Hi everyone,

Just a brief Check-In this week, with ERIP information and announcements, as we quickly close in on a well-deserved holiday break. Please note the following important deadline coming up for members considering retirement at the end of December. Please make sure members considering retiring this year are aware of this plan and its application deadline.

Early Retirement Incentive Plan

Any member who is retiring this year and interested in an Early Retirement Incentive Plan (ERIP) must apply by December 31^st. Any retiring teacher should reach out to the local’s NSTU executive staff officer, Wally Fiander, for details. Wally’s email is wfiander@staff.nstu.ca  and members can find more information for ERIP applications in the provincial agreement below.

Teachers’ Provincial Agreement 2015-2019 (windows.net)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Nominations

Please see the attached AC 2023 Delegate Application Form link below for any Halifax County member to apply to attend this year’s Annual Council.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdrXQGcfxos0qgW7AahHhuGf-W2_YLtrbUTs9eQpXeEMj4EAA/viewform

Meeting dates

The Halifax County Local General Meeting dates are as follows:

January 10
March 6
April 10
May 8
June 5

*Meetings are held at 6pm (5:30 supper) at the Legion in Lower Sackville.

Communications

Please see the below link to the Communication Committee’s “2024 Member Engagement Conference” sent on behalf of Suzanne Rholand VP of Communications and the Communication  committee. Any questions can be sent to Suzanne at HfxCoCommunications@nstu.ca

​http://bit.ly/HfxCountyMEC2024​

Have a wonderful break everyone,

Shawn Hanifen

Local President

Hi everyone,

Just a brief Check-In this week as we quickly close in on a well-deserved holiday break. Please note the following important deadline coming up for members considering retirement to apply for ERIP’s by the end of December. Please make sure members considering retiring this year are aware of this plan and its application deadline.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

 Early Retirement Incentive Plan

Any member who is retiring this year and interested in an Early Retirement Incentive Plan (ERIP) must apply by December 31^st. Any retiring teacher should reach out to the local’s NSTU executive staff officer, Wally Fiander, for details. Wally’s email is wfiander@staff.nstu.ca.

 Mileage with HRCE

Please note that mileage (if applicable-circuit/specialists) forms can be found on myHRCE and that they use Google maps. If there is a discrepancy, you can override their calculation. Any questions regarding this can be sent tohrhelp@hrce.ca

It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement

Provincial

ARTICLE 39 DEFERRED SALARY LEAVE PLAN

39.01 A Deferred Salary Leave Plan as agreed by the Employer and the Union, Appendix B, shall be implemented.

39.02 The Employer shall be responsible for advising Education Entities of the details of the program.

39.03 The Union shall be responsible for advising the teachers of the details of the program.

39.04 The program shall not be amended except by mutual agreement of the Employer and the Union.

NSTU Benefits at a Glance

 Over-Age Dependents

Coverage

NSTU Total Care Medical/Dental Program provides coverage for eligible members, their spouses and dependent children to the age of 21, if unmarried and dependent upon the member for maintenance and support. NSTU Group Insurance is supplemental to Provincially Sponsored Medical Plans.

Coverage extended to age 27, if the child is attending an institution of higher learning on a full-time basis, unmarried and dependent upon the member for maintenance and support.

Definitions

“Dependent Children” means either natural children (legitimate or illegitimate), adopted children, or stepchildren of the member who are:

• under 21 years of age, unmarried and dependent upon you for maintenance and support; or
• under 27 years of age and unmarried and in attendance* at an institution of higher learning and dependent upon you for maintenance and support; or
• any functionally impaired child may remain insured past the maximum age. The child, upon reaching the maximum age, must still be incapable of self-sustaining employment and be completely dependent on you for support and maintenance.

“Over-age Dependents” – On your dependent’s 21st birthday you must provide Johnson Inc. proof of full-time attendance at a post-secondary educational institution.

Requirements

All dependent children between the ages of 21 and 27 attending an institution of higher learning must provide Johnson Inc. each September with proof of full-time attendance at a post–secondary educational institution.

Proof must clearly indicate your over-age dependent’s name, full-time status and the semester they are attending.

Please forward one of the following examples of adequate proof of overage dependent status:

1. invoice of tuition paid confirming full-time status
2. a letter from the school confirming full-time status (any associated
   charges are your responsibility)
3. timetable of courses confirming full-time status

Indicate on proof of full-time status, your name plus professional number.

On-line learning reviewed on an individual basis*.

If your over-age dependent discontinues enrolment in a formal education program or graduates, you must notify Johnson Inc. immediately to terminate over-age coverage.

Claims for “Over-Age Dependent” children cannot be processed by Medavie Blue Cross until the “Over-Age Dependent” is registered with Johnson Inc.

Your over-age dependent can use your benefit card. An additional card can be issued upon your request.

