After the initial Handbook discussions one open item around the issue of filling vacancies in the support units remained. We were directed to continue to meet to try to reach consensus on this item.
Originally, we had recommended that the language in the Handbook with regard to vacancies state as follows:
Vacancies shall first be filled by employees in surplus. The District has the right to determine and select the most qualified applicant for any position. The term applicant refers to both internal and external candidates for the position.
The District retains the right to determine the job qualifications needed for any vacant position. Minimum qualifications shall be established by the District and equally applied to all persons.The rationale for this language change is that it is essential that the District has the ability to hire the most qualified candidate for any vacant position—whether an internal candidate or an external candidate. This language is currently used for transfers in the teacher unit. Thus, it creates consistency across employee groups.