On The Road With Linda...

ISEA-PAC Central Committee Meets to Take Action on Candidate Recommendations

2008-06-10T12:21:00.017-05:00

On Monday, June 9th members of ISEA-PAC Central Committee met in Des Moines to bring forward candidate recommendations from their local interview teams.

With a few school districts still in session, a majority of the committee came together to discuss individual races and make recommendations to our membership.

The nineteen UniServ Units of Team ISEA have all appointed a team of four members, two (2) Republican and two (2) Democrats, to represent their membership.

The attendance at our June 9th meeting was as follows:

Cedar Wood: 2
DMEA: 2
East Central: 3
Geode: 1
Great River: 2
Hawkeye: 4
JDC: 2
Lincolnway: 2
Mississippi Bend: 1
Mid-Iowa: 3
NEIEU: 4
Northern Pride: 0
Unit Nine: 1
Polk Suburban: 2
South Central: 2
Siouxland: 2
Southwest: 4
Unit Ten: 1
Unit Two: 1

Also in attendance in addition to myself: ISEA Vice President/President-elect, Chris Bern; ISEA Treasurer Paula Logan; NEA Director Jim Young; and ISEA Vice President-elect Tammy Wawro.
ISEA-PAC Central Committee members heard from Team ISEA Lobbyist, Brad Hudson, on a final report of the 2008 Legislative Session before beginning our candidate discussions.

Candidate recommendations were made in all but seven (7) state Senate races and twenty-seven (27) state House races. The body gave authority for an "Emergency Committee" to act upon candidate recommendations in the above mentioned races once the local interview teams complete their interviews.

Members of ISEA-PAC's "Emergency Committee" are:

(D) Chris Bern, ISEA President-elect

(D) Jim Young-NEA Director

(D) Roberta Rosheim, JDC

(D) Kevin Ericson, Mid-Iowa

(R) Roberta Hass, NEIEU

(R) John Morgan, Unit Two

(R) Leslie Dake, Siouxland

(R) Rob Hirst, Hawkeye

Before ISEA-PAC Central Committee members headed towards home, we thanked them for the work they've done thus far with candidate interviews, but also thanked them for their leadership in this fall's campaigns in making a difference in electing/re-electing friends of education!

NEA President to Recommend Sen. Obama in General Election

2008-06-05T09:44:00.002-05:00

WASHINGTON— National Education Association President Reg Weaver announced today that he will ask the 9,000 locally elected delegates to the Association’s Representative Assembly to take a formal vote to recommend that NEA’s 3.2 million members support Barack Obama in his bid to become President of the United States. NEA delegates will hold their annual meeting in Washington, D.C., over the 4th of July holiday.

“Ideally, NEA would have endorsed a candidate during the primaries, but our members were like voters everywhere,” said Weaver. “They were split between Senator Barack Obama and Senator Hillary Clinton. But it’s now apparent that Senator Obama has secured the necessary number of delegates to win the Democratic nomination. With such a clear picture of what Senator Obama will do for public education and his commitment to partner with NEA on issues that affect our members across the country, every public school employee needs to get squarely behind the Obama candidacy.”

Presidential candidates from both the Democratic and Republican parties worked to get the NEA’s recommendation and access to its seasoned army of political member activists.

“Senator Clinton has an outstanding record of support for children and public education,” said Weaver. “As long as she was a viable candidate in the Democratic nomination process, many of our members felt a passionate need to return the loyalty she has earned over decades of support.”

The contrast between Obama and McCain on issues that matter most to NEA members – the economy, education and health care – is indeed stark. Obama opposes using public tax dollars to provide financial support to private schools. McCain is already on record with votes supporting vouchers.

Obama has made it clear that the Bush Administration’s No Child Left Behind law must be changed. McCain has been crossing the country saying he’ll expand the very provisions of NCLB that the nation’s educators cite as its greatest flaws, most especially its one-size-fits-all high-stakes testing provisions.

Obama supports making health care available to every American child. McCain has voted against expansion of existing federal programs designed to provide health care for the nation’s neediest children.

Obama has said repeatedly that, while teachers need to be held accountable for what goes on in the classroom, every teacher deserves a living wage. McCain has called for paying teachers based on student test scores.

Obama supports reducing class size to improve student achievement. McCain has already voted against attempts to reduce class size.

“You can go down any list of what public school employees believe they need to truly help every child be successful, and you’ll see that Senator Obama supports that list and that Senator McCain not only opposes it, but has probably already voted against it,” said Weaver. “There are big and important issues in this campaign, but none is more important to the long-term future of America than public education. And there’s a clear choice in 2008. I will be asking our members to make the right choice for public education and to support Senator Obama.”

Here I am (above) with Senator Obama in July 2007. Senator Obama visited the Iowa delegation at an early morning caucus during the 2007 NEA Representative Assembly in Philadelphia, PA.

Celebrating Memorial Day

2008-05-26T17:43:00.010-05:00

Many people observe this holiday by visiting cemeteries and memorials. A national moment of remembrance takes place at 3 p.m. US Eastern time. Another tradition is to fly the U.S.Flag at half-staff from dawn until noon local time. Volunteers usually place an American flag upon each grave site located in a National Cemetery.

Memorial Day formerly occurred on May 30, and some, such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars(VFW) and Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW), advocate returning to this fixed date, although the significance of the date is tenuous. The VFW stated in a 2002 Memorial Day Address, "Changing the date merely to create three-day weekends has undermined the very meaning of the day

Following the end of the Civil War, many communities set aside a day to mark the end of the war or as a memorial to those who had died. These observances eventually coalesced around Decoration Day, honoring the Union dead, and the several Confederate Memorial Days.

The official birthplace of Memorial Day is Waterloo, New York. The village was credited with being the birthplace because it observed the day on May 5, 1866, and each year thereafter, and because it is likely that the friendship of General John Murray, a distinguished citizen of Waterloo, and General John A. Logan, who led the call for the day to be observed each year and helped spread the event nationwide, was a key factor in its growth.

Many of the states of the U.S. South refused to celebrate Decoration Day, due to lingering hostility towards the Union Army and also because there were very few veterans of the Union Army who lived in the South. A notable exception was Columbus, Mississippi, which on April 25, 1866 at its Decoration Day commemorated both the Union and Confederate casualties buried in its cemetery.

The alternative name of "Memorial Day" was first used in 1881, but did not become more common until after World War II, and was not declared the official name by Federal law until 1967 . On June 28, 1968, the United States Congress passed the Uniform Holidays Bill, which moved three holidays from their traditional dates to a specified Monday in order to create a convenient three-day weekend and for the first time recognized Columbus Day as a federal holiday. The holidays included Washington's Birthday (which evolved into Presidents' Day), Veterans Day, and Memorial Day. The change moved Memorial Day from its traditional May 30 date to the last Monday in May. The law took effect at the federal level in 1971 . After some initial confusion and unwillingness to comply at the state level, all fifty states adopted the measure within a few years, although Veterans Day was eventually changed back to its traditional date. Ironically, most corporate businesses no longer close on Columbus Day or Veterans Day, and an increasing number are staying open on President's Day as well. Memorial Day, however, has endured as one holiday during which most businesses stay closed because it marks the beginning of the "summer vacation season," as does neighboring Canada's Victoria Day, which occurs on the prior Monday.

Are You a Smart Driver?

2008-05-22T10:34:00.003-05:00

Think you're smarter than the average driver?

When's the last time you took a written drivers test? When you were 16? How do you think you'd score if you took it again today?

Take the GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test and see if you pass with flying colors, or if you could use a little brushing up.

http://money.aol.com/insurance/auto/smart-driver-quiz?icid=100214839x1202644587x1200107303

Peace Corps Volunteer Shares Experience With Students

2008-05-21T10:04:00.007-05:00

One of my childhood friends from Lincoln, Nebraska joined the Peace Corps one year ago. Cindy Swanson sold her business and her home and put things in storage in the summer of 2007 to travel half-way around the world to serve as a Peace Corps volunteer. One of the componets to her service was having a connection to school children in the United States. I introduced her to Erin Jones, a 4th grade teacher at Carter Lake Elementary (a part of the Council Bluffs Community School District) and they have been emailing ever since.

On Monday, May 19th, I joined Cindy in a visit to Carter Lake Elementary and to the 4th grade classroom of Erin Jones.

The children were excited to meet Cindy and put a face on the person they have been emailing this school year. The students had done their "homework" and did additional background searches on the county of Azerbaijan where Cindy is serving.

Cindy shared photos of the community and countryside of Azerbaijan as she spoke of the work she does with World Vision. We got a glimpse of her apartment as well as some of the other Peace Corps volunteers and the many Azeri people she's met. The students were full of questions and our time in Erin's room flew by!

Next school year when I return to Carter Lake Elementary as a teacher, I will pull together these students (who will move on to 5th grade in various classrooms) at lunch time or after school to keep our connection to Cindy and her work as a Peace Corps volunteer.

Cindy's service in Azerbaijan will be complete in September 2009. She is already looking ahead to possibly continuing her Peace Corps service in yet another country. Cindy, we are so proud of you!

Opportunity to Serve Nearing an End

2008-05-21T09:49:00.002-05:00

My last ISEA Executive Board meeting serving as president was the weekend of May 9-10, 2008. At our August 2007 board meeting, the newly elected board members honored me with a crown and scepter. For the beginning of my last board meeting, I donned the gear one last time.

Each leader serves in this position with their own vision of how the job needs to be done. I promised members I would put a face on who we are as ISEA and listen to their concerns. Four years later I can say I have visited over 400 Iowa communities and thousands of classrooms, to bus barns, school cafeterias, Area Education Agency offices, and our great Community College campuses.

Thanks Team ISEA for the opporunity to serve as your president. Thank you for all you continue to do for Iowa students!

Governor Culver Vetoes Collective Bargaining Bill

2008-05-14T17:32:00.002-05:00

Iowa Governor Chet Culver announced in a news conference late this afternoon that he will veto HF 2645, a bill which would have expanded the scope of collective bargaining for educators and other public employees.

Statement by ISEA President Linda Nelson on Governor Culver's veto of HF2645
We are deeply disappointed by Gov. Culver's veto of HF 2645. This legislation would have leveled the playing field for educators and other public employees at the bargaining table. It would have allowed us to negotiate over issues that impact student achievement like class size, preparation time, in-service, and a whole host of other topics that under the current law are deemed "permissive" and off-limits for discussion. While we appreciate the Governor's support for funding public schools and for making teacher salaries competitive, he missed a great opportunity to recognize educators as true professionals and full partners in educational decision making. We are committed to working with Gov. Culver Culver to craft a bill which accomplishes that objective.

Lincolnway UniServ Unit Hosts Annual "Friends of Education" Recognition Dinner

2008-05-07T11:16:00.079-05:00

For just my second time in four years I was available to attend Lincolnway UniServ Unit's annual "Friends of Education" Dinner in Carroll last night. The weather was threatening with thundershowers, but inside the mood was festive!

The Lincolnway UniServ Unit Executive Board met for a short board meeting beginning at 6:00 p.m. at the Carrollton Inn prior to the Friend of Education Dinner.

Over 60 guests attended this annual Lincolnway event. We were entertained by a solo vocalist, Nick Andersen, of Lawton-Bronson followed by the Ogden High School Jazz Band, directed by Ogden EA member Jeff Robilliard. Wow, such talented young people led by great educators!

The following were recognized as:

Lincolnway UniServ Unit's

2008 Friends of Education

Ar-We-Va

Nancy Ertz

Audubon

Lions Club of Audubon

Battle Creek-Ida Grove

Donna Miller

Carroll

Carol Gronstal

Bill Fish

John Bernholtz

Carroll Education Support Professionals

Joanne Vogel

Coon Rapids- Bayard

Faye Seidl

Denison

Jim Harms

Glidden-Ralston

John and Cindi Van Horn

I-K-M

Steve Vollstedt

Lawton-Bronson

Roxanne Peters

Kara Thompson

Logan-Magnolia

Cheryl Greenwood

Manning

Crista Miller

Ogden

Judy and Charlie Swanson

Sac City

Sue Ricke

Wall Lake View Auburn

Carol Scott

Westwood

Kathy Belvin

Woodbine

Deb Sprecker

Congratulations to all 2008 Friends of Education! Thank you for all you do for Iowa students!

Before heading back to Des Moines, I had the chance to pose for a photo with our great Lincolnway Team ISEA staff. Pictured (from left to right) Lincolnway's great Administrative Assistant, Linda Sporrer; Peri Van Tassel, UniServ Director in both Lincolnway and Polk Suburban; myself; and Myron Halverson, Lincolnway UniServ Director. This is terrific team that work their hearts out for Team ISEA members in Lincolnway UniServ Unit. How lucky we are to have them on Team ISEA!

Polk Suburban UniServ Unit Holds Annual Recognition Dinner

2008-05-07T10:32:00.009-05:00

On Monday, May 5th, Team ISEA members from Polk Suburban UniServ Unit held their annual Recognition Dinner at Traditions Restaurant in Ankeny.

Leaders from across the UniServ Unit gathered early to enjoy the social time with colleagues from other school districts.

We were treated to musical entertainment by Wagner and Walter Caldas, 22 year old twin brothers from the community of Grota do Surucucu, an impoverished neighborhood located on the outskirts of Rio de Janerio, Brazil. Wagner and Walter were introduced to Team ISEA member Gilmara Mitchell and her husband Martin in October 2006 and with the connecting of many prominent individuals, Wagner and Walter are now students at the University of Northern Iowa in the School of Music.

For the second year in a row PSUU holds the honor of having one of their own leaders be named Iowa Teacher of the Year! This evening we heard from our 2008 Iowa Teacher of the Year, Andy Mogle, of the Norwalk Professional Education Association.

PSUU recognized local associations for: 1) largest percentage of membership increase; 2) largest numerical membership increase; 3) locals meeting/exceeding bargaining goals; 4) ISEA/PSUU Five Star Locals. Congratulations to all for the fine work you do on behalf of the association!

All Team ISEA members gathered were treated to an extra special keynote speaker this evening too. Team NEA's Vice President (and President-elect) Dennis Van Roekel. Dennis gave an inspiring message that gave us all a boost to continue the great work that Polk Suburban UniServ members do every day.

Pictured (above, left to right) NEA Vice President Dennis Van Roekel; Jan Reinicke, ISEA Executive Director; and Randy Richardson, ISEA Associate Executive Director for Field Services.

Tell Candidates for President What YOU Think!

2008-05-03T07:06:00.008-05:00

NEA's "EducationVotes" Web site is up and running. All three remaining candidates for President are U.S. Senators.

Check out their:

** Voting records in Congress.
** Grades on NEA's congressional report card.
** Positions on education and other important issues.

Check out all three candidates at www.nea.org/educationvotes/index.html

After a Full Day of Work, Time to Relax

2008-05-01T20:53:00.006-05:00

After a full day of legislative briefings, NEA-PAC Council meeting, meeting with members of Congress and their staff, and topping it off with a two-hour NEA Midwest Regional meeting, it is out for dinner with friends.

A long-standing tradition for Team ISEA-NEA Directors is to enjoy a meal in the evening with NEA Directors from Indiana. This tradition has stretched over the years as new NEA Directors transition in and retiring directors leave the NEA Board of Directors. Retiring from our postions this year are myself (third in from left) and Rick Wright (right/end). The time we take to build these relationships in invaluable as we share initiatives from our states as well as tell of successess that take place in our educational workplace.

Good luck, Rick and thanks Team ISTA for your continued friendships over the years!

Visits to Capitol Hill Today

2008-05-01T20:28:00.008-05:00

At 8:00 a.m. sharp this morning, Team NEA Directors from across the nation gathered at the NEA building for a legislative briefing from our Team NEA lobbyists. Most state presidents attend as well.

I joined Team ISEA-NEA Directors from Iowa, Jim Young of Cedar Falls and Kathy Williams of Davenport to hear about issues that are pending Congressional action.

Following the legislative briefing, all NEA state affiliate presidents participate in the NEA-Political Action (PAC) Council meeting. Our meeting began at 9:30 a.m. and concluded around 11:30 a.m. I joined NEA Directors Jim and Kathy at mid-point in their Congressional office visits.

NEA Directors Jim Young and Kathy Williams had appointments this morning with U.S. Senator Tom Harkin, U. S. Senator Charles Grassley, and Congressman Steve King before I joined up with them at the Longworth House Office Building for the final three appointments.

Pictured above (from left to right) are NEA Director Kathy Williams; U.S. Congressman Leonard Boswell, IA-CD 3; NEA Director Jim Young, and myself. We next visited U.S. Congressman Bruce Braley's office (IA-CD 1) where we met with Rob, Cong. Braley's education staffer. Here (above) I'm pictured with Cong. Braley's Chief of Staff Sarah Benzing, who is originally from Underwood, IA. I've known Sarah and her parents (both life-long teachers) for many years. Our finaly Congressional office visit took us to see U.S. Congressman Dave Loebsack (IA-CD 2). Pictured above (from left to right) are myself, Congressman Dave Loebsack, Kathy Williams, and Jim Young.

Team ISEA has much to be proud of for the great work our two NEA Directors do on our behalf. For a number of years our directors have appointments to meet with 6 and sometimes all 7 of our Members of Congress. Thanks, Jim and Kathy for your terrific work!

Summit on State 21st Century Skills Initiatives

2008-05-01T20:17:00.003-05:00

On Wednesday, April 30th, Team ISEA Executive Director Jan Reinicke and I participated in a day long meeting at the NEA building with other state affiliates that have created partnerships with their state's Department of Education (and Chief School Officer), Governor, state education association, and business/corporate partners.

