Spring-cleaning time for old letters in file

May 8, 2008 11:09 AM

With the school year on the wane, and with the Open Market transfer period just beginning, now is a good time to remind members that letters in the file that have not been used in a disciplinary proceeding should be removed “three years from the date the original material is placed in the file,” per Article 21A of the contract. Members have the right to examine their file and should do so once a year ideally to know what’s in it and to have old or inappropriate material removed. In addition, they have the right to photocopy any material in their file. Members should not review their files by themselves; they should take either the chapter leader or a colleague with them when they look at their file. Members should make an appointment with the principal to see the file. The Know Your Rights link at uft.org has more details. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your district representative.