Citizens and schools speak out on RTTT flaws
16 years ago
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Tell Lawmakers “Me Too!”
Tell lawmakers “Me too!” on 3-year limit on 3 percent retirement contribution
MEA calling on Legislature to match sunset provision granted to state employees last week.
Last week, the Legislature passed a retirement bill for state employees similar to what passed for school employees last spring. However, since then, lawmakers have heard your angry reaction about the additional 3 percent of salary going towards retiree health insurance, forcing them to think twice about the state employee bill. This prompted a compromise in last week’s state employee retirement package – a three-year limit on the 3 percent retirement health insurance contribution by state employees.
This week, lawmakers need to hear from school employees again, this time with a simple message – “Me too!”
In the interest of fairness and consistency, MEA is calling on the Legislature to amend school employees’ additional 3 percent retirement contribution to include the same three-year limit they included for state employees. If it was the right thing to do for state workers, then it’s the right thing to do for school employees and their families, many of whom are now struggling with total payments into the retirement system of between 7 and 12 percent!
Contact your state representative and senator today and urge them to take up this issue and do what is right for Michigan’s dedicated school employees and communities. You can find contact information for your lawmakers here.
MEA calling on Legislature to match sunset provision granted to state employees last week.
Last week, the Legislature passed a retirement bill for state employees similar to what passed for school employees last spring. However, since then, lawmakers have heard your angry reaction about the additional 3 percent of salary going towards retiree health insurance, forcing them to think twice about the state employee bill. This prompted a compromise in last week’s state employee retirement package – a three-year limit on the 3 percent retirement health insurance contribution by state employees.
This week, lawmakers need to hear from school employees again, this time with a simple message – “Me too!”
In the interest of fairness and consistency, MEA is calling on the Legislature to amend school employees’ additional 3 percent retirement contribution to include the same three-year limit they included for state employees. If it was the right thing to do for state workers, then it’s the right thing to do for school employees and their families, many of whom are now struggling with total payments into the retirement system of between 7 and 12 percent!
Contact your state representative and senator today and urge them to take up this issue and do what is right for Michigan’s dedicated school employees and communities. You can find contact information for your lawmakers here.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Patrick Miles Campaign News
We have two very important meetings scheduled. Please publicize to all KCEA members:
October 4 5:00pm Education rally --Patrick Miles @ Grand Rapids Central High School Lyon/College NE
October 19, 2010, 7pm Public Forum at the Central Michigan University building. Meet a candidate for the 3rd Congressional race. Sponsored jointly by the KCEA and Grassroots.
Members are invited to participate and listen and meet Pat Miles, our endorsed 3rd district candidate.
October 4 5:00pm Education rally --Patrick Miles @ Grand Rapids Central High School Lyon/College NE
October 19, 2010, 7pm Public Forum at the Central Michigan University building. Meet a candidate for the 3rd Congressional race. Sponsored jointly by the KCEA and Grassroots.
Members are invited to participate and listen and meet Pat Miles, our endorsed 3rd district candidate.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Get Involved Now
The primary election is just 12 days away! To ensure that friends of public education win on August 3 and move on to November’s general election, we need to ensure MEA members get out and Vote!
Phone Banks
Are you interested in volunteering your time to make calls to members about MEA’s recommended candidates? You can sign now by going to http://www.lsea.org/phonebank/ to schedule a time to make calls or contact your local UniServ office to schedule a time to make calls during their scheduled phone banking time.
If you volunteer to make calls to fellow MEA members, you will be provided with names, phone numbers and a scripted message specific to MEA candidates, with emphasis on the voting for Virg Bernero in the Governor’s race.
If you would like to make calls to voters on behalf of the Bernero Campaign from your own home, please contact Steve Ross, Field Director, at steveross1986@gmail.com, or call the Bernero campaign at 517.999.8696 or contact their Volunteer Coordinator at MichaelBerkowitz@votevirg.com. They will email a list of names and phone numbers to call along with a script and any other directions they may have.
Bernero Field Events for this Week (If you have questions regarding these events and activities, contact Steve Ross or Michael Berkowitz at their contact listed above.)