Insured dependents who reside outside of the Atlantic Provinces may be required to submit expenses for reimbursement.

Contact

If you have any questions regarding the above, please call the Administrator, Johnson Inc., at 453-9543 or 1-800-453-9543 (toll-free).

email: insurance@nstu.ca or nstu@johnson.ca

Visit the Johnson Inc. website:  www.johnson.ca

Have a great week everyone,

Shawn Hanifen

Local President

Hi everyone,

Just a brief Check-In this week. Please note the following important deadline coming up for members considering retirement to apply for ERIP’s by the end of December. Please make sure members considering retiring this year are aware of this plan and its application deadline.

Early Retirement Incentive Plan

Any member who is retiring this year and interested in an Early Retirement Incentive Plan (ERIP) must apply by December 31^st. Any retiring teacher should reach out to the local’s NSTU executive staff officer, Wally Fiander, for details. Wally’s email is wfiander@staff.nstu.ca

ANNOUNCEMENTS

 Meeting dates

The Halifax County Local General Meeting dates are as follows:

January 10
March 6
April 10
May 8
June 5

*Meetings are held at 6pm (5:30 supper) at the Legion in Lower Sackville.

It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement

(Provincial)

Marking and Prep Time (minimum 12.5%)

Effective August 1, 2021, existing Articles 59.02 and 59.03 are deleted and replaced by the following:

59.02 Notwithstanding 59.01 the following applies to override Appendix E where necessary: • A minimum of twelve and one half percent (12.5%) of instructional time shall be provided to each teacher for marking and preparation, averaged over the school year.

*To be used as an example only*

300min/instructional day= 37.5 min Prep (300×0.125)/day

Or 187.5 min/week or 375min/10 day cycle

Coverage While on Prep

59.05 A teacher who is required by the Principal to fill in when a substitute is not hired pursuant to Article 32.23 (Substitute Teachers) of this Agreement shall have the lost marking and preparation time rescheduled within ten (10) school days.

NSTU Benefits at a Glance

Total Care – Dental​

Benefit is not automatic. New members who commence work prior to October 1, must contact Johnson and enroll no later than October 15. Coverage will take effect the first of the month following receipt of the application form or request for coverage.

New members who commence work after October 1, must enroll within 31 days of commencing work. Coverage to take effect the first of the month following receipt of application.

Should you elect not to participate in the plan, but wish to participate at a future date, coverage will be effective September 1, following receipt of application. If you participate in the program, coverage will remain in effect for a full twelve-month period, provided you remain an active member or employee of the NSTU.

Cost Sharing

Under the Teachers’ Provincial Agreement/APSEA Agreement, the Employer pays 65% of monthly premium of Single or Family plans. Member pays 100% of Prosthodontic and Orthodontic Benefit. Benefit is not automatic.

 Coverage

Basic Preventative Services

80% reimbursement for such items as the following (benefit maximums may apply):

• oral examinations;
• cleanings, pit and fissure sealants;
• fillings;
• root canal therapy;
• periodontic services;
• denture repairs or relining;
• extraction of teeth.

Major Restorative Services

60% reimbursement for the following major restorative services to a maximum payment of $1,500 per person per calendar year:

• crown restorations;
• inlay and onlay restorations;
• gold fillings when teeth cannot be restored with other material.

Prosthodontic Services

50% reimbursement to a maximum payment of $1,500 per person per calendar year.

Orthodontic Services

50% reimbursement to a maximum payment of $2,000 per person lifetime.

Have a great week,

Shawn Hanifen

Local President

Hi everyone,

Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend as November ends and we all head into the holiday season. I would like to take this opportunity to thank both our First VP, Turk MacDonald, and his committee for their hard work on Resolutions to Annual Council last week. There was some great debate and many resolutions that were passed.

Please see the below items as the deadlines for both are quickly approaching for our Member Registry to be updated to get the maximum number of delegates to Annual Council. And for those members who are considering retiring please note the application process for an ERIP.

Early Retirement Incentive Plan

Any member who is retiring this year and interested in an Early Retirement Incentive Plan (ERIP) must apply by December 31^st. Any retiring teacher should reach out to the local’s NSTU executive staff officer, Wally Fiander, for details. Wally’s email is wfiander@staff.nstu.ca

NSTU Member Registry

NSTU reps should be updating the Membership Registry online and in real time. When an NSTU rep updates the site list, the changes are immediately made to the database ensuring the Union’s membership information is current and accurate.

Individual members can also update all their personal, employment assignment and contact information themselves

Membership figures are pulled from the Registry on the first Monday in December and the first Monday in March each year.  NSTU representatives are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of the site information within the Membership Registry.  All site updates should be completed at least one week prior to each of the above-mentioned dates and may be completed any time prior to that point. Should you require additional information please contact NSTU Central Office by phoning (902)-477-5621, or toll free at (800) 565-6788 or by emailing registry@nstu.ca.

