This negotiation cycle we’re introducing a new structure for the Bargaining Team with two roles: the Table Team and Bargaining Action Teams (BATs). This structure aims to increase member participation, engagement, and idea-sharing.
The Table Team, formerly known as the Bargaining Team, is tasked with overseeing negotiations of the 2025-2027 contracts. Key responsibilities include reviewing and approving proposals, drafting and presenting proposals affecting all members (such as wages and benefits), and supporting the BATs as needed. Table Team members are expected to attend all internal meetings and negotiation sessions with SPPS administration, meeting weekly, primarily in the evenings, starting in January of 2025. Occasionally, members may need to use Union Business Leave to join daytime bargaining activities. The SPFE Screening Committee will select candidates, including the lead negotiator, for approval by the Executive Board. Table Team applications are due by Monday, January 6th.
The Bargaining Action Teams (BATs) are organized around specific roles, constituencies, interests, or particular negotiation needs, including groups such as Librarians, Deaf and Hard of Hearing teachers, MLL EAs, and others. BAT members are responsible for developing proposals specific to their group’s needs, maintaining regular communication with the Table Team, attending some all-team meetings, and presenting and making decisions on proposals until a tentative agreement is reached. Any interested member can join a BAT at any point during the negotiation process. Members of the Table Team and SPFE staff are available to support BATs as needed.