Please join us on March 4, 2011 for our annual spring seminar for public sector clients and friends, when we will address issues facing school districts, municipalities and other governmental agencies.

The program begins with a plenary session covering general issues in the workplace, followed by breakout sessions allowing a choice from several topics of great interest and issue discussion in a small group setting.  Click here to register.  Seating is limited so reserve your seat today! 

When: 

March 4, 2011
8:00 AM – 12:15 PM

 

Where: 

Rocky Hill Marriott 
100 Capital Boulevard 
Rocky Hill, CT 06067

 

Event Details:  Download Printable PDF

Plenary Session:

  • With federal and state government deficits on the rise and aid to public agencies in jeopardy, what will this budget season bring?
  • Discussion of how to effectively review and prioritize the functions of your agency and streamline, restructure or implement cuts as necessary.
  • Bargaining concessions, negotiation of initial or successor agreements and arbitration of cases.
  • Tips for monitoring expenses, responding to unanticipated costs and living within your means once an agreement has been reached and a budget adopted.
  • Annual update of latest trends in wages and benefits.

Breakout Sessions (Please Choose Two)

I. THE COST OF FREEDOM:
The Obligations of Public Agencies under the Freedom of Information Act

  • Inundation of public agencies with inquiries and requests for information.
  • What information must be provided and in what form? How quickly must a response be received? What costs can be charged to the requestor?
  • Tips for dealing with vague or broad requests.
  • Review of requirements pertaining to agendas, meetings and minutes.

II. WHAT THE WINDS OF POLITICAL CHANGE MEAN TO YOU:
A Legal Update

  • What do the significant changes in political leadership at the federal and state level mean for public agencies and their employees?
  • Possible new legislative agendas and the changes that may impact employees and the workplace.
  • Possible changes in programs and enforcement efforts.
  • Recent labor and employment case developments.

III. PLAY BALL:
Legal Issues Associated with Sports in the Public Schools and Municipal Recreation Departments

  • What training is necessary for coaches and volunteers?
  • What reference checks should be performed and what employee supervision is required for children’s programs?
  • Approaches for promoting safety and preventing athletic injuries and liability.
  • Strategies for facilitating participation of persons with disabilities.

IV. BRINGING DOWN BULLIES: 
Strategies for Preventing and Addressing Bullying in the Schools and Workplace

  • Bullying and workplace violence in the headlines.
  • What codes of conduct and policies will facilitate appropriate behavior and teamwork?
  • Prevention strategies and tips for promptly detecting and addressing bullying incidents.
  • Navigating the disciplinary process and lessons learned.