Protecting Project-Based Learning

HTEC educators are committed to project-based learning and are dedicated to establishing contract language that allows it to thrive across our 16 schools. To achieve this:

• Educators must have flexible planning time to ensure adequate preparation for equitable, engaging, and authentic projects.
• Educators should be treated as professionals capable of managing their time and completing tasks off-campus when necessary for project-based learning.
• Classroom caps must support hands-on, student-centered projects that ensure differentiated learning experiences for all students.
• To put true meaning to the principle of collaborative design, HTH must establish a shared-governance structure that includes educators, staff and school administrators.

Qualified Teachers and Support for Every Classroom

Having a qualified teacher and adequate support in every classroom ensures that all students receive equitable, high-quality education tailored to their diverse needs. To meet this standard:

• All campuses must have sufficient staff and programs to ensure students are physically, emotionally, and mentally prepared for success.
• Educators need consistent access to coaching and resources to maximize instruction in a project-based learning environment.
• HTH must employ and retain highly trained personnel that can support the diverse needs of our students.
• Staffing levels must align with the needs of students with IEPs, including their required support minutes, to ensure equitable access to the educational experience.
• To foster teacher growth in the PBL setting, school administration must provide effective support and timely feedback to new educators.

Sustainable and Safe Working and Learning Conditions

• Creating sustainable, safe, and supportive schools enables educators to teach effectively and students to learn in a setting that promotes a sense of success and well-being. To support this:
• Educators must have the flexibility to use sick and personal days to care for ourselves and our families.
• Educators deserve duty-free lunch breaks and restroom access so that we can perform at our best.
• The work year should align with industry standards, especially regarding the number of non-instructional days.
• HTH must prioritize safe schools that support the health and well-being of staff and students.
• To retain experienced staff, HTH must offer child care options and provide flexibility for attending school events.
• HTH should implement restorative justice and positive behavior systems across all campuses.
• HTH must provide clear guidelines, sufficient lead time, and transparent communication regarding changes to room assignments, positions and teaching partners.

Equitable Pay and Benefits for Educators

• HTEC educators recognize that fair compensation is essential for attracting and retaining quality educators and staff in America’s most expensive city. To achieve this:
• HTH must enact a competitive wage scale that encourages educators to make a career at HTH, not just start one.
• ​HTH must have a more equitable salary schedule that rewards professional experiences, advanced degrees, and certifications that enrich teaching and learning.
• The PBL model demands significant time and effort outside regular classroom hours; educators should be compensated accordingly.
• Stipends and hourly pay structures must align with industry standards and reward educators that contribute to the community beyond the classroom.
• Educators deserve flexible payment options that help to manage the year-round challenge of living in San Diego.
• Competitive benefits are essential to support the health and well-being of staff and their families while also ensuring HTH remains competitive with surrounding