The Voice November 2011

The

Voice The Nebraska State Education Association ď ś November 2011

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Opening Bell

Upcoming Assignments Nov. 12 ‘Cowboy-Up’ Bargaining n What: The NSEA Panhandle District’s ‘Cowboy Up’ Bargaining Conference, with updates on the bargaining law, best practices and more. Details are on Page 24. n Where: Gering Civic Center. n Details: Register online now at www.nsea.org.

Nov. 13-26 American Education Week n What: Observe the annual celebration of the teaching profession and public schools. n Details: A different set of public school stakeholders celebrated each day. See Page 23.

Nov. 19 SEAN’s Outreach to Teach n What: Student Education Association of Nebraska hosts fix-up at Howard Elementary in Grand Island. n Details: See Page 23.

June 19-21 NSEA Leadership Institute n What: Dates for the 25th installment of this event have just been announced! n Details: Call your UniServ director at 1-800-742-0047.

On the Cover: the

Homestead Act to Visit Southeast Nebraska

Funding Available for Student Transport

Abe Lincoln is coming to Nebraska!

OK, it won’t be Abe himself. But the Homestead Act, the historic Lincolnsigned document that spurred westward expansion, will be at Homestead National Monument at Beatrice next spring. Educators who attend a January workshop can apply for funds to transport students to see the Act. The deadline to apply to attend the workshops is Nov. 18.

The Homestead Act, normally kept at the National Archives, will come to the Monument as part of the Act’s 150th anniversary. It will be at the Monument from April 25 through May 28, 2012.

Earlier, the Monument will be the site of two ‘Learn & Earn’ workshops for teachers, one on Thursday, Jan. 26,

and another on Friday, Jan. 27. The workshops will feature David Rosenbaum, a former Nebraska teacher, now an education specialist with the National Archives. Also set: Katherine Walters, co-director for the Digital Research in the Humanities, and professor and chair of the Digital Initiatives & Special Collections at the University of Nebraska. An optional Google Applications session will be held Jan. 25, from 6-9 p.m.

Teachers who attend one of the ‘Learn & Earn’ workshops may apply for transportation reimbursement for students to visit the Monument when the Homestead Act is on display.

For more, call Tina Miller, Homestead National Monument education coordinator, at 1-402-223-3514 or email: Tina_Miller@nps.gov More details and an application form are under the ‘For Teachers’ link at: http://www.nps.gov/home

Budget Cuts Affect The Voice

VOICE Nebraska State Education Association 605 S. 14th Street Lincoln, NE 68508-2742 · www.nsea.org (402) 475-7611 · (800) 742-0047

Volume 65, No. 3 ISSN Number: 1085-0783 USPS Number: 000-369

Great Public Schools For Every Child

Executive Director Assoc. Executive Director Director of Public Affairs Assistant Comm. Director

Craig R. Christiansen Neal Clayburn Karen Kilgarin Al Koontz

NSEA Board of Directors President Nancy Fulton, Wilber-Clatonia Leann Widhalm, Norfolk Vice President NEA Director John Heineman, Lincoln NEA Director Jenni Absalon, Lincoln

Official publication of the Nebraska State Education Association, Suite 200, 605 South 14th Street, Lincoln, NE 68508-2742. Periodical postage paid at Lincoln, NE, and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: send address changes to The Voice, NSEA, 605 S. 14th Street, Lincoln,

Page 6.

NE 68508-2742.

Published 10 times yearly according to this schedule: September, October, November, December, January, February, March, April, May and August.

Payment of annual NSEA membership dues entitles Nebraska educators to receive The Voice. Total cost of producing 10 monthly issues of The Voice each year is about $4.84 per member.

Advertising rates of The Voice are available from the assistant communications director. All advertisements and advertisers are screened prior to publication. Appearance of an advertisement in The Voice does not necessarily imply NSEA endorsement of either the product being advertised or the views being expressed.

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Unless we aspire to be the next Wisconsin,

Changes are coming to The Voice. You may have noticed the first wave of change with this edition you hold in your hands. It is printed on a lower-grade of paper.

Other changes are coming, as well. This will be the last print edition you’ll receive until early February. The December, January and March issues will be delivered to your computer via an e-mail link. Print editions are scheduled for remaining editions.

In each case, publication will occur on or about the first of the month. Each edition will also be available on the NSEA website — www.nsea.org — as is current practice.

The change is a result of budget cuts enacted by the NSEA Board of Directors in October. The goal is to continue to meet the needs of members while reducing expenditures in a strategic manner.

From January through May and beyond, turmoil in Wisconsin made national news. The end result was a loss of bargaining rights for Wisconsin teachers. Angie Raebel was there. For her story, turn to

NSEA President Nancy Fulton

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we must stand strong and stand together.

”

ening Bell

From the President

o Visit aska

Friday, Jan. 27. The feature David RosenNebraska teacher, now pecialist with the NaAlso set: Katherine ctor for the Digital Remanities, and professor e Digital Initiatives & tions at the University An optional Google Apsion will be held Jan. .m. ho attend one of the workshops may apply on reimbursement for the Monument when Act is on display. ll Tina Miller, HomeMonument education co02-223-3514 or email: iller@nps.gov and an application form or Teachers’ link at: w.nps.gov/home

e Voice

he first wave of change er-grade of paper. nt edition you’ll receive es will be delivered to for remaining editions. he month. Each edition — as is current practice.

EA Board of Directors embers while reducing

Page 6.

Standing Strong Standing strong, standing tall.

Standing up for what is right and true.

NEA is standing up for me and you!

Those words are from the lyrics of Standing Strong, a song that debuted at this past summer’s NEA Representative Assembly in Chicago. As educators and unions continue to face unprecedented attacks, those lines have become more than just words strung together; they represent one of the last hopes for public schools and their employees.

Why? Because privatization interests, political ideologues and anti-tax sentiments have coNSEA President alesced into a movement to defund our nation’s public schools, break unions and push charter and Nancy Fulton other unregulated school schemes. The lone stumbling block to those goals is the NEA. So it’s serious business each summer when approximately 100 elected Nebraska delegates join more than 9,000 delegates from other state affiliUnless we ates across the nation at the NEA Representative Assembly. The RA is the largest democratic deaspire to be liberative assembly in the world. Any previous the next delegate will tell you that it is an amazing event.

Debate is dynamic. Delegates are engaged Wisconsin, and committed. The days are long – committee we must meetings begin at 6 a.m. in order to bring recommendations to Nebraska caucuses that convene at stand strong 7 a.m. Delegates this year voted on 97 proposed and stand New Business Items and other assorted Bylaws and Resolutions. They also adopted the Associatogether. tion’s strategic plan and elected national officers.

One of the key moments was adoption of a policy statement on teacher evaluation and accountability. Delegates also approved a $10 increase in the Ballot Measure/Legislative Crisis Fund that will be used to fight off onerous ballot measures, such as Initiative 423 that we defeated here in Nebraska just a few years ago.

“

”

We’re working for the future, proudly working day and night, We’re standing strong for our Union, and standing up for our rights.

arly according to this schedule: vember, December, January, Feband August.

The importance of ‘standing strong’ is illustrated in the story about Papillion-LaVista teacher

A membership dues entitles Neeive The Voice. Total cost of proes of The Voice each year is about

Angie Raebel (Page 6). A year ago, Angie was teaching in Wisconsin, with a salary, benefits and retirement that were negotiated with her local school board.

But because anti-public education forces are now in charge in that state, Wisconsin teachers have seen their bargaining rights get stripped away. They no longer have input about their working conditions – or students’ learning conditions.

They no longer have any real say in ensuring fair compensation for their work. Unless we aspire to be the next Wisconsin, we must stand strong and stand together.

Standing strong means we stand together, and never give up the fight.

We’re staying true to our values that we cherished for so long, Proudly fighting for our public schools that make our country strong.

American Education Week As World War I came to a close, delegates to the NEA-Representative Assembly in Des Moines adopted a Resolution in support of a national effort to raise the public’s awareness for the importance of education.

That resolution gave birth to American Education Week (AEW), which is designed to inform the public of the accomplishments and needs of our nation’s public schools, and to secure the cooperation and support of the public in meeting those needs. This year, AEW is Nov. 13-19.

Just as the American Legion co-sponsored the first AEW 90 years ago, when 25 percent of the country’s WWI draftees were illiterate, the American Legion has joined with us this year. Local Legion posts are encouraged to become involved in AEW activities and to continue their commitment to quality education.

It’s time to stand strong, proud and tall for our students, our schools, and for our country. American Education Week offers a powerful message.

So, too, does Standing Strong. Listen to the song, and share it with colleagues. Check it out at this website: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zm79otNOOgI

NSEA is on Facebook!

Find us, “like” us, follow us and connect with colleagues.

he Voice are available from the ons director. All advertisements reened prior to publication. Apement in The Voice does not necdorsement of either the product views being expressed.

Facebook Discussion:

How have deep state aid cuts affected your school building or school district?

Go online to see what others have to say!

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Barga

Advocacy Con

There’s nothing like ters ahead to get someo The exploration of t that has become colle in Nebraska may expla tendance of more than from more than 125 loc NSEA’s 2011 Advocac Grand Island on Oct. 22 The uncharted wate the result of the pass LB397 by the Nebrask islature in May. As President Nancy Fulto members, “there are a questions about the ne gaining law, and we’ve lot of people on hand w answer those questions Most important, she able to go to the table salaries.” At times durin lative session, that abili learn what that means, Much of value was s ence. Here are some of

State Sen. Mike Gloor, “This room is an e strengths – you get inv e-mails, you make pho talk with us, and I kno across the state.

“You have to advoca you’re going to advoca

Bill Raabe, NEA Direc Bargaining and Memb “Nobody knows m is going on in educatio And if we throw up ou ‘there is nothing we can saults on public educat anyone join? There is advocating is illegal. T where organizing is ille place where it is illega community.”

