AASD Weekly Update 4-16-2020
 

NEW ITEMS
 
  • MESSAGE FROM AASD EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DONIS CORONEL:
     
    AASD Members in Good Standing  --  Doing What They Do Best

    It comes as no shock to AASD that you are all doing a valiant job of leading our schools, and supporting those who lead our schools, during this COVID-19 pandemic. That is what you do. And it is likely you will be leading and supporting this monumental shift to distance learning through the remainder of this school year.  School site administrators have the challenge of leading those who are teaching remotely and getting this generation of students through the school year.   As always, our site administrators are doing an excellent job leading the way.  Our wonderfully dedicated central office certificated staff AASD members and our classified managers and supervisors are doing all they can to support our school site administrators in so many ways.  This is all going on longer than anyone expected when schools were closed on March 13 and, as Dr. Anthony Fauci says, only COVID-19 will determine when it ends.  Meanwhile you are providing, and supporting, instruction in uncharted territory, with conflicting and unclear directives at times.  The airplane is definitely being built while it’s being flown.  That’s to be expected in a time like no other we’ve ever experienced. Some of our AASD members are physically reporting to work to ensure that the district’s assets and staff are safe (school police); some are involved in the distribution of computer devices; some are providing critical training needed to learn new skills for distance learning; and many of our food services AASD members are an essential part of the food distribution process to ensure our students have nourishment during this time when many families are struggling financially.  You are truly appreciated for your service and dedication during this time.

    For the rest of our AASD unit, most of whom are working remotely from home, you have taken on a new level of stress.  Hours upon hours of Zoom meetings, computer work in a likely non-ergonomic set up, constantly putting out fires, trying to take care of your own family as well as your school district family.  It’s daunting.  It’s exhausting.  It’s frustrating.  But you do this for your staff, students and the families you serve.  And you celebrate the occasional exciting, fun or rewarding moment!

    Yet, there are moments of despair.  You know that even if all the students log on successfully, the level of support they receive at home is different from household to household. You know better than anyone that you can’t wish upon a star and shift from in-class to online learning and have it be as effective as in-class instruction.  That’s a fact.  And add that you’re trying to figure out if your students with disabilities are getting the supports they need.  And still running the business of your school remotely.  And if you are central office support, you are trying to figure out how to best align with and provide support to our school administrators.  In times like this, creativity is an amazing thing.  I’ve seen many of you on social media, reading to students, staying connected with families and colleagues, sharing your ideas with peers and staff, trying new strategies and more.  There are a lot of heroic things going on in support of one another.  We are truly in this together.

    All are worrying about the mental health of your staff, your colleagues, your students and your family/friends and perhaps yourself.  This is a really difficult time and some are struggling in a variety of ways.  We are concerned for our AASD members who are physically reporting to work although many protections have been put into place.  Many of you are concerned for family members who may be first responders or other “essential” personnel.  It’s a lot at one time to worry about.  And then the worry when this is all over of the thought of transitioning back to “normal” life – and re-opening schools, re-engaging students and staff and more.  One more thing to worry about in the long list of worries.

    Thank you to those who have shared their questions/concerns/issues/gratitude with AASD via the Google link we have provided in the Daily Update.  We have received over 200 submissions.  Each submission is either sent to the district for response or answered by AASD.  The district leadership team has been responsive to AASD and for that, we are very appreciative.  Your voice is definitely being heard.

    Please know that we at AASD are here to provide you with any support you may need.  Please reach out.  We can’t fix everything but we can provide a listening ear, a pipeline to the right district official that can help you, resources in many areas and we are your voice during this time to the Executive Leadership.  We care about each and every one of you!

    Please take care of yourself and your family.

