June 28, 2007

Dear Fellow Teacher,

             We at the SDACT are sorry to have missed you at one of our recent regional information meetings.  Several of your colleagues who did attend, and who had not been members of our union in the past, suggested that we provide you with information they felt you need to hear.

             A consistent theme that emerged from our question-and-answer sessions involved the fear that attending such a meeting or supporting our union’s efforts would, somehow, put jobs in jeopardy.  Your colleagues felt that we should inform you about Diocesan School Policy 417.   Since 1984, this policy has provided a means for Diocesan teachers to consider the option of unionization – without fear of intimidation or reprisal.

             Another concern that arose was the tremendous salary disparity that will exist among teachers once the new regional systems begin to operate.  This disparity will be seen among teachers with the same number of years of service.  Some such teachers will be earning $10,000, $20,000 or even $30,000 less than a teacher across the hall.  That situation cries out for justice, and will become a priority item for our union to rectify once we gain the authority to bargain on behalf of all teachers.

             Finally, many of your colleagues were not aware of the fact that, without a union to provide otherwise, we are all “at-will” employees.  In its simplest definition, that term means that we can be dismissed from our jobs at the whim of our employers – without reason, without just cause, and without recourse.  Therefore, means of acquiring tenure, and the protection it provides, is another priority item on our list.

             None of the above items are exaggerations or fabrications intended to lure you into the evil clutches of some “monolithic, self-serving union.”  Unions are in fact nothing more than a group of people just like you and me who band together to address common problems, and who work together to assure justice and dignity in the workplace for all of our teachers.

             Won’t you join us in this most righteous cause?  Please fill out an authorization card.  In doing so it is your indication that you feel that our union would be the appropriate way for teachers to pursue the above-mentioned goals.  (Signing the card does not make you a union member, nor does it obligate anyone to dues payment).  The cards will be held in strictest confidence.  No agent of the employer will ever see them.  Only the SDACT organizing committee and a neutral third party (approved by SDACT and the Diocese) will see the cards.

            Although SDACT needs only a majority of the teachers to gain representation for all, there is much to be said for solidarity in these circumstances.  We will negotiate your salary, benefits and working conditions, even should you decline to join us. It would be much to your advantage, however, to have a voice in that process as a member of our Association.

            If you desire further information, clarification or discussion of these and other vital issues, do not hesitate to call our office.  We’ll even meet with you in person if you so desire.