Q. – What are my employment rights? 

A. - Your membership in NPEA/NSEA/NEA ensures you that assistance will be provided where deemed necessary, by an attorney retained by NSEA.  Whether it’s a contract problem, a grievance, or if you receive a poor evaluation, be sure to get advice early.  Don’t wait to see what happens!  If possible, ask a local association representative to accompany you when called in for an unexpected or potentially negative conference with the administration.  Both the member and the representative should listen carefully, take notes, and not make much of a response until you have sought advice.  Never offer to resign or accept a proposal without consulting NSEA.

Q. – How should I handle evaluations and reprimands?

A. – Always sign an evaluation, observation form, or reprimand when directed to do so, even if you disagree with its contents.  Failure to do so could be construed as insubordination.  If the form does not indicate the following, then add this sentence to your signature:  “My signature indicates only that I have received this document and does not necessarily indicate that I agree with its contents.”  Then seek immediate assistance from NSEA in preparing a response.

Q. – Can I look at my personnel file?

A. – Nebraska law gives you the right to review the contents of your personnel file and to attach a written response to any item in such file.  Review your file annually and be certain to request examination of all personnel files the district maintains on you.

Q. – What do I do if my employment status changes?

A.  Contact NSEA immediately if you receive a written notice of suspension, nonrenewal, contract amendment, termination, cancellation, or reduction-in-force.  The law allows only 7 calendar days in which to respond – seek advice at once!

Q. – Do I have liability insurance?

Q. – What if I didn’t turn my contract in on time?

A. – Failure to return a contract on the specified date may constitute a resignation – so be certain to return the contract on time.  Nebraska law provides that a school district may not require you to sign a contract for the following year prior to March 15^th.  Once you have entered into a contract for a given year, you must perform the duties unless released from the contract through action by the Board of Education.  Breaking a contract may result in a one-year suspension of your teaching certificate, thus making you ineligible to teach.

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Q.  – What is professional growth? 

A. – If you have served in the NPPSD for at least 3 years then you have reached permanent (tenured) status.  Nebraska law requires permanent, certificated employees to give evidence of professional growth every 6 years from the date that permanent status was achieved.  According to the NPPSD negotiated agreement, you have to earn a minimum of 90 clock hours of continuing education during these 6 years.  Failure to give evidence of professional growth could result in contract termination.