As we close out January and head into February, we want to take a moment to appreciate all of our educators and show you all some love. Please join us on Friday, February 10 for the BTU Winter Party in lieu of our annual holiday party, to celebrate all of you with music, joy and much appreciation. Registration is required – and please remember that while most of our events are open to the public, this is a BTU-member only event.
The February membership meeting is next Wednesday, Feb. 8 beginning at 4:30 p.m. Please remember to bring your BTU card for admittance. As usual, we will have a problem-solving table for those who do not have their cards, but you must bring a photo ID or BPS pay stub. If you need childcare, please register here.
February is also the start of Black History Month. All of the information on our Black Lives Matter at Schools Week of Action, taking place next week Feb 6-10, is listed on the flyer above. We also want to acknowledge the tragic death of Tyre Nichols in Memphis. As Congresswoman Pressley stated, “Black men deserve to grow old.” It should not have to be stated, yet we are mourning his untimely death. Please also see AFT statement from President Weingarten. We will continue to advocate for justice for Tyre and the many other Black Americans who have been killed due to violent and unjustifiable actions resulting from police brutality. Black Lives Matter – always – including in our schools.
Tomorrow, we are celebrating the Lunar New Year at the BTU. Join us as we usher in the Year of the Rabbit and Cat, in collaboration with BTU APALA members and the BTU Racial Justice Standing Committees. We will also have resources available from Asian Women in Health for those who may be looking for ways to process the senseless events in Monterey Park and Half Moon Bay, CA. Today is the last day to RSVP.
Congratulations to the Grew and English High School educators, who after many long nights of negotiations, were able to reach an agreement with BPS last night that will enable them to exit turnaround status, while continuing to support the work they have been doing to uplift the school. Your reps will be sharing the details of the agreement shortly.
In regards to the ongoing pay issues, we are continuing to see progress and issues resolved at a much more expedited pace, but we still have outstanding concerns that have not been totally addressed. Our Contract Organizing Committee will be meeting this week to discuss our plans for continuing action, should we need them. If you have questions our concerns about your pay, please contact your Field Rep.
Lastly, don’t forget to order your BLM at Schools t-shirt! This year’s t-shirt design winner, Erick Tirado, is a student at the BINCA. He shared: “My inspiration comes from my country, Dominican Republic. I started drawing 2 years ago, and last year, I began working on an iPad. The design for BLM tshirt was done on an iPad. Now I want to find opportunities for art programs that help develop my own style.”
Please purchase a shirt using this link to show solidarity in the movement, support this young artist, and remind our students they matter. Shipping is included in the cost of this shirt. Please do not add any other items in the BTU Swag Shop to your order for this shirt. Order today!