Wednesday, July 21st
Phone Bank at Lansing Campaign Headquarters
Volunteer Shifts: 10AM – Noon, Noon – 2PM, 4 – 6PM, 6 – 8PM
Thursday, July 22nd
Phone Bank at Lansing Campaign Headquarters
Volunteer Shifts: 10AM – Noon, Noon – 2PM, 4 – 6PM, 6 – 8PM
Battle Creek Canvass
Meet in Parking Lot G near the Soccer Field at Kellogg Community College, 450 North Avenue
Volunteer Shifts begin at 1PM
Carpools leave Lansing Campaign HQ at 11:45AM
Friday, July 23rd
Phone Bank at Lansing Campaign Headquarters
Volunteer Shifts: 10AM – Noon, Noon – 2PM, 4 – 6PM, 6 – 8PM
Ann Arbor Art Fair Canvass
Meet in the Kroger Parking Lot, 400 South Maple Street
Volunteer Shifts: Noon – 3PM, 3PM – 6PM, 6PM – 9PM
Carpools leave Lansing Campaign HQ at 10:30AM
Saturday, July 24th
Ann Arbor Canvass and Art Fair
Meet in the Kroger Parking Lot, 400 South Maple Street
Volunteer Shifts: Noon – 3PM, 3PM – 6PM
Flint Canvass
Meet at the Cherry / Kildee Campaign Headquarters located at 877 East 5th Avenue (5th Avenue and South Saginaw Street)
Volunteer Shifts begin at 10:00 a.m. on Mon/Wed. and 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. other days of the week.
Anthony Panneck is the Flint Organizer and can be reached at apanneck@hotmail.com or 405.812.3417. They have 7 cell phones available for phone banking.
Pontiac Canvass
Meet at Washington Middle School at 710 Menominee
Volunteer shifts begin at noon
Southfield Canvass
Meet at Southfield – Lathrup High School, 19301 West 12 Mile Road
Volunteer Shifts begin at 1PM and 3:30PM
Sunday, July 25th
Muskegon Canvass
Meet in the parking lot of the Muskegon County South Campus Building, Corner of Apple Ave and Pine St
Volunteer shifts begin at 2PM and 4PM
Carpools leave Lansing Campaign HQ at 12:15PM
Monday, July 26th
Grand Rapids Canvass
Meet at Wilcox Park at 100 Youell SE (Robinson at Wilcox Park Drive SE)
Volunteer shifts begin at 1PM and 3:30PM
Phone Banks
Are you interested in volunteering your time to make calls to members about MEA’s recommended candidates? You can sign now by going to http://www.lsea.org/phonebank/ to schedule a time to make calls or contact your local UniServ office to schedule a time to make calls during their scheduled phone banking time.
If you volunteer to make calls to fellow MEA members, you will be provided with names, phone numbers and a scripted message specific to MEA candidates, with emphasis on the voting for Virg Bernero in the Governor’s race.
If you would like to make calls to voters on behalf of the Bernero Campaign from your own home, please contact Steve Ross, Field Director, at steveross1986@gmail.com, or call the Bernero campaign at 517.999.8696 or contact their Volunteer Coordinator at MichaelBerkowitz@votevirg.com. They will email a list of names and phone numbers to call along with a script and any other directions they may have.
Bernero Field Events for this Week (If you have questions regarding these events and activities, contact Steve Ross or Michael Berkowitz at their contact listed above.)
