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Para‑to‑pro pipeline, ESOL compliance discussed in Citrus County bargaining kickoff
Summary
Bargaining teams reviewed the para‑to‑pro pipeline and ESOL training/compliance paths; a district speaker cited about 19 program graduates and negotiators agreed to discuss program supports and certification pathways at a future session.
CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — During the Aug. 11 bargaining kickoff, negotiators spent an extended section reviewing the para‑to‑pro pipeline and state ESOL endorsement requirements, and discussed how contract language and district supports might help staff meet certification obligations.
Brenda Badomo, director of risk management, described the para‑to‑pro program’s structure and outcomes: “I wanna say if my numbers are correct, there’s been 19 graduates that are in the program that graduated from a Power Pro… and are teaching in our schools right now.” She said the program includes paid internship elements and partnerships (notably with Saint Leo) designed to retain participants at assigned schools.
On ESOL endorsements, district staff and negotiators outlined two common paths to compliance: accumulating required hours (for example, recurring 60‑hour blocks toward 120 hours) and passing the state ESOL test after completing prescribed coursework. Speakers distinguished between "out‑of‑field" labeling (which triggers time‑limited remediation) and compliance categories that differ by assignment (elementary vs. secondary roles).
Why it matters: negotiators said several longtime employees may not have ESOL endorsements on their certificates even after long careers, and establishing clear contract language or transition timelines could help staff come into compliance without disrupting school placements.
Next steps: the bargaining teams agreed to request a subject‑matter presenter (HR or student‑services staff) at a future meeting to supply precise records and options for employees who need time to complete training or testing. No policy changes were adopted at the kickoff; the discussion will inform later drafting and possible contract language.
The session closed with the parties agreeing to circulate any existing memoranda of understanding or program documentation before the next meeting so members can review program details and numbers ahead of a formal discussion.
