Contract Between
Maple Shade B/E-Burlington
- and -
Maple Shade EA
* * *
07/01/2006 thru 06/30/2009


CategorySchool District
UnitClerical, Teaching/Professional Staff

Contract Text Below





A G R E E M E N T




Between the


MAPLE SHADE TOWNSHIP

BOARD OF EDUCATION




and the




MAPLE SHADE EDUCATION

ASSOCIATION










2006-2007
2007-2008
2008-2009
iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS

  TITLE  PAGE

Section A:  General

Article   I Recognition ................................ 1
Article  II Board Rights ............................... 2
Article  III Association Rights ......................... 2
A. Receipt of Reports and Documents ...... 2
B. School Visits ......................... 3
C. Use of School Buildings ............... 3
D. Use of School Equipment ............... 3
E. Use of Bulletin Boards ................ 3
F. Distribution of Material .............. 4
G. Orientation ........................... 4
H. Student Involvement ................... 4
I. Dues Deductions ....................... 4
J. Organizational Insignia ............... 5
K. Rights Under Statutes ................. 6
L. Access to Board Policies, Rules
and Regulations ....................... 6
Article  IV Health Insurance ........................... 6
Article   V Miscellaneous Provisions ................... 9
Article  VI Negotiations Procedures ....................11
Article  VII Grievance Procedure ........................11
A. Definitions ...........................11
B. Purpose ...............................12
C. Procedure .............................12
D. Filing a Grievance ....................13
Article VIII Duration ...................................15


Section B:  School Aides

Article   IX Employment Procedures ......................16
A. Reduction in Force ....................16
B. Resignation ...........................16
C. Termination ...........................16
D. Transfer, Assignment ..................16
1.  Definition of Transfer ............17
2.  Notification of Vacancies .........17
3.  Requests for Transfer .............17
4.  Involuntary Transfers .............17
E. Work Schedule .........................17
F. Work Year .............................17
G. Contract Notification .................17
H. Lunch .................................17
Article    X Continuation of Employment .................18
Article XI Leave Policies .............................18
A. Personal Business Leave ...............18
1.  Purpose ...........................18
2.  Definition ........................18
3.  Allowance .........................19
4.  Application .......................19
B. Bereavement ...........................19
C. Sick Leave ............................19
1.  Allowance .........................19
2.  Accumulation ......................20
3.  Physician's Certificate ...........20
D. Serious Family Illness,Immed. Family ..20
E. Disability Due to Pregnancy,Childbirth.21
F. Child Care Leave ......................21
Article  XII Evaluation .................................21
Article XIII Miscellaneous ..............................22
A. Strikes ...............................22
B. Just Cause ............................22
C. College Credit Subsidy ................22
Article  XIV Salary Schedule ............................23
A. Rate of Pay ...........................23
B. Longevity .............................23
C. Method of Payment of Salary ...........23
D. Initial Salary ........................24


Section C:  Secretaries

Article  XV Leave Policies .............................25
A. Sick Leave ............................25
1.  Definition ........................25
2.  Sick Leave Allowance ..............25
3.  Accumulation of Sick Leave ........25
4.  Proof of Disability ...............25
5.  Payment for Unused Sick Leave .....25
B. Serious Family Illness, Imm. Family ...26
C. Bereavement Leave .....................26
D. Vacation ..............................27
E. Holidays ..............................28
              Disability Leave ......................28
              Childcare Leave    28
              Personal Business Leave    29
Article  XVI Professional Studies Subsidy ...............29
Article XVII Salary Policy ..............................30
Article XVIII Work Schedule ..............................30
Article  XIX Evaluation .................................30
Section D:  Teachers

Article   XX School Calendar ............................32
Article  XXI Salaries ...................................32
A. Basic Salary Guide ....................32
B. Method of Payment .....................34
Article XXII Employment Conditions ......................35
A. Teaching Day ..........................35
B. Teaching Load .........................36
C. Lunch Periods .........................37
D. Work Year .............................37
E. Professional Meetings and
Obligations ...........................37
F. Transportation of Students ............38
G. Notice of Employment or
Resignation ...........................38
H. Notice of Vacancies ...................38
I. Supervision of Student Teachers .......39
J. Notification of Teaching Assignment ...39
K. Graduate Credit Subsidy ...............39
L. Terminal Leave Provision ..............40
M. Additional Compensation ...............40
Article XXIII Leave Policies .............................40
A. Sick Leave ............................40
B. Serious Illness - Immediate Family ....41
C. Bereavement ...........................42
D. Disability Due to Pregnancy,Childbirth.42
E. Child Care Leave ......................42
F. Absences for Personal Reasons .........43
G. Leave of Absence - Military ...........43
1.  Organized Reserve .................43
2.  Organized Militia - National Guard.43
H. Sabbatical Leave for Professional
Improvement ...........................44
Article XXIV Teacher Evaluation .........................46
Article  XXV Miscellaneous ..............................46

Schedule A Teacher Salary Guides.......................48-50
Schedule B Extra-Curricular Guides.....................51-54
Schedule C Secretarial Guides..........................55
Section A: General
15


Article I - Recognition


A. The Board hereby recognizes the Maple Shade Education Association as the exclusive representative, designated or selected by the majority of the following certificated and non-certificated personnel under contract with the Board, with all the exclusive rights granted the Association by the laws of the State of New Jersey, for the purposes of collective negotiation concerning the terms and conditions of employment, including:

Teachers (including Basic Skills Instructors)
Librarians/Media Specialists
Nurses
Guidance Counselors
Speech Correctionists
Learning Disabilities Teacher/Consultants
Social Workers
School Psychologists
School Media Paraprofessional
Coordinator of Computer Programs
Network Technicians
Sign Language Interpreter
Secretaries
All school aides regularly appointed, under contract

but excluding:

Superintendent
Assistant Superintendent
Business Administrator and/or Business Manager
Secretary of the Board
Secretary to the School Business Administrator
Secretary to the Superintendent
Principals
Vice-Principals
Department Supervisors
Supervisors as defined in the Act
Psychiatrists
Substitutes (per diem)
Home Instruction Teachers
Evening and Summer School Teachers

B. Unless otherwise indicated, the term "teacher(s)" when used hereafter in this agreement shall refer to all professional employees named and as defined in the negotiating unit.
C. Unless otherwise indicated, the term "secretary(ies)" when used hereafter refers to secretaries and clerks included in this negotiations unit.

D. Unless otherwise indicated, the term "school aide(s)" when used hereafter refers to school aides included in this negotiations unit.

E. Unless otherwise indicated, the term "employee(s)" when used hereafter refers to all certificated and non-certificated personnel referenced in the list of inclusions above.

F. The Administrative Assistant for Payroll, Benefits and Computer Services shall be a member of the bargaining unit as long as the incumbent on November 30, 1994 is in that position.  When vacated by the incumbent, the position will be classified as confidential and be removed from the unit.  The work hours for this position shall not be limited to the contractual hours for secretarial employees, but shall reflect the understanding between the Business Administrator and the incumbent when the position was filled.

                  Article II - Board Rights


A. The Board hereby retains and reserves unto itself all powers, rights, authority, duties and responsibilities conferred upon and vested in it by the laws and the Constitution of the State of New Jersey and of the United States, including all decisional law, and rules and regulations of the State Board of Education and Commissioner of Education of the State of New Jersey.

B. The exercise of the foregoing powers, rights, authority, duties and responsibilities by the Board, the adoption of policies, rules, regulations and practices in furtherance thereof and the use of judgment and discretion in connection therewith, shall be limited only by the specific and express terms of this agreement, and then only to the extent that such specific and express terms hereof are in conformity with the Constitution and laws of the State of New Jersey and of the United States, all decisional law, and rules and regulations of the State Board of Education and the Commissioner of Education of the State of New Jersey.
Article III - Association Rights


A. Receipt of Reports and Documents

The Association shall have the privilege of receiving, upon written request, reports and documents presented to the Board of Education and by the Board to other governmental agencies and which are within the public domain after such official presentation.  The request for information from the Association shall list specifically what is requested.  Documents shall be viewed in their official place of deposit.  The Association may be required to reimburse the Board if costs are incurred in connection with furnishing the requested information.


B. School Visits

Representatives of the Association, the Burlington County Education Association, the New Jersey Education Association and the National Education Association will be permitted to visit school premises to transact official Association business, provided they first report to the principal (or Superintendent of Schools in appropriate instances) upon entry, state the nature of their business, and secure permission from the principal (or Superintendent of Schools in appropriate instances).  Permission will not be withheld if, in the opinion of the principal (or Superintendent in appropriate instances), the Association officials visit will not interfere with or interrupt school operations.

C. Use of School Buildings

The Association, upon request shall have the privilege of using school buildings for professional meetings after the close of school on school days provided that all such use conforms to applicable rules and regulations of the Board of Education.

A request by the Association for use of a school building for any such meetings as described in this article shall be made in advance and in writing to the building principal who shall have the authority to designate a reasonable time and place for such meeting so as not to interfere with other scheduled meetings and activities, except that a request for use of school buildings and facilities after 6:00 p.m. shall be made through the school princ­ipal to the Superintendent at least one week prior to the scheduled Association meeting.

If the use of a school building by the Association results in any expense to the Board for custodial services, utilities, or any other services, the Association shall reimburse the Board for such expense upon being presented with a voucher or bill.

The Association shall be required to leave any premises used by it in suitable condition for the next users thereof.

D. Use of School Equipment

The Association shall have the privilege of using school equipment within the school building including typewriters, mimeograph machines, other duplicating equipment, calculating machines, and all types of audio-visual equipment at reasonable times, when such equipment is not otherwise in use.  The Association shall furnish all materials and supplies incidental to such use.


 Use of Bulletin Boards
   
The Association shall be permitted the use of one-half of the existing bulletin Board in each faculty room for the purpose of posting official Association notices; provided, however, that no Association notices, posters or informational bulletins of any sort shall be posted elsewhere in any school building.  All Association notices as posted in faculty rooms shall be official organization materials and all notices prior to posting shall be signed by an authorized Association representative, who shall be solely responsible for the posting and content thereof, and who shall exhibit and give a copy of said notices to the building principal before posting, although the prior approval of the principal shall not be a prerequisite to the posting thereof.

F. Distribution of Material

The Association may distribute to employees within the school building by use of the existing school mailbox facilities, materials dealing with appropriate and legitimate business of the Association, provided, however, that all such material shall be distributed during non-teaching or non-supervisory time for teachers, and non-work time for secretaries and aides.  It further provides that no members of the administration or secretarial staff shall be responsible for the preparation, posting, or distribution of materials for the Association, except that bargaining unit secretaries may do so during non-work time.

G. Orientation

The Board will continue to invite the Association president to the orientation meeting for new employees and to afford him/her time in the program to explain the purposes and work of the Association.

H. Student Involvement

At all times in its exercise of the foregoing rights and privileges, the Association agrees that it will in no way involve members of the student body in any Association affairs nor will the Association permit the use of students as couriers either inside or outside the school buildings for Association business.  This is not intended to discourage the continuation of the annual scholarship fund raising function.