We heard from our colleagues in Wisconsin and West Virginia who have worked on building these partnerships within their states.

We had the opportunity to have table discussions around the possibilities, questions and concerns, does this fit our overall education vision/agenda?

One of my great friends that participated today was Donna DeKraii, president of the South Dakota Education Association (pictured here with me).

NEA GOP NEWS BRIEF

2008-05-01T11:22:00.017-05:00

Regional Conferences – National Success

Over the past three months, NEA has held a series of Regional Leadership Conferences across the country, culminating with the ESP Conference in Baltimore in early March. At each conference, NEA Government Relations staff either spoke at or made materials available for NEA Republicans during special meetings of the Republican Educators Caucus or in other venues. At the Midwest Regional Conference in Minneapolis, and the Pacific Regional Conference in Boise, Republicans and non-Republicans alike heard from senior Republican political consultants Matt Keelen of the Keelen Group and Bob Carpenter of American Viewpoint. They discussed the political landscape in Washington, D.C., and ways Republican NEA members can be proactive about becoming involved in the political process.

One result of these meetings has been impressive growth in the number of NEA members who will be receiving this newsletter, an expression of interest in our activities to reach Republican members and help them become involved in the Republican Party.

If this is your first issue, welcome! Please spread the word!

Reminder – "How to Become Involved in the Republican Party" Available on CD or by Email

NEA has published a manual to encourage greater involvement by NEA members in the Republican Party, "How to Become Involved in the Republican Party." The manual was distributed at NEA's first Republican Leaders Conference as well as at the Regional Leadership Conferences over the past three months. Each manual is specific to state laws and party rules, and includes resources regarding the political process in each state at each level from county and district chair to state party chair. This is great background information to help NEA Republican members navigate the political organizations in their states.

If you would like a copy of this manual, please email Erin Duncan at NEA Government Relations at eduncan@nea.org or call Erin at (202) 822-7394.

GOP National Convention – Join the Fun in the Twin Cities!

Where is the hottest place to be over Labor Day weekend? If you're one of the nearly 45,000 people planning to descend on Minneapolis-St. Paul – not to mention the eyes of the world's media – the answer is the Republican National Convention!

While the Republican primaries conclude and Sen. John McCain solidifies his likely nomination to the presidency on the Republican ticket, Republican National Convention planners are gearing up for what promises to be a fascinating, fun, and historic occasion in the Twin Cities. The convention will officially start on Labor Day, Monday, September 1, and last until Thursday, September 4, 2008. The convention itself will take place in the beautiful Xcel Energy Center in downtown St. Paul, with other events related to the convention taking place at other locations throughout the Twin Cities.

Who will be at the convention?

The numbers are impressive: 2,000 delegates, 2,000 alternates, 15,000 members of the media from all over the world, and 25,000 observers and volunteers. We hope to see many NEA members there, too. If you are running for or have been elected a delegate to the Republican National Convention, please let us know by contacting Erin Duncan at eduncan@nea.org. NEA offers a travel and lodging stipend for member delegates and alternates. Information about the stipend can be found at www.nea.org/lac/conventionstipends.html. We have a number of special events planned for our delegates and friends and want to be in contact with you prior to the convention.

Regular updates about the convention can be found at www.gopconvention.com.

Not a delegate, but want to get involved?

Also important to the success of the convention will be the use of motivated and energetic volunteers. According to convention organizers, volunteers will be needed to help with logistics, transportation, and other key aspects of hosting such a major event. To learn more about volunteer opportunities at the Republican National Convention go to: http://msp2008.com/volunteer.php.

Save the Date for NEA Republican Leaders Conference II
NEA is in the process of planning the NEA Republican Leaders Conference II for August 27-30, 2008, the days immediately preceding the Republican National Convention in Minneapolis-St. Paul. The NEA conference will take place at the Millennium Hotel, located on Nicollet Mall in the heart of Minneapolis. Building on the success of the first NEA Republican Leaders Conference in August 2007, we hope to enhance NEA Republican outreach efforts by providing advanced training to selected Republican NEA members.

NEA will pay for travel, hotel, and meals for up to four Republican NEA members for each state. These participants will be nominated by their state presidents.

The NEA Republican Leaders Conference II will feature two days of panel presentations and workshops for Republican members. We expect panels to include Republican NEA members active in the Republican party at all levels, as well as other party activists and political consultants. Topics will include online activism, grassroots organizing, volunteer strategy, press relations, communications, and messaging. We expect many Republican local, state, and national officeholders and party officials to be in the Twin Cities the week before the Republican National Convention and we expect to draw upon their expertise as well.

The goal of the conference will be to help NEA attendees conduct effective Republican outreach in their states, including preparing them to organize fellow NEA Republican members. Following the conference, we will ask attendees to help recruit NEA Republican members from their states to become party activists, run for office, or take other leadership roles.

We are looking forward to seeing you at a wonderful NEA Republican Leaders Conference II in Minneapolis!

Florida, Florida, Florida!
Florida has always been a pivotal state in politics – from Tim Russert's whiteboard analysis during the 2000 presidential election to the current controversy regarding Florida's delegates. The state's diversity and importance makes the efforts of its Republican educators all the more critical to advancing the public school agenda. After the first NEA Republican Leaders Conference, Sandra Ross and Linda Francis, two participants from Florida, went home loaded with ideas and energy to get involved in Florida politics and advance public education's agenda within the Republican Party.

The work began almost immediately. Linda Francis filled out an application to become a precinct committeewoman. After a lively debate within her county's Republican Executive Committee, Linda was elected to the Marion County, Fla. Republican Executive Committee. Since then, Linda has been asked to join the statewide African American Republican Leadership Council; she is also working on becoming a delegate to the Republican National Convention. In addition, she is involved in minority outreach and recruitment in Marion County. She is also working on forming a Republican Educator's Club that will be affiliated with the Marion County Republican Executive Committee. Linda says that she believes the club has great potential — more than 600 of the nearly 1,800 teachers in the greater Ocala area self-identify as Republicans.

Sandra Ross has also been very active in her work to raise the profile of Republican educators in Florida. She has become a precinct committee woman for the Orange County Republican Executive Committee and is in the process of starting a Republican Educator's Club through the County Executive Committee. Sandra was interviewed on television and identified as an NEA member during a debate among Republican candidates for president. In addition, she has been asked to serve on the Education Advisory Council for U.S. Rep. Tom Feeney and is helping Republican candidates for the state legislature to build their education platforms. Sandra says, "I am currently trying to meet with as many candidates for office as I can so that I can help make a connection with them now, in hopes that when they get in their desired position, we have a friend in office." Sandra applied to become an alternate delegate to the Republican National Convention and is awaiting that decision.

Both Linda and Sandra represent the focus, hard work, and leadership that NEA's first group of Republican Leaders has demonstrated over the past year. We'll highlight the activities of other NEA Republican Leaders in future issues of this newsletter.

Bipartisan Efforts Produce Pro- Public Education Results in Wisconsin Working in a bipartisan fashion is an important quality for many of NEA's affiliates. This month, we highlight one affiliate that has taken bipartisan advocacy in a highly productive direction. To facilitate conversation with its congressional delegation, the NEA-Wisconsin Education Association Council (NEA-WEAC) created Federal Advocacy Teams. One such team, working in the 6th Congressional District of Wisconsin with U.S. Rep. Tom Petri, has successfully worked to open the lines of communication between the member of Congress and NEA-WEAC.

Made up of NEA-WEAC members from the Congressman's district, the Federal Advocacy Team meets with the congressman on a quarterly basis. NEA-WEAC began the relationship by meeting with the congressman's staff in Wisconsin, explaining how the Federal Advocacy Team would work to support and educate Congressman Petri on education issues that are important to NEA-WEAC's members. "It's about building the relationship with the congressman," says Bob Fullmer, a Federal Advocacy Team member. "We've been doing it about three years, and Congressman Petri has been very tenacious on some of our issues. [In some cases] He's stepped up when no one else would."

In addition to meeting regularly to share issues and insights, stressing NEA's political agenda as it impacts public schools in the 6th Congressional District, the Federal Advocacy Team helps organize school visits for the congressman. Congressman Petri has done two major school visits as well as one large listening session with teachers, administrators, state officials, and NEA representatives testifying. He has also had his staff organize other school visits with NEA-WEAC's encouragement. Each school visit is staffed by a NEA-WEAC photographer and journalist. After each visit, NEA-WEAC creates a mailer to publicize the congressman's visit and sends it to all 11,000 members of NEA-WEAC in the congressman's district. "These school visits allow him to see programs and problems schools may be having," Bob says. In some cases, the school visits have resulted in legislation.

Putting together the Federal Advocacy Team has allowed NEA-WEAC to activate its rank-and-file members who have participated in local politics, but who were perhaps not in local leadership. To do so, NEA-WEAC conducted a database check of its members and picked out about 20 people who looked moderately active politically. From that list, approximately seven or eight people committed to being involved. These people were put through a training program on lobbying and did homework to become well-informed on federal education issues. The Federal Advocacy Team coordinates directly with NEA Government Relations. In addition, team members were encouraged to meet with local administrators to continue to build understanding of federal education issues. Members of the team report to the UniServ on local meetings and keep them informed about advocacy efforts.

While the bulk of the Federal Advocacy Team's activities are in the congressional district, team members have been sent to Washington to meet with the congressman and share NEA-WEAC's position when a crucial vote is looming. "We always get in to see the congressman," states Fullmer, "because he knows our members from the visits in the district."

Meeting on a regular basis with the Federal Advocacy Team has been a terrific way to open two-way bipartisan communication. It has helped Congressman Petri to see first-hand how federal programs are operating in his congressional district and it has helped members of NEA-WEAC get to know a member of Congress on a first-name basis.

"The message of the Federal Advocacy Team is that if you step up for education, we will step up for you," says Fullmer.

How Candidate Recommendations Are Decided
Every two years, the NEA's PAC, the Fund for Children and Public Education (the Fund), recommends (endorses) about 300 candidates for Congress. Ideally, decisions about which candidates to support not only reward past support of public education, but also encourage successful candidates to support public education more frequently in the future. Candidate recommendations are a critically important lobbying tool for Association activists.

The process by which congressional candidate recommendations are decided is relatively simple: state affiliate leaders and activists initially evaluate candidates and their education views, then decide which candidates should be recommended. NEA's fund — governed by a 68-member council comprised primarily of the 50 state affiliate presidents or their designees — ratifies those decisions before deciding the level or type of support to offer each candidate.

State affiliate decisions about candidate recommendations usually reflect at least two considerations: the candidate's views and votes on key education and employee issues, and the candidate's overall relationship with the Association.

To help members assess a candidate's views, the Fund Council approves every two years a written Congressional Candidate Questionnaire, which asks candidates to express agreement or disagreement on about 20 federal issues. In recent years the questionnaire has focused on core education and employee issues in order to open our recommendation process to Republican candidates.

NEA Government Relations also prepares annually a Legislative Report Card which grades each member of Congress' education record based on their votes, bill co-sponsorships, committee work, behind-the-scenes advocacy, and their accessibility to educators both in Washington and back home.

For many Republican candidates, having a strong relationship with Association leaders and members can make a difference. Republican activists play an important role in this – they help build connections key to congressional lobbying efforts.

By developing stronger working ties to interested Republican candidates, you can persuade them to share our views on key issues, help them build relationships with NEA members and key Association leaders, and help steer them through a recommendation process that pro-public education Republicans otherwise might choose to avoid. This work is particularly important in Republican districts and states, and in instances where competitive two-party elections occur.

For more information on NEA's candidate recommendation procedures, contact your state affiliate's Government Relations Department or chief NEA lobbyist Randall Moody at rmoody@nea.org.

Kansas Traditional Republican Majority: Creating a Pro-Public Education Majority One Step at a Time "A vote is a vote" says Ryan Wright, executive director of Kansas' Traditional Republican Majority (KTRM), summarizing how pro-public education Republicans in Kansas have successfully worked to create a pro-public education majority within the majority in Kansas state government.

Created in 2005, KTRM, a state affiliate of the NEA-supported Republican Mainstreet Partnership, has facilitated the formation of a strong centrist Republican majority within the majority, based on the traditional Republican values of strong public education, limited government, and lower taxes. One of the first goals of the organization was to work with its partners to change the composition of the Kansas State Board of Education, which infamously voted to mandate teaching creationism as an alternative to evolution in Kansas public schools.

Working with partners like the Kansas NEA, as well as with the business community and other leadership organizations, KTRM helped identify and support candidates who would promote a more balanced education position. The result was a successful change in the State Board of Education.

KTRM worked first to identify its potential legislative partners by looking at voting records and connecting with incumbent members of the Kansas legislature, encouraging them to work together on issues of shared interest. "Our legislators do fantastic work," Ryan says. "Our role is to make sure they have the information they need to make their decision about what would be best for their districts."

"Kansas is truly a three-party system," Ryan explains. "The Republicans hold 30 seats in the 40-seat Kansas Senate. Of those, approximately 16 are members who identify with our values." Together with others who share these values, these core members have tremendous influence in the outcome of the legislative process. "If we have a litmus test at all," Ryan adds, "it's being pro-public education. We are unwilling to waver on that point.

"In an overwhelmingly Republican state like Kansas, KTRM strives to identify state races where a pro-public education candidate has the potential to win. In addition, KTRM works to help its incumbent members protect their seats against attacks from the far right. Last year, KTRM raised approximately $315,000 total, and was able to increase its membership in the Kansas Statehouse by five members. "We take a realistic, practical approach," Ryan says. "People still want to be governed by Republican Party principles. A handful of very passionate people can keep moving the pro-public education ball down the court. No one wants a failing school in their backyard."

Ryan sees organizations like KTRM as being key to helping the Republican Party move toward the future. "In the last election cycle, conservatives liked to brag that the reason Republicans lost was that conservatives didn't turn out and that Congress had lost sight of conservative principles. This is a myth. The exit polls in 2006 show that Republicans did turn out.

Republicans are not winning because we are not appealing to a broad audience," Ryan says. He believes that groups like KTRM offer a model for working within the Republican party and providing independents, moderates, and nonaffiliated voters a reason to vote Republican. "We have to engage younger votes," he says. "Education is an issue that's very important to them."

To learn more about Kansas Traditional Republican Majority, go to http://www.ktrm.org/.

Take Me Out to the Ballgame!

2008-04-30T21:14:00.019-05:00

On Tuesday evening, April 29th after a full day of training for the outgoing NEA state presidents, I headed out to the ballpark with fellow midwest regional president from Illinois, Ken Swanson.

This is the inaugural year for the Washington Nationals in the ballpark here in Washington, D.C. Tuesday evening's game had the Nats pitted against the Atlanta Braves.

It was a crisp spring evening and the ballpark filled nearly to capacity. After hotdogs, nachos and beverages, the ballgame was underway.

One of my favorite things about taking in a new ballpark is seeing the team mascots. In the 5th inning four mascots appeared--the four U.S. Presidents that are on Mt. Rushmore! They raced around the infield to the amusement of all gathered!

Then to top it all off, at the top of the 8th inning--over the loud speaker they play "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond! Gee, I thought I was in Fenway Park (or maybe heaven)!

By the way, the Nationals won 6-3. The Nationals have won five out of their past seven games to improve to 10-17.

A Special Stop Here in Washington, D.C.

2008-04-30T16:22:00.008-05:00

Today before Team ISEA Executive Director Jan Reinicke and I headed to a day-long meeting at the NEA building here in Washington, D.C., we were able to participate in United States Senator Tom Harkin's weekly constituent breakfast at one of ths U.S. Senate office buildings. U.S. Senator Harkin has always been considered a "friend of education" with his advocacy for students and their families and can back it up with his 100% voting record with Team NEA. Here Team ISEA Executive Director Jan Reinicke (on left) and myself are pictured with Iowa's and NEA's friend of education, U.S. Senator Tom Harkin.

Today, one last friend I had the chance to say "good-bye" to was one of U.S. Senator Harkin's great education staff person's, Rob Baron. Rob has been extra special to work with as he's always accessible to Team ISEA for calls from Iowa or when our NEA Directors are in Washington, D.C. to call upon the senator. Thank you Rob for your partnership in working with Team ISEA and Team NEA!

Team NEA Provides Training for Outgoing (Nearly Dead) Presidents

2008-04-30T16:04:00.005-05:00

In February and again here in April, Team NEA provided the opportunity for two (2) all-day trainings for outgoing (or some teasingly say--nearly dead) state presidents. For many, they have come up through the ranks of their state organization and served 4-6 years as state president. These state leaders are to the point in their careers they still have much to contribute to the association and public education as their term(s) as state presidents come to an end.

For me, my two terms as Team ISEA president will come to an end on June 14, 2008. While it has been a magnificent opportunity to meet members in their worksite and put a face on Team ISEA, it will be time for me to step aside and allow our newly elected leadership team to lead.

Participating in the two training dates in Washington, D.C. are some terrific friends and mighty fine Team NEA leaders who are also leaving office (left to right): myself; Donna DeKraii, president of the South Dakota Education Association; Donna New Haschke, president of the Texas State Teachers Association; Bill Bjork, president of NEA-Alaska; and Roy Bishop (completes his terms 7/09), president of the Oklahoma Education Association. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve alongside these great state leaders!

39th Annual Iowa Alpha Delta Kappa Convention

2008-04-27T17:59:00.024-05:00

On Saturday, April 26th I ventured to Pella, IA for the annual Iowa Alpha Delta Kappa Convention to share my story of serving as ISEA's state president. Alpha Delta Kappa is an honorary Teacher's Sorority; I am a member of Alpha Iota chapter in Council Bluffs.

