American Federation of Teachers Regional Director is on Guam, Investigates Complaints Against GFT President

WRITTEN BY JEFF MARCHESSEAULT, GUAM NEWS WATCH ANCHOR

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2010

GUAM - If you attend tomorrow's genernal membership meeting of the Guam Federation of Teachers, don't expect any constitutional amendments.

The GFT website says all such amendments have been tabled till the next general membership meeting on November 29th.

That, reportedly on the advice of American Federation of Teachers Regional Director Sol Smith and AFT General Counsel David Strom.

According to Agana Heights Elementary School teacher Carol Somerfleck, Smith is on island to investigate a number of complaints against GFT and its president Matt Rector.

Somerfleck says one of those complaints is by disgruntled DODEA bus drivers, who reported Rector to police today, alleging that Rector threatened their jobs if they didn't join the union. And that most of the dues paying drivers have spent four years with zero representation.

"We should have a choice..Just like everyone else here on Guam. Have a choice to join the union or not. We are the only ones with GFT who are being forced to join the union."

Tomorrow's meeting at the GFT compound by Guam Community College in Mangilao will proceed as planned. Somerfleck encourages all members to attend. The GFT website reminds you to bring your picture I.D. or member card.