When extra work doesn’t ‘count’. Let's Talk

Ive recently posted on this topic and now have more information from Human Resources and my Principal. For going on six years, I’ve worked as a PE TA coach in an Florida elementary school. Recently, I learned that when the PE instructor covers extra students sent to us from Art, Media, and Music (when they are out), He receives comp time under his contract. But when I do the same, I don’t qualify for compensation because I’m classified as a “teacher assistant.”

Human Resources explanation? Adding more students to PE “doesn’t count” as class coverage for a TA.

"With regard to class coverage. The teacher gets comp time due to language in the contract regarding the supervision of additional students. TA’s would receive compensation if they are pulled to go cover other classes in excess of 2 ½ hours. Adding students to PE would not constitute the parameters for monetary or time compensation in your position."

It’s frustrating to see how these technical loopholes impact real people. My workload increases, safety becomes a concern, and staff equity disappears, yet I’m still not compensated with time or money.

This isn’t just about the pay. It’s about fairness and respect for all the people who make schools run.