There are many issues facing us as Guest Teachers as we move from 2019-2020 to 2020-2021. Like others, we face many problems that can be considered basic employment issues. But, as Educators the 2020-2021 school year will offer many challenges that will directly impact our jobs and health.
The largest problem I see on the horizon is our health. Over the course of the year, I am sick 2 or 3 times – usually its either a cold, or the flu – or both! In California, Guest Teachers are lucky – we earn ‘sick leave’ based on an outlined schedule. In total, we have the right to earn and use up to 3 days per ‘school year’.
But this year, have something else to worry about: the Virus.
Specifically, we have the following to deal with, especially as districts move to mitigate issues and make thing safer for everyone. As you read the list, remember, your voice needs to be heard!
The initial list of issues include but are not limited to:
- Social Distancing in classrooms – and thus class size;
- What should we do with someone who is ‘sick’ with any communicable disease?
- What will the district we work in cover, should we get sick?
- What training are we going to receive dealing with first aid, CPR or Germ Protection?
- What will our salaries be, especially if we are going into hazardous circumstances?
- Is it fair to allow people with lesser credentials to become guest teachers, without recognizing our contributions first?
- If everyone else is getting some form of a ‘bailout’ – how come we don’t?
After reading these comments, I am sure that you get my point – changes are coming, and if we don’t participate in the discussion, then we are in trouble.
ARTICLES:
Fauci: Young People Are ‘Propagating’ the Pandemic
COVID-19 Update: State Policy Responses and Other Executive Actions to the Coronavirus in Public Schools – By the Education Commission of the States – Click Here