UPDATE ON UNION PLUS FREE COLLEGE PROGRAM
The U.S. Department of Education has determined that the way scholarships are used in the Free College program to pay for students that are not eligible for Pell Grants conflicts with its requirements. Union Plus and its higher education partners disagree with this determination, and discussions are ongoing. However, unless and until the Department of Education changes its opinion, the program may not be offered in its current form.
If you are currently enrolled in the Free College Program at Eastern Gateway Community College (EGCC), and you have questions you can email EGCC at onlineteam@egcc.edu or call an EGCC Admissions Counselor at 1-833-465-2505 or the Financial Aid Help Desk at 1-833-465-2505, select option 2.
Information on the Attendance/Retention Bonus
In appreciation for the dedication of the Springfield Public School staff (both bargaining and non-bargaining) during these turbulent times, attendance/retention payments will be issued over the next 3 years.
The current year payment is currently being calculated and will be paid and direct deposited through a separate check on 7/29. Additional information will be included with the payment.
Nicole Rooney
Executive Assistant to CFOO
The details of the agreement are in the following link.
Do you know someone who is interested in becoming a Para-educator in the Springfield Public Schools ?
Holyoke Community College is preparing to start their summer day class sessions for prospective Para Educators. Join a cohort of job readiness trainees and learn about career exploration, financial planning, workplace responsibility, resume preparation and digital literacy skills. The program will run virtually on Zoom.
Apply here-->Inquiry Form for FREE Job Training Opportunities (google.com)
April 14, 2022
We are happy to announce that the ratification to accept our new contract passed by a vote of 259 to 13.
Local 4098 Member of the Month
June 2022
Raimonda Cina
Raimonda Cina has been a member of the Federation since September 27, 1999. She currently works as a Para-educator at Central High School.
Mrs. Cina was nominated by fellow Para-educator, Ruth Estabrook. Ruth writes, " I have worked with her for many years. She is a person who goes above and beyond her job. She not only does her duties in the class but she puts all of the MCAS paperwork together for every student who needs them. When she leaves this job she goes to her second job. She always has a smile on her face and doesn't say a bad work about anyone. This is why I think she should get this honor."
Pamela LaBrecque, co-worker and Para-educator writes, "Mrs. Cina has been a Para- Educator in the Springfield Public Schools for many years. She is a tireless advocate for both the teachers and students she works with. She has played a key role in assisting countless students achieve their goals and is always willing to go above and beyond to lend a hand whenever possible. Mrs. Cina is truly a valued asset to the Central Family."
Congratulations and thank you Monda for "Making a Difference"
Nominate a Local 4098 Member to be the Member of the Month
Do you know a member of our unit who goes above and beyond? Would you like to nominate that person for recognition within our local?
We would like to acknowledge a single member of our unit on a monthly basis for their contributions to our members and our local.
Use this link to nominate a member and tell us a little about why you think we should recognize them as the "Local 4098 Member of the Month ".
