Just a brief Check-In and a reminder that Halifax County local members (all three local are now on board) are being asked to join a CUPE picket line (or create a picket off school property) this Thursday on your lunch hour (non-instructional time) to show our support for our striking colleagues. Also, please see the Announcements and note that our next local meeting is set for June 7th at 6pm (supper at 5:30pm) at the Legion in Sackville.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Nominations
Nominations Committee is extending the standing local committee applications until Monday, May 29 at 4 pm in order to gather to fill committees for next year and develop at wait-list. Please note that current committee members MUST APPLY for next year’s committees. The link to the form is below:
Where rivers meet, Ta’n a’sikatikl sipu’l | Confluence, encourages an ongoing dialogue about connection and exchange. It has been built on themes inspired by the work of selected First Nations, Inuit, and Métis artists mainly from the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia’s Permanent Collection. This exhibition highlights seven guiding topics that collectively build caring relationships: Awareness, Reflection, Sustainability & Treaty, Community, Memory & Remembering, Gathering & Knowledge, and Sharing.
Ta’n a’sikatikl sipu’l | Confluence celebrates works by 25 Indigenous artists practicing here on Mi’kma’ki (Mi’kmaq Territory) and activates engagement between generations through the Mi’kma’ki Artists’ Spotlight. This exhibition also includes (Tea)chings, a space for artwork created through Indigenous-centred programing by community members of all ages.
We will meet at 2:15 for a 2:30 start at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia (1723 Hollis Street, Halifax, NS B3J 1V9) for a 1.5 hour guided tour of the exhibit followed by snacks in the private conference room on site from 4:00-5:00pm. We are looking forward to seeing you all there!
Halifax County Bursaries are given to the children/stepchildren of Halifax County Local members (not PSAANS members) who are currently (2022-23) teaching in a term or permanent position. Applicants must be graduating from High School in June 2023. This bursary must be used for enrollment in secondary education in September 2023 and cannot be deferred to another school year. The amount received by each recipient will be dependent on how many applications are received in total. The deadline for application is Friday, May 26th, 2023.
Successful applicants will be notified by email after the deadline of Friday, May 26th, 2023. Due to confidentiality, all correspondence will be between the applicant (not a parent) and the Halifax County Local Treasurer only. Applicants are responsible for keeping the confirmation notification that is received once the Google form is completed. Successful applicants will be asked to supply their Confirmation of Enrollment for a September 2023 start by September 22nd, 2023 in order to receive the funds. Failure to submit the required document by the deadline will forfeit the funds to be shared amongst the applicants who completed the requirements.
Jodie MacIlreith
Treasurer
Halifax County Local NSTU
It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement
Regional
ARTICLE 14 – UNION REPRESENTATION
14.01 Every teacher shall have the right to Union representation at any meeting called for disciplinary purposes by supervisory personnel.
14.02 A meeting for disciplinary purposes shall be understood to mean a meeting convened for the purpose of dealing with a verbal or written warning or reprimand, a suspension or the dismissal of the teacher. Any meeting in which it is not intended to deal with any of the aforementioned disciplines shall not be considered a meeting for disciplinary purposes.
14.03 Notwithstanding Article 14.01, any meeting called by an Administrator and which in the course of the conversation results in information being shared, the impact of which may result in discipline for the teacher, then such meeting shall cease and the teacher shall be given the opportunity to have a Union representative present at the ensuing meeting.
14.04 The teacher shall be notified in advance of any meeting pursuant to Article 14.01 as to the purpose of the said meeting and the teacher shall have the opportunity to contact the Local President or NSTU central office for representation at the meeting.
14.05 If a teacher does not avail themselves of the opportunity pursuant to Article 14.04 or refuses Union representation, any discipline imposed by the Regional Centre at the meeting shall not be held to be invalid for that reason.
NSTU Benefits at a Glance
OPTIONAL BENEFITS AVAILABLE TO MEMBERS
There are a number of optional benefits available to Public School Members, PSAANS and APSEA Members that provide the opportunity to purchase additional insurance coverage through payroll deduction, including:
These coverages are 100% paid by the member and are offered at competitive premium rates. Details on these programs are contained within the Group Insurance Profile via the NSTU Group Insurance Trust website at nstuinsurance.ca
Our CUPE colleagues are entering into a new school week on the picket lines. Please encourage members to show their support for these important workers to the system. The local has gotten out to 4 of the picket lines in the County area to both picket and drop of some line supplies (water and granola bars) and the striking CUPE members were very appreciative.
Members are also reminded to be aware of the memo from the central NSTU regarding the strike; and any members with specific questions or concerns are asked to reach out to their NSTU staff officer, Wally Fiander, at wfiander@staff.nstu.ca or call 1-800-565-6788/902-477-5621 and ask to speak to Wally.
The local had a Provincial Executive election for Halifax County this past Wednesday. Grant Frost was elected to one of the local’s 2 Provincial Executive positions. The local would like to congratulate Grant and thank all the other candidates Shelley, Tina, Shawn. Jen and Lara for putting their names forward in service to the local and the NSTU.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Facebook Contest
We will be having a draw between May 15th and June 9th for the County Members that have joined our new Facebook group. For the first two weeks, we will randomly draw names of the members that have joined our group since the fall. For the last two weeks, we will draw winners from new members that sign up after May 15th. Please join and invite other Halifax County members to join our Facebook group.
Suzanne Rohland
VP Communications
Halifax County Local NSTU
Zoom Session for TPP and Term Round Teachers
Topic: Information Session for Teachers Headed to TPP & Term Rounds Time: May 31, 2023 04:00 PM Halifax
Where rivers meet, Ta’n a’sikatikl sipu’l | Confluence, encourages an ongoing dialogue about connection and exchange. It has been built on themes inspired by the work of selected First Nations, Inuit, and Métis artists mainly from the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia’s Permanent Collection. This exhibition highlights seven guiding topics that collectively build caring relationships: Awareness, Reflection, Sustainability & Treaty, Community, Memory & Remembering, Gathering & Knowledge, and Sharing.
