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Kentucky Labor Cabinet Secretary David Dickerson announced that the Cabinet’s Office of Inspector General has completed the investigation into whether Kentucky teachers engaged in an illegal work stoppage, also known as a “sick out,” during the 2019 session of the General Assembly. The investigation found that 1,074 teachers did violate Kentucky law, which clearly prohibits work stoppages.
KRS 336.050(2) gives the Cabinet the discretion to prosecute and assess civil penalties of up to $1,000 per person, per day of work stoppage on any violation of a labor law in the state of Kentucky. Dickerson noted that while no penalties will be assessed for violations in this specific instance, this investigation was necessary to ensure that public schools remain open during the upcoming school year and that similar work stoppages do not occur in the future.
“Kentucky law clearly prohibits public-sector employees from engaging in work stoppages that many teachers engaged in during the early months of 2019,” noted Dickerson. “Those teachers who participated in this concerted effort were in clear violation of the law, as noted by the Kentucky Education Association and recently affirmed by a federal court.”
In a clear and decisive victory for the Cabinet, United States District Judge Danny Reeves acknowledged that the Labor Cabinet had every right to investigate public school teachers for their conduct. “Kentucky statutes explicitly grant the Labor Cabinet the authority to prosecute and assess civil penalties against public employees, which includes public-school teachers who may have violated KRS Chapter 336,” Reeves stated. “Students are expected to attend classes. If they fail to do so without a valid excuse, their absence is duly-noted and appropriate action is taken. But the teachers at the center of this controversy expect[ed] different treatment.” A full copy of the Court’s Order can be found here.
“It is important to note what the Court explicitly stated,” added Dickerson. “Citizens of the Commonwealth have a strong and continuing interest in public schools remaining open during the school year. The purpose of the Cabinet’s investigation was to undertake a thorough investigation into conduct by some public school teachers and ensure that work stoppages do not happen again so that public schools will be able to fulfill their mission to educate the children of Kentucky. The Cabinet remains dedicated to that mission and will continue to monitor any future ‘sick outs’ closely for further violations of Kentucky labor law.”
“Let it be clearly understood that the grace extended in this instance will not be extended for future such proven violations,” said Dickerson. “The public cannot tolerate another illegal work stoppage in our schools. It is important for public school teachers to understand the level of seriousness that, by law, the Labor Cabinet must and will give to any future work stoppages. We dedicate ourselves to students and parents across the Commonwealth to make sure that this doesn’t happen again, and that our schools will remain open.”
Neighborhood Place partners provide several opportunities to benefit your health including a Healthy Living Club, an educational baby shower, a Freedom from Smoking Class and much more. To learn more about these offerings, please refer to the list below.
Feb 4, 11 and 21, Passport Health Care Community Engagement at two locations
Passport members are invited to join representatives from Passport Health Care for one-on-one consultations to discuss plan benefits and options. This is a great opportunity as Passport aims to raise awareness and educate the community about the Passport Health Plan mission. Passport members will receive a $10 retail gift card for attending.
- Feb. 4 and 11, at First Neighborhood Place, 1503 Rangeland Rd (door #16) side of Thomas Jefferson Middle School, 1 – 3 p.m. Call (502) 212-6677 to leave a message telling us that you want to attend.
- Feb 21 at South Jefferson Neighborhood Place, 1000 Neighborhood Place, Fairdale, 2 -3 p.m. Call 1-800-578-0603, ext. 8428 to sign up.
Feb. 7, The Center for Women and Families Outreach at First Neighborhood Place, 1- 5 p.m.
Located at 1503 Rangeland Rd (door #24) side of Thomas Jefferson Middle School. For more information, contact Nayelyi Sanchez, Domestic Violence Advocate at (502) 581-7270. Staff with the Center for Women and Families will be on-hand to give an overview of their services which include trauma-informed advocacy and support for qualified families and individuals with supportive services; emergency shelter; sexual assault services; housing; children’s services and more.
