As we prepare to begin the 2021-22 school year, despite new Covid variants and constantly evolving guidance on health and safety measures, we are in a much better place simply by having the experience of last year. While the upcoming school year offers a partial return to normal, as professionals, we have learned that whatever challenges we will face this year, we can adapt, meet, and overcome them to provide the best education possible for the students and families of West Islip. We demonstrated creativity, commitment, and professionalism throughout last year, and we will continue to do this as we embark on another school year.
Last June, as the school year came to a close, we hoped to gather in person and start this year with a General Membership Meeting. However, circumstances have changed, and out of concern for the health and safety of our members, we will wait until later in the school year to meet. In the interim, Joe and Phil will be visiting each building during the first weeks of the school year, and important information has been included in your WITA folder and distributed to each building. This folder contains a current salary schedule, information about VOTE Cope, and a Benefit Summary highlighting a part of the contract.
Throughout the summer, the WITA Executive Board continued to work as the school district developed reopening guidelines. As a result, we have reached agreements to keep cameras out of our classrooms this year and use Home Instruction if a student has to quarantine. We also have an agreement holding all WITA members harmless while we continue to use IDs to swipe in/out until a new MOA is signed.
We know many of you will have questions as the year progresses, new challenges may arise, and circumstances will continue to change; regardless, the WITA delegates and officers will continue to work on your behalf in whatever way we can.
We would like to wish you a safe and successful school year!