I. Dues Deductions

1. Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 310, Laws of 1967 (NJSA 52:14-15.9e), and in accordance with rules and regulations of the State Board of Education and State Department of Education, the Board agrees to make deductions from a employee's salary for the purpose of paying dues to the Maple Shade Education Association, the Burlington County Education Association, the New Jersey Education Association, and the National Education Association, or any one or any combination of such Associations when said employee individually and voluntarily authorizes the Board to deduct.

2. A employee desiring payroll deductions for organizational dues shall submit to the secretary of the Board of Education a signed and dated authorization statement indicating their choice of organizations.

3. Any such written authorization may be withdrawn by the employee at any time by the filing of written notice of such withdrawal with the secretary of the Board of Education.  The filing of notice of withdrawal shall be effective to halt deductions as of July 1 or January 1 next succeeding the date on which notice of withdrawal is filed.

4. For all employees in the bargaining unit who do not pay dues in accordance with NJSA 52:14-15-93 above, the Board shall deduct a representation fee equal to eighty five per cent of the appropriate dues as certified by the Association.  It is agreed that the Board shall have no other obligations or liability, financial or otherwise, other than as set forth herein because of any action arising out of the understandings expressed in the language of this section.  It is further understood that once funds deducted are remitted to the Association, the disposition of such funds shall be the full and exclusive responsibility of the Association.  The Association shall indemnify and save the Board and its agents harmless against any and all claims, demands, suits, or other forms of liability including legal and/or representation fees resulting from any action arising out of the provisions of this section or in reliance upon any list or notice furnished by the Association.

5. The secretary of the Board shall transmit to the Maple Shade Education Association all monies deducted for dues for the above named organizations, together with a record of any corrections, by the 15th of each month following the monthly pay period in which deductions were made.  The Association treasurer shall disburse such monies to the appropriate Association(s).

6. Each of the Associations named shall certify to the Board in writing, the current rate of its membership dues.  Any Association which shall change the rate of its membership dues shall give the Board written notice prior to the effective date of such change.

J. Organizational Insignia

No employee shall be prevented from wearing the normal organizational insignia as identification of membership in the local Association or its affiliates.






K. Rights Under Statutes

Nothing contained in this agreement shall be construed to deny or restrict to any employee such rights as he may have under New Jersey School Laws.

L. Access to Board Policies, Rules and Regulations

A manual containing the policies, rules and regulations adopted by the Board and in effect shall be located and maintained in the office of each building principal.  Such manual may be viewed by any employee in its place of deposit upon his/her request.

Article IV - Health Insurance


The Board agrees to continue its participation in the New Jersey State Health Benefits Program.  In so doing, the Board will assume the premium costs for eligible employees who enroll in the program.

Effective September 1, 1973, employees who elect to cover eligible dependents in the program may do so, with the Board paying the full premium costs.

The Board shall provide a twenty dollar name brand/ten dollar generic/ten dollar brand name mail order/five dollar generic mail order co-pay fully funded family prescription plan.  Prescription insurance coverage provided by the Board shall not afford duplicate coverage to employees who are members of the same family.

Employees will be eligible for the waiver incentive payment of 50% of the 2003-04 premium cost for prescription, dental insurance and health insurance (major medical).  The parties will investigate the feasibility of implementing a Section 125 program at no cost to the Board to protect staff from taxation of insurance benefits. Beginning as soon as possible after ratification of this agreement, the Board will pay 50% of the 2003-04 saved premiums to employees who waive health insurance; payment will be made in December and June of the school year for which the insurance was waived.  An employee waiving health insurance must show proof of coverage under another insurance plan. Employees may re-enroll at other times subject to insurance carrier determination.

Employees hired after October 1, 1997, will receive a stipend equal to the difference between the cost of Patriot X and the cost of Patriot V if they choose Patriot V.  This payment will only be available for these employees in their first year of employment.

Beginning on September 1, 1985, the Board will provide, at no cost to the employee, dental insurance under New Jersey Dental Plan II - 100/70/50 with $25 deductible for single subscribers only.  Beginning on May 1, 1986, unit members will have the option to select two party option or full family option NJDP 1-100/70/50 with no deductible.  This policy shall remain in force through the duration of the agreement. The maximum annual dental benefit per covered person shall be $1750. The lifetime orthodontic benefit per covered person shall be $2500.

Buy Back Benefits (Health, Dental and Prescription)
    When an employee is eligible for the health benefits, prescription and/or dental program and elects to take no such coverage of the said health, prescription and/or dental for one year, the employee shall receive a payment in lieu of such coverage.
    Forms will be distributed to all staff during the open enrollment period for each benefit (health, prescription and dental).
    Any employee who elects not to take such insurance may re-enroll at the open enrollment period. Employees may re-enroll at other times subject to insurance carrier determination.
    New employees can elect to waive such coverage (health, prescription, dental). In that case, the new employee will receive ˝ the payment in December and the second ˝ in June.
    If an employee has waived such coverage (health, prescription, dental), he/she shall be paid 50% of the 2003/04 premium cost for health, prescription and dental insurance. The employee will receive ˝ the payment in December and the second ˝ in June.
    If an employee has waived coverage for health, prescription and/or dental benefits and dies during the year, a payment shall be made to his/her estate on a prorated amount based upon the time elapsed in the premium year.






















    WAIVER OF DENTAL/MAJOR MEDICAL/PRESCRIPTON COVERAGE

    []  WAIVER OF DENTAL INSURANCE
    []  WAIVER OF MAJOR MEDICAL INSURANCE
    []  WAIVER OF PRESCRIPTION INSURANCE

    I am requesting payment for the waiver of my insurance coverage as specified above for the ____________ school year.

    Attached is proof that I am covered under another medical plan.

    Listed below are the names and dates of birth of my eligible dependents.

    Spouse _______________________ DOB ____________________

    Dependent #1 _________________ DOB ____________________

    Dependent #2 _________________ DOB ____________________

    Dependent #3 _________________ DOB ____________________

    I understand the following:
    1. I may not re-enroll until open enrollment period.
    2.  Employees may in certain circumstances, be allowed to re-enter the plan at other times subject to carrier determination.
    3. That this waiver is subject to all applicable taxes.
      4.  I agree to hold both the Board and Association (if applicable) harmless with regard to any adverse results of my voluntary and informed waiver of the foregoing benefits.

    Employee _______________________________ (print)

    Employee Signature ___________________________ Date __________

    Association Signature ________________________ Date __________

    Board of Education Signature _________________ Date __________
    PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN TO THE BOARD OFFICE















The Board retains the right to change insurance carriers provided that
Benefits and administration of a plan is substantially equivalent. The
Board shall provide for an employee assistance plan at no cost to the
Board of Education.

The Board and Association agree that neither shall
encourage/discourage any new and/or current employee(s) to select
a particular health insurance coverage option (i.e. Patriot X or
Patriot V). A notice shall be attached to all new employees insurance
packets. (exhibit B)

Article V - Miscellaneous Provisions


A. This agreement constitutes Board policy for the term of said agreement and the Board shall carry out the commitments contained herein and give them full force and effect of Board policy.

B. If any provision of this agreement or any application of this agreement to any employee or group of employees is held to be contrary to law, then such provision or application shall not be deemed valid and subsisting except to the extent permitted by law, but all other provisions or applications shall continue in full force and effect.

C. The Board and the Association agree that there shall be no discrimination and that all practices, procedures, and policies of the school system shall clearly exemplify that there is no discrimination in the hiring, training, assignment, promotion, transfer, or discipline of employees or in the application or administration of this agreement on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin or sex.

D. Copies of this agreement shall be printed or reproduced at the expense of the Board within thirty days after the agreement is signed and presented to all employees now employed or hereafter employed.

E. The Board and Association shall continue to comply with the provisions of Chapter 123 P.L. 1974.

F. Each employee may participate in the Maple Shade School District Adult Education program under the same cost and participation standards, exclusive of age, established by the Board for senior citizens.

G. Any individual contract between the Board and an individual employee, heretofore, or hereafter executed, shall be subject to and consistent with the terms and conditions of this agreement.  If an individual contract contains any language inconsistent with the agreement, this agreement, during its duration, shall be controlling.

H. Employees, approved by the Superintendent to travel between school district facilities or to travel outside the school district, shall be compensated at the prevailing IRS rate per mile.

I. During the term of this agreement, neither the Association nor any person acting on its behalf, nor any employee, will cause, authorize, support, or engage in any strike (i.e., the concerted failure to report for duty, or willful absence of a employee from his/her position, or stoppage of work or abstinence in whole or in part from the full, faithful and proper performance of the employee's duties of employment).

J. Each employee may apply for a professional day(s) in order to participate in a professional activity of benefit to the Maple Shade School District.  Such application will be made on the appropriate school form and the determination as to the value to the school program shall reside with the Superintendent.  Expenses necessary for such professional activity shall be reimbursed by the Board.

The Board and the Association agree that where professional disputes exist or arise between an employee and an administrator or supervisor, such disputes will be resolved in private.

L. The Board and the Association agree that the maximum Board expenditure for tuition reimbursement for the bargaining unit shall be $ 42,040, 44,184, 46,437 for 2006-2009.


M. Vehicular Property Damage Fund

1. The Association and the Board shall establish a property damage fund.  The Association shall contribute $1000 to the fund.  The Board shall contribute $1000 to the fund.

2. Employee claims for reimbursement shall be in writing and shall not exceed $200.  The employee must submit an insurance policy.  There shall be no duplicate coverage.

3. A committee consisting of three employees selected by the Association and two Board members selected by the Board shall investigate such claims.  The decision of the committee shall be final and not subject to appeal.

      4. All approved claims shall be paid with the fund existing at the time of the claim.  On or before July 1 of each year, expended and/or appropriated monies shall be replenished by the Board and the Association in proportionate amounts.



Article VI - Negotiations Procedures


A. In accordance with the mandates of P.E.R.C. the parties agree to enter into collective negotiations over a successor agreement in accordance with R.S. 34:13A-1 et seg. or in accordance with statutory requirements, and the procedures set forth herein in a good faith effort to reach agreement on all matters raised by either party concerning the terms and conditions of employees' employment set forth in and limited by Article VII.  Any agreement so negotiated shall apply to all employees, and shall be reduced to writing and signed by the Board and employee organization.

B. This agreement incorporates the entire understanding of the parties on all matters which were or could have been the subject of negotiations.  During the term of this agreement neither party shall be required to negotiate with respect to any such matter whether or not covered by this agreement and whether or not within the knowledge or contemplation of either or both parties at the time they negotiated or executed this agreement.

C. This agreement shall not be modified in whole or in part by the parties except by an instrument in writing duly executed by both parties.

Article VII - Grievance Procedure


A. Definitions

1. The term "grievance" as used herein shall mean a complaint by any employee or employees that, as to him/her or them, there has been an inequitable, improper, or unjust application, interpretation, or violation of a policy, agreement or administrative decision affecting said employee.

The term "grievance" and the procedure relative thereto shall not be deemed applicable in the following instances; (a) the failure or refusal of the Board to renew a contract of a non-tenure employee; (b) matters where a method of review is prescribed by law, or by an rule, regulation or by-laws of the state commissioner of education or the state Board of Education; (c) in matters where the Board is without authority to act; and (d) in matters involving the sole and unlimited discretion of the Board, except as limited by the specific and express terms of this agreement.

2. The term "employee" shall mean regularly employed personnel represented by the Association in the negotiating unit as defined in Article I.