A link to the webpage and the Site Management Instructions for NSTU School Representatives is below. In addition, at the bottom of the webpage link there is a link to forms for new members at your school site, if they do not show up on your registry.

Membership Registry (nstu.ca)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Meeting dates

The Halifax County Local General Meeting dates are as follows:

January 10
March 6
April 10
May 8
June 5

*Meetings are held at 6pm (5:30 supper) at the Legion in Lower Sackville.

Economic Welfare

Workshops update.

We have completed two of the three planned workshops, Pensions 101 and Teachers and the Law. The final workshop before the holiday break will be Pregnancy, Adoption and Parental Leave, December 6^th .

Don’t miss out sign up now by filling out the google form.

http://forms.gle/jpkVUEq3ip5nFzmm9   by December 2^nd or by emailing Tara at taraarseneau@nstu.ca 

It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement

Provincial

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.

NSTU Benefits at a Glance

Provincial Master Life Insurance

A $50,000 term life policy is available to all active Public School Members, PSAANS and APSEA Members. A dependent life benefit of $3,000 for your spouse and $1,500 for each eligible dependent child is also included in this coverage. The premium for this benefit is 100% paid by each Employer, therefore, there is no charge to the member for this coverage. It is very important that you designate a beneficiary and a contingent beneficiary for your Provincial Master Life insurance.

Have a great week, 

Shawn Hanifen

Local President

Hi everyone,

Just a brief Check-In this week with a reminder of this week’s meeting at the Legion in Lower Sackville at 45 Sackville Cross Rd., Lower Sackville. Resolutions submitted to the local will be heard and voted on at that time. A Zoom will be held on Thursday, November 23^rd for those Reps who have PT meetings Wednesday. Please note the following important deadlines coming up for both our Member Registry (December 5th) and for members considering retirement to apply for ERIP’s by the end of December.

Early Retirement Incentive Plan

Any member who is retiring this year and interested in an Early Retirement Incentive Plan (ERIP) must apply by December 31^st. Any retiring teacher should reach out to the local’s NSTU executive staff officer, Wally Fiander, for details. Wally’s email is wfiander@staff.nstu.ca

NSTU Member Registry

NSTU reps should be updating the Membership Registry online and in real time. When an NSTU rep updates the site list, the changes are immediately made to the database ensuring the Union’s membership information is current and accurate.

Individual members can also update all their personal, employment assignment and contact information themselves

Membership figures are pulled from the Registry on the first Monday in December and the first Monday in March each year.  NSTU representatives are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of the site information within the Membership Registry.  All site updates should be completed at least one week prior to each of the above-mentioned dates and may be completed any time prior to that point. Should you require additional information please contact NSTU Central Office by phoning (902)-477-5621, or toll free at (800) 565-6788 or by emailing registry@nstu.ca.

A link to the webpage and the Site Management Instructions for NSTU School Representatives is below. In addition, at the bottom of the webpage link there is a link to forms for new members at your school site, if they do not show up on your registry.

Membership Registry (nstu.ca)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Meeting dates

The Halifax County Local General Meeting dates are as follows:

November 22
January 10
March 6
April 10
May 8
June 5

*Meetings are held at 6pm (5:30 supper) at the Legion in Lower Sackville.

Economic Welfare 

Workshops update.

We have completed two of the three planned workshops, Pensions 101 and Teachers and the Law. The final workshop before the holiday break will be Pregnancy, Adoption and Parental Leave, December 6^th .

Don’t miss out sign up now by filling out the google form.

http://forms.gle/jpkVUEq3ip5nFzmm9   by December 2^nd or by emailing Tara at taraarseneau@nstu.ca 

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

Long Term Disability

This coverage provides a benefit based on 70% of your gross monthly salary at the time your claim commences. As the Employer pays a portion of the premium, this is a taxable benefit to you. The Long-Term Disability benefit is integrated with the Canada Pension Plan. The qualifying period before benefit payments would commence is the greater of 90 calendar days or your accumulated sick leave. When you are in receipt of Long-Term Disability benefits, members continue to accumulate pensionable service as contributions by both the member and Employer are required. The NSTU Long Term Disability plan is cost-shared with the Employer at 50%.

Have a great week,

Shawn Hanifen

Local President

Hi everyone,

Hope everyone had another relaxing long weekend. Just a brief Check-In this week with a reminder of next weeks meeting at the Legion in Lower Sackville at 45 Sackville Cross Rd., Lower Sackville. Resolutions submitted to the local will be heard and voted on at that time. Additionally, there will be a Zoom update for Reps who had to attend PT meetings and were unable to attend.

Please note the following important deadlines coming up for both our Member Registry (December 5th) and for members considering retirement to apply for ERIP’s by the end of December.

