STEWARD'S ROLE IN ARBITRATION

Experienced stewards and officers will learn how grievances culminate in the arbitration process.  This course begins when the case is scheduled for hearing and follows through closing arguments, so that union representatives are familiar with the advocate's needs at arbitration.  This class is a hands-on, fast paced experience that requires hard work, dedication and homework.

This is NOT a certification class for arbitration advocates.  Students must have taken basic and advanced grievance handling courses.

close

DEFENSE vs DISCIPLINE:

Strategies of Due Process and Just Cause

This class will examine, in detail, the necessary arguments and best defenses when discipline is initiated.  Particular emphasis will be placed on the pre-disciplinary interview as well as examination of arbitral history in discipline cases and utilization of the interview in formulating defenses.

This class is recommended for stewards and representatives with prior grievance investigation and processing training

close

ADVANCED STRATEGIES FOR CONTRACT ISSUES

This class provides training and group discussions with in-depth analysis of specific issues, focusing on common problem areas and problem-solving techniques. 

Assumes previous experience and training in grievance processing

close

STEP 2 / STEP 2A MEETING:

Grievance Improvement Before, During & After

Students should be identified as their Local's Step 2 designee or Branch Step A Designee or simply an experienced shop steward seeking to improve the quality of the grievances they assemble.  Students will review / verify / determine completeness or the needs of a grievance packet advanced by a shop steward to the Union's Step 2 / Step A Designee as well as tips and techniques for success in that meeting.

close

CONNECTIONS:  STAYING IN TOUCH WITH YOUR LOCAL

Participants of any skill level can learn effective uses of media and interpersonal relations to further their organization's goals and develop a solid network for solidarity.  This class is not about filing grievances, but rather how to stay connected and foster a successful and continued relationship with your membership.

close

LABOR LAW

Labor law impacts every aspect of the workplace from hours, wages, workplace surveillance to discrimination, sexual harassment and your right to take family or medical leave.  This class helps you know your rights and how to protect them.

close

INTERVIEWS AS EVIDENCE:

The Strategic Investigative Strategy

This class will examine, in detail, the interview as the vital tool in a steward's investigative arsenal.  Particular emphasis will be placed on the incorporation of the interview -- as evidence -- into a grievance appeal.  Strategic question formulation and the actual interview process will also be covered. 

This class is recommended for stewards and representatives with prior grievance investigation and processing training.

close

ROADMAP TO WINNING

The strategic step by step grievance investigation, development and presentation through compartmentalization of facts, evidence, CBA reference & argument.  Also discussed will be newly developed grievance appeal and meeting record forms as well as Step 2 strategies. 

Recommended for the steward who has completed the Basic Grievance Handling course at the Postal Labor Unions Summer School. 

close

HANDBOOKS & MANUALS

Analyzing the provisions of Article 19, focusing on handbook and manual strategies to grievance handling.  Learn how to find the provisions you need and how to apply regulations to support contract enforcement.  This class also delves into contract language, application, and research techniques.  Hands-on experience with electronic versions of handbooks and manuals, to focus on quick and efficient retrieval of information the new-age way.  A laptop computer that will read CDs is helpful, but not required.  (a limited number will be available during the class for those not able to bring their own)

close

BASIC GRIEVANCE HANDLING

A traditional course for beginning stewards, this class provides an overview of the contract through it's analytical approach to recognizing violations of the collective bargaining agreement and deciding which provisions could apply in a given circumstance.  Students also learn to investigate and process grievances, and enforce the contract through Article 15.  Also addresses rights and responsibilities of shop stewards.  A laptop computer that will read CDs is helpful, but not required  (a limited number will be available)

close