COA September 20, 2023: Unhealthy Air Quality - Please Stay Indoors

Dear COA Community,

The air quality index (AQI) in Alameda is currently at 151 - Unhealthy. For our colleagues who work outdoors, please modify your work immediately and stay indoors. If the index climbs to 160 or greater, everyone has the option of leaving work and returning home without loss of compensation.

Also, per Article 12 Section G of the Collective Bargaining Agreement faculty members have the right to dismiss a class without loss of compensation. Please, read the below announcement from PFT President Jeff Sanceri.

We will continue to monitor the situation and send additional reminders as needed.

Please, stay indoors and healthy.

Warmly,

Diana

Dr. Diana Bajrami
Acting President
College of Alameda

Peralta Faculty,

The AQI (Air Quality Index) this morning has risen just into the unhealthy range in the East Bay Area, and I know that many of you are concerned about your health and the health of your students. Article 12, Section G of our Collective Bargaining Agreement States:

Class Dismissal

Faculty members will have the right to dismiss a class without loss of compensation for that workday when the health or safety of employees is believed to be endangered. The faculty member must report the incident in writing to their administrator as soon as possible, but no later than 24 hours after the incident or the next workday.

As of this morning, the air quality index is hovering just at the “unhealthy” range. All faculty who feel that the air quality is unsafe for them or their students should cancel their classes and, per Article 12, will not lose compensation or sick leave. All faculty are encouraged to use their judgment in determining what is safe and appropriate.

If you have any questions or need any additional information, please feel free to reach out.

Jeff Sanceri
History Instructor, COA
President, Peralta Federation of Teachers, AFT 1603
jsanceri@peralta.edu