3. The term "representative" shall include any organization, agency or person authorized or designated by any employee or any group of employees, or by a public employee's Association, or by the Board to act on its or their behalf and to represent them.

4. The term "immediate superior" shall mean the person to whom the aggrieved employee is directly responsible under the Table of Organization prevailing in this school district.

5. The term "party" or "party in interest" is the person or persons making the claim and any person who might be required to take action or against whom action might be taken in order to resolve the claim.


B. Purpose

1. The primary purpose of the procedure set forth in the agreement is to secure, at the lowest level possible, an equitable solution to the grievance of an employee.

2. The Board and Association agree that these proceedings shall be kept as informal and confidential as may be appropriate at any level of such procedure.
      Nothing herein shall be construed as limiting the right of any employee having a grievance to discuss the matter informally with the appropriate member of the administration, and having the grievance adjusted without intervention of the Association, provided the adjustment is not inconsistent with the terms of this agreement.

C. Procedure

1. A grievance, to be considered under this procedure, must be initiated by the employee within thirty calendar days of its occurrence, or within thirty calendar days after he/she would reasonably be expected to know of its occurrence.

2. Since it is important that grievances be processed as rapidly as possible, the number of days indicated at each level should be considered as a maximum and every effort should be made to expedite the process.  The time limits specified may, however, be extended by mutual agreement.

3. Failure at any step of this procedure to communicate the decision on a grievance within the specified time limits shall permit the aggrieved employee to proceed to the next step.  Failure at any step of this procedure to appeal a grievance to the next step within the specified time limits will indicate that the grievance has been abandoned.

4. It is understood that employees shall, during and notwithstanding the pendency of any grievance, continue to observe all assignments and applicable rules and regulations of the Board until such grievance and any effect thereof shall have been fully determined.

5. An employee is and will be assured freedom from penalty or reprisal in connection with the presentation of a grievance.

6. In the presentation of a grievance, the employee shall have the right to present his/her own appeal or to designate a representative to appear with him/her at any step in his/her appeal.  When an employee is not represented by the Association, the Association shall have the right to be present.  Whenever the employee appears with a representative, the Board shall have the right to designate a representative to participate at any stage of the grievance procedure.

7. A minority organization shall not have the right to present or process a grievance.

8. It shall be the general practice of all parties to process grievances during times when they do not interfere with assigned duties.

9. The reviewing authorities (principal, Superintendent, or Board), cannot perform properly their function in the review and disposition of grievances unless all facts pertinent to a grievance are presented at each step in the procedure.  Should the grievance submit new evidence at any step in the procedure, the grievance will be remanded to the level at which it was initially lodged.

D. Filing a Grievance

1. An employee who has a grievance shall discuss it first with his principal (or immediate superior, if applicable), in an attempt to resolve the matter informally at that level.  Where the immediate superior is below the rank of principal, the principal shall be notified and shall have the right to be present and to participate in the hearing.  A decision shall be rendered within five school days of said hearing.

2. If the grievance is not resolved to the employee's satisfaction within five school days of said hearing, he/she shall set forth his grievance in writing to the principal specifying:  (a) name and date of filing; (b) the nature of the grievance, the date of occurrence, and listing details and witnesses; (c) the results of previous discussion; (d) the basis of his/her dissatisfaction with the determination; (e) the corrective action desired.

The principal shall communicate his decision to the employee in writing within five school days of receipt of the written grievance (unless circumstances prevent such as the principal's absence).

3. The employee, not later than five school days after receipt of the principal's decision, may appeal the decision to the Superintendent.  The appeal to the Superintendent must be made in writing reciting the matter submitted to the principal as specified above and his/her dissatisfaction with decisions previously rendered.  The Superintendent shall attempt to resolve the matter as quickly as possible but within a period not to exceed fifteen school days (unless a different period is mutually agreed upon).  The Superintendent shall communicate his/her decision in writing to the employee and principal.

4. If the grievance is not resolved to the employee's satisfaction, he/she, no later than five school days after receipt of the Superintendent's decision, may request a review by the Board.  The request shall be submitted in writing through the Superintendent who shall attach all related papers and forward the request to the Board.  The Board or a committee thereof, shall review the grievance, and may at its option hold a hearing with the employee, and shall render a decision in writing within thirty calendar days of receipt of the grievance by the Board or of the date of hearing, whichever comes later.

5. In the event the employee is dissatisfied with the determination of the Board, he/she may request in writing, not later than five school days after receipt of the Board's decision, that the Association submit his grievance to arbitration.  If the Association determines that the grievance is meritorious, it may submit the grievance to arbitration by written notice to the Superintendent no later than fifteen school days after receipt of the employee's request.

6. The Board and Association agree that the procedure in submitting a grievance to arbitration shall be pursuant to and consistent with rules and regulations established by the Public Employees Relations Commission under the provisions of R.S. 34:13A-1 et seq.  Should the procedure be inconsistent with such rules and regulations, the Board and Association will meet to review and revise said procedure.

7. Within ten school days after such written notice of submission to arbitration, the Board and Association shall agree upon an arbitrator and obtain a commitment from said arbitrator to serve.  If the parties are unable to agree upon an arbitrator or to obtain a commitment within the specified period, a request for a list of arbitrators may be made to PERC by either party.  The parties will then be bound by the rules and procedures established by PERC in the selection of the arbitrator.

8. The arbitrator so selected shall confer with repre­sentatives of the Board and the Association, hold hearings promptly, and shall issue his/her decision not later than twenty days from the date of the close of hearing, or if oral hearings have been waived, then from the date the final statements and proofs on the issues are submitted to him.  The arbitrator's decision shall be submitted to the Board and Association in writing and shall set forth his/her findings of fact, reasoning and conclusions on the issues submitted.

9. The arbitrator shall be without power or authority to make any decision contrary to, inconsistent with, or which alters, modifies, adds to, or subtracts from the provisions of this agreement or of applicable laws or rules and regulations having the force of law, or any decision which usurps the functions of the Board or the proper exercise of its judgment and discretion under law and this agreement.  His authority shall be limited to deciding whether there has been a violation of a specific article and section of this agreement.

10. The decision of the arbitrator, if within the scope of his/her authority as above set forth, shall be final and binding if the grievant is a teacher or if the grievance concerns teachers as a group, and advisory if the grievant is a secretary or aide or if the grievance concerns secretaries or aides as a group.

11. The costs for the services of the arbitrator, including per diem expenses, if any, and actual and necessary travel, subsistence expenses and the cost of the hearing room shall be borne equally by the Board and the Association.  Other expenses incurred shall be paid by the party incurring the same.
              Article VIII - Duration


This agreement shall be effective July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2009, and shall be subject to the Association's right to negotiate the subsequent agreement in accordance with law.

In witness whereof the Association has caused this agreement to be signed by its president and secretary and the Board has caused this agreement to be signed by its president, attested by its secretary and its corporate seat to be placed hereon, all on the day and year first above written.

For the Association: For the Board of Education:


________________________ _________________________________
  President  President


________________________ _________________________________
  Secretary  Secretary
          Section D: Teachers
47

Section B: Aides

Article IX - Employment Procedures


A. Reduction in Force

Seniority is defined as an aide's length of continuous service as a full-time regular aide in the school district since the last date he/she began employment with the Board.

The Association shall be notified as soon as possible before any reduction is made.

In the event of a reduction in force, the reduction will be made with consideration for job performance, requirements and evaluations.  Where the above are relatively equal, seniority shall be the most significant factor for retention.  The affected aide(s) shall be given at least a two week notice of the termination of his/her employment.

Whenever employment is terminated due to reduction in force, the aide will be placed on an eligible list in order of seniority for reemployment when a vacancy occurs for which he/she is qualified, and will remain on such list for a period of one year, at which time his/her name will be removed.

Notice of an offer to reemploy a person on the preferred eligible list shall be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the person's last address appearing on the records of the school district.  If he fails to reply within one week of
dated, signed receipt, or indicates that he/she does not desire reemployment or fails to report to work at the specified time after indicating acceptance of reemployment his/her name will be removed immediately from the preferred eligible list.

B. Resignation

An aide who is resigning from his/her position shall give notice to the Board in writing, such notice to be a minimum of two weeks.

C. Termination

Whenever employment is being terminated, the Board shall give the aide notice in writing, such notice to be a minimum of two weeks.

D. Transfer, Assignment

The parties recognize that the assignment and transfer of personnel is a management function vested by law exclusively in the Board, and that nothing in this agreement should be construed to derogate from the power and responsibility of the Board in regard to such matters.
Section B: Aides
1. Definition of Transfer
A "transfer" is defined as a change of building or change of assignment.

2. Notification of Vacancies
Aides shall be informed of vacancies in all positions for which they qualify by posting notice in each school in a designated location selected by the school principal, and by notice to the Association president.  It is recognized by all parties that as much advance notice as possible of vacancies is advantageous to the district in securing the most qualified personnel for available positions, therefore every effort by the administration to give adequate notice of vacancies shall be made.

3. Requests for Transfer
a. A request for transfer to fill an existing vacancy shall be made to the Superintendent, or his/her designated representative within the time limit specified in the notice of vacancy.

b. The Superintendent, or his/her designated representative, will give consideration to the preference expressed by the aide but may deny transfer if, in his/her opinion, such transfer is not in the best interest of the school district.

4. Involuntary Transfers

The parties recognize that to meet staffing needs of the
     School district it is sometimes necessary to transfer an aide
     involuntarily.

E. Aides shall work on a regular basis as per their individual school schedules as prescribed by the Board.  Each aide shall be notified of his/her work assignment two weeks prior to his/her reporting date. Changes to an aide's work schedule shall be made only after a meeting with the aides affected.

F. The work year for all aides shall be consistent with the students' calendar school year but not to exceed one hundred eighty­-six work days.

G. Aides shall be notified of their contract and salary status for the ensuing year no later than thirty (30) days after teachers are notified.

H.   Aides shall receive a thirty (30) minute duty free lunch.





      Section B: Aides

Article X - Continuation of Employment


A. An aide shall automatically be entitled to continuation of his/her present contract and a subsequent contract offer unless an aide's performance has been judged unsatisfactory in accordance with Article X, Paragraphs B, C and D.

B. The administrator shall first verbally warn an aide of deficiencies in his/her job performance by conference.  The administrator shall transmit a letter identifying deficiencies within five days of the conference.

C. The aide shall be afforded an opportunity of at least twenty school days following receipt of the written letter of discipline, for improving his/her performance to a satisfactory level.  During this period the aide may request meetings with the administrator for the purpose of seeking ways of improving the deficiencies noted.

D. An aide who has received a notice from the Superintendent of intent to recommend non-employment and statement of reasons shall be entitled to a hearing before the Superintendent prior to Board action, provided a written request for a hearing is received in the office of the secretary of the Superintendent no later than five school days prior to the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board.  The aide shall be present at the hearing and shall be entitled to representation.

Article XI - Leave Policies


A. Personal Business Leave
      All personnel regularly employed in the Maple Shade system shall have an allowance of up to four days per school year with prior approval of the Superintendent or his designated representative for any of the following reasons: (a) recognition of religious holiday; (b) legal commitment and transaction; (c) marriage of the employee or marriage in the immediate family; (d) personal business which cannot be
handled outside of school hours. and (e) any other emergency or urgent reason not included above, if approved by the Superintendent or his designated representative.