The convention was held at Graham Conference Center on the campus of Central College in Pella, Iowa. Twenty-six Iowa chapters were represented by 63 delegates at today's convention.

Beverly Fletcher (at left) state president and a member of Alpha Iota chapter, presided over today's convention. The convention received greetings from ADK International as well as from a welcome from Central College.

Presentations were made to Lions Foundation and to the student recipient of Iowa's ADK scholarship.

Dr. Kris Kilibarda (at right) an instructor at Central College and a member of Alpha Iota chapter provided the "welcome" from Central College and made my introduction.

At the break following my remarks, I had many ADK member/delegates share with me their involvement in their local education association. ADK members are also EA leaders in Cedar Rapids, Mason City, New Hampton, Charles City and Boone--to name a few! It should not have surprised me, it sure brought home what we always say, "Team ISEA". We are indeed a team!

Alpha Iota Chapter Members in attendance

Alpha Iota chapter members in attendance (from Council Bluffs); left to right--Jeanette Watson, Alpha Iota president; Marge Kilibarda, state Treasurer; Kris Kilibarda, state convention co-chair; Beverly Fletcher, state president; Linda Cooper, state convention co-chair; and me.

Final Stop on the SWUU Tour Winds Into Shenandoah

2008-04-27T15:40:00.020-05:00

Team ISEA leader and Chair of the ISEA ESP standing committee, Toni Graham, made all the arrangements for my Thursday afternoon, April 24th visit to the Shenandoah Community School District.

Toni Graham (pictured at right) is a support staff person working with technology here in Shenandoah and is past president of the Shenandoah Support Associates (SSA) and current Chief Negotiator for her local.

The entire K-8 staff was treated to a delicious luncheon provided by the PTA for Staff Appreciation Day. Boy did I luck out on the day to visit, what a delicious treat for all!

Following lunch, Toni and I headed to the Life Skills program facility. We were greeted by teacher John Hallman who gave me a guided tour of the facility and described their program. Pictured at left is teacher associate, Marsha Stribling, with some of the students in the program. The group had just finished cleaning up after the lunch they made. John and Marsha make a dynamic team in providing a varied program to prepare students for their years beyond school.

Toni and I were next off to the Administration Building. Here the Pre-School program is housed and we had the chance to observe the children wiggling and jiggling as they danced and sang a familiar tune. I had the chance to read aloud a book selected by teacher Christine. The pre-schoolers are pictured (at right) with their teacher. Toni and I stopped in the Superintendent's office so I could introduce myself too.

We were next off to Shenandoah High School. Here we had the chance to meet many of the high school teachers in the school gym as they were conducting registration for next school year. Teachers were set at tables around the perimeter of the gym by curriculum area. Each teacher had sheets in front of them labeled for each class they would be leading in the fall. Student's (and we observed the incoming 10th grade) names were called out and they sat in order on the bleachers to await their turn to sign up. Those with the best attendance were the first in line! It was the first time they had tried this method of registration. It sure looked like it was working to me!

Our Shenandoah visit returned to the Elementary/Middle School building. In the elementary, I found myself in the 1st grade classroom of 20 year Shenandoah EA leader, Mrs. Marcia Johnson (on the left with her homeroom). I read aloud the book The Relatives Came, by Cynthia Rylant. Mrs. Johnson then had students as a group recite a number of poems from their personal poetry collection books. My favorite was when they sang the "Shenandoah Fight Song"!

At the end of their day of instruction, staff joined us in the lounge for cookies, iced tea and conversation. Here are just a few of the three dozen folks that stopped by to greet us.

Anne Travis (above-bottom/right) joined us for a few minutes before heading back to her classroom. Anne is SWUU's representative on the ISEA Executive Board and a Talented and Gifted teacher here in Shenandoah.

Thanks Toni Graham for the great afternoon in Shenandoah! Thanks to all Shenadoah leaders on Team ISEA! It was great to see you all again! Thanks for all you do every day for Iowa's students!

SWUU Tour Begins to Wrap Up With A Visit to Clarinda EA

2008-04-27T13:17:00.027-05:00

My final day, Thursday, April 24th of my Southwest UniServ Unit Tour began in the community of Clarinda. My day began at Garfield School, the K-8 Center for the Clarinda Community School District.

I first connected with Southwest UniServ Unit leader and Clarinda EA president, Sharon McAlpin (at left). Sharon is a Vocal Music teacher here. Sharon made arrangements for my visit today. How lucky we are to have Sharon as a leader on Team ISEA!

Eighth grader Sydney R. served as my tour guide of the Middle School portion of the building. She shared with me how not only is she involved in academics, the arts, and athletics, but she's involved in church and her community. I can see why Sydney was chosen as my guide--what a great leader!

Chris Campbell (at left) Chief Negotiator for the Clarinda EA and computer/technology teacher gave me a tour of the elementary portion of the Garfield Center. Thanks for your leadership, Chris, on Team ISEA!

In the school Media Center I was able to read aloud to a group of Kindergarten students. They are pictured (at right) with teacher/librarian Julie Cabeen.

Next, I observed teacher/librarian Julie Cabeen lead 3rd graders in a lesson using reference materials in the school Media Center.

My final classroom visit in Clarinda was in the 4th grade homeroom of Mrs. Diane Campbell. I read aloud the Chris Van Allsburg book Probuditi! The students were a great audience and enjoyed the read aloud. And as all students, they loved the mood pencils from Team ISEA!

Thank you Clarinda EA leaders and staff for your hospitality. You are providing terrific opportunities for all your students. Thanks for all you do!

Getting Roasted and Toasted Back Home in Southwest UniServ Unit

2008-04-27T11:54:00.018-05:00

Wednesday evening, April 23rd, I thought I was to briefly address the SWUU Rep Council in Red Oak, only to discover....it was me that was to get "roasted" and "toasted" by my best pals--the SWUU leaders!

Some 65 leaders from all over southwest Iowa gathered at the Red Coach Inn in Red Oak for the annual Southwest UniServ Unit Rep Council. New leaders would be elected, local membership chairs and negotiations teams would be given their due recognition, and oh yes...they would give recognition to me--one of their own for my 4 years as ISEA president.

Tom McLaughlin (at left) Southwest UniServ Unit president and Lewis Central High School Speech and Drama teacher, led the evening meeting. Tom McLaughlin and Patti Ford headed up my two campaigns for ISEA president.

Two longtime friends from the Council Bluffs EA that joined in to "roast" me were Cheri Nielsen (left) Math teacher at Wilson Jr. High and JoAnn Tews (right) 6th grade teacher at Walnut Grove Elementary. I give credit to Cheri for taking me to my first SWUU and ISEA meetings. JoAnn and I shared many rides to Red Oak for UniServ meetings and roomed together at many NEA-RA's.

Kate Shipley (at right) one of our young, emerging SWUU leaders and high school teacher in Creston, prepared a powerpoint presentation of a collection of photos from my travels these past four years.

SWUU members presented me with a number of lovely gifts! First (at left) is a corsage made of various denominations of paper money! SWUU Executive Board member, Becky Poen, Art teacher in Stanton, made the beautiful handmade certificate that is matted and framed here too.

Another SWUU gift was this metal cat/planter. My friends know well how important my kitties are to me! This gift has already found a home outside my front door at my townhouse in Council Bluffs!

Joining in to roast me were SWUU UniServ Directors John Phillips and Pat Shipley (two of three of our SWUU Crew). They presented me packets from the Council Bluffs Chamber of Commerce, the Omaha Chamber and various brochures from communities in southwest Iowa. If I have extra time on my hand, they felt I might need to get reacquainted with communities near home.

The third member of the SWUU Crew is SWUU's Administrative Assistant, Marilyn Paul (at right). Marilyn is the first voice our members connect with when calling the ISEA Regional Office in Red Oak. Marilyn is the calming voice that lowers the level of concern for members who have a need. SWUU members honored Marilyn on Wednesday night for Administrative Assistant's Day and the work she does every day on our behalf.

SWUU honored local EA's this evening too! Local leaders (on the left) represent local EA's that saw a membership growth in 2007-2008. Local leaders (on the right) represent SWUU locals that made their bargaining goal this year. Congratulations to all SWUU locals for increasing members and meeting bargaining goals!

As Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz often repeated, "There's no place like home, there's no place like home!" Thank you SWUU friends for your love and support, I am returning home to SWUU in June!

Gunn School Stop Wraps Up Visit in Council Bluffs

2008-04-27T11:22:00.009-05:00

Thanks to CBEA leader and member of the Negotiations team, Carol Mattox for making arrangements for my visit to Gunn School on Wednesday afternoon, April 23rd. Carol in a Talented and Gifted teacher in the Council Bluffs Schools and Gunn is one of her assignments.

My first classroom visit at Gunn Elementary was in the 6th grade classroom of Lori Reschly. I had the students join in with first reading, then singing with me the song "Take Me Out to the Ballgame". I then read aloud the poem, "Casey at the Bat".

I next read to the combined group of two classes of Kindergarten students. Ms. Ruth Rysta (on left) and Ms. Melissa Taylor (on right) invited me to read aloud 17 Things I'm Not Allowed to do Anymore. I have known Ruth as a colleague for many years and it was fun to catch up (even if it was very brief)!

The last classroom visit took me into the classroom of longtime CBEA building rep, 1st grade teacher Kathleen Kruse. It was great to reconnect with this great CBEA leader today!

Thanks to all at Gunn School for your leadership in the classroom and in the association!

Returning Home to Council Bluffs Community Schools

2008-04-27T10:40:00.015-05:00

On Wednesday afternoon, April 23rd, I visited Longfellow Elementary on the south side of town. Years ago I taught at Peterson Elementary on the south end, so today's visit was like returning home.

Council Bluffs EA president Sara Dressel (on left) and English Language Learning teacher, made arrangements for my visit to Longfellow today. The CBEA hosted a pizza luncheon for the entire Longfellow staff on Wednesday.

Several dozen staff stopped in for pizza and conversation. Pictured (on right) are two Longfellow teachers and CBEA leaders.

Visiting Longfellow gave me the chance to reconnect with longtime friend/colleague Cindy Goetzmann. Cindy (on left) taught 4th grade at Peterson Elementary when I was a 6th grade teacher there. Cindy has taught 6th grade here at Longfellow and now teaches 1st grade. It was great to see Cindy again! A most pleasant surprise today was reconnecting with a former 6th grade student at Carter Lake Elementary and now a Special Education teacher here at Longfellow, Danielle (Eggett) Alcaraz (on right). It is so exciting to welcome a former student into the profession!

Following our pizza luncheon, I had the opportunity to read in all three 1st grade classrooms. The first visit took me into the homeroom of Cindy Goetzmann. Here (on right) Cindy is pictured with her 1st graders.

Next, I was invited to read to Kelli Reese's 1st grade homeroom. It was a most inviting classroom! Here (on left) Kelli is pictured with her 1st grade class.

The final classroom visit took me into the homeroom of Barb Schmid. Barb had her students first demonstrate a song to give emphasis of an earlier Language lesson. Here Ms. Schmid is pictured (on right) with her 1st graders.

Thank you Sara Dressel for your leadership in CBEA and Team ISEA! Thanks to the entire staff at Longfellow for a warm, welcoming visit!

Lewis Central Schools Visits Leads to Titan Hill Intermediate School

2008-04-27T09:59:00.013-05:00

My Wednesday, April 23rd, began in Lewis Central Community School District at Titan Hill Intermediate School. Nearly four dozen members gathered for bagels and juice along with the chance to have conversation with their colleagues. Thanks to all who joined us before your school day began!

Lewis Central is a growing school district on the edge of Council Bluffs. Titan Hill has a student population of 2nd through 5th grade students. Each grade level has at least nine (9) homeroom classes!

LCEA past president and 5th grade teacher, Maggie Bennett (seated in the middle/black blouse) extended the invitation for my visit and made all arrangements for the morning. I had the chance to read to Maggie's homeroom. Maggie is an enthusiastic teacher/leader and we're so lucky to have her as a leader on Team ISEA!

Next I read in the 3rd grade homeroom of Mrs. Susan Drustrup. Mrs. Drustrup (back row/black t-shirt) is pictured with her 3rd grade homeroom. What a great bunch of students! Thanks Susan for your leadership in the classroom and in the association!

The last classroom visit at Titan Hill was to the homeroom of Ms. Joanna Stenlund. After reading aloud to Ms. Stenlund's 2nd grade, I captured this photo (on right) of Joanna and her homeroom.

Before leaving Titan Hill, I connected with someone I saw as I entered the building. Mrs. Tammy (Fiala) Stephens, a former 6th grade student of mine at Peterson Elementary, was volunteering time with other parents in the school's Book Fair. Tammy and her sister, Cindy, have been extra special former students. When they graduated from high school, college, got married, had babies--they invited me to their family celebrations! Tammy (and husband Todd's) daughter, Amanda, is a 5th grader here at Titan Hill Intermediate School.

Thank you Titan Hill and LCEA members for all you do for Iowa's students!

Missouri Valley EA Gathers for a Legislative Update

2008-04-27T09:41:00.006-05:00

My travels on Tuesday April 22nd ended as the association road led me to Missouri Valley. Association members gathered at the end of their school day at Missouri Valley High School for conversation with their colleagues, cookies and lemonade.

Missouri Valley EA president Sara Guinan called the group to order and gave an introduction for me. Nearly three dozen members gathered in the high school auditorium to hear the latest update on legislative action. (The General Assembly did adjourn in the wee hours of Saturday morning).

Pictured here (on the left) are MVEA president Sara Guinan, a 4th grade teacher and Carrie Kohl (on the right) MVEA Treasurer and high school Business teacher.

Thank to all MVEA members for making time in your busy schedule to meet! Thanks for all you do as leaders on Team ISEA!

Final UniServ Unit Tour as President Takes Me Home to Southwest UniServ Unit

2008-04-27T08:53:00.014-05:00

On Tuesday, April 22nd, I began my last official UniServ Unit Tour as ISEA President by heading home. Home for me is Southwest UniServ Unit where I was given so many opportunities in my local and UniServ Unit to learn and practice the skills as a local leader.

My Tuesday began at Atlantic High School where Atlantic EA past president Bev Schelling provided lunch for me. I joined Bev and other staff in the lounge for lunch as they had a few minutes to enjoy the company of other adults on staff.

Pictured below (on left) with me is Bev Schelling and (on right) Bev and her husband Gaylord Schelling, both teachers at Atlantic High School. Thanks, Bev, for your leadership on Team ISEA!

Following lunch I was off to Atlantic's Washington Elementary School. Here I met up with Atlantic EA building rep. Janice Dickerson, teacher/librarian who gave me a tour of the building.

I first read in the homeroom of Mrs. Alexander, who was absent this day. Substituting in the Kindergarten classroom was Mrs. Bartz. Pictured (on right) are Mrs. Bartz with Mrs. Alexander's Kindergarten class.

Next, I was off to the 3rd grade homeroom of Mrs. Goergen. I was given the opportunity to listen to individual students read reports they'd prepared. Students had been working on fluency and adding inflection. They all did a terrific job! Mrs. Goergen and her 3rd graders are pictured on left.

The final classroom visit at Washington Elementary was to the 2nd grade classroom of Mrs. Tracy Daugherty. Tracy and I were classmates with our UNI Masters' program from the summer of 1997-May 2000. It was extra special to connect with Tracy again and to see her great leadership in the classroom.

It was great to visit my friends and leaders of the Atlantic EA today! Thanks for all you do every day for Iowa's students!

A Great Day With Friends in Clear Lake

2008-04-15T09:42:00.019-05:00

I shall always have a special spot in my heart for the great leaders of the Clear Lake EA. My first year in office they not only planned a great day of visiting schools for me, but a lovely reception at the end of the day. Of course I cried, I wasn't used to being treated so "royally".

On Wednesday, April 9th I revisted my good friends of the Clear Lake EA and got to see the great work they do every day for Iowa students. My driver/host for the day (as was 4 years ago) was Don Christ, retired teacher from Clear Lake. Don (pictured at right) was just the most terrific host! If we had a few extra minutes between schools, we drove past points of interest in the community of Clear Lake. Thanks, Don! You provided not only a great ride, but great conversation.

Our first school visit took us to Lincoln Elementary. Here we connected with CLEA leader Mary Gagnon and elementary counselor. Mary had us visit Mrs. Baker's homeroom and read aloud a book. Mary Gagnon is pictured (on the left) with the class of 1st graders.

Don and I were next off to Clear Lake High School. Here we had the opportunity to observe in CLEA leader John Morgan's classroom.

John (left end of table) leads discussion with special needs students on their eating habits. The students were quite knowledgeable on what they should eat (like many of us!).

Next we were off to High School Government class filled with Juniors and Seniors. Beth Ann Schumacher (in blue sweater in center/left; on far right/right photo) led her class in review of their study of the federal government and how Congress passes legislation. The students had voted to do away with the No Child Left Behind Law and Mrs. Schumacher asked me to address the impact on educators and their students as well as the work of Team NEA in making needed changes.

Don and I were each treated to a special homemade lunch made by CLEA member Jeanne Burgart in which we enjoyed in the staff lounge. The lunch included healthy things like baby carrots as well as an orange--but a sandwich on homemade bread with homemade cookies. You can't get any better then that! Thanks, Jeanne!

Off to our next visit! Don and I were then off to Clear Creek Elementary. Here we had the opportunity to see the 3rd graders prepare for their Music program.

