First Class Reflection

I have had the opportunity to be at the table in two negotiations from the teacher’s side of things. I have truly enjoyed both experiences because they were completely different. They were both set in a traditional based bargaining fashion. The first time it ended up in mediation with the federal mediator and the second time there was much discussion and preparation and the process went smoother with both sides being very satisfied with the new contract. From the administrative side I have not been involved nor will I be officially until I become a superintendent. However, the Havana district will start negotiations next spring and I may still be doing my internship to some degree so I am hopeful I will be able to be involved in a tertiary role.

One of the aspects about collective bargaining is the attention to detail that is crucially important to both sides. I am hopeful in 623 we will learn the items as a superintendent that are crucially important to remember and keep in mind while negotiating a contract. I also learned that it is good practice to have the school attorney involved in the process to ensure the district is covered from and minor a major negotiating catastrophe.

In discussing IBB I find it an interesting concept that is really dependent on the mindset of both the board/superintendent and teacher’s union leadership. Dr. Closen spoke of the fact that TRUST is a must and I believe him completely. If there is not a basis of trust between parties then the collective bargaining process will be long and stressful.

The a-ha I had is the fact that as a superintendent you wear so many hats and everything you do as a superintendent affects the people around you. If one desires to be successful as a superintendent, then one must work daily to develop trusting qualities to enable not just collective bargaining but all facets the job to be productive and positive.