Ta’n a’sikatikl sipu’l | Confluence celebrates works by 25 Indigenous artists practicing here on Mi’kma’ki (Mi’kmaq Territory) and activates engagement between generations through the Mi’kma’ki Artists’ Spotlight. This exhibition also includes (Tea)chings, a space for artwork created through Indigenous-centred programing by community members of all ages.
We will meet at 2:15 for a 2:30 start at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia (1723 Hollis Street, Halifax, NS B3J 1V9) for a 1.5 hour guided tour of the exhibit followed by snacks in the private conference room on site from 4:00-5:00pm. We are looking forward to seeing you all there!
The Nominations Committee has now opened nominations for various local executive positions and the application form for next year’s standing committees. Click on each link below to access the appropriate form. Note: all nominations and submissions are due by Friday, May 19 at 4pm.
Also, our local is able to sponsor one interested member to be a delegate at Contact 2023. This year’s conference will be held at the University of Prince Edward Island. If you are interested in attending, please forward your name to Jason Jennings our Nominations Chair at HfxConominations@nstu.ca by May 19. There will then be a draw of the applicants to choose the local’s delegate. A second name will be drawn in case an alternate replacement is needed.
The Conference On New Techniques And Classroom Teaching (CONTACT) is a joint project of the NBTA, PEITF, NSTU, and NLTA. PEITF will be hosting the conference this year. The conference theme is “Taking Care: Your Profession, Your Community, Yourself” and will be held at the University of Prince Edward Island in Charlottetown, PEI from August 1-4th, 2023.
Halifax County Bursaries are given to the children/stepchildren of Halifax County Local members (not PSAANS members) who are currently (2022-23) teaching in a term or permanent position. Applicants must be graduating from High School in June 2023. This bursary must be used for enrollment in secondary education in September 2023 and cannot be deferred to another school year. The amount received by each recipient will be dependent on how many applications are received in total. The deadline for application is Friday, May 26th, 2023.
Successful applicants will be notified by email after the deadline of Friday, May 26th, 2023. Due to confidentiality, all correspondence will be between the applicant (not a parent) and the Halifax County Local Treasurer only. Applicants are responsible for keeping the confirmation notification that is received once the Google form is completed. Successful applicants will be asked to supply their Confirmation of Enrollment for a September 2023 start by September 22nd, 2023 in order to receive the funds. Failure to submit the required document by the deadline will forfeit the funds to be shared amongst the applicants who completed the requirements.
Jodie MacIlreith
Treasurer
Halifax County Local NSTU
It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement
(Provincial)
ARTICLE 24 EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
24.01 While the parties consider it desirable that teachers participate in extracurricular activities, it is recognized by the parties bound by this Agreement that any involvement, such as participation, supervision, administration, direction, coaching, by a teacher in extracurricular activities shall be on a voluntary basis.
Just some reminders for this week. Our next local meeting is set for this Wednesday, May 10th at 6pm (supper at 5:30pm) at the Legion in Sackville. Also on May 10th is our local PE election, so be sure to vote and encourage other members to do so. Please also see the Announcements below.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Equity
Equity Event 2023 – Saturday, May 27th
Where rivers meet, Ta’n a’sikatikl sipu’l | Confluence, encourages an ongoing dialogue about connection and exchange. It has been built on themes inspired by the work of selected First Nations, Inuit, and Métis artists mainly from the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia’s Permanent Collection. This exhibition highlights seven guiding topics that collectively build caring relationships: Awareness, Reflection, Sustainability & Treaty, Community, Memory & Remembering, Gathering & Knowledge, and Sharing.
Ta’n a’sikatikl sipu’l | Confluence celebrates works by 25 Indigenous artists practicing here on Mi’kma’ki (Mi’kmaq Territory) and activates engagement between generations through the Mi’kma’ki Artists’ Spotlight. This exhibition also includes (Tea)chings, a space for artwork created through Indigenous-centred programing by community members of all ages.
We will meet at 2:15 for a 2:30 start at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia (1723 Hollis Street, Halifax, NS B3J 1V9) for a 1.5 hour guided tour of the exhibit followed by snacks in the private conference room on site from 4:00-5:00pm. We are looking forward to seeing you all there!
The Nominations Committee has now opened nominations for various local executive positions and the application form for next year’s standing committees. Click on each link below to access the appropriate form. Note: all nominations and submissions are due by Friday, May 19 at 4pm.
Also, our local is able to sponsor one interested member to be a delegate at Contact 2023. This year’s conference will be held at the University of Prince Edward Island. If you are interested in attending, please forward your name to Jason Jennings our Nominations Chair at HfxConominations@nstu.ca by May 19. There will then be a draw of the applicants to choose the local’s delegate. A second name will be drawn in case an alternate replacement is needed.
The Conference On New Techniques And Classroom Teaching (CONTACT) is a joint project of the NBTA, PEITF, NSTU, and NLTA. PEITF will be hosting the conference this year. The conference theme is “Taking Care: Your Profession, Your Community, Yourself” and will be held at the University of Prince Edward Island in Charlottetown, PEI from August 1-4th, 2023.
Halifax County Bursaries are given to the children/stepchildren of Halifax County Local members (not PSAANS members) who are currently (2022-23) teaching in a term or permanent position. Applicants must be graduating from High School in June 2023. This bursary must be used for enrollment in secondary education in September 2023 and cannot be deferred to another school year. The amount received by each recipient will be dependent on how many applications are received in total. The deadline for application is Friday, May 26th, 2023.
Successful applicants will be notified by email after the deadline of Friday, May 26th, 2023. Due to confidentiality, all correspondence will be between the applicant (not a parent) and the Halifax County Local Treasurer only. Applicants are responsible for keeping the confirmation notification that is received once the Google form is completed. Successful applicants will be asked to supply their Confirmation of Enrollment for a September 2023 start by September 22nd, 2023 in order to receive the funds. Failure to submit the required document by the deadline will forfeit the funds to be shared amongst the applicants who completed the requirements.