Wednesday, July 21st
Phone Bank at Lansing Campaign Headquarters
Volunteer Shifts: 10AM – Noon, Noon – 2PM, 4 – 6PM, 6 – 8PM
Thursday, July 22nd
Phone Bank at Lansing Campaign Headquarters
Volunteer Shifts: 10AM – Noon, Noon – 2PM, 4 – 6PM, 6 – 8PM
Battle Creek Canvass
Meet in Parking Lot G near the Soccer Field at Kellogg Community College, 450 North Avenue
Volunteer Shifts begin at 1PM
Carpools leave Lansing Campaign HQ at 11:45AM
Friday, July 23rd
Phone Bank at Lansing Campaign Headquarters
Volunteer Shifts: 10AM – Noon, Noon – 2PM, 4 – 6PM, 6 – 8PM
Ann Arbor Art Fair Canvass
Meet in the Kroger Parking Lot, 400 South Maple Street
Volunteer Shifts: Noon – 3PM, 3PM – 6PM, 6PM – 9PM
Carpools leave Lansing Campaign HQ at 10:30AM
Saturday, July 24th
Ann Arbor Canvass and Art Fair
Meet in the Kroger Parking Lot, 400 South Maple Street
Volunteer Shifts: Noon – 3PM, 3PM – 6PM
Flint Canvass
Meet at the Cherry / Kildee Campaign Headquarters located at 877 East 5th Avenue (5th Avenue and South Saginaw Street)
Volunteer Shifts begin at 10:00 a.m. on Mon/Wed. and 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. other days of the week.
Anthony Panneck is the Flint Organizer and can be reached at apanneck@hotmail.com or 405.812.3417. They have 7 cell phones available for phone banking.
Pontiac Canvass
Meet at Washington Middle School at 710 Menominee
Volunteer shifts begin at noon
Southfield Canvass
Meet at Southfield – Lathrup High School, 19301 West 12 Mile Road
Volunteer Shifts begin at 1PM and 3:30PM
Sunday, July 25th
Muskegon Canvass
Meet in the parking lot of the Muskegon County South Campus Building, Corner of Apple Ave and Pine St
Volunteer shifts begin at 2PM and 4PM
Carpools leave Lansing Campaign HQ at 12:15PM
Monday, July 26th
Grand Rapids Canvass
Meet at Wilcox Park at 100 Youell SE (Robinson at Wilcox Park Drive SE)
Volunteer shifts begin at 1PM and 3:30PM
Friday, July 16, 2010
Kent County PAC Recommendations
The KCPAC has finished its Screening and Recommendation for the Aug. 3, 2010 primary. It recommends the following:
House 73 – no position on any candidates
House 77 – no position
House 86 – we recommend a favorable status for Frank Hammond (D) current board member at Kenowa Hills.
House 76 – Continuing recommendation for Roy Schmidt
House 75 – The GRPAC has not finished its S&R at this time.
Senate 29 – KCPAC no position. GRPAC has not finished its S&R – The meet next week July 21 for the senate and the House 75.
3rd Congressional (US) – the KCPAC/GRPAC is recommending to the MEA president that the NEA support Patrick Miles (D).
House 73 – no position on any candidates
House 77 – no position
House 86 – we recommend a favorable status for Frank Hammond (D) current board member at Kenowa Hills.
House 76 – Continuing recommendation for Roy Schmidt
House 75 – The GRPAC has not finished its S&R at this time.
Senate 29 – KCPAC no position. GRPAC has not finished its S&R – The meet next week July 21 for the senate and the House 75.
3rd Congressional (US) – the KCPAC/GRPAC is recommending to the MEA president that the NEA support Patrick Miles (D).
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Reprint from "MEA VOTES"
What does Virg Bernero think about outsourcing education jobs to private companies?
Gubernatorial candidate Virg Bernero opposes the outsourcing of public school employees' jobs to private companies -- and he supports efforts to reform state law that prohibits collective bargaining over the issue.
Bernero, a Democrat who currently serves as mayor of Lansing, faces Rep. Andy Dillon in the Aug. 3 primary. Five Republicans will face off in the Republican primary on the same date.
MEA recommends Bernero for governor because of his strong support for public education and education employees.
MEA Votes recently asked Bernero questions about outsourcing. Here are his answers:
Q: Should public schools outsource the jobs of education employees to private companies?
A: No. As governor, I won't rely on gimmicks like outsourcing of school jobs to solve our budget woes. Support staff are as essential to our education system as teachers. They are part of our school's culture and help nurture a positive learning environment. We also need to be sure the people working with our kids have the proper training and background checks that assure our kids are safe when they are at school.
