Some people who have been critical of the union leadership, have decided to support the contract. These well-respected bloggers are nyc educator, DOEnuts, and JD2715. One thing all three have in common is that they are not ATRs.
By contrast, all bloggers who are ATRs. South Bronx Schools, ATR Adventures, and ATR NYC have voted no. Moreover, ICEUFT, run by a retired ATR recommended a no vote. Finally, I, as an ATR also voted no.
It's a pity that our usually reliable allies, while giving lip service in support of the ATRs, still voted yes for the contract, despite the contract not making any significant changes to the ATR pool.
Just to remind my readers here is what its like to be an ATR. Read the history of the ATR pool.
- ATRs have no say in their placement and rotation.
- ATRs must accept a provisional appointment, even when the school is unappealing.
- ATRs are observed by field supervisors in a strange classroom with no knowledge of the students and no ability to affect their grade..
- ATRs found innocent of 3020-a charges still has a "Scarlet Letter"attached to their file by the DOE as if their guilty..
- ATRs realistically have little opportunity for per session.
- ATRs are treated as :"second class citizens".
- If the ATRs survived their 3020-a hearing, they are considered "untouchables" for vacancies.
- Fair Student Funding makes it almost impossible for veteran teachers to receive an offer for vacancies.
- DOE continues to demonize ATRs and wants them terminated.
Now you know why ATRs voted no.