In the multi-purpose room of Clear Creek Elementary we observed elementary Music teacher Harold Arians lead the 3rd grade through their performance. Mr. A. asked me to speak to all the students about "responsibility". Sometimes hearing the same lessons from someone outside the building emphasizes the lessons they hear every day. Great work, Mr. A. and 3rd graders!

Next I had the opportunity to read aloud to all five groups of 4th grade! Here they are (on the right) getting excited about receiving their "mood" pencil following the read aloud.

As the day began to wind down, we found ourselves in Mrs. Melanie Marreel's 4th grade homeroom. Here (on the left) Melanie reads aloud as the students finish their assignment notebooks and ready for their journey home. Melanie is the president of the Clear Lake Education Association.

Here I am pictured with Mrs. Merreel's 4th graders (on left) and with Evan Applegate, a member of Mrs. Merreel's class (on right),grandson of CLEA leaders (and extra special friends) John and Cheral Morgan.

At the end of the school day, CLEA members and leaders gathered at the Lakeview Room overlooking beautiful Clear Lake for a reception. As is their tradition, the CLEA leaders provided an abundance of delicious foods and an opportunity to have friendly conversation. Here (at left) President Melanie and I are ready to share in some of the special treats.

They honored me with a number of gifts, the first--a beautiful package...and inside....tissues! We all got a great laugh, as good friends they know me well! I was also made an "honorary member of the Clear Lake Education Association"!

Thanks so much Clear Lake Education Association friends and leaders! In honoring me, you are honoring all of your colleagues on Team ISEA! Keep up your great work in continuing to build your local. You are all indeed special folk!

A Full Day Visit to Iowa Falls

2008-04-14T14:21:00.025-05:00

I tried my best to visit Iowa Falls in December 2007 only to have school canceled for the day due to snow accumulation. So today, Tuesday-April 8th, was the day that I actually visited Iowa Falls and had a chance to connect with some of our great Team ISEA leaders.

My first stop was to the Times Citizen Communication at 406 Stevens Street. I was interviewed by Jackson Groves for a radio program to be aired later in the day. During my visit with Jackson I discovered there was another young man working for the radio station/newspaper who I needed to meet because he was from Council Bluffs. Now this is the best part, one of the "gems" along the way in my travels--I taught with the young man's dad at Carter Lake Elementary!

Here I'm pictured with Jackson Groves (on the left) who works for both the radio station and newspaper in Iowa Falls and Coltrane Carlson (on the right), Sports Director for KIFG radio and the son of CBEA member Dave Carlson. Coltrane's dad, Dave Carlson, is an elementary band teacher for five elementary buildings in Council Bluffs.

UniServ Director from Unit Two, Cindy Carroll, was able to travel with me today. Thanks, Cindy for working with Iowa Falls EA leaders to make all our arrangements for the day!

Our first school visit took us to Rock Run Elementary. Here I had the chance to read to two different classes in the school Media Center.

In the Media Center I reconnected with a friend I met last summer on the campus of the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls when we took a class together (an update of Children's Literature)--Elementary Media Specialist Ann Newberg (pictured with me on the right). Ann arranged for two separate classes to visit and hear my read aloud.

The first class I read to was Marj Cleveringa's class. Here (on the left) Marj is pictured with her homeroom in the Rock Run Elementary Media Center.

I then read to Hanna Myers' 5th grade class in the Media Center. Hanna is pictured with her students on the right.

Next, UniServ Director Cindy Carroll and I were off to Riverbend Middle School.

At Riverbend MS we connected with Iowa Falls EA President and MS Science teacher Karen Koenig. Here we were given the chance to observe the tail end of the 7th grade staff team meeting before observing Karen in action in her classroom.

Karen Koenig led her classroom in Second Chance Reading--students reading independently from self-selected novels, then taking a 10 question quiz on the classroom computer.

School lunch today was a "walking taco". UniServ Director Cindy and I had the chance to visit with staff in the lounge as they enjoyed a few moments together as a colleagues.

We were next back to Rock Run Elementary where I had the chance to visit with Juli Weidemann's Social Studies class about my time serving as a state legislator. We visited about issues that might interest them as students and how ideas can move forward into laws.

The final school visit took us to Pine View Elementary where I was able to read aloud to Kathy Moore's homeroom. Pine View is the primary grade elementary building here in Iowa Falls.

Pictured here on the right is Kathy Moore and her homeroom students.

Visiting the classrooms was delightful! There were so many great things going on in all the Iowa Falls classrooms today!

At the end of a full day of working with students, Iowa Falls EA members joined us in the Family and Consumer Science classroom at Riverbend Middle School for snacks, juice and conversation. Nearly a dozen IFEA members were able to stop by at the end of their work day to say "hello".

It is always fascinating to hear about the professional development opportunities they are involved in as well as how their Teacher Quality money is being distributed. President Karen presented me with a gift--for my furry little critters (my two cats) that are left alone on my many trips--kitty toys and kitty treats!

Thanks, Iowa Falls EA for your thoughtfulness as well as your leadership on Team ISEA!

2008 ISEA Delegate Assembly Now History

2008-04-06T17:12:00.011-05:00

On Thursday and Friday, April 3 & 4, nearly 450 Team ISEA members from across the state gathered in Ames at Hilton Coliseum for the 2008 ISEA Delegate Assembly.

The assembly was action packed which included electing a new leadership team of Chris Bern, Knoxville High School Math teacher --ISEA President and Tammy Wawro, Cedar Rapids Mentoring and Induction Facilitator--ISEA Vice-President. The new team begins their term of office on June 15th (for a two-year term).

ISEA Executive Director Jan Reinicke (standing at left) addressed the delegates for her last time on Thursday morning. Jan has announced she is retiring on August 31st after a 28 year career with ISEA, the last 10 as Executive Director.

NEA Directors Jim Young of Cedar Falls and Kathy Williams of Davenport (standing at left in right photo) challenge Team ISEA delegates to contribute to the NEA Fund for Children and Public Education. Under Jim and Kathy's leadership (and the help of the entire ISEA Executive Board) we raised over $8,000 for the NEA Fund! NEA Directors Jim and Kathy also addressed the assembled with their annual NEA Director's report.

Team ISEA honored several throughout the assembly for their commitment to education. State Senator Mike Gronstal was named the 2008 Friend of Education. Senator Gronstal has been a champion for public education and has led efforts to increase funding and expand learning opportunities during his more than 30 years of service in the Legislature.

Floyd Winter, a retired Cedar Falls educator and school administrator who continues to work to expand learning opportunities for students, received the Paul Mann Memorial Human Relations Award. This award, which is named in honor of long-time Des Moines teacher and human rights activist Paul Mann, honors an individual or group for exemplary contributions toward the advancement of human and civil rights.

Jean Swenson, a veteran music teacher from New Hampton, was honored with the Charles F. Martin Award for Association leadership--the top award the Association presents to a member. It is named in honor of Charles F. Martin, the ISEA's president in 1945 who went on to serve as executive director from 1946 to 1961.

Sheryl Traetow, a paraeducator at Hansen Elementary School in Cedar Falls, was presented with the Education Support Professional of the Year for her dedication to supporting teachers, students, and their parents.

One of the highlights for ISEA Retired delegates is the breakfast that Team ISEA hosts for them on Friday morning. ISEA-R delegates are pictured (at left) with Barb Cunningham (first row-left) as their Chair and Joann Mackin (first row-right) ISEA-R staff liaison.

It was my last Delegate Assembly and I didn't do a very good job in holding the tears back. Everyone was extra kind and so generous with their praise. I have much to look forward to as I am heading back to the classroom in the fall, but I shall miss seeing the friends I've made while serving as ISEA President. As I continue to say, "Thanks for all you continue to do as leaders on Team ISEA!"

Special thanks to Barb Cunningham for the photos posted here!

Presentation to Congressman Boswell's Campaign

2008-03-31T15:09:00.016-05:00

Iowa's 3rd District Congressman Leonard Boswell has earned the support of the 32,000 members of the Iowa State Education Association as well as the 3.2 million members of the National Education Association in his re-election bid in campaign 2008. Congressman Boswell was represented today by Boswell Campaign staffer Lindsay Brown as I had the opportunity to present a campaign contribution from the NEA Fund for Children and Public Education.
Thanks, Congressman Boswell for your continued great work on behalf of all Iowa children and their families!

ISEA-PAC Central Committee Meets to Plan Candidate Interviews

2008-03-29T18:15:00.022-05:00

On Friday evening and Saturday until early afternoon, members of the ISEA-PAC Central Committee met at the ISEA headquarters building to ready themselves for Campaign 2008.

The Des Moines Education Association (DMEA) and Northeast Iowa Education Unit (NEIEU) led in attendance with a full contingent of all four members (two Republican/two Democratic members). Thanks to all members of Team ISEA-PAC that were able to participate, they are:

CedarWood 2/4
DMEA 4/4
East Central 2/4
Geode 1/4
Great River 1/4
Hawkeye 3/4
JDC 2/4
Lincolnway 3/4
Mid-Iowa 1/4
Mississippi Bend 2/4
NEIEU 4/4
State Unit 9 2/4
Northern Pride 0/4
Polk Suburban 2/4
South Central 2/4
Siouxland 3/4
Southwest 2/4
Unit 10 1/4
Unit 2 1/4

ISEA President-Linda Nelson
ISEA Vice President-Chris Bern
NEA Director-Jim Young
NEA Director-Kathy Williams

Brad Hudson (on the right) and Jon Studer (on the left), Team ISEA Lobbyist, started our meeting Friday evening with a legislative report on progress being made in Iowa's General Assembly.

Brad distributed legislative maps, reviewed candidate questionaires as well as candidate interview procedures. Team ISEA PAC members worked within their UniServ Units to take charge of who would be responsible for setting up individual candidate interviews.

I updated the group on where NEA is with presidential candidate endorsements and our U.S. Senate and U.S.House candidates. NEA Directors Jim Young and Kathy Williams updated us on fundraising for the NEA Fund for Children and Public Education and activities to be held at Delegate Assembly next week to bring attention to our efforts.

Brad walked us through all 25 state Senate races as well as all 100 Iowa House races. Candidate interviews should be completed by June 2nd with all paper work to us by then. Our next ISEA-PAC Central Committee meeting will be Monday, June 9th in Des Moines.

Thanks to all Team ISEA-PAC for the work you've done in the past and the work you do for Campaign 2008!

A Return Visit to Unit Two With a Day in Charles City

2008-03-29T15:55:00.026-05:00

On Thursday, March 27th I had a full day of meeting members and seeing the magic they do every day in Charles City. Charles City EA President Lisa Nelson (at left in center) scheduled some great opportunities throughout the day to visit members in all buildings throughout Charles City.

Unit 2 UniServ Director Sandra G. and I met with members for conversaton at the Charles City Middle School cafeteria for homemade cinnamon rolls, juice and coffee.

As the school day began, President Lisa Nelson arranged for us to sit down over coffee with school district administration. We were able to visit with school Superintendent, Middle School principal and assistant principal as well as the Elementary principal. With issues before the Iowa General Assembly that we all didn't agree on as a group, there were many more issues that we do agree on.

My first classroom visit today was in Middle School Language Arts teacher Brenda Bailey's 6th grade room. I did a read aloud of Chris VanAllsburg's Probuditi!

Next we were off to Washington Elementary. As you can see, just a "typical" Iowa spring day! Charles City ended up getting around 3" of snow on Thursday.

We would visit two 5th grade classrooms. The first stop was in 5th grade teacher Erik Hoefer's homeroom. Erik (at left with his homeroom) is past president of the Charles City EA and had also served on the Negotiations team.

The second 5th grade classroom was of birthday girl Cherie Schafer. Cherie (is pictured at right) with her homeroom and birthday balloons.

I had the 5th grade students join me in reading aloud Take Me Out to the Ballgame!, then we sang it together shouting out our favorite team's name when we got to the part, "Root, root, root for the 'hometeam'". I then read aloud the poem Casey at the Bat. Opening day for major league baseball is just around the corner!

We then headed back to the Middle School where we were guests in the room of Marcia DeVore's 7th grade Second Chance Reading class. I was given the opportunity to sit down one-on-one with a student and do a book talk with her, then observed the whole class review of graphic organizers before I was given the chance to read aloud from the class read aloud book, Hoot.

Next we were off to Charles City High School to have lunch in the Family Consumer Science classroom of the "Comet Cafe". Once every two weeks the foods class plans, shops and prepares a meal open to the community for just $6.00 each.

What a pleasant surprise to have a long-time friend and association activist Pat Bode walk into the Comet Cafe for lunch today! Pat (pictured with me) is an associate in the High School Media Center. Following a delicious lunch and great conversation, we were able to visit Pat in the Media Center before leaving for our next appointment.

Our next school visit took us to Lincoln Elementary. Here at Lincoln we were able to visit with Charles City EA building rep Ann Lasher and staff as they enjoyed lunch in the staff lounge.

Our final building visit on Thursday in Charles City took us back to Washington Elementary. Here I had the chance to read to both Jill Janssen's and Tami Hummel's 3rd grade. I read aloud the book 17 Things I'm Not Allowed to do Anymore!

Next I read to all three classes of Kindergarten. The Kindergarten classes are led by teachers Kelly Lechtenberg, Judy Scholbrock, and Carrie Eiklenborg.

Our last classroom visit was to observe "Buddy Reading" with 4th and 1st graders. The students get together every other week to share their favorite read alouds with their buddy. I then was able to share the book The True Story of the Three Little Pigs with the combined group. Cara Ludeman and her 4th graders are pictured below on the left.

Thanks Charles City EA for your warm hospitality and thanks to CCEA President Lisa Nelson for her leadership on Team ISEA!

The “imagine nation” in America

2008-03-24T11:30:00.009-05:00

The “imagine nation” in America
Identifying An Emerging Voting Constituency
An Overwhelming Majority of Voters Signal Public Schools Are Important

A recent national poll conducted by Lake Research Partners has identified a new and growing constituency of voters in America who advocate building capacities of the imagination in public education.[1] This population of self-identified voters will readily and strongly support public education that answers the call for innovation and goes beyond its current focus on the “so-called” basics to meet the changing demands of the 21st century. The finding is consistent with aggregated findings from polling across a two-year period including the recent Partnership for 21st Century Skills poll and focus groups conducted by Marmillion + Company, Washington, DC, which confirmed the strength of America's desire for imagination in learning. Moreover, within the growing constituency is a more intensely committed group of very likely voters ripe for mobilization – an “imagine nation.”

94% of American voters say that public schools are important.

89% voters agree that the imagination is a key ingredient to innovation and student success.

The imagine nation comprises 30% of likely voters who feel intensely about the issue.

Voters believe that, in order to meet the demand for innovation in the marketplace, we must teach skills of the imagination in the classroom. They are concerned that America, an historic leader in innovation, is falling behind as it devotes less attention to developing what voters perceive to be essential skills of the imagination and innovation than do other nations.

79% of voters strongly believe that imagination is key to innovation.

56% of American voters believe that, when compared to other nations, America devotes less attention to developing the imagination and to innovation. Only 19% of respondents believe the United States is ahead.

Voters reject the notion that the basics and technology alone prepare students for success and pushes back against the notion of leaving imagination for outside the classroom. While voters recognize that building capacities of the imagination rests primarily with an education in and through the arts, they also believe that the arts are essential to invigorating the teaching of other fundamental school subjects and that incorporating imagination across the curriculum produces the strongest results. For instance, voters believe that the arts should be integrated with science, technology, engineering, and math to provide students the skills and values necessary to be imaginative and innovative.

91% of voters indicate that arts are essential to building capacities of the imagination.

73% of voters believe that building capacities of the imagination is just as important as the “so called” basics for all students in public schools. 82% of voters want to build imagination and creative skills in schools.

As education becomes an increasingly spotlighted issue, poll data suggests that a large group of Americans is planning to vote according to a candidate’s position on developing skills of the imagination in public schools. Independent voters prove especially reactive to a candidate’s decisions to fund imagination in education.

57% of voters say they would be more likely to vote for a candidate who came out in support of more funding for developing skills of the imagination in schools.

57% of voters say they would be less likely to vote for a candidate who votes to cut funding for building capacities of the imagination in public education, and 36% percent of voters say they would be much less likely to do so.

For policy makers, the “imagine nation” constituency supports three specific points of action in order to prompt innovation with an education that develops the cognitive capacities of the imagination:

1. Build capacities of the imagination by supporting time and resources for an education in and through the arts.
2. Support integrated and interdisciplinary processes and approaches, which also save money and time in the school day.
3. Move beyond testing that stifles students and educators alike to broader assessments that encourage imaginative and innovative teaching and learning.

For more information, please visit http://www.theimaginenation.net/ .

Meet NEA State Presidents Who Are Fellow Bloggers

2008-03-20T19:44:00.009-05:00

In the summer of 2006 the ISEA Leadership Team participated in NEA's Summer Leader's Conference in Baltimore, Maryland following the NEA Representative Assembly. There were leader tracks for state Presidents, Vice Presidents and state Treasurers. There were also sessions where all leaders came together and that is where I was given the opportunity to share my blogging efforts. I would like to introduce you to two of my great friends who have blogged as long as me.

Donna New Haschke, state President of the Texas State Teachers Association (at right), is a fellow blogger. Reading Donna's blog is like sitting down over a cup of coffee and having a great conversation with a good friend! This spunky state President has amazing energy and her quick wit makes all who come in contact with her a new best friend. Donna completes her service as state president for the Texas State Teachers Association later this summer.