Q: Do you support legislation that would remove the prohibition against bargaining over privatization/outsourcing (or the impact of privatization/outsourcing) that is contained in PERA?
A: Yes. Privatization and outsourcing should be a subject of collective bargaining.
Q: Should school districts be required to collectively bargain with local unions the decision to outsource education jobs to private companies?
A: Yes.
Q: Do you have any experience with privatization?
A: As part of reorganizing Lansing city government to focus on core services, printing services were contracted to a union print shop because of the cost of maintaining an annex office and replacing aging printing machinery. No city employees lost their job as a result.
Q: Have you ever outsourced the work of public employees to a private company?
A: As described above, we have shifted some non-core services work from public employees to the private sector, but we have never laid off a single worker as a result. To counterbalance, we have also "insourced" work that was being done by private companies and is now being done by city employees.
Q: Should educational support professionals receive fair wages and health care benefits?
A: Absolutely. I support fair wages and health care for all.
Q: What do you think about districts that outsource the work of employees in order to eliminate health care or retirement benefits for those employees?
A: I disagree.
Q: As you know, private company employees perform many non-instructional and administrative jobs in schools around Michigan. Should private companies be permitted to take over regular instructional positions, such as teaching jobs, in all public schools, too?
A: Absolutely not.
Q: Often, private companies fail to deliver promised savings. In these instances, who should be held accountable -- and, how?
A: Private companies should be held to account for all contracted deliverables. If they do not deliver on their promises, they should have to pay penalties or lose the contract or both.
Q: Should jobs at public colleges and universities be privatized?
A: No.
Q: Considering the impact that outsourcing has on local and state (un)employment rates, tax collections, and consumer spending, should the state intervene to slow the trend of privatization because of the detrimental impact on communities and Michigan?
A: Yes. While we are all responsible to make our educational system better and improve opportunities for all Michiganders, we should never consider balancing the budgets on the backs of our teachers, aides, and support staff.
Gubernatorial candidate Virg Bernero opposes the outsourcing of public school employees' jobs to private companies -- and he supports efforts to reform state law that prohibits collective bargaining over the issue.
Bernero, a Democrat who currently serves as mayor of Lansing, faces Rep. Andy Dillon in the Aug. 3 primary. Five Republicans will face off in the Republican primary on the same date.
MEA recommends Bernero for governor because of his strong support for public education and education employees.
MEA Votes recently asked Bernero questions about outsourcing. Here are his answers:
Q: Should public schools outsource the jobs of education employees to private companies?
A: No. As governor, I won't rely on gimmicks like outsourcing of school jobs to solve our budget woes. Support staff are as essential to our education system as teachers. They are part of our school's culture and help nurture a positive learning environment. We also need to be sure the people working with our kids have the proper training and background checks that assure our kids are safe when they are at school.
Q: Do you support legislation that would remove the prohibition against bargaining over privatization/outsourcing (or the impact of privatization/outsourcing) that is contained in PERA?
A: Yes. Privatization and outsourcing should be a subject of collective bargaining.
Q: Should school districts be required to collectively bargain with local unions the decision to outsource education jobs to private companies?
A: Yes.
Q: Do you have any experience with privatization?
A: As part of reorganizing Lansing city government to focus on core services, printing services were contracted to a union print shop because of the cost of maintaining an annex office and replacing aging printing machinery. No city employees lost their job as a result.
Q: Have you ever outsourced the work of public employees to a private company?
A: As described above, we have shifted some non-core services work from public employees to the private sector, but we have never laid off a single worker as a result. To counterbalance, we have also "insourced" work that was being done by private companies and is now being done by city employees.
Q: Should educational support professionals receive fair wages and health care benefits?
A: Absolutely. I support fair wages and health care for all.
Q: What do you think about districts that outsource the work of employees in order to eliminate health care or retirement benefits for those employees?
A: I disagree.
Q: As you know, private company employees perform many non-instructional and administrative jobs in schools around Michigan. Should private companies be permitted to take over regular instructional positions, such as teaching jobs, in all public schools, too?
A: Absolutely not.
