do you have something you would like the NEA-R to share in our newsletter or on social media? Complete THIS form to submit it to us!
Reminders:
Through RPS we have an Employee Assistance Program which includes a variety of resources available to you, ranging from mental health support to information about insurance and retirement planning. More information can be found on the Personnel page.
Please continue to fill out the Communication Google Form and reach out to your building reps if you’re experiencing parent interactions outside of the norm. This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Please continue to fill out the Aggressive Incident form as well as the district form when appropriate.This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Observation Timeline:
Untenured teachers can expect their first observation to take place by October 31st. Please reach out to your building reps if you need support or if you need more information about RPS observation procedures.
Goal setting meetings should have taken place for all teachers by October 31st
As this is our first year navigating the new system please let us know if you have any questions or encounter any challenges along the way!
Moments of Gratitude Slideshow
Please use the GoogleForm below to submit any picture you would like added to our video slideshow by FRIDAY NOV 22nd. We will send out the video with all the compiled pictures to all union members early the week of Thanksgiving so we can all celebrate those moments of life that bring us joy!
News from the CEA
**To gain access to the full CEA.org website you will need your CEA number**
Social Media Reminder from CEA: Please be mindful of the content that you post on social media, even on private accounts. There have been incidents of social media postings being recorded and widely shared in public formats, so we would like to remind our members to be thoughtful in what you post.
Free Life Insurance as an NEA Member
CEA members can receive free NEA Complimentary Life Insurance, but many haven't named a beneficiary. It's important to designate a beneficiary to ensure that your life insurance benefits go to the person you want. This could be a child, a loved one in need, or anyone else you choose. More information can be found HERE.
Discounts and Deals?
Have your CEA number ready and checkout the teacher discounts available to members!
CT Educator News
Interested in keeping up with Education related news? Check out CT Ed Watch
Legislative
The repeal of WEP/GPO has passed the U.S. House, and now it moves to the Senate, where it is expected to pass. This would be extraordinary news for anyone who has ever paid into Social Security--or anyone whose spouse has done the same. For more information about WEP/GPO, please read this.
CEA offers helpful ideas when processing what the recent Presidential Election may mean for teachers, particularly with the promise of substantial changes to the Federal Government, including the idea of disbanding the US Department of Education. Click here to access this conversation between CEA President Kate Dias and Vice President Joslyn DeLancey to hear their insights.
New Federal Law: the PUMP Act
Passed in the spring of 2023 as a part of the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Spending Bill, the PUMP Act expanded rights to nursing mothers to have the time and space needed to pump breastmilk at work. While this new law may only be relevant to a small portion of our membership, this law represents a major change to how the law extends rights to educators. Learn more about the PUMP Act from the Department of Labor HERE and an overview from WeAreTeachers.org HERE.
October 2024
Greetings Members,
We hope you are enjoying the beautiful fall weather and lingering warm temperatures. We want to extend our gratitude to each and everyone of you for wearing red for Ed and attending last week’s board meeting. Your presence made a powerful statement about the importance of our teaching profession and the need for competitive salaries to attract new educators and retain our amazing educators here in Ridgefield.
The negotiations team has been working since the spring on your behalf to advocate for a competitive contract. We will present this new contract to you on Monday October 28th for ratification. Please attend this virtual meeting to hear about the changes to your contract for next year and vote.
October is moving right along and observations have begun and teacher goals need to be submitted by the end of the month. Please reach out with any questions and we are happy to be a support and resource anytime.
We are stronger together!
Mary Ellen & Executive Council
In this update:
Updates from NEA-Ridgefield
Upcoming Events
News from the CEA
Legislative Info
Upcoming BOE Dates
CONTRACT RATIFICATION!!
On Monday October 28 at 5p we will be hosting a VIRTUAL ratification meeting for the 2025-2028 contract, after which it will be presented to the BOE for ratification on their end.
We are asking members to join this meeting VIRTUALLY using the LINK below in order to hear details about and vote on accepting this new contract. We need attendance of at least 20% of our membership to ratify so we need you to log in!
If joining from your phone we do need to confirm your name against our membership roster, so please be sure that your name reflects who you are. The easiest way to do this is to download the GoogleMeet app so that when you join through the app it reflects your Google email account as opposed to a phone number. The ratification vote will be done through the comments feature of the meeting so there is no expectation of verbal participation in the meeting. If you are concerned about how to join, or know that it will reflect your phone number and would like to alert us in advance, please reach out to us at ridgefieldnea@ridgefieldnea.com prior to the meeting so that we can help you!
LINK: https://meet.google.com/yom-ouir-eoi?hs=224
Updates from the NEA-Ridgefield
THANK YOU to everyone who came out to the BOE meeting on 10/15 and participated in our Red for Ed across the district day. It was a huge success and we were able to visibly show the BOE how important our contract negotiations process is to us.This is our first year under our new evaluation system - please be on the lookout for communications about the goal setting process, timelines, and additional information from PDEC.