Give a look to TSTA President Donna's blog: http://www.tstaweb.net/mtstatic

Roy Bishop, President of the Oklahoma Education Association, is another long-time fellow state president blogger. Roy has a passion for writing and at any meeting can be seen journaling. Roy uses writing in so many ways including writing personal letters to many family members and friends on a regular basis (a seemingly lost trait for many in our society). Roy is a well respected leader by all state presidents and is genuinely just one of the nicest persons I've met in all my contact with NEA leaders. Roy also leaves office as President of the Oklahoma Education Association following the NEA Representative Assembly this summer.

Please take the time to check out OEA President Roy's blog: http://roysaccount.blogspot.com/

Investing in One Who Invests in Iowa's Students and Families

2008-03-20T14:37:00.006-05:00

Today representing Team ISEA I had the privilege of delivering a check to the Citizens for Harkin campaign for U. S. Senator Tom Harkin's re-election effort. Molly, an enthusiastic campaign staffer (pictured with me) accepted the campaign contribution from the voluntary contributions of the 3.2 million members of the National Education Association. This fall we will ask all Team ISEA to volunteer time in a campaign to make phone calls or go door-to-door in electing/re-electing "friends of education" in campaign 2008. We feel fortunate to have such a friend in U.S. Senator Tom Harkin!

JDC Tour Winds Down With a Visit to Western Dubuque Community Schools

2008-03-18T11:26:00.007-05:00

On Thursday afternoon, March 13th, JDC UniServ Director Bob Brown and I headed to the Western Dubuque Community School District in Farley. We had the chance to visit both Drexler Middle School and Drexler Elementary.

Western Dubuque EA President Sandy Ross (pictured with Bob Brown) gave us a tour of both the Middle and Elementary Schools. Sandy teaches 7th grade Science here at the building in Farley.

I had the chance to read to Mrs. Robbin Harris’s Kindergarten class. Mrs. Harris had the book Joshua Disobeys for me to read aloud. The book was written and illustrated by a young boy from Oklahoma, so the students were extra excited to hear from someone their own age!

It was great to meet so many talented and dedicated educators today! Thanks Western Dubuque EA for all you do as leaders on Team ISEA!

A Visit to Dubuque Schools Leads to Elementary Buildings

2008-03-18T10:45:00.013-05:00

JDC UniServ Director Bob Brown and I began our day on Thursday, March 13th at Audubon Elementary in Dubuque. Families were dropping off children and the rush was on to enter the building to get to their classrooms on time!

Our tour guide this morning was Ed Glaser, elementary Physical Education teacher here at Audubon. Ed (on the right) is pictured with UniServ Director Bob Brown. Ed stopped us along the tour to meet many of the great staff here at Aubudon and share the amazing things that are taking place in providing a great education for all students.

One of the enthusiastic staff members that we met this morning was Connie Hoffman (pictured with me on left). I thank you, Connie, for stopping to introduce yourself to put a face on the dedicated professionals who make a difference each day for students.

Thank you Ed and all the great staff on Team Audubon for your leadership in the classroom and in the association!

Our second school visit for the morning in Dubuque was at Lincoln Elementary. The sun was out and the piles of snow were finally beginning to melt. It was a great day!

We were greeted at the front doors by Dubuque EA/Lincoln Elementary Building Rep, Jen Martel (a 4th grade teacher). We had a chance to visit all three floors of the building, stop into many classrooms and meet staff and see the great things happening here at Lincoln Elementary!

Now talk about a "small world"--today I met a teacher that I will be teaching with in the fall! April St. Claire (pictured on right with me) is a Special Education teacher whose husband is finished with his training in the Dubuque area and they will be moving to Council Bluffs with new jobs. April and I will be teaching at Carter Lake Elementary in the fall!

One classroom we stopped to visit along the way was in Linda Niemann's Music class. It was fun to reconnect with Linda as I had met her a few years ago at the NEA Representative Assembly when she taught in Illinois.

Lincoln Elementary Principal Donna Loewen (on the left) stepped out of a meeting to make sure she connected with us. It was great to have the opportunity to thank this building leader for her leadership!

Thanks to all for your hospitality this morning and thanks for all you do every day for Iowa students!

Team ISEA Leaders of JDC UniServ Unit Meet

2008-03-17T16:01:00.009-05:00

On Wednesday evening March 12th, the JDC UniServ Unit Executive Board met at the unit office in Dubuque for one of their four meetings for the 2007-2008 school year.

JDC UniServ Unit Administrative Assistant Lora Henkel (front row on left) helped set out materials needed for the meeting as well as a dinner of pizza and sub sandwiches. Lora stayed to enjoy dinner and conversation with unit leaders before ending her long work day.

The leadership team for JDC UniServ Unit consists of Roberta Rosheim (far left) of Maquoketa, Unit Secretary; Deb Richmann (center) of Central DeWitt, Unit President; and Dianne Callahan of Western Dubuque, Unit Vice-President.

Peg Thein (front row, left) of Clayton-Ridge, serves as the JDC representative on the ISEA Executive Board.

Leaders from all 14 locals of JDC are represented on the unit Executive Board. JDC leaders heard from committee chairs, UniServ Director Bob Brown and from two candidates running for ISEA President.

Thank you JDC UniServ Unit leaders for all you do as leaders on Team ISEA!

A Visit to Midland Community School District

2008-03-17T14:55:00.092-05:00

On Wednesday afternoon March 12th JDC UniServ Director Bob Brown and I head to Oxford Junction to the elementary building of Midland Community School District.

We had the opportunity to meet some of the sweetest little children in Bonnie Holst-Cummings' homeroom of Kindergarteners. That one little sweetie pie (in the pink-2nd row) kept throwing me kisses! I read aloud to the group before leaving them with our ISEA mood pencils.

We next were off to Lost Nation to visit intermediate center for the elementary of Midland Community School District.

Association leader Anita Mohr (pictured at left) met us in the office to welcome us. She gave us a tour of the building that had been converted over the summer from a middle school to an intermediate level elementary building.

Mrs. Mohr had students demonstrate several of the learning strategies they use in her pull-out program in Special Education. We saw a computer program they use for word processing as well as many other print materials in place.

We met many enthusiastic educators as well as hard-working students today. Thanks Midlands for all you do for Iowa's students!

Making Time to Visit a Long-Time Friend

2008-03-17T14:30:00.006-05:00

On our Wednesday travels JDC UniServ Director Bob Brown and I had a little extra time between local association visits so we made a surprise stop in Maquoketa.

Long-time association activist and Briggs Elementary Special Education teacher, Roberta Rosheim, was squeezing in a few minutes of work time between groups of students when we stopped in to see her.

Roberta served for many years on the ISEA Executive Board and continues to serve at the unit level as JDC Secretary.

It was great to see Roberta, someone who continues to serve as a leader on Team ISEA!

Wednesday Morning Begins Early in Preston

2008-03-17T12:31:00.016-05:00

On Wednesday, March 12th Patty Schmidt, co-president of the Preston EA, hosted a before school social in her classroom to share conversation, home-made breakfast breads and juice. I discovered Patty Schmidt to be one terrific leader for the association as well as a leader in the classroom!

At least a dozen members dropped by to introduce themselves and enjoy conversation with colleagues before their instructional day began. Patty is pictured here with colleagues and JDC UniServ Director (on the right) Bob Brown.

Mrs. Schmidt demonstrates for the 11th and 12th grade students in her Agriculture class the dissection of a cow's heart. Students then worked with a partner on the cow's hearts donated by the local meat locker.

Traveling across town to the elementary building, I had the chance to read to Irene Entsminger’s 4th grade. Here (at left) is Mrs. Entsminger and her 4th grade homeroom.

We next visited long-time association activist and Preston EA co-president Lou Behrend’s 6th grade. I spoke with Mr. Behrend's (pictured at right) about my responsibilities as ISEA president as well as my involvement in making a personal selection in the presidential caucus process.

The final classroom visit in Preston was to the room of 5th grade teachers Tricia Legal and Stacy Bormann. I had the chance to visit with the class about community service and their schooling years ahead.

Thanks so much Preston EA for all you do as leaders on Team ISEA!

Dining Out With Association Leaders Who Are Now Friends

2008-03-17T12:16:00.005-05:00

When I began serving as ISEA president in June 2004 many association leaders were familiar faces. Being involved over the years in ISEA state committees, ISEA-PAC, Delegate Assembly, and the NEA Representative Assembly--so many of the leaders were familiar. Now after four years in office, I consider our association leaders my friends.

In 2004 when first elected ISEA president, Dianne Callahan (on the right) was seated at the same table at Delegate Assembly. Dianne was there to give that warm smile, a nod of agreement, and the reassurance that all would be fine. Diane is a high school Business teacher in Western Dubuque in Epworth and Vice President of JDC UniServ Unit. I consider Dianne an extra special friend!

Sandy Ross (on the left) is a newer friend--current president of the Western Dubuque EA and a Middle School Science teacher in Farley.

Tuesday evening these two great leader/friends made arrangements to take me out for dinner at Red Robin in Dubuque.

Association Road Leads to Maquoketa Valley

2008-03-17T10:42:00.017-05:00

On Tuesday March 11th in the afternoon, the association road led us to the Maquoketa Valley Community School District in Delhi. We were greeted by Maquoketa Valley EA President Jane Rissler (pictured with me).

Jane is an English teacher in the Maquoketa Valley Middle School. Jane had a great schedule for JDC UniServ Director Bob and I to visit.

The first classroom visit took us into Sarah Schrodt’s freshman Spanish class. Sarah is Vice President of the Maquoketa Valley EA.

Ms. Schrodt has her classroom set up in "stations"--much like I've seen in elementary classrooms with their "centers". These high school students were actively engaged at each station!

Next, we were off to the elementary area of the building. Our first classroom stop was in the 1st grade room of Karen George. The children in this room had done family projects on creating a trap to catch a leprechaun. They had some very clever projects! I read aloud a book Mrs. George had on St. Patrick's Day.

Our next classroom visit took us to the 4th grade room of Kris Wilson. Mrs. Wilson (standing at left) had her 4th graders do a Reader's Theater for us from a Judy Blum book. The two groups of "voices" are pictured below.

Marla Wulfekuhle’s 5th grade class were next to invite us in. Mrs. Wulfekuhle's class were working in groups to write a dialogue representing both parties for the period of history they are studying. Mrs. Wulfehule is pictured (standing) with one group of her 5th graders.

Back to the Middle School where we visited Michelle Grimm’s 7th grade Language Arts class. Michelle had me read aloud as the students followed along chapter 2 from The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin. I then led the follow-up discussion.

Ms. Grimm (seated at right) then chronicled on her computer (projecting onto a screen with an LCD projector) the characters introduced in this chapter. Students shared what they knew about each character as they added it to their own journals.

The final classroom visit for our day was in President Jane's classroom. Jane Rissler, 7th Grade English teacher, and Tracy Massman, Middle School Special Education teacher work as a dynamic team in providing instruction to this group of Middle School students! Jane is pictured on the far left and Tracy is in the pink (3rd in) on the right.

After a full day of instruction, teacher/members joined us in the school Media Center for snacks, beverages and conversation. Nearly two dozen Maquoketa Valley EA members were able to stop by and share the many great things going on in their classrooms and district. Teachers were also preparing for Parent-Teacher Conference to be held both Wednesday and Thursday of this week.

Thanks Maquoketa Valley EA for your hospitality and thanks to all for everything you do every day for Iowa's students!

JDC Tour Begins in Central DeWitt

2008-03-14T17:45:00.034-05:00

My tour of JDC UniServ Unit began on Tuesday, March 11th with a visit to Central DeWitt in DeWitt, Iowa. UniServ Director Bob Brown and I met with CDEA members in the Family Consumer Science classroom for sweet rolls, coffee and juice over conversation in the Middle School before the school day began.

Central DeWitt EA President Kevin Roling (on left) visits with JDC UniServ Director Bob Brown (on right) as members gather. Kevin teaches 6th grade Science.

Deb Richmann (pictured at right) teaches Computer Skills here in Central DeWitt. In addition to serving as a local leader, Deb serves as President of JDC UniServ Unit. Thanks, Deb for all you do as a leader on Team ISEA!

Nearly two dozen staff dropped by before their school day began on Tuesday to visit with us. It is always a treat to meet the dedicated educators that have a passion to make a difference in the lives of Iowa students and thank them for their work!

The first classroom visit of the day was to Zeb Hubner’s 8th grade Social Studies room. I spoke to the students about my responsibilities as president of ISEA and challenged them to reach beyond the plans they are making for themselves. I shared that it is important to plan ahead for their educational years beyond high school, but there will be opportunities that arise that they might not have planned for that they might consider.

The next classroom visit took us to the high school room of Pam Burke’s Spanish class. I shared with students the path of my career and as well as professional experiences.

We were next off to Ekstrand Elementary here in DeWitt where I would get to read to two different classrooms! We also had the chance to meet the building principal and many friendly staff members!

I read aloud to Mrs. McCulloh’s classroom here at Ekstrand Elementary. They were delightful youngsters that really got involved in the read aloud!

I have not had the chance to read aloud the book Probuditi! by Chris VanAllsburg for quite a while and today I had a few extra minutes in Ms. Chase’s 4th grade room. The class really seemed to enjoy it!

New Iowa AmeriCorps NCCC Campus now accepting applications! * Help spread the word*

2008-03-14T11:54:00.002-05:00

U.S. Senator Tom Harkin Announces Run For 5th Term

2008-03-10T17:23:00.009-05:00

Getting an early start to the day this morning U.S. Senator Tom Harkin and his wife, Ruth, announced from the Celebration Barn in Warren County he is running for re-election to the U.S. Senate at an 8:30 a.m. event. Senator Harkin has a full day ahead with a six city tour!

Over 200 people gathered for the much anticipated announcement from Senator Harkin. U.S. Senator Tom Harkin has served four-six year terms in the United States Senate and with today's announcement he is working towards his 5th term!

Ruth Harkin introduced her husband to the crowd of friends and long-time supporters in Tom Harkin's hometown of Cumming, Iowa. The Harkins own a home in Cumming.

U.S. Senator Tom Harkin chairs both the Senate Agriculture Committee as well as the Appropriations Committee for Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education. Team ISEA/NEA are most proud of Senator Harkin's advocacy for students and all Americans with disabilities.

Educators all across Iowa will work alongside Senator Harkin in this fall's campaign to get him re-elected!

ISEA Community College Faculty Lobby Day

2008-03-05T14:52:00.013-06:00

This morning Team ISEA held its 2nd annual Community College Faculty Lobby Day. Nearly 50 Higher Education members gathered at the Quality Inn in Des Moines for a legislative briefing before moving on to the state Capitol.

Jon Studer, ISEA Lobbyist and liaison to the Higher Education standing committee and Ellen Stone, Administrative Assistant worked together as a team to put together this great day for Team ISEA Higher Education members.

Members from across the state gathered early for the opportunity to have conversations with their colleagues over coffee and sweet rolls.

State Represenative Mike Reasoner of Creston was able to break away from the Capitol and join us to represent legislative leadership. Rep. Reasoner spoke of the great relationship he has with community college faculty from Southwestern Community College in his hometown because they continue to have conversations back home at Legislative Forums as well as meeting for coffee to discuss issues.

Lobbyist Jon Studer provided a powerpoint presentation on community college growing enrollment, lagging salaries for Iowa's faculty, professional development, Quality Faculty issues, and community college general aid. Lobbyist Brad Hudson gave us an overview of recent legislative action.

Dave Neas of Southwestern Community College and a member of the ISEA Higher Education standing committee reported on the Quality Faculty Work Group.

Bradley Dyke (on the right) a Political Science Faculty member from DMACC presented Advocacy Training for all gathered.

As our morning came to a close, ISEA Higher Education members grabbed a sack lunch and soda then headed to the Capitol to visit with state law makers.

The afternoon's agenda included meeting with Education Appropriations Subcommittee Chairs, Senator Frank Wood and Representative Cindy Winckler.

Preparing for Our 2008 Delegate Assembly

2008-03-05T14:26:00.011-06:00

For four nights this week, ISEA is hosting Delegate Orientations over the Iowa Communications Network (ICN) to introduce to our members a sampling of what they can look forward to on April 3-4 in Ames.

Our origination site all week (Monday-Thursday) is the Saydel High School ICN room. Our first night we had a dozen leaders present at our location from from Polk Suburban UniServ Unit.

Also connected on Monday were: Geode UniServ Unit from the New London High School; Mid-Iowa UniServ Unit from both Ames High School and Marshalltown Community College; and State Unit Nine from both Ottumwa High School and Oskaloosa Public Library.

Tuesday night we were joined at the Saydel High School origination site with two members from South Central UniServ Unit; Bill Miller from Van Meter and Raeann Thomas from Interstate 35.

Joining us Tuesday from remote locations were: Cedar Wood and East Central UniServ Units from the Iowa City Public Library; and South Central UniServ Unit from the Indianola City Administration building.

Wednesday was a huge night with many members at various sites connecting! ISEA Executive Director Jan Reinicke (standing) started tonight's session as I was a part of a conference call with other state presidents. Assisting all week was Diane Halter (seated) Saydel Media Specialist. We were joined by JDC UniServ Unit from the Dubuque Forum and Bellevue High School; NEIEU from the Fayette Public Library; Northern Pride from Boyden-Hull High School; Southwest UniServ Unit from Red Oak Community Center; and Unit Two from both Eldora-New Providence High School and Nora Springs-Rock Falls High School.

Thursday, our final Delegate Orientation had the most UniServ Units participating! We were connected to: Great River UniServ Unit at Davenport's Kimberly Center; Hawkeye UniServ Unit from AEA 267 in Cedar Falls; Lincolnway UniServ Unit at Carroll-Kuemper High School; Mississippi Bend UniServ Unit from Pleasant Valley High School; Siouxland UniServ Unit from Sioux City West High School; and UniServ Unit 10 from both Estherville Community College and Algona National Guard. Assisting me on Thursday was Team ISEA Associate Executive Director for Business Services John Hanrahan (pictured above).

