Teacher’s union concerned district isn’t ready for summer school in Orange County

Summer school in Orange County opens Monday and the teacher’s union said it is deeply concerned the district isn’t ready.

It claims the district has already failed to provide specific safeguards for staff members who returned last week.

When more than 100 Orange County Public School psychologists were required to return to work to begin evaluation of students in person, an array of COVID-19 precautions were promised to meet them, according to an agreement between the district and the union last month.

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The Classroom Teacher’s Association president showed Channel 9 a picture of the type of Plexiglas shields the union said were promised to protect both staff and students.

But the president said they were sent something much different.

“They were given these little tiny dividers where people’s head was above the screen that was supposed to protect them and protect the student too,” said Wendy Doromal, OCCTA president.

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The teacher’s union filed this grievance that alleges several contract violations, including unsafe working conditions.

Among its requests, it wants psychologists to have the option to work remotely.

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The union said its putting the district on notice to find a remedy.

The district said its bound by the rules of labor relations and can’t comment since the two sides haven’t met yet.

Cox Media Group