They’ve made their choice — now we make ours.

IPS senior management has chosen to stand in the way of educators rising up to defend our schools. They refused to close for Monday’s Day of Action, blocked time-off requests in Kronos, and sent out threatening emails discouraging using our contractual leave. But here’s the truth:

They are not above the contract. We know our rights and we’re ready to fight.

Here’s what’s really going on:

1. PERSONAL DAYS

Our Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) (Article 1, Section 1) is crystal clear:

“Personal days shall be used for any purpose at the discretion of the teacher”

“No reason must be given other than personal business”

There is no contractual language that allows IPS to deny personal day requests. If they do, your contract is being violated. If your personal day is denied, report it immediately. We will file a grievance.

2. SICK DAYS

If Kronos blocks you from submitting a sick day request, or if you’re told you must provide a doctor’s note after one day — that’s another violation.

The Staff Dependability Administrative Guidelines only requires a doctor’s note after three consecutive days.

If you’re asked for one sooner, report it. We’ll grieve that too.

Yes, IPS can log 1 occurrence for suspected inappropriate sick leave and no documentation provided, but it takes 4–5 occurrences to even reach the first disciplinary step, which is a non-punitive counseling statement. You have protection, and we’ll back you up.

3. NO CALL / NO SHOW

This is the only route where they can immediately log 2 occurrences and put you one infraction away from possible termination. If you don’t have time entered in Kronos, be sure to submit your absence properly and inform your admin.

BOTTOM LINE:

If you submit time off and they deny it, don’t back down. Document everything. Report it. IEA will file individual grievances for every single violation. If they want a fight over the contract, we’ll give them one — and we’ll win.

If you’re going to the Statehouse Monday: Stand proud. You are not alone.

If you’re staying back: Build solidarity. Let your coworkers know their rights.

If you’re not a union member yet: There’s no better time to join. Early Enrollment is OPEN. Pay nothing until September. Build power now. Join here: https://www.ista-in.org/joinnow

This is more than a protest. It’s a test of strength. A contract is only as powerful as our willingness to enforce it.

We are the union. We are the workers. IPS runs because we show up.

On Monday, let’s show them what happens when we rise together.

Indianapolis Education Association Organizers & Area Representatives

Day of Action Q&A?

When and where is the Day of Action?

ISTA has called for a Day of Action at the Statehouse on Monday, April 14, beginning at 10am.

What is the purpose of the Day of Action?

The event comes in response to a wave of legislation that will have major impacts on Public Schools across Indiana. These include SB 1 (which is headed to the Governor’s Desk), and SB 373. Overall, our goal is to send a message that we continue to seek the full funding of public schools across the street, and that any decisions that impact the funding, operations, or working conditions should include teacher voices at the table. We also oppose state overreach that would allow the state to unilaterally close any school corporation.

How can I participate during a work day?

Unfortunately, State House business often conflicts with citizen’s ability to participate during the work day. That said, your Union contract spells out and protects your rights to use paid time off without reprisal from your employer. Consult with your contract, local leadership, or Uniserv Director for specific questions or guidelines on your use of specific types of paid time off. Your local may also have Association Leave time available for this purpose, but this time is limited and you should contact your AR or Executive Board for more information.

I’ve heard some schools are closing for the day, is mine?

There are some schools and districts around the state that have or are considering closing school for the day to allow teachers and students to exercise their democratic rights at the statehouse. Unless you have specifically been told your school is closed per your district policies, you should assume you must use your own time to attend.

Why is IPS not closing?

When Dr. Johnson was asked to consider an asynchronous learning day, she cited that we would have to change the school year calendar and was unwilling to make the accommodation, even after being given a compromise from our union for an IEA member to sit on the new Indianapolis Local Education Alliance (ILEA).

Can I be retaliated against for attending?

Your right to participate in the democratic process is a constitutionally protected one. Furthermore, your Union contract protects the use of your paid time off. We cannot ever stop a manager from breaking the law, the contract, or policy. But we can hold them accountable if they do. If you feel you are being targeted, or are concerned that it could happen, reach out to your AR or local leadership.

I’m not an ISTA member. Can I attend?

Absolutely! We encourage you to join us to make your voice heard. The Union’s power comes from the collective strength of its members. We hope you add your voice to ours, and come and see what your dues money would go towards if you decide to join us!

Could I be arrested/injured/or professionally harmed by attending?

This is a peaceful event where teacher voices will finally be heard across the state on these critical topics. ISTA staff is preparing an event that will protect your right to speak and assemble.

Can I bring signs?

Yes! Creative signs make events like this a powerful and fun experience. Please just make sure that your signs are consistent with the message of the event in elevating teacher voices, including teachers in the decision making process, and fully funding public education. Remember we want to send a powerful and clear message to our elected officials.

Can I bring my family?

Definitely! We believe in engaging in the legislative process as a community. We especially believe in sharing these experiences with children to help them learn to become the next generation of engaged citizens.