    Be well,
     
    Donis Coronel, Executive Director, AASD
    On Behalf of the AASD Board of Directors

     
  • CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR THE 2020-2021 AASD BOARD OF DIRECTORS.  Nominations are being accepted now through April 30 for the following positions on the AASD Board of Directors:
     
    POSITION INCUMBENT
    Vice Principal Jon Robell
    Classified Manager Sam Clabaugh
    Classified Supervisor Paula Hamar
    BSSIII/POS Troy Hickey
    Police Management Association (PMA) Jesus Montana
    Health and Welfare Phil Baertschi
    Health and Welfare John Aguilar
    Mid Level Principal No Incumbent
    Elementary Principal Irene Hightower
    Scholarship Committee Co-Chair Classified Veronica Ortega
    Scholarship Committee Co-Chair Certificated Sharon Rubalcava
    Member Relations Co-Chair Classified Maria Moore-Flagg
    Member Relations Co-Chair Certificated No Incumbent
    Professional Development Co-Chair Classified Mario Garcia
    Professional Development Co-Chair Classified Kristin Makena
    Political Action Committee Co-Chair Classified Marci Lammey
    Political Action Committee Co-Chair Certificated Erica Renfree
                      
    Names listed as “incumbent” are current incumbents who have indicated they will run again.  Even though there is an incumbent listed for the categories above, any AASD Member In Good Standing may self-nominate or may be nominated by another AASD Member in Good Standing in any category.  After nominations close on April 30, nominees will be notified to ensure that they accept the nomination and will be asked to write a brief candidate statement.  Elections will be held in May via electronic voting.  Nominations are being accepted in ALL categories listed, including those where the incumbent has already expressed interest in running again.  Self-nominations are accepted.

    Responsibilities of a Board of Directors member are to attend monthly Board of Directors meetings (typically the 3rd Wednesday of the month, September thru June, 3:00-4:30 PM), and to be actively involved in policy making and providing input at the meeting.  The Board of Directors is vested with full authority and responsibility for executive and business administration of all AASD affairs, with each member of the board having one vote.  Board of Directors members are responsible for representing their constituents at the meetings of the AASD Board of Directors on matters that concern them.  Terms for the Board of Directors are two-year terms.  Board of Directors members are also highly encouraged to attend AASD business and social functions.  For additional information on the responsibilities of being a committee co-chair, please visit     www.aasdcs.org and select Governance/Bylaws and review the role of the specific committee within the Bylaws.

    AASD is a member-run organization.  Your participation is encouraged and crucial to the success of our Union.  Please consider running for one of the positions listed.
     
    If you are interested in running for a position or in nominating a colleague    , please e-mail your nomination to AASD Executive Director, Donis Coronel by 5:00 PM on April 30. donis@aasdcs.org
     
  • RESOURCES AVAILABLE THROUGH THE VEBA RESOURCE CENTER (VRC)
    The VEBA Resource Center (VRC) has been working diligently to provide a digital platform for VEBA members to access during this time of school closures/quarantine.  If you are on Facebook, you may access the VRC by typing in VEBA Resource Center.  There are weekly chats with Dr. Tarane Sondoozi which are on various topics that address current issues.  There are also a variety of other resources available including simple circuit training videos, healthy recipes, information on mindfulness and other topics.  This is available to all VEBA members and their dependents.  Take a look!
     
  • AASD OFFICE CLOSURE - The AASD office remains closed, in conjunction with the San Diego Unified school closures, until further notice. The Daily Update will continue through the closure to answer any questions and address any of your concerns with regard to school closures and COVID-19 updates.  The Weekly Update will continue as usual on Thursdays with the typical news and information for AASD members. 
     
  • AASD DISTINGUISHED LEADER AWARDS.  Each year, AASD honors a number of members as AASD Distinguished Leaders. Please consider nominating a colleague for this award. We have wonderful co-workers throughout our AASD bargaining unit and in our retiree ranks who are worthy of recognition.  The AASD Member Relations Committee is hopeful that you will take the time to nominate someone who goes "Above and Beyond!"   You can nominate a co-worker from any category.

