THE SVFT LEADERSHIP WISHES EACH OF YOU A HOLIDAY FILLED WITH THE LOVE AND LAUGHTER OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS, PEACE AND CONTENTMENT.
Election for Treasurer- The election for SVFT Treasurer will take place on February 11, 2009. The nomination period is from 12/11/08 through 3:00 P.M. 1/9/09. Candidates, who wish to, may have a statement and photo published in the January newsletter. All statements and accompanying photos must be received at the SVFT office no later than 12/19 at 3:00 p.m. Submit info to Will Arpaia at comminications@svft.org; information submitted will be duplicated on the website.
Budget Cuts - The Connecticut General Assembly will convene on January 7, 2009 to debate the cost cutting proposals all departments have made. The CTHSS (Department of Education) submitted a proposal to close Wright Tech in June, 2009. The SVFT is mounting a vigorous campaign to fight this closing. Coalitions are being formed with other unions and letters of protest have already been sent to the Governor, Lt. Governor, all the Stamford area legislators, legislative leaders, and the chairs of the Education Committee.
Retirement Information - Many members have called the office with questions about retirement. We have limited information to share and cannot estimate for you what your benefits might be. The number for State of CT retirement information is 860-702-3490.
Teacher Certification- Many members certifications are due for renewal in June, 2009. Superintendent Abigail Hughes has agreed to allow a bulk submission. We will keep you informed as the process for this is confirmed.
Degree Scale Stipend- According to Central Office the degree scale stipends will be in the paycheck dated December 19, 2008.The list of those eligible has been sent to SVFT. If you have questions about your eligibility call the SVFT office or Linda Jakab at Central Office.
Committee Assignments- Due to the resignation of Ed Lang and election of Ed Leavy two vacancies occurred on the Grievance & Arbitration Committee. Henry McMillian, rep at Prince and Janice Hochadel, rep at Wright have been appointed to fill those vacancies until June, 2009.
Holiday Office Hours - The SVFT officers, like you, will be on vacation from 12/23 1/5/09. Officers will be checking messages and e-mail and returning urgent messages.