The Harborfields Central School District Registered Nurses joined UPSEU in the end of the school year of 2011. The small unit of four full time registered nurses had a two page document that listed their entitlements but their wage increases were unilaterally granted by the district each year until they joined UPSEU.

"The nurses felt undervalued in their annual salaries considering their experience and years of service. The lack of discussion for a 2010 wage increase was the tipping point for action. Not only were they at the mercy of the district for annual wage increases, but a two page listing of entitlements isn’t enforceable since it wasn’t an actual contract,” recalled UPSEU Regional Director Kim Nowakowski.
 

With the help of Kim Nowakowski as the negotiator, and Labor Relations Representative Amanda Barker, the new unit negotiated for a contract which incorporated their entitlements, as well as annual wage increases retroactive to July 1, 2011. Along with the annual increases, they will receive a longevity increase at the 15 year level and base salary industry wage adjustments in the second and third year of the agreement. The agreement also established a long term disability plan. “The RNs saw the impact we have with representing other bargaining units in their district and made the right decision to join us too. This unit is now protected and has a strong voice through UPSEU,” said Amanda Barker.

Special thanks to these new Registered Nurse members, Carol Calev, Deborah Fallenberg, Ilene Kalmar, and Joan Verado for their patience and persistence during this process.