Delegates have the opportunity to review the 2008 Delegate Assembly Agenda and Handbook; view videos from 3 candidates running for ISEA President and 3 candidates running for ISEA Vice President; review proposed Amendments, Resolutions and New Business Items; view a video reviewing the proposed ISEA Budget; and learn of fundraising efforts to take place.

It will be an exciting 2008 Delegate Assembly full of opportunities for members to have their voices heard and move ISEA forward for the coming year!

Quiz: Candy Bar Identification

2008-03-02T19:06:00.006-06:00

Baby Ruth or Snickers

Identify the Insides to Test Your Sweet Smarts

http://food.aol.com/play-with-your-food/candy-bar-id-quiz

AmeriCorps NCCC Opening New Iowa Campus, Seeking Recruits Now

2008-02-27T12:04:00.006-06:00

Des Moines - The AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps will be recruiting new members for its Iowa campus during Volunteer Awareness Day on February 26. The campus is set to open in July in Vinton. Of the 160 members and team leaders, 25 percent are expected to be Iowa residents.

“If you want to serve, the best way is to come to Vinton,” said David Eisner, CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service, which oversees NCCC. “NCCC members provide crucial aid to communities by focusing on needs that are determined by the communities themselves. We welcome eligible Iowa residents to our inaugural NCCC class in the state.”

NCCC director Merlene Mazyck explained that the first set of service projects will focus on Iowa communities. “With 14 teams deployed throughout the state, NCCC will help Iowa communities get things done while generating enthusiasm and interest about national service,” she said. During their service, NCCC members will undertake a variety of service projects in Iowa, in addition to traveling to surrounding states in the region. Besides the impact that NCCC members have in helping communities, the new campus is expected to add 20 jobs, and a payroll of $1.2 million, to the area.

Both Senator Tom Harkin and Governor Chet Culver have welcomed the new campus to the state. “For over a decade, AmeriCorps members from all over the country have served Iowans, and I welcome the National Civilian Community Corps to our state,” Harkin. Culver added, “The spirit of service is alive and well in Iowa, and especially in our young people. I encourage Iowans to take advantage of this great opportunity to give back to our communities, state, and country.”

AmeriCorps NCCC is a full-time, team-based residential program for men and women ages 18-24. NCCC members, assigned to one of four campuses, are organized into teams of 10-12 members and serve in local communities in every state responding to needs that are identified by community-based organizations. Approximately 1,100 members serve in NCCC each year. About 160 people between the ages of 18 and 24 will serve at the Iowa campus during its first year. NCCC is focusing its recruiting efforts on Iowa, with Iowa residents expected to account for 25 percent of the campus’s first class. For more information on AmeriCorps or to apply online, please visit http://www.americorps.gov/. The deadline for applying to the new Iowa campus is April 15, 2008.

Teams serve with local and national organizations, providing much needed skills and leading volunteers for Habitat for Humanity, the American Red Cross, and hundreds of other organizations. These dedicated and energetic young adults tutor students, construct and rehabilitate low-income housing, clean up streams, help communities develop emergency plans, and address other local needs. Trained in CPR, first aid, disaster response and firefighting, NCCC teams have responded to every national disaster since the program was established.

NCCC will be headquartered at the Iowa Braille and Sight Saving School. During their year of service, NCCC members based at the campus will undertake a variety of projects in the campus’s service area, which, in addition to Iowa, includes Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. NCCC’s other campuses are in Sacramento, Calif.; Denver, Colo.; and Perry Point, Md.

The Corporation for National and Community Service is a federal agency that improves lives, strengthens communities, and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. The Corporation administers Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, and Learn and Serve America. For more information, visit http://www.nationalservice.gov.

Better select, train teachers; expect more from all kids

2008-02-26T11:57:00.009-06:00

World-class schools for Iowa?

Des Moines Register Deputy Editorial Page Editor Linda Lantor Fandel is conducting question-and-answer sessions with Iowans and others as part of an ongoing examination of what it would take for Iowa to have world-class schools. Go to www.desmoinesregister.com/worldclassschools to read Fandel's blog about this issue and to share your ideas.

Please check out Linda Lantor Fandel's most recent interview with Iowa Department of Education Director Judy Jeffrey. Director Jeffrey shares her opinion on how in the future teachers should be selected and trained and what we should expect from students.

http://www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080226/OPINION01/802260360/1166/OPINION01

Raising standards, improving student achievement

2008-02-24T18:18:00.000-06:00

We are making progress on improving Iowa student achievement. The Legislature is increasing basic state aid to local schools, bringing teacher pay up to 25th in the nation, and making quality preschool available to all Iowa families.

The next step is approving statewide curriculum standards.

This week, the Senate Education Committee approved a Model Core Curriculum. This curriculum covers kindergarten through 12th grade in math and science. It also includes practical skills needed to be employed and successful in today’s world: literacy in health, finances, civics and technology.

The Model Core Curriculum will ensure that all Iowa students experience a rigorous program of study that prepares them for success in post-secondary education and the emerging global economy.

The curriculum is a roadmap for what students need to learn, suggestions for effective teaching, and specific measures to gauge student success. The hoped for results include more effective classrooms, increased accountability and improved student achievement. Our bottom line is helping students succeed in school and beyond.

The voices of parents, school board members, administrators and teachers guided the development of this legislation. I’m also listening to Iowa’s business community. They’ve made it clear that a successful state economy requires graduating students who have the skills for high-wage, high-skill jobs.

To learn more, visit the Iowa Department of Education web site at www.iowa.gov/educate/content/view/674.

New Dictionary Words 2007

2008-02-23T09:41:00.004-06:00

Do you know what "ginormous" and "crunk" mean? Test your cutting edge vocabulary with a fun quiz based on the new words Merriam-Webster is adding to their dictionary in 2007.

http://reference.aol.com/nowyouknow/new-words-2007

Below Zero Temps Don't Keep Hearty Team ISEA Leaders Away From Lobby Day

2008-02-20T18:31:00.028-06:00

A little wintry weather didn't keep Team ISEA leaders away from Des Moines and ISEA's Lobby Day today! Frigid temperature combined with wind chill made it feel like a minus 40 below zero and staff combined with leaders ventured to the Quality Inn and Suites to participate in our annual Lobby Day.

Hot coffee and sweet rolls hit the spot as we gathered awaiting the arrival of our first speaker. Folks from Nevada, Shenandoah, Hampton, Moulton, Fairfield, SE Polk, Mt. Pleasant, Centerville, Ft. Madison, Sioux City, Saydel, Des Moines and Iowa City were among the many locals represented.

A large contingent from both Davenport and Cedar Rapids had to cancel reservations to participate because of snow blocked and icy highways in eastern Iowa.

The first to address our group was Governor Chet Culver. Governor Culver, the only Governor in the nation to have served as a classroom teacher in the last twenty years, served as a high school Government teacher at Des Moines Hoover High School. Governor Culver fielded questions on Community College faculty salaries; students with mental health issues; and a Living Wage for Education Support Professionals.

We were treated to hearing from committee chairs from both House and Senate Education Committees today too! Representative Roger Wendt (on left) of Sioux City, a retired Middle School administrator and Senator Brian Schoenjahn (on the right) a retired Government teacher at Starmont addressed education issues that have worked their way through their standing committees.

ISEA Lobbyists Jon Studer (left) and Brad Hudson (right) shared with those gathered the education bills they continue to track that Team ISEA has said are our legislative priorities. Brad and Jon represent our 33,000 members every day at the state Capitol and work to inform legislators the priorities of our membership.

Representative Richard Anderson of Clarinda (center) discusses with Toni Graham, chair of ISEA's ESP standing committee (right) and Kevin Ericson (left) member of ISEA's Executive Board representing Mid-Iowa UniServ Unit issues he's working on.

Representative John Whitaker of Hillsboro shares conversation over lunch with Team ISEA's Bargaining and Rights Specialist Joann Mackin. All members of the General Assembly were invited to join us for lunch. We provided transportation for legislators on school buses driven by Team ISEA members from the Johnston Educational Support Professional Association.

Representative Eric Palmer of Oskaloosa (left) visits with Team ISEA leaders from Iowa City. A table full of Iowa City leaders braved ice-packed Interstate 80 to participate today.

Also joining us lunch today were Representative Paul Shomshor (left) of Council Bluffs; Representative Polly Bukta, retired teacher from Clinton; Representative McKinley Bailey of Webster City (second from right); and Team ISEA Student Program member from Drake University, Steve Chasse (right).

Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal (left) of Council Bluffs addressed the group over lunch. Senator Gronstal in addition to his remarks on education priorities of his caucus gave us an update on his two daughter. Senator Gronstal always gives tremendous credit for his daughters' success to the opportunities they were given in public school. Senator Gronstal chairs the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC) for the Democratic National Committee.

The last to address our group was Speaker of the House Pat Murphy (at right) of Dubuque. Speaker Murphy shared priorities of his caucus then listened to concerns from our members and answered questions before heading back to the Capitol.

With very busy schedules and high demands to have a few moments with our elected state legislators, we are most grateful for Governor Culver, Majority Leader Gronstal, Speaker Murphy and House and Senate members that could join us today!

Pay up! Merit pay won't solve school issues

2008-02-18T18:34:00.005-06:00

Here's an idea: Let's say workers at Mohawk Golf Course only get raises this year if golfers there score better than golfers at Page Belcher.

Let's keep it competitive. If Page Belcher golfers shoot more sub-par rounds than Mohawk folks, the pro over there gets a bump.

A few too many bogies, and he's out of luck.

To add more incentive, let's put in some bonus options: 10 bucks in the pocket of the course pro for every hole-in-one anyone shoots.

Sound crazy?

So is merit pay for teachers.

Unmerited idea: The run-government-like-a-business folks are once again suggesting phony ''free market'' ideas for public schools.

If my teachers work harder and their students do better, they should get paid better, the merit pay argument goes.

The idea seems to be especially appealing to legislators from suburbs, where students consistently do better on standardized tests.

Funny how suburbs have all the good teachers.

Funny and false.

In fact, there are as many hard-working, qualified and dedicated teachers in Tulsa as Jenks.

Jenks students do better in standardized test scores. But that's not because the district has better teachers.

If you can measure teaching by test results then you can measure the greenskeepers by the number of birdies on his course.

Jenks consistently does better on standardized tests because it has fewer students moving in and out of classes, more involved parents, fewer immigrants with language barriers and, in general, better opportunities.

Merit pay would only exacerbate the inequity of opportunities, because good teachers would be lured out of challenged schools.

The rich get richer, and the poor get children.

The Nutmeg State solution: When he was a graduate student at Yale, my brother-in-law taught part time at the University of Connecticut.

One day he asked another instructor what was up with a certain group of high-achieving students.

Oh, the instructor said, those are the students from the Education College.

In 1986, faced with bad standardized test results and other troubling indicators, Connecticut's legislature passed a revolutionary mandate: a $20,000 minimum teacher salary.

Before that, the state had teachers earning as little as $11,000 a year and the best teachers were being lured away to other states.

The turnaround was quick. Connecticut's education colleges started attracting brighter would-be teachers, and were able to raise the minimum academic standards for education majors. The state raised the standards for people applying for teaching credentials.

More money brought brighter kids and higher standards.

Connecticut's schools still have many of the same problems that Oklahoma's schools do, but does anyone think that having smarter, better-qualified teachers won't improve whatever problems schools face?

In 2005-6, the average teacher's salary in Connecticut was $59,304, second only to California.

As a result, Connecticut lures the best teachers away from Rhode Island and New York.

In Oklahoma, the average teacher earned $38,772. In Texas, it's $41,744.

Where would you go to work if you were a talented young teacher?

If you want better golf courses, you have to pay the pros.

Wayne Greene 581-8308 wayne.greene@tulsaworld.com

A Sweetheart Day in Lawton-Bronson

2008-02-14T19:08:00.068-06:00

Today is Valentine's Day and Lincolnway UniServ Director Myron Halverson and I teamed up again today to visit another one of the great locals in Lincolnway UniServ Unit. Our association road led us to Lawton-Bronson on yet another snowy Iowa morning.

We arrived before the school day began in Bronson to the elementary building of Pre-K through 5th grade. Myron is pictured (on the left) with Lincolnway UniServ President Mary Siepker and 1st grade teacher here at the Bronson elementary building. The Lawton-Bronson EA hosted a breakfast reception where we had a chance to meet many of the great staff members.

Our first classroom visit took us into the 4th grade classroom of birthday girl Mrs. Wendy Oates. I read aloud the picture book 17 Things I'm Not Allowed To Do Any More. The students were great listeners and they have such a fun day a head! Mrs. Oates and her 4th graders are pictured on the right.
Next I was off to the 2nd grade room of Laurie Amick. Laurie had me read the book Miss Nelson Is Missing. I love this book and the students loved it too! Mrs. Amick is pictured with her homeroom of 2nd graders on the left.

The final classroom visit at Bronson Elementary took us into the 1st grade class of Team ISEA leader Mary Siepker. Mary had me read Marc Brown's book Arthur's Valentine. In the story Arthur has a secret admirer. In the end Arthur finds out who his secret admirer is and gives her candy kisses. Ms. Siepker had little gift bags for each student filled with Hershey kisses for me to give each student. Pretty creative, don't you think! Ms. Siepker and her 1st graders are pictured here on the right.

As we were ready to leave, the children surprised me with hand-made Valentines. Thanks, boys and girls! I read them all when I returned home to my kitties. The cards were all so beautiful!

Before leaving the Bronson building, UniServ Director Myron and I had the chance to sit and visit with elementary principal Chad Shook. We discussed recent action of the Iowa General Assembly with Mr. Shook as well as the upcoming building project in which a new elementary will be built and ready to open for the 2009-2010 school year.

UniServ Director Myron and I were next off to Lawton to the Middle and High School building. When we arrived in the office we were greeted by Superintendent of Schools Jeff Thelander.

Mr. Thelander (pictured at right) made us a cup of tea to enjoy as we had a chance for conversation. We discussed the proposed core curriculum beginning to move through the Iowa Senate and the one cent sales tax as it currently in place and the proposed change moving through the Iowa House.[Note: Check out the University of Nebraska-Lincoln pennant on the wall! Mr. Thelander earned his Masters from UNL, I earned my Bachelor's degree from UNL--we became friends quickly!]

We had the chance to visit one classroom here in the Middle School. Seventh grade Language Arts and Reading teacher Beth Bellinghausen had Myron and I join in on teams as they played the game "Word Sweep". I was on a team with two great students that helped our team do well! Mrs. Bellinghausen had me share with the students some of the responsibilities I have in my job, then students had prepared questions for me.

Thank you so much Lawton-Bronson for your hospitality! You have amazingly great things going on in your school district!

Siouxland Tour Wraps Up With Reception and Unit Board Meeting

2008-02-14T18:41:00.009-06:00

On Wednesday, February 13th after a full day of visiting members throughout Siouxland UniServ Unit, the UniServ Leadership Team hosted a special reception at MacBears in Sioux City.

(on the right) Siouxland UniServ Unit Administrative Assistant Lori Boyd and Siouxland UniServ Director Bruce Lear joined in with their well wishes and thanks for the team effort during the special reception.

Siouxland UniServ Unit President Marlin Jeffers promptly called the meeting to order at 5:15 p.m. Reports were heard from ISEA's four state committees; each local in Siouxland gave a brief update; and we heard Bruce's UniServ Director's report and Marlin's Unit President's report.

So many leaders throughout Siouxland have been long-time, special friends. You have been my closest allies over the years....you were the first to contribute to my campaign when I ran for the Iowa House in 1992 and were supportive throughout my brief legislative career; and many Siouxlanders encouraged me to run for ISEA President.

Thank you my friends throughout Siouxland UniServ Unit for your friendship and support over the years. I look forward to our continued friendship as I head back to the classroom next fall! Thanks for all you do as leaders on Team ISEA!

Reconnecting With Great Friends at Western Iowa Technical Community College

2008-02-13T20:43:00.032-06:00

I always love seeing the folks at Western Iowa Technical Community College in Sioux City! Spending time with them is almost as good as spending time with my folks at home at Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs. There's something about sharing our western border that gives us that special bond.

One very special instructor here is Helen Lewis. Helen represents WIT on the ISEA Higher Education standing committee. Helen has tremendous enthusiasm and energy for her work as an instructor in the Humanities here at WIT as well as her leadership role on Team ISEA.

Also joining our conversation over coffee and cookies from the Humanities Department were Bea Houston (on left), an instructor in Spanish and Theresa M. Jackson (on the right) an English instructor.

(Pictured below) Past president of the Western Iowa Tech Higher Education Association, Brian Smith, stopped by briefly between classes today. Rhonda Briggs, an instructor in Psychology, was able to spend a bit more time visiting with us about issues of concern.

WIT Counselor Penny Schempp and current Western Iowa Tech Higher Education Association President Don Custer (below) joined in for conversation today too.

Conversations centered around WIT competing for students with a community college in South Sioux City, Nebraska; diversified staffing issues; professional development opportunities; community college faculty salaries and issues in state government; and a new venue to have voice in campus issues at the Faculty Forum.

The last of the faculty members of WIT to stop by for conversation were (below) Jim Wiederspan, Dr. Patricia Simmons, and Misty Kirwan.

Thank you my friends of Western Iowa Technical Community College Higher Education Association for your friendship and hospitality! I appreciate your advocacy for both the students and our Team ISEA members.