Ron Goldenstein, NSE Bargaining Specialist: “In the past, scho put locals in the positi make a decision of w go to the CIR. This la that: mediation is ma both sides agree to sk Page 4 n The NSEA Voice n November 2011

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Bargaining in Uncharted Waters Advocacy Conference Maps LB397 Changes go directly to the CIR.” There’s nothing like uncharted waters ahead to get someone’s attention.

Craig R. Christiansen, The exploration of the new territory NSEA Executive Director: that has become collective bargaining A bargaining schedule means in Nebraska may explain, then, the at275 locals will go through the tendance of more than 270 negotiators same process at the same time, from more than 125 local associations at stressing resources.

NSEA’s 2011 Advocacy Conference in “But it also ofGrand Island on Oct. 22. fers an opportunity, “You have The uncharted waters are among others, to the result of the passage of to advocate strategize and to barLB397 by the Nebraska Legfor yourself if islature in May. As NSEA you’re going to gain before state and local budgets are set, President Nancy Fulton told advocate for and not to ‘settle’ for members, “there are a lot of children.” what is left over.” questions about the new barFocused: Listening intently during the Oct. 22 gaining law, and we’ve got a Sen. Mike Gloor, NSEA Advocacy Conference are, from left, Kyle Grand Island State Sen. Steve lot of people on hand who can Knaub, Loup City; and Matt Erb, Lincoln.

Lathrop, Omaha: answer those questions.”

“The more you stick togethMost important, she said: “We’re still you are not aware, you’ll get rolled.” er, the more power you have and the able to go to the table and bargain for more you’ll be able to stop the erosion salaries.” At times during the past legisLarry Scherer, NSEA director of collective bargaining.” lative session, that ability was at risk (to of Collective Bargaining & Research: A lesson from LB397: ‘There are learn what that means, turn to Page 6).

“I was impressed by the dedicathose who want to shrink government – Much of value was said at the confertion of the teachers who came out on a and that (government) is you. You will ence. Here are some of the highlights: weekend to learn their craft, and gained need to be involved and know who is the skills needed to navigate these unrunning and know how they stand. If State Sen. Mike Gloor, Grand Island: chartered waters. Awesome.”

“This room is an example of your strengths – you get involved. You send e-mails, you make phone calls and you talk with us, and I know that happens across the state.

“You have to advocate for yourself if you’re going to advocate for children.”

Bill Raabe, NEA Director of Collective Bargaining and Member Advocacy: “Nobody knows more about what is going on in education than teachers.

And if we throw up our hands and say ‘there is nothing we can do about the assaults on public education,’ why would anyone join? There is no place where advocating is illegal. There is no place where organizing is illegal. There is no place where it is illegal to engage the community.”

Ron Goldenstein, NSEA Collective Bargaining Specialist: “In the past, school boards have put locals in the position of having to make a decision of whether or not to go to the CIR. This law has changed that: mediation is mandatory, unless both sides agree to skip that step and November 2011 n The NSEA Voice n Page 5

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ers: Four rds home Assembly.

SP of the Overton; ce Award ck, South kie of the e, Lincoln. mmunity er Laurel Oakdale.

ts

Kids

ortfall of $980 million. d far below the estimated

tate aid need for 2012-13.

ucation. Nebraska already

well-educated workforce on, PK-16. To do so, go to

Epicenter: Former Wisconsin teacher Angie Raebel notes the location of Madison, the state capitol, and focus of much of last spring’s political debate.

The Wisconsin Effect Last Spring, Wisconsin Teachers Lost Bargaining Rights and Took Pay Cuts of Up to $10,000. Papillion-LaVista Teacher Angie Raebel was There. circumstances in each school district. In families in which both In early February, Angie Raebel and her colleagues across spouses are teachers, the loss is doubled.

Wisconsin were working under contracts that provided reasonWith the strict limits on salary increases, and the correspondable benefits and slightly-below-national-average wages. ing loss of bargaining power, the chance of How quickly life can change. ever regaining those salary dollars is slim.

By late spring, a devastating new state “...the most important step law dictated that Wisconsin teachers would for teachers is to make sure Seismic Shift no longer be allowed to bargain benefits or they know who they are electing, The changes to state law came as the reworking conditions. Base wages could still sult of what Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker be negotiated – as long as they provided no and what they stand for.”

— Angie Raebel, called his “budget-repair” bill. The bill more than a cost-of-living increase.

Former Wisconsin Teacher spurred heated debate, marches, recall elecBecause the new law would allow a tions and rallies. More than one rally drew school board to unilaterally implement its 100,000 protesters to the steps of the state capitol. last offer, “it really isn’t bargaining at all,” said Raebel.

As this new school year enters its third month, Wisconsin Another damaging result: the new legislation required teachers and administrators are still sorting through the upheavWisconsin teachers to pay a much larger share of their health al caused by the bill. For instance, school boards can now make care and retirement benefits. As a result, unofficial estimates unilateral decisions regarding selection of health care plans and by the Wisconsin Education Association Council indicate that coverage. Working conditions are no longer open to bargainthe average Wisconsin teacher will take home from $4,000 to ing. Instead, long-negotiated contracts with teachers have been $10,000 less this year than last, depending on the individual Page 6 n The NSEA Voice n November 2011

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replaced by school d “handbooks.” In distric ative boards and admin tors have input into the such handbooks. In oth is not the case.

Raebel, who today teaches at Papillion-LaVista South High School, said the seismic shift that erased 50 years of progress for Wisconsin’s union employees could happen anywhere – if union members are not vigila in protecting bargaining earned rights, Raebel candidates who favor p “I think the most im teachers is to make sur who they are electing stand for,” she said.

A Surpri Raebel moved to the summer, after her husb the Cooper Nuclear Po Calhoun. But earlier th a secondary special edu River Falls, WI, about Minneapolis-St. Paul.

After Gov. Walker to Raebel said rumors swi “We started hearing ings, where it was s wanted to take away b and do away with union “It happened prett said. “Unless you follow I don’t, you didn’t rea going on. It took us by Walker’s bill was int 11, and it was divisi teachers who taught ne other were on opposite bate, some arguing ag self-interest. Families whether to support edu Misinformation was wi “So many people t were the source of th problems,” said Raebe that teachers were g much, or getting ‘free’ when, in fact, we had lesser salaries in exch health insurance.”

Raebel rallied and worked a phone bank and patrons to contact t and express opposition

Three NSEA Staffers Aid in Wisconsin

Epicenter: Former Wisconsin teacher Angie Raebel notes the location of Madison, the state capitol, and focus of much of last spring’s political debate.

sin t

ook Pay Cuts There.

n families in which both d. ses, and the correspondng power, the chance of salary dollars is slim.

mic Shift tate law came as the rensin Gov. Scott Walker -repair” bill. The bill te, marches, recall elecore than one rally drew ate capitol. hird month, Wisconsin ng through the upheavol boards can now make of health care plans and onger open to bargainwith teachers have been

Despite hundreds of thousands of letreplaced by school district employee ters and calls in opposition, and legions “handbooks.” In districts with collaborof protestors inside and on the capitol ative boards and administrators, educasteps, the bill had passed on a party line tors have input into the development of vote and was signed into law. such handbooks. In other districts, that Meanwhile, her is not the case.

Raebel, who to“It feels good to be in a state local association In April and May, when was working on a day teaches at Papil- where we have the ability to the fallout from passage contract extension lion-LaVista South bargain for our rights. I don’t of Wisconsin Gov. Scott for the 2011-12 High School, said think people realized what a Walker’s “budget-repair” school year. The the seismic shift that good thing we had, until it was bill was under way, NSEA reason: the proerased 50 years of lost. I certainly didn’t.” sent three UniServ direcposed bill would not progress for Wiscontors to Wisconsin.

— Angie Raebel, affect existing consin’s union employMike Wiesen, Rich WerFormer Wisconsin Teacher tracts; an extension ees could happen gin and Marlene Wehrbein would stave off the Wergin anywhere – if union each spent two weeks onerous provisions of the budget bill for members are not vigilant. The first step working with Wisconsin members as part of an another year, although many renewed in protecting bargaining and other hardNEA “shared staffing” contracts included significant concesearned rights, Raebel said, is to elect program. NSEA receives sions. So during the debate, when 14 candidates who favor public education. significant funding for the Democratic state senators left the state “I think the most important step for UniServ program from for several weeks in an effort to delay teachers is to make sure that they know NEA. As a result, UniServ or derail the bill, the legislative process who they are electing, and what they directors are subject to was slowed and River Falls educators stand for,” she said. being called upon for two had extra time to finalize the extension. weeks of “shared staffing” “We had a supportive superintendent Werhbein in another state when the A Surprise and board,” she said. “But other districts Raebel moved to the Omaha area this need arises. were facing across-the-board layoffs.” summer, after her husband took a job at Their mission had two Those districts that failed to agree to the Cooper Nuclear Power Plant at Ft. goals. First, they were to a contract extension are now working Calhoun. But earlier this year, she was help members of the Wisunder the board-authored and approved a secondary special education teacher at consin Education Assoemployee handbooks.

River Falls, WI, about 50 miles east of ciation Council – NSEA’s “In such cases, teachers will have Wisconsin counterpart Minneapolis-St. Paul.

– get members to conduct to hope the administration and board After Gov. Walker took office Jan. 3, newly-required bargainare fair, as opposed to stripping out the Wiesen Raebel said rumors swirled. ing certification elections previously negotiated terms of employ“We started hearing more at meetin each and every school ment from the contract,” she said. ings, where it was said that Walker district.

