Letter from Lisa: Update on OSEA’s Response to the Coronavirus Pandemic
In the face of an increasingly devastating pandemic, I am proud that our union has used our voice effectively to advocate for the employees we represent, the students we help educate and the communities we serve. We are all facing daunting challenges in our lives and work. Thanks to OSEA, we do not have to face them alone. In light of new information we have learned over the last week, there are a few items I want to share.
School Closure Likely to Continue
Earlier this week, the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) published a ‘Distance Learning for All’ guidance document. In it, ODE states that “we also foresee a strong possibility that our students may not come back through our school house this academic year.” They lay out guidance for a transition to a new type of statewide educational instruction. I know classified and other educators will do everything we can with the resources at hand to make sure students receive the best education possible in this crisis.
Our districts and employers should partner with our chapters to implement this new learning endeavor. It wouldn’t be fair for any educator to be burdened with unrealistic expectations given the circumstances. But give classified the facts, tools and parameters, and we will help come up with solutions to make this work! That’s who we are.
Safety Resources from Oregon State Fire Fighters Council
Safety issues are a primary challenge facing our members. Our labor friends from the firefighters union have shared with us some information about COVID-19 exposure and how to protect yourself. You may find much of this applicable whether at home or on the job. Let’s take this opportunity to thank them for their support and the work they do to serve our communities. In fact, from healthcare workers to first responders, many retail workers to educators like us, so much of the essential workforce is unionized.
New Trauma Counseling Benefit
Stress plays a crucial role in how well many of us are able to respond to the needs of our families, face economic uncertainty, cope with fear, practice social/physical distancing and take care of our emotional wellbeing. I’m happy to let you know that active OSEA members now have access to a new AFT benefit for trauma.
OSEA will continue to work with partner organizations and our labor union affiliates to provide needed resources and information. I know that as individuals and as union members, we are all striving to make a difference in the lives of our members and their families. This is a small part of what we do to help serve and keep our members informed. Thank you.
In unity,
Lisa Gourley
OSEA President
Contribute to our political action fund
