Maine Educator June 2018

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Career Earnings Summary Inside!

Educator

June 2018 www.maineea.org @maineea

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Maine Educator • June 2018

June 2018

Volume 78 Number 6

CONTENTS News You Can Use 4 5 6 7 8 9

Opening Bell Editor's Note President's Message Free Stuff!

Defusing Defiant Behavior 4 Ways to Pack Up Like a Boss

4

Career Earnings Summary

10

Perspectives New Leadership

25

10

Advocacy

10 Career Earnings Summary - MEA analyzed the data, district by district, to uncover what your contract truly means over the course of a career.

12 Tech Talk - Smart Phone Video Apps 13 On Track to Retire?

14 #RedforEd 15 Fast Facts 16 Artwork Cover Contest

18

Your Association 18 19 20 21 22 24 25

We've Got Your Back The Great American Read GET ADVICE FROM PEOPLE your budget to the max . . . . . . . Trust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–5 Celebrating 25Stretch Years of MEA Benefits Make better-informed financial decisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–7 How Strong are "Teacher Unions?"

WHO UNDERSTAND Help protect what you have and who you love . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–9 International Make Daylife easier and enjoy the buying process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Trips of a lifetime Save on vehicles, too . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Running & Reading TRAVEL ON AN EDUCATOR’S BUDGET educator’s budget . MEA . . . . . members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12–13 Perspectives - Travel Newon anLeadership: Today, there are countless places to look fo can help you gain new perspectives that you can share Reap the rewards of a long th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vacations . . . 14–15 elected new officers at its 90 career annual RA. and insurance products, travel discounts, re with your family and students. Here are ways to save money while advice and budget tips. Yet with all the reso Who won, and what are their thoughts for the exploring new horizons. available, it’s more difficult than ever to find membership? information that’s relevant to you as an ed th 26 90 MEA Representative Assembly Expand your world Stay in the know Your NEA membership provides advice yo 30 Calendar trust and solutions that are exclusively des gathered the seven simplest ways toDeals: keep on top ofPenny your benefits — because the more you 31 Just For Fun -We’ve NEAMB Summer to your needs. know, the more valuable your benefits will be. neamb.com/learnmore is the place to start.

Saved is a Penny Earned-Head into summer by Keep this guide as a quick resource. You’l 1. Unlockof inside information, secret savings codes and private sites — in two minutes flat. making the most your membership andbooking take countless ideas for saving money, improving Register for your benefits and save your info here (your User ID is your email address): finances and ensuring the security of your f advantage of member exclusive savings.

Summer Your World Discounts

NEA Travel Newsletter: Make travel dollars go further: Subscribe to our travel newslette for valuable articles, plus member-only deals and discounts. neamb.com/travelsignup

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Trafalgar Guided Vacations: Receive 10% savings on more than 230 guided vacations Europe, North and South America, Africa, As Australia and New Zealand. neamb.com/Trafalgar

• Stretch Your Travel Budget by Avoiding These 6 Fees: neamb.com/no-fees-4-me

• 8 Little-known Vacation Deals for Teachers: neamb.com/travel-deals • Free Attractions to See in the U.S.: neamb.com/free-attractions

• Travel the World With Grants Just for Educators: neamb.com/my-grant

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Password

2. Request your NEAchieve!, NEA Retirement and NEA Travel newsletters at neamb.com/newsletters

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Career Earnings Summary Inside!

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• How to Plan a Vacation Without Going Into Debt: neamb.com/vacation-budget

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MAINE

June 2018 www.maineea.org @maineea

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G Adventures: Explore all seven continents land or by sea, with an experiential, small gro travel company offering the world’s greatest adventures. NEA members and up to three travel companions can receive a 15% discou off their next trip OR any other single And if youGever have offer, questions, please don’t Adventures whichever is greater. neamb.com/gadventures

to call us at 1-800-637-4636.

Editorial Staff Board of Directors Robert Walker, Bo Zabierek Executive Director Suzen Polk-Hoffses summer vacation.

Jesse Hargrove Maine Educator (ISSN #1069-1235) is published by: that interest you: 4. Sign up for NEA Click & Save email alerts, for advance notice of special offers Editor Giovanna Bechard, Beth French Maine Education Association neamb.com/clickandsave

Communications Director Ken Williams 35 Community Drive, Augusta, ME 04330-8005 207-622-4418; fax 207-623-2129

Jill Watson 5. Join the discussion on Twitter and Facebook. Ask members for their opinions, or post a question Layout/Ad Manager Shawn Berry, Jim Thornton POSTMASTER: send address changes to: for our specialists.

Graphic Designer Samantha Garnett-Sias Maine Educator 35 Community Drive, Augusta, Maine 04330-8005 President Lois Kilby-Chesley Terry Martin 6. Call 1-800-637-4636 to speak with a Member Advocate for benefits assistance.

Vice President Grace Leavitt Bob McCully Non-Profit US Postage paid at Augusta, Maine and Treasurer Denise Simoneau Janet Howe Kuech additional offices.

7. Registermailing a beneficiary for your no-cost NEA Complimentary Life Insurance coverage. Let us 12 NEA Director Amanda Cooper know where yourates want your to go: neamb.com/complife For advertising andbenefits information please contact: Shawn Berry 35 Community Dr., Augusta, ME 04330 207-622-4418 ext. 2206 and insights to help you reach your goals — whether you’re planning a career move, a family or Managing Editor Volume 78 Number 6 - Copyright 2018

Deborah Butler John Messier Neil Greenberg Thomas Moore III Gerry French

Spring 2018 • www.maineea.org

June 2018 • www.maineea.org

3

Opening Bell Clarifying Certification As MEA has reported in the past, the legislature proposed several changes to the certification process. MEA had multiple, concerns surrounding these changes. MEA members voices made a difference, and the teacher and ed tech certification process will maintain the local certification committees in rule and keep the current rules/ responsibilities/qualifications in place for Ed Tech I's, II's and III's.

MEA's President, Lois Kilby-Chesley, MEA Executive Director Rob Walker and MEA Training and Professional Development Director Dan Allen met with the Maine Department of Education Commissioner Robert Hasson to discuss the upcoming transition to the online teacher and ed tech certification program. MEA has clarified that those educators who were due on July 1, 2017 and had completed requirements by that date will use those credits.

Any credits earned between July 1, 2017 and July 1, 2018 will be available for use in the next five-year cycle ending in 2022-23.

Supporting Policies, not Politicians Members in SAD 46 EA are going into fact finding after more than 300 days without a contract. The two sides are at a standstill despite the Association's willingness to settle on a proposal which is less than 1% difference in cost between proposals from the Association and the Board. On paper, the Board's proposal shows healthy increases to some, however most of the increases simply raise wages to meet the current minimum wage law. The current scale had several steps that were well below minimum wage requirements. Senior support staff who have stuck with the district for many years through tough times will again take it on the chin. The Board's proposal with the additional amount the Board wants employees to pay for insurance (currently 100% single coverage) offers senior employees increases of less than 2% a year (less than 1% in year 3). The Board isn't concerned that some employees won't even get a cost of living increase. The two sides are also at odds with a number of language issues, the Board refuses to even make some benign housekeeping changes.

4

Maine Educator • June 2018

County Teachers of the Year Congratulations to the County Teachers of the Year!

2018 County Teachers of the Year: Androscoggin: Katie Toothaker, Minot Consolidated School Aroostook: William "Bill" Guerrette, Presque Isle Middle School Cumberland: Connie Russell, Mabel I. Wilson School Franklin: Jessica Ellingwood, Spruce Mountain High School Hancock: Jennifer Farnham, Hancock Grammar School Kennebec: Katy Jones, Winslow Junior High School Knox: Anthony Lufkin, Friendship Village School, Prescott Memorial School, Union Elementary Lincoln: Daniel Hupp, Great Salt Bay Community School Oxford: Jessica McGreevy, Oxford Hills Middle School Penobscot: Shana Goodall, Orono High School Piscataquis: Joseph Hennessey, Piscataquis Community High School Sagadahoc: Christine Del Rossi, Mt. Ararat High School Somerset: Patti Champagne, Bloomfield Elementary Waldo: David Coffey, Belfast Area High School and Troy Howard Middle Washington: Kailee Colbeth, Washington Academy York: Kristin Klin, Bonnie Eagle Middle School

Photo credit: Maine DOE

Athletics Grant Winners Congratulations to Lewiston High School (left photo) and Woodland Consolidated School (right photo) who will benefit from the 2018 California Casualty Thomas R. Brown Athletics Grant Program. Each school plans to use their grant money to purchase much needed new uniforms.

