WEAC Bargaining Certificate

WEAC Bargaining Certificate recognizes expertise

WEAC members who complete a thorough regimen of specified training can now earn a Bargaining Certificate that verifies their advanced bargaining skills and recognizes their accomplishment.

“This program provides guidance to bargainers seeking a comprehensive sequence of instruction, creates an incentive to complete those training experiences, gives recognition to those who have made the effort, and helps locals identify members who are prepared to lead in this crucial area,” said WEAC President Stan Johnson.

He said about half of Wisconsin’s PK-12 teachers will be eligible to retire in the next 10 years, which will lead to a sharp turnover in experienced bargainers. At the same time, many experienced UniServ directors – who assist in local bargains – are retiring.

“This will help ensure that we continue to have skilled negotiators representing our members at the bargaining table,” Johnson said.

Under the program, training is being offered at the WEAC Summer Academy, WEAC Winter Conference, and regional UniServ trainings. These trainings, some of which already exist, will be aligned with the Bargaining Certificate program. Conference materials will identify which courses are offered for credit in the certificate program. Future online training opportunities are also being explored.

To register for the program, print out the application form and mail it to WEAC Collective Bargaining, P.O. Box 8003, Madison WI 53708.

The Collective Bargaining Division will enter you in the database and begin tracking credits you have earned toward the requirements of the Bargaining Certificate. For more information, contact Jeff Leverich at leverichj@weac.org.

To earn the Bargaining Certificate, members will have to complete a specific set of course work, which will be taught by negotiations specialists, selected UniServ directors, and seasoned negotiators. In some instances, course completion may be verified by an online follow-up review and test. Participants will have to demonstrate accomplishment, not just registration or attendance.

The curriculum includes:

• Beginning Bargaining.
• Advanced Bargaining.
• Organizing.
• Contract Enforcement (Beginning Grievance Track or designated introductory course).
• School Finance.
• Electives in each of the following areas:
  • Economics and education (e.g., TEF).
  • PI 34 (designated course or approved mentor training).
  • Other education issues

Posted January 30, 2007