Jodie MacIlreith
Treasurer
Halifax County Local NSTU
It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement
It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement
(Regional)
ARTICLE 15 SUMMER SCHOOL
15.01 Teachers employed for summer school employment shall be appointed from the teachers employed by the Regional Centre with first consideration given to teachers who taught the course in the immediate preceding school year.
15.02 The rate of salary shall be seventy percent (70%) of the per diem rate applicable to each teacher. The rate of salary shall be as of August 1 of each year.
15.03 The Director of the program shall receive four hundred dollars ($400.00) in addition to the amount stipulated in Article 15.02.
NSTU Benefits at a Glance
The Member Assistance Program (MAP) is a valuable resource for members. Two notable supports in this program are our Counselling Services and the Early Intervention Program.
First, I want to thank our VP of Social Wellness, Gale Doyle and her committee for their hard work this past Annual Council. Our County delegation is so appreciative of all you do. I would also like to thank our VP of Nominations, Jason Jennings, who was our Council Coordinator and our MAL Jonathon Sproul for his help at AC. As well as Turk MacDonald our First VP for submission of our resolutions and also all the delegates for giving up their weekend.
Our next local meeting is set for May 10th at 6pm (supper at 5:30pm) at the Legion in Sackville.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Equity
Please see your Rep for the form regarding an upcoming Equity event Saturday, May27th at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia.
Nominations
The Nominations Committee has now opened nominations for various local executive positions and the application form for next year’s standing committees. Click on each link below to access the appropriate form. Note: all nominations and submissions are due by Friday, May 19 at 4pm.
Also, our local is able to sponsor one interested member to be a delegate at Contact 2023. This year’s conference will be held at the University of Prince Edward Island. If you are interested in attending, please forward your name to Jason Jennings our Nominations Chair at HfxConominations@nstu.ca by May 19. There will then be a draw of the applicants to choose the local’s delegate. A second name will be drawn in case an alternate replacement is needed.
The Conference On New Techniques And Classroom Teaching (CONTACT) is a joint project of the NBTA, PEITF, NSTU, and NLTA. PEITF will be hosting the conference this year. The conference theme is “Taking Care: Your Profession, Your Community, Yourself” and will be held at the University of Prince Edward Island in Charlottetown, PEI from August 1-4th, 2023.
Halifax County Bursaries are given to the children/stepchildren of Halifax County Local members (not PSAANS members) who are currently (2022-23) teaching in a term or permanent position. Applicants must be graduating from High School in June 2023. This bursary must be used for enrollment in secondary education in September 2023 and cannot be deferred to another school year. The amount received by each recipient will be dependent on how many applications are received in total. The deadline for application is Friday, May 26th, 2023.
Successful applicants will be notified by email after the deadline of Friday, May 26th, 2023. Due to confidentiality, all correspondence will be between the applicant (not a parent) and the Halifax County Local Treasurer only. Applicants are responsible for keeping the confirmation notification that is received once the Google form is completed. Successful applicants will be asked to supply their Confirmation of Enrollment for a September 2023 start by September 22nd, 2023 in order to receive the funds. Failure to submit the required document by the deadline will forfeit the funds to be shared amongst the applicants who completed the requirements.
Jodie MacIlreith
Treasurer
Halifax County Local NSTU
It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement
ARTICLE 26 LEAVE FOR INJURY ON DUTY
26.01 (i) When injured in the performance of the teacher’s duties, which duties have been approved by an Education Entity or its representative, the teacher, on application to the Education Entity, shall be placed on leave with full salary until the teacher is medically certified able to continue teaching.
Please remember that the teacher must report the injury immediately to their immediate supervisor (there is a timeline of within 14 calendar days unless incapacitated by the injury) and the leave is for up to 2 years. If the teacher cannot resume their duties after this period they are entitled to sick leave. Any teacher who is injured on duty should also reach out to their local’s NSTU Executive Staff Officer for assistance and interpretation of the article.
Just a brief Check-In this week. As you all would know our colleagues in CUPE have a tentative agreement and will be voting on it in the coming weeks. Let’s continue to support those members in our schools and sites while they vote. Also, our Annual Council is this weekend in Halifax. Thank you to all of the Halifax County members who have given up their weekend for this very important part of our union.
Our next local meeting is set for May 10th at 6pm (supper at 5:30pm) at the Legion in Sackville.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
PD
Cash for Classrooms
The Professional Development Committee would like to remind those who received Cash for Classrooms funds, that all claim forms and receipts are due April 30, 2023. If you have any questions, please contact Shelley Luddington at halifaxcountypd@nstu.ca
Equity
Please see your Rep for a Google link for an Equity event Saturday, May27th at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia.
Nominations
The Nominations Committee has now opened nominations for various local executive positions and the application form for next year’s standing committees. Click on each link below to access the appropriate form. Note: all nominations and submissions are due by Friday, May 19 at 4pm.
Also, our local is able to sponsor one interested member to be a delegate at Contact 2023. This year’s conference will be held at the University of Prince Edward Island. If you are interested in attending, please forward your name to Jason Jennings our Nominations Chair at HfxConominations@nstu.ca by May 19. There will then be a draw of the applicants to choose the local’s delegate. A second name will be drawn in case an alternate replacement is needed.
The Conference On New Techniques And Classroom Teaching (CONTACT) is a joint project of the NBTA, PEITF, NSTU, and NLTA. PEITF will be hosting the conference this year. The conference theme is “Taking Care: Your Profession, Your Community, Yourself” and will be held at the University of Prince Edward Island in Charlottetown, PEI from August 1-4th, 2023.
Halifax County Bursaries are given to the children/stepchildren of Halifax County Local members (not PSAANS members) who are currently (2022-23) teaching in a term or permanent position. Applicants must be graduating from High School in June 2023. This bursary must be used for enrollment in secondary education in September 2023 and cannot be deferred to another school year. The amount received by each recipient will be dependent on how many applications are received in total. The deadline for application is Friday, May 26th, 2023.