Early Retirement Incentive Plan

Any member who is retiring this year and interested in an Early Retirement Incentive Plan (ERIP) must apply by December 31^st. Any retiring teacher should reach out to the local’s NSTU executive staff officer, Wally Fiander, for details. Wally’s email is wfiander@staff.nstu.ca

NSTU Member Registry

NSTU reps should be updating the Membership Registry online and in real time. When an NSTU rep updates the site list, the changes are immediately made to the database ensuring the Union’s membership information is current and accurate.

Individual members can also update all their personal, employment assignment and contact information themselves

Membership figures are pulled from the Registry on the first Monday in December and the first Monday in March each year.  NSTU representatives are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of the site information within the Membership Registry.  All site updates should be completed at least one week prior to each of the above-mentioned dates and may be completed any time prior to that point. Should you require additional information please contact NSTU Central Office by phoning (902)-477-5621, or toll free at (800) 565-6788 or by emailing registry@nstu.ca.

A link to the webpage and the Site Management Instructions for NSTU School Representatives is below. In addition, at the bottom of the webpage link there is a link to forms for new members at your school site, if they do not show up on your registry.

Membership Registry (nstu.ca)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

 Meeting dates

The Halifax County Local General Meeting dates are as follows:

November 22
January 10
March 6
April 10
May 8
June 5

*Meetings are held at 6pm (5:30 supper) at the Legion in Lower Sackville.

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

Long Term Disability

Effective August 1, 2014 – the NSTU Long Term Disability Plan is mandatory for all members without the ability to opt out unless the following condition hasbeen met:

• Plan member is age 65 or has 35 years of pensionable service less accumulated sick leave.

Cost Sharing

Under the Teachers’ Provincial Agreement/APSEA Agreement, the Employer cost shares monthly premium with members by paying 50%. Some members are grandfathered at 70% of the monthly cost.

Coverage

• 70% of gross monthly salary at time claim commences – taxable
• For long-term claims, benefit reduced by Workers’ Compensation and/or Canada Pension
• Rehabilitation benefit
• Cost-of-living benefit, outside the insurance contract
• Elimination period of 90 calendar days, or accumulated sick leave, whichever is greater
• Benefits payable to age 65
• Pension contributions are made by Member and Employer

Adjudicators

Adjudicated by Manulife Financial

Contact

If you have any questions regarding the above, please call the Administrator, Johnson Inc., at 453-9543 or 1-800-453-9543 (toll-free).

email: insurance@nstu.ca or nstu@johnson.ca

Visit the Johnson Inc. website:  www.johnson.ca

Have a great week,

Shawn Hanifen

Local President

Hi everyone,

Hope the time change on the weekend treated you well, I know I woke up early each morning since. Just a brief Check-In with some announcements for our upcoming meeting dates, ERIP deadline and the EEE Summit. Also a reminder our next Local Meeting is Wednesday, November 22^nd at 6pm (supper at 5:30) at the Legion in Lower Sackville at 45 Sackville Cross Rd., Lower Sackville. Resolutions to Council will be heard and voted on at that meeting. As many have Parent Teacher scheduled on the evening of the 22nd, there will be a Zoom update for those with PT interviews on Thursday the 23^rd at 6pm for questions around reports and any Rep questions. A link for that will be sent to Reps at the same time as the local meeting agenda.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Meeting dates

The Halifax County Local General Meeting dates are as follows:

November 22 ( Please note a Zoom link will be sent for the 23rd at 6pm for those with Parent Teacher on the 22nd for questions on reports and any Rep concerns) 
January 10
March 6
April 10
May 8
June 5

*Meetings are held at 6pm (5:30 supper) at the Legion in Lower Sackville.

ERIP
Any member who is retiring this year and interested in an Early Retirement Incentive Plan (ERIP) must apply by December 31^st. Any retiring teacher should reach out to the local’s NSTU executive staff officer, Wally Fiander, for details. The ERIP article (38) and explanation of the Plan (Appendix A) may be found in the Teachers’ Provincial Agreement (TPA) at the link below. The Appendix explains the application process, conditions and other pertinent information. 

Teachers’ Provincial Agreement 2015-2019 (windows.net)

EEE Summit

Please note we have our three attendees and are compiling a waitlist in case other local do not utilize their spaces. The local will send as many participants as permitted (spaces left from other locals) to this valuable Summit to maximize engagement for our members. The EEE Summitt is an opportunity for Indigenous, Black and racialized members from our local to engage with our Union and to have their voice heard and amplified by continuing to build equity, diversity, and inclusion within the NSTU. For more information, please contact Wendie wwilson@staff.nstu.ca

The conference will start on Friday evening (December 15th) at 6:30pm with registration and a dinner; and will continue Saturday (December 16th) 8am to 12pm with breakfast included. The Summit will take place at the Hotel Halifax (1990 Barrington St). Hotel accommodations for the evening of December 15th, meals and milage will be covered.