Second, it gave the UniServ Raebel said the bill has already taken wanted to take away bargaining rights directors a look at, and experience a toll, but Wisconsin educators will only and do away with unions,” she said. with, organizing methods used in realize the full harm as they deal with “It happened pretty quickly,” she another state. contract and employment issues. said. “Unless you follow politics, which “It was a win-win,” said AsI don’t, you didn’t really know it was sociate Executive Director Neal No Real Savings going on. It took us by surprise.”

Clayburn. “Our folks gained valuAt a congressional hearing in April, Walker’s bill was introduced on Feb. able experience, and Wisconsin got Walker was asked how much the state 11, and it was divisive. Raebel said help at a time of crisis.” expected to save by stripping collective teachers who taught next door to each bargaining rights from union workers. other were on opposite sides of the de“It doesn’t save any,” said Walker. bate, some arguing against their own She said early reports point toward Meanwhile, Walker’s budget for this self-interest. Families were split over a collaborative effort between teachers fiscal year included $1.6 billion in cuts whether to support educators or Walker. and administration. and aid reduction. At the same time, Misinformation was widespread.

“The union has no legal power to inWalker approved legislation that gave “So many people thought teachers fluence the handbook, so our only hope away more than $117 million in future were the source of the state’s budget is that the administration will be fair, tax revenues through tax breaks to corproblems,” said Raebel. “They thought and will continue to work to be a quality porations and other special interests. that teachers were getting paid too school district – which it is at the moAs the school year progresses and much, or getting ‘free’ health insurance, ment,” she said. the River Falls contract extension apwhen, in fact, we had often bargained In the meantime, Raebel is pleased to proaches expiration, Raebel said her lesser salaries in exchange for better be in Nebraska. former colleagues will undoubtedly feel health insurance.”

“It feels good to be in a state where renewed stress.

Raebel rallied and marched, and we have the ability to bargain for our “What will working conditions be worked a phone bank urging members rights,” she said. “I don’t think people like? What will happen with pay? With and patrons to contact their state senator realized what a good thing we had, until retirement? With insurance?” and express opposition to the bill. it was lost. I certainly didn’t.”

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Com

New NEA B

Nebraska educators faces representing th tional Education Asso Directors. Although J and Jenni Absalon are NEA board, don’t exp quietly and watch.

Heineman and Abs coln teachers, were e peers at NSEA’s 150t sembly in April. The table different styles, riences and varied c if anything, complem quite nicely.

They have one com tor, however: neither i up on behalf of chil and public schools.

“I think I bring a lo strong communicatio Heineman. “I’m very that all voices in the r heard; I’ll be encoura voices to make sure th Absalon said she of perience in her career “I have a pretty clea of every level of educ “I bring a well-round what is going on in ed experienced – and p – voice to advocate fo tion.”

Heineman taught f Culler Middle School

About Ab

Favorite Music: Joel, classic rock and Favorite Movie: Roof, Amistad and Mr Washington.

Favorite Leisu Swimming, outdoor ing, Facebook, hanging and friends.

Favorite Area t special education te loved teaching readin hension and helping reading are importan Page 8 n The NSEA Voice n November 2011

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Common Denominator New NEA Board Reps Have Different Styles, Same Passion for Kids

Nebraska educators have two new faces representing them on the National Education Association Board of Directors. Although John Heineman and Jenni Absalon are rookies on the NEA board, don’t expect them to sit quietly and watch.

Heineman and Absalon, both Lincoln teachers, were elected by their peers at NSEA’s 150th Delegate Assembly in April. They bring to the table different styles, different experiences and varied credentials that, if anything, complement each other quite nicely.

They have one common denominator, however: neither is afraid to speak up on behalf of children, educators and public schools.

“I think I bring a lot of enthusiasm, strong communication skills,” said Heineman. “I’m very much a believer that all voices in the room need to be heard; I’ll be encouraging the ‘quiet’ voices to make sure they are heard.”

Absalon said she offers a varied experience in her career and life.

“I have a pretty clear understanding of every level of education,” she said.

“I bring a well-rounded approach to what is going on in education, and an experienced – and pretty outspoken – voice to advocate for public education.”

Heineman taught for two years at Culler Middle School in Lincoln, and

Trio of Leaders: Nebraska NEA Directors Jenni Absalon, left and John Heineman, center, pause for a snapshot with NEA Executive Committee Princess Moss, Virgnia, during a vist by Moss to Lincoln in October. Moss toured three Lincoln schools and helped Lincoln educators celebrate their successes at an event organized by the Lincoln Education Association.

for the past 27 years at Lincoln High School, where he is now the International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement coordinator. He was Nebraska’s Teacher of the Year in 2000.

Absalon is a special education teacher with 24 years of experience, five in Texas and 19 in Lincoln. She is

About Absalon

Favorite Music: Elton John, Billy Joel, classic rock and country.

Favorite Movie: Fiddler on the Roof, Amistad and Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.

Favorite Leisure Activity: Swimming, outdoor activities, reading, Facebook, hanging out with family and friends.

Absalon Favorite Area to Teach: As a special education teacher, I always loved teaching reading the most. Working on comprehension and helping children understand what they are reading are important skills they need to succeed.

the full-time release president for the Lincoln Education Association.

Both agree that Nebraska must be represented well at the NEA level.

“We have to bring Nebraska concerns to the national level and make sure our voices are heard,” said Heineman. “We also need to know what is

Heineman’s Hobbies

Favorite Food: Anything Italian.

Favorite Book: What I’m currently reading.

Favorite Leisure Activity: Huskers, singing, reading, planning my next travel adventure.

Favorite Time of the School Day: Whenever I’m in front of a classHeineman room.

Favorite Class in High School: Speech.

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happening at the national level, we need to know what the next issue will be, what the next attack aimed at public schools will be.”

Absalon said smaller states like Nebraska are an example of stability and quality to other states in the NEA family.

“We’re very collaborative in Nebraska, which I think is important to show other states that may be more adversarial, internally, in their approach to things,” she said. “Nebraska brings a very good, steady base.”

Absalon said a faction of the NEA board is quite progressive, though much of the leadership core is moderate, as well.

“When you’re a leader in social justice issues, that tends to be more of that left side, but I think the board also has a moderate side, as well,” she said. “And as far as the fiscal side, I think NEA is a conservative, fiscally responsible organization, especially when it comes to member dollars.”

Heineman said NEA is “the proeducation” voice in this country.

“Some people will see that as leaning left, but education has to be the common denominator and the thing that brings us all together,” he said.

Heineman will serve a three-year term on the NEA Board of Directors.

He replaces Omaha teacher Mark Shively, who served two terms on the NEA Board of Directors.

Absalon was elected to fill the final two years of former board member Leann Widhalm, Norfolk, who was elected NSEA vice president.

Board OKs Matching Grants for Local Election Efforts Six Requests Support Bond Issue Campaigns The NSEA Board of Directors has approved matching funds requests from five local associations for monies to be used to promote school bond elections.

Specifically, the board approved grants of: n $500 to the Adams Central Education Association for a $13.9 million bond issue to build a new, single-site elementary school. n $500 to the Elkhorn Education Association for a $49 million school bond election to construct a new middle school, a new elementary school and provide various upgrades to other district properties. n $500 to the York Education Association for a $12.5 million school bond to remodel York High School. n $2,500 to the Millard Education Association for a $140 million school bond issue in that district. n $3,500 to the Weeping Water Education Association for a $10.28 million school bond issue in that school district. n $2,000 to the Columbus Education Association for a $28.5 million school bond issue in that district.

Any local association in support of a local bond issue, levy override, school board candidate or other education-related election, can request a matching funds grant in support of that election. For more details on the process, contact NSEA UniServ Director Brian Mikkelsen at: brian.mikkelsen@nsea.org

Well-Tr a Must

It has proven out t a strong local association adds to the strength of the state association, and a strong state association, in turn, benefits the local association.

But what traits make for a strong local association? This series will review the traits of what the NSEA and the NEA call a “Full Capacity Local Association.”

The series will allow future leaders and me sure the current stren opportunities for gain ity, with the local asso This month’s item local membership serv

With 36 years of Goldenstein is NSEA ured UniServ director to work with locals a on collective bargain has helped hundreds o tions, large and small negotiations issues.

Goldenstein said t association leaders a best know the local vironment and needs aspects to good barg that they may not kno have fallen by the wa “Bargaining teams trained and aware of tion trends that affect t he said. “A well-info recognized bargainin gotiate and craft a co give members a voice district’s decision-ma ing with working con He said that barga hibited by a full cap clude: n The local has ex ing status with the boa n Among the item gains are working con

Use Cell Phones to Aid Learning NEA Can Tell You How Want to learn how to incorporate cell phone technology in your class? Five NEA members have ideas for you.

The NEA Foundation created its Challenge to Innovate (C2i) to discover innovative approaches in teaching, and to enable educators to share and build on these ideas to improve student learning.

Find out how C2i Mobile Project national awardees are using mobile phone technology to change the way their students learn. Look for the story entitled When Texting in Class is a Good Thing at the NEA Foundation website at: http://www.neafoundation.org/ Page 10 n The NSEA Voice n November 2011

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Reach

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Grants Efforts

Reaching Full Capacity Well-Trained, Informed Bargainers a Must for Successful Negotiations

e Campaigns

nds requests from five bond elections. a $13.9 million bond

9 million school bond ry school and provide

million school bond to

0 million school bond for a $10.28 million $28.5 million school

levy override, school uest a matching funds rocess, contact NSEA

It has proven out time and again: a strong local association adds to the strength of the state association, and a strong state association, in turn, benefits the local association.

But what traits make for a strong local association? This series will review the traits of what the NSEA and the NEA Goldenstein call a “Full Capacity Local Association.”

The series will allow current leaders, future leaders and members to measure the current strengths, as well as opportunities for gaining full capacity, with the local association.

This month’s item looks at a core local membership service: bargaining.

With 36 years of service, Ron Goldenstein is NSEA’s longest tenured UniServ director. He is assigned to work with locals across the state on collective bargaining issues, and has helped hundreds of local associations, large and small, work through negotiations issues.