Successful applicants will be notified by email after the deadline of Friday, May 26th, 2023. Due to confidentiality, all correspondence will be between the applicant (not a parent) and the Halifax County Local Treasurer only. Applicants are responsible for keeping the confirmation notification that is received once the Google form is completed. Successful applicants will be asked to supply their Confirmation of Enrollment for a September 2023 start by September 22nd, 2023 in order to receive the funds. Failure to submit the required document by the deadline will forfeit the funds to be shared amongst the applicants who completed the requirements.
Jodie MacIlreith
Treasurer
Halifax County Local NSTU
It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement
Provincial
ARTICLE 40 IN-PROVINCE TEACHER EXCHANGE PROGRAM
40.01 There shall be an in-province job exchange program as set forth in Appendix C.
40.02 Proposed exchanges pursuant to 40.01 are subject to the approval by participating Education Entities and/or the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development.
40.03 Matters relating to an Education Entity’s and/or the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development’s participation in the exchange program pursuant to 40.01 and decisions made by the participating Education Entities and/or the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development pursuant to 40.02 shall not be grievable or negotiable at the local level.
NSTU Benefits at a Glance
Teachers’ Guide to Disability Benefits
Attached is a link to the pamphlet with a comprehensive view of all benefits available to you should you become disabled.
Over the past few weeks members have been sending in questions and concerns about the potential of a strike by employees who are members of The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). This was on the agenda at the March 31st President’s Conference agenda and local presidents were told at the time that central NSTU would provide guidance to members once a strike was imminent. Many local presidents, myself included, have asked for an update as it appears the Centre is setting in place their contingency plans for a possible CUPE strike.
Members with concerns, in the interim, are asked to reach out to their local NSTU staff officer. Our NSTU staff officer is Wally Fiander and his email is wfiander@staff.nstu.ca please make sure to email Wally from a non-employer email and it would be beneficial to include your school. Members can also call central office at (902)477-5621 (toll free 1-800-565-6788) and ask to speak to Wally or another staff officer in Member Services.
Wally has been responding to many member’s questions these past few weeks regarding members questions on duties/expectations that may be asked of them in the event of a strike. Any member with a specific concern should reach out to him directly.
Educational workers in the Valley and South Shore were on strike, or threatening to go on strike, and central NSTU was able to assist members with similar questions and concerns during that job action by support workers. This may be similar, but on a somewhat larger scale.
Again, I know this is a stressful situation with a lot of unknowns, but please know central NSTU is well aware of these concerns and able to answer any questions you may have.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Education Week
Education Week 2023 is this week and this year’s theme is: Active Learning = Engagement. Many of our County schools promote active learning, so it is no surprise that this years County recipient is Tamara Julian a physical educator from Oyster Pond Academy From Oyster Pond, which is down our beautiful Eastern Shore. Congratulations Tamara. Tamara will be attending the Education Week ceremony today at Halifax West at 3pm. A live stream of the event can be found at this link: https://vimeo.com/event/3308655
The 2023 Halifax County Bursary is OPEN
https://forms.gle/kVqKEGe8dAMZP98VA
Halifax County Bursaries are given to the children/stepchildren of Halifax County Local members (not PSAANS members) who are currently (2022-23) teaching in a term or permanent position. Applicants must be graduating from High School in June 2023. This bursary must be used for enrollment in secondary education in September 2023 and cannot be deferred to another school year. The amount received by each recipient will be dependent on how many applications are received in total. The deadline for application is Friday, May 26th, 2023.
Successful applicants will be notified by email after the deadline of Friday, May 26th, 2023. Due to confidentiality, all correspondence will be between the applicant (not a parent) and the Halifax County Local Treasurer only. Applicants are responsible for keeping the confirmation notification that is received once the Google form is completed. Successful applicants will be asked to supply their Confirmation of Enrollment for a September 2023 start by September 22nd, 2023 in order to receive the funds. Failure to submit the required document by the deadline will forfeit the funds to be shared amongst the applicants who completed the requirements.
Jodie MacIlreith
Treasurer
Halifax County Local NSTU
It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement
Provincial
ARTICLE 41 AMENDMENT BY MUTUAL CONSENT
41.01 This Agreement may be amended at any time by mutual consent of both parties.
NSTU Benefits at a Glance
Manulife Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
ATTENTION: Resilience has been rebranded to Manulife Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) We are excited to share some enhancements as well as a rebrand of our Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP). Our partner, Manulife Financial, has launched a new and improved interactive online platform making it easier to get the support you need, when you need it, in a way that works best for you!
This updated experience means that the Resilience® platform and brand you are accustomed to will no longer be active and you will be redirected to the updated platform Manulife Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) at www.manulifeEFAP.com.
* Please note If you had already had a profile and account created with Resilience® , you will need to re-register on the updated platform. In order to register you will require the Manulife Plan Contract # 39146.
The Manulife Employee and Family Assistance Program is for active NSTU members who have a permanent, probationary or term contract. Through the Manulife EFAP you can reach a team of experienced counsellors from Homewood Health™ who will listen to your issue, offer sound advice and help you create an action plan to address issues.
Manulife EFAP also has a very educational online platform and mobile app which offers:
Easy access to content, such as eLearning, articles, videos and podcasts on a wide range of topics, based on your profile and interests
24/7 live chat with Homewood Health™ counsellors
E-counselling and E-therapy
To get started or to find out more information visit www.manulifeEFAP.com. Once there, you can register by first entering the Manulife Plan Contract # 39146. Then complete the remaining fields and click “Sign up”.
*It is strongly recommended to use a personal email and not a work related email when dealing with matters relating to the Manulife EFAP. You must create an account on the EFAP website platform (www.manulifeEFAP.com) first before downloading the mobile app.
Services
Counselling Services
Stress
Marital/family/separation/divorce/custody issues
Alcohol and drug abuse
Personal adjustment problems
Psychological disorders
Anger management
Retirement planning
Aging parents/eldercare concerns
Sexual harassment
Gambling addiction
Conflict resolution
Bereavement
Weight, smoking and general health issues
The counselling is designed to: Provide support and understanding, help build coping skills, and teach ways to effectively manage issues and problems.