2. Such absence, when approved, shall be without loss of pay.  Three unused days shall be converted to sick leave days.
      Personal days will not be granted on a day prior to or immediately following a holiday or during the first and last

          Section B: Aides

          week of school except under emergency circumstances.  reasons must be written specifically and submitted for the approval of the Superintendent. Notwithstanding the above, personal days will be granted on a day prior to or immediately following a holiday or during the last week of school for the graduation of an immediate family member with two weeks notice.

4. Written reasons shall be given for l(d) and (e).  Personal days shall be for bona fide reason and if the reason stated is bona fide, it shall not be unreasonable denied.

B. Bereavement

All personnel steadily employed by the Board of Education shall be allowed five days leave with full pay for each death in the immediate household.  This shall also include mother, father or child even though they may not live in the immediate household.

Three days leave shall be granted for each death in the immediate family.  Immediate family means: sister, brother, father-­in-law, mother-in-law, grandparent, grandchild, and sole dependent, or guardian.

One day of bereavement leave shall be granted for the death of a sister-in-law or brother-in-law, son-in-law or daughter-in-law.

The application for bereavement leave shall state the relationship to the deceased.

This leave shall not be accumulative.

C. Sick Leave - Definition

"Sick leave" is defined as the absence of an aide from his/her post of duty because of personal disability due to illness or injury or because he/she has been excluded from school by the school district's medical authorities on account of a contagious disease or of being quarantined for such a disease in his/her immediate household.

1. Allowance
In accordance with NJSA 18A 30:1, all regularly employed personnel covered under this agreement shall be allowed sick
leave with full pay for a period of ten work days in any work year. Eleven days for Network Technicians so long as they remain eleven month employees.  Such sick leave allowance will be credited to the aide on the first day of each work year.



                                  Section B: Aides
      Accumulation

          a.Upon retirement under the New Jersey Pension Statutes, aides will be reimbursed 65% of their per diem pay for
          each accumulated sick day for retirement in the 2006/07 school year, 50% for retirement in the 2007/08 school year and 35% for retirement in the 2008/09 school year. Employees will give 60 days notice to the Superintendent prior to retirement or the employee will not receive the benefit. Exceptions will be granted by mutual agreement of the Superintendent and the Association President. Per diem pay is defined as 1/200 of an annual salary for 10 months, 1/220 for 11 months and 1/240 for a 12 month aide. Reimbursement of 35% for resignation with at least 15 years of service in Maple Shade is required.

          b. Payment for unused sick leave under this clause shall be divided into (3) equal payments with the first payment on July 15th after retirement, the second payment on the next July 15th, and the third payment on the third July 15th after retirement.

c. The Board shall make the appropriate payment to the estate of an employee who dies while in the employ of the Board if that employee was otherwise eligible to retire to immediately collect a pension.

3. Physician's Certificate
An aide claiming sick leave may be required by the Superintendent to submit a physician's certificate in order to obtain sick leave.

D. Serious Family Illness - Immediate Family

1. All school aides who are steadily employed by the Board shall be allowed five days of absence with full pay at the discretion of the Superintendent in any school year for serious illness or injury of a member of the immediate family.

2. Immediate family is defined to include:
Father, mother, spouse, child, brother, sister or any member of the immediate household.

3. Unused days shall not be accumulated for use in another school year.

4. An aide claiming serious family illness leave may be required by the Superintendent to submit a physician's certificate in order to obtain the leave.



E. Disability Due to Pregnancy, Childbirth
      An aide will be granted disability leave due to pregnancy, childbirth, or recovery therefrom, upon application when submitted with a physician's certificate.
      When disability leave for one of the above can be    anticipated, the aide will make application 30 days prior to    the date of commencement of such leave.

F. Childcare Leave

1. Aides requesting child care leave for convenience without pay (effective immediately upon termination of disability, maternity or adoption of a child below age five, shall make application at least 30 days prior to the date of commencement of leave, and specifying the date for return per paragraph below.

2. Aides shall take the leave on the date specified on his/her initial application and continue such leave until the start of the next mid year semester break or the beginning of the following school year.  Application to the Board for another full year of leave may be made per paragraph 5 below
       Aides shall advise the administration no later than April                of their intent to return upon expiration of leave.

      The salary on return from leave shall be as indicated in the  current salary schedule for the aide's training and experience.

5. Aides upon written request at least 60 days prior to extension may be granted an additional year for childrearing if the child is under one year of age; (or leave if the child is adopted).
    Article XII - Evaluation


    A. The Board shall evaluate its aides of this bargaining unit at least once a year and, in the process of evaluation, will give consideration to staff and community relations, personality, attitude, and performance of assigned tasks.

    B. An aide shall receive a copy of his/her evaluation report.

    C. Conferences regarding the evaluation report will be held if requested by the aide or evaluator.  No such report shall be submitted to the central office, placed in the aide's file, or otherwise acted upon until a requested conference regarding the evaluation report is held or until the evaluation report has been signed by the aide.  Conferences, when requested, shall be held

    Section B: Aides
        within fifteen working days of the date of the evaluation, unless extended by mutual agreement.

    D. A signature is required of the aide indicating receipt of the evaluation report.

    E. An aide at his/her option shall have the right to append a written response to the evaluation within ten (10) days of receipt of the report.

    F. A copy of the evaluation shall be given to the employee, one day in advance of the conference.

    Article XIII - Miscellaneous

    A. Strikes

    Aides will not be asked to report for work or cross picket lines should the threat of physical violence exist, and the Board in making such judgment would guarantee safe conduct to the work place providing a strike situation existed.  Under no circumstances would the aides positions be placed in jeopardy or their physical well being jeopardized if an untenable situation existed.

    B. Just Cause

    No aide shall be disciplined, reprimanded or reduced in rank without just cause.  Any such action asserted by the Board or any representative shall not be made public and shall be subject to the grievance procedure.  Under no circumstances shall this be construed as granting the right to arbitration on non-renewal of contract.

    C. College Credit Subsidy

    An aide taking and completing college credit courses will be granted a tuition subsidy of (2006-07) $683, (2007-08) $718, and (2008-09) $755.

    The following conditions must be met:

    1. Reimbursement will be made for courses at any college level.

    2. An application must be made to the Superintendent of Schools prior to the meeting of the first class of the course.

    3. At the conclusion of the course payment will be made when a grade of "C" or better is obtained supporting documentation of a transcript of credits and bursar's receipt indicating successful completion of the course and tuition fee paid.


    Section B: Aides
    Article XIV- Salary Schedule

    A. Rate of Pay

    The hourly rate of pay for an experienced aide shall be as follows:

    2006-2007 $18.96 per hour
    2007-2008 $19.93 per hour
    2008-2009 $20.95 per hour

    An experienced school aide is defined as one who was regularly employed under contract on or before February 1 of that contract year. An inexperienced aide’s salary shall be determined by the Superintendent.

    The hourly rate of pay for the Network Technicians and Sign Language Interpreter shall be as follows:

    2006-2007 $33.76 per hour
    2007-2008 $35.48 per hour
                    2008-2009 $37.29 per hour
        The hourly rate of pay for the Xerox operator shall be as follows:
    2006-2007 $11.87 per hour
    2007-2008 $12.48 per hour
        2008-2009 $13.12 per hour


    B. Longevity

    A longevity increase of $100 will be added to the aide's salary in the contract year following the completion of 10, 15 and 20 full years of continuous employment in the school district.

    C. Method of Payment of Salary

    1. School aides will be paid on the basis of an estimated annual salary.  The estimated annual salary will be computed by multiplying the hourly rate of pay by the scheduled work hours per day by 180 days.

    2. Salary payments will be made in equal biweekly installments.  In the event that the normal pay day falls on a weekend, holiday, or other day when work is not scheduled, the aide will be paid on the last working day before the normal pay day.

    3. Deductions for absences without pay, whether voluntary or involuntary, will be made in the first appropriate pay period subsequent to the absence.

    4. A workday is defined as one that requires the aide to remain at his/her station or location and to assume the responsibilities assigned for the amount of hours designated.  If the school days is officially abbreviated for any reason, the aide shall follow the time schedule of the teaching staff.  No pay deduction shall result when an aide completes an officially sanctioned abbreviated school day.
        5. Adjustment in the annual salary shall be made in the first pay period of employment in each school year so as to compensate the aide for all days worked in the work year in excess of 180 days at the daily rate of pay (scheduled work hours per day times the hourly rate of pay).

        6. Employees may choose to have their pay deposited directly into the bank of their choice.

     
    D. Initial Salary

    Initial salary not to exceed the current base salary.  On top of the base salary an aide will be paid $500 if they present evidence of 60 college credits; an additional $500 if they have 90 college credits; an additional $500 for a Bachelors degree; $1,500 total above base.

    The Board of Education does not intend to replace the current staff with college graduates; however the board will seek the best prepared candidates when attrition occurs.



















                            Section C: Secretaries
    Article XV - Leave Policies


    A. Sick Leave

    1. Definition
    Sick leave is defined as the absence of a secretary from his/her post of duty because of personal disability due to illness or injury or because he/she has been excluded from school by the school district's medical authorities on account of a contagious disease or of being quarantined for such a disease in his/her immediate household.

    2.   Sick Leave Allowance
    All secretaries shall be allowed sick leave with full pay, in any school year, for a period as indicated herein:
        a. Ten month secretaries will be allowed ten sick leave days in any work year (September 1 to June 30).
        b. Twelve month secretaries will be allowed twelve sick leave days in any work year (July 1 to June 30).

    Such sick leave allowance will be credited to the secretary on the first day of each work year except secretaries who begin work after the start of the work year will receive a prorated allowance for the rest of that work year in the first month of their employment.

    3.   Accumulation of Sick Leave
    If any secretary requires less than the number of days allowed in any work year, all sick leave days not utilized shall be accumulative to be used for additional sick leave as needed in a subsequent work year.

    4.   Proof of Disability
    A secretary claiming sick leave may be required to submit a physician's certificate of disability for any absence in order to obtain sick leave, and every secretary absent for five or more consecutive days shall submit a physician's certificate certifying his/her disability and his/her fitness to return to work.  Notwithstanding a physicians certificate, no claim for sick leave will be granted if the secretary has engaged in other gainful employment, participated in a work stoppage, or engaged in any activity which raised doubt as to the validity of the claim.

    5. Payment for Unused Sick Leave

    Upon retirement under the New Jersey Pension Statutes,
                        Section C: Secretaries


    secretaries will be reimbursed 65% of their per diem pay for
    each accumulated sick day in the 2006/07 school year, 50%
    for retirement in the 2007/08 school year and 35% for
    retirement in the 2008/09 school year. Employees will give
    60 days notice to the Superintendent prior to retirement or
    the employee will not receive the benefit. Exceptions will
        be granted by mutual agreement of the Superintendent
        and the Association President. Per diem pay is defined as
        1/200 of an annual salary for 10 months, 1/220 for 11 months
            and 1/240 for a 12 month aide. Reimbursement of 35% for
            resignation with at least 15 years of service in Maple Shade
            is required.

            b. Payment for unused sick leave under this clause shall be divided into (3) equal payments with the first payment on July 15th after retirement, the second payment on the next July 15th, and the third payment on the third July 15th after retirement.


    c. The Board shall make the appropriate payment to the estate of an employee who dies while in the employ of the Board if that employee was otherwise eligible to retire to immediately collect a pension.