Goldenstein said that while local association leaders and negotiators best know the local bargaining environment and needs, there may be aspects to good bargaining practice that they may not know about, or that have fallen by the wayside.

“Bargaining teams should be welltrained and aware of working condition trends that affect their members,” he said. “A well-informed, formally recognized bargaining unit will negotiate and craft a contract that will give members a voice in their school district’s decision-making when dealing with working conditions.”

He said that bargaining traits exhibited by a full capacity local include: n The local has exclusive bargaining status with the board of education. n Among the items the local bargains are working conditions.

n The local bargains a master agreement. n The local trains its local association bargaining team, and encourages team members to attend NSEA bargaining conference sessions. n The local analyzes and audits the district’s budget on an annual basis. n The local conducts an annual bargaining survey of members. n The local establishes short- and long-term bargaining goals. n The local has a comprehensive contract maintenance program. n The local uses a ‘Traditional’ or ‘Interest-Based’ negotiations process.

Does your local meet these recommendations? NSEA has available for use by local associations a complete assessment survey that will help determine whether a local meets these and other ‘full capacity local’ benchmarks.

Have questions? Contact your NSEA UniServ director at 1-800742-0047.

ESPs: How would you like to win… …an all-expense paid trip to the NEA Education Support Professional Conference? Here’s your chance! Enter the NEA/ESP Conference Scholarship Contest and the NEA ESP Quality office will award 10 scholarships to the top NEA ESP recruiters in 2011.

Membership is the heart and soul of NEA. The 10 ESP members who recruit the most new members between May 1, 2011, and Dec. 1, 2011, and submit a signed verification form, will win an all-expense paid scholarship to the 2012 NEA ESP Conference.

Nominees must complete the verification form and have it signed by the state executive director and the State president.

Verification forms must be received by Dec. 16, 2011. Find more details at: http://www.nea.org/home/1604. htm

November 2011 n The NSEA Voice n Page 11

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y fees for that mantor would have ‘X’ ars.

If your pension is nd the benefits you the best person to y; you know the iscan affect children. ate senator through -471-2311 and urge lan. Find your senaE-mail your senator’

Is Your Pension Safe?

Member Advocacy Needed to Keep Plan Strong

By Roger Rea NSEA-Retired President Political recklessness is becoming an epidemic. The craziness is akin to sharks chasing blood bait in shallow waters. As the feeding frenzy escalates, the frequent victims are public employees and their modest benefits. It is all done with the political bravado of “solving the state’s fiscal mess.”

In reality, any such ‘solution’ comes at the expense of public employees and other taxpaying citizens. You see, the proposed changes often do not save money – they cost money! Such political grandstanding in Wisconsin made the news last spring. The most recent attacks have taken place just south of our border in Kansas.

Kansas has not fully funded its modest public employee retirement plan (known Rea as KPERS), which includes Kansas educators, for as long as I can remember. Irresponsible, indeed, and yet, a few lawmakers sought to address the resulting underfunding of the retirement plan with more irresponsibility – they pushed for changes that would have devastating effects on plan members.

Fortunately, the Kansas Legislature rejected that knee-jerk reaction and voted instead to create a commission to study possible changes to the plan to shore up its solvency. The commission is evaluating the effect of eliminating or modifying the cost-of-living adjustment; reducing the formula multiplier, which helps determine post-retirement income; increasing plan members’ contribution rate; or a combination of all three options. These are not great options but are much better than the capricious proposals some have pushed.

Could it Happen Here?

Is Nebraska immune to such radical proposals? Consider this: Last year state senators introduced several bills that would change the benefit provisions for new members of the school and state patrol retirement systems. The bills were referred to committee for further study, with the actuary for the retirement systems asked to prepare a projection model to study the fiscal impact of the proposed benefit changes on the long-term fund-

ing of the retirement plans. The projection model was unveiled at the July 2011 meeting of the Nebraska Public Employee Retirement Board (NPERS). I attended that meeting to learn what the long-term funding projections might reveal.

The projection results were very interesting. Several scenarios were developed – each would retain all benefits that current employees have earned, but would change the way future benefits would accrue for new hires. The changes included reducing the formula multiplier below 2 percent of final average salary; increasing the number of years used in calculating the final average salary; raising the age for early retirement; increasing the vesting period beyond five years; changing contribution rates for employees and school districts; and changing the post-retirement cost-of-living adjustment.

The most radical scenario was to eliminate the defined benefit plan for school employees and state patrol members, and enroll all new school and patrol hires in cash balance plans.

The goal of all of these studies was to see how each scenario would affect the need for future state contributions to maintain the actuarial soundness of the retirement plans.

The Bottom Line “Normal cost” is an actuarial term meaning the long term cost (as a percent of payroll) of providing the promised benefits of a retirement plan.

The normal cost of our existing retirement plan is about 11.1 percent of pay. That means that if a total of 11.1 percent of pay (about 6 percent from both employee and employer) is regularly contributed for all employees, and if the money is invested to earn an average of 8 percent per year, then there will be enough money to pay for all benefits that are currently promised to school employees at the time they retire.

If a second tier of benefits (with reduced benefits compared to the current plan) were implemented for all new hires, the projection shows that the normal cost for the lower-benefit tier would increase to about 12.6 percent of pay. Why? The increased “normal cost” results because new education employees are older (on average) when they begin their careers than was the case 40 years ago. An older “entry age” means that there is less time for investments to “grow” by the time the employee retires, so contributions need to be higher. At the same time, the cost for the older tier of benefits does not disap-

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pear. In fact, the projec costs of providing a ne to increase for the next may not be intuitive, bu

A Simple R No decision will be modifications in the ret Legislature convenes i NSEA-Retired will ca posals, and will keep m involved in the discussi The truth is that the viding our current ret percent of pay) is more rent contribution rates tem (a total of about 17 contributions in excess now being used to pay vestments caused by th

Next is No

NSEA to S Defined Be is the Be

In late September, Legislature’s Retireme hearing on teacher retir testified in support of aged defined benefit r The message was clear isn’t broken.

The hearing was the the Retirement Commi opening of the Legislat sion. A second is Tuesd the State Capitol.

As billed, the Sept was to “examine pu contracts entered into p lective bargaining and ficials.” Some state po tors are investigating w state’s defined benefit a 401k-like defined con testified against such a “clearly shown that d ment plans are an effici way to provide an ade efit for public employe NSEA-Retired presiden Executive Committee o cil on School Retireme “Plan members, as w lower contribution rate

fe?

n Strong

on model was unveiled a Public Employee Reat meeting to learn what t reveal. resting. Several scenarall benefits that current nge the way future benhanges included reducent of final average salnumber of years used in average salary; raising irement; increasing the nd five years; changing r employees and school ing the post-retirement ment. scenario was to elimiefit plan for school ematrol members, and enand patrol hires in cash

these studies was to see would affect the need for tions to maintain the acthe retirement plans.

e meaning the long term ng the promised benefits

ement plan is about 11.1 l of 11.1 percent of pay nd employer) is regularhe money is invested to en there will be enough currently promised to e. uced benefits compared d for all new hires, the t for the lower-benefit cent of pay. Why? The se new education emhey begin their careers lder “entry age” means to “grow” by the time eed to be higher. At the benefits does not disap-

pear. In fact, the projections showed that the costs of providing a new tier would continue to increase for the next 30 years! That result may not be intuitive, but those are the facts.

A Simple Reminder No decision will be reached on potential modifications in the retirement plan until the Legislature convenes in January. NSEA and NSEA-Retired will carefully monitor proposals, and will keep members informed and involved in the discussion.

The truth is that the long-term cost of providing our current retirement benefit (11.1 percent of pay) is more than met by the current contribution rates to the retirement system (a total of about 17 percent of pay). The contributions in excess of the normal cost are now being used to pay for the decline in investments caused by the poor market returns

of the past few years.

The need for additional state contributions right now is not to pay for benefits – it is to pay for the poor investment performance over the past few years. It is important to take the long view when looking at retirement plans – and that long term view for the state’s defined benefit plans reveals an average return on investment of more than 9 percent since 1992.

Lawmakers need to be reminded of these simple facts.

Roger Rea was Nebraska’s 1989 Teacher of the Year, and is president of the NSEA-Retired. He served five years on the Nebraska Public Employees Retirement Board, is a trustee for the Omaha School Employees’ Retirement System, and is on the Executive Committee of the National Council on Teacher Retirement.

Next Pension Hearing is Nov. 22 in Lincoln NSEA to Senators: Defined Benefit Plan is the Best Value In late September, when the Nebraska Legislature’s Retirement Committee held a hearing on teacher retirement benefits, NSEA testified in support of the state-managed defined benefit retirement plan.

The message was clear: don’t fix what isn’t broken.

The hearing was the first of two for the Retirement Committee prior to the opening of the Legislature’s 2012 session. A second is Tuesday, Nov. 22, at the State Capitol.

As billed, the September hearing was to “examine public employee contracts entered into pursuant to collective bargaining and benefits for public officials.” Some state policymakers and senators are investigating whether to change the state’s defined benefit plan for teachers into a 401k-like defined contribution plan. NSEA testified against such a change. Research has “clearly shown that defined benefit retirement plans are an efficient and cost-effective way to provide an adequate retirement benefit for public employees,” said Roger Rea, NSEA-Retired president and a member of the Executive Committee of the National Council on School Retirement.

“Plan members, as well as taxpayers, have lower contribution rates for a defined benefit

retirement plan than would be required to provide the same retirement through other methods,” said Rea. The National Institute on Retirement Security, said Rea, has concluded that a defined benefit plan provides economic security for retirees at about 46 percent less cost than for an equivalent retirement income provided by a defined contribution plan.