Lifestyle and Specialty Coaching Services
Designed to allow you to take a proactive approach to every challenge and life transition with information and coaching from experts in their field.
Childcare and Parenting Caregiver Support Services
Elder & Family Care Services
Legal Advisory Services
Financial Advisory Services
Nutritional Support
Career Counselling Services
Retirement Planning Service
Smoking Cessation Services
Shift Worker Support
Online Courses
12 Weeks to Wellness
Stress Solutions
Provides assistance for individuals suffering from stress.
The COVID-19 pandemic continue to add a great deal of stress to us all. Stress Solutions can support you through these challenging times by assigning you a counsellor who will establish contact and support with Telephone sessions, Coaching, Online Courses, etc.
For more information on Stress Solutions, click here.
Depression Care Services
Provides assistance for individuals suffering from certain types of depression.
Approximately 11% of men and 16% of women in Canada will experience major depression in the course of their lives and it is estimated that 1 in 10 Canadians is affected by anxiety disorder. Depression Care offers fast access to personalized clinical treatment to help individuals achieve sustained recovery from depression and anxiety disorders.
For more information on Depression Care, click here.
Trauma Care
If you have experienced any type of Traumatic event, Trauma Care provides fast access to expert mental health services with specialized psychological intervention which is key to traumatic stress recovery. Homewood Health’s unique Trauma Care Program provides specialized treatment for individuals who are struggling with acute, or long-term, trauma symptoms.
Grieving can be an overwhelming and complex process. Every individual reacts differently and experiences grief and loss in unique ways. Homewood’s Grief and Loss Coaching Program helps you understand the grieving process by providing you with coaching support and resources to help you manage through the range of emotions and difficulties one experiences when faced with a significant loss. This program is helpful to those who have lost a loved one or are experiencing other forms of loss in their life, including job loss, divorce, or ending of a relationship.
For more information on Grief and Loss Coaching, click here.
Experiencing Acts of Violence
The trauma caused by acts of violence can, and most often have a significant emotional impact on people. The combination of atrocity and magnitude of the event, coupled with its unpredictability, will often lead to an intense feeling of vulnerability for our own safety and the safety of others. The Experiencing Acts of Violence program helps develop recovery and coping strategies to help you through these traumatic times.
For more information and the Experiencing Acts of Violence Program, click here.
To access these programs and services, Once there, you can register at www.manulifeEFAP.com by entering the Manulife Plan Contract # 39146. Then complete the remaining fields and click “Sign up”.
Resources
Mobile App – Download Homewood E-App on all mobile application platforms. *You must create an account on the EFAP website platform (manulifeEFAP.com) first before downloading the mobile app.
Health eLinks
Health Risk Assessment
Comprehensive Library of Medical Information
Self-Care Starter Kit– This kit describes why self-care matters, why it’s important to take time to look after yourself, and how you can build a self-care plan to improve your quality of life. The Self-Care Starter Kit helps design a plan specifically for you by taking you through the following 4 steps: Evaluating Your Coping Skills 2. Identifying Your Self-Care Needs 3. Barriers And Areas for Improvement 4. Creating Your Self-Care Plan
Outlined in the link below is a listing and brief description of the Wellness Sessions that are available through the NSTU Employee and Family Assistance program provider, Homewood Health™.
Please note: Wellness Sessions must be requested at least six to eight weeks in advance. These sessions should be scheduled between 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Any sessions scheduled outside these times will have a cost associated with them. Sessions require a minimum of 10 participants and should not exceed 35 participants. Additional costs will apply should you have a larger group.
Toll-Free Number – 24 hours, seven days a week – English: 1-877-955-NSTU (6788) or in French: 1-514-875-0720.
Counselling can be provided in a way that is most convenient and comfortable: in-person, by phone, or through a secure online service.
Access to all online features is available by visiting www.manulifeEFAP.com – Once there, you can register by entering the Manulife Plan Contract # 39146, complete the remaining fields and click “Sign up”.
Just a brief Check-In this week with a reminder that there is a local meeting Wednesday, April 12th at 6pm. At the meeting we will have the NSTU President, Ryan Lutes, in attendance and both speeches and a Q&A by the candidates (6) for one of our two provincial executive positions. The moderator will be current Halifax County PE member Duncan Cameron.
Halifax County Bursaries are given to the children/stepchildren of Halifax County Local members (not PSAANS members) who are currently (2022-23) teaching in a term or permanent position. Applicants must be graduating from High School in June 2023. This bursary must be used for enrollment in secondary education in September 2023 and cannot be deferred to another school year. The amount received by each recipient will be dependent on how many applications are received in total. The deadline for application is Friday, May 26th, 2023.
Successful applicants will be notified by email after the deadline of Friday, May 26th, 2023. Due to confidentiality, all correspondence will be between the applicant (not a parent) and the Halifax County Local Treasurer only. Applicants are responsible for keeping the confirmation notification that is received once the Google form is completed. Successful applicants will be asked to supply their Confirmation of Enrollment for a September 2023 start by September 22nd, 2023 in order to receive the funds. Failure to submit the required document by the deadline will forfeit the funds to be shared amongst the applicants who completed the requirements.
Jodie MacIlreith
Treasurer
Halifax County Local NSTU
It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement
Provincial
ARTICLE 50 TRAVEL ALLOWANCE
50.01 Teachers who must travel in the performance of their regular duties (which include a specific duty assigned by the Education Entity or a meeting called by the Education Entity or an Education Entity initiated in-service) shall be paid a travel allowance the greater of thirty-four (34¢) per kilometre or the current provincial government rate for those kilometres in excess of the round trip distance between the teacher’s residence and the school/site where the teacher teaches the greatest percentage of his/her time. If the teacher teaches an equal amount of time at more than one (1) school/site, then the school/site to be used in the calculation of travel allowance shall be the school/site closest to the teacher’s ordinary place of residence.
