(BUFFALO, NEW YORK) - The Buffalo Teachers Federation (BTF) is accusing the Buffalo School District of attempting to prevent Teachers and the public from obtaining information relating to the Health and Safety conditions in the Schools during the Coronavirus Pandemic.

The BTF has sent a BTF School/Site Health and Safety Assessment to each Buffalo District school/site asking Teachers to obtain and provide information relating to the health and safety conditions in each school. 

The survey is to determine the health and safety conditions now and for when students return.

The BTF is presently in court seeking an injunction to prevent Teachers and students from having to report to unsafe buildings until an impartial arbitrator makes a decision on the BTF’s grievance relating to safe and healthful conditions and students’ education.

The Buffalo School District has advised the BTF it will not allow Teachers to question principals about the school safety and health equipment, procedures and supplies.

The BTF Assessment Survey asks questions relating to: The quantity of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - such as masks, face shields, disinfecting sprays/wipes, non-contact thermometers; The proper sanitizing of classrooms, hallways, offices, bathrooms and lunch rooms; Sufficient Custodial Staff; Air purification systems; Operable/non-existent windows; Availability of Nurses and safety of their offices; The movement of individuals in halls, during meetings, etc.; Eating protocols; Isolation rooms; Safety signage; and whether school protocols meet State and Federal guidelines; as well as any other health and safety concerns.

“In the ‘midst’ of a Coronavirus pandemic, the District ‘would rather risk the lives of School Employees, students and the community than provide Teachers with important information relating to the safe and healthful condition in its schools and sites.’  ‘What do they have to hide?,’” BTF President Phil Rumore said.

“They ‘should be, but obviously are not, ashamed of attempting to cover up unsafe and unhealthy conditions in our schools.’  ‘They will have to explain any deaths or serious injury to students, parents, Employees and the community as a result of this heinous cover-up.’  Being in court ‘is no excuse for directing principals and others from providing critical safety and health information during this pandemic,’” Rumore said.