Advice You Need to Save Your Job in an Emergency

1.  Do Your Job Well!!

The best defense in any emergency is that you were doing your job to the best of your abilities and knowledge. If your boss wants to discipline you, then he should have already done his job by informing you of his concerns beforehand, especially when critism comes up during your appraisal or evaluation. You should not be surprised! Always use your best judgement, especially when working with or around students.

2.  Do Not Resign!!

You CANNOT rescind a resignation! Even if you are threatened with termination, do not resign. Ask for time to decide; then call 1-877-ASK-TSTA.  Resigning may be your best option in some cases, but you will have no option if you put your signature on a resignation letter. Don't be tricked into resigning in lieu of termination by your boss - only the Executive Director of Human Resources can terminate you.

3.  Watch Those Timelines!

Don't wait to get advice if you have a concern. When in doubt, call the union as soon as an issue comes up. You may be waiving your right to make a rebuttal if 10 workdays pass, or to present a formal grievance if 15 workdays go by. Your staff can get creative in some instances and argue that a situation is "ongoing," but don't take that chance!

4.  Ask for Representation!

You are entitled to representation when you bring a concern forward, but not necessarily any time you are called into the office by the principal. As your boss, he can  talk to you without your rep, but it never hurts to ask - it might save your supervisor from a second meeting later.

5.  Comply Now , Grieve Later!

If you are asked to do something you think is unfair, or   may even violate policy, the best rule is to comply now and grieve later. Exceptions: If it is dangerous or illegal, you should refuse. But in most cases, don't risk insubordination. If you are asked to sign something that is wrong or that you don't like, add a line indicating that you disagree BEFORE you put your signature on it, but do sign it to indicate receipt (and get your own copy).

6. Document! Document! Document!

If you have a difficult administrator, a difficult student, or a difficult parent, keep a record of incidents and your attempts to resolve issues. It is essential when you need to invoke the Safe Schools Act; it is also critical if you need to defend yourself. Write letters confirming important conversations with administrators. Make all required requests and responses in writing. Be sure to date it and save  a clean copy. When in doubt, WRITE IT DOWN.

7.  Know When to Call  the Union

If it is serious, an accusation of child abuse, an employee termination, an injury on the job - call 1-877-ASK-TSTA immediately or email david.robinson2@fwisd.org to get professional help.