50.02 The parties to this Agreement shall encourage teachers to travel together when attending the same meeting/in-service when circumstances make it reasonably practicable
NSTU Benefits at a Glance
CAREpath™
We understand that a cancer diagnosis can mean uncertainty, questions, anxiety and fear. At CAREpath™, your personal oncology nurse, with the support of leading oncologists, is there to guide you through every step of your cancer experience, from diagnosis, through treatment and into survivorship.
The CAREpath™ Navigation System Is a service provided by the NSTU Group Insurance Trustees. If you, your spouse or dependent children suspect having cancer, are diagnosed with cancer, or are already living with cancer, CAREpath™ is ready and able to provide you with support.
The goal of CAREpath™ is to support, not replace, health services provided by your doctors. It is important to note that this service is for both active and retired members of NSTU.
Coverage
Member / Spouse and Dependent Child(ren)
CAREpath™ is a Cancer Assistance Program
If a member, member’s spouse, or dependent children suspect having cancer, are diagnosed with cancer, or are living with cancer, CAREpath™ provides is ready and able to provide you with support
A personal oncology nurse, with the support of leading oncologists, is there to guide the individual through every step of the cancer experience, from diagnosis, through to the end of active treatment
CAREpath™ covers all types and stages of cancer
CAREpath™ nurses have the knowledge and experience to be able to advocate for the member and their family
Guidance to alternate treatment location, if required or requested
If you are interested in participating in this program, at no cost to you or your family, a CAREpath™ oncology nurse can explain the services to you in more detail. You are not obligated to use CAREpath™ if you don’t want to and the nurses will be able to help answer any questions or concerns you may have. All interaction with CAREpath™ is strictly confidential.
Helpful Links
For a further understand of the CAREpath program and how it can work for you, watch the following video outlining the navigation process:
For more information on all of the programs CAREpath can offer you, visit their website below: www.carepath.ca
Contact
If you are interested in participating in this program, at no cost to you or your family, a CAREpath™ oncology nurse can explain the services to you in more detail. You are not obligated to use CAREpath™ if you don’t want to and the nurses will be able to help answer any questions or concerns you may have. All interaction with CAREpath™ is strictly confidential.
The CAREpath Program can be accessed directly at 1-844-453-6788 or through the NSTU at 1-800-565-6788, press 3 or email CAREpath™ at info@carepath.ca
Just a brief Check-In this week. Reps please make sure to pass along the two posters from the Social Wellness committee that were attached to the Check-in email. Thank you to Gayle and the committee for their work. And please have members, who may have children graduating, to check the Announcements. Thank you to Jodie and her committee for their ongoing work with student bursaries.
Halifax County Bursaries are given to the children/stepchildren of Halifax County Local members (not PSAANS members) who are currently (2022-23) teaching in a term or permanent position. Applicants must be graduating from High School in June 2023. This bursary must be used for enrollment in secondary education in September 2023 and cannot be deferred to another school year. The amount received by each recipient will be dependent on how many applications are received in total. The deadline for application is Friday, May 26th, 2023.
Successful applicants will be notified by email after the deadline of Friday, May 26th, 2023. Due to confidentiality, all correspondence will be between the applicant (not a parent) and the Halifax County Local Treasurer only. Applicants are responsible for keeping the confirmation notification that is received once the Google form is completed. Successful applicants will be asked to supply their Confirmation of Enrollment for a September 2023 start by September 22nd, 2023 in order to receive the funds. Failure to submit the required document by the deadline will forfeit the funds to be shared amongst the applicants who completed the requirements.
Jodie MacIlreith
Treasurer
Halifax County Local NSTU
It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement
Provincial
ARTICLE 51 LIABILITY INSURANCE
51.01 Each Education Entity shall obtain a general Personal Liability Policy which shall provide specified protection for each teacher while acting as an agent of the Education Entity and within the scope of the teacher’s responsibilities.
51.02 The Personal Liability Policy paid by each Education Entity shall have a face value of five million dollars ($5,000,000.00).
51.03 Coverage under such Personal Liability Policy shall be in accordance with its terms and conditions and the Policy shall be first payer in relation to any policy carried by or on behalf of a teacher.
51.04 No teacher shall voluntarily transport students to or from educational events in his/her own vehicle without prior written approval of an Education Entity or its representative.
51.05 To obtain approval to transport students each teacher shall complete and file with an Education Entity Form J pursuant to the Regulations under the Motor Carrier Act and have the appropriate driver’s license and insurance coverage for Public Liability and Property Damage in an amount as set by the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board provided such amount is not less than one million dollars ($1,000,000.00).
51.06 Each Education Entity shall obtain insurance coverage to the amount of ten million dollars ($10,000,000.00) with respect to teachers using their personal vehicles to transport students.
51.07 Each Education Entity’s insurance coverage for Public Liability and Property Damage pursuant to Article 51.06 shall be second payer in respect to the Public Liability and Property Damage policy carried by the teacher.
NSTU Benefits at a Glance
Your Wellness Partner – Offered Through CAREpath
Mental health issues affect the health and well-being of 1 in 4 people, regardless of age, gender, or background. In Canada, workplace mental health issues are associated with an enormous degree of disability with significant emotional and financial burden to both members and employers. Research is showing there is a two-way connection:
Stress and conflict in the workplace can contribute to mental health issues.
Mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, or panic disorders, among others, can make it difficult for persons to perform their job, affecting concentration, decision-making, and communication with others.
This solution can help reduce the emotional and physical impact of such mental health concerns and provide a sounding board to treatment options and medical best practices.
Coverage
Member / Spouse and Dependent Child(ren) over the age of 14
This program provides two levels of intervention: navigation and psychotherapy. Navigation is provided by baccalaureate level registered social workers and nurses who are qualified to assess mental health concerns, and to deliver psychoeducation and supportive counseling and coaching with the goal of enhancing self-care strategies and management of concerns. The role of the navigator is to ensure a smooth integration with the member’s existing circle of health/ medical care, and to provide assistance in navigating the mental health care system.
When navigation is not sufficient and psychotherapy is required for employees with more complex needs, our navigators enlist the services of one of CAREpath’s advanced clinicians; these are registered Master’s or PhD prepared social workers, nurses, or psychologists. We also provide timely access to psychiatric assessments and second opinions on a plan of care.