The local may send up to three (3) members and if other locals do not utilize their available spots there may be the opportunity for the local to send more of our members due to this the local would like members to submit their names by November 9th by 4pm. if additional spots open members on the waitlist will be contacted. Please share with any members at your school site that may be interested in this event. members who are interested can email halifaxcountylocal@nstu.ca with their name and school/site. 

It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement

Provincial

ARTICLE 6 RESPECTFUL WORKPLACE AND LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

6.01 Neither the Employer nor Education Entity nor any person acting on behalf of the Employer or Education Entity shall refuse to employ or to continue to employ any teacher or otherwise discriminate against any teacher in regard to employment or any term or condition of employment because the teacher is or was a member of the Union or is or was exercising any right under this Agreement, or Local Agreement, or the Teachers’ Collective Bargaining Act.

6.02 Neither the Employer nor Education Entity nor any person acting on behalf of the Employer or Education Entity shall seek by intimidation, by threat of dismissal, or any other kind of threat, by the imposition of a pecuniary or other penalty or by any other means to compel a teacher to refrain from exercising any right under this Agreement, or Local Agreement, or the Teachers’ Collective Bargaining Act.

6.03 Neither the Employer nor Education Entity nor any person acting on behalf of the Employer or Education Entity shall discriminate against any teacher on the basis of the prohibited grounds as set out under the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act.

6.04 A teacher’s level of teaching certificate or place of residence shall not be just cause for discharge, termination of contract, or phase-out pursuant to 20.05 (ii) (b) of Article 20 Tenure.

6.05 The Union and the Employer recognize the responsibility of Education Entity to establish a policy for the protection of teachers from harassment and abuse pursuant to the Education Act

Teachers’ Provincial Agreement 2015-2019 (windows.net)

Additionally, the employer has a Respectful Workplace Program for all employees. Members may also wish to reach out to their NSTU staff officer, Wally Fiander, as NSTU staff can assist members in navigating the process and provide assistance to your specific concern.

Respectful Workplaces | Halifax Regional Centre for Education (hrce.ca)

NSTU Benefits at a Glance

Over-Age Dependents

Coverage

NSTU Total Care Medical/Dental Program provides coverage for eligible members, their spouses and dependent children to the age of 21, if unmarried and dependent upon the member for maintenance and support. NSTU Group Insurance is supplemental to Provincially Sponsored Medical Plans.

Coverage extended to age 27, if the child is attending an institution of higher learning on a full-time basis, unmarried and dependent upon the member for maintenance and support.

Definitions

“Dependent Children” means either natural children (legitimate or illegitimate), adopted children, or stepchildren of the member who are:

• under 21 years of age, unmarried and dependent upon you for maintenance and support; or
• under 27 years of age and unmarried and in attendance* at an institution of higher learning and dependent upon you for maintenance and support; or
• any functionally impaired child may remain insured past the maximum age. The child, upon reaching the maximum age, must still be incapable of self-sustaining employment and be completely dependent on you for support and maintenance.

“Over-age Dependents” – On your dependent’s 21st birthday you must provide Johnson Inc. proof of full-time attendance at a post-secondary educational institution.

Requirements

All dependent children between the ages of 21 and 27 attending an institution of higher learning must provide Johnson Inc. each September with proof of full-time attendance at a post–secondary educational institution.

Proof must clearly indicate your over-age dependent’s name, full-time status and the semester they are attending.

Please forward one of the following examples of adequate proof of overage dependent status:

1. invoice of tuition paid confirming full-time status
2. a letter from the school confirming full-time status (any associated
   charges are your responsibility)
3. timetable of courses confirming full-time status

Indicate on proof of full-time status, your name plus professional number.

On-line learning reviewed on an individual basis*.

If your over-age dependent discontinues enrolment in a formal education program or graduates, you must notify Johnson Inc. immediately to terminate over-age coverage.

Claims for “Over-Age Dependent” children cannot be processed by Medavie Blue Cross until the “Over-Age Dependent” is registered with Johnson Inc.

Your over-age dependent can use your benefit card. An additional card can be issued upon your request.

Insured dependents who reside outside of the Atlantic Provinces may be required to submit expenses for reimbursement.

Contact

If you have any questions regarding the above, please call the Administrator, Johnson Inc., at 453-9543 or 1-800-453-9543 (toll-free).

email: insurance@nstu.ca or nstu@johnson.ca

Visit the Johnson Inc. website:  www.johnson.ca

Have a great week,

Shawn Hanifen

Local President

Good morning,

Hope everyone enjoyed the wonderful weather on Saturday and are preparing for the colder weather ahead. Please take note of this week’s Announcements in the Check-in as there are some time sensitive items.  Also please see the attachments sent on behalf of Turk MacDonald First VP.