    The following link will lead you to the nomination form. Nominations are due by June 30, 2020. Click below for the link to the form and criteria. Please note the extension in the due date to June 30.

    https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Jimt1745JbcutUcpPA5WaOoeZFaZob3f-gnvtxtQO2Q/viewform?ts=5c5b29cc&edit_requested=true

     
  • AASD IS AWARDING $750 SCHOLARSHIPS TO CHILDREN OF OUR AASD MEMBERS IN GOOD STANDING.  APPLICATION DEADLINE IS APRIL 30. The AASD Scholarship Committee is pleased to announce that sons/daughters (including step-sons and step-daughters) of AASD Members in Good Standing, AASD Retired members and AASD Affiliate members who are graduating seniors this year are eligible for AASD scholarships of $750 each to be used towards higher education.  The AASD Scholarship Program is funded by dues from AASD Retired Members and from funds raised last year at our Casino Night fundraiser.  All members/students who apply and are qualified will receive a $750 scholarship.  The application submission deadline is April 30 2020.  Please click the link for information on how to apply.

    PLEASE NOTE:  Due to the school closures, the requirement for obtaining a signature from a school official will be waived.  The due date will remain the same, but we are asking that you mail your application and required essay to the AASD office via U.S. mail. The application must be postmarked by April 30.
     
  • JOB POSTINGS FOR CERTIFICATED POSITIONS AND CLASSIFIED POSITIONS IN THE AASD UNIT.  AASD has been asked to publish the job postings in our Weekly Update. AASD also suggests that all applicants (classified and certificated) mark their calendars to check weekly for new job postings each Monday.  This way, you will not miss out on a posting you might be interested in (as all jobs in the AASD unit must be posted for 10 days).  Additionally, jobs in other units will be posted.

    AASD-Represented CERTIFICATED Job Postings  
    Vice Principal (Elementary and K-8 Support), Closes 5/10/20
    Principal, Barnard Elementary, Closes 5/10/20
    Principal, Longfellow K-8 School, Closes 5/10/20
    Vice Principal, Marshall Elementary, Closes 5/10/20
    Principal, Horton Elementary, Closes 5/10/20
    Principal, Sunset View Elementary, Closes 5/10/20
    Principal, Grant K-8 (Re-Post), Closes 5/10/20
    Principal, Sessions Elementary (Re-Post), Closes 5/10/20
    Principal, Carson Elementary, Closes 5/10/20
    https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/sandi?page=1

    AASD-Represented CLASSIFIED Job Postings
    None at this time.
    https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/sandi?page=1 
     
  • CONDOLENCES. 
    AASD acknowledges deaths of our members, retirees, or their immediate family members via the Weekly Update.  If you have information on a death to be reported in the AASD Weekly Update, please contact any of the staff at the AASD office with the information.  We appreciate your help with this – we don’t always know right away when a death has occurred or the information on services. 

REMINDERS
  • 2020 DEPENDENT ELIGIBILITY AUDIT.  
    Audit Update:  As a result of the District Closure due to the COVID-19 Emergency Declaration, the Dependent Eligibility Audit has been suspended until such time as the District resumes normal business.  For participants who submitted documentation and were confirmed eligible, nothing further is required. Once the district resumes normal business, communication will be provided about the resumption of the audit.  No health coverage will be terminated during the district closure.

    In early January 2020, a letter was sent to your home address, which included a Dependent Eligibility Form with instructions on how to submit the required documentation, a list of Acceptable Documents to Verify Dependent Eligibility and a schedule of on-site events being made available for employees and retirees to personally submit their documentation. 

    The on-site visits conducted by VEBA were scheduled for employees’ convenience.  The on-site visits ended February 12, 2020; however, employees have until March 31, 2020 to submit the necessary documentation.

    Participation by each employee/retiree covering dependents is mandatory.  Please fulfill your obligation for verifying your dependent's eligibility by the deadline described in the letter.  If you do not meet this deadline or do not provide all the documentation necessary to confirm eligibility, coverage for your dependent(s) will cease effective April 30, 2020.

