Galesburg Education Association
Press Release: June 25th, 2012
For immediate release
On May 22nd, 2012 the GEA received notice of District 205’s intent to hold a hearing on obtaining a State waiver for the Pulaski Day holiday. Upon this notice, the GEA informed the Board Administration of our concern that such a waiver would be in conflict with the newly agreed to Collective Bargaining Agreement. GEA President Russ Ullrich expressed to Board Administration members that the educators “are not opposed to working Pulaski Day” but believe the collective bargaining agreement must be followed. “We can’t pick and choose which parts of the contract to follow and which parts we don’t.” At a recent grievance hearing representatives of the GEA have offered options to the Board Administration that would allow for the possible attendance of Pulaski and Columbus Day. GEA Vice President Leesa Farmer commented “the two parties could simply draft a Memo of Understanding or agree to modify the specific language in the contract.” It’s a fairly straightforward process; but we have to be included in that process.
District 205’s representatives are considering the options and the GEA leadership expects a response from them soon. GEA members are encouraged to visit the GEA website for updates.
