As many of you know, having a mid-winter break is not a given. It exists because of the BEA-BPS Contract (see language below) negotiated by your union. Many school districts have moved away from a full week break, cutting short much-needed time for teachers and students to rest and recuperate through the long, cold winter months. Through bargaining and your support, the BEA has been able to maintain this full week mini vacation and still end the school year about the same time as other districts.

"The parties [the Birmingham Education Association and the Birmingham Board of Education] will negotiate a calendar. The calendar negotiated shall be submitted to the parties for ratification by the BEA membership and approval by the Board of Education.”