CAT Tracks for March 9, 2004 MARCH MADNESS - CAIRO STYLE

I intentionally did not put out a CAT Tracks after last night's RIF "negotiations". However, questions from concerned bargaining unit members this morning clearly indicate a need to address the situation.

What was presented by the District team (within the parameters established by the Financial Oversight Panel) was totally unworkable. There was a certified "body count" of twenty-five, including 21 CAT bargaining unit members. All told, the District indicated that of approximately 115 District employees, only 53 will survive the Wednesday night BOE meeting.

In order NOT to RIF positions that are hard to find but to RIF a number of employees to cover grant funds, the District eliminated whole departments. (Last year, the CAT protested District plans to have ONE teacher for sixty-three students. This year, the plan provides for NO teacher for even more students!)

The CAT voiced its objection to putting people through another round of firings/hirings...and the possibility of losing quality employees. The District team expressed its understanding...but said that it had no recourse.

Personnel to be RIFed are to be personally informed on Tuesday and Wednesday.