Editor's | Note

Email questions or story ideas to editor@maineea.org

Giovanna Bechard, Editor

My sister is a teacher.

took them away and wrote them up and sent them to the principal's office… nothing ever really seems to work with this particular class of students. Then, she told me about a recent day with her 9th graders: "I taught the kids about the Berlin Wall and they were like, so? They said 1989?! That’s so long ago, because Snapchat was 30 seconds ago. If it’s not instant, this generation doesn’t care about it. There is nothing more interesting to them than the last Snapchat.”

And so is her reality teaching high schoolers. As they say… the struggle is real. How you, as educators, decide to connect with your students, even the smaller ones, who grew up with technology, is up to you. As always, this magazine provides some innovative technology tips through our Tech Talk page. This is a regular part of the magazine you can find in every issue, and in back issues available online on our website maineea.org.

Anna Lisa Aurora, Hamden High School History Teacher

M

y sister, Anna Lisa, is a history teacher at a high school in Connecticut. While I’ve never been a teacher, I’ve heard stories for years about what happens in her high school. If I'm honest, some of them are absolutely horrifying. They’re the same ones I’m sure you were all aware of and live through each day. But, just a few weeks ago she said something that really stuck with me, and really was a true picture of the changing face of education.

We were driving on a long car ride and she was telling me a story about how her students were always on their cell phones even though she gave them warnings and

[

As the year winds down, remember we here at MEA always have your back. If you find yourself looking for summer deals, make sure to make your membership work for you and take advantage of the deals and discounts (including ones to theme parks and big time shows) at neamb.com and ticketsatwork.com. Check out some sample discounts on page 31.

Finally, thank you. Thank you for your hard work this school year. Thank you for driving students safely to school.

Thank you for feeding them healthy meals. Thank you for tying their shoes, and teaching them to be people. Thank you for all you do. And, perhaps take the advice of my sister and make sure to smile despite the circumstances—even if you're not using a Snapchat filter.

Connect with us on Social Media: /maineea @maineea /maineea @maineeducationassociation

Giovanna Bechard Editor editor@maineea.org June 2018 • www.maineea.org

5

MEA | President's Message Lois Kilby-Chesley, MEA President

SIGNING OFF, OVER AND OUT This page represents the last communication from me to members as MEA’s President. It was a joyous moment when my friend and Vice President, Grace Leavitt, was declared President-elect. Grace will take the reins on July 15th. I know she is very able to continue to move MEA forward and to fend off the attacks from our adversaries.

What do I foresee down the road for MEA? With the correct leadership at the State House at all levels, the MEA will be able to accomplish even more for our students, our communities, and our MEA members.

With support we can continue to provide more than just adequate preparation in our classrooms and return to being national leaders in the education of our students. We will be able to more easily push back against those people who denigrate and disrespect public school employees at the same time flaunting charter schools, unproven reform measures, and cuts to our most basic needs. We will know in November if the next four years will be a continual battle to support our careers, or if through the election of friends of education, we will be able to focus our attention on our students - our future.

For the long-term I anticipate the MEA will be able to survive the present anti-union rhetoric as long as our MEA leadership stands strong, stays united, and always puts the common good first. As President I knew how important it was for Grace, Denise and I to work together. Their input and perspective were important for every decision I made.

It was the same for me when I was Chris Galgay’s VP and Rob Walker’s Treasurer. We shared our ideas. Ultimately, however, it is the President where the buck stops. The MEA will survive when our leadership stands in unity and steadfastly supports our membership and each other.

6

Maine Educator • June 2018

Testing. Proficiency-Based Diplomas. State-wide Teacher Contract. Minimum Wage. Collective Bargaining. Ed Tech Authorization. Surcharge on Maine’s Wealthiest. GPO/ WEP. UMS Retrenchment. TIF Schools. Right to Work.

Social, Racial and Economic Justice. COLA’s. Certification.

Food Shaming. Outsourcing. MePERS. School Funding.

Livable Wage. Charter Schools. The Governor. All of these and much more have been my life for the last six years.

None of the these were ever very far from my thoughts.

Some of the bad ideas are gone for the time being, but like so many other times in education, they may come back. Having 24,000 colleagues, from Student MEA to active members to MEA Retired, being vigilant, contacting legislators and showing our unity will help ensure our sustainability.

Since this is my last time chance to say it, I want to give a shout out to thank you for your active participation in the MEA. That you have chosen to belong to the MEA shows your value of, and devotion to, the mission of the Association of unity and collective strength. Thank you for this, because without you the MEA would be just another organization run by a select few. Instead we are a union that is proud to be able to say we are the largest union in the State of Maine.

I look forward to seeing you all in the future - don’t count me out yet - as I move on to another adventure or two. Over and out.

Lois Kilby-Chesley MEA President lkilby-chesley@maineea.org

Free stuff!

It’s one of the best four letter words out there-FREE-especially when you’re on a tight budget. Maine Educator found a few freebies!

News You Can Use Science Lesson Plans-Ocean Networks

Podcast Lesson Plans Project Audio: Teaching Students How to Produce Their Own Podcasts is a four-part unit for teachers to help students produce audio narratives. Each part features mini-lessons with activities and includes examples and resources.

Link for resource: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/04/19/ learning/lesson-plans/project-audio-teaching-students-howto-produce-their-own-podcasts.html

Photo credit: oceannetworks.ca

The Ocean Networks' Educator Resources are classroom and lab activities to supplement K-12 science. Search and filter by keyword, grade level or category (lesson plan, activity, lab exercise, tutorial).

Clicking a resource provides an overview. Topics include, biodiversity and species abundance and gas hydrates among dozens of others.

Link for Resource: http://www.oceannetworks.ca/ learning/resources/educator-resources

Foreign Language Lesson Plans

Photo by Siddharth Bhogra on Unsplash

Theater Lesson Plans Through Puppetry The Center for Learning in the Arts and Sciences' K-2 Puppetry units are an opportunity for young students to practice theater and to develop literacy and social skills. The Center offers three units and an article from the Journal for Learning through the Arts that describes arts integration in an urban elementary school. Units include Busy Spider, Three Billy Goats Gruff and others.

The 30 lesson plans in Edsitement's Foreign Language Lesson Plans can be filtered by grade (K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12), subtopics (ancient and modern languages). Resources can be sorted by lesson plan and curriculum unit titles and limited by requiring the inclusion of worksheets. Topics include French and Family, Des Colores and more.

Link for Resources: https://edsitement.neh.gov/subject/ foreign-language

Link for Resource: http://sites.uci.edu/class/k-2-puppetry/ http://sites.uci.edu/class/files/2013/09/Jabuti-PuppetryUnit.pdf

Head to Maineea.org to find your resources and start clicking today!

June 2018 • www.maineea.org

7

News You Can Use

Defusing Defiant Behavior

R

eflecting on how you respond to discipline problems is a powerful tool to change your own behavior. When done with a deliberate eye toward critical analysis you can create a more common-sense approach to addressing issues.

As you think about yourself as a disciplinarian, consider the following methods that have worked for your colleagues around the state.

I pull from Responsive Classroom and the "Nurtured Heart" approach. No one strategy works for every kid. I try to use positive behavior intervention first, but some kids require special circumstances. I am very clear from the beginning about what I expect, what it should look like and sound like, then it's the student's responsibility to do the right thing. The first time I tell them to "reset" (they stop and try again with a different choice) then they have to move their spot, then they have to leave the room (sometimes to the office, sometimes to a buddy classroom sometimes just in the hall.) I tend not to use individual incentive plans because I find many kids manipulate the system. We collect compliments, as a whole class, to earn a whole class reward. This year, I had a group level incentive plan because I had so many kids struggling with transitions and chattiness. Consistency is key as well as not engaging with power struggles.

