Teachers give Baz 'no confindence' vote

Enterprise Editor

Adding to the back-and-forth jockeying between teacher's and the district, the 88 members of the Swanton Education Association have made a vote of "no confidence" in the superintendent, alleging, among other things, illegal actions.

The group had nearly 60 members outside the board of education office downtown during a special meeting to discuss negotiations.

On Friday, Aug. 22 the SEA unanimously approved a vote of no confidence in Superintendent Paulette Baz's "ability to successfully and effectively lead the Swanton Local School District as superintendent," as stated in a written release dated Aug. 25.

The SEA alleges she and the district took "illegal actions" in releasing mediation proposals and direct dealings with association members regarding negotiations. The SEA contends Baz also has made false statements regarding to the community about the Board's offers to teachers.

It also claims the Board's stance on the SEA refusing to negotiate is false.

"The board issued a press release stating the Swanton teachers have refused to discuss language issues," the statement read. "The issue... is particularly troubling to the SEA, as the SEA's bargaining team has either agreed to all of the Board's remaining language issues as of July 22, 2008, or the Board has withdrawn its language proposals. There are no Board-proposed language issues left for either side to negotiate."

The SEA says the difference between the SEA request and the board's proposal is 1.75 percent.

In response to the allegations Baz issued the following statement.

"It is unfortunate that the SEA has resorted to character assassination and mudslinging to achieve their goal of a contract settlement. Despite all of the negative press surrounding negotiations, it is my goal as superintendent to continue to provide an excellent education to the students of the Swanton Local School District."

Also, the board authorized Baz to enter into a contract with Huffmaster should SEA members decide to strike. Huffmaster is a strike management, security and staffing agency which would provide staff in the event of a strike.

"The goal of the board is to ensure our work will continue even if there is a work stoppage," she said. "I can enter into a contract with Huffmaster at my discretion which allows us to continue the education of the kids in our district."

Baz added that since school began she has not seen student education being affected by what is fast becoming a divisive contract negotiation between the board and the SEA.

"From what I can see and what my principals are telling me, the teachers are working," she said. "I have not seen much of a change (in the education of students). I see kids learning and I think that is good."