    For more information, visit the District’s website.  From the home page, click on Departments and then on Benefits.  On the Benefits page, you will find information about the audit, including     Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).  The FAQs can be found by clicking on the following link. 
    https://www.sandiegounified.org/sites/default/files_link/district/files/dept/benefits/Dependent%20Eligibility%20Audit%20Final%20FAQ.pdf

    For all inquiries regarding the audit, please call CA Schools VEBA at (888) 806-1994, prompt 2, Monday thru Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST or send a message to:  questions@mcgregorinc.com.
     
  • AASD JUNE SUMMERFEST CELEBRATION HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED.  Due to the current uncertainties, the June 12 Annual AASD Summerfest Celebration has been canceled and has been rescheduled for August 14, 2020.  Mark your calendars now to come and not only celebrate the end of a most challenging school year, but the beginning of a new one!  We will also be honoring our 2019-20 newly retired colleagues and our AASD Distinguished Leaders.  More information will be forthcoming, but mark your calendars now for this celebration!  The event is Friday, August 14, from 5:00-10:00 PM at Marina Village, Baja Room, and is free to all AASD Members in Good Standing, AASD Affiliate Members and AASD Retired Members.  An RSVP will be required and more information will be coming out closer to the event date.
     
  • INFORMATION FROM CALSTRS.
    The most recent update by CalSTRS regarding COVID-19 resources can be found here.
     
    Take a look at the resources available at your fingertips:
    Always accessible to you are Educational Videos:
    https://www.calstrs.com/member-benefit-education

    Retirement Calculators:
    https://www.calstrs.com/calculators

    Additional Retirement Savings Webinar with CalSTRS Pension2
    Start Saving Now Webinar

    Already have a 403b account and looking for potential savings?
    403bCompare Webinar

    Looking for something more account-specific?
    Access your Retirement Progress Report available through your MyCalSTRS.com

    Use the online messaging feature through your MyCalSTRS account online or call 1-800-228-5453 for questions.

    If you are eligible to retire, schedule a session with us over the phone by calling 1-800-228-5453. 

    These resources are brought to you by your CalSTRS San Diego Member Service Center Team. Please stay safe and well during this time.
     
  • AFSA SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE EXTENDED TO MAY 20, 2020.  In light of the current coronavirus situation, AFSA has extended the deadline for the 2020 AFSA Diann Woodard Scholarship Application to May 29, 2020.  In addition to the deadline modification, AFSA has changed some of the requirements:
    •    Students can submit the application package via email to afsa@AFSAadmin.org. 
    •    The file submitted should be a single PDF with all of the required forms and documents. 
    •    Send the application with "delivery status notification" and "return receipt" so you are sure it is received. 
    •    We will accept an unofficial transcript if you cannot obtain an official one.

    - Each year AFSA provides five outstanding students a one-time, $2,500 award toward college tuition.
    - All applicants must be a graduating high school senior who will be attending college for the first time in the award year.
    - The program is designed to support students who express a strong commitment to pursuing education beyond secondary school.  
    - Students who apply must clearly express their goals for the future and appropriately tie these goals to their higher education aspirations.

    Eligibility:
    •    Applicant must be a graduating high school senior who is attending college for the first time in the award year.
    •    Applicant’s parent or legal guardian must be an AFSA member in good standing.
    •    Scholarship award check will be issued upon college enrollment verification.
    •    Scholarship award funds may be used only for tuition, books, fees, supplies and equipment.

    Download the application below:
    https://www.theschoolleader.org/sites/default/files/afsa_scholarship_application_2019-2020_fillable.pdf?link_id=1&can_id=05b864ea44bb6dce5c5b196547fb9abb&source=email-remind-your-kids-2500-afsa-college-scholarship-2&email_referrer=email_755630&email_subject=deadline-extended-2500-afsa-college-scholarship

    PLEASE NOTE THAT THE APPLICATION REQUIRES AN AASD UNION OFFICIAL SIGNATURE.  DONIS CORONEL, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, WILL BE THE SIGNATORY.  PLEASE E-MAIL THE APPLICATION TO DONIS FOR SIGNATURE AND SHE WILL SIGN AND SCAN BACK.   donis@aasdcs.org
     