-Cassie Edwards, MSAD 60 TA

In an ideal world, the very best way to curb bad behavior in the classroom is to have dynamic lessons that fully engage students in learning. ​But the world is not always ideal, at least in my class, and sometimes my learning activities are less engaging. When I see a risk that kids will act out, I try to use the classroom space and proximity to help them realize that my eyes are on them and that I expect respect for me and other learners. Standing near a student can often be just enough to remind them of potential consequences for actions. This proximity can also allow for additional connections with a student whose behavior is not always ideal. Building that relationship can do wonders to curb future behavioral challenges!

-Mary Beth Nolt, Scarborough EA 8

Maine Educator • June 2018

For me, the best strategy is trying my best to build a better relationship with the student. If I can discover a common interest that we share, it helps the student see me more as a person than as an authority figure who they want to rebel against.

- Nate Petersen, Hermon TA

Students Who Blurt You all know the student who seems to have a story about everything you’re talking about. The kid who’s mom has a car just like the one in the book, or the child who went on a vacation like the one you’re describing as well. They’re all great stories, but they derail the lesson in an instant. Take this advice from a fellow educator to turn stories into conversations at a more appropriate time of the day.

Student Talking Parking Garage Create a road with black construction paper and divide the road with white adhesive strips, like parking spaces.

Create a colored pocket (like an old library pocket to hold a card) and place the pocket on the adhesive strip.

When a student makes a comment while you’re teaching ask that student to write their name on an index card with a few words to remind them of the idea and then place their card in the parking garage (the pocket you created). Once kids get used to the method they can on their own get up and write their own parking garage notes and place them in the spots created along your road. To make this work, create a “sharing time” later on in the day where everyone has the chance to talk about their parking garage stories. With this method you’re still giving students an opportunity to talk about what’s important to them and you’re giving yourself the time and space to teach your lesson uninterrupted.

News You Can Use

4toWays PACK UP like a BOSS Pack Up & Get Out For some of you, it may seem like the end of the school year may never come.

For others, the end may be coming too soon. Either way, come the end of June, you'll have to figure out what to do with all that stuff packed into every nook and crannie in your classroom.

Whether you've packed your room for 30 times before or this is your first go at it—take a minute to learn or remind yourself of these simple tips to make the process easier at the end of the year.

Put Your Students to Work If you've ever been surprised by the willingness of your children to help you with chores, you will likely find the same to be true of your students. Here are some ideas to involve your students while they are still learning.

•

Sort Supplies-Toward the end of the year, as students use supplies like markers, glue or crayons, have them check to see what's out of ink, which crayons are too broken to use, and even ask them to sharpen pencils before putting them away for use next year.

•

Check Games-Inevitably pieces of games or puzzles get lost in the mix throughout the year. Ask your students to make note of what's missing as they use the items in the last weeks of school. Have them mark each game with a colored stickey note and write on the note what piece is broken or lost. With this method, all you have to do is find the stickies and fix what's broken or add pieces to the games.

•

Review Classroom Books-You've likely all asked yourself this question at one point—"What the heck happened to that book?" As the year winds down, ask students to place aside the books that look like they've been through a battle and need to be repaired or returned to the school library. Then ask students to sort the books by category or reading level, depending on how to organize your library. This whole process can be done during the final weeks of the school year as students are selecting books to read during any quiet reading time.

Chuck It This is a no-brainer, and seems easy enough but deserves the reminder. Don't be afraid of the trash can and recycling bin. If you are sure you're not going to use it, toss it, give it to a colleague, a student, anyone but don't leave it in your room to take up space.

Label It Get organized now. Find the "home" for your worksheets, manipulatives, calculators, etc. and label each spot with a purpose. It's easy when you want to leave for the end of the year to pitch everything into a few bins and call it good. The better idea is to is to take the time to separate morning worksheets, or lessons by category and labeling them now will save so much time at the end of the summer when the weather is really warm and your classroom is really hot.

June 2018 • www.maineea.org

9

Advocacy

Career Earnings Summary

As part of MEA’s continued commitment to educate its members on issues that impact their work and life, MEA’s Director of Collective Bargaining and Research complied the follow data regarding salaries, in particular, career earnings in Maine. Career Earnings is a strength-of-scale measure. The name is a bit of a misnomer as it does not equate to actual career earnings, which should be higher.

The measure allows for an apples-to-apples comparison

between scales. The Career Earnings measure takes into account the beginning salary, the top salary, how long it takes to get from the beginning to the end, and what the Step increments and Lane increments are between the beginning and end of the scale. A 30-year “career” is used, allowing movement from the beginning to the end of most scales.

Career Earnings Summary

33.

Kittery

$62,972

$1,672,853

10 Years BA; 20 Years MA

34.

Lewiston

$68,080

$1,671,020

2017-18

35.

RSU 26, Orono

$71,300

$1,659,850

School District

MA Max

Cumulative Total

36.

Glenburn

$68,515

$1,653,890

1.

York

$78,073

$2,066,622

37.

Islesboro

$64,234

$1,649,067

2.

Falmouth

$78,791

$1,950,075

38.

RSU 15, Gray

$69,182

$1,641,047

3.

Portland

-

$1,949,733

39.

Auburn

$62,442

$1,638,131

4.

Wells-Ogunquit CSD

$76,890

$1,946,657

40.

Acton

$64,556

$1,637,770

5.

Yarmouth

$75,852

$1,936,190

41.

RSU 71, Belfast

$63,180

$1,637,490

6.

Cape Elizabeth

$75,930

$1,917,907

42.

Sanford

$65,260

$1,632,392

7.

RSU 35, Eliot

$73,682

$1,892,808

43.

Athens

$62,489

$1,630,445

8.

AOS 98 - Edgecomb

$73,249

$1,857,638

44.

RSU 60, Berwick

$64,186

$1,629,506

9.

South Portland

$70,782

$1,843,725

45.

RSU 13, Rockland

$64,647

$1,626,320

10.

Five Town CSD

$73,660

$1,833,008

46.

Northport

$62,373

$1,625,539

10.

RSU 28, Camden

$73,660

$1,833,008

47.

Saco

$63,901

$1,625,311

12.

RSU 21, Kennebunk

$74,630

$1,807,310

48.

RSU 02, Hallowell

$65,619

$1,620,582

13.

Bangor

$73,091

$1,798,443

49.

AOS 92 - Vassalboro

$67,827

$1,616,720

14.

RSU 51, Cumberland

$70,527

$1,792,219

50.

Dayton

$63,215

$1,615,888

15.

Scarborough

$71,634

$1,788,455

51.

RSU 57, Alfred

$65,484

$1,611,625

16.

Thornton Academy

$73,309

$1,788,365

52.

AOS 93 - Nobleboro

$60,701

$1,610,640

17.

AOS 98 - Southport

$71,976

$1,783,541

53.

Lincolnville

$65,652

$1,608,892

18.

AOS 98 - Georgetown

$72,235

$1,777,000

54.

Madawaska

$60,775

$1,603,656

19.

AOS 93 - Bristol

$67,694

$1,771,376

55.

RSU 34, Old Town

$64,074

$1,600,469

20.

RSU 01, Bath

$74,891

$1,769,510

56.

RSU 10, Rumford

$63,555

$1,592,943

21.

Gorham

$68,230

$1,747,165

57.

RSU 56, Dixfield

$63,555

$1,592,942

22.

AOS 93 - South Bristol

$69,334

$1,743,943

58.

RSU 20, Searsport

$62,055

$1,590,288

23.

RSU 75, Topsham

$70,700

$1,729,500

59.

RSU 73, Jay-Livermore

$63,529

$1,586,061

24.

Brunswick

$74,832

$1,719,689

60.

AOS 94 - SAD 46, Dexter

$64,011

$1,583,120

25.

AOS 93 - Great Salt Bay CSD

$67,846

$1,718,954

61.

RSU 08, Vinalhaven

$68,250

$1,578,800

26.

RSU 05, Freeport

$68,418

$1,708,329

62.

AOS 94 - Harmony

$64,160

$1,578,117

27.

AOS 98 - Boothbay CSD

$73,463

$1,701,294

63.