    B. Serious Family Illness-Immediate Family
        1. All secretaries covered by this agreement who are steadily employed by the Board shall be allowed five(5) family illness days in with full pay at the discretion of the Superintendent in any school year for serious illness or injury of a member of the immediate family.
        2. Immediate family is defined to include: father, mother, spouse, child, brother, sister or any member of the immediate household.
        3. Unused days shall not accumulate for use in another school year.
        4. A secretary claiming serious family illness leave may be required by the Superintendent to submit a physician's certificate in order to obtain the leave.

    C. Bereavement Leave

    The Superintendent, or designee, shall grant bereavement leave with pay as follows:


    Section C: Secretaries
            Five days with pay in the event of death of a member of the immediate household.  This shall also include mother, father, or child even though they may not live in the immediate household.

            Three days leave shall be allowed in the event of death of a member of the immediate family.  Immediate family means: sister, brother, father-in-law, mother-in-law, grandparents, grandchild, and sole-dependent or guardian.

            One day of bereavement leave shall be granted for the death of a sister-in-law or brother-in-law, son-in-law or daughter-in-law.

        The application for bereavement leave shall state the relationship to the deceased.

    This leave shall not be accumulative.

    D. Vacation

    Annual leave is leave which accrues to the credit of secretaries for their use, as needed, for yearly vacation or other personal reasons.  Annual leave is granted only to twelve month secretaries.

    Annual leave will be earned during the work year immediately preceding that in which it is taken.  Leave must be planned to conform to the work schedules and needs of the school district.  Prior approval of the Superintendent or his/her designated representative is required. One week during the school year, September to June, may be taken as vacation and a substitute will be obtained during the one week vacation.
        Annual leave with pay will be granted in accordance with the following schedule to secretaries who, on July 1 of each year, have completed six months or more of continuous service in their
        designated positions:

        6 months but less than 1 year            5 working days vacation
        1 year to 5 years 10 working days vacation
    6 years to 14 years      15 working days vacation
    15 years or more 20 working days vacation


    A secretary with continuous service of over six months in the district, who is retiring, resigning, or whose service is being terminated, shall be entitled to vacation allowance for the current work year prorated upon the number of months worked in the work year in which the separation becomes effective.


    Section C: Secretaries
        The work year is defined as the period from July 1 of one calendar year to the subsequent June 30.
        Up to three vacation days may be carried over beyond the year it would normally be used, with the approval of the supervisor.

    E.   Holidays

    Legal holidays with full pay shall be granted in accordance with the school calendar.  Other holidays shall also be granted in accordance with the school calendar but subject to administrative modification as necessary.

    The Board will provide the following holidays to secretarial and clerical secretaries:

    1. All legal holidays pursuant to law except those on which schools are in session or professional staff members are scheduled for duty.  Labor Day and July 4th shall be holidays for secretaries each year.  If July 4th falls on a weekend, another day off will be scheduled.

    2. All holiday recesses as provided in the school calendar, unless the Administration requires their presence to meet the district work schedules and needs.  Such time worked will be compensated with compensatory time off, on an hour for hour basis, mutually scheduled by the secretary and the supervisor.

    F.   Disability Due to Pregnancy, Childbirth
        1. A secretary will be granted disability leave due to     pregnancy, childbirth, or recovery therefrom, upon application when submitted with a physician’s certificate.

    2. When disability leave for one of the above can be anticipated, the secretary will make application 30 days prior to the date of commencement of such leave.

    G. Childcare Leave

    1. Secretaries requesting child care leave for convenience without pay (effective immediately upon termination of disability, maternity or adoption of a child below age five, shall make application at least 30 days prior to the date of commencement of leave, and specifying the date for return, which shall be up to twelve (12) months after the commencement of the leave. The secretary may return earlier at the discretion of the Superintendent of Schools.
         Secretaries, upon written request at least 60 days prior to the planned return date, may be granted an extension beyond the original planned date, including beyond a total of

    Section C: Secretaries
        twelve (12) months, at the discretion of the Superintendent of Schools.

    H. Absences for Personal Reasons

    1. All personnel regularly employed in the Maple Shade system shall have an allowance of up to four days per school year with prior approval of the Superintendent or his designated representative for any of the following reasons: (a) recognition of religious holiday; (b) legal commitment and transaction; (c) marriage of teacher or marriage in the immediate family; (d) personal business which cannot be handled outside of school hours. and (e) any other emergency or urgent reason not included above, if approved by the Superintendent or his designated representative.

    2. Such absence, when approved, shall be without loss of pay.  
    Three unused days shall be converted to sick leave days.

    3. Personal days will not be granted on a day prior to or immediately following a holiday or during the first and last week of school except under emergency circumstances.  Reasons must be written specifically and submitted for the approval of the Superintendent.

    4. Written reasons shall be given for l(d) and (e).  Personal days shall be for bona fide reason and If the reason stated is bona fide, it shall not be unreasonably denied.

    Article XVI - Professional Studies Subsidy


    A secretary taking and completing college credit courses will be granted a tuition subsidy of $683 (2006-07), $718 (2007-08), and $755 (2008-09).

    The following conditions must be met:

    A. Reimbursement will be made for courses at the any college level.

    B. An application must be made to the Superintendent of Schools prior to the meeting of the first class of the course.

    C. At the conclusion of the course payment will be made when a grade of "C" or better is obtained supporting documentation of a transcript of credits and bursar's receipt indicating successful completion of the course and tuition fee paid.









    Section C: Secretaries


                  Article XVII - Salary Policy


    The initial salary for a secretary shall be negotiated between the secretary and the Board of Education.  Adjustments to that salary thereafter shall be in accordance with the negotiated agreement.

    Employees may choose to have their pay deposited directly into the bank of their choice.
    Article XVIII - Work Schedule


    A. The work day shall be seven (7) hours per day, excluding an unpaid duty free lunch period of thirty (30) minutes, for a total of thirty-five (35) hours per week.  Summer hours shall be one hour less per day.  Starting and ending times for each secretary shall be determined by the supervisor.  Hours worked beyond 35 per week will be paid at the regular hourly rate or compensation time. It will be the employees option. Overtime pay at time-and-one-half will be paid for hours worked beyond forty (40) hours per week.  Overtime may be required as determined by the immediate supervisor.  Hours worked beyond 35 hours per week will only be paid if authorized in advance by the immediate supervisor.


    B. When full-time secretary positions become vacant, the Board may replace such position with part-time positions. Terms and conditions of employment shall be prorated.

    Article XIX - Evaluation

    A. The Board shall evaluate its secretaries of this bargaining unit at least once a year and, in the process of evaluation, will give consideration to staff and community relations, personality, attitude, and performance of assigned tasks.

    B. A secretary shall receive a copy of his/her evaluation report.

    C.   Conferences regarding the evaluation report will be held if    requested by the secretary or evaluator.  No such report shall be submitted to the central office, placed in the secretary's file, or otherwise acted upon until a requested conference regarding the evaluation report is held or until the evaluation report has been signed by the secretary.  Conferences, when requested, shall

                                Section C: Secretaries
        be held within fifteen working days of the date of the     evaluation, unless extended by mutual agreement.

    D. A signature is required of the secretary indicating receipt of the evaluation report.

    E. A secretary at his/her option shall have the right to append a written response to the evaluation within ten (10) days of receipt of the report.

    F. A copy of the evaluation shall be given to the employee, one day in advance of the conference.

    G. Secretaries shall be notified of their contract and salary status for the ensuing year no later than thirty (30) days after teachers are notified.

    H. No written disciplinary materials shall be placed in a secretary's file without just cause.


































                                Section D: Teachers

    Article XX - School Calendar

    A. The school calendar shall be adopted by the Board of Education upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Schools after discussion and consultation with a committee of no more than nine members appointed by the Association.

    B. The Superintendent of Schools shall advise the president of the Association of any necessary changes prior to the time such changes are made, and allow him a minimum of one week, except where extenuating circumstances dictate a shorter time period in which to express the views of the Association.

    It is understood and agreed, however, that no notifications will be required when, in the judgment of the Superintendent, it is necessary to close a school or schools due to inclement weather, or other emergency or exigency.

      D. The number of teacher work days shall not exceed one hundred and eighty six days, exclusive of preschool orientation days for new teachers. School Guidance Counselors shall work an additional ten (10) days between the last work day for teachers in June and the first work day for teachers in September. They shall be paid an additional 5.0%, which shall be pensionable.

      Article XXI - Salaries

      A. Basic Salary Guide

      1. The basic salary guide for teachers covered by this agreement for full-time employment for an academic year is set forth in Schedule A which is attached hereto and incorporated in this agreement.

      2. In the interpretation and implementation of the basic salary guide:

      a. An academic year is defined as the period from September 1 to the following June 30.

      b. Full-time employment shall mean the number of days of employment in each week and the period of time in each day as provided in this agreement.

      c. Each teacher and nurse commencing employment after July 1, 1976 shall have his/her starting salary negotiated individually between the Board and the teacher concerned and future progression shall follow thereafter.

      d. Veterans service credit will be granted in accordance with NJS 18A:29-11 upon presentation of proof of service.

      e. Degrees or additional semester hour credits must be from colleges or universities whose courses are acceptable to the State Board of Examiners for certification purposes.

      f. No teacher employed in the school district during the 1966-67 academic year shall be placed in a column of the salary schedule which is lower than that in which he was placed for the 1966-67 academic year.

      g. The Board of Education may withhold, for inefficient or other good cause, the employment increment or adjustment increment or both in any year by a recorded roll call majority vote of the full membership of the Board.

      When cause for withholding an increment from a teacher under tenure in the district is alleged to be inefficiency, the principal of the school or the Superintendent of the district shall give the teacher written notice of the alleged inefficiency, specifying the nature thereof with such particulars as to furnish the teacher an opportunity to correct and overcome the same.  Upon such notice, the Board of Education will take no action either to grant or to withhold an increment until a period of sixty days has expired, during which time the teacher has an opportunity to correct and overcome the alleged inefficiency.  

      In the event an increment is to be withheld, the Board or a committee thereof, may, at its option, hold a hearing with the teacher prior to rendering a decision.  The basis for any appeal from the decision shall be governed by NJSA 18A:29-14.

      3. Advancement on Salary Guide

      a. Teachers holding a standard certificate may, with the approval of the Board, advance from one column of the salary guide to a succeeding column by presenting evidence of professional growth in the form of:  (1) an earned degree (required for advancement to the BA, MA, or doctorate column), (2) graduate credits earned after award of the degree, (3) undergraduate credits earned after award of the degree and given prior approval by the Board, and (4) equivalency credits granted by the Board.  No more than seven credits in the form of undergraduate or equivalency credits may be presented as qualifying training for advancement to each column of the guide.
        b. Teachers and nurses with a substandard certificate (provisional or emergency) will not be eligible for salary adjust­ment for additional training until the deficiency has been removed.

        c. Application for salary adjustment by change in column on the salary guide must be made to the Superintendent in writing no later than October 1 of each academic year to establish eligibility for salary adjustment in that academic year.  The application must be supported by.:  (1) an official transcript of credits earned in an approved college or university, and (2) certification of equivalency credits earned.

        d. Upon application by a teacher in writing, equivalency credits may be granted, at the discretion of the Board and under the rules and regulations of the Board for: (1) the successful completion of an in-service study program, workshop or course sponsored or co-sponsored by the Board, and (2) the successful completion of a non-credit seminar, workshop or institute sponsored by colleges, or universities, state department of education or other agency.  The amount of credit for each activity will be based upon attendance and preparation requirements and, in general will follow college standards.
          B. Method of Payment

          1. Teachers employed on a twelve month basis shall be paid on a biweekly basis.

          2. Teachers employed on a ten month basis shall be paid on a biweekly basis.

          3. When a pay day falls on or during a school holiday, vacation or weekend, teachers shall receive pay checks on the last previous working day.