We are lucky to have you as leaders on Team ISEA!

Last Day of Siouxland Tour Begins at Office of Northwest Area Education Agency

2008-02-13T20:31:00.030-06:00

It was a treat to return to the home office this morning of Northwest Area Education Agency in Sioux City. Here my great friend and Chair of ISEA's AEA standing committee, Marlin Jeffers, has his office. Marlin, a staff development consultant, is pictured here (on the left) with Northwest AEA's Chief Administrator, Dr. Tim Grieves.

This is Dr. Grieves' first year heading up Northwest AEA. Dr. Grieves (on the right) previously served as an administrator in the Iowa City Community School District and most recently as the Superintendent of Schools in Spirit Lake.

We had a great conversation around current legislative initiatives, infrasturcture needs of the AEA's, as well as the direction of the Institute for Tomorrow's Workforce in which both Dr. Grieves and I serve on the board. We thank Dr. Grieves for his leadership!

Later in the day Marlin and I returned to the Northwest AEA office to a reception hosted by both PSA and ASPA (the professional and support staff associations). I'm pictured (above on left) with Cesar Narvaez a school Social Worker with Northwest AEA.

President of ASPA (Associate Professional Staff Association), Debbie Gibson (pictured at right) joined us for lunch and for the reception this afternoon.

A great crowd stopped by for conversation and delicious dessert treats during the 90 minute reception! It was a nice opportunity to experience the stories they shared and fun they have as a team that works together!

Thanks to all Team ISEA members at Northwest AEA for all you do every day on behalf of Iowa's students!

A Little Snow Doesn't Slow Us Down in Siouxland

2008-02-12T21:05:00.021-06:00

Northwest Iowa received anywhere from 4-6" of snow last night and many school districts in the area had late starts this morning. Unfortunately my visit to Sgt. Bluff-Lutton had to be canceled as their district was one of many to have a late start this morning.

My day didn't start until mid-morning, but when it did--it was on a high note with a return visit to West High School in Sioux City.

With the opportunity to tour the building and meet many staff, I had a chance to stop in the classroom of long-time friend, Ron Colling. Ron teaches Math here at West High School and continues to serve on the Negotiations Team for the Sioux City Education Association.

Sioux City Education Support Professional Association President, Leslie Dake (pictured on the left) works in the West High School office in Finance and Payroll. Pictured with Leslie is SCESP Association member Jodie Larson, a Media Assistant, selected by Team ISEA to represent us at the upcoming national meeting to be held in Baltimore, Maryland in March as an emerging leader at NEA's ESP Conference!

Marlin Jeffers (on the left) Chair of ISEA's Area Education Agency standing committee and President of Siouxland UniServ Unit is joined here with Steve Mullenberg, a School Psychologist with Northwest Area Education Agency. Steve works at West High School 2 1/2 days a week as part of his professional responsibilities.

As we returned to the office area to check out, I asked both our host Leslie Dake and Marlin Jeffers who joined us on our West High visit that I thought there was something "missing" here in the front foyer. They explained that the school mascot, a wolverine , had an "accident". The school is raising money to replace the mascot "Wooly".

Lunch today was at one of my all time favorite stops in Iowa here at Green Gables in Sioux City. I always have to have a cup of their matzo ball soup and a hot fudge sundae. Yum, all was just as delicious as always!

Joining us for lunch at Green Gables was Siouxland UniServ Unit Administrative Assistant, Lori Boyd. Lori is highly respected for her great work and well loved by members throughout all Siouxland UniServ Unit! Thanks for all you do on Team ISEA, Lori!

My afternoon took me to Whittier Elementary in the Sioux City Community School District. I had the chance to read to a number of classrooms this afternoon!

My first classroom visit took us in the room of 3rd grade teacher, Mrs. Larson. She is pictured with her homeroom (on the left).

Next two groups of 3rd grade joined together to hear the read aloud I shared. The two classrooms are pictured below with their teachers, Mr. Juelfs and Mr. Mason.

Nearing the end of the day our next visit took us into the room of Kindergarten teacher Mrs. Karrer. These were darling little kiddos that were so excited to help with the read aloud! Mrs. Karrer is pictured (on the right) with her homeroom.

The last classroom to visit before the end of the school day was in the Kindergarten classroom of long-time friend and great association activitist, Amy Snodgrass. Amy is pictured with her homeroom here on the left.

So when I feel a little tired at the end of my school visits, I think how I've had a pretty easy day compared to all the great educators I've visited throughout the day! You continue to do magic every day! Thanks for all you do every day for all Iowa's students!

A Call to All Team ISEA Members to Take Our Online Professional Development Survey

2008-02-12T20:42:00.012-06:00

Take our online professional development survey

As part of the continuing efforts by the ISEA to better serve members, the Building a Better Teaching and Learning Environment Committee (BBTLE) is seeking input on what professional development opportunities we should provide through our ISEA Professional Development Academy.

To help gather that feedback, the committee has designed separate surveys specifically targeted to specific membership groups.

Go to the ISEA website at http://www.isea.org/profdev/surveys.html

Click on the appropriate link listed below to login and complete the survey. And when you do, you'll become eligible to win one of several prizes including three free license renewal course registrations to the UniServ Unit with the highest number of responses and three "Get Up & Go" travel certificates. These certificates entitle the holder to a three-day/two-night hotel stay at one of 28 select locations across the nation including Orlando, Branson, Las Vegas, and more! Winners will be selected randomly from all who respond to the survey. If you have questions about the survey or if you do not have access to the internet, and need paper copies, contact Kathy Bosovich at (800) 445-9358, (515) 471-8052 or kbosovich@isea.org.

Take the survey for Pk-12 licensed professional educators employed by school districts

Take the survey for Area Education Agency licensed professional educators

Take the survey for Educational Support Professionals

Take the survey for Higher Education members

Siouxland Tour Begins With Sioux City Education Support Professionals Meeting

2008-02-11T19:09:00.000-06:00

A typical Iowa winter day.... driving through blowing snow in sub-zero temperature, I arrived in Sioux City in time to join SCESP members and leaders for one of three all-member meetings at Point After Pizza at the end of their work day.

Sioux City Education Support Professional Association (SCESP) President Leslie Dake (seated at left) made the special invitation for me to address the group she leads when she learned I was to visit Siouxland UniServ Unit. Leslie is a special leader--full of enthusiasm and a quick smile, wish we could duplicate her! Leslie also serves as a member of the ISEA-PAC Central Committee.

President Leslie discussed the Living Wage Campaign and the need for an all out, all member effort to make it successful. She went on to report on the ISEA Design a Decal competition and encouraged members to have the students they work with to participate; Read Across America is coming up and the need to make plans now; and encouraged all to contribute to both ISEA and NEA political action committees.

Damaria (Dee) Moore (at right) a Financial Advisor with Educators Financial Services, Inc. made a brief presentation to the SCESP members gathered.

Siouxland UniServ Director Bruce Lear (at left) addressed the group on the progress at the bargaining table. Bruce discussed several of the items that SCESP members had said on bargaining surveys were their top concerns.

For a reasonable fee, SCESP members enjoyed a delicious meal along with conversation. A half dozen folks won door prizes and money was collected to help with expenses when SCESP leaders participate in ISEA Delegate Assembly in early April.

Thank you Sioux City ESP members for your leadership in our education family! How lucky we are to have you on Team ISEA!

The NEA Foundation's 13th Annual "Salute to Excellence in Education" Gala

2008-02-10T16:28:00.000-06:00

On Friday evening February 8th The NEA Foundation hosted its 13th annual "Salute to Excellence in Education" Gala. The event was held at the The National Building Museum at 401 F Street, NW in Washington, D.C. Tiki Barber—correspondent for The Today Show, sports commentator for NBC, former New York Giants running back, and literacy champion—received The NEA Foundation Award for Outstanding Service to Public Education.

Barber, a three-time Pro Bowler who twice led the NFL in total rushing yards (2004 and 2005), retired from the New York Giants at the close of the 2006 season. He was recognized for promoting literacy to children and youths and for using his considerable influence to emphasize the value of education to young people and their families.

Announcing the 2008 Recipients of The Horace Mann

Awards for Teaching Excellence

As recipients of The Horace Mann Awards for Teaching Excellence, these five educators received a personal gift of $10,000 from the Horace Mann Companies. In addition, one of the five was selected to receive the NEA Member Benefits Award for Teaching Excellence and an additional $25,000. All nominees, including the recipients of the I CAN Learn Awards for Teaching Excellence, were honored at the gala.

Rachel Gifford, nominated by the Louisiana Association of Educators, is a science teacher at Carrie Martin Elementary School in Plain Dealing, Louisiana.

Karen Ginty, nominated by the New Jersey Education Association, is a kindergarten teacher at Monmouth Beach Elementary School in Monmouth Beach, New Jersey.

Douglas R. Graney, nominated by the Virginia Education Association, is a social studies teacher at Herndon High School in Herndon, Virginia.

Carole Darlene Moyer, nominated by the Ohio Education Association, is an early childhood education teacher at the Shepard Center in Columbus, Ohio.

Winner of....NEA Member Benefits Award for Teaching Excellence and an additional $25,000...

Lynette Wayne, nominated by Education Minnesota, is a first-grade teacher at Christa McAuliffe Elementary School in Hastings, Minnesota.

A Visit With Iowa Congressman Bruce Braley

2008-02-10T11:21:00.000-06:00

On Thursday afternoon February 7th following my morning NEA-PAC Council meeting at the NEA headquarters, I was able to join Iowa's two NEA Directors on their appointments with members of Iowa's Congressional delegation. Our NEA Directors on this visit to Washington, D.C. had appointments on Thursday with U.S. Senator Tom Harkin, Congressman Tom Latham, Congressman Leonard Boswell, and Congressman Bruce Braley. Both Directors had a late afternoon meeting back at the NEA building and I was able to represent Iowa in calling upon Congressman Dave Loebsack.

Iowa's two NEA Directors are Jim Young (on far left, below) a 4th grade teacher at Hansen Elementary in Cedar Falls and Kathy Williams (on far right, below) a 7th grade Reading and Language Arts teacher at Wood Middle School in Davenport.

Here we are pictured at the end of our appointment with Iowa's 2nd District Congressman Bruce Braley of Waterloo. Congressman Braley is serving his first term in Congress and is demonstrating he's a real champion for students and public education!

Meeting with U.S.Senator Grassley in Washington, D.C.

2008-02-06T20:41:00.000-06:00

NEA state affiliate presidents and NEA Directors have begun to arrive in Washington, D.C. for NEA's "Super Week". Traditionally I arrive on Wednesday in order to participate with other state presidents in a meeting with Team NEA President Reg Weaver on Wednesday evening. This week I arrived on Monday in order to participate in a day-long meeting on Tuesday for "outgoing" state presidents.

In addition, NEA Directors participate in a "Legislative Briefing" on Thursday morning, then have the remainder of the day filled with appointments with their state's Members of Congress.

On Thursday mornings following the Legislative Briefing, state presidents meet as they make up the "NEA-PAC Council". I generally join our two NEA Directors with their appointments following my NEA-PAC Council meeting.

Friday mornings state presidents meet as a group with various NEA staff and the NEA Board of Directors meet all day Friday and Saturday until mid-afternoon.

Iowa's United States Senator Charles Grassley was unable to meet with our NEA Directors on Thursday, so arrangements were made for NEA Director Kathy Williams of Davenport and I to meet with Senator Grassley this afternoon.

It is rare that our NEA Directors actually meet with one of our two U.S.Senators, they usually meet with their education legislative assistants. Today, Kathy and I were in for a treat as we actually met with U.S. Senator Charles Grassley and his education legislative assistant James Rice.

Today we discussed funding for the 2009 education budget to include increases in Title I funding as well as raising the federal commitment to Special Education funding from 17.2% to 20%. The federal government promised 30 years ago that it would fund at the 40% level. We, as you can see, are far from that funding level.

Pictured below are Kathy Williams, United States Senator Charles Grassley and myself.

Dancing Across Iowa

2008-01-31T18:29:00.000-06:00

Now this is one way to see all the great sites across the state of Iowa!

Watch the YouTube video of Where in Iowa is Jeff?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KsWBD3UPfg4&feature=related

Road to MBUU Locals Leads Us to Durant

2008-01-31T17:19:00.000-06:00

Our Thursday morning led MBUU Director Lynette Claeys and I to Durant to visit several classrooms in the Middle and Elementary schools.

After checking in the office, we stopped by the Art classroom of Dawn Cunningham (pictured at right). The 6th graders in Dawn's Art class were using tools to cut into linoleum for print making. There were some pretty intent looking faces! The projects were very detailed and will make some awesome prints!

Dawn made arrangements for our visit today. Thanks, Dawn!

We were next off to the classroom of Sandy Allender. Sandy (on the left) is pictured with MBUU Director Lynette Claeys (on the right). Sandy teaches 5th and 6th grade Math, Reading and English. Half of her day is spent working with the 6th grade, the other half with 5th graders. She shared how she love "looping"--where she works with the same students in 5th grade and again when they are 6th graders.

I spoke briefly to the class then we had the chance to observe Sandy working hand-in-hand with a Special Education teacher in their Math class. Today's lesson was on improper fractions. One teacher took the role of Ms. Pictoral and drew pictures to make sense of the Math lesson. The other teacher took on the role of Ms. "Anna" lytical where she went directly to a mathmatical equation to solve the problem. The team of teachers working together was a great example of how "inclusion" can work!

The last classroom we had the chance to visit was that of Katie Rezac. Katie (pictured at left) leads a Level 3 classroom. This is Katie's first year here in Durant. Previously Katie taught a Life Skills class for 2 years in Tipton. The Durant Community Schools had paid tuition for the students in Katie's room (now) to participate in classes in other districts. Now the students whose homes are in the Durant district are here in their home school district.

As the class period came to an end, students from general education classes entered the room to walk with students in Katie's room to the next class where they would be in the same classroom next hour. Neat things are going on here in Katie's room and in the Durant Community Schools!

The last important "student" that we met was Kirby (short, black furry guy here on the right). Kirby belongs to the school principal and he's a "therapy" dog. Mrs. Rezac shared with us that when Kirby comes into their classroom and lies down in the front of the room, students gather around and read to him or do their Math facts for him. Like I said, great things are going on in the Durant Community Schools!

NEA Member Benefit Partners Make Presentation Before Quad City School Districts

2008-01-30T20:38:00.000-06:00

At the end of the school day today educators and district administrators in the Quad-City metro area gathered at the Pleasant Valley High School Media Center to hear about IRS changes.

John Roloff (from left to right), Craig Schutte, and Kent Schutte all from Educators Financial Services, Inc. presented changes to 403(b) and on 457 compliance.

School Superintendents, Business Managers, Association bargainers as well as teachers and support staff attended the hour long information session.

It was great to see our NEA Member Benefit partners have the opportunity to share their knowledge of recent IRS changes to area educators!

Mississippi Bend UniServ Unit Tour Begins in North Scott Community Schools

2008-01-30T20:12:00.000-06:00

Mississippi Bend UniServ Director Lynette Claeys and I started our day today in the North Scott Community Schools at Neil Armstrong Elementary.

Our first classroom stop was in the Kindergarten classroom of Joyce Orcutt. Joyce is a long-time association leader and continues to serve Team ISEA on the ISEA-PAC Central Committee.

Today I read the book 17 Things I'm Not Allowed To Do Anymore to Joyce's Kindergarten class. The students were great listeners and often gasped at the many things the main character did!

The second classroom stop was in the Special Education classroom of teacher Jodie Brotherton. Jodie shared with us the difference her direct instruction using "Corrective Reading" by SRA is making with her students. She then demonstrated a lesson with 5th grade student Bryce (pictured at left). Jodie's students have made tremendous growth using this technique over their scores from last school year!

Mrs. Brotherton worked with 4th grade student Paul (at right) on word recognition. Paul demonstrated his skills in "chunking" word parts.

There are great things happening here at Neil Armstrong Elementary! I am always so impressed in how teachers know each and every one of their students strengths and what skills they need to focus their instruction on. Thanks for your leadership in the classroom and in the association, Joyce and Jodie!

A Return Trip to Children's Village West in Davenport

2008-01-29T17:53:00.001-06:00

On Tuesday morning, January 29th as Great River UniServ Director Linda Schneider and I arrived at Children's Village West, this (below) is what nearly knocked us off our feet!

The children's giggles were infectious! They were all so intent in peddling, they weren't really watching where they were going! Doesn't this look like fun?!

Children's Village West had originally been built as a grocery store! Four years ago the Davenport Community School District opened the doors to numerous pre-school programs here all under one roof! The center part of the building is where the multi-purpose room is located with classrooms around the outside rim.

Today we were here to visit the classroom of long-time DEA activist and a first class educator, Nancy Gesy (pictured with me on the left). UniServ Director Schneider and I had the chance to observe Nancy direct instruction to high school Juniors and Seniors from the three Davenport high schools.

Ms. Gesy's lesson walked the high schoolers through a music activity where all gathered in a circle and proceeded to sing and act out the various gestures to go along with the song. The students then all moved to tables where they wrote out the activity on to cards in which this activity will be added to their collections. Their cards included not only the step by step process, but materials needed, and benchmark/goals.

Before we (Great River UniServ Director Linda Schneider on the left)moved on to another classroom, Nancy Gesy led her dozen students into the room of toddlers where the high school leaders snuggled up to read with individual children! The high school students are gaining tremendous skills not only to make them terrific parents, but to prepare them for a profession to work with children!

