Grievance Information
Grievance Information
The grievance process exists to protect members’ contractual rights and ensure workplace concerns are addressed fairly and consistently. Whether you are trying to understand what constitutes a grievance, learn more about the role of your building delegate, or need guidance on documenting and filing a grievance, the resources below are designed to help.
Strong communication, effective representation, and solidarity are essential to protecting our collective rights—and the Buffalo Teachers Federation is here to support members throughout that process.
Grievance Processing System
Access grievance updates, track the progress of active grievances, and view important information related to Levels 1, 2, and 3. Additional grievance-specific details and resources are available through the member login portal.
Click below to access the system.
What Is a Grievance?
Before beginning the grievance process, it is important to determine whether the issue is actually a grievance.
A grievance is a claim that there has been a violation, misinterpretation, misapplication, or inequitable application of the Contract or Board personnel policies. In other words, a grievance involves concerns that directly relate to and potentially violate contractual rights or established policies.
Determining whether an issue rises to the level of a grievance often requires reviewing the circumstances carefully, discussing the situation in detail, and consulting the relevant sections of the Contract. Some situations may fall into gray areas where the answer is not always clear.
If you are unsure whether your concern qualifies as a grievance, contact the BTF. Questions are often easier to address early, and support is available to help members understand their rights and options.
Role of a Delegate
Delegates are the frontline representatives of the Buffalo Teachers Federation in each building. Their role is to help enforce the Collective Bargaining Agreement, support members, and serve as a link between the membership and the Federation.
When a member raises a concern, delegates should listen carefully, gather relevant information, maintain confidentiality, and consult with BTF staff when needed. Facts are essential, so delegates should ensure that concerns are thoroughly documented and that all relevant information is collected before moving forward.
Delegates are responsible for helping members navigate the grievance process, explaining procedures, monitoring timelines, and working with BTF staff to prepare and present grievances when appropriate. They should encourage members to be actively involved in the process and help them understand their rights under the contract.
During meetings with administrators, delegates should remain professional, organized, and focused on the facts. Their responsibility is to advocate for the member, clearly identify the contractual issue, and seek an appropriate resolution while maintaining a respectful and productive working relationship.
Delegates also play an important role in monitoring contract compliance throughout the building. When potential violations arise, they should bring concerns forward, work with affected members, and notify the Federation when additional assistance is needed.
Above all, delegates should be informative, tactful, supportive, and fair. By enforcing the contract, protecting members’ rights, and promoting unity within the building, delegates help ensure that every member has access to strong union representation.
Writing a Grievance
​Before drafting a grievance, always consult with BTF staff. They can help identify the appropriate contract articles, ensure timelines are met, and assist in developing the strongest case possible.
When writing a grievance:
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- Keep it concise. Include only the basic facts necessary to identify the issue.
- State the contract violation. List all applicable contract articles that may have been violated.
- Request a remedy. Clearly state how the violation should be corrected.
- Avoid arguments and evidence. Detailed explanations, supporting evidence, and justifications should be reserved for meetings and discussions with administration.
- Remain professional. The grievance should reflect the Union’s position, not personal opinions or criticism of individuals.
- Do not unnecessarily limit the remedy. When appropriate, request that the grievant and all affected parties be “made whole,” including any specific remedies that may apply.
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Before filing:
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- Review the grievance with the grievant to ensure all facts are accurate.
- Make sure the grievant understands and agrees with the requested remedy.
- Obtain the required signatures from the grievant and BTF representative.
- Gather and preserve all relevant documents, records, correspondence, and supporting materials.
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Throughout the process, keep members informed when appropriate, maintain solidarity, and prepare each case as though it may advance to arbitration. Thorough documentation and careful preparation are essential to achieving a successful outcome.