It's almost Spring!

Each school year is an experience that will never be repeated, for many of us it's an enjoyable experience 99% of the time. With this year coming into the "home stretch" we want to ensure that this year ends on a high & positive note for each and every one of our members.

March may be the start of daylight savings, and April not only brings May flowers - it marks the start of we call "Evaluation and Stress Season". Some tips to get you through this time:

1. Only certificated administrators, who are working as an administrator may evaluate you. Teachers (especially the one you work with) are NOT (and we repeat NOT) to complete an evaluation form, or make a report to the principal about your evaluation. If you see that someone other than an administrator is evaluating you or a co-worker, notify your Building Rep immediately! Every principal, and central administrator knows that people whose title contains the word "principal" must conduct the evaluations.

2. The teacher you work with may give feedback, not an evaluation on your performance. However their input must be considered secondary information.

3. After your evaluation, you will most likely meet with your administrator to review the evaluation and to sign the evaluation form. Bring a pad of paper, and a pen with you to the meeting. Focus on the positives, and never admit to your weaknesses (but do acknowledge that they are listed on the form if the administrator brings it up). Everything you say or do, is on the record.

4. If you have a less than satisfactory evaluation, you may attach a written rebuttal to the evaluation. If you decide to write a rebuttal, please ask your Building Rep to contact the EACH Member Rights chairperson to review your rebuttal with you before you give anything to your (or any other) administrator. This is most important, as what is written will go into your employment file permanently. You must be evaluated again prior to the end of the year, after being given reasonable time to address the issues.

5. You are required to sign the evaluation form, even if you disagree with the evaluation. Your signature means that have seen the evaluation, not agree or disagree with it. (Some forms, may have a box you can mark saying you disagree with it, if your form does, feel free to mark the box if you disagree) You may note on the form that your signature does not necessarily indicate agreement with the evaluation.

6. If while meeting with the administrator, you feel that the meeting is going to lead to some sort of action against you: STOP THE MEETING!! and ask for an EACH Building Rep. This is your most important right as an employee. Most administrators in Cherry Hill will comply with the request. If you ask for a rep and the administrator refuses to stop, say nothing. Remain seated, but silent until the administrator ends the meeting. (If they insist on an answer simply sate "I will be happy to respond after I consult with my Association" and leave it at that) Take notes about what transpired after you made the request for a rep. As soon as the meeting ends, alert your building rep as to what happened, and ask them to contact EACH ASAP.

7. If you are called in to see an administrator, ask what the meeting is about. They are obligated to tell you if you ask. If they don't give an answer or tell you that it is about your performance (or something that could lead to action against you) notify your building rep of the time and stated reason (or that they refused to tell you) and ask them to attend with you. Your rep will keep an account of what goes on at the meeting, and if necessary notify EACH that you need further assistance.

Remember, EACH is always here to support you should you have a need. If you have a question or concern, please speak to your Building Rep; call the EACH member-line at (856) 673-1747 or contact us.