We have concluded the negotiations process for our 2025-2028 contract! Thank you to all who have responded to our surveys and leant your expertise already in this process, and please attend our virtual meeting on 10/28 to complete the ratification process.
Do you have something you would like the NEA-R to share in our newsletter or on social media? Complete THIS form to submit it to us!
Reminders:
Through RPS we have an Employee Assistance Program which includes a variety of resources available to you, ranging from mental health support to information about insurance and retirement planning. More information can be found on the Personnel page.
Please continue to fill out the Communication Google Form and reach out to your building reps if you’re experiencing parent interactions outside of the norm. This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Please continue to fill out the Aggressive Incident form as well as the district form when appropriate.This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Observation Timeline:
Untenured teachers can expect their first observation to take place by October 31st. Please reach out to your building reps if you need support or if you need more information about RPS observation procedures.
Goal setting meetings should take place for all teachers by October 31st
As this is our first year navigating the new system please let us know if you have any questions or encounter any challenges along the way!
Upcoming Events:
M 10/28 - Contract Ratification Meeting! Link: https://meet.google.com/yom-ouir-eoi?hs=224
News from the CEA
**To gain access to the full CEA.org website you will need your CEA number**
Free Life Insurance as an NEA Member
CEA members can receive free NEA Complimentary Life Insurance, but many haven't named a beneficiary. It's important to designate a beneficiary to ensure that your life insurance benefits go to the person you want. This could be a child, a loved one in need, or anyone else you choose. More information can be found HERE.
Discounts and Deals?
Have your CEA number ready and checkout the teacher discounts available to members!
CT Educator News
Interested in keeping up with Education related news? Check out CT Ed Watch
Legislative
It is almost time to head to the ballot box, but before you do, please be sure to review Candidate Report Cards to see where each candidate stands on the issues that matter to you. Here is the link: https://cea.org/legislator-report-card/
Looking far ahead, this year's CountyPalooza! Virtual County Forum will take place on January 28, 2025 online. This is an opportunity to collaborate with colleagues from across counties in Connecticut: to swap stories of professional experiences in schools, to voice concerns requiring advocacy, and just to be social with others in the profession. Please navigate your way to the following link to learn more and to register: https://cea.org/event/countypalooza/
An open form with our elected representation remains in the works! Our goal is strong representation in order to make sure that the stories of teaching told on the floor of the legislature in Hartford are our stories. We can make a difference: It starts with us #strongertogether
CEA Legislative Report Card: https://cea.org/legislator-report-card/
New Federal Law: the PUMP Act
Passed in the spring of 2023 as a part of the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Spending Bill, the PUMP Act expanded rights to nursing mothers to have the time and space needed to pump breastmilk at work. While this new law may only be relevant to a small portion of our membership, this law represents a major change to how the law extends rights to educators. Learn more about the PUMP Act from the Department of Labor HERE and an overview from WeAreTeachers.org HERE.
Upcoming Dates
OCTOBER BOE MEETINGS: 10/28
NOVEMBER BOE MEETINGS: 11/12, 11/25
DECEMBER BOE MEETINGS: 12/9
JANUARY BOE MEETINGS: 1/13, 1/27
FEBRUARY BOE MEETINGS: 2/10, 2/24
MARCH BOE MEETINGS: 3/10, 3/24
APRIL BOE MEETINGS: 4/7, 4/28
MAY BOE MEETINGS: 5/5, 5/12, 5/27
September 24, 202Setpember 2024
I hope everyone is settling into their routines in this new school year. Our RPS educators are the heart of our school and are always adjusting these routines to meet the needs of our students. You make it look seamless. We know this is not easy to do on a daily basis and it takes your professionalism, knowledge, compassion and expertise to make it all happen.
As we negotiate our contract this fall, we want to celebrate the work we do and the educators doing the work. We are asking for our members to attend the BOE meeting on October 15 at 7pm so we can celebrate our teachers and remind those negotiating our contract of our value as we head into our final night of mediation. We will share reminders and more information as the date gets closer. Remember, we are always stronger together!
Please reach out if you have any questions at ridgefieldnea@ridgefieldnea.com and remember,your building reps are always there to support you through each day, too.
Mary Ellen & Executive Council
In this update:
Updates from NEA-Ridgefield
Upcoming Events
News from the CEA
Legislative Info
Upcoming BOE Dates
Updates from the NEA-Ridgefield
Tuesday Oct 14th will be a Red for Ed Across the District day! We ask you to please wear red to school that day and also attend the BOE meeting at 7pm that night for our monthly statement to the board. That meeting is also the day before our final negotiation session for this session, and we would love a show of support so that the BoE can see the teachers that their decisions impact.This is our first year under our new evaluation system - please be on the lookout for communications about the goal setting process, timelines, and additional information from PDEC.