Q: Often, private companies fail to deliver promised savings. In these instances, who should be held accountable -- and, how?
A: Private companies should be held to account for all contracted deliverables. If they do not deliver on their promises, they should have to pay penalties or lose the contract or both.
Q: Should jobs at public colleges and universities be privatized?
A: No.
Q: Considering the impact that outsourcing has on local and state (un)employment rates, tax collections, and consumer spending, should the state intervene to slow the trend of privatization because of the detrimental impact on communities and Michigan?
A: Yes. While we are all responsible to make our educational system better and improve opportunities for all Michiganders, we should never consider balancing the budgets on the backs of our teachers, aides, and support staff.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Legislative Alert
Your help is needed!
SB 1074 – The Mandatory Outsourcing of Non-Instructional Support Services (Pappageorge (R)-Troy) would require all school districts, including ISDs, to outsource all custodial, food service and transportation services no later than January 2011.
The bill allows the current union to bid on the services and mandates acceptance of the lowest bid.
The bill specifically provides that the outsourced employees may not be employed by the school district. This means those employees would automatically lose their credit in the school employees’ retirement system.
Right now, there is no hearing scheduled on the legislation to move it out of committee.
And to help keep things that way, please contact all members of the Senate Committee on Reforms and Restructuring.
Urge them to VOTE NO in committee on SB 1074.
Members of the committee include:
Senator Mike Bishop, (Chair) 517/373-2417 or
senmbishop@senate.michigan.gov
Senator Jud Gilbert, (Vice-Chair) 517/373-7708 or
senjgilbert@senate.michigan.gov
Senator Tom George 517/373-0793 or
sentgeorge@senate.michigan.gov
Senator Wayne Kuipers 517/373-6920 or
senwkuipers@senate.michigan.gov
Senator Mike Prusi (Minority Vice-Chair) 517/373-7840 or
senmprusi@senate.michigan.gov
Senator Tupac Hunter 517/373-0994 or
senthunter@senate.michigan.gov
Senator Deb Cherry 517/373-1636 or
sendcherry@senate.michigan.gov
In addition, call your own Senators and alert them of the bill. Urge them to VOTE NO on SB 1074
SB 1074 – The Mandatory Outsourcing of Non-Instructional Support Services (Pappageorge (R)-Troy) would require all school districts, including ISDs, to outsource all custodial, food service and transportation services no later than January 2011.
The bill allows the current union to bid on the services and mandates acceptance of the lowest bid.
The bill specifically provides that the outsourced employees may not be employed by the school district. This means those employees would automatically lose their credit in the school employees’ retirement system.
Right now, there is no hearing scheduled on the legislation to move it out of committee.
And to help keep things that way, please contact all members of the Senate Committee on Reforms and Restructuring.
Urge them to VOTE NO in committee on SB 1074.
Members of the committee include:
Senator Mike Bishop, (Chair) 517/373-2417 or
senmbishop@senate.michigan.gov
Senator Jud Gilbert, (Vice-Chair) 517/373-7708 or
senjgilbert@senate.michigan.gov
Senator Tom George 517/373-0793 or
sentgeorge@senate.michigan.gov
Senator Wayne Kuipers 517/373-6920 or
senwkuipers@senate.michigan.gov
Senator Mike Prusi (Minority Vice-Chair) 517/373-7840 or
senmprusi@senate.michigan.gov
Senator Tupac Hunter 517/373-0994 or
senthunter@senate.michigan.gov
Senator Deb Cherry 517/373-1636 or
sendcherry@senate.michigan.gov
In addition, call your own Senators and alert them of the bill. Urge them to VOTE NO on SB 1074
Friday, February 19, 2010
Proposed K-12 School Aid budget for 2010-11
The Governor proposed the following for next year's school aid budget:
Remember – there will be significant changes before a School Aid Bill is enacted.
• The Governor’s budget assumes an increase in sales tax revenue (from expanding the base to include some services and reducing the rate from 6% to 5.5%). She estimates that this will increase School Aid Fund revenue by $554 million, negating the need for an additional $255 per pupil cut.