  • A MESSAGE FROM UNION PLUS (ALL AASD MEMBERS IN GOOD STANDING AND SELECT AFFILIATE AND RETIRED MEMBERS ARE MEMBERS OF UNION PLUS VIA AFSA)
    Union Plus Direct Help for Our Members.  If your family has been directly impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic, please visit Union Plus’ Hardship Help Section at     https://www.unionplus.org/hardship-help/union-plus-hardship-help-benefits?utm_source=enews&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=03-26-20,
     
  • IMPORTANT - PERSONAL EMAIL ADDRESS.  AASD communicates with members via  personal e-mail address.  We do not communicate via "sandi.net."  If you know of a colleague that is not receiving the Update, or if your personal email address changes, please remember to notify AASD by e-mailing our Office Clerk, Jim Costello, at Jim@aasdcs.org.  
     
  • ASSOCIATION OF CA SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS (ACSA) 2020 SCHOLARSHIPS.  Attached please find the 2020 Student Scholarship letter and application form.  Region 18 and the San Diego County School Boards Association are pleased to offer ten (10) $1,000 scholarships as a result of donations made by both organizations and a major donation from David Wignall with Harper Rand. Applications must be postmarked by April 30.  
          There is a correction to the application mailing address:    
          P.O. BOX 12436, EL CAJON, CA 92022
  • UNION PLUS - MONEY-SAVING PROGRAMS FOR AFSA MEMBERS!
    For all our Members in Good Standing, and Affiliates and Retirees who have selected to be members of AFSA, there are many money-saving programs offered to you.      Click here to review your many options! 

    AFSA membership is provided to all AASD Members in Good Standing at no additional cost. For more information regarding AFSA and Union Plus benefits, please visit their website:  https://www.theschoolleader.org/

    IMPORTANT:  For Members in Good Standing and Affiliate Members who have added AFSA  --  If you have not turned in the “Combined AFSA Benefits Information Form,” please submit the form immediately.  This form must be submitted in order to be eligible for the professional liability, legal services, etc.  You do not need to list your full social security number on the form; however, AFSA has requested that you provide at least the last four digits.  For a copy of the form, click here
     
  • IMPORTANT – ELECTRONIC LINK AVAILABLE!  FILL OUT YOUR AASD MEMBERSHIP RECOMMITMENT FORM NOW!  This information pertains to current AASD members who were AASD members prior to June 28, 2018.  It does NOT apply to Affiliate members or Retired members.  Many have asked how to “re-join” AASD in light of the Supreme Court Decision, Janus v. AFSCME.  If you were an AASD member on June 27, 2018, per the Decision, you automatically stayed as an AASD "Member in Good Standing" and will remain so.  However, we are asking all AASD members to re-commit to AASD by completing the google form (link below). This re-confirms your AASD membership and ensures that you have access to the benefits of being an AASD member – legal representation, AASD representation, discounted services, scholarships for your children, professional development reimbursements, etc. 

    Some of you have already filled out the new membership form over the past year – if so, it is not necessary to complete it again.  If you have any questions regarding the re-commitment form, please contact the AASD office at 619-295-2118 or e-mail one of the AASD staff members for assistance.  Thank you in advance for your commitment to our Union – AASD.    

    https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQN05VdAieFTxevIu1yg5L_03zLGgIWt3Xl4Igv-Horazxcg/viewform 

    To review the benefits of being an AASD member, please Click here. 
     
  • AASD COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENTS POSTED ON THE AASD WEBSITE. The collective bargaining agreements (contracts) for the AASD classified unit and the AASD certificated unit are posted on the AASD website.  The District no longer provides a hard copy to AASD members.  You are welcome to view the contracts on our website and feel free to print a copy, if you wish. To view the contracts, visit the AASD website at www.aasdcs.org and click on Governance/Contracts or Collective Bargaining/Contracts.
     
  • AASD WEBSITE!  Click here www.aasdcs.org  to view our website.  The website is kept up-to-date and current for all of our members (members in good standing, retirees and affiliate members).  Visit the website to view the AASD calendar and for forms and information on our Union, as well as discounts for members.

