Every protection on this page was bargained by DEA members. It only works if you know it exists.
Your contract is not fine print. It is your working conditions, in writing.
These are plain-language summaries, not the contract itself — the exact contract text controls, and articles change when we bargain. Before acting on any leave or right, talk to your site rep or the Teachers Advocate. That is literally what we are here for.
Use accumulated sick days when life happens:
For an illness or injury expected to keep you out for an extended period:
Up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave for your own serious health condition, a new child, or care of a family member. The interaction between federal, state, and contractual leave is where people lose weeks they were entitled to — ask us early.
You and your evaluator develop mutually acceptable goals, standards, objectives, and a work plan — completed by the end of the 8th school week. "Mutually acceptable" means your voice counts.
Periodic reviews and conferences through the year, with a remediation plan when appropriate. No surprises — concerns should reach you when something can still be done about them.
Formal evaluations delivered at least 30 calendar days before the end of the school year; evaluation conferences completed on or before June 1.
Summaries are a map, not the territory. The full agreement and the laws behind it:
DEA Collective Bargaining Agreement (PDF) →California Education Code · EERA / PERB · CTA — Teachers’ Rights
