Common use of Ⓐ INTRODUCTION Clause in Contracts

Ⓐ INTRODUCTION. ▇▇▇▇ is committed to creating organizational structures and processes that solidify the collaborative relationship between MCPS and the teachers’ representative orga- nization, MCEA, so that all parties will work together to do what is best for students. We define collaboration as a process in which partners work together in a meaningful way and within a time frame that provides a real opportunity to shape results. The purpose of the process is to work together re- spectfully to resolve problems, address common issues, and identify opportunities for improvement. To be suc- cessful, the collaborative process must be taken seriously and be valued by both parties. The process must be given the time, personal involvement and commitment, hard work, and dedication that are required to be suc- cessful. The partners will identify and define issues of common concern, propose and evaluate solutions, and agree on recommendations. B The Board of Education and the superintendent agree to meet with the Association’s Board of Directors at mutually agreed upon times to discuss matters of in- terest and concern. The Association’s Board of Directors will submit items to be included on the agenda five working days prior to the meeting. The Association’s Board of Directors will meet with the superintendent at least once a month during the term of this agreement to review and discuss matters of mutual concern and administration of this Agreement Ⓒ ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE OF RESPECT The parties are committed to fostering an organiza- tional culture of respect throughout the school system (see Appendix B for the entire document). This culture is built on the belief that all employees are essential for the school system to attain equity and excellence for all students. To accomplish this there must be a SYSTEMWIDE commitment to ▇▇▇▇▇▇ this organizational culture of respect and there must be accountability at all levels of the organization. The parties recognize this collective bargaining relationship is essential to enhance this culture. The organizational culture of respect is based on the following principles: ■ Trust in each other and the process ■ Use of collaborative and interest-based processes ■ Recognition of every employee’s contributions ■ High expectations for all staff and students that are reasonable, clear, and transparent ■ Open, honest contributions without fear of retribution ■ Open and effective communication ■ Respect for various points of view ■ Civility in all our interactions ■ Team building and working together as teams The parties will work together to ensure all employees understand that in order to create this culture, all parties must take responsibility for their own behavior and follow these principles. Managers and supervisors must model this behavior, and all employees are expected to exhibit this behavior at all times. One way to ensure this culture exists throughout MCPS is through the full implementation of the Teachers Professional Growth System. Professional development plans and employee recognition are important com- ponents of this system. In addition, all employees are expected to provide and receive feedback constructively and respectfully. There will be a commitment to resolving issues and problems at the lowest level possible without applying blame.