CESPA

1. CESPA S OLUTIONS Volume 1 DO YOU KNOW … what the most valuable asset is of the State College Area School District? Remodeled buildings, modern technology and renovated football fields are important investments, but the wisest investment any school district can make is in the support staff and professionals who each day are committed to helping all students reach their potential. DO YOU KNOW … who is responsible for our District’s well-deserved reputation for excellence in education? There are about 1400 employees of the District. The two largest associations representing these people are SCAEA and SCESPA. SCAEA, State College Area Education Association, represents 630 professionals working for Sate College schools. SCESPA, State College Educational Support Personnel Association, represents 330 District paraprofessionals and secretaries. DO YOU KNOW … what the relationship is between SCAEA and SCESPA? Both associations are part of NEA (National Education Association) and PSEA (Pennsylvania State Education Association). The relationship is far closer, though. When SCESPA formed in 2000, SCAEA members were supportive in many ways, providing both invaluable encouragement during the sixteen months it took SCESPA to settle its first contract and leadership training. Our shared commitment to student excellence continues to drive the strong relationship between the associations. DID YOU KNOW … that January 2011 marked the beginning of contract negotiations for SCAEA members? SCESPA members have been negotiating since January 2010 and requested fact-finding January 25, 2011 with the Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board. Both seek equitable contracts that reflect the important contributions made by members to SCASD students.DO YOU KNOW … how each member can help to ensure successful negotiations for both SCAEA and SCESPA? Membership support is critical for the bargaining team's success. Acceptance that contract negotiations can be a long process as well as resolve to support the negotiations team that works on your behalf is crucial. Remembering that members are protected by status quo during negotiations will help us continue to work for improved contracts, rather than push for a quick settlement that could result in a weak contract. The contract the School Board is successful in getting one association to settle for may be used to pressure another association into settlement. Positive and professional relationships have always characterized the vital relationship between SCAEA and SCESPA members as we work towards common goals. It is more important than ever that this remain the case. As we work with the Board negotiation team, it is important to convey our absolute and collective support for the vital contributions of every member. Solidarity is the key to success for both SCAEA and SCESPA.C A E A You An Essential Piece of Quality Education