Actuary Donn Jones’ testimony concurred with Rea. Jones said local governments are obligated, by contract, to pay the benefits they have promised to current employees. Thus, switching to another type of retirement plan would increase costs for up to 20 years as current employees work toward retirement, he said.

NSEA lobbyist Jerry Hoffman said the state retirement plan for educators encourages longevity in the profession, as well as pension portability between districts.

“Longevity means more experienced teachers in the classroom,” said Hoffman.

“More experienced classroom teachers means an improvement in student achievement. The retirement plan supports quality in our public schools.”

Hoffman also noted that a study by the National Institute on Retirement Security shows that spending by retired educators supported nearly 4,000 jobs in Nebraska in 2006, the last year for which numbers are available.

“In other words, retirees support Main Street and small businesses,” he said.

How Does This Affect You? What Can You Do? Some policymakers and lawmakers feel the defined benefit retirement plan for educators is too expensive, even though educators like you pay half of the cost of the plan. They contend a defined contribution plan would be less costly. Here’s the difference: Defined benefit plan: Educators and their employer roughly split monthly contributions into the state plan. A professional investment team manages the investment. Monthly benefits at retirement are a set amount, based on years of service, annual salary and other factors.

Defined contribution plan: Educators and their employer would, presumably, continue to split contributions into a 401k-like plan. It would be up to the employee to manage the retirement account and pay fees for that management.

Upon retirement, the educator would have ‘X’ dollars to last his or her retirement years.

What you can do: NSEA is you. If your pension is under attack, NSEA will work to defend the benefits you have paid for and earned. But you are the best person to respond.

You ‘walk the walk’ every day; you know the issue; you know how political nonsense can affect children. It is your story to tell.

Contact your state senator through the State Capitol switchboard at 1-402-4712311 and urge preservation of your defined benefit plan.

Find your senator at www. nesa.org — look for the ‘E-mail your senator’ link under the ‘Policy & Politics’ tab.

November 2011 n The NSEA Voice n Page 13

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Fran

Gill Sans 11/

F

NSEA Award

When Carolyn Cam would be the recipient Teaching Excellence Aw idea it would take her of the world.

Yet there she was thi ing on the Great Wall of of the NEA Foundati Foundation and EF Tou big deal for a seconda ence and business teach “Everything was a h admit the Great Wall Square were tops on m After receiving the April 2009, she repres at the NEA Foundation ington, D.C., in Febru with excellence award other states (see story r awards). This spring, C of 25 of those honore invitation to join the 10 She jumped at the chan rewarding experience.

“I brought so many Bayard,” Campbell said For example, she’s students that they have ate, compared to their C parts. Children in Chin no brothers or sisters, a well-being of the fami far the single child ad the education system. apartments that are typ square foot range, and last from 10 to 14 hour On the other hand told teaching colleagu that Chinese teachers a spected.

“I’ve shared with oth different it is to be a cities – students actual homework is never an ever incomplete,” she s In Shanghai and Hon is the language spoken The curriculum, at lea bell visited, is far ahea U.S. “What the fourth graders in China are lea equivalent to what our niors and seniors are lea At an experimental s hai, parents are requi weekly evening class Page 14 n The NSEA Voice n November 2011

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From Bayard to China

NSEA Award Winner Visits Chinese Schools, Great Wall, Tiananmen Square When Carolyn Campbell learned she would be the recipient of NSEA’s 2010 Teaching Excellence Award, she had no idea it would take her to the other side

of the world.

Do you know an Yet there she was this summer, standNSEA member woring on the Great Wall of China, courtesy thy of kudos?

Check of the NEA Foundation, the Pearson the NSEA website for Foundation and EF Tours. It was a pretty a list of NSEA awards, big deal for a secondary computer scior scan the QR code ence and business teacher from Bayard. below on your smart“Everything was a highlight. I must phone — it will link admit the Great Wall and Tiananmen you to NSEA awards Square were tops on my list.”

Making friends: Bayard teacher Carolyn Campbell nomination forms.

After receiving the NSEA award in with a friend in China. Campbell’s trip to China came as April 2009, she represented Nebraska a result of winning NSEA’s Teaching Excellence Award. at the NEA Foundation Gala in Washand Ethics with their child. The school ington, D.C., in February 2011, along turn. In exserves children living in the district, with excellence award honorees from change she but also includes 400 students recruited other states (see story regarding NSEA received from across China, hence the “experiawards). This spring, Campbell was one professionmental” aspect. Of course, the school of 25 of those honorees to receive an al developrecruits those with the highest GPA. Aninvitation to join the 10-day China trip. ment hours. other Hong Kong school is financed by She jumped at the chance and found it a Campthe Hong Kong Jockey Club. Horseracrewarding experience. bell’s honor ing is a popular sport in China, and with “I brought so many things back to has since opened other doors. She now billions of dollars of gambling income, Bayard,” Campbell said. serves on the NEA Expert Teacher the Jockey Club supports the school.

For example, she’s shared with her Board, and has been named a Pearson students that they have much to appreciAcceptance of the trip also came Foundation Global Teaching Fellow. ate, compared to their Chinese counterwith expectations: Campbell had to Another trip awaits. Early next year, parts. Children in China typically have complete an intense course on Chinese the China tour group will meet again in no brothers or sisters, and the economic Culture and History, and also had a deWashington, D.C. – another unexpected well-being of the family rests on how tailed assignment to complete on her reopportunity! far the single child advances through the education system. Families live in apartments that are typically in the 200 square foot range, and school days can last from 10 to 14 hours.

On the other hand, Campbell has told teaching colleagues and friends that Chinese teachers are valued and respected.

“I’ve shared with other teachers how different it is to be a teacher in these cities – students actually want to learn; homework is never an issue, nor is it ever incomplete,” she said.

In Shanghai and Hong Kong, English is the language spoken in the schools.

The curriculum, at least where Campbell visited, is far ahead of that in the U.S. “What the fourth, fifth and sixth graders in China are learning in math is equivalent to what our high school juniors and seniors are learning,” she said.

At an experimental school in Shanghai, parents are required to attend a weekly evening class on Psychology

Deserving Honorees?

November 2011 n The NSEA Voice n Page 15

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Middle Level Ac Plans June Con xxxxxxx

News to build on the 2 dreds of teachers gather Plaza in New York Cit more from across the c in the conversation on The town hall offered portunity to voice prior new ideas, discuss polic questions about advanc profession.

For instance, 201 Teacher of the Year Kri said talking about teac way to get people to c as a profession.

“Once we’re there, creased salaries would m teacher is not true,” sa a better teacher for my my community. What I the table to discuss issu and my students.

“It’s really coming that if I didn’t make a wouldn’t do a good job because I do a good jo to work,” said Record.

Off to a Good Start: NBC Nightly News Anchor and Managing Editor Brian Williams greeted Omaha teacher Maddie Fennell with a warm handshake when she appeared on NBC’s 2011 Education Nation Summit. At right is New York City teacher Candido Brown. (NBC News Photo)

Off Schedule, On Point Omaha Teacher Maddie Fennell Talks NBC News Anchor Into Extra TV Time to Make Case for Educators There was a moment in the second hour of NBC News’ 2011 Education Nation Summit broadcast where the telecast clearly went off schedule.

Omaha teacher Maddie Fennell was on stage before a national television audience. She had an important point to make, and she wasn’t about to let a tightly scheduled network television program deny her that opportunity. So after NBC Nightly News Anchor and Managing Editor Brian Williams offered a teaser for the next segment and sent the program to commercial break, Fennell hit Williams with her very best “teacher look.”

It worked; Williams caved. After the break, Fennell and New York City teacher Candido Brown were still on stage.

“As we went to the break, as I thanked our guests, Maddie looked over at me with a hurt face,” said Williams. “It was a mixture of hurt and anger, and it was guilt-inducing, because she said to me, ‘what about tenure?’”

Fennell had been asked to prep for a discussion on tenure, but the topic had not been broached in her segment.

Williams then turned to Fennell and said “This is your chance to do your tenure thing in a short amount of time.”

“First of all,” she said, “let’s debunk the myth that tenure means you have a job for life. It does not mean you

have a job for life.

“Number 2, the best person to evaluate who is a good teacher in the school is not only the administrator, but the teacher across the hall and the teacher next door,” she said. “We need to get serious about peer evaluation.”

Educators, she said, must be “willing to stand up and have our voices heard” when the teacher across the hall may not be doing the best job of teaching – to walk in, and offer a helping hand.

“But we also have to be ready to say ‘we’ve helped you enough. In the best interests of the kids here, let’s find you someplace else to be to put your skills to work,’” she said.

Fennell has the credentials to talk about tenure and evaluation. The 2007 Nebraska Teacher of the Year just concluded her chairmanship of NEA’s Commission on Effective Teachers and Teaching (see related story). She is past president of the Omaha Education Association and serves on the NSEA Board of Directors. Most important: she has taught for 21 years in Omaha, and currently teaches fourth grade at Miller Park Elementary.

Brainstorm and Discuss The national ‘Teacher Town Hall’ was designed by NBC

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Surgical Equ Fennell, along with vited to talk about co evaluation. Williams a it would be like if teac fession, with the salarie corded doctors and law “I think it would ch of teaching. We cou people in who right no be teachers, but who c teachers,” said Fennell.

“People sometimes f ers are also parents, a own kids to put throu only that, but we end much of our income on tor does not buy his ow ments,” she said.

Williams asked wha to change how teacher measured.

“Number 1, we have a long time, education racism and sexism, be allow women and peop tain other positions. A changed,” said Fennell.

