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UTAH EDUCATORS' RIGHTS PAMPHLET
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IX. What To Do About An Employment Problem

DO:

  1. Consult with your Association representative, local president or UniServ director.
  2. Follow the advice given by the UniServ director or the UEA attorney.
  3. Try to resolve the problem at the lowest administrative level usually the building principal.
  4. Prepare a written report of the incident; keep a log where the problem is ongoing. List witnesses.
  5. Request and keep copies of documents, papers, and policies related to the problem.
  6. Follow the district policy on grievances and know the timelines for processing the grievance.
  7. Keep the Association representative, local president or UniServ director informed and current.
  8. Know your rights.

DO NOT   WITHOUT FIRST CONSULTING AN ASSOCIATION REPRESENTATIVE:

  1. Resign.
  2. Give written or verbal statements to anyone about a serious allegation of your misconduct, except school administrators have the authority to direct you to prepare such a statement-failure to follow directions may be insubordination. Ask to see an Association representative before giving a statement. (See X, 2.)
  3. Involve students or parents (unless they are directly involved with the problem). It's unwise for teachers to interview students about an allegation. Often district administrators will direct the educator to not talk to anyone about an incident. Call your UniServ director immediately. You have an absolute right to ask for Association assistance.
  4. Write lengthy accounts to the district or your administrator explaining your side until after you have consulted an Association representative or make statements about serious matters without consulting your Association representative.
  5. Sign any papers or agreements.
  6. Refuse to obey a directive from your supervisor unless you know you have a right to refuse.
  7. Agree to take a polygraph test.
  8. Admit guilt, accept blame, or agree to pay expenses or compensation.
  9. Seek private legal advice with the expectation UEA will pay. UEA pays legal fees only if pre-authorized by the UEA general counsel or the UEA executive director.