Also, the local Executive did discuss the issue around PT interviews the evening of our meeting. Thank you to our VP of Reps and Equity, Desiree Daniele for checking for new dates with the Legion. There were 2 dates available and one conflicted with me being able to Chair and the other was too tight a timeline for Resolutions, which is the main agenda item for next month’s meeting. There was also a concern that moving the date could also cause other members issues with attendance.

To try to be both fair, and accommodating, for all the meeting will still be on the 22^nd as scheduled. Those who cannot attend on the 22^nd due to PT ,will be able to meet vial Zoom on the 23^rd (time TBA) for any Rep/Report concerns. There will be an attendance link for those in attendance as well. I would like to thank the members who reached out regarding the concern they had, all the Executive for their input; and fingers crossed we will not need the Zoom option anytime in the near future. Hope everyone has a great week and enjoy Halloween tomorrow.

Thanks,

Shawn

Announcements

Meeting dates

The Halifax County Local General Meeting dates are as follows:

November 22
January 10
March 6
April 10
May 8
June 5

*Meetings are held at 6pm (5:30 supper) at the Legion in Lower Sackville.

ERIP
Any member who is retiring this year and interested in an Early Retirement Incentive Plan (ERIP) must apply by December 31^st. Any retiring teacher should reach out to the local’s NSTU executive staff officer, Wally Fiander, for details. The ERIP article (38) and explanation of the Plan (Appendix A) may be found in the Teachers’ Provincial Agreement (TPA) at the link below. The Appendix explains the application process, conditions and other pertinent information. 

Teachers’ Provincial Agreement 2015-2019 (windows.net)

Economic Welfare

Economic Welfare Workshops/Presentations 2023-2024

The first two workshops of the 2023-2024 are here. These sessions will be provided virtually via the Zoom platform. To register please use the accompanying link for the workshop/presentation.

• Pension 101 Retirement Pension Structure – This presentation provides an overview of the Teachers’ Pension Plan, Canada Pension Plan, and Old Age Security and how these three pensions provide retirement income for teachers in Nova Scotia. This workshop/presentation will occur on November 1st, 2023 @ 6pm 

Link: Retirement https://forms.gle/s3NoWy5PDoDYZ12s5

• Teachers and the Law-This presentation provides an overview of the teachers and the Law. This workshop/presentation will occur on November 7th, 2023 @ 6pm 

Link: Teachers and the Law https://forms.gle/ACY85SL2hNB9o5vKA

There are more workshops/presentations coming soon.

Google Form for Resolutions and Submissions

Hello members, the Halifax County NSTU Local is looking for your resolutions, submissions, and ideas that you want changed, deleted or added so that they can present them in resolution form to Annual Council 2024. It is very easy, just complete the google form. Those who complete the form will receive a ballot for a Sobeys gift card draws for those who send in their ideas. If you wish to have you name entered into draws for Sobeys gift cards then please fill in your name (optional). Please us the link below or contact Turk Macdonald at tdmacdonald@nstu.ca 

Google form link: https://forms.gle/tR932zjf344yPX7w9

The google form will close on Friday, November 3^rd.

Many Thanks.

It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement

Provincial

ARTICLE 39 DEFERRED SALARY LEAVE PLAN

39.01 A Deferred Salary Leave Plan as agreed by the Employer and the Union, Appendix B, shall be implemented.

39.02 The Employer shall be responsible for advising Education Entities of the details of the program.

39.03 The Union shall be responsible for advising the teachers of the details of the program.

39.04 The program shall not be amended except by mutual agreement of the Employer and the Union.

NSTU Benefits at a Glance

Early Intervention Program (EIP)

The Early Intervention Program (EIP) is a program for all NSTU members who are working or on paid sick leave and are experiencing illness or injury.  The intent of the program is to provide encouragement, support and opportunity for active participation to facilitate early return to health and work or early application to disability benefits.

Participation in the program is voluntary and confidentiality is assured.  NSTU members are encouraged to contact the EIP directly if they feel assistance is required or if they are at risk of disability.

Intervention may include telephone contact, assistance with coordinating health services (for example, physician, therapist, counsellor, chiropractor) or facilitation of a return-to-work plan.  In the event a member is unable to return to work, he or she will be guided through the process of early application to disability benefits. Intervention services are provided by registered occupational therapists Leticia Richer and Maya Fallows.

In solidarity,

Shawn Hanifen

Hi everyone,

Hope everyone had a great weekend. This past weekend we had our local Rep Retreat and I would like to take the opportunity to thank all the Reps in attendance. We all know how important our weekends are and that is not lost on the local in the commitment you demonstrate as a Rep. I would also like to thank the Equity and Reps committee, NSTU staff presenting, our fill in Techie Grant, the local exec and last but certainly not least, Desiree Danielle for all your hard work and commitment as well. Please see the Announcements below as well as our upcoming meeting dates.