Program Process & Details
This mental health program offers multiple levels of support to provide the right guidance at the right time for anyone experiencing mild to severe mental health concerns, using primarily distance technologies including telephone and virtual resources (e.g., internet, mobile app, email, and secured video chat via Cleveland Clinic Express Care® Online).
Initial assessment and navigation by a mental health nurse or social worker.
Access to psychiatric assessment and family physician consultation. A referral to Medaca Health Group (MHG) may occur at time of intake or at any time along the trajectory.
Psychoeducation and coaching for self-management strategies, supporting clients to be active partners in achieving wellness and where appropriate, return to work.
A facilitated CBT program called “Mind Zone” delivered by mobile application for iOS and android.
Psychotherapy by Masters/PhD prepared social workers, mental health nurses, and psychologists (including francophone).
Your Wellness Partner is designed to complement broad healthy-workplace strategies and community based mental health services, and to address gaps, improving the timeliness of service delivery. This is made possible by offering solutions that promote prevention and early intervention of mental health issues, acute mental illness, or chronic mental health conditions.
Counselling Modalities
Your Wellness Partner provides counseling/psychotherapy to individuals, couples and families. Foundational therapeutic philosophy is informed by strengths-based/positive psychology theories. Advanced clinicians provide psychotherapy informed by a number of evidenced based approaches, including:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)/Mindfulness Based CBT
Cognitive Processing Therapy
Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Behavioral Activation
Motivational Interviewing
Grief Therapy
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
Mindfulness
Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and couple’s’ therapy
Sex Therapy
Family Systems Therapy
Crisis Intervention
Critical Incident Stress Management
Educational Materials
Your Wellness Partner offers a range of online educational tools/materials/ modules to support members with emotional wellbeing through “Your Wellness Lounge”. These materials are accessible online. These include self-management /information tools and facilitated programs to be used in conjunction with counseling or psychotherapy. Examples are:
Mind Zone via mobile application (CBT for depression/anxiety)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Solving Insomnia (with a tailoring for shift workers)
Social Anxiety
Substance Use: Alcohol
Coping with Sorrow, Loss, & Grief
Stress Management
Emotional Regulation
Managing Distressing Emotions
Interpersonal Effectiveness at Work
Return to Work Materials:
My Recovery Plan (for RTW)
Maintaining Wellness After Return to Work
Planning to Return to Work
Mind Zone Mobile CBT Application
Mind Zone is one resource available within Your Wellness Partner. It is a CBT program for anxiety and depression delivered using mobile technology (iOS and Android). The program is informed by the latest evidence, including a review of 1600 peer reviewed articles examining 900 + clinical trials, with over 50,000 participants. The research is clear: facilitated, internet based CBT is cost-effective, accessible, convenient, and clinically effective.
CAREpath’s CBT mobile app was developed in collaboration with our digital development partner, QoC Health. QoC Health believes in evidence-based co-design practice, ensuring that end users of the solution are reviewing and designing the solution to fit their specific needs. The program was validated by psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and advanced practice nurses. This team ensured the correct workflows for clients with mental health problems, including pathways for people identified as having more severe symptoms or chronic illness.
For more information on all of the programs CAREpath can offer you, visit their website below: www.carepath.ca
Contact
All interaction with CAREpath™ is strictly confidential.
The Your Wellness Partner program can be accessed directly at 1-844-453-6788 or through the NSTU at 1-800-565-6788, press 3 or email CAREpath™ at info@carepath.ca
Good morning everyone. First, on behalf of the local I want to say that every member of the local has all of CPA in their thoughts; but especially our fellow colleagues. The local also would like to thank the school reps at CPA for all they have done, and continue to do, on behave of their members at their site. This will be a slow process and I want you to know that the local is there for any of you in need.
Reps please make sure to pass along the message below to any members at your school with children graduating. Please make note of both the link and deadline date in the announcement. And thank you to Jodie and her committee for their ongoing work with student bursaries. Also note the deadline for the upcoming PE election and the two Economic Welfare sessions that are coming up for interested members.
Halifax County Bursaries are given to the children/stepchildren of Halifax County Local members (not PSAANS members) who are currently (2022-23) teaching in a term or permanent position. Applicants must be graduating from High School in June 2023. This bursary must be used for enrollment in secondary education in September 2023 and cannot be deferred to another school year. The amount received by each recipient will be dependent on how many applications are received in total. The deadline for application is Friday, May 26th, 2023.
Successful applicants will be notified by email after the deadline of Friday, May 26th, 2023. Due to confidentiality, all correspondence will be between the applicant (not a parent) and the Halifax County Local Treasurer only. Applicants are responsible for keeping the confirmation notification that is received once the Google form is completed. Successful applicants will be asked to supply their Confirmation of Enrollment for a September 2023 start by September 22nd, 2023 in order to receive the funds. Failure to submit the required document by the deadline will forfeit the funds to be shared amongst the applicants who completed the requirements.
Jodie MacIlreith
Treasurer
Halifax County Local NSTU
PE Election
Congratulations to Duncan Cameron who has been acclaimed as Halifax County Local’s Provincial executive member for another two years – term of office Aug 1, 2023 – July 31, 2025.
Please note that there is also another election (interim) for the local. Details are below.
THAT A PROVINCIAL EXECUTIVE BY-ELECTION FOR THE VACANT SEAT IN THE HALIFAX COUNTY REGION BE SET WITH THE FOLLOWING TIMELINE:
NOMINATIONS TO CLOSE THURSDAY, MARCH 30, 2023, AT 4:00 P.M.
BY-ELECTION DATE, IF REQUIRED, TO BE WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2023, FROM 6:00 A.M. TO 8:00 P.M.
The term of office will be to complete the term of the out-going Member, July 31, 2024.
If you have any questions regarding the by-election process, please do not hesitate to contact me directly at lrobitaille@staff.nstu.ca for answers
Economic Welfare
Pre-Retirement (Pension) Session #2
March 30th, 2023 @ 6 pm @ 6 pm via Zoom Platform
Facilitated by a NSTU Executive Staff Officer, Paul Boudreau. This second session will differ from the first, as the main focus will be to review and discuss pension income .