RSU 74, Anson

$64,975

$1,576,760

28.

RSU 07, North Haven

$65,462

$1,693,750

64.

Lisbon

$64,509

$1,574,526

28.

Veazie

$68,425

$1,693,750

65.

RSU 49, Fairfield

$66,034

$1,573,763

30.

St. George

$65,697

$1,687,700

66.

RSU 23, Old Orchard Beach

$60,122

$1,573,366

31.

Biddeford

$64,134

$1,681,350

67.

RSU 40, Waldoboro

$65,297

$1,570,432

32.

Portland

$65,140

$1,673,969

68.

RSU 19, Newport

$64,575

$1,567,913

10

Maine Educator • June 2018

Advocacy 69.

RSU 06, Buxton

$61,750

$1,561,250

115. RSU 64, Corinth

$57,252

$1,426,263

70.

RSU 11, Gardiner

$63,170

$1,558,879

116. RSU 29, Houlton

$59,800

$1,423,000

71.

RSU 61, Bridgton

$59,602

$1,558,754

117. RSU 39, Caribou

$58,002

$1,421,769

72.

AOS 90 - Baileyville

$63,406

$1,556,638

118. Greenbush

$57,800

$1,421,000

73.

RSU 88, Van Buren

$67,134

$1,555,489

119. RSU 33, St. Agatha

$58,814

$1,415,998

74.

Easton

$63,156

$1,550,358

120. RSU 68, Dover-Foxcroft

$57,995

$1,415,024

75.

RSU 42, Mars Hill

$62,376

$1,546,020

121. RSU 55, Porter

$58,712

$1,411,980

76.

RSU 72, Fryeburg

$61,969

$1,543,564

122. Appleton

$56,594

$1,409,081

77.

AOS 91 - Mt. Desert Elem

$64,903

$1,542,790

123. Otis

$53,500

$1,407,750

78.

RSU 83, Bingham

$59,738

$1,534,628

124. RSU 25, Bucksport

$60,276

$1,402,116

79.

RSU 78, Rangeley

$62,820

$1,532,995

125. Waldo Region 7

$50,745

$1,401,370

80.

AOS 91 - Bar Harbor

$64,534

$1,531,720

126. RSU 67, Lincoln

$58,000

$1,399,502

80.

AOS 91 - Mt. Desert CSD

$64,534

$1,531,720

127. RSU 80, Guilford

$58,398

$1,397,450

80.

AOS 91 - Southwest Harbor

$64,534

$1,531,720

128. AOS 90 - Princeton

$56,704

$1,396,250

80.

AOS 91 - Tremont

$64,534

$1,531,720

129. Washington Academy

$55,990

$1,391,330

80.

AOS 91 - Trenton

$64,534

$1,531,720

130. Blue Hill

$50,229

$1,386,150

85.

AOS 95 - SAD 27, Ft. Kent

$59,267

$1,524,542

131. RSU 63, Holden

$56,250

$1,384,070

86.

RSU 86, Fort Fairfield

$62,564

$1,522,595

132. Ellsworth

$55,750

$1,383,575

87.

RSU 04, Litchfield

$63,527

$1,521,449

133. RSU 09, Farmington

$57,377

$1,379,760

88.

RSU 53, Pittsfield

$62,067

$1,520,592

134. Fayette

$55,871

$1,370,916

89.

RSU 59, Madison

$58,221

$1,518,681

135. RSU 79, Presque Isle

$57,811

$1,363,343

90.

RSU 22, Hampden

$66,165

$1,516,775

136. Castine

$50,360

$1,360,483

91.

RSU 24, Sullivan

$59,150

$1,514,244

137. Winthrop

$59,241

$1,357,858

92.

RSU 12, Windsor

$67,554

$1,511,312

138. Foxcroft Academy

$57,995

$1,357,019

93.

Hope

$60,890

$1,510,613

139. RSU 50, Katahdin Area

$56,255

$1,345,956

94.

AOS 92 - Winslow

$68,817

$1,509,850

140. Brooksville

$48,865

$1,345,452

95.

Wiscasset

$68,715

$1,508,385

141. East Millinocket

$56,000

$1,335,500

96.

Hermon

$61,993

$1,506,644

142. RSU 84, Danforth

$54,006

$1,330,830

97.

RSU 52, Turner

$60,438

$1,500,129

143. RSU 37, Harrington

$52,666

$1,328,466

98.

Fryeburg Academy

$61,000

$1,500,000

144. Medway

$49,198

$1,326,223

99.

RSU 54, Skowhegan

$66,400

$1,494,450

145. Cherryfield

$51,308

$1,325,840

100. Knox Region 8

$64,870

$1,492,010

146. RSU 70, Hodgdon

$54,012

$1,314,124

101. RSU 82, Jackman

$58,176

$1,479,700

147. New Sweden

$50,525

$1,301,256

102. So. Penobscot Region 4

$59,200

$1,478,500

147. Woodland

$50,525

$1,301,256

103. RSU 32, Ashland

$61,891

$1,476,878

149. RSU 87, Carmel

$49,628

$1,283,301

104. RSU 18, Oakland

$65,200

$1,475,725

150. Penobscot

$46,600

$1,279,250

105. Milford

$61,800

$1,470,050

151. AOS 77 - Pembroke

$49,416

$1,275,070

106. RSU 44, Bethel

$58,747

$1,469,960

152. AOS 96 - Machias

$52,250

$1,264,000

107. AOS 77 - Calais

$58,542

$1,462,085

153. AOS 77 - Eastport

$50,740

$1,257,155

108. Surry

$56,231

$1,453,997

154. Caswell

$44,000

$1,243,000

109. Flagstaff RSU, Eustis

$57,632

$1,453,536

155. AOS 96 - Jonesboro

$48,200

$1,238,500

110. RSU 17, Paris

$57,853

$1,450,850

156. Moosabec CSD, Jonesport

$46,766

$1,232,780

111. Oxford Region 11

$59,008

$1,448,550

157. AOS 96 - Whiting

$48,724

$1,223,720

112. RSU 58, Phillips

$60,171

$1,439,562

158. AOS 96 - East Machias

$50,800

$1,212,750

113. RSU 03, Unity

$55,700

$1,436,900

159. So. Aroostook Region 2

$49,091

$1,182,090

114. RSU 16, Poland

$56,750

$1,429,000

160. AOS 77 - Charlotte

$41,984

$1,103,890

June 2018 • www.maineea.org

11

Tech Tech Talk Talk

Best video editing apps for your phone

iMovie

Quik

(iOS & Android)

(iOS & Android)

Maybe it's a no brainer for some—but this app is super easy to splice clips together, add titles, music and voiceover to your video. If you're looking for templates to pretend your video is a movie, iMovie can do that too.

For those that don't really want to "do" anything, Quik lets your pick a theme and creates the video for you from your photos and video clips. You can add your own titles, style, filters etc., but the app puts it all together. Easy peasy.

Powerdirector

Magisto

(Android)

(iOS)

The iMovie version for the Android user. The downside...to get rid of watermarks, and export to 4K you have to pay a low monthly fee.

12

Maine Educator • June 2018

No video, no problem. Magisto helps you easily create a slideshow or video collage without any actual video editing skills needed from the user. This app offers one tap sharing of your easily created videos on social media/text/email. Just upload your photos and videos, choose a style, add music, then share.

Advocacy

ON TRACK TO RETIRE? How to tell if you’ve saved enough to retire when you want, and what to do if you haven’t.

M

any people get serious about calculating whether they are on target to retire when they hit their fifties.

That’s often when reality starts to sink in and retirement no longer seems like just a vague goal. Figuring out whether you’ll have enough assets and income to cover a retirement that can easily stretch to 30 years can be daunting, but there’s no lack of advice out there. For a quick-and-dirty way to see if you’re on track, you could check one of the multitude of savings benchmarks financial firms offer.

Or you could use one of the many online retirement calculators provided by Fidelity Investments, T. Rowe Price, Vanguard and others.

A better way For a more accurate estimate, you’ll have to crunch your own numbers. A few things to keep in mind: When you estimate yearly expenses in retirement, remember that you’ll no longer be contributing to retirement savings, you’ll likely pay less in taxes, and if you plan to pay off your mortgage, those payments will disappear. (You may want to boost your budget for travel and hobbies.) Don’t forget that your costs will go up with inflation (figure 3% a year).