Announcements

Meeting dates

The Halifax County Local General Meeting dates are as follows:

November 22
January 10
March 6
April 10
May 8
June 5

*Meetings are held at 6pm (5:30 supper) at the Legion in Lower Sackville.

ERIP
Any member who is retiring this year and interested in an Early Retirement Incentive Plan (ERIP) must apply by December 31^st. Any retiring teacher should reach out to the local’s NSTU executive staff officer, Wally Fiander, for details. The ERIP article (38) and explanation of the Plan (Appendix A) may be found in the Teachers’ Provincial Agreement (TPA) at the link below. The Appendix explains the application process, conditions and other pertinent information. 

Teachers’ Provincial Agreement 2015-2019 (windows.net)

Economic Welfare

Economic Welfare Workshops/Presentations 2023-2024

The first two workshops of the 2023-2024 are here. These sessions will be provided virtually via the Zoom platform. To register please use the accompanying link for the workshop/presentation.

• Pension 101 Retirement Pension Structure – This presentation provides an overview of the Teachers’ Pension Plan, Canada Pension Plan, and Old Age Security and how these three pensions provide retirement income for teachers in Nova Scotia. This workshop/presentation will occur on November 1st, 2023 @ 6pm 

Link: Retirement https://forms.gle/s3NoWy5PDoDYZ12s5

• Contract New Teachers-This presentation provides an overview of the teachers contract for new teachers. This workshop/presentation will occur on November 7th, 2023 @ 6pm 

Link: Contract for New Teachers https://forms.gle/ACY85SL2hNB9o5vKA

There are more workshops/presentations coming soon.

Google Form for Resolutions and Submissions

Hello members, the Halifax County NSTU Local is looking for your resolutions, submissions, and ideas that you want changed, deleted or added so that they can present them in resolution form to Annual Council 2024. It is very easy, just complete the google form. Those who complete the form will receive a ballot for a Sobeys gift card draws for those who send in their ideas. If you wish to have you name entered into draws for Sobeys gift cards then please fill in your name (optional). Please us the link below or contact Turk Macdonald at tdmacdonald@nstu.ca 

Google form link: https://forms.gle/tR932zjf344yPX7w9

The google form will close on Friday, November 3^rd.

Many Thanks.

Notice of Motion

The executive is looking to add one more committee member to the Social & Wellness Committee. This will be discussed and voted on at our November Rep meeting.

​

Turk MacDonald/Jason Jennings

That Halifax County Local Operational Procedure Social & Wellness Committee14.07 i. be amended to read ‘The Social & Wellness Committee shall consist of 5 6 members plus the committee Chair.’

Strike through means to delete 5 and bold means to replace with 6.

Rationale: The local executive is asking to add one more committee member to the Social & Wellness Committee as a result of the expanded volume of work being accomplished by the committee. The scope of their duties are listed below

1. Duties of the Social & Wellness Committee shall include:
2. regularly attends committee meetings and perform duties as required.
3. sponsor, coordinate, promote and host a variety of activities and programs for Local   members which support teacher physical, social and mental wellness;
4. help organize, promote, and host the annual retirement function.
5. attend and assist with coordinating, promoting, hosting, and arranging entertainment and/or refreshments for Halifax County Local delegates and alternates at Annual Council.
6. research and raise teacher consciousness regarding wellness as a workplace issue;
7. support the membership by promoting the NSTU Member Assistance Programs.
8. where applicable, provide information to other committees as necessary on issues of teacher wellness for inclusion in regional contract negotiations.

It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement

Regional

ARTICLE 3 – SICK LEAVE

3.01 (a) Teachers shall be entitled to twenty (20) days sick leave with full pay, during each year. (b) Sick leave may be claimed by the teacher for purposes of obtaining medical, optical and/or dental treatment that cannot be made outside of school hours.

3.02 Teachers may be required to present a medical certificate in the Form attached, if the illness is more than five (5) consecutive days, or if there is a pattern of illness. Teachers who do not return the Form with complete information by the deadline provided may have their sick leave inactivated until such time as the form is satisfactorily completed, after a review of the individual circumstances.

The full Article can be found at the below link.

HRCE2019web.pdf (windows.net)

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

.

Contact

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”.

Access to all online features is also available in French by visiting https://wwwec7.manulife.com/signin/fr

In solidarity,

Shawn Hanifen

Hi everyone,

This will be a brief Check-In with the reminder that we have a local meeting Wednesday at the Legion in Lower Sackville. Supper is at 5:30pm and the meeting starts at 6. Also please take note of the ERIP application deadline (December 31^st) and upcoming meeting dates.

Announcements

RESOLUTIONS
Reminder that Resolutions will be voted on at our November meeting . We are asking reps and members to submit ideas for resolutions for our next Annual Council. Resolutions may be emailed to Turk MacDonald our First Vice President at tdmacdonald@nstu.ca.

