Probationary Period Extension Defeated by School Board

LAST NIGHT, THE GLOUCESTER SCHOOL BOARD DEFEATED THE MOVE TO ALLOW ITSELF TO EXTEND PROBATIONARY PERIODS FOR TEACHERS TO FIVE YEARS. (That's right, five years!) I, as GEA president, argued GEA's position against this policy in the form of questions. A lively discussion ensued among School Board members. All but one opposed this policy, the greatest objections being the lack of requirement to give reasons and a support plan for teachers if their probationary period is extended; and the fact that a THREE YEAR PROBATIONARY PERIOD IS THE MAX IN ANY PROFESSION, SO WHY STRING A TEACHER ALONG FOR FIVE YEARS (without being required to so much as give a reason). Virginia Education Association President Meg Gruber was there along with a cadre of dedicated GEA members whose presence spoke volumes about GEA's opposition to this proposed policy, as well as Colonial UniServ Director, Norm Brown. The lone supporting School Board member made a motion to approve at first reading. (Even if they had voted to approve first reading, the policy would NOT have been adopted last night, but carried over/kept alive to the September meeting . . . Confused, well I am still learning too!) THE MOTION TO APPROVE FIRST READING DID NOT GET A SECOND FROM ANY BOARD MEMBERS, THEREBY KILLING THIS POLICY!! Thank you GEA members and President Meg Gruber for coming out and thank you Gloucester County School Board for supporting its teachers in their mission of serving students and families in Gloucester County.
-Brian