The next step is to add up your annual sources of guaranteed income, such as Social Security and possibly a pension. To find your estimated Social Security benefits, open a “my Social Security” account online. Finally, subtract your income from expenses. What’s left is how much money you will need to draw down from your savings to maintain your lifestyle.

You need to make sure you won’t deplete your savings too fast. One widely used guideline is to take an initial withdrawal of 4% of your nest egg and increase the dollar amount of your withdrawals each year by the annual inflation rate. Based on historical investment returns, this rule of thumb holds that there is a high probability that your nest egg will last for at least 30 years, assuming 50% or 60% of your portfolio is invested in stocks and the rest in bonds.

By Eileen Ambrose and Kimberly Lankford, The Kiplinger Washington Editors

Save more In 2018, you can contribute $18,500 on a pretax basis to a 401(k), plus another $6,000 if you’re 50 or older. As long as you turn 50 anytime this year, you can start making those catch-up contributions now.

This money will be taxed when you withdraw it in retirement. Because of this, a tax-deferred account may be depleted 25% to 35% faster in retirement than a taxable account, says Jennifer Davis, a CFP in Rockville, Md. She suggests also stashing money in a Roth IRA, which offers tax-free withdrawals in retirement, or in an after-tax investment account. This will give you flexibility to draw from different accounts to minimize taxes later.

Prepare for health costs Long-term-care expenses can devastate a financial plan.

In 2017, the average private room in a nursing home cost $97,500; assisted living cost $45,000; and the average home health aide charged $22 per hour (which would total $64,000 a year for eight-hour shifts every day), according to the Cost of Care study by Genworth, a long-term-care insurer.

You should also plan for other medical bills in retirement, even after you are on Medicare. When you add up the expenses, Fidelity estimates that the average couple retiring at age 65 in 2017 will spend $275,000 on health care costs, including Medicare premiums and out-of-pocket expenses, or coverage to fill the gaps, over 21 years or so. “People very, very much underestimate how much they may need,” says Katie Taylor, vice president of thought leadership at Fidelity. To help pay for medical bills later, consider setting up a tax-friendly health savings account now.

But retirement is about more than the numbers. It’s a new chapter in life. “Individuals go right into crunching their numbers to figure out whether they have enough, but they haven’t sat down and envisioned what enough is for,” says Maria Bruno, senior investment strategist at Vanguard. © 2018 The Kiplinger Washington Editors brought to you by NEA Member Benefits.

June 2018 • www.maineea.org

13

Advocacy

#RedforED Maine educators came out in strength for their fellow educators around the nation and wore red to show support for those who are fighting for school funding, professional pay, and better learning conditions for their students. Below are just a few of the photos shared on social media.

14

Maine Educator • June 2018

s t c a F Fast

#RedforED

Thomas Oviatt, Arizona Educator Vermont-NEA "I'm walking out because enough is enough. I have spent 30 years in education and in that time we've seen cut after cut after cut and excuse after excuse.

We've absolutely had enough," says technology specialist Thomas Oviatt, an educator for 30 years. "Not only do I think Arizona students deserve better, I think that every student deserves better." - NEA Today

"If you thought that what they are facing can't happen here, look no further than the governor's education plan, which would make massive cuts in programs that our kids depend on while slashing more than 2,000 of your jobs." - VermontNEA as it gears up to rally at the Vermont State House to let the governor and lawmakers know it won't stand for this attack on schools, educators, and students.

2,000

Teaching positions in Arizona remained vacant four months into the school year, and another 866 teachers quit or never showed up before the beginning of the current school year, according to a survey of the 172 school districts in Arizona as published on Tucson.com

Lily Eskelsen Garcia, NEA President "We don't ask sanitation workers to buy recycling bins. We don't ask surgeons to buy scalpels and sutures. It's time to stop asking teachers to make up for the funding gaps created by their state legislatures. We are leaders, fierce organizers, we are the union and we will never stop advocating for our students. If legislators don't learn the lessons that we are teaching them with the national #RedforEd movement, they may find themselves working part-time jobs to make ends meet after this November's election." Lily Eskelsen Garcia, sixth-grade teacher, Utah Teacher of the Year, and president of the National Education Association.

4

The number of days students in Pueblo, Colorado attend school as the district changed from the typical five days to save money. Teachers in Pueblo went out on strike, for the first time since 1994, to advocate for more funding for schools, including more funding to settle their contract. Teachers in Pueblo are among the lowest paid in the state, despite a booming economy in Colorado.

68,000

West Virginia voted early this year, according to the Secretary of State. That's 23,000 more ballots compared to the 2014 midterm primary. The state's Democratic chairwoman attributes the turnout in part to the state's teacher walk-out and strike.

June 2018 • www.maineea.org

15

Cover Artwork Contest

MAINE

Educator Your Association

WINNER

W

HAT I LOVE ABOUT MAINE

The MEA is pleased to showcase student artwork during its third annual Maine Educator Art Cover Contest. The contest gave students, in all grade levels, the opportunity to create a piece of work that focused on the theme-"What I Love About Maine." Artwork was judged in the following categories: K-4, 5-8, 9-12/Digital. On the following two pages, please enjoy the work of the selected finalists, with the overall winner's work displayed, on the cover. The MEA is excited to promote both students work and the Arts through this contest, and thanks all of those who participated. To see the images below in their full 8x10 size, please log on to the Maine Educator Online.

9-12 Finalists

Hunter Ferretti Tri-County Technical Center Teacher: Karen Walsh

Digital Finalist

Jordan Farnham Houlton High School Teacher: Cindy Mooers

Brandon Michaud Tri-County Technical Center Teacher: Karen Walsh 16

Maine Educator • June 2018

Amy Smith Orono High School Teacher: Jessica Barnes

K-4 Finalists

Jenny Nguyen Great Falls Elementary Teacher: Kimberly Kelly

Grant St. Laurent Fairview School Teacher: Colleen Henry

5-8 Finalists Advocacy

Faith Pete Glenburn School Teacher: Lindsay Hartwell

Ben Jalbert Lewiston Middle School Teacher: Kay Allison

June June 2018 2018 •• www.maineea.org www.maineea.org

17 17

Your Association

We've got your back!

Question: I feel like there are so many new laws regarding schools I can’t keep up. I’m familiar with the rules of restraint and seclusion. Are there any new rules or laws regarding student contact that educators should be aware of?

When teachers & professors need someone in their corner, MEA is there.

When support staff members need help in their career, MEA is there.

MEA is your resource for any and all issues related to your career.

We've got your back!

teacher or employee has instructional, supervisory, or disciplinary authority over, regardless of the age of the student, and regardless of the student giving consent.

Further, it continues to be a crime for any teacher, employee, or school Answer: It only takes one misstep official who is at least 21 years-old or error in judgement in the use of to engage in any sexual contact with social media or communicating with a student less than 18 years-old who a student to potentially ruin a career, attends school in the same school let alone subject you to potentially district/RSU or educational unit. criminal charges and public ridicule.

The distinction is whether or not The Maine Legislature has responded the teacher has the student in a class to the outrage that these types of or is otherwise responsible for the stories generate by amending the student – in which case the age of the criminal laws in ways that directly student that they engage in sexual impact school employees, specifically how students and educators physically contact with is irrelevant – there is no instance where sexual contact is interact. allowed. Sexual contact with a student Discussing sexual contact with a minor is only legal if the teacher/employee is or a student can be an uncomfortable at least 21 years old and does not have topic. However, it is critical that any authority over the student in any teachers and those who work with manner and the student is at least 18 students understand the scope of years old. criminal laws that impact them and Finally, a teacher or employee having not rely on outdated, inaccurate, or supervisory authority over a student even apocryphal stories which could enrolled in any public or private school put their livelihood and personal can be charged with gross sexual freedom at risk. assault for engaging in a sexual act with First, Maine law now absolutely a student, regardless of the age of the prohibits teachers and employees student. This is a more serious crime with instructional, supervisory, or as it concerns sexual “acts” as opposed disciplinary authority over a student to sexual “contact.” In addition, from intentionally subjecting a the court can increase the sentence student enrolled in any private or imposed if it is proved that the sexual public elementary, secondary or act was committed in a safe children special education school, facility, or zone. A conviction under any of the institution to any sexual contact. In provisions I have discussed in this plain English, it is a crime for any article also requires that the individual school employee to engage in any be placed upon on the Sex Offender sexual contact with a student that the Registry.

