PGCEA has been working with the district to come up with opportunities to provide employees some level of relief during the fiscal crisis that the district is working through. As a result of our discussions with the district, the November 1, 2010 and April 1, 2011 grading days will be designated as work from home days for all Unit 1 employees. These are paid work days and not furlough days. Grades will not be due until close of business on the scheduled grading day.

The January 24, 2011 grading day is still scheduled as a furlough day and employees should plan accordingly. January 24 is one of the four days designated as a furlough for ten-month employees. The days designated were and are August 16, September 25, January 24 and March 24.

It is important to note that in order for PGCEA to continue to negotiate such an arrangement, employees must respond by getting all grades in on time. A failure to do so will result in the loss of this opportunity in the future. If, for some reason, there are technical problems with the system, and we have had those in the past, we will work through them. Barring such problems, the obligation of our members is to complete the work timely.

PGCEA and PGCPS will continue to look for other opportunities to acknowledge the work of our members.