American Federation of Teachers - 6064 Rochester Assoc of Paraprofess

State of The union address may 9, 2023angie rivera rap- presidentthe Rochester Association of Paraprofessionals is in good standing. Wehave fulfilled our financial obligations to our affiliates nysut, aft, nea, afl-cio, and other creditors. This year we had a high turnover rate. Members retired, resigned, or terminated, at The same time there were many new hires coming into these positions. The district has been hiring all year long. We have 41 new para positions projected for next school year. We have been collaborating with The district to support Paraprofessionals looking to become certified teaching assistants. The members are reimbursed for The expenses related to The cost of being certified. This is in response of The shortage of certified tas in The district. We are hoping to have every ta position filled in september.we are committed to offer professional development to all our members. This year we offered 28 professional development sessions, three dasa trainings and two rap summits. The district continues to offer more professional learning during superintendent's day.this year we filed five grievances on behalf of our members. Three of were decided in favor of The grievant and two were denied. One of those we are still fighting it. We always tried to resolve issues at The lowest level and file when necessary.rap is in The last of a two-year contract agreement with The rcsd. We are in open negotiations and moving along. So far, we have had five productive meetings and have three more in The books. We will continue to fight for better salaries, better working conditions and respect for our members.we are a strong union when we fight together and support each other. Thank you all for what you do every day.