Terminology

Arbitration – A dispute resolution process where a neutral third party (arbitrator) hears both sides of a dispute and makes a binding decision. Arbitration is commonly used for resolving grievances.

BCPSEA – BC Public School Employers’ Association is the accredited bargaining agent for school boards in British Columbia. This organization plays a critical role in the labour relations landscape of public education in the province.

BCTF – The British Columbia Teachers’ Federation (BCTF) is the union representing public school teachers in British Columbia. Founded in 1917, the BCTF plays a vital role in advocating for the rights and working conditions of teachers, as well as promoting quality public education in the province. The Delta Teachers’ Association (#37) is a Local Branch of the BCTF.

Collective Agreement – A contract between the employer (BCPSEA representing the school boards) and the union (BCTF or CUPE) outlining the terms and conditions of employment, including salaries, benefits, working conditions, and other employment terms.

Continuing Assignment – An assignment that continues indefinitely, so long as the teacher is above the layoff line or not suplussed.

DOC – District on Call is similar to a TTOC but enjoys the salary and benefits of a contract teacher.  Also DOC assignments are Term Specific.

Experience – Accumulated teaching experience in government inspected schools for the purpose of salary grid placement.

Grievance – A formal complaint by an employee, the union, or the employer, alleging a violation of the Collective Agreement. Grievances can relate to issues like unfair treatment, improper application of contract terms, or other employment concerns.

Job Share – To accommodate two (2) elementary teachers already employed by the District who wish to work part-time by sharing a single assignment. This is different from a partial medical leave resulting in a shared assignment.

Layoff – When the District does not have a sufficient amount of work for all teachers in contracts, they may layoff teachers according to seniority and qualifications. This process is outlined thoroughly in articles C.21, C.22, C.25, C.26 & C.27. Teachers who are in receipt of layoff may be eligible to apply for EI.

Lockout – An action by the employer to prevent employees from working, aimed at exerting pressure on the union during collective bargaining negotiations.

Mediation – A process where a neutral third party (mediator) assists the employer and the union in reaching a mutually acceptable agreement during collective bargaining. Mediation is often used when negotiations stall.

Recall – As work becomes available, teachers who were in receipt of layoff are recalled in order of seniority and qualifications.

Seniority – Years of accumulated service within the BC Public School system. Seniority provides protection from layoff & priority over other teachers for assignments.

Strike – A work stoppage by employees to pressure the employer for improvements during collective bargaining. Strikes are a legal labour action but are typically a last resort after other negotiation methods fail.

Surplussed – When there is an excess of teachers at a worksite.  The teacher with the lowest seniority who is not in receipt of layoff will need to apply for other assignments.

Term Specific Assignment – Assignment more than 40 days, that has an end date.  If the assignment belongs to a continuing teacher (incumbent), it may be reduced or extended depending on the return of the incumbent.

TTOC – A Teacher-Teaching-on-Call is assigned on a day-to-day basis. TTOCs must work a minimum of twenty (20) days in a school year (Sept – June). This is pro-rated to your date of hire.