    If you have any feedback on the  website, please e-mail     jim@aasdcs.org with your comments.  We hope our website is a great resource for you!
     
  • ESTATE PLANNING – DISCOUNT FOR AASD MEMBERS!   AASD has a partnership with Greg Runge, Estate Planning Attorney.  Greg is an estate planning attorney with approximately 10 years of experience practicing in the areas of wills, trusts, durable powers of attorney and advance health care directives. In addition to his legal work, Greg is also currently a Lieutenant with a local police department, where he is in his 19th year of service as a sworn officer. As a public employee, Greg is very aware of the unique estate planning issues that can come into play with our members. Greg has focused his legal practice on providing essential estate planning services to public employees and their families at an affordable rate.  This benefit is available to all AASD Members in Good Standing, AASD Affiliate Members and AASD Retired Members.  Greg is offering this service to our members for a flat fee of $750, which is 50% off the going rate for estate planning (very complex or very large estates may require a higher fee that would be individually negotiated with the member).  To contact Greg Runge, please e-mail gregrunge@gmail.com or call (858) 395-4011 and be sure to mention you are an AASD member so you receive the discounted rate.
     
  • MEMBERSHIP IN THE ASSOCIATION OF CALIFORNIA SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS (ACSA). 
    There are many benefits of being an ACSA Member – as detailed in this handout. (click on link)   Dues are deducted 10 times a year (September-June).

    If AASD members are interested in membership with ACSA, please complete the application     (click on link)  and return it via e-mail to Deborah Burke, ACSA, at dburke@acsa.org.
     
  • AASD PROFESSIONAL GROWTH GRANT.  The Administrators Association San Diego City Schools (AASD), in conjunction with the San Diego Unified School District, provides financial grants to members to assist them in their professional growth. Unit members who participate in professional development activities related to job-connected skills or potential careers with the District may qualify to have the cost of registration fees defrayed by available funds up to $100. This includes ACSA-sponsored Academies, Conferences and Institutes. Click here  for more details. 
     
  • "BENEFIT HUB"  Benefit Hub is an online discount program.  All AASD members have access to thousands of discounts which allows you to save on everything from movies and theme parks to restaurants and sporting events. 

    This free service provides discounts to car rental companies, theme parks, hotels, and entertainment destinations (i.e., San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Universal Studios, Sea World, etc.). Register online to take advantage of these terrific discounts.  Special offers and discounts are always changing, so check back frequently.  You can purchase and print tickets from the convenience of your home. 

    The Benefits Portal - In addition to discounts and specials, BenefitHub also offers CASH BACK on some products and services!  Get to know the benefit portal by visiting the BenefitHub website.  The site is very user friendly.  It is easy to do a search under various headings and categories, including Newest, Most Popular, Local Deals, Health and Wellness and Pay Over Time,  just to name a few.  

    NEW Benefit Hub Service - Gift Card Outlet - Save up to 15% on gift cards from over 70 popular merchants.  The NEW Gift Card Outlet is in the Discount Marketplace.

    Enter the following address in the browser bar, with no leading  w's -     aasd.benefithub.com Do not do a "search" for Benefit Hub as it will take you to the wrong website.  Click on "Guest" at the upper right-hand side of the screen. Fill in the information and create a password.  If you have any questions about registering, or encounter any problems, call the AASD office for assistance.  If you have any questions about or need assistance with the Benefit Hub website, you can contact Support at (866) 664-4621.
     
  • AASD Contact Information During the District Closure:
    Executive Director, Donis Coronel -- donis@aasdcs.org   619-813-8792
    Office Manager, Linda Crout-Hamel -- linda@aasdcs.org   619-861-2701
    Office Clerk, Jim Costello -- jim@aasdcs.org
     
    Please keep informed via the District’s website www.sandi.net, Daily and Weekly  Updates from AASD and via the AASD Website www.aasdcs.org.
     

Contacts
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