FAQS

The Fresno Teachers Association (FTA) is committed to ensuring its members fully understand their rights, benefits, and responsibilities under their contract. This FAQ section provides essential information on key topics such as class size guidelines, evaluation processes, and professional standards to help educators navigate their agreements with confidence.

Class Size & Staffing Ratios

Questions About Class Size &
Staffing Ratios

Class size limits and staffing ratios play a critical role in ensuring teachers can provide quality education to their students. The questions below relate to the contractual guidelines for student-to-teacher ratios, overages, and compensation for exceeding limits.

The contract sets specific class size guidelines: TK (1:12), K-3 (1:23), 4-6 (1:28), 7-8 (1:27), and 9-12 (1:28), with planned reductions in the coming years.

If your class exceeds the contract limits, you may be eligible for additional compensation based on the number of extra students assigned.

Yes, secondary alternative education has a different ratio, set at 1:29 per teacher.

Yes, the contract outlines planned reductions over the next two school years to improve student-to-teacher ratios.

The district is responsible for balancing class sizes, and educators can report violations through FTA to ensure compliance.

Evaluations & Professional Standards

Questions About Evaluations & Professional Standards

Teacher evaluations ensure professional growth and accountability while maintaining fair assessment standards. These questions are focused on the evaluation timeline, process, and what to expect during observations.

You will receive notification of your assigned evaluator within the first three weeks of the school year.

A minimum of four formal observations must be conducted before a teacher can receive a “Does Not Meet Standards” rating.

If you believe your evaluation is unfair, you can request a meeting with your evaluator and provide additional documentation to support your performance.

No, evaluators are assigned by the district, but the process must follow contract guidelines for fairness and transparency.

The summative evaluation must be submitted at least 30 days before the end of the school year.

Grievance Process & Contract Enforcement

Questions About Grievance Process & Contract Enforcement

Teachers have the right to challenge contract violations through the grievance process. These questions offer guidance on filing grievances and seeking support.

A grievance is a formal complaint filed when a contract violation occurs, such as class size overages or unfair evaluations.

You should document the issue and submit a grievance form to FTA within the required timeframe outlined in the contract.

Yes, FTA provides representation and support to help you navigate the grievance process.

The district will review your grievance, and if necessary, the matter may proceed to mediation or arbitration.

No, grievances must be formally filed by the affected teacher, but FTA can advise on the best approach to protect your rights.