MEA UniServ Field KNOW YOUR WEINGARTEN RIGHTS Update

September 2013
7-A SODA Office

SODA Council Nancy Rutkowski, Executive Director 248-585-3723 30701 Barrington Ave. Suite 125 Madison Heights, MI. 48071 nrutkowski@mea.org

Weingarten Rights
I have reason to believe this investigatory interview may lead to disciplinary action against me. Therefore, in accordance with my rights under Federal and State Statues, I respectfully request this interview not begin until (1) my Union Representative is present; (2) I am advised of the subject and purpose of the interview; and (3) I have had an opportunity to consult with my Union Representative.

You have a right to Union representation at investigatory interviews. This right was guaranteed for private sector employees by the United States Supreme Court in the 1975 case, NLRB vs. Weingarten, Inc. The right was extended to Michigan public sector employees in 1977 by the Michigan Employment Relations Commission. An investigatory interview occurs when an agent for an employer questions an employee in an attempt to obtain information to be used for disciplinary purposes or other adverse job action. An employer is not required to advise you of your right to Union representation, but that right cannot be denied if you reasonably believe discipline or an adverse job action will result from the discussion and request a Union representative be present.

Association Rep: ___________________________

Building Rep: _____________________________

In addition to your right to have a Union representative present, you and your Union representative have a right to be informed of the subject of the investigatory interview. Prior to the interview, you and your representative have the right to discuss the matter privately.
Executive Director: Nancy Rutkowski, (248) 585-3723

During the interview, your Union representative has the right to assist and counsel you. A Union representative cannot tell you what to say during an investigatory interview, but may advise you on how to answer a question. The Union representative may also clarify confusing questions and object to intimidating tactics by the employer. You have a right to be represented and assisted during an investigatory interview in which you reasonably believe discipline or an adverse job action will result. Your Association Representatives and Building Representatives are there to assist you when these situations arise. USE THEM!

Videos answer questions about certification and highly qualified

MEAs Professional Development/Human Rights (PD/HR) Department has produced three videos on teacher certification and highly qualified teachers. The three videos Certification Overview, Renewing an Advanced Certificate, and Highly Qualified Teacher are narrated by Frank Ciloski, PD/HR Consultant. They are available at http://www.mea.org/certification. We get many calls about certification now with school starting. The videos are meant to guide teachers through the certification process in a clear and comprehensive way, said Ciloski.

Certification Overview presents a basic primer on Michigans revised rules for certification. Renewing an Advanced Certificate covers the new rules which went into effect on May 18, 2012. Highly Qualified Teacher explains the qualifications needed to earn that designation.

MEA LAUNCHES NEW HELP CENTER FOR MEMBERS

The MEA has launched a HELP CENTER to provide members with quick and convenient member services. Members can simply call 866-MEA-HELP (866-632-4357) or get live support at www.mea.org to receive quick answers on questions such as: Does the MEA have resources to help me serve my students better? What is going on in the Legislature and how can I help? Who can I call to get advice? How do I get a new membership card to obtain discounts? Who can I call to get advice on my retirement? Can MEA help save me money on insurance? And anything else you can think of.

Next time you have a question about how the MEA can help you, get your answer by phone or e-mail from the MEA Help Center your one stop shop for members-only support from MEA.

"The mission of the MEA is to ensure that the education of our students and the working environments of our members are of the highest quality."