In a landmark decision, the Durham Public Schools Board of Education has approved Policy 7215 - Meet and Confer Committee for Employee Relations by a vote of 4-3 at its April work session. This groundbreaking policy establishes a framework for enhanced collaboration between the district administration and staff, marking a significant shift in employee relations for North Carolina's public education sector.
Here is what to know about Policy 7215:
Groups with at least 6% of non-administrative employee membership will be recognized. An Employee Representative Organization (ERO) must certify its membership and submit notarized certification of its member rolls to the Superintendent by May 31 annually to participate in the Meet and Confer Committee.
This committee, made up of ERO appointees and district appointees, will meet regularly to discuss salary, benefits, personnel policies, and other important issues.
The Superintendent or Deputy Superintendent is the chair, and the majority ERO President or Vice President is the vice-chair.
Meetings are open to the public, and agendas will be shared in advance.
The committee can suggest policy changes to the Superintendent, who can then present them to the Board.
The Board of Education retains final authority for policy and budget decisions.
“This vote to approve Policy 7215 represents a historic moment for Durham Public Schools and potentially for North Carolina as a whole,” said DPS Board Chairwoman Millicent Rogers. “The Meet and Confer policy provides an alternative framework for honoring workers' rights and voices and creates a structured platform for open dialogue on critical issues affecting our staff and students. It demonstrates our commitment to fostering a more inclusive decision-making process and recognizing the vital perspectives our educators bring to the table. We believe this policy will not only enhance employee relations but also contribute to improved educational outcomes for our students. As we implement this groundbreaking approach, we hope it may serve as a model for other districts in our state seeking to strengthen communication and cooperation within their school systems."
Policy 7215 allows the majority ERO to appoint up to 13 active DPS employees to participate in committee meetings, ensuring proportional representation of job categories. The Superintendent may appoint up to 13 individuals to attend committee meetings as well.
"This policy is a significant step towards fostering open dialogue and cooperative problem-solving within our school system and I am ready to work," said DPS Superintendent Dr. Anthony Lewis.