• The $165 per pupil cut from 2009-10 remains in place for 2010-11.
• ISD operational funding will still be 80% of 2008-09 levels. (The 20% cut remains through 2010-11).
• All of the remaining ARRA funds (184 million) will be used in 2010-11. This still leaves the School Aid Fund short by $165 per pupil (plus $255 per pupil with no tax increase or reallocation of revenue. The $255 reduction will change as new revenue figures arrive throughout the year).
• By 2011-12, for all of the following services:
1. Purchasing services
2. Payroll services
3. Financial accounting services
4. Facilities maintenance services
5. Pupil transportation services
6. Human resource services
7. Technology services
8. Food services
ISDs must calculate a per pupil cost as if the ISD provided the service in the most “cost-effective method”. If a district’s costs are less than the ISD’s calculations, all is fine. If a district’s costs are more than the ISD’s calculations, the district has to enter into an agreement with the ISD to provide the service or forfeit 1% of their foundation allowance.
• There is no change in the foundation allowance.
• Instead of 30 snow hours, here is the new language – “the first 6 days or equivalent hours for which pupil instruct is not provided because of conditions not within the control of school authorities….shall be counted as hours and days of pupils instruction.”
• The MPSERS rate is 19.41%, ALTHOUGH – the act includes this language, “ the contribution rate for 2010-11 may be reduced… if reforms in the public school employees retirement system are enacted by the end of calendar year 2010.”
Remember – there will be significant changes before a School Aid Bill is enacted.
• The Governor’s budget assumes an increase in sales tax revenue (from expanding the base to include some services and reducing the rate from 6% to 5.5%). She estimates that this will increase School Aid Fund revenue by $554 million, negating the need for an additional $255 per pupil cut.
• The $165 per pupil cut from 2009-10 remains in place for 2010-11.
• ISD operational funding will still be 80% of 2008-09 levels. (The 20% cut remains through 2010-11).
• All of the remaining ARRA funds (184 million) will be used in 2010-11. This still leaves the School Aid Fund short by $165 per pupil (plus $255 per pupil with no tax increase or reallocation of revenue. The $255 reduction will change as new revenue figures arrive throughout the year).
• By 2011-12, for all of the following services:
1. Purchasing services
2. Payroll services
3. Financial accounting services
4. Facilities maintenance services
5. Pupil transportation services
6. Human resource services
7. Technology services
8. Food services
ISDs must calculate a per pupil cost as if the ISD provided the service in the most “cost-effective method”. If a district’s costs are less than the ISD’s calculations, all is fine. If a district’s costs are more than the ISD’s calculations, the district has to enter into an agreement with the ISD to provide the service or forfeit 1% of their foundation allowance.
• There is no change in the foundation allowance.
• Instead of 30 snow hours, here is the new language – “the first 6 days or equivalent hours for which pupil instruct is not provided because of conditions not within the control of school authorities….shall be counted as hours and days of pupils instruction.”
• The MPSERS rate is 19.41%, ALTHOUGH – the act includes this language, “ the contribution rate for 2010-11 may be reduced… if reforms in the public school employees retirement system are enacted by the end of calendar year 2010.”
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Watch Out!
Many legislators and politicians are working very hard to take money away from you to fund the budget crisis in Michigan. It is important to stay connected with your legislators and keep your best interest in their ear.
Here are some of the possible proposals that could become bills in the next few weeks:
• Eliminate dental and vision coverage for all future retirees after this school year (2010).
• Increase the retirement multiplier from 1.5% to 1.6% for anyone that retires between July 1 and Sept. 1, 2010 (this is good for anyone who will retire this year).
• Employ a cost-effective, self funded retirement plan for new employees hired after Oct. 1, 2010 (move away from a pension plan).
• Outsource all support services (Transportation, food service, custodians, etc). This eliminated the retirement $ for those employees plus stops local control of services.
• Enforce a 5% pay-cut for all public employees (Depending on your salary/wages, it could range from $2,000 - $4,000 per year).
• Public employees to pay 20% of their current insurance premium (could be approx. $3,000-$4,000 per year).