“Number 2, we hav to admit first, that ste teachers being paid b of years and their d problems that were i used to have high sch ing paid more than ele

maha teacher Maddie ight is New York City

oint

nchor rs

ate who is a good teachistrator, but the teacher or,” she said. “We need

g to stand up and have oss the hall may not be k in, and offer a helping

say ‘we’ve helped you ds here, let’s find you o work,’” she said. bout tenure and evaluaYear just concluded her Effective Teachers and president of the Omaha he NSEA Board of Difor 21 years in Omaha, iller Park Elementary.

scuss was designed by NBC

News to build on the 2010 event. Hundreds of teachers gathered at Rockefeller Plaza in New York City, and thousands more from across the country took part in the conversation on a virtual basis.

The town hall offered educators an opportunity to voice priorities, brainstorm new ideas, discuss policy issues and ask questions about advancing the teaching profession.

For instance, 2011 Connecticut Teacher of the Year Kristen Ann Record said talking about teacher salaries is a way to get people to consider teaching as a profession.

“Once we’re there, to say that increased salaries would make me a better teacher is not true,” said Record. “I’m a better teacher for my students and for my community. What I want is a seat at the table to discuss issues that affect me and my students.

“It’s really coming off as saying that if I didn’t make a lot of money I wouldn’t do a good job. That’s not true because I do a good job every day I go to work,” said Record.

Surgical Equipment Fennell, along with Brown, was invited to talk about compensation and evaluation. Williams asked them what it would be like if teaching was a profession, with the salaries and respect accorded doctors and lawyers.

“I think it would change the world of teaching. We could bring many people in who right now would love to be teachers, but who can’t afford to be teachers,” said Fennell.

“People sometimes forget that teachers are also parents, and we have our own kids to put through college. Not only that, but we end up spending so much of our income on class – my doctor does not buy his own surgical instruments,” she said.

Williams asked what could be done to change how teacher compensation is measured.

“Number 1, we have to admit that for a long time, education benefited from racism and sexism, because we didn’t allow women and people of color to obtain other positions. And now that has changed,” said Fennell.

“Number 2, we have to be willing to admit first, that steps and lanes – teachers being paid by their number of years and their degree – solved problems that were in the past. We used to have high school teachers being paid more than elementary teach-

Report on Teacher-Centered Vision of Teaching to Be Released Soon

Fennell Chaired Commission that Authored Report During his keynote address to delegates at the 2010 Representative Assembly, NEA President Dennis Van Roekel unveiled plans for the Commission on Effective Teachers and Teaching. His plan called for the commission to be staffed by 21 accomplished teachers, and to be supported by researchers, policymakers and academicians. Their goal: to examine the policies and practices governing the teaching profession, and to craft a new teachercentered vision of teaching and the teaching profession.

Van Roekel turned to Nebraska to find the chair of the commission: veteran teacher and association activist Maddie Fennell of Omaha. Fennell teaches fourth grade at Miller Park Elementary Fennell School in Omaha, and was Nebraska’s 2007 Teacher of the Year.

The commission’s work is now done, and the final report, Transforming Teaching: Connecting Professional Autonomy with Student Learning, will be released during American Education Week, Nov. 13-20.

The work took Fennell across the country to engage with dozens of education experts and, more importantly, to talk with thousands of practicing teachers from every type of school and community.

“Both teachers and experts were eager to engage in meaningful conversation about our profession; to define the meaning of effectiveness; and to take responsibility for the work of teachers and the learning of students,” said Fennell.

She said the commission was asked to think beyond the status quo, and said the report will advocate for a step away from traditional methods and mores.

“If we want to say we’re a profession, one of the major tenets is that a profession controls the quality of its work,” said Fennell. “Those in the profession assist each other, they learn from each other.We, as teachers, have to be responsible and not hand that over to administrators. It’s a big shift in culture and policymaking.

“We have to move evaluation away from a ‘gotcha’ tool to a real growth opportunity,” she said.

“The best teachers I know are those who are hardest on themselves,” she said.

Work on the commission improved her skills, said Fennell. Some of the committee ideas have been shared with her Miller Park colleagues, where they are beginning to implement some of the peer observation ideas.

Members of the NEA Executive Committee have the “essence and flavor” of the report, but have not seen the final draft. The report will become the property of the NEA upon release, with a call to action expected from the NEA Executive Committee.

For more details, watch the NSEA website during American Education Week at: www.nsea.org

ers, and men being paid more than women. Those solved the problems of the past. We need new solutions to the problems of the day.

“We have to stop treating teaching like a vocation, and realize it is a profession,” she said. “Just because we love our kids doesn’t mean we aren’t professionals.”

Williams agreed. “It is so important to remember that none of the people in this room who answered their own

calling to do the only thing they ever wanted to do for a living, or as a profession, thought that should also come with a part-time job at Costco to make ends meet at home.”

To view the entire town hall meeting, go to the Education Nation website, and click on the ‘Events’ link and look for the ‘Teacher Town Hall’ link. The video is split into two hours; Fennell appears in the second hour. The site is at: www.educationation.com November 2011 n The NSEA Voice n Page 17

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“Gill S that I hop of the ret who truly ment mo Making c threatens many of

1

Invested in membership: The University of Nebraska-Kearney Education Association held an all-member meeting in September, and five new instructors joined NSEA, making an investment in their professional organization and gaining membership benefits as well.

From left are Christina Jackson, communications; Rochelle Krueger, UNK Library; Christie Maloyed, political science; Ching-Shan (Alex) Jiang, communications; and Claude Louishomme, political science.

Ed Walker

Edgar Stine Walker, a teacher and NSEA leader at PapillionLaVista, died on July 10. He was 72.

Walker spent 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, and achieved the rank of major. He received the Bronze Star during his term of service. After his retirement from active duty, Walker started a second career – as a teacher. For 20 years, Walker taught first grade at Papillion-LaVista’s Tara Heights Elementary School.

Walker was a regular delegate to NSEA’s annual Delegate Assembly, served as treasurer of the Papillion-LaVista Education Association, and was a supporter of NSEA’s Children’s Fund.

He is survived by three sons and their families. Memorials were to the NSEA Children’s Fund or the Faith Presbyterian Church in LaVista.

Snook Snippe

Securing your finan important piece of NE efits’ mission.

Participation in supplementary retire ment savings program can help you reach you retirement goals. Fo information on how th NEA Valuebuilder pro gram can help you mee your retirement saving needs plus different lev els of support go to th NEA member Benefi website at: neamb.co Also check out NE DirectInvest, a conven self online savings prog Or you can take a Five-Minute Retirem where you can take th retirement plan to deter are now and where you You can also take adv feature articles that pro on your Social Securit much Social Security w you retire, and what you you underestimate your

Professional Here are some grea fessional growth oppo NEA Member Benefits n NEA Academy: V for information. n Lesson Planet: A riculum search solutio educators, Lesson Pla to making the lives of by helping them locat reviewed, standards-c resources in seconds. T 20 percent discount for

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Page 18 n The NSEA Voice n November 2011

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Snookie’s Snippets

Walker

tine Walker, a teacher leader at Papilliond on July 10. He was

spent 20 years in the rce, and achieved the ajor. He received the r during his term of er his retirement from Walker started a sec– as a teacher. For 20 er taught first grade -LaVista’s Tara Heights School. was a regular delegate annual Delegate Asved as treasurer of the Vista Education Asnd was a supporter of ldren’s Fund. urvived by three sons families. Memorials he NSEA Children’s he Faith Presbyterian LaVista.

Securing your financial future is an important piece of NEA Member Benefits’ mission.

Participation in a supplementary retirement savings program can help you reach your retirement goals. For information on how the NEA Valuebuilder program can help you meet your retirement savings needs plus different levels of support go to the NEA member Benefits Krumbiegel website at: neamb.com Also check out NEA Valuebuilder DirectInvest, a convenient, do-it-yourself online savings program.

Or you can take advantage of the Five-Minute Retirement Checkup, where you can take the pulse of your retirement plan to determine where you are now and where you need to be!

You can also take advantage of online feature articles that provide information on your Social Security earnings, how much Social Security will provide after you retire, and what you need to know if you underestimate your expenses.

Professional Growth Here are some great ideas for professional growth opportunities through NEA Member Benefits: n NEA Academy: Visit neamb.com for information. n Lesson Planet: A powerful curriculum search solution for PreK-12 educators, Lesson Planet is dedicated to making the lives of teachers easier by helping them locate targeted, peerreviewed, standards-correlated online resources in seconds. There is a special 20 percent discount for NEA Members Consumer Tip of the Month Before you leap into applying for a major loan like buying a home, it pays to understand credit; to review your credit report; and to know your credit score. Your credit report changes each time you use credit, so it pays to track your score over time and to monitor your credit, so you know what’s on your report before a lender looks at it.

Snookie Krumbiegel is Nebraska’s NEA Member Benefits representative.

NEA Member Benefits

Save Cash Now! ‘Click & Save’ Program Saves you Money

Want to save cash fast? Check out the NEA Member Benefits ‘Click & Save’ program! Consider these highlights for November 2011: Save 15 percent at New Balance; get $7 off $70 at Target; Get $5 off $50 at Sears; save 10 percent at Shoebuy.com.

And if you’re looking for a real deal, get $25 gift certificates to restaurants for as low as $2. Check the deals out at: www.neamb.com/clickandsave And here are other NEA Member Benefits bargains for you to consider: Save 15 Percent on Carson-Dellosa Essentials Carson-Dellosa, a premium provider of standards-based educational content and classroom solutions, helps teachers create an engaging and dynamic, 21st century classroom with a wide range of inspiring decoratives, innovative handson materials, and engaging books for PreK through grade 8.

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Save up to 25 percent, and get additional offers to save even more! Find out more and book your reservation today — visit the NEA Member Benefits website and look for Alamo under the Travel & Leisure tab, then “Benefits” and “Discounts.” That website is at: www.neamb.com Member Discount, Free Upgrade at Enterprise!

