They wanted to know if there were grounds for his termination; if due process was provided to him; what awaits PSS; and the job security in the school system.
The Association of Commonwealth Teachers, in its official position sent to the board, yesterday said: “If we want to keep highly qualified teachers in the CNMI, we simply must be treated as professionals. These include due process, check and balance system for ensuring all PSS employees are treated fairly, particularly in matters regarding continued employment.”
According to Betty Miller, ACT president, the board will be provided all the “opinions, comments, letters” of teachers within this week regarding Borja’s termination.
But the names of the teachers will be omitted from the approximately 20 letters that will be sent to the board.
The board said it cannot discuss personnel matters, but added that the decision to terminate Borja was discussed “thoroughly” by the members.
According to the board, teachers and other PSS employees should not fear for their job security because it is only the education commissioner who serves at the pleasure of BOE.
According to Miller, “We respect BOE’s decision and we recognize that it was within their rights to choose a new commissioner. We’re just inquiring as to how this decision was made and if it was done in fair way.”
She said they were satisfied with yesterday’s meeting which heard the concerns of teachers.
BOE wants to name a new commissioner in August before regular classes open on Sept. 8.