          4. Teachers shall receive their final checks on the last working day in June.

          5. Credit Union

          a. Teachers may individually elect to have a portion of their gross monthly salary deducted from their pay and deposited to their credit in the Atlantic-Burlington County Public Employees Federal Credit Union (ABCO) at no cost to the Maple Shade Board of Education.

          b. Teachers electing to have a portion of their gross monthly salary deducted must give written notice to the Secretary of the Board.

          c. Once chosen, the option must continue for the period of the academic year signed for or to termination of the teacher's contract.
                  New teachers hired after June 1 may have the option of joining the Credit Union Savings Plan by giving written notice to the Board Secretary.  Once chosen, the option must continue for the period of the academic year or to termination of the teacher's contract.
              6. Employees may choose to have their pay deposited directly into the bank of their choice.

          C. Part-time teachers shall have all paid leave prorated and shall be paid a prorated salary based on the salary guide.


          Article XXII - Employment Conditions


          A. Teaching Day

          1. All teachers shall be in their school building and ready for work at least twenty minutes prior to the opening of the official school day.  Teachers are required to remain at their place of assignment for at least twenty minutes after the close of the official school day, with the exception of Fridays, a day preceding a holiday, and days that evening programs are scheduled for school-community relations where the teacher's attendance is required, at which time they may leave following the close of school, unless otherwise notified by the principal.  The regular in-school work day shall not exceed seven hours and fifteen minutes in the high school for an eight period day or seven hours five minutes for a seven period day, except as otherwise required in this agreement.  The regular elementary in-school work day shall not exceed seven hours, except as otherwise required in this agreement.

          2. Teachers shall indicate their presence for duty by placing a check in the appropriate column of the faculty "sign-in" roster.

          3. When conferences are scheduled with parents and other persons interested in the welfare of the child, teachers shall remain until the conference has been completed, except that the teacher may require one day's notice.

          B. Teaching Load

          1. The daily teaching load and all teaching assignments shall be made at the discretion of the administration with consideration being given to the equality of teaching load.  Teachers shall not be assigned except temporarily and/or for good cause, without their consent, outside the scope of their teaching certificate or their major or minor field of study.

          Notwithstanding the above, if the high school changes to an eight period day, high school teachers may be assigned to: (a) five teaching periods, two duty periods and one preparation period, or (b) six teaching periods, one duty period and one preparation period, or (c) six teaching periods, zero duty periods and two preparation periods.  Volunteers for six teaching periods will be solicited.  Assignments will be made first from the pool of volunteers.  Assignments will be made for the other staff as deemed necessary by the administration.  Teachers assigned to a sixth teaching period shall receive a stipend as follows:

          2006-07 2007-08 2008-09
          6 Classes-Two preps $3,742 $3,933 $4,134

          6 Classes-One prep,
          One Duty $5300 $5,570 $5,854

          2. In the high school, as consistent with the program of studies, organization of the curriculum, facilities available and the availability of qualified teachers, every effort will be made to assign a teacher to no more than two subject areas and no more than two teaching stations.  In the elementary schools, every effort will be made to establish schedules for special teachers which minimizes travel.

          3. High school teachers shall be guaranteed five periods per week for the purpose of planning and preparation, except for shorter work days or weeks; elementary school teachers shall have at least 225 minutes per week, except for shorter work days or weeks, for planning and preparation while their classes are receiving instruction in other curricular areas.  The Board will make reasonable effort to secure substitutes for absent teachers.

          4. It is understood that an unassigned preparation period is subject to the total school program and, as a result, such things as miscellaneous programs, field trips, testing programs, emergency class needs, and assemblies may, from time to time be substituted for purposes other than preparation when deemed necessary in the judgment of the principal, provided such replacement is conducted impartially and for good cause.
          5. The Board and Association recognize the "co-curricular" or "extra-curricular" program as a valuable and necessary part of a student's total school experience.  As a consequence, it is agreed that teachers will assume reasonable duties and responsibilities inherent in offering a broad range of after-school activities with compensation, the amount to be agreed upon by the Board and the Association, except as provided for in Schedule B.

          6. Teachers will not be assigned the following clerical duties except by mutual agreement: (1) the distribution of office supplies, (2) secretarial duties at faculty meetings, (3) administrative duties that are normally carried out in the school office.

          C. Lunch Periods

          All elementary teachers shall have a forty-five (45) minute duty free lunch period. All high school teachers shall receive a duty free lunch period that is not less than the lunch period time allowed for students.

          D. Work Year

          The work year of teachers covered by this agreement shall be determined by the official school calendar.

          E. Professional Meetings and Obligations

          1. Teachers may be required to remain after the regular workday without additional compensation for up to one hour for not more than two days per month to attend building faculty meetings called by the building principal except that additional meetings may be called with the mutual consent of those involved or in case of emergency.  An agenda for such meetings will be presented one day in advance.  Teachers may feel free to suggest items for the agenda.  In addition, district staff meetings, in-service, curriculum and other professional meetings may be called at the discretion of the principal or Superintendent or other administrative personnel, but not to exceed one meeting per week except with the mutual consent of those involved.
              It is recognized that an effective school-community relations program is necessary and essential to continue public confidence and to increase support of the schools by the community.  It is mutually agreed that those programs already in effect such as parent-teacher conferences, back-to-school night, open house, science fairs, exhibits, holiday programs, and musical programs are a part of the teacher's professional obligation and will be continued in the manner which has been customary.  It is further agreed that teachers will offer their support, professional skill and cooperation on a voluntary basis in cooperative planning with the school administration to extend the program and to make it increasingly effective. Elementary & Secondary Parent/Teacher Conferences before Thanksgiving shall be as follows:
                Monday-4 hr. school day, 2 hr. afternoon P/T conference
                Tuesday-4 hr. day school day, 2 hr. afternoon P/T conference, evening P/T conference 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
              Wednesday-4 hr. day school day, staff released at student    
                  dismissal time.

          3. Teachers should possess competence and knowledge ability in their field of work, and should continue to strive for professional self-improvement.  In view of this, teachers shall submit an annual report as specified by the Superintendent describing professional growth activities engaged in by the teacher for that year.

          4. All teachers shall be required to successfully complete an in-service course in first aid when such course is offered by the Board.  The cost of instruction and materials for such course will be borne by the Board.  Teachers who fail to complete such course when offered shall be required to complete a comparable course at their own expense within a time limit as prescribed by the Board.

          F. Transportation of Students

          Teacher shall not be required to drive students to activities which take place away from the school building.  A teacher may do so voluntarily, however, with the advance approval of his principal.

          G. Notice of Employment or Resignation

          In accordance with and to the extent required by N.J.S.A. 18A:27-10 each non-tenure teacher employed continuously from September 30 shall be advised of lack of subsequent contract offer.  Any teaching staff member whose contract has not been renewed may apply to the Board in writing no later than twenty days following notification for a statement of reasons and/or an informal appearance before the Board.  Any such timely request will be honored by the Board or a committee thereof.

          H. Notice of Vacancies

          Teachers shall be informed, whenever practical, of vacancies in teaching positions (including summer school teacher), supervisory, or extra-pay positions as listed in Schedule B by posting notice on the faculty bulletin board in each of the schools during the school term or, during the summer, by notice filed with the Association president.

          Regularly employed teachers in the Maple Shade School District will be given prior consideration for appointment to summer school teaching positions, providing a written letter of interest in appointment is filed on or before the deadline set by the administrative staff, the teacher has the training, qualifications, and requisite skills necessary to meet the needs, purposes, and requirement of the summer program, and during the summer, posted vacancies will be included in the regular summer mailings, and notice will be filed with the Association president.



          I. Supervision of Student Teachers

          A cooperating teacher shall not be given additional assignments outside his regular responsibilities during the period he/she is supervising a student teacher.  Exceptions to this program can be made in emergencies.

          A student teacher shall be assigned to a teacher only with the prior approval of that teacher.

          J. Notification of Teaching Assignment

          Regularly employed teachers shall be given written notice of tentative teaching assignments on or before July 31 of each academic year.

          Regularly employed teachers shall generally be given notice of an involuntary transfer or reassignment no later than June 30.

          Teachers who receive notice of an involuntary transfer or reassignment after June 30 shall have the right to meet with the Superintendent to discuss the new assignment.

          Teachers who are not satisfied with the discussion at the Superintendent's level shall have the right to appeal in writing to the Board of Education.  The Board may, at its option, meet with the teacher to discuss the matter.

          K. Graduate Credit Subsidy

          A teacher taking and completing graduate credits courses in an NCATE accredited college or university will be granted a tuition and fee subsidy of $1,787 maximum expenditure in the 2006-07 school year, $1,878 in the 2007/08 school year, and $1,974 in the 2008-09 school year, upon successful completion of the course, subject to the following conditions:

          1. Application must be made to the Superintendent of Schools.

          2. The application must be supported by a transcript of credits and bursar's receipt, indicating successful completion of the course(s) and the tuition fee paid.

          3. The teacher must have earned a grade of "B" or better.

          4. Courses must have been taken during the fiscal year for which the subsidy is claimed.

          5. Courses to meet certification requirements or undergraduate courses in related fields will not be subsidized, unless approved by the Superintendent with agreement of payment made prior to enrollment.

          6. If the teacher voluntarily leaves the district within one school year of completion of the course, the teacher must reimburse the Board for the dollar amount which they already had been reimbursed.

          L. Terminal Leave Provision
                  a. Upon retirement under the New Jersey Pension Statutes, teachers will be reimbursed 65% of their per diem pay for each accumulated sick day upon retirement in 2006/07 school year; 50% reimbursement upon retirement in the 2007/08 school year; 35% upon retirement in the 2008/09 school year. Employees will give 60 days notice to the Superintendent prior to retirement or the employee will not receive the benefit. Exceptions will be granted by mutual agreement of the Superintendent and the Association President. Per diem pay is defined as 1/200 of an annual salary for 10 months, 1/220 for 11 months and 1/240 for a 12 month aide. Reimbursement of 35% for resignation with at least 15 years of service in Maple Shade is required.

                  b. Payment for unused sick leave under this clause shall be divided into (3) equal payments with the first payment on July 15th after retirement, the second payment on the next July 15th, and the third payment on the third July 15th after retirement.

          c. The Board shall make the appropriate payment to the estate of an employee who dies while in the employ of the Board if that employee was otherwise eligible to retire to immediately collect a pension.