Feb 7, Sodexo Hiring Opportunities at First Neighborhood Place, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Located at 1503 Rangeland Road (T.J. Middle School in the W.D. Bruce Building – door #24). Call 313-4700 for more information. Sodexo, a food-service agency, will provide on-the-spot interviews for positions with Jewish Hospital, Our Lady of Peace and University of Louisville Hospital. Bring your resume and be prepared for an interview. This is one of Sodexo’s busiest hiring seasons. Stop by if you are looking for employment that can lead to a full-time or part-time position.
Feb. 12, Free Energy Management Workshops at First Neighborhood Place, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Located at 1503 Rangeland Rd. Call 313-4728 or 313-4700 for reservations. Project Warm’s free workshops help families take control of their energy usage and learn “do-it-yourself” energy-saving tips. Free supplies will be distributed at the end of the workshop such as clear plastic/tape for windows, caulk to seal openings around windows and sealing foam. Reservations needed to reserve materials
Feb. 12, 19 and 26, Healthy Living Club at South Jefferson Neighborhood Place, 1 – 2 p.m.
Located at 1000 Neighborhood Place. Call 363-1483 for more information. Classes are open to anyone interested in gaining more knowledge to live a better and more fulfilling life. This month’s workshops beginning Feb. 12th are focused on finances including these topics: “Banking”, “How to Use Credit”, “Scams You May Encounter”, and “Financial Abuse- Are You A Victim”. Guest Speakers are Joseph Cecil with Bank on Louisville and Sandra Pace with the U.S. Armed Forces.
Feb. 14 and 20, A Healthy Journey for Two Educational Baby Shower at two locations
For more information, contact Mendy Mason at 502-341-5400. A Healthy Journey for Two is an educational baby shower open to any expectant mothers. The class will include a range of information and resources, as well as free baby items, gift cards, prizes, and snacks. Hosted by Seven Counties and KIDSNow. Fathers are welcome but must be registered.
- Feb. 14 at First Neighborhood Place, 1503 Rangeland Rd. 1 – 3 p.m.
- Feb. 20 at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 3610 Bohne Ave., 1- 3 p.m.
Wednesdays, beginning Feb. 20, Freedom from Smoking Class at South Jefferson Neighborhood Place, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Located at 1000 Neighborhood Place. Call 772-8588 for more information or to sign up for the class. This seven-week program features a step-by-step plan for quitting smoking and each session is designed to help smokers gain control over the behavior. Participants are eligible to receive some free nicotine patches for attending the classes.
January is proving to be a busy month at the Kentucky Exposition Center. Admission varies by event, but parking is $10 per vehicle per event.
The year kicks off of with the end the Kentucky Flea Market New Year’s Spectacular. The event starts on December 29th and includes free admission. As an added bonus, if you make a purchase at the Flea Market, parking will be half price.
Next up on the calendar is the National Wrestling Coaches Association Multi-Divisional Natioanl Duals. The two day event will feature the some of the best atheletes from Division II, III, NAIA, NJCAA and Women’s programs from across the country. Tickets start at $17 for students and $25 for adults, plus parking at the Exposition center.
January 5th will be the Yugioh! Regional Qualifier. Entry fee is $20 (spectators are free) and includes 5 packs of soul fusion. More information about tournament structure and format can be found online.
January 6th will be the Kentucky Bridal and Wedding Expo. Tickets are $10 at the door (or free if acquired online in advance).
January 10-12: Members of ATA can attend the Archery Trade Association show.
January 12 and 13: The Great Train Show is designed for anyone interested in model trains. The show will feature more than 40 exhibitors, model train displays, workshops, and a riding train for children. Children are free with an adult. Tickets are available online.
January 18-20: The Outdoor Life/Field and Stream Expo. This Expo was formerly named the Deer and Turkey Expo. Anyone interested in the outdoors, or hunting will find something here. The show will feature a trophy contest, seminars, archery and shooting ranges, and more. Tickets can be purchased in advanced online at a discounted price.
