Teachers union urges clearer communication after Woodworth evacuation; offers partnership on outreach

Joseph Sikinator, speaking for the Dearborn Federation of Teachers, told trustees March 9 that poor building‑level communication following a recent Woodworth School evacuation had created anxiety among staff and asked the district to provide clearer, earlier information about hazards, testing and expected reopening timelines.

Sikinator said staff reported smelling a rotten‑egg odor, were evacuated and then heard varying rumors about a carbon‑monoxide leak; he urged the district to send a short explanatory email stating what is known, what is not known, what is being done and when the next update will come. “Clearly outlining what is known, what is not known, and what could or should be done about it removes uncertainty and helps build trust,” he said.

Sikinator also called for stronger outreach for superintendent‑search meetings and surveys after low attendance and said the union can help publicize sessions and encourage staff participation. Trustees and administration acknowledged the concerns and said they would work on improving building‑level communications and that the district tries to be transparent while also following safety and regulatory procedures.

The board’s business office later presented a budget and grants update; trustees asked whether communication strategies for emergencies and engagement could be strengthened across buildings and departments.

Next steps: Trustees directed administrators to consider communications improvements and the union offered to help publicize forthcoming meetings and survey opportunities.