Enjoy your discounted NEA member rate, plus a free upgrade on your next Enterprise rental. The upgrade applies to an economy through standard size car reserved in advance at participating locations. To learn more, visit the NEA Member Benefits website and look for

Enterprise under the Travel & Leisure tab, then “Benefits” and “Discounts.”

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Now is the time to engage your students with new activities. Find innovative, online, teacher-reviewed lesson resources — fast — using the Lesson Planet curriculum search solution.

NEA Member Exclusive: Receive 20 percent off one-year membership in Lesson Planet! Check it out at: http://www.neamb.com/ home/1209_5382.htm Raise Funds for Your Classroom with Adopt-A-Classroom Rally your students’ parents, your family members and friends, local business owners and others in your network to help support your efforts in the classroom. Register online with Adopt-A-Classroom, a program that matches donors with teachers so you can raise funds for classroom supplies and materials.

All donations are taxdeductible, and 100 percent of donations are passed through to your account. To get started, click on the ‘adopt a classroom’ tab at this website: www.teachade.com The program is brought to you by a partnership of NEA Member Benefits; TeachAde, the online community for teachers; and Adopt-A-Classroom.

Use Curriki Online Resources and Tools — for Free!

NEA members have free access to thousands of online learning resources and tools such as lesson plans, videos, worksheets, multimedia activities and courses through the Curriki online community. Obtain open source peer-reviewed content, collaborate with other educators, and share your own content.

Find out more about Curriki by looking under the Professional Resources tab at: www.neamb.com November 2011 n The NSEA Voice n Page 19

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BCBS Q&A

EHA Health Care Reform Update

By Kurt Genrich EHA Plan Advocate Over the last few months, several issues have come up that may change the Patient Protection Affordable Care Act, which was signed into law by President Obama on March 23, 2010.

Several portions of the law have been implemented, such as increased benefits for preventive services; allowing dependents to stay on their parent’s health plan until they turn age 26; eliminating maximum dollar amounts of health coverage; and no pre-existing conditions for children under age 19.

However, more critical parts of the law are now being reviewed for their legality and economic value. Two Federal Circuit of Appeals courts (Cincinnati, Richmond) reviewed the rulings of lower courts earlier in the year regarding Individual Mandate of Coverage for all legal U.S. residents.

The two decisions were split, so it is anticipated that the U.S. Supreme Court will hear the argument for a final ruling next year.

If the ruling goes against the implementation of this mandate, the funding of the law may be in jeopardy. Furthermore, the Obama administration has determined that the long-term care insurance plan — the CLASS Act, cannot be put into place because of cost considerations. Officials stated the long-term care program has critical design flaws that can’t be fixed to make it financially self-sustaining.

Finally, Affordable Insurance Exchanges for individuals and small groups are to be implemented by January 2014 by either individual states, or in the absence of a state exchange, by federal government. Until the Supreme Court ruling occurs, many states, including Nebraska, are moving

cautiously on setting up their own plans.

Premium Holiday for Direct Bill/Early Retirees The Educators Health Alliance (EHA) Board is pleased to announce that in its May 26, 2011, meeting the Board approved a premium ‘holiday’ for December 2011 for our Direct Bill/Early Retiree membership.

We believe proper management of the EHA plan, along with the prudent use of medical services by plan participants, has contributed to low premium increases and recent favorable claims costs in the plan. For members utilizing Automatic Bank Debt for the payment of premiums, the amount transferred from your account will be $0.00 for the month of December. For members who mail a premium payment to BCBSNE, your December billing statement will reflect a zero sum balance.

Please contact Kent Trelford-Thompson at 402-4584810, or EHA Plan Advocate Kurt Genrich at 402-2172042, with questions. They can also be reached at these email addresses: kent.trelford-thompson@bcbsne.com kurt@ehaplan.org The Educators Health Alliance has named Kurt Genrich to serve as the EHA Plan advocate. Genrich will work with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska plan participants to answer questions and promote the plan. The EHA Board is comprised of six NSEA representatives and three each from the Nebraska Association of School Boards and the Nebraska Council of School Administrators. NSEA Associate Executive Director Neal Clayburn is chair of the EHA Board of Directors.

Call Genrich at 1-866-465-1342; on his cell phone at 402-2172042; or e-mail him at: kurt@ehaplan.org

Tips to Fight Cyberbullying Now on Facebook Discussion Area Available There are Facebook pages that offer tips to fight cyberbullying.

The ‘Cyberbullying: Laugh at it, and You’re Part of It’ page notes the sometimes hard-to-distinguish difference between “cyberbullying and harmless fun.” The site hosts a discussion area, and encourages visitors to learn how to make a difference in cyberbullying behavior.

The site also includes a list of tips useful in beating cyberbullying – those tips are found under the ‘Info’ tab on the site home page. That site is at: http://www.facebook.com/ EndCyberbullying

In the early 1900s, a special flag ceremo ery April 9, in remem died, students would pictures, hold plays, ceremony in tribute pomattox Day, the en Civil War. Times change. M fade. The last vetera Civil War died in the The celebration of Ap tox Day had died before that. It was ger thought to be r The day the First Wo ended in November 1 came a new holiday occasion to celebra learn about, the va patriotism and servi vember 11, Armistic became the new natio iday. Teachers were e to incorporate that into their teaching m and lessons on Amer and civics, just as th for Appomattox Day. War II ended with render of Japan on 1945. No special da of World War II unti the name of Armistic 1950s. Times had cha peace, patriotism and teaching around Vete

D In addition to App Decoration Day on t also a time for teac the values of Ameri see parades, hear sp those who served. D Day in 1967. What graves of veterans h all graves and has no have a picnic or a co

Page 20 n The NSEA Voice n November 2011

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From the Executive Director

date

The Values of Teaching

g up their own plans.

m Holiday l/Early Retirees Health Alliance (EHA) o announce that in its eeting the Board ap‘holiday’ for Decemiree membership. f the EHA plan, along es by plan participants, ases and recent favorembers utilizing Autopremiums, the amount e $0.00 for the month l a premium payment statement will reflect a

ompson at 402-458Genrich at 402-217be reached at these e-

bcbsne.com lan.org

named Kurt Genrich to serve as work with Blue Cross and Blue o answer questions and promote ed of six NSEA representatives sociation of School Boards and nistrators. NSEA Associate Exof the EHA Board of Directors. on his cell phone at 402-217-

In the early 1900s, schools across Nebraska would hold ideas of peace or Americanism. a special flag ceremony to honor the end of the War. Every April 9, in remembering those who had served and Narrowing Curriculum died, students would write themes, give speeches, draw In many schools, celebrations around these days of pictures, hold plays, sing songs, and participate in a flag remembrance have become rare and related lessons or ceremony in tribute to Apteaching about these days pomattox Day, the end of the and their associated values Civil War. are virtually non-existent.

Times change. Memories This is not a charge against fade. The last veteran of the teachers or their school disCivil War died in the 1950s. tricts. Those teachers who The celebration of Appomatcontinue teaching these lestox Day had died decades sons do so in the face of the before that. It was no lonfederal law, No Child Left ger thought to be relevant.

Behind, that has changed the The day the First World War scope of teaching in America. ended in November 1918 beSchools have come to undercame a new holiday and the stand a simple fact about that occasion to celebrate, and law: if it isn’t on the test, learn about, the values of don’t waste time teaching it. patriotism and service. NoWhen the narrowing of a curvember 11, Armistice Day, riculum that in many schools became the new national holhas resulted in teachers not iday. Teachers were expected teaching cursive writing (it to incorporate that holiday isn’t on the test), we probably into their teaching materials should not expect taking time and lessons on Americanism A Question of Values: NSEA Executive Director Craig to honor historic American and civics, just as they had R. Christiansen with his cousin, Harvey Meeves, on Memo- values that are much harder for Appomattox Day. World rial Day. to teach...and to test. Times War II ended with the surhave changed. render of Japan on Sept. 2, 1945. No special day was established to honor the end What is the Future? of World War II until Kansas began the move to change My father was a World War II veteran. At my father’s the name of Armistice Day to (All) Veterans Day in the funeral, his cousin Harvey, also a veteran and part of the 1950s. Times had changed again, but the same values of American Legion honor guard, presented the folded flag peace, patriotism and service continued to be themes of to me with the words “...on behalf of a grateful nation...” teaching around Veterans Day. Everyone who watched that ceremony had the advantage of years of school lessons about the values of citizenship Decoration Day and service. They understood the value of service for freeIn addition to Appomattox Day on April 9, there was dom. The lessons of war — and of peace — are important Decoration Day on the last Monday of May. This was values that have traditionally been taught in America’s also a time for teachers to incorporate lessons about schools. These lessons and traditions take time. the values of America at a time when students would If our schools face demands that narrow or eliminate the see parades, hear speeches, and decorate the graves of time to teach and celebrate these values for our students, those who served. Decoration Day became Memorial it is time we should all be concerned about the result for Day in 1967. What had started as a day to decorate the our communities and our nation. If we don’t have the time graves of veterans had changed into a day to decorate to teach about Veterans Day and those who risked — or all graves and has now become more of a day to simply gave — their lives to allow us to have free public schools, have a picnic or a cookout than a day to renew or revisit is there a future for either freedom or our schools?

November 2011 n The NSEA Voice n Page 21

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NSEA Executive Director Craig R. Christiansen

“

The

distribution of wealth is not the issue. It is the equitable distribution of taxation to pay this state’s bills.