          M. Additional Compensation

          All teachers who voluntarily give up their preparation period to cover other classes will be compensated for the lost preparation period at the hourly homebound instruction rate, prorated based on the number of minutes lost divided by sixty.  Volunteers will be placed on a list.  Teachers on the list certified to teach the course being covered will be assigned first, if available; if not, the teachers will be assigned on a rotating basis. Also covered at the homebound rate will be the Elementary Presto Pack Night, Parents Math 7-12 Night, Star Lab 5-6 and Elementary Family Math Night with ˝ hour prep for each hour of instruction.

          Article XXIII - Leave Policies


          A. Sick Leave

          1. Sick leave is hereby defined to mean the absence of a teacher from his or her post of duty because of personal disability due to illness or injury, or because he or she has been excluded from school by the school district's medical authorities on account of a contagious disease in his or her immediate household.

          2. All teachers steadily employed shall be allowed sick leave with full pay for a period of ten school days in any school year, except that all teachers who shall have completed five full school years of continuous employment in this district on or before September 1 of any school year shall be allowed twelve school days in any school year, and all teachers who shall have completed ten full school years of continuous employment in the district on or before September 1 of any school year shall be allowed fifteen school days in any school year.

          3. If any teacher requires in any school year less than the above specified number of days, all such sick leave not utilized that year shall be accumulative to be used for additional sick leave in subsequent years.

          4. When absences under the circumstances described above exceeds the annual sick leave and accumulated sick leave, a teacher may, after or during an extended illness, request additional sick leave equal to the number of days of absence beyond the annual sick leave and accumulated sick leave.  This request must be made in writing to the Board through the Superintendent and be accompanied by a statement from a physician.

          The Board may, at its discretion, and whenever it determines that it is right and proper to do so, pay any such person each day's salary less the pay of a substitute, if a substitute is employed or the estimated cost of the employment of a substitute if none is employed, for such length of time as may be determined by the Board in each individual case.

          A day's salary is defined as 1/200 of the annual salary for such person.

          5. After any absence of five consecutive school days, the teacher shall present a physician's certificate upon return to duty.

          B. Serious Illness-Immediate Family
          1. All teachers who are steadily employed by the Board shall be allowed five days leave with full pay at the discretion of the Superintendent in any school year for serious illness or injury of a member of the immediate family.

          2. Immediate family is defined to include: father, mother, spouse, child, brother, sister or any member of the immediate household.
              Unused days shall not be accumulated for use in another school year.
              4. A teacher claiming serious family illness leave may be required by the Superintendent to submit a physician's certificate in order to obtain the leave.


          C. Bereavement

          All personnel steadily employed by the Board shall be allowed five days leave with full pay for each death in the immediate household.  This shall also include mother, father or child even though they may not live in the immediate household.

          Three days leave shall be granted for each death in the immediate family.  Immediate family means: sister, brother, father-in-law, mother-in-law, grandparents, grandchild, and sole-dependent or guardian.

          One day of bereavement leave shall be granted for the death of a sister-in-law or brother-in-law, son-in-law or daughter-in-law.

          D. Disability Due to Pregnancy, Childbirth

          1. A teacher will be granted disability leave due to pregnancy, childbirth, or recovery therefrom, upon application when submitted with a physician's certificate.

          2. When disability leave for one of the above can be anticipated, the teacher will make application 30 days prior to the date of commencement of such leave.

          E. Child Care Leave

          1. Teachers requesting child care leave for convenience without pay (effective immediately upon termination of disability, maternity or adoption of a child below age five, shall make application at least 30 days prior to the date of commencement of leave, and specifying the date for return per paragraph below. Childcare leave will be limited to one year after the maternity disability leave.

          2. Teachers shall take the leave on the date specified on her/his initial application and continue such leave until the start of the next mid year semester break or the beginning of the following school year.  

          3. Teachers shall advise the administration no later than April 1 of their intent to return upon expiration of leave.

          4. The salary on return from leave shall be as indicated in the current salary schedule for the teacher's training and experience.

          5. The teacher's return to the same building, grade, or assignment is not guaranteed, but shall be within the area(s) of certification.

          6. Non-tenure teachers shall not be denied a subsequent contract offer on the basis of requesting such leave, but non-tenure teacher's leave shall be only until June 30.


          F. Absences for Personal Reasons

          1. All personnel regularly employed in the Maple Shade system shall have an allowance of up to four days per school year with prior approval of the Superintendent or his designated representative for any of the following reasons: (a) recognition of religious holiday; (b) legal commitment and transaction; (c) marriage of teacher or marriage in the immediate family; (d) personal business which cannot be handled outside of school hours. and (e) any other emergency or urgent reason not included above, if approved by the Superintendent or his designated representative.
              Such absence, when approved, shall be without loss of pay.  
              Three unused days shall be converted to sick leave days.
              3. Personal days will not be granted on a day prior to or immediately following a holiday or during the first and last week of school except under emergency circumstances.  Reasons must be written specifically and submitted for the approval of the Superintendent. Notwithstanding the above, personal days will be granted on a day prior to or immediately following a holiday or during the last week of school for the graduation of an immediate family member with two weeks notice.


          4. Written reasons shall be given for l(d) and (e).  Personal days shall be for bona fide reason and If the reason stated is bona fide, it shall not be unreasonably denied.

          G. Leave of Absence - Military

          1. Organized Reserve (R.S. 38:23-1)
          Any officer or teacher of the Maple Shade Township School District who is a member of the organized reserve of the Army of the United States, United States Naval Reserve, United States Air Force Reserve or United States Marine Corps Reserve, or other organizations affiliated therewith is entitled to leave of absence from his duties without loss of pay or time on all days on which he/she is engaged in field training.

          "Without loss of pay or time" means that the teacher is entitled to full pay as a school district teacher, plus pay for military training, and that such leave of absence shall be in addition to regularly allowed vacation leave.

          2. Organized Militia - National Guard (R.S.38A:4-4)
          Any officer or teacher of the school district who is a member of the organized militia is entitled to leave of absence from his/her duties on all days during which he/she is engaged in active duty; provided, however, that such leaves of absence do not exceed 90 days in the aggregate in any one year.

          The teacher will be entitled only to differential pay, i.e. the difference between the amount of his pay as a school district teacher minus military pay.  Such leave of absence shall be in addition to regular allowed vacation leave.

          H. Sabbatical Leave for Professional Improvement

          1. A sabbatical leave with pay will be granted to a teacher for professional study, or for travel combined with professional study under the auspices of a college or university, or for other reasons which the Board may consider to be of value in improving instruction in the school district, subject to the following regulations and conditions:

          a. The leave shall be granted for one-half school year or one school year only.

          b. Sabbatical leave will not be granted to holders of emergency or provisional certificates in their teaching assignment.

          c. Sabbatical leave will be granted only to teachers who have completed seven consecutive full-time years of service in the school district prior to the effective date of said leave, or since his/her last prior sabbatical leave, if any.

          d. Sabbatical leaves will be granted to one teacher in the district at any one time.  If more than one teacher requests such leave, selection shall be made on the basis of seniority.  Seniority shall represent the total number of years of service in district.

          e. A teacher on sabbatical leave under this section will receive 70% of the contract salary which he/she would have received had he/she remained on active duty, less such deductions as may be required by Board policies, rules and regulations, state and federal statutes, the rules and regulations of the State Board of Education and Commissioner of Education and the terms of this agreement.

          f. The salary of a teacher on sabbatical leave will be paid in biweekly installments just as though he/she were on active duty in the school district.

          g. Before receiving sabbatical leave, the teacher shall agree in writing with the Board that he/she will meet the conditions herein prescribed and that he/she will return to regular service with the Board after the expiration of said leave for a period not less than two full school years and, that, in the event of breach of said agreement by him/her, all sums paid him/her during his/her leave shall become due and payable immediately to the Board In proportion to the unfulfilled portion of his/her two year commitment, except that such provision shall not apply in the event of temporary or permanent disablement upon return to duty, nor shall it apply to the estate in the event of death.

          h. Application for sabbatical leave shall be made by March 1 in the school year preceding the sabbatical leave if for a full school year or by September 1 if for the second semester of the school year.  The application must include a carefully developed plan for study, or travel combined with study.  Evidence that the teacher has been accepted into a program shall be presented to the Board no later than April 1.

          i. Leave will be in the field of the teacher's subject area or certification.

          j. At the beginning of each semester, the teacher must submit evidence of registration in an approved college or university.  The teacher shall be enrolled in a sufficient number of courses to meet the residency requirements of the college or university.

          k. Regular attendance in the planned program is required.  If the teacher on sabbatical leave fails to meet the attendance requirements of the college or university or withdraws from the program, or demonstrates unsatisfactory progress in his/her program, he/she shall immediately notify the Board, at which time all payments for sabbatical leave will be stopped, and the teacher continues on sabbatical leave without pay.

          l. Upon the conclusion of each semester, the teacher shall submit transcripts of credits indicating satisfactory progress.

          m. The teacher granted a sabbatical leave shall be eligible for the following employment considerations upon return:

          (1) The salary increment will be added as if she/he had been in the Board's active employ during the time of such leave.

          (2) Accumulated sick leave held immediately prior to such leave shall be retained.

          2. The teacher's return to the same building, grade, or special assignment held prior to the granting of leave will not be guaranteed, except that she/he shall be returned to a position of like nature, status and pay.

          Article XXIV - Teacher Evaluation


          A. The Board will continue its function of teacher evaluation in accordance with Policy GCNA-R as adopted July 22, 1980, and in the process of evaluation will give consideration to such factors as classroom management, techniques of instruction, personality, professional attitude, and staff and community relations.  Non-tenure teachers shall be evaluated per Title 6 of the New Jersey Administrative Code.

          B. A copy of each evaluation report shall be given to the teacher one day in advance of the scheduled conference.  A teacher may submit his/her own evaluation if he/she does not agree with the principal's evaluation, and said self-evaluation will be filed with the principal's evaluation in the official personnel file.

          C. The teacher will be notified when any derogatory material with respect to his/her conduct or service is placed in his/her official personnel file.  The teacher may submit a written answer to such material and his/her answer shall be reviewed by the Superintendent or his/her designee and attached to the file copy.

          D. Upon written request on the appropriate form, a teacher will have the right to review, at a mutually convenient time, the contents of his/her central office personnel file.  The review shall be made in the presence of an administrator responsible for the safekeeping of such file.  Confidential records such as application or promotional records will not be made available to a teacher.

          E. No written disciplinary materials shall be placed in a teacher's file without just cause.

          Article XXV - Miscellaneous


          A. The annual stipend for CST members will be $4,608 for 2006-07, $4,843 for 2007-08, and $5,090 for 2008-09.The stipend will be paid to full-time Child Study Team members for working additional hours over and above the regular school day of 7 hours and five minutes.

          B. CST members who are required to work during the summer months will be paid for such work at the rate of 1/200 of their annual salaries per diem.

          C.  
              The school media paraprofessional will be placed on Step 1 BA and receive 80% of that step and will proceed through the guide at 80% of   the step.  In the event that pending legislation mandating a statewide minimum salary and providing additional funding for this purpose to the district during the life of this agreement is enacted, the money received will be added to the negotiated increase in each year of the contract and new salary guide(s) will be negotiated by the Board and the Association.

          D.
              A one-time stipend will be paid to teachers who become National Board Certified Teachers in the amount of $150.00 year in the year she/he attains the certification. In addition to the stipend, the teacher will receive $100 to purchase supplies for her/his classroom the year she/he attains the certification.

