A critical moment for ProComp
Tuesday, August 19, 2008Written by: Uncle Charley
The next three days likely will comprise a critical moment in the showdown over the future of ProComp and education reform in Denver, as mediation takes place between DPS and DCTA to settle the disputed contract.
As Alexander Ooms skillfully pointed out, the natural and traditional advantage in these types of bargaining situations goes to the union. But the leadership of DPS may not be your typical school district leadership, and in some ways they have pushed DCTA back on its heels in the public relations battle. (Of course, they owe more than a little thanks to the teachers on the ground who are fed up with the union’s position.)
Yet anyone who doubts the ability of union leaders to overcome their tough situation and manipulate events to their advantage should think again. Whether or not DCTA officials can regain public momentum in these negotiations hinges on the first and primary piece of their plan, as they rally members to persuade parents to “Stand With Us” before and after school tomorrow.
Hey, at least they’re not foolish enough to make things happen during the school day, when you know, students should be learning. And kudos to the union as well for not taking a second stab at the “Doughnut Diplomacy” strategy (though it sure sounds tasty), though the “milk-through-the-nose” silly radio ad strategy has grown tiresome.
By the time the major newspapers hit the stands on Thursday, we should have a decent idea how well the DCTA’s political theater has played. My best hopes aside, it appears that nothing short of serious public shame will get either side to back down at this point.
For the sake of the kids and the peace of the city, it would be best that the union does not opt for a strike—especially during the Democratic National Convention. Students need teachers in the classroom, and besides, I’m not sure what sort of angry response might be unleashed if picketing teachers stole some of the spotlight from folks like these.