January 19-20: National Gun Day JAG Military Gun Show. More information to be announced as the event gets closer.
January 23-27: Louisville Boat, RV and Sport Show Children under 12 are free with adult. Tickets are available for purchase online.
January 25-27: USA BMX Bluegrass Nationals. Freedom Hall will become an indoor BMX racing track as athletes compete in the second of 13 events. The event is open to the public.
January 26-27: The Crown Cheer & Dance Championship. This event will be held in the Broadbent Arena and admission is $15 per person (children 5 and younger are free with adult).
January 30-February 1: Midwest Manufacturing Housing Federation Show This is not a public show and only people that are involved in the industry will be admitted.
Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) today opened the application period for prospective charter schools with the release of its Request for Charter School Applications (RFCSA). Applications, for schools looking to open in the 2020/21 school year, are due at noon on Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2019.
The process includes a review by district personnel and community partners of each application submitted, applicant interviews and public comment.
This is the second cycle for charter school applications that JCPS has held. The district opened its inaugural application cycle this spring – the only Kentucky school district to do so since passage of charter school legislation in 2017.
“Although the legislation made every district school board a charter school authorizer, JCPS is the only district to actually be proactive in putting together a process to be in compliance with the law,” said Cassie Blausey, JCPS executive administrator for school choice.
The Jefferson County RFCSA will include the Kentucky Charter School Application as well as additional questions specific to community needs in Jefferson County. In addition, the RFCSA will include more information about the form, format and information required for the completion of the application.
Potential applicants are encouraged to contact Blausey at cassiopia.blausey@jefferson.kyschools.us, or at (502) 485-3138, for more information.
The Jefferson County Public School (JCPS) District is reminding families that the application period for 2019-20 school year enrollment in JCPS ends December 19. All incoming kindergartners, students who are new to JCPS, students who have had a change of address, and any student who wants to be considered for a magnet school or program should register.
Families can register using the JCPS website or by visiting any JCPS school or the JCPS Parent Assistance Center at 4309 Bishop Lane. Parents or guardians should bring a photo ID and any one of the following: utility bill, lease, house contract, paycheck stub or government-issued check.
Parents who have questions regarding school registration may call 485-6250.
Families can learn more about the school choices available in JCPS here.
Mayor Greg Fischer and other local leaders today reminded families of the many free and low-cost activities to keep students active and engaged during winter break.
Camps, movies, parties and sports clinics are among the dozens of activities available during the Jefferson County Public Schools winter break, Dec. 24-Jan. 4, and throughout the month of December.
“Parents who are looking for affordable, fun and festive ways to celebrate the holidays and keep their kids active during their winter break won’t have far to turn once again this year,” Mayor Fischer said. “We want students to enjoy their time off but also keep their minds sharp and bodies healthy.”
The Mayor spoke alongside Metro Councilman Pat Mulvihill and representatives of Louisville Parks and Recreation, JCPS, the Louisville Free Public Library and the Kentucky Science Center gathered at the Cyril Allgeier Community Center in the Camp Taylor neighborhood.
Louisville Parks and Recreation has published a Holiday Event guide that contains more than 30 events taking place during the month of December at community centers, the city’s two historic homes and more. The season is capped with a free winter break sports camp offered by University of Louisville basketball legend Robbie Valentine at Cyril Allgeier on Jan. 3-4. To register for Valentine’s camp, click here.
Also, The Louisville Free Public Library will offer more than 100 free programs for kids, teens, and families while school is out, including storytimes, crafts, film screenings, games, and more. As always, the library also offers a wide selection of books and DVDs to keep kids reading and entertained during the break—all for free. A complete list of library programs is available at http://www.lfpl.org/events.