We have begun the negotiations process for our 2025-2028 contract! Thank you to all who have responded to our surveys and leant your expertise already in this process, and please keep an eye out for additional information regarding the process as the school year begins.
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Reminders:
Through RPS we have an Employee Assistance Program which includes a variety of resources available to you, ranging from mental health support to information about insurance and retirement planning. More information can be found on the Personnel page.
Please continue to fill out the Communication Google Form and reach out to your building reps if you’re experiencing parent interactions outside of the norm. This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Please continue to fill out the Aggressive Incident form as well as the district form when appropriate.This is solely for NEA-R as data points to use in discussions but no names, specifics are shared with administrators.
Observation Timeline:
Untenured teachers can expect their first observation to take place by October 31st. Please reach out to your building reps if you need support or if you need more information about RPS observation procedures.
Goal setting meetings should take place for all teachers by October 31st
As this is our first year navigating the new system please let us know if you have any questions or encounter any challenges along the way!
Upcoming Events:
Th 10/10 - Negotiations Update at 850, more information to come!
Tu 10/15 - Red for Ed at the BOE! Join us for a show of support at the October BOE meeting as we work towards negotiating a contract for 2025-2028
News from the CEA
**To gain access to the full CEA.org website you will need your CEA number**
Movement on Push to Repeal WEP/GPO
As of this September 19th, 218 members of Congress have signed a discharge petition for a bill to repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), ensuring it will be brought to a vote. CEA Vice President Joslyn DeLancey expressed optimism about the progress, urging continued advocacy for House Resolution 82. She thanked Connecticut Congress members for their support and acknowledged the efforts of thousands of constituents who have actively campaigned for this repeal.
During a press conference, bipartisan sponsors Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger and Congressman Garret Graves highlighted the significance of this movement, emphasizing fairness for public servants affected by these provisions. They recognized that grassroots efforts have led to this pivotal moment, making the repeal bill the most co-sponsored in Congress. NEA President Becky Pringle echoed the sentiment, stressing that these penalties not only harm educators but also negatively impact student outcomes. She called for immediate congressional action, framing the repeal as essential for justice and the future of education in the country.
Discounts and Deals?
Have your CEA number ready and checkout the teacher discounts available to members!
Legislative
As we begin a new academic year, NEA-R has already started laying the groundwork for our second annual legislative listening session. Last year, NEA-R in cooperation with CEA welcomed both state and local elected officials to hear first-hand from our members about the current state of teachers, or students, and of education more broadly in Ridgefield Public Schools. The goal was this: Have the stories told on the floor of the Statehouse in Hartford be the stories of our teachers. This year, we will once again have the opportunity to tell our stories to our elected officials. Please be on the lookout for dates and times for this online event!
Earlier this month, teachers in Bridgeport took to the picket line to protest what Bridgeport Education Association President Jeff Morrissey described as a start to the year that was "in chaos and distress with no end in sight." Specifically, striking teachers cited, "a lack of books and working computers to a shortage of desks, lockers, and certified teachers, school psychologists, and counselors." As fellow educators, NEA-R supports the rights of teachers to call for better working conditions so that they can better serve the students and families of their district.
The NEA-R Legislative Representative will be attending a training session on how to leverage political action to lift the collective voice of educators with elected representation. Stand by for updates on this important work and how you can continue to be an advocate for ourselves, our profession, and our students.
With elections taking place this year, please be sure to access a list of all candidates to read where they stand on the issues that matter to us. You can access these materials HERE!
New Federal Law: the PUMP Act
Passed in the spring of 2023 as a part of the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Spending Bill, the PUMP Act expanded rights to nursing mothers to have the time and space needed to pump breastmilk at work. While this new law may only be relevant to a small portion of our membership, this law represents a major change to how the law extends rights to educators. Learn more about the PUMP Act from the Department of Labor HERE and an overview from WeAreTeachers.org HERE.
Upcoming Dates
SEPTEMBER BOE MEETINGS: 9/9, 9/23
OCTOBER BOE MEETINGS: 10/15, 10/28
NOVEMBER BOE MEETINGS: 11/12, 11/25
DECEMBER BOE MEETINGS: 12/9
JANUARY BOE MEETINGS: 1/13, 1/27
FEBRUARY BOE MEETINGS: 2/10, 2/24
MARCH BOE MEETINGS: 3/10, 3/24
APRIL BOE MEETINGS: 4/7, 4/28
MAY BOE MEETINGS: 5/5, 5/12, 5/27
For more information, go to our
NEA-R website and cea.org
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