                 
          57








































          TEACHER SALARY GUIDE

          SCHEDULE A

          2006-07

           
          Salary Guide
          Step
          BA
          BA+15
          BA+30
          MA
          MA+15MA+30
          1
          42,000
          42,467
          42,932
          43,397
          4386344329
          2
          42189
          42656
          43121
          43586
          4405244518
          3
          42732
          43197
          43662
          44128
          4459445059
          4
          43231
          43697
          44163
          44629
          4509445561
          5
          44152
          44618
          45083
          45548
          4601646480
          6
          44754
          45220
          45686
          46151
          4661647084
          7
          45277
          45742
          46208
          46676
          4714147608
          8
          47157
          47623
          48088
          48555
          4901949485
          9
          48232
          48698
          49163
          49629
          5009450561
          10
          50080
          50721
          51360
          52001
          5264153283
          11
          51222
          51864
          52503
          53144
          5378454425
          12
          52031
          52672
          53312
          53951
          5459455235
          13
          53332
          53973
          54613
          55252
          5589456535
          14
          57969
          58642
          59314
          59987
          6065961330
          15
          62488
          63160
          63832
          64505
          6517765849
          16
          67257
          67771
          68773
          69577
          7035870668
          17
          73867
          74380
          75383
          76187
          7696777279


          A longevity increase of $100 will be added to the base salary in Schedule A in the contract year following the completion of 4, 8, 12, 16 and 20 full academic years of continuous employment in the School District.  An employee on leave of absence granted by the Board will be considered to be in continuous employment, but time on leave will not be counted in the determination of longevity increments.

          In addition to the salary on Step 17 above, an additional $1800 shall be paid to teachers who were on Step 17 in the 2005-06 and have 21 or more years service in the district in 2006-07



          TEACHER SALARY GUIDE

          SCHEDULE A

          2007-2008


             
          Salary Guide
          Step
          BA
          BA+15
          BA+30
          MA
          MA+15MA+30
          1
          43331
          43810
          44290
          44772
          4524845729
          2
          43670
          44149
          44628
          45109
          4558746067
          3
          44009
          44488
          44967
          45446
          4592646405
          4
          44523
          45003
          45483
          45962
          4644146922
          5
          45471
          45951
          46430
          46909
          4739147869
          6
          46091
          46571
          47051
          47530
          4800948491
          7
          46630
          47109
          47589
          48071
          4854949030
          8
          48566
          49046
          49525
          50006
          5048450964
          9
          49673
          50153
          50632
          51112
          5159152072
          10
          51576
          52236
          52895
          53555
          5421454875
          11
          52752
          53414
          54072
          54732
          5539156051
          12
          53586
          54246
          54905
          55563
          5622556885
          13
          54925
          55586
          56245
          56903
          5756458224
          14
          59701
          60394
          61086
          61779
          6247163162
          15
          64355
          65047
          65739
          66432
          6712467816
          16
          69267
          69796
          70828
          71656
          7246072779
          17
          76074
          76602
          77635
          78463
          7926779588


          A longevity increase of $100 will be added to the base salary in Schedule A in the contract year following the completion of 4, 8, 12, 16 and 20 full academic years of continuous employment in the School District.  An employee on leave of absence granted by the Board will be considered to be in continuous employment, but time on leave will not be counted in the determination of longevity increments.

          In addition to the salary on Step 17 above, an additional $1800 shall be paid to teachers who were on Step 17 in the 2006-07 and have 21 or more years service in the district in 2007-08



          TEACHER SALARY GUIDE

          SCHEDULE A

          2008-2009
          Salary Guide
          Step
          BA
          BA+15
          BA+30
          MA
          MA+15MA+30
          1
          45138
          45632
          46127
          46622
          4711547611
          2
          45388
          45882
          46377
          46872
          4736547861
          3
          45638
          46132
          46627
          47122
          4761548111
          4
          45888
          46382
          46877
          47372
          4786548361
          5
          46865
          47360
          47854
          48347
          4884449336
          6
          47504
          47999
          48494
          48987
          4948149978
          7
          48059
          48553
          49048
          49544
          5003850534
          8
          50055
          50550
          51043
          51539
          5203152526
          9
          51196
          51691
          52184
          52679
          5317253668
          10
          53158
          53838
          54516
          55197
          5587656557
          11
          54370
          55051
          55730
          56410
          5708957770
          12
          55229
          55909
          56588
          57267
          5794958629
          13
          56609
          57290
          57696
          58647
          5932960009
          14
          61531
          62246
          62959
          63673
          6438765099
          15
          66328
          67041
          67755
          68469
          6918269896
          16
          71390
          71936
          72999
          73853
          7468275011
          17
          78406
          78951
          80015
          80869
          8169682028

          A longevity increase of $100 will be added to the base salary in Schedule A in the contract year following the completion of 4, 8, 12, 16 and 20 full academic years of continuous employment in the School District.  An employee on leave of absence granted by the Board will be considered to be in continuous employment, but time on leave will not be counted in the determination of longevity increments.

          In addition to the salary on Step 17 above, an additional $1800 shall be paid to teachers who were on Step 17 in the 2007-08 and have 21 or more years service in the district in 2008-09.

          SCHEDULE B

          COMPENSATION FOR EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES


          1. The Board agrees to compensate teachers participating in the following extra-curricular activities according to the following schedule:


          Position or Activity                2006-07   07-08    08-09 

                             

          Football 8101     8344     8594    
             Asst. V/JV                        5592 5760 5933
             Asst. F.                          4715     4856 5002

          Boys Basketball
             Head Coach 7818 8053 8295
             Asst. V/JV 5435 5598 5766
             Asst. F. 4915 5062 5214

          Boys Soccer
             Head Coach 6394 6586 6784
             Asst. V/JV 4391 4523 4659   Asst. F. 3685 3796 3910

          Wrestling
             Head Coach 7818 8053 8295
             Asst. V/JV 5138 5292 5451
             Asst. F 4897    5044    5195

          Baseball
             Head Coach 6619 6818 7023
             Asst. V/JV 4660 4800 4944
             Freshman                           3815    3929    4047

          Cross Country Coach 4904 5051 5203
             Asst .                             3433    3536    3642

          Boys Track
             Head Coach 6593 6791 6995
             Asst. Coach (2) 4550 4687 4828

          Girls Track
             Head Coach 6593 6791 6995
             Asst. Coach (1) 4550 4687 4828

          Golf Coach 3851 3967 4086

          Field Hockey
             Head Coach 6384 6576 6773
             Asst. V/JV 4482 4616 4754
             Asst. F 3685 3796 3910

          Position or Activity                2006-07 07-08    08-09 

          Girls Basketball
             Head Coach 7818 8053 8295
             Asst. V/JV 5435 5598 5766
             Asst. Coach F 4915 5062 5209

          Softball
             Head Coach 6619 6818 7023
             Asst. V/JV 4660 4800 4944

          Lacrosse
             Head Coach 5847 6022 6203
             Asst. Coach 4080 4202 4328

          Bowling V/JV 4009 4129 4253

          Girls Soccer
             Head Coach 6394 6586 6784
             Asst. V/JV 4391 4523 4399

          Asst. Coach of Conditioning
             Fall                             3537    3643    3752
             Winter                             1229    1266    1304  
             Spring                             1097    1130    1164

          Cheerleader Advisor
             Head Coach per season              3219    3316    3415
             Asst. JV per season                2421    2494    2569

          Weight Trainer
             Fall                               1838    1893    1950
             Winter                             1838    1893    1950
             Spring                             1838    1893    1950
             Summer                             1838    1893    1950

          Intramural Sports                     1785    1839    1894

          Marching Band                         3066    3158    3253
             H.S. Concert Band                  1532    1578    1625
             Jr. Concert Band                   1838    1893    1950
             Jazz Band                          1838    1893    1950
             Spring Musical                     1838    1893    1950

          Majorette & Color Guard               2416    2488    2563

          Chorus                              2339    2409    2481

          Yearbook Advisor                      4429    4562    4699

          Yearbook Business Mngr.               2997    3087    3180

          Newspaper Advisor                     2752    2835    2920




          Position or Activity                2006-07    07-08    08-09 

          Student Council
             7 - 8                            2508       2583     2660
             9 -12                            3244       3341     3441    
             4-6 (2) per advisor              1216       1252     1290

          Class Advisors
             Freshman                         1612       1660     1710  
             Sophomore                        1654       1704     1755  
             Junior                           2359       2430     2503
             Senior                           3727       3839     3954

          Drama Director per production
            3 act plays & similar productions 2028       2089     2152
            Musical                           3288       3387     3489
          Asst. Drama Director                1000       1030     1060

          Activity Fund Treasurer             4037       4158     4283

          Technology Club                     2987       3077     3169          

          Wood Shop Club                      2987       3077     3169  

          Interact Club                       1392       1433     1476

          DECA
             Advisor                          2681       2761     2844
             Asst. Advisor                     538        554      571
           
          French Club                          764        787      811

          Spanish Club                         764        787      811  

          Computer Club                        764        787      811

          Jr. High Picture Yearbook           2122       2186     2252    

          Media Club                           764        787      811  

          Pre-School Head Teacher             3062       3154     3249  

          F B L A                             2551       2628     2707

          Health Careers                       764        787      811

          Sr. Honor Society                    1023       1054     1086        

          Jr. Honor Society                    1023       1054     1086

          Math Team                            538        554      571

          Elementary Talent Show               538        554      571

          Drama production
          Grades 4-6 (2) per advisor       1083       1115     1148

             2006-07      07-08     08-09


          Computer Instruction per hour 37-48       38-49     39-50

          Human Relations Club           2073        2135      2199

          Renaissance Advisor (2 positions)   902         929       957

          Peer Mediation Advisor
          Grades 4-6 (2 positions)           603         621       640
          Grades 7-12 (2 positions)      603         621       640

          Jr. High Science Club 764   787   811

          History Club                        764         787   811

          International Club                  538        554       571

          2. Salaries shall be payable upon certification to the Secretary of the Board that the activity is completed; however, Schedule B personnel who so elect shall be paid one-half of their appropriate stipend at mid-season and the balance due at the completion of the season.

          3. A teacher who is unable to complete an activity due to illness, or resignation from the school system or other bona fide reason as determined by the Board will be paid pro-rata.


          4.  A copy of the post-season evaluation report shall be given to the coach one day in advance of any scheduled conference. A coach may submit his/her own evaluation if he/she does not agree with the athletic directors evaluation, and said self-evaluation will be filed with the athletic directors evaluation in the official personnel file.

          SCHEDULE C

          SECRETARIAL SALARY GUIDES



          2006-07 2007-08 2008-09
              Step Step     Step

          1 28950 30385 32000
          2 29300 30735 32350
          3 30140 31085 32700
          4 30835 31950 33050
          5 31480 32620 33850
          6 31985 33140 34380
          7 32470 33785 35050
          8 33340 34540 35950
          9 34280 35520 36850
          10 35200 36470 37840
          11 36370 37685 39100
          12 37990 39360 40850
          13 39610 41040 42580
          14 41230 42720 44320
          15 42940 44490 46150












          Longevity
                            10 consecutive years    $200.00
                            15 consecutive years    $300.00
                            20 consecutive years    $400.00




           


          Maple Shade BE and Maple Shade EA 2006.pdf