”

NSEA-Retired Corner

Three Retired Leaders Cited Higgins, Black Honored; Jensen Elected to NEA Post

“give back” to the community. The students, with the help of a few Three members of the NSEA-Retired leadership retired members, were honored with awards at the annual summer meetwill build furniing of the NEA-Retired affiliate in Chicago this past ture, clean, design summer. bulletin boards, Joe Higgins, John Jensen and Tom Black were honbuild benches ored before their peers. and flower beds, Higgins, a past president of NSEA-Retired, won the mulch, and move Higgins Jensen Black NEA-Retired Distinguished Service Award for his 45 the kindergarten years of dedication to public education — a first for room to a new ada Nebraska retiree. During his career, he filled several local, dition — among other things. The NSEA-Retired local affilistate, and national positions, including service as president of ate — the Platte Valley Retired Education Association — will the Westside Education Association; as president of NSEA; as provide several retired member/workers. NSEA-Retired is a a member of the NSEA and NEA Boards of Directors; as secfinancial sponsor. retary and president of NSEA-Retired; and two terms on the Since 2003, NSEA-Retired members have partnered with Nebraska State Board of Education. junior and senior SEAN members in a nationally-recognized Jensen is the newly minted vice president of the NEA-ReIntergenerational Mentoring activity. The three-year plan tired. Jensen has also represented Nebraska members on sevmatches a retired teacher and a student about to enter student eral local, state and nateaching. The retiree tional levels. He is a past provides experience president of the Omaha and support during the Education Association; student’s preparation was the first teacher to for and participation in be president of the Nastudent teaching, and tional Council on Teachduring the student’s first er Retirement; served on year as a professional. both the NSEA and NEA Look for this year’s Boards of Directors; was activity in February the founding chair of the 2012. Retired memNEA Pension Trustee bers interested in being Caucus; and has served a mentor, contact Mauon the NEA-Retired Adreen Nickels or Rebecca visory Council.

Smith at one of these ePast President Barmail addresses: bara Matteson presented maureen.nickels@ NSEA-Retired Corner nsea.org Editor Tom Black with a rebecca.smith@nsea. first place plaque in the org NEA-Retired Spotlight Enjoying a show: Listening intently to a presentation at the Journalism Award catEach year NSEANSEA-Retired Greater Nebraska Fall Conference are Jan Rowe, egory for his editing and Retired provides three Gretna, and Walta Sue Dodd, Omaha. The conference, held at the writing of The Corner, $1,000 scholarships to Nebraska Nature and Visitors’ Center near Alda, attracted more which appears in The SEAN applicants in than 100 members, as well as visits by State Senators Dennis Utter Voice. Black has won their junior or senior of Hastings and Greg Adams of York.

12 such national journalyears. Based on the stuism awards since 2000, dent’s collegiate success writing for both the NSEA-Retired Corner and the NSEA-Reand financial need, the assistance will ease the stress of paying tired Advocate. the bills during the student teaching experience.

Applications are due on or before March 1, 2012. The three The NSEA-Retired, SEAN Partnership awards will be given at the SEAN Delegate Assembly. ScholarOn Nov. 19, the Student Education Association of Nebrasship applications can be found at this website: ka (SEAN) holds its fifth Outreach to Teach activity at Howwww.nsea.org/formembers/sean ard Elementary School in Grand Island. As part of the SEAN Tom Black, Editor Fall Conference, the leaders select an area school at which to wpc6296@cableone.net Page 22 n The NSEA Voice n November 2011

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Coaches gather: N and David Gee of Gr coaches who visited t Coaches Association right, was one of seve booth.

American

Celebrate Yo

American Educatio near, but there is stil time to promote the host a fabulous obs this very special week The Nov. 13-19 celebrates public edu support professionals, receives a quality edu The event features a n Monday, Nov. 1 n Tuesday, Nov. 1 n Wednesday, No n Thursday, Nov. n Friday, Nov. 18: To help plan these developed an online t for working with the promotional materials Join in the Americ online toolkit to creat importance of bringin students and public fig can make a difference h

ed Corner

Extra Credit

Cited

Math Work

3/10ths

“give back” to the community. The students, with the help of a few retired members, will build furniture, clean, design bulletin boards, build benches and flower beds, mulch, and move the kindergarten room to a new adEA-Retired local affiliion Association — will rs. NSEA-Retired is a

rs have partnered with a nationally-recognized The three-year plan t about to enter student eaching. The retiree rovides experience nd support during the udent’s preparation or and participation in udent teaching, and uring the student’s first ear as a professional.

Look for this year’s ctivity in February 012. Retired memers interested in being mentor, contact Maueen Nickels or Rebecca mith at one of these email addresses: maureen.nickels@ nsea.org rebecca.smith@nsea. org

Each year NSEAetired provides three 1,000 scholarships to EAN applicants in heir junior or senior ears. Based on the stuent’s collegiate success ase the stress of paying perience. arch 1, 2012. The three gate Assembly. Scholarebsite: bers/sean Tom Black, Editor wpc6296@cableone.net

n Number of battfefield deaths, per 100,000 people, in this century. That compares to 70 in 19th century France, and 60 in the 20th century, which included two world wars and several genocides. In a new book, Harvard psychologist Steven Pinker contends that statistics reveal dramatic reductions in war deaths, family violence, rape, murder and other mayhem, and makes the case that a smarter and more educated world is becoming more peaceful.

118

Coaches gather: NSEA members and coaches Tim Waldner of Pierce, left, and David Gee of Grand Island Northwest, center, were among the scores of coaches who visited the NSEA booth at the annual meeting of the Nebraska Coaches Association in Lincoln in August. UniServ Director Rich Wergin, at right, was one of several NSEA staff who spent time greeting members at the booth.

American Education Week is 90!

Celebrate Your Profession; Materials are Online American Education Week is near, but there is still plenty of time to promote the event and host a fabulous observance of this very special week.

The Nov. 13-19 observance celebrates public education and honors those individuals – teachers, education support professionals, parents and others – who make certain that every child receives a quality education.

The event features a special observance for each day of the week. They include: n Monday, Nov. 14: Kick-Off Day. n Tuesday, Nov. 15: Parent’s Day. n Wednesday, Nov. 16: Education Support Professionals Day. n Thursday, Nov. 17: Educator for a Day. n Friday, Nov. 18: Substitute Educators Day. To help plan these celebration days, the National Education Association has developed an online toolkit with background information, activity ideas and tips for working with the media, as well as downloadable resources, templates, and promotional materials.

Join in the American Education Week efforts across the country – use the online toolkit to create unforgettable events and activities that will highlight the importance of bringing together everyone in the community – educators, parents, students and public figures in an effort to build great public schools. Together, we can make a difference. Learn more at: http://www.nea.org/grants/19823.htm

n On IQ tests that are adjusted to keep the average at 100, Pinker says that today’s teen would have scored a 118 in 1950, and 130 in 1910. That intelligence, Pinker contends, translates into a more gentle world. “As we get smarter, we try to think up better ways of getting everyone to turn their swords into plowshares at the same time,” Pinker told The Associated Press.

You Are Wanted... ...to help spruce up Grand Island’s Howard Elementary School.

The date: Saturday, Nov. 19.

The cause: The Student Education Association of Nebraska annual Outreach to Teach event, held in conjunction with the SEAN Fall Conference.

The SEAN project is patterned after a project hosted by NEA every summer.

Students, active members, NSEA-Retired members and others will meet at Howard to clean, paint, organize, trim, rake and otherwise spruce up the school grounds. Work will start at 9:30 a.m.

For details, or to volunteer, contact NSEA’s Tamara Mick at 1-800-7420047.

November 2011 n The NSEA Voice n Page 23

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Cowboy Up! Panhandle Bargaining Conference Will Review Changes in State Law Western Nebraska negotiators: don’t miss the NSEA Panhandle District’s Cowboy-Up Bargaining Conference at the Gering Civic Center on Saturday, Nov. 12.

The conference will feature many of the same topics as the Oct. 21-22 sessions in Grand Island. NSEA Director of Bargaining and Research Larry Scherer will report on changes to the state’s bargaining statutes that occurred during the last legislative session. Other agenda items will include: n Effects of the new bargaining law, and how it will affect members. n How to read a comparability study. n An update on expected 2012 legislative bills. n A review of local negotiated agreements.

The conference will be held at the Gering Civic Center. There will be a one-car-per-local travel reimbursement for those traveling 30 miles or more.

To register, go to the NSEA website at: www.nsea.org

Speaking of Teaching “Countries like Finland, Japan and South Korea have improved their schools by offering a rich and broad curriculum of the arts and sciences, not by focusing only on testing basic skills, as we do.”

— Diane Ravitch, Education historian and author

Mailed By: The Nebraska State Education Association

Suite 200, 605 S. 14th St., Lincoln, NE 68508-2742

Family of Teachers

Nearly 120 years: The three children of the late Robert and Charlotte Peck of Coleridge have plenty of time leading the classroom – nearly 120 years combined, in fact.

At left is Jennie Leiting, who taught for 36 years in the elementary school at Plainview. Center is Ronald Peck, who taught physical education, coached football and wrestling, and was a guidance counselor in several Iowa schools, and at Beemer and Winside, for a total of 42 years. Peck had state champion football teams in both Iowa and Nebraska. At right is Joyce Cook, who has completed 40 years of teaching, including five years at Laurel, three years at Leigh, and 32 years at Wausa – the last 11 years teaching grades 8-12 math. All are Wayne State College graduates.

If you have a family of teachers, snap a photo and send the photo and caption to Family of Teachers, c/o NSEA, 605 S. 14th, Lincoln, NE 68508-2742.

Getting-to-Know-You Writing Project From Elaine Fedderke, a ninth-grade English teacher in Defiance, OH:

“On the first day of school, I list six statements about myself. Three of the statements are true and three are false, in no particular order. I ask the students to decide which ones might be true about me. After they have made their decisions, I explain which are which. Then I have the students make six true/

false statements, and trade with a partner to decide which are which.

“The final step is to choose one of their true statements, and use it as a topic sentence and compose a paragraph about it. I collect their writing samples and use them to get a handle on their writing ability right away on the first day. I can skim them as the next class is doing statements and paragraphs, and not really have any papers to grade.”

Sign up for Works4Me at this link: http://www.nea.org/tools/Works4Me.html

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