18

Maine Educator • June 2018

MEA Legal services excludes coverage for legal representation for such criminal charges because they are not employment related. Even if your actions are “legal,” you are not safe from having discipline imposed by a school district for actions that violate school policy. Even if criminal charges are dismissed or unsubstantiated, being involved in criminal proceedings will likely subject you to having your certification investigated and risk your continued employment due to the significant publicity that typically surrounds such salacious allegations.

My advice is to never put yourself in a situation where you are alone with a student in any capacity not related to school, and even then, make sure that other protections are in place to eliminate the potential for any misunderstanding or false charge to be made against you and police have to rely upon your word against that of a student.

Andrew Mason is General Counsel for the MEA. Mason graduated magna cum laude from Vermont Law School. He has practiced in the field of Employment Law for more than 10 years. Previous to his career in law, he worked with blind an visually impaired children, and was a part of IEP teams.

Your Association

School children visit the farm in Brooklin, Maine, that inspired Charlotte's Web by E.B. White

M

EA's continued effort to inspire children to read continues this spring and summer as the MEA partners with Maine Public to sponsor PBS's The Great American Read. The Great American Read is an eight-part television and online series designed to spark a national conversation about reading and the books that have inspired, moved, and shaped us.

PBS has created a list of 100 diverse books and is encouraging everyone to read as many of the books as possible and then vote for your favorite. Maine Public will also create a space for Mainers to vote for their favorite book.

"The MEA is excited to be part of this reading initiative to encourage both children and adults to read. Maine Public, along with its national chapter, PBS, have consistently proven they care about helping educators and supporting learning. This partnership is one way MEA can support Maine Public, the educators who use the resources provided by the organization, and reading as a whole," said Lois Kilby-Chesley, MEA President.

More About The Great American Read The Great American Read premiered Tuesday, May 22, at 8:00 p.m. on Maine Public Television with a launch special, kicking off a summer of reading and voting. The episodes will uncover details about the books, their authors and those who are reading them. In the fall, additional episodes will reveal America's most beloved book, featuring appearances by celebrities, athletes, experts, authors, and everyday Americans advocating for their favorite book. Be sure to join in the conversation and start reading, and then vote for your favorite! In the fall, Maine Public will announce the book that received the most votes here in Maine on Maine Calling on Maine Public Radio.

Quiz!

How Many Books Have You Read From the List of 100?

Visit: http://www.pbs.org/the-great-american-read/quiz/ and share your results with @Maineea

June 2018 • www.maineea.org

19

Your Association

Celebrating 25 Years

Reasons Why MEA Benefits Trust Health Insurance is Better Nearly 70,000 individuals rely on the MEA Benefits Trust for their health care coverage. The MEA Benefits Trust is run by and for members. The Trust is non-profit and has some of the lowest administrative costs in the insurance business and, members benefit from MEABT being one of the largest clients. There is power in size! That savings, over the 25 years in existence, is passed on to you, the member. As the MEABT celebrates 25 years this year, make sure you take advantage of the unique offerings available to you through MEABT. Please visit the MEABT website to see all the valuable programs that are available to you.

Rate Protection

MEABT is committed to providing the best health insurance plans at affordable rates for the benefit of all Plan participants. They negotiate annually. In 2013, due to legislation, the MEABT transitioned to a new rating methodology. The modified risk pool approach allows school districts with 51 or more eligible employees (including retirees) to benefit in the rating process from good claims experience, while also protecting school districts with less-than-average claims experience by capping the maximum increase a school district could receive. School districts with 50 or fewer employees are part of a statewide community rate.

Member Assistance Program (MAP).

A free and confidential service, you and your household members can get help with a wide range of issues. Call 855-686-5615 or visit anthemeap.com. Login (MEABT) to set up limited free visits with licensed therapists, financial advisors, attorneys and other professionals.

Vision Coverage.

The MEABT added vision coverage to the active insurance plans in July of 2016. Visit an in-network provider/facility to obtain the highest level of benefits.

Vision benefits include vision testing, frames, lenses or contacts.

LiveHealth Online

This benefit provides you with a 24/7 virtual doctor, psychologist or therapist visit where they can assess your condition, provide a treatment plan and even send a prescription to your pharmacy. Just download the free LiveHealth Online app or visit livehealthonline. com to pre-register/use.

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Maine Educator • June 2018

Valuable Insurance Coverage

MEABT offers four comprehensive health insurance plans for active employees and early retirees. For those retirees enrolled in Medicare, they offer the Group Companion Plan, a product that supplements Medicare’s coverage and protects you from balances left after Medicare’s payments. Regardless of which MEABT health plan you enroll in, you can be assured that your plan provides comprehensive prescription drug coverage which shields you from the rising costs of prescription drugs.

Walk-In Facilities across the state.

Members are able to access health care at a lower cost option when an emergency room visit is not necessary.

For a current list of participating facilities visit meabt. org/documents.

Onlife Health

MEABT’s wellness incentive program offers participants the opportunity to maintain or to improve their health status by participating in healthy lifestyle activities; fitness, nutrition, mindfulness, and emotional health.

When you participate, each point you earn is worth $1, points are redeemed in $50 increments, up to $250 in prepaid cards that can be used at over 150 retailers.

To register go to OnlifeHealth.com. You must be an Anthem plan member and over age 26 to participate.

Condition Care

This program offers guidance and support to manage long-term chronic conditions including Asthma, Diabetes, COPD, CHF, and CAD. Call 866-596-9812 to register and engage. You must be an Anthem member to participate. Participates receive waived or reduced physician & pharmacy copays, along with gift card incentives. If eligible, you, your spouse or domestic partner, must be 18 years old or older to receive the ConditionCare gift card incentives.

Your Association

MAINE STRENGTH VS. OTHER STATES

How STRONG are "Teacher Unions?"

As educators take to the streets nationwide, the movement of unions is growing. With a sea of red in the streets and in our schools, Maine Educator took a closer look at the strength of U.S. “Teacher Unions”, as they’re called by researchers. What is the perception of “Teacher Unions” on a national level, and where does Maine fall into this conversation? Below are some key findings from the most recent study on the topic from The Thomas B. Fordham Institute Research Report entitled: How Strong are U.S. Teacher Unions? A state-by-state comparison.

ABOUT THE STUDY: 37 variables analyzed across 5 areas 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Resources and membership Involvement in politics Scope of bargaining State policies Perceived influence

MAINE FINDINGS OVERALL RANK

22 7 16 11 20 44

STATE POLICIES

SCOPE OF BARGAINING PERCEIVED INFLUENCE RESOURCES AND MEMBERSHIP INVOLVEMENT IN POLITICS*

*defined as financial contributions to political parties/candidates and percentage of union members who were delegates to the state’s Democratic and Republican conventions/ caucuses

CONCLUSIONS In terms of strength, the Maine Education Association stands among the best states to collectively bargain with state policies that benefit students and employment. With a ranking of 7 in the nation for state policies, Maine ranks among the best in the categories of class sizes that benefit students, fair evaluation processes, security in the job and limitations on charter schools. The MEA was, and continues to be instrumental in preserving our neighborhood public schools, fighting to put a cap on charter schools which siphon money away from the schools most students attend. In addition, MEA was at the helm during the creation of the teacher evaluation process— ensuring student test scores were not a mandatory part of the evaluation process, but a local decision. At the inception, some lawmakers wanted to create an evaluation tool that would have required test scores make up 20% of the evaluation process. MEA pushed back to help craft an evaluation process that is fair, helps the educator grow, and the student succeed. *Source: http://edex.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/publication/pdfs/20121029-UnionStrength-Full-Report_7_0.pdf June 2018 • www.maineea.org

21

Your Association

INTERNATIONAL DAY

S

tudents at Lewiston High School celebrated diversity through food, song and dance during the annual International Day. In a place where you can hear more than 30 different languages in the halls and 30% of the students are born in other countries, sharing a piece of themselves is one way this school helps students respect and appreciate each other.

