BTU Family Forum for All Families: February 9, 7:00-8:30PM
Please join us for the next BTU Forum for ALL BPS families. We want to hear your needs, concerns and ideas, and we will share an update on school reopening in BPS and what families should expect. We have flyers in English, Spanish, Haitian-Creöle, and Vietnamese. Please register here and share these flyers widely with families at your school and in your community networks.
NEW- Implementing Public Health Protocols in Our Schools: February 5, 3:30-5:00PM
Even with expanded access to testing and vaccination, public health protocols like physical distancing and adequate ventilation will remain a critical part of the overall mitigation strategy to reduce transmissions. Hear from experts and AFT leaders about the essential elements of a comprehensive public health strategy and what AFT affiliates have done to advance these issues. Register here!
NEW- Dual Language Educators Committee Meeting: February 8, 5:30PM
Please see the flyers in English, Spanish, and Haitian-Creöle.
NEW- Virtual Paraprofessional Break Room: February, 9, 5:00-6:00PM
Due to the snowstorm and early dismissal, the Virtual Paraprofessional Break Room originally scheduled for February 2 is now being held February 9. Come in to say hello and have a casual social conversation and check-in. No work/union talk allowed! Please register here.
NEW- Engaging Students in Remote/Hybrid Learning in ELA: February 10
BPS ELA Dept. and the BPS/BTU Telescope Network are co-hosting a series of “Connect and Share Spotlight Sessions.” During these 1-hour sessions, you can hear from a panel of “humble expert” colleagues about what’s working for them and bring good ideas back to your own classes. Workshop sessions will be at 8:30, 10:30, and 1 p.m. The full schedule of presenters is still being finalized. School leaders are asked to work with educators interested in attending if at all possible. RSVP here to register. See the calendar of events here.
NEW- AFT Black Caucus Coffee & Tea: February 13, 10:00-11:00AM
The AFT Black Caucus Boston Chapter invites you to refresh with coffee & tea! Click here to join.
Google Docs for Organizing Training: February 23, 4:30-6:30PM
The focus of the training is using Google tools to offer some tips and best practices for communication, organization, and mobilization. It is best suited for folks in initial stages of understanding of how to use these tools and their role in committee work. To register, please click here.
NEW- BTU Social Event: Magic Show for Adults February 25, 5:30-6:30PM
BTU is happy to announce our first Virtual Social Event during the pandemic. This year has been very difficult! Kick back and enjoy some fun with fellow BTU members: Please join us for a virtual Adult Magic Show with magician (and BTU member) Jim Munsey! To join, please register here.
Our Future for Public Education Winter Conference: February 27, 9:30AM
Join BTU members and leaders to help create our plan to win a new master contract and build a stronger union. Workshops and discussions will focus on our contract fight, understanding the changing political landscape and how we will work with our community allies. We know we are stronger together – now, let’s build on our common goals and create a strategy to win. Register here!
NEW- ELL Task Force Updates
No parent is required by state or federal law to send their child into school for the purpose of taking the WIDA ACCESS test at this time. There should be no hint of punishment or threat directed at any parent or child from any school, school district or DESE. This message should be communicated to each parent of an EL student in the language preferred by the parent. Please see this letter from Multicultural Education, Training & Advocacy (META) and the Center for Law and Education for more information.
NEW- 2021 Scholarship Applications
Applications are open for the BTU and RTC scholarships. Please refer to these letters for more information.
Journey into Education and Teaching (JET) 2021-2022 Recruitment
JET provides a pathway to help you complete your Bachelor’s degree, at little cost, and your Massachusetts teacher licensure. JET supports the goals of building local teacher pipelines and developing an educator workforce that reflects the racial, cultural and linguistic diversity of students. Registration is now through March 15.
Please use this link if you are interested!
BTU Election News
Thanks to all who have begun the candidiate nomination process! Nominations are due on or before March 10. Here is a step-by-step guide to using the new electronic nominations on the member portal.
Comedy Night for AFT Members: February 5, 7:00PM
It’s been a tough year, and after all we’ve been through, we could all use a laugh. On February 5, join President Beth Kontos and AFT Massachusetts for a night of comedy and solidarity. Devin Siebold, a professional comedian and union teacher, will lead a night of laughter for AFT members.
UPCOMING DEADLINE- Teacher Leadership Fund Mid-Year Grants: Open Until 2/26
The Teacher Leadership Fund is happy to announce a new midyear grant opportunity for this year only. We know that now more than ever educators are innovating and creating to address the immense challenges that our students and schools are facing, especially those that have been created or exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Applications accepted on a rolling basis until February 26. Email tlf@bostonpublicschools.org with questions.
Virtual Paraprofessional Retirement Seminar: May 3, 4:30-6:00PM
Save the date! More information to come. Hosted by Michael McLaughlin and Colleen Hart.