Our last classroom visit introduced us to Shirley McLemore (pictured at right). Shirley is a "coach" for the Fast Forward program. The Davenport Community School District secured a technology grant for all five Children's Village centers to have the youngest students have the opportunity to use computers.

Coaches Shirley and Julie here at Children's Village West have done preliminary work--working with students on matching games and shapes to prepare them for their first visit to the computer lab.

Thanks for your leadership to all Team Davenport EA here at Children's Village West. You have such exciting opportunities for all your students!

Davenport EA Holds Monthly Faculty Rep Meeting

2008-01-29T14:20:00.000-06:00

On Monday afternoon, January 28th I drove to Davenport in time for their 4:15 p.m. monthly Faculty Rep meeting held at North High School. As I entered the Media Center the first to greet me was Davenport Community School District Superintendent of Schools, Mr. Julio Almanza. Mr. Almanza addressess the DEA Faculty Rep meeting each month! He is pictured here with Davenport EA President Jodie Tupper.

As Davenport EA Faculty Reps arrived they had the opportunity to purchase snacks and beverages--the entire profit going to help with expenses for DEA members when attending ISEA and NEA events.

I was very impressed with the many reports presented by leaders within the DEA! Five years ago Team ISEA began the process of realigning our state committees. Team ISEA has four state committees in which it was our hope this would be mirrored throughout the organization--at the UniServ Unit level as well as at the Local EA level. Well, Davenport EA--BRAVO! Committee leaders reported from all four committees!

The Davenport EA does so many things right! How lucky we are to have great, dedicated leaders serving Team ISEA! Thanks for all you do DEA leaders!

Lincolnway Tour Wraps Up With Visit to Audubon

2008-01-27T16:42:00.001-06:00

The snow was flying, but as all good Iowans...we are hearty folk and braved the elements with a visit to Audubon on Wednesday afternoon.

Once each month the Audubon High School staff brings dishes for a noontime potluck. We are in luck, they had their monthly lunch of homemade goodies to share with us on Wednesday!

We walked our lunch off with a tour of the new addition! Giving us a tour of the building was Superintendent of Schools, Mr. Brett Gibbs. The building that once housed only the High School is now also home to the Middle School. Beautiful new classrooms for the Middle Schoolers and an all new Media Center were some of the highlights of the tour! We also were guests in the 5th grade classroom of Nicki Olsen. The 5th graders all did a shared reading for Black History Month which highlighted parts of famous speeches. The students did an awesome job!

One more school to visit! UniServ Director Myron and I were next off to Audubon Elementary. The elementary also had some major renovations and additions! I had the chance to read to Monica Jones' class in the new Media Center. The center is a most inviting area!

Just off to one side of the elementary Media Center is the school's Computer Lab. Here we had a chance to see the 4th grade class of Chris Jensen practice their keyboarding skills.

On the right I am pictured with longtime friend and association leader, Chris Jensen. Chris is a 4th grade teacher at Audubon Elementary.

Our day ended back at Audubon High School in the Vocal Music room of Gary Kellar. Gary (pictured on the left) is a longtime member of ISEA-PAC Central Committee.

Members of the Audubon EA gathered in Gary's room for an association meeting at the end of their school day.

Audubon EA President LaDona Jergenson (seated at left) led the monthly meeting of the Audubon EA. In addition to her local leader role, LaDona serves as the Lincolnway UniServ Rep on the ISEA Executive Board. Thanks LaDona for your leadership on Team ISEA!

Thanks to all in Audubon for the great afternoon. You have much to be proud of in your growing school district! Thanks for all you do for Iowa's students!

Wednesday Begins In IKM

2008-01-27T15:26:00.001-06:00

On Wednesday, January 23rd our day began in Manilla at the IKM Middle School. I was the guest speaker for the entire student body of 5th through 8th graders and my topic, leadership and responsibilities! They were a friendly audience and the teachers helped out a great deal by adding additional avenues for the conversation to head.

I had met many of the teachers the night before in Manning at the reception for the beginning of a new era where Manning and IKM will join as one district next year. It was great to see the teachers on their own "turf" doing their magic, working with students!

The Lincolnway UniServ Unit Tour continued in IKM with a visit to the elementary building in Irwin. Here I had the chance to read a "p" book on penguins to Bonnie Cairney's Pre-School class. They were just so cute!

Next, I read to Sally Simdorn’s class who had a substitute teacher for the day. Here are the classroom of 4th graders (on the left)!

The next read aloud was in the homeroom of Jennifer Rasmussen. Jennifer and her 1st grade are pictured on the right.

Next, I read aloud to Tanya Gaer's homeroom. Tanya and her 2nd graders are pictured on the left.

The final classroom read aloud here in Irwin was in the homeroom of Dian Schmiedeskamp. Dian and her 1st graders are pictured on the right.

Thanks for your hospitality, IKM! Your students are receiving a top-notch education because of your leadership! Thanks for all you do for Iowa's students!

A Reception Honoring Two Districts Entering a New Era

2008-01-27T14:49:00.000-06:00

At the end of our day on Tuesday, January 22nd, the association road led us to Manning High School. The Manning EA hosted a reception in the Media Center for teachers in the IKM Community Schools (Irwin, Kirkman, and Manilla) to meet their teachers as next school year begins a new era for them....they will join together as one district.

Nearly forty teachers from the combined two districts attended. There was time for introductions, conversation and snacks!

This evening also marked the last time that Manning and IKM basketball teams would face off on the court as opponents. The FFA was hosting a spaghetti dinner prior to the start of the game too.

Association leaders explained to us that they have been sharing programs in High School for a number of years as well as jointly conducting staff development. It was fun to listen in on conversations as planning was taking place with teachers that will be working alongside one another next school year!

One last photo for the day(below) of the joint leadership of IKM EA and Manning EA. From left to right-- Nancy Kloewer, IKM EA; myself; Jinny Rasmussen, IKM EA; and Kathy Lage, Manning EA.

We wish you the best as you continue down the path of building greater opportunities for all your students. You are to be held up as models for so many other districts that are in the intial stages of sharing.

Thanks for all you do as instructional leaders as well as for your leadership on Team ISEA!

Tuesday Afternoon Takes us to Carroll

2008-01-27T14:23:00.001-06:00

Following a full morning in the ArWeVa Community Schools, Lincolway UniServ Director Myron Halverson and I were off to Carroll.

Our first afternoon stop was at Carroll Middle School where we had the chance to drop in on four different 7th grade homerooms and talk about the importance of assessments; ITBS in particular.

We next were given a tour of the Carroll Middle School, then had a chance to sit and visit with the 7th grade team of Karen Schouten, LaJean Olson, Jolene Stork, Katie McQueen, and Barb Hoffman as they finished their lunches.

Before heading out, I spoke to Dale Schmidt's 8th grade social studies class. The students had prepared questions for me about the role of ISEA for Iowa's educators as well as on the impact state government has on Iowa's schools.

Back in the van and off to Fairview Elementary where I read aloud to Jewel Proctor's 1st grade. Here Mrs. Proctor is pictured (on the right) with her students.

Next stop, Adams Elementary to read to Tonia Onken's class. For a late in the afternoon visit on a snowy Iowa day...the children really involved themselves in the read aloud and we had a delightful time!

We returned to Carroll Middle School to speak to Jana Rector’s homeroom class on "leadership and responsibility" before the end of the school day. As students left, I sat down with the Carroll newspaper for an interview.

Thanks, Carroll EA for the invitation to visit. It was a treat to meet you all and see the great things going on in your classrooms!

Lincolnway Tour Begins in ArWeVa

2008-01-24T18:34:00.001-06:00

On Tuesday, January 22nd, Lincolnway UniServ Director Myron Halverson and I headed to Westside to a before school reception (at 7:15 a.m.) with the ArWeVa EA. The communities of Arcadia, Westside and Vail make up the ArWeVa Community School District. Pictured here (on the right) is ArWeVa EA President Dan Spooner. Dan is a Technology Specialist both in ArWeVa and Coon Rapids/Bayard. Thanks, Dan for your leadership on Team ISEA!

ArWeVa EA members stopped in at the High School building on this wintry Iowa morning before heading to their classrooms throughout the district. We enjoyed pastries, coffee, juice and conversation!

UniServ Director Myron and I were next off to Vail to visit elementary classrooms and read aloud a favorite book.

The first classroom visit took me to the Pre-K room of Janet Edward (below on left). Next we were off to the 1st grade room of Jane Clarke (pictured on the right).

The last classroom visits here in Vail was to the 2nd grade classrooms of Pam Dunsmore (on the left-below) and Lori Oeser (on the right).

Our last stop in the ArWeVa Community Schools is in Arcadia. Here UniServ Director Myron carries in the box of ISEA pencils! The "mood" pencils are always popular with students and leave a reminder behind that ISEA works hard so all Iowa students have a great public school!

Classroom visits here in Arcadia included reading to Ruth Noelck's 5th grade (on left, above) along with school principal Rosemary Cameron Kunze. Donna Ricker's 4th grade is on the right.

Final classroom stops included Lodean Kastner's 3rd grade (on the left, above) and the Phys Ed class of Dayne Teske (on the right).

Our visits to all three communities of ArWeVa gave us a great start to my Lincolnway UniServ Unit tour! Thanks to all ArWeVa EA members for opening your classrooms to visitors to see the magic you do every day!

2008 NEA Midwest Regional Leadership Conference Held in Minneapolis Over the Weekend

2008-01-21T10:13:00.000-06:00

One hundred members of Team ISEA braved the frigid wintery Midwest weather to participate in the 2008 Midwest Regional Leadership Conference on January 18-20 in Minneapolis, MN. This year's conference theme was "One Message, Many Voices...Advocate for Great Public Schools in 2008: We Elect to Impact Our World".

Friday evening was kicked off with a keynote address from NEA Vice President Dennis Van Roekel (at right). Dennis was born and raised in Iowa! His first teaching assignment was in Muscatine, IA. The evening was topped off with a wonderful dessert reception hosted by NEA Member Benefits and it partner companies.

Participants from the nine state Midwest Regional had the opportunity to select from numerous breakout sessions to build their skills as local leaders.

Team NEA President Reg Weaver (pictured at left) addressed the conference on Saturday following lunch. Reg gave a rousing speech that inspired all gathered.

Nearly all of Team ISEA members gathered for our "Iowa Night Out" at The News Room restaurant just one block from our hotel. We were most grateful of the proximity because by Saturday evening the temperatures dipped to a minus 35 degrees windchill!

Team ISEA's Leadership Team is most proud of the generosity of all participants in contributing to the NEA Fund for Children and Public Education. We had 100% participation with an Iowa average contribution of $46.58. Thanks, Team ISEA for your contributions to the NEA Fund for Children and Public Education!

On Sunday morning a special guest made an appearance before the regional leadership conference, Cat in the Hat! Here (on the right) Team ISEA Treasurer Paula Logan and I are pictured with Cat in the Hat! Team NEA provided all participants with a packet to take home and get started on making plans for Read Across America celebrations in communities all across America!

To send off all Team NEA members gathered on a high note, NEA Secretary-Treasurer Lily Eskelsen shared an inspiring message to carry us all home.

I had the chance to visit with many of our Iowa team as they headed towards their homes and all shared how excited they were to take home the new knowledge to continue to build their local association. Thanks to all for making this a memorable experience for your colleagues of Team ISEA!

U.S. Senator Tom Harkin's Staff Reaches Out to Hear from Iowa Special Ed Teachers on Impact of NCLB

2008-01-16T11:21:00.000-06:00

On Tuesday afternoon, January 15th two representatives from U.S. Senator Tom Harkin's staff met with five Iowa Special Education teachers from Des Moines metro schools to hear from them on the impact of the No Child Left Behind law on their students.

Rob Barron (left) is Senator Harkin's education policy person in Washington, D.C. and Bev Schroeder (on the right) worked for Senator Harkin for eleven years in Washington, D.C. as the Senator's education policy person, now working here out of his Des Moines office requested this meeting to have a conversation with those working on the front lines every day.

Melinda Aeschliman (on the left) Saydel Middle School Special Education teacher shared how up to 25% of their school population is identified with an IEP (Individualized Education Plan).

Hillary Faber (below, on left) and Peg Stockdale (on the right), both West Des Moines Valley High School Special Education teachers were a part of our conversation.

Joining us from the Waukee Community School District was Kris Powell (at right). Kris teaches K-3 Special Education at Brookview Elementary and is a fifth year teacher. Kris previously has taught in Indianola and Norwalk.

Another Waukee Community School District Special Education teacher to join us was Jenny Madsen. Jenny currently teaches in the Waukee Middle School with previous experience at Harding Middle School in Des Moines.

Rob started the conversation by saying not everyone has the chance to go to Washington, D.C. to meet with policy makers so on behalf of U.S. Senator Harkin, Rob brought the opportunity to us!

The first issues in our conversation centered around co-teaching. All felt that general education teachers had the student's best interest at heart, but not all were given professional development opportunities to grow and learn in this area.

Other areas of discussion included: Least Restrictive Environment (LRE); Assessments; Alternative Assessments; Services provided by the Area Education Agencies; and Negative and (Positive) Reinforcement for meeting Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP).

It was a powerful conversation! Having the opportunity to hear from professionals that are passionate about providing the greatest opportunities for students in their classrooms was a moving experience! We are grateful to have a United States Senator who reaches out to those in the classroom that work directly with students! Thanks, Rob and Bev for providing the opportunity!

2008 ISEA Legislative Conference Held in Des Moines Over the Weekend

2008-01-14T10:59:00.001-06:00

In preparation for the 2008 Iowa General Assembly convening, Team ISEA held its annual Legislative Kickoff on January 11-12 at the Quality Inn & Suites Event Center.

Over 200 members and staff gathered to hear from Team ISEA lobbyists, NEA staff and state Legislative leaders about the issues we can expect the Iowa General Assembly to take action on this session.

The presidents of the Large 8 Locals met prior to the start of the conference over dinner; Unit Presidents gathered for an early morning breakfast on Saturday; Higher Ed held a caucus over their Saturday breakfast; and AEA members met both Friday evening and again Saturday morning--all taking advantage of the opportunity to visit about issues important to their constituency.

ISEA Chief Lobbyist, Brad Hudson, shares with Team ISEA members gathered the priorities for the upcoming session.

Team ISEA Executive Director, Jan Reinicke, shared background information on what is now Iowa's voluntary core curriculum and set the stage for "Table Talk" discussion on voluntary vs. mandatory standards. Members were given the opportunity to begin the discussion with colleagues from across the state.

The conference opened on Saturday morning with participants hearing from Team NEA policy person, Joel Packer. Joel Packer has been the lead staff person for Team NEA in the reauthorization effort for the No Child Left Behind law.

The first of two legislative panels included Representative Mike May of Spirit Lake (on the left), Ranking Member on the House Education Committee; and Representative Roger Wendt of Sioux City (in the center), Chair of the House Education Committee. Both Rep. Wendt and Rep. May are retired educators.

Our second set of panelist are legislative leaders (having invited both House and Senate Republican and Democratic leaders). State Senator Mike Gronstal, Senate Majority Leader from Council Bluffs (on the left); and Speaker of the House Pat Murphy (on the right) from Dubuque both willingly came before Team ISEA members on their last weekend prior to the start of the session on Monday.

Throughout our Legislative Conference Team ISEA professional staff union (NSO) and ISEA Executive Board and Unit Presidents worked to raise funds for ISEA-PAC. UniServ Unit leaders donated lovely gifts for a drawing that was held Saturday right before our lunch break. The totals raised are phenomenal!

Friday evening: $2,350
Saturday morning: $ 836
Blue Light Special: $544
LIVE AUCTION: $987.50

Total raised for ISEA-PAC: $4,717.50

Congressman Leonard Boswell (D-CD3) was able to join us on Saturday (pictured at right) and served as our auctioneer!

Lt. Governor Patty Judge (pictured on left) topped off our Legislative Conference as our keynote speaker at lunch on Saturday. Team ISEA members had the opportunity to not only thank Lt. Governor Judge (and Governor Culver) for their leadership in the 2007 banner legislative session for Iowa's students and educators, but to hear a few of their priorities for the 2008 session.

It was another terrific gathering of our Team ISEA family. Members headed to their home communities with a purpose--that of staying connected to state policy makers and to have their voices heard on issues that impact students, educators and our profession!

Lighten Up Iowa

2008-01-13T15:20:00.000-06:00

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Des Moines Education Association Faculty Rep Meeting

2008-01-13T14:07:00.000-06:00

On Thursday, January 10th I attended the DMEA Faculty Rep meeting at Des Moines East High School.

DMEA leaders arrive early to gather materials in preparation for the 4:15 p.m. start time.

Des Moines Education Association President, Alan Young, leads the monthly Facutly Rep meeting.

Agenda items include reports from numerous association committees as well as from Faculty Reps that represent the DMEA on school district committees. I spoke briefly to the assembled DMEA leaders of Team ISEA's goals and complimented all DMEA leaders for their tremendous effort in successfully raising the numbers of members participating in contributing to ISEA-PAC. DMEA went a few years ago from 40% to now over 80% participating!

At one point of the Faculty Rep meeting agenda newly named DMEA Executive Director Greg Harris announced the leaders gathered were to divide into three groups: Elementary, Middle and High School. Each group was led by a team of DMEA Executive Board members to have leaders share out concerns from their buildings. After brainstorming of ideas, leaders narrowed the list to the top three concerns for President Young and Executive Director Harris to begin to tackle.

January 10th was the end of the semester for Des Moines Public Schools and the next day...grades were due! It was a great turnout of DMEA leaders from throughout the entire school district.

Thanks DMEA for the invitation to participate! And thanks for all you do as leaders on Team ISEA!