• Increase your retirement contribution by 3.0% (most already pay over 3%) could range from $1,000 - $2,000 per year).
IF ALL THE FINAL 3 PROPOSALS ARE IMPLEMENTED IN THE NEXT WEEKS, YOU COULD LOSE BETWEEN $6,000 - $10,000 PER YEAR- POSSIBLY BEGINNING NEXT YEAR!
Please use the link below to contact your legislators concerning some or all of these items. Legislators are in the process of writing bills that could enforce these proposals. We can make a difference by letting them know that we are not in support of making the public employees shoulder most of the burden for the problems with the Michigan budget. There are many other methods in which they can create revenue to fix the school and public funding.
http://capwiz.com/nea/mi/state/main/?state=MI
You can also call Jennifer Granholm (she is in favor and supporting some of these proposals) and other state officers:
Jennifer Granholm: 517-373-3400
Again, WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Here are some of the possible proposals that could become bills in the next few weeks:
• Eliminate dental and vision coverage for all future retirees after this school year (2010).
• Increase the retirement multiplier from 1.5% to 1.6% for anyone that retires between July 1 and Sept. 1, 2010 (this is good for anyone who will retire this year).
• Employ a cost-effective, self funded retirement plan for new employees hired after Oct. 1, 2010 (move away from a pension plan).
• Outsource all support services (Transportation, food service, custodians, etc). This eliminated the retirement $ for those employees plus stops local control of services.
• Enforce a 5% pay-cut for all public employees (Depending on your salary/wages, it could range from $2,000 - $4,000 per year).
• Public employees to pay 20% of their current insurance premium (could be approx. $3,000-$4,000 per year).
• Increase your retirement contribution by 3.0% (most already pay over 3%) could range from $1,000 - $2,000 per year).
IF ALL THE FINAL 3 PROPOSALS ARE IMPLEMENTED IN THE NEXT WEEKS, YOU COULD LOSE BETWEEN $6,000 - $10,000 PER YEAR- POSSIBLY BEGINNING NEXT YEAR!
Please use the link below to contact your legislators concerning some or all of these items. Legislators are in the process of writing bills that could enforce these proposals. We can make a difference by letting them know that we are not in support of making the public employees shoulder most of the burden for the problems with the Michigan budget. There are many other methods in which they can create revenue to fix the school and public funding.
http://capwiz.com/nea/mi/state/main/?state=MI
You can also call Jennifer Granholm (she is in favor and supporting some of these proposals) and other state officers:
Jennifer Granholm: 517-373-3400
Again, WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Friday, January 29, 2010
Retirement Benefits Attacked
Today the state budget director, Bob Emerson, outlined proposed changes to the Michigan Public School Employees Retirement System.
The proposed changes:
Public school employees who are members of the Michigan Public School Employees Retirement System (MPSERS) will be subject to the following changes effective October 1, 2010:
* To ensure MPSERS is financially sound, employee contributions to the plan will increase by 3 percent for all employees except those in the MIP Plus program whose contribution was increased in 2008. MIP Plus members' contribution will increase by 0.9 percent.
* Elimination of subsidized retiree vision and dental coverage for school employees retiring with an effective date after October 1, 2010. Retirees will be able to purchase this coverage for a monthly fee through the plan.
* The retirement multiplier will be increased from 1.5 percent to 1.6 percent for employees who retire with an effective date between July 1 and September 1, 2010, which will be paid by the applicable school districts.
* A new, more cost-effective hybrid retirement plan for new employees hired on or after October 1, 2010, will be created. New employees will participate in both a base defined benefit plan and a defined contribution plan.
* Phased retirement option for retiring employees age 60 or older. Phased-in retirement will be allowed for up to three years, enabling employees to collect their DB plan retirement with a workload of no more than 20 hours per week for a previously full-time employee. This option is available to the employees at the discretion of the school districts.
Check back here for more information on this attack on your benefits.
