Through the disguise of poor economic conditions, our educational system is being systematically dismantled; reinterpretation of the Negotiated Agreement is being made daily and reorganization as a means to eliminate employment and attempt to hide discrimination is being instituted.  These actions are attempts to create dissention amongst the members, to discriminate and to weaken our resolve.

I have heard, witnessed and felt over the past school year, and certainly within the last month, frustration and anger coming from members who are victims of the disenfranchisement efforts of this administration.  It will require all of us to rally our professional and personal friends to assist in turning back this callus and openly hostile mentality.  Each ASASP member represents the Union… collectively, we are the Union. Under this strategy of “siege mentality” by the current administration, it becomes necessary that each ASASP voice is on point as to where to place anger and opposition.  I ask you to start calling, emailing and having conversations with your professional contacts, district representatives, council members and other elected officials. These are the people who can help us dismantle this administration which is intent on changing the rules of engagement to suit their purpose… creating distrust and turmoil within the workplace.

While this is not the type of end-of year address to the membership I had hoped to pen, it is one that is needed at this time. As you plan your time away, please allow some time to lend your voice and/or your efforts in support of your Union. Our strength is in our resolve to be united in purpose… that purpose has to be the protection of the guarantees, of the history of practice and of the understood intent of education and our Union. While you are relaxing and enjoying your time away, please rest assured that this Union, your Union, will not lie idle as these injustices are taking place. We will not hunker down to the unfair treatments nor retreat into silence simply because Mr. James Whattam, with Dr. Hite’s approval, decides to wage an attack to reinterpret Negotiated Agreements and demean and discredit our members and leadership. Stay informed, and stay committed!!!

Please provide ASASP your personal email as we will no longer be using the PGCPS email system to communicate with our members. You can contact us through email, asaspunion@gmail.com.