Union Protects the Rights of Members During Layoff Hearings: Day Three - Union Advocacy

By Matt Corcoran & Ed Sibby

ASTA Communications Director & CTA Communications Consultant

Thursday morning began with Judge Sawyer confirming to teachers that the hearing would be extended five additional days: May 2, 14, 20, 22, and 23. The updated schedule means that Anaheim teachers will be kept out of the classroom during the final days of the 2023-24 school year.

The news was met with shock and disappointment by the educators who have been forced to spend their days in seemingly endless court proceedings rather than providing the instruction necessary to guide their students across the finish line as summer approaches.

The hearing continued with Reinhold further addressing inconsistencies in the district’s “skip” process, highlighting teachers who held similar training and credentials but who experienced different outcomes. Jensen acknowledged that errors were made during the tiebreaker process which lead to some teachers erroneously receiving final layoff notices.

Despite direct questioning from CTA counsel regarding specific areas of confusion and opacity, the district representative repeatedly referenced his need to research the district’s decision to lay off some teachers while “skipping” others with the same credential, training, and experience.

Cross-examination continued as CTA Conflict Attorney Jean Shin, representing a portion of those Anaheim teachers who were identified for a “skip,” further clarified the number of RIF notices distributed versus the anticipated number of layoffs. Shin questioned the lack of logic in the district’s decision to forgo recissions of members not slated to be given final notices.

Despite feelings of stress and anxiety, ASTA members rallied together in solidarity throughout the day’s proceedings.

Breakfast was provided by Katella High staff, Community Schools Lead Diana Gomez, and the Garden Grove Education Association while Katella High teacher Emily Farr purchased ice cream for members to enjoy as an afternoon treat. ASTA once again provided lunch for the nearly 200 educators who continue to struggle with the uncertainty of their futures.
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ASTA will continue to stand in support of our members to hold the district to a fair and transparent process as the RIF hearing extends into its second week.