Meeting dates

The Halifax County Local General Meeting dates are as follows:

October 18
November 22
January 10
March 6
April 10
May 8
June 5

*Meetings are held at 6pm (5:30 supper) at the Legion in Lower Sackville.

ERIP
Any member who is retiring this year and interested in an Early Retirement Incentive Plan (ERIP) must apply by December 31^st. Any retiring teacher should reach out to the local’s NSTU executive staff officer, Wally Fiander, for details. The ERIP article (38) and explanation of the Plan (Appendix A) may be found in the Teachers’ Provincial Agreement (TPA) at the link below. The Appendix explains the application process, conditions and other pertinent information. 

Teachers’ Provincial Agreement 2015-2019 (windows.net)

It is in your Provincial/Regional Agreement

ARTICLE 6 RESPECTFUL WORKPLACE AND LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

6.01 Neither the Employer nor Education Entity nor any person acting on behalf of the Employer or Education Entity shall refuse to employ or to continue to employ any teacher or otherwise discriminate against any teacher in regard to employment or any term or condition of employment because the teacher is or was a member of the Union or is or was exercising any right under this Agreement, or Local Agreement, or the Teachers’ Collective Bargaining Act.

6.02 Neither the Employer nor Education Entity nor any person acting on behalf of the Employer or Education Entity shall seek by intimidation, by threat of dismissal, or any other kind of threat, by the imposition of a pecuniary or other penalty or by any other means to compel a teacher to refrain from exercising any right under this Agreement, or Local Agreement, or the Teachers’ Collective Bargaining Act.

6.03 Neither the Employer nor Education Entity nor any person acting on behalf of the Employer or Education Entity shall discriminate against any teacher on the basis of the prohibited grounds as set out under the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act.

6.04 A teacher’s level of teaching certificate or place of residence shall not be just cause for discharge, termination of contract, or phase-out pursuant to 20.05 (ii) (b) of Article 20 Tenure.

6.05 The Union and the Employer recognize the responsibility of Education Entity to establish a policy for the protection of teachers from harassment and abuse pursuant to the Education Act

Teachers’ Provincial Agreement 2015-2019 (windows.net)

Additionally, the employer has a Respectful Workplace Program for all employees. Members may also wish to reach out to their NSTU staff officer, Wally Fiander, as NSTU staff can assist members in navigating the process and provide assistance to your specific concern.

Respectful Workplaces | Halifax Regional Centre for Education (hrce.ca)

NSTU Benefits at a Glance

Over-Age Dependents

Coverage

NSTU Total Care Medical/Dental Program provides coverage for eligible members, their spouses and dependent children to the age of 21, if unmarried and dependent upon the member for maintenance and support. NSTU Group Insurance is supplemental to Provincially Sponsored Medical Plans.

Coverage extended to age 27, if the child is attending an institution of higher learning on a full-time basis, unmarried and dependent upon the member for maintenance and support.

Definitions

“Dependent Children” means either natural children (legitimate or illegitimate), adopted children, or stepchildren of the member who are:

• under 21 years of age, unmarried and dependent upon you for maintenance and support; or
• under 27 years of age and unmarried and in attendance* at an institution of higher learning and dependent upon you for maintenance and support; or
• any functionally impaired child may remain insured past the maximum age. The child, upon reaching the maximum age, must still be incapable of self-sustaining employment and be completely dependent on you for support and maintenance.

“Over-age Dependents” – On your dependent’s 21st birthday you must provide Johnson Inc. proof of full-time attendance at a post-secondary educational institution.

Requirements

All dependent children between the ages of 21 and 27 attending an institution of higher learning must provide Johnson Inc. each September with proof of full-time attendance at a post–secondary educational institution.

Proof must clearly indicate your over-age dependent’s name, full-time status and the semester they are attending.

Please forward one of the following examples of adequate proof of overage dependent status:

1. invoice of tuition paid confirming full-time status
2. a letter from the school confirming full-time status (any associated
   charges are your responsibility)
3. timetable of courses confirming full-time status

Indicate on proof of full-time status, your name plus professional number.

On-line learning reviewed on an individual basis*.

If your over-age dependent discontinues enrolment in a formal education program or graduates, you must notify Johnson Inc. immediately to terminate over-age coverage.

Claims for “Over-Age Dependent” children cannot be processed by Medavie Blue Cross until the “Over-Age Dependent” is registered with Johnson Inc.

Your over-age dependent can use your benefit card. An additional card can be issued upon your request.

Insured dependents who reside outside of the Atlantic Provinces may be required to submit expenses for reimbursement.

Contact

If you have any questions regarding the above, please call the Administrator, Johnson Inc., at 453-9543 or 1-800-453-9543 (toll-free).

email: insurance@nstu.ca or nstu@johnson.ca

Visit the Johnson Inc. website:  www.johnson.c

In solidarity,

Shawn Hanifen