Please complete the Self Registration Google Form: https://forms.gle/7mTXfqPiZjQvMceKA OR contact Andrea Heans: acheans@nstu.ca
Know Your Contract Session
Who: Members from Halifax County, Halifax City and Dartmouth Locals are welcome to join us on Zoom.
What: Facilitated by NSTU Executive Staff Officer, Wally Fiander, this session is an opportunity to ask questions regarding contracts and hiring processes.
When/Where: April 20th, 2023 @ 6:30 pm
How: Register by completing the Google Form registration: OR CONTACT: Turk MacDonald @ tdmacdonald@nstu.ca https://forms.gle/w13W9ApUbQwqsQBt5 *Once you are registered you will be contacted with the Zoom link closer to the session.
It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement
Provincial
ARTICLE 55 ACCOMMODATION
55.01 Where a transfer is required within an Education Entity in order to accommodate a teacher pursuant to the Human Rights Act of Nova Scotia, an Education Entity and the Union shall consult to seek an appropriate accommodation. This transfer may be implemented notwithstanding any other provision in this Agreement or any other provision in a Professional Agreement with an Education Entity.
55.02 Where a transfer is required within an Education Entity in order to accommodate the special needs of a teacher, an Education Entity and the Union shall consult to seek an appropriate accommodation for that teacher. Where the Union and an Education Entity mutually agree on an accommodation, the transfer required may be implemented notwithstanding any other provision in this Agreement or any other provision in a Professional Agreement with an Education Entity.
55.03 Where there is agreement between an Education Entity and the Union, provisions of this Article are not grievable under the Grievance Article in the Teachers’ Provincial Agreement or any Grievance Article in a Professional Agreement with an Education Entity.
NSTU Benefits at a Glance
The HealthCareAssist Program
The HealthCareAssist program is a new comprehensive navigation service that provides NSTU members, spouses and dependent children with answers, guidance and support before, during and after treatment, in the event of an illness or health crisis.
HealthCareAssist provides individual case management of all types of medical conditions. These conditions include cardiovascular conditions, stroke, diabetes, kidney conditions, and multiple sclerosis, just to name a few. A Nurse Case Manager provides a single point of contact, creates continuity of care and ensures patients receive the right treatment, at the right time, in the right place.
HealthCareAssist combines CAREpath’s team of highly trained and caring nurses with Cleveland Clinic Canada’s global network of physicians and specialists.
Here is how HealthCareAssist helps:
Dramatically improves the overall quality of care, recovery and outcomes
Provides in-depth assessment of treatment plans to ensure they are consistent with medical best practice
Explains options for tests and treatments specific for the individual
Facilitates access to diagnostic tests, treatments and clinical trials
Through Cleveland Clinic Canada, provides virtual doctor-to-doctor consults with the patient’s local treating physicians after completing medical second opinions
Guides patients to alternate treatment locations in and outside Canada, when requested or required
Delivers telephonically, making the service timely and efficient
Helpful Links
For an overview of all the programs available to you through CAREpath, watch the following navigation video to understand how this program can assist: https://vimeo.com/210824085
For more information on all of the programs CAREpath can offer you, visit their website below: www.carepath.ca
Contact
The HealthCareAssist Program can be accessed directly at 1-844-453-6788 or through the NSTU at 1-800-565-6788, press 3.
Just a brief Check-In and please take note of both the Economic Welfare sessions and upcoming Provincial Executive election.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
PE Election
Congratulations to Duncan Cameron who has been acclaimed as Halifax County Local’s Provincial executive member for another two years – term of office Aug 1, 2023 – July 31, 2025.
Please note that there is also another election (interim) for the local. Details are below.
NOMINATIONS TO CLOSE THURSDAY, MARCH 30, 2023, AT 4:00 P.M.
BY-ELECTION DATE, IF REQUIRED, TO BE WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2023, FROM 6:00 A.M. TO 8:00 P.M.
The term of office will be to complete the term of the out-going Member, July 31, 2024.
If you have any questions regarding the by-election process, please do not hesitate to contact Louis Robitaille at lrobitaille@staff.nstu.ca for answers
It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement
Provincial
ARTICLE 57 EDUCATIONAL EVENTS
57.01 Teachers, with prior approval of an Education Entity or designated Supervisor shall be entitled to accompany approved teams, committees and groups of students, during the school hours without loss of salary.
NSTU Benefits at a Glance
Seniors’ Care Assistance Program
The Seniors’ Care Assistance Program is the only service in Canada that connects members, immediate family, and parents to a Registered Nurse who specializes in senior care assistance. The program helps members understand their senior care choices and ensure they get the right care every time.
The program is based on three main principles: Connect, Access and Care.
Connect
The Seniors’ Care Assistance Program will Connect you to publicly funded senior care resources. Bayshore HealthCare nurses will assess all funding options and financial queries and help you and your family understand and access alternative ways to pay. For example, Bayshore will help you:
Understand and access the right care
Calculate the total cost
Break down what is payable out of pocket and what can be covered by the funding
Find additional funding sources
Access assistive devices
Access
Bayshore HealthCare nurses will help you and your families manage Access to senior care and support services by finding and accessing services that are right for your family member. Bayshore will help you:
Personally book appointments on their behalf with local health care support, including physicians, hospitals, nutritionists, paramedical practitioners or other providers
Gather all medical records and other information required
Complete all the necessary forms for services, funding or rebates
Access other community and volunteer organizations that are geared towards senior support, such as local Meals on Wheels, transportation services or seniors helping seniors organizations
Access physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech language pathology, dietitian services, pain programs and other similar services
Care
Bayshore also takes Care to ensure that recommended services such as nursing care, personal care, companionship, house cleaning, home retrofit and meal deliveries are fully assessed and approved by Bayshore HealthCare and are provided by organizations you can trust. Bayshore makes living at home easier by helping with:
