Archive: November 2004

2003 - 2006 Contract Changes and Clarifications
By Steve Kaplan, UniServe Field Organizer

The 2003 - 2006 Collective Negotiations Contract is in print. The
changes result from four elements:

1. Language negotiated during bargaining
2. Clarifications reached through the grievances
3. Clarifications through the Contract Administration Committee
4. Simple changes to incorporate references and current terminology

Among the changes:

Article 9, Section 9.4 Vision Insurance added the following, "It is mutually agreed between the Parties that vision benefits will be offered solely through the San Diego County Schools Voluntary Employee Benefits Association (VEBA) throughout the life of this agreement." Purchasing the benefit through VEBA provides ongoing savings in administrative costs and a two-year rate guarantee.

Article 10, Section 10.20.2 Family Medical Care Leave was changed to
clarify the leave is available for "sixty (60) working days". Previously it read, "twelve (12) workweeks". The change makes it easier to understand the intent of the language.

Article 14, Section 14.6.3.3 Remediation Plan changed the minimum time for a remediation plan to "fifty (50) working days". Previously the minimum time was "sixty (60) calendar days". The change provides an equitable period for unit members on traditional and year-round calendars. It also provides a somewhat longer time to receive support and demonstrate improvement.