"Sometimes I feel there is discrimination.

Some people are ignorant because they don’t know about the culture. This diversity day gives them a chance to learn, and leave with more knowledge than they had before.

Then, they will be a little more accepting."

Asma Omar, Co-President, Celebrate Diversity Club (Photo, top right)

"The rhetoric started to get negative in our hallways. I saw an increase in derogatory remarks, so we wanted to celebrate diversity.

I wanted to do something that brings people together around food, music, dance and other cultural traditions. That’s how you bring people together—through culture."

Patty Mackinnon, LHS teacher/Advisor, Celebrate Diversity Club (Photo, right center) 22

Maine Educator • June 2018

Your Association

"I think we are always looking for ways for students to share who they are as a people, as an identity, and not just understand the life they know. Patty and Erica (see bottom left) have done a ton of work, and it's been great for our school."

Jake Langlais, LHS Principal

"Food is one of the most popular mediums to bring people together. It’s a way to get to know lands and people."

Rosaria Chantrill, Family and Consumer Science teacher (Photo, left) June 2018 • www.maineea.org

23

Your Association

RUNNING & READING

“

I want all my students and clients to have fun!

Work hard and you will get results! I will encourage, motivate and energize everyone to reach their goals.

I will provide a safe and comfortable environment so all students and clients can reach their full potential.”

-Alyssa DiPietro, Saco EA We sat down with to get a better sense as to how she manages and often enhances her teaching through her active lifestyle. Alyssa DiPietro is a Multiage Teacher from Fairfield Elementary School in Saco, Maine. She is also a National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition Specialist.

Alyssa has been in education since 2006, starting in Special Education working in developmental programs and behavior programs. This is her third year as a first and second grade multiage teacher.

Alyssa shared her thoughts about her teaching with the MEA Benefits Trust.

Q1: What inspires you about teaching and personal training?

AD: It is exciting to watch kids grow and learn. I enjoy seeing the lesson(s) I am teaching suddenly “clicks” with the students. I often hear, “now I see why you are teaching me this”. Knowing they are learning and excited about learning, makes my day.

Personal training provides similar satisfaction by helping people to achieve their fitness goals. It’s exciting when your clients see positive changes both physically and mentally.

The ultimate goal is to bring a client to where exercise has become enjoyable and part of their lifestyle.

Q2: Do you find similarities in your teaching students and personal training clients?

AD: Yes, each student and client are motivated by their unique triggers. The challenge is to find those triggers and connect with them so they are best prepared to succeed.

When I can do this, I am able to keep students and clients on task moving towards their goals. Learning and training should be enjoyable and that is a big part of my job to stay positive, upbeat and to have fun while helping my students and clients learn and succeed.

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Maine Educator • June 2018

Q3: How do you balance your time between teaching, training and your own exercise program?

AD: Like most people I have a very busy lifestyle. I am lucky to be able to do the things I am passionate about.

Whether it is teaching or personal training it provides me with a great deal of satisfaction when I can help others achieve their goals. As for finding time to exercise, I make sure to find that time for myself, it serves as a physical and stress reliever.

Q4: What advice would you give to someone just starting an exercise program and who may feel intimidated to exercise at the “gym”?

AD: Reach out to a certified personal trainer, look for free introductory sessions, go with friends, go at a time when the “gym” will be less crowded.

Start small, celebrate small success, set goals. Make it a priority that is non-negotiable.

Q5: Has the Onlife Health program helped you to reach your fitness goals?

AD: I have been doing the Onlife Health program this year and it has kept me motivated to work on my strengths and weaknesses in my daily routines. It is easy to do, and the best part is getting the gift cards! I also participated in the Fall Football Challenge, I was able to earn extra points and was entered to win a $250 gift card!

90

Perspectives

th Representative Assembly May 19 & 20, 2018

During MEA's 90th annual Representative Assembly, MEA members elected new officers. Below are the new slate of officers that will take the lead in July. Here are their thoughts and visions, in just a few words, for the future of the association.

President-elect Grace Leavitt "It is a great privilege to serve as your next MEA President. As the official spokesperson and chief policy officer for the MEA, I will see to it that MEA keeps moving forward, strengthening connections among all of our members and increasing the visibility of our organization, so that all recognize and value, with actions and not mere words, the important work that educators do every day for Maine's students."

Vice President-elect Jesse Hargrove "It is an honor to have been elected to this dynamic leadership team. Together we will find new ways to support students and educators across the state, expand our organizational capacity, and inspire a new generation of leaders. Let's have some fun."

Treasurer-elect Beth French "It is my sincere honor and privilege to serve as your next MEA Treasurer! I’m eager to continue the work of this great organization; to engage and organize our members, to grow membership, and promote the vision of “Unionism For Today” in every workplace, for every member. Thank you for your support and I look forward to our shared advocacy on behalf of MEA members and our students!"

NEA Director Amanda Cooper "I am very much looking forwarding to my second year of work on the NEA Board of Directors! I am also excited and optimistic about the opportunities and support that Grace, Jesse, Beth and I will continue to advocate for, to ensure that ALL Maine students and educators have what they need to reach their fullest potential!"

June 2018 • www.maineea.org

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90

th Representative Assembly May 19 & 20 | Portland Mariott Sable Oaks

Voice in the Profession The MEA held its 90th annual Representative Assembly (RA) on May 18th and 19th. MEA’s RA is the largest democratic body of the association made up of educators elected by their local associations to represent their district. The MEA RA delegates set the course of work for the Association in the upcoming school year, discuss and take positions on key education issues, and elect new leadership.

First-Time Delegates Among the delegates this year were many who had never been to the MEA RA before. Several shared their perspective on why attending is so important.

MEA Award Winners MEA is proud to honor its members, and members of the community who are committed to excellence in education. Below are this year's winners.

Renee Doucette, K-A-K EA "We are in our own association—we get the magazine and the emails but seeing it live is powerful. I'm glad I was able to be part of the process and see all these educators working together to improve instruction and learning with students. "

Anne Sheehan Political Action Award - (Not Pictured) This year’s winner of the MEA’s Anne Sheehan Political Action Award is Susan Feiner, a professor of economics and women and gender studies at the University of Southern Maine.

Jennifer Dorman, SAD 54 EA "The networking has been a positive experience—meeting teachers from across the state who are dealing with things from the profession—there is a lot to be said about this is an experience that can build you up as a professional where there is so much tearing us down. I'll definitely come back!"

Mary Beth Bourgoin, Winslow EA "I’ve been a member since I started, but have never been to the RA. I’m glad I came—seeing how it operates—and how the decisions are made has been a positive experience. It’s something I can bring back to the membership to let them know their concerns are heard and something is being done about it."

Courtney McCann, Quamphegan EA "I always thought there was a mystical person to tell our president things, so demystifying that is a really good thing. It's not as intimidating as a lot of people may think it is—it's a bunch of people sitting in a room talking about issues important to education."

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Maine Educator • June 2018

Human and Civil Rights Award - (Not Pictured This year's winner of the MEA's Human and Civil Rights Award is Ina Demers, an educator at Howard C. Reiche Community School.

FRIEND OF EDUCATION AWARD

Friend of Education Award - Presented to Maine Senator Angus King

CORPORATE AWARD

Corporate Award - The Holocaust and Human Rights Center of Maine, accepting the award is David Greenham

GOLDEN APPLE AWARD

CLYDE RUSSELL SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

Golden Apple Award - Linda MacArthur, Princeton Elementary School

Pictured Left to Right: Meagan Jordan, Abby Soucy, Jordan Daigle and Cole Cerabona

GOLDEN APPLE AWARD

Golden Apple Award - James Ford, Lewiston High School

JOAN MCGOVERN ESP AWARD

T

he Clyde Russell Scholarship Fund was created by the MEA through a trust established by the late Audrey Lewis. It awards graduating seniors monies to help cover tution, room, board, books and fees.

Congratulations to this year's winners!