The Southwest Regional Library will host the Winter Wonderland Train Show — presented by K & I Model Rail Road Club —Dec. 22-Jan 6. The show is free and open during regular library hours, for more information, click here.
In addition, the Kentucky Science Center is offering day camps for children ages Pre-K through grade 5. Children can attend as many days as they like or just do it a day at a time and learn about coding, robotics, engineering and more. For more information, click here.
Neighborhood Place joins with community partners to host the Park DuValle Holiday Festival on Dec. 1 featuring visits with Santa and a holiday concert, and a Kwanzaa Reception on Dec. 28 at Ujima Neighborhood Place. Several other valuable services and classes will take place in December including a home energy-saving workshop, a Women’s Empowerment Information Session, TARC Smart Card registration and low internet sign-ups. To learn more about these offerings, please refer to the list below.
Dec. 1, Third Annual Park DuValle Holiday Festival, 1 – 6 p.m.
Celebrate the holiday season in the Park DuValle area with a celebration of drums and snowball fight at 1 p.m. at Southwick Community Center; visits with Santa at 2 p.m. at the Dr. William Weathers Senior Building; and Holiday Bingo, the Christmas cookie factory and face painting at Ujima Neighborhood Place 3610 Bohne Ave. at 3:30 p.m. A holiday reception begins at 5 p.m. and at 6 p.m. a holiday concert and tree lighting will take place at the Villages of DuValle club house at 1804 Russell Lee Dr.
Dec. 4, Car Seat Safety Check at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 9 – 11 a.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call Norton Children’s Hospital at 629-7358 to make an appointment. Learn how to install your child’s car seat or booster seat. Find out if it’s time for a change. Car seat-fitting by appointment only.
Dec. 5, WeCare Energy Efficiency Overview at Cane Run Neighborhood Place, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Located at 3410 Lees Lane. Call 1-800-356-5467 for more information. Representatives from the WeCare Program at LG&E will be on hand to talk with interested persons about energy efficiency, energy usage and tips to reduce utility bills.WeCare staff can also help determine if households are eligible for a variety of free services including air duct sealing and insulation, attic and wall insulation, programmable thermostats and much more.
Dec. 5, 11, 13 and 20, A Healthy Journey for Two Educational Baby Shower at multiple locations
A Healthy Journey for Two is an educational baby shower open to any expectant mothers. Contact Mendy Mason at 502-341-5400 to register and for more information. The class will include a range of information and resources, as well as free baby items, gift cards, prizes, and snacks. Hosted by Centerstone and KIDSNow. Fathers are welcome but must be registered.
- Dec. 5 at Cane Run Neighborhood Place, 3410 Lees Lane, 1 – 3 p.m.
- Dec. 11 at South Central Neighborhood Place, 4255 Hazelwood Ave., 1- 3 p.m.
- Dec 13, at First Neighborhood Place, 1503 Rangeland Rd. 1 – 3 p.m.
- Dec. 20 at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 3610 Bohne Ave., 1 – 3 p.m.
Dec 6, 10 and 17, Sodexo Hiring Opportunities at three locations
Sodexo, a food-service agency, will provide on-the-spot interviews for positions with Jewish Hospital, Our Lady of Peace and University of Louisville Hospital. Bring your resume and be prepared for an interview. This is one of Sodexo’s busiest hiring seasons. Stop by if you are looking for employment that can lead to a full-time or part-time position.
- Dec 6, First Neighborhood Place, 1503 Rangeland Road (T.J. Middle School in the W.D. Bruce Building – door #24), 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Call 313-4700 for more information.
- Dec 10, South Central Neighborhood Place, 4255 Hazelwood Ave. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Call 313-4089 for more information.
- Dec. 17, Cane Run Neighborhood Place, 3410 Lees Lane, 9am-1pm. Call 313-4089 for more information.
