Full-Time Faculty Negotiations Update
Yesterday, the Circuit Court of Howard County decided an appellate case regarding management and negotiation practices between Howard Community College and the American Federation of Teachers, representing the college's full-time faculty union.
Since January 2024, HCC senior leadership has presented information to the Maryland Public Employee Relations Board (PERB) on the nature and timelines of union claims of unfair labor practices and retaliation. These claims have primarily surrounded the implementation of seven-week course modules and standards of faculty promotion.
PERB initially dismissed these claims in August 2024, and the circuit court upheld this decision yesterday, affirming HCC’s right to determine its function and programs outside negotiations with the union.
We first want to acknowledge that mutual goals of fairness, respect, and civility in any dialog can move HCC forward. The PERB decision shows that we should continue to make every effort to work collaboratively and transparently, keeping student success and institutional sustainability at the heart of our negotiations.
The college and our union partners share a commitment to quality teaching and learning and maintaining a campus culture built on meeting students where they dream. Working together will foster an environment where all voices are heard and respected.
We will continue to model for our students, neighbors, and community how we can be and deliver our best for the college and our region, even in difficult conversations. We look forward to continuing to communicate with and partner with our esteemed faculty.