Cole Cerabona, Kennebunk High School: Cole plans to attend American University in the fall and will to study law and practice as an attorney.

Jordan Daigle, Spruce Mountain High School: Jordan plans to attend Harvard in the fall and aspires to be an environmental engineering student.

Meagan Jordan, Machias Memorial High School: Megan plans to attend Eastern Maine Community College in the fall where she will work toward becoming a Veterinary Technician. Meagan plans to continue her studies at the University of Maine at Augusta.

Joan McGovern ESP Award - Presented to Doreen Armour, Ed Tech at China Middle School.

MEA AWARD FOR TEACHING EXCELLENCE

Abby Soucy, Van Buren District Secondary School: Abby will attend Northern Maine Community College in the fall where she hopes to receive a degree in Early Childhood Education.

Click here to read speeches from outgoing MEA President & Executive director

MEA Award for Teaching Excellence - Dan Ryder, Mt. Blue High School June 2018 • www.maineea.org

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2018 RESOLUTIONS New and amended at the RA 1. New C-30 RESOLVED: That the MEA believes in the development of a comprehensive approach to provide interventions for students before mental health issues emerge as threats to school populations.

2. New C-31 RESOLVED: That the MEA believes all students must attend safe schools to optimize learning. To that end, the MEA believes schools must have adequate funding for security, adequate funding for mental health staff, a weapon free environment, and trained educators who recognize and report student in crisis.

3. New C-32 RESOLVED: That the MEA believes school property and buildings must remain gun-free, with the only exception made for trained law enforcement officers.

Our primary focus as educators must remain the education, safety, and general welfare of students and staff. At no time should parents, students, educators, or others be encouraged, permitted or required to carry firearms on school property.

4. New E-25 RESOLVED: That the MEA believes that all transgender students should be able to use the bathroom or locker room of the gender with which they identify.

5. Amendment of C-21 C21. RESOLVED: That the MEA supports statewide minimum compensation and working conditions for all public education employees including payment of at least a liveable wage to all employees living wage to all employees as determined by the MIT Living Wage Calculator.

(Adopted 2004; Amended 2006; Amended 2018) 2018 NEW BUSINESS ITEMS 1. RESOLVED: That the MEA will support legislation that protects students in schools including but not limited to: increased funding for school security, more restrictive weapons laws, increased funding for mental health professionals, and red flag laws that require professionals to report possible student crises.

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Maine Educator • June 2018

2. RESOLVED: That the Maine Education Association will provide professional development on school climate and culture as they impact teaching, learning and school safety.

3. RESOLVED: That the MEA support legislation that addresses the negative impact on students due to the legislative requirements of the proficiency-based diploma mandate.

4. RESOLVED: That the MEA supports legislation that ensures teacher-led certification committees in all school districts as existed in Chapter 118 of the Rules for the Department of Education.

5. RESOLVED: That the MEA review the policy regarding the use of MEA buildings for committee meetings.

6. RESOLVED: That the MEA investigate participating in social justice events in Maine.

7. RESOLVED: That the MEA investigate as part of every MEA committee meeting providing each committee member with a list of open committee spots identified by (UniServ) district.

8. RESOLVED: That the MEA investigate as part of every conference evaluation survey asking attendees to name three members they will commit to personally inviting to the next conference then follow up with them when the registration for the next conference opens to remind them to invite the members they named.

9. RESOLVED: That the MEA investigate creating email listserv groups for local presidents (for example: districtk-presidents@mea.org) to communicate with each other without being required to disclose their personal email addresses.

10. RESOLVED: That the MEA will investigate the development and implementation of a one-quarter time dues category for MEA members, with a recommendation from the Structure and Bylaws committee presented at the 2019 Representative Assembly.

11. RESOLVED: That the MEA supports Bargaining for the Common Good & Student Centered Advocacy by developing curriculum, providing statewide and regional trainings, committing resources and setting statewide goals.

12. RESOLVED: That the MEA research grant opportunities, professional learning opportunities and resources focused on social and emotional learning.

Such opportunities should be communicated to local association leaders in a timely manner.

13. RESOLVED: That the MEA will work with Maine School Management Association to encourage local school boards to adopt policies that specifically protect the privacy of staff members regarding social media use by students for non-educational purposes.

Christopher Sutherland, Westbrook EA

14. RESOLVED: That the MEA Board of Directors investigate establishing a standing committee devoted to addressing its membership recruitment and engagement needs and consider assigning this task to the Board's Organizing Committee.

15. RESOLVED: That the MEA Government Relations Committee will actively form and promote legislation to grant public service sector workers the right to strike.

2018 STANDING RULES Change

Delegates from Portland EA

STANDING RULE 2, ELECTION PROCEDURES

SECTION 5, Campaigning

B. Definitions 5. Written Material Distribution by a candidate or designee of written and/or printed materials shall constitute a legitimate campaign activity, and actual expenses thus incurred must be reported. All campaign materials must carry an identification of their source and sponsorship (i.e. paid for by the candidate or their committee.)

Janessa Trebouet, Brewer EA June 2018 • www.maineea.org

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Calendar June

Your Association October

August

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Nominations are being accepted for the 2018 Maine Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (MAHPERD) Teacher of the Year awards. Nominations are due by June 30 and completed applications are due by August 21. For more information contact Kristen Allen at kallen@rsu10.org, MAPHERD Awards chairperson, before June 30.

1

13

Computer Science Day

Award Nomination

October

Technology Grants

The Maine Department of Education, Maine State Library, and Project Login are partnering to host Computer Science Day this summer. The event will be at the State House in Augusta from 9-4 and is open to the public. Attendees can join presentations, visit booths with hands-on learning opportunities and learn what resources exist to help educators integrate computer science into their teaching and learning practice.

Grants for Grades K-5 • Do you teach in an elementary school classroom?

• Do you have an innovative idea for improving math or science instruction in your classroom?

• Is your idea project based learning with measurable outcomes?

• What do you need to make learning math and science fun for your students?

K-5 grade teachers are invited to apply online for a $1,000 Toshiba America Foundation grant to help bring an innovative hands-on project into their own classroom.

Application Deadline: Oct. 1

15

Teaching & Learning Grants The NEA Foundation awards grants of up to $5,000 exclusively to NEA members to enhance teaching and learning: • Student Achievement Grants support initiatives that improve academic achievement.

• Learning & Leadership Grants support highquality professional development.

Preference is currently being given to projects that incorporate STEM and/or global learning, as well as projects with leads/partners that are ESPs. FMI and how to apply visit The NEA Foundation's website.

Student Loan Solutions Learn how managing student loan debt can make a difference in educators’ lives Horace Mann offers a suite of solutions that may help educators find ways to remove or reduce monthly student loan payments and redirect any savings to other life goals.

Remove

Forgiveness programs may remove some or all student loan debt

Reduce

Repayment and refinancing options may reduce monthly payments

Redirect

Redirect any savings to help achieve financial goals

To learn more about: Student Loan Solutions Workshops or schedule a one-on-one meeting, contact your local Horace Mann representative. Or, visit horacemann.com/workshops

Lisa Bussiere, Auburn . . . . . . . . . . .207-783-3660 David Case, Bangor . . . . . . . . . . . . .207-941-2121 Joe DeFranco, Ellsworth . . . . . . . . . 207-941-2121 Jeff Delisle, Augusta . . . . . . . . . . . .207-623-5004 Martha Frost, Falmouth . . . . . . . . . .207-797-3019

P.J. Kinney, Presque Isle . . . . . . . . . . . . 207-764-1283 Tony LaPrino, Rockland . . . . . . . . . . . . 207-941-1212 Dominic Vermette, Waterboro . . . . . . . . 207-467-3650 Troy True, Brunswick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207-729-1975 Dominic Vermette, East Waterboro . . . . .207-247-0186 Paul Yarnevich, South Portland . . . . . . . .207-510-6600 Founded by Educators for Educators

Student loan refinancing is provided through an unaffiliated third-party financial services firm. Refinancing a federal student loan will make the borrower ineligible for loan forgiveness programs and could lengthen the repayment period of the loan. The borrower’s overall repayment amount may be higher than the loans they are refinancing even if their monthly payments are lower.

30

Maine Educator • June 2018

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