Dec. 6 and 7, TARC Smart Card Registration at Neighborhood Place at two locations
For more information call 585-1234. TARC Mobile Unit will be on site to register individuals for the new smart card. As of Jan. 7, 2019, paper tickets will no longer be used on a TARC bus. Customers can get a jump start in acquiring a smart card that will be required to ride the bus. Customers will be allowed to put a value on new smart cards and seniors will be able to get smart cards with a photo I.D. verifying age.
- Dec. 6 at South Central Neighborhood Place, 4255 Hazelwood Ave., 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
- Dec. 7 at Cane Run Neighborhood Place, 3410 Lees Lane, 11:30 am. – 1:30 p.m.
Mondays through Thursdays, YMCA’s “Caring and Learning with Me” program at Thomas Jefferson Middle School, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Located at 1503 Rangeland Rd., side of Thomas Jefferson Middle School. Call Keyonna Humphrey at 974-8457 for more information and to register. This free program provides a wonderful learning environment for children ages 3-5 years old and their caregivers focusing on play and exploration. The adult caregiver is required to attend with the child/ren. Younger children ages newborn to two years old are also welcome. Sponsored by the YMCA with support from First Neighborhood Place.
Dec. 10, Bridges of Hope Women’s Empowerment Group Information Session, 5 – 6 p.m.
Located at 1411 Algonquin Parkway. Call 634-6050 for more information. This one-hour information session will give prospective participants a synopsis of an upcoming Women’s Empowerment Group and its format. Learn more about this 10-week program designed to develop the skills and confidence necessary to help uplift, empower, build support, and establish healthy relationships. The topics of focus are relationships, parenting, mental and physical health, employment, education, and self-care.
Dec. 10, 12, 17, Passport Health Care Community Engagement at two locations
Call (502) 212-6677 for more information and to RSVP. Passport Members are invited to join with representatives from Passport Health Care for one-on-one consultations to discuss plan benefits and options. This is a great opportunity as Passport aims to raise awareness and educate the community about the Passport Health Plan mission. Passport members will receive a $10 retail gift card for attending.
- Dec 10 and 17 at First Neighborhood Place, 1503 Rangeland Rd (door #16) side of Thomas Jefferson Middle School, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Dec. 12 at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 3610 Bohne Ave., 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Dec. 11, Project Warm Energy Management Workshop at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call 313-4635 to register. Learn how to make your home warmer and more comfortable this winter. Project Warm’s energy management workshop will show you how to hang clear, interior window covers and more. Receive free supplies after attending the workshop. Supplies are available to all registered participants
Dec. 11, Foster Parent Recruitment Meeting at First Neighborhood Place, 6 – 8 p.m.
Located at 1503 Rangeland Rd., side of Thomas Jefferson Middle School. Call 595-5437 (KIDS) for more information. Detailed information will be provided on the requirements and process of how to become a foster or adoptive parent. Information such as an explanation of foster care, special needs adoption, and information on foster parent training classes will be provided. Sponsored by Kentucky Foster Care and the Special Needs Adoption Program.
Dec. 12, 17 and 20, Low Cost Internet Registration at three locations
Learn about and receive help signing up for low-cost internet plans in our community for qualifying households. Sponsored by Louisville Metro’s Digital Inclusion team.
- Dec. 12, Cane Run Neighborhood Place, 2- 4 p.m.
- Dec. 17, South Central Neighborhood Place, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- Dec. 20 at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 3610 Bohne Ave., 3 – 5 p.m. Call 313-4635 for more info.
Dec. 20, Free Blood Pressure Screenings at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 3 – 5 p.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call 313-4635 for more information. Louisville Metro Health and Wellness health educators will provide free blood pressure screenings and health information.
Dec. 28, Kwanzaa Reception at Ujima Neighborhood Place, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Located at 3610 Bohne Ave. Call 313-4635 for more information. In honor of Ujima, the third principle of Kwanzaa meaning collective work and responsibility, community members are invited to gather for networking opportunities and to explore ideas for community collaborations.