The proposed changes:
Public school employees who are members of the Michigan Public School Employees Retirement System (MPSERS) will be subject to the following changes effective October 1, 2010:
* To ensure MPSERS is financially sound, employee contributions to the plan will increase by 3 percent for all employees except those in the MIP Plus program whose contribution was increased in 2008. MIP Plus members' contribution will increase by 0.9 percent.
* Elimination of subsidized retiree vision and dental coverage for school employees retiring with an effective date after October 1, 2010. Retirees will be able to purchase this coverage for a monthly fee through the plan.
* The retirement multiplier will be increased from 1.5 percent to 1.6 percent for employees who retire with an effective date between July 1 and September 1, 2010, which will be paid by the applicable school districts.
* A new, more cost-effective hybrid retirement plan for new employees hired on or after October 1, 2010, will be created. New employees will participate in both a base defined benefit plan and a defined contribution plan.
* Phased retirement option for retiring employees age 60 or older. Phased-in retirement will be allowed for up to three years, enabling employees to collect their DB plan retirement with a workload of no more than 20 hours per week for a previously full-time employee. This option is available to the employees at the discretion of the school districts.
Check back here for more information on this attack on your benefits.
Monday, December 21, 2009
News of the Day
State Legislators Pass “Race to the Top” Legislation
Both Houses Adopt Conference Reports for HB 4787, HB 4788, SB 926 and SB 981
On Saturday, the RTTT bills passed the Legislature. Thanks to the hard work of many MEA members and staff, these bills came a long way from their initial form. However, the final bill regarding turning around “failing” schools contained language that attacked the collective bargaining rights of our members in buildings put under control of a state school reform officer.
President Salters and AFT President David Hecker put out a joint statement which included the following:
“MEA and AFT-Michigan came to agreement with legislative leaders on every necessary aspect of Race to the Top, including alternative certification, using student data as a component in employee evaluation, and measures to turn around struggling schools. However, the absolutely unnecessary language in the bills stripping educators of their voice in helping students in those struggling schools is something neither union can or will support.
“During the marathon sessions in the past three days, MEA and AFT agreed to countless changes which would have put Michigan in excellent position to compete for RTTT funds. The overreaching of the Legislature with regard to the collective bargaining rights of employees in struggling schools taken over by a state school reform officer is simply a step too far -- and one not needed for RTTT.”
Issues included in the RTTT Package
There were several bills that were passed under the RTTT banner which dealt with many topics, including:
- Turning around low-performing schools
- Expanding alternative certification
- Expanding charter and cyber schools
- Using student data as a factor in evaluation
- Starting with this year’s 6th graders, increase the mandatory attendance age from 16 to 18
- Allowing greater personalization of the high school curriculum
- Requirements for bidding before privatizing
- A “Teacher Bill of Rights” which assists educators in obtaining books and other necessary supplies
- NOTE: The bills DID NOT modify tenure.
More details will be available next week as our experts further analyze the bills that passed. Stay tuned.
Both Houses Adopt Conference Reports for HB 4787, HB 4788, SB 926 and SB 981
On Saturday, the RTTT bills passed the Legislature. Thanks to the hard work of many MEA members and staff, these bills came a long way from their initial form. However, the final bill regarding turning around “failing” schools contained language that attacked the collective bargaining rights of our members in buildings put under control of a state school reform officer.
President Salters and AFT President David Hecker put out a joint statement which included the following:
“MEA and AFT-Michigan came to agreement with legislative leaders on every necessary aspect of Race to the Top, including alternative certification, using student data as a component in employee evaluation, and measures to turn around struggling schools. However, the absolutely unnecessary language in the bills stripping educators of their voice in helping students in those struggling schools is something neither union can or will support.
“During the marathon sessions in the past three days, MEA and AFT agreed to countless changes which would have put Michigan in excellent position to compete for RTTT funds. The overreaching of the Legislature with regard to the collective bargaining rights of employees in struggling schools taken over by a state school reform officer is simply a step too far -- and one not needed for RTTT.”
Issues included in the RTTT Package
There were several bills that were passed under the RTTT banner which dealt with many topics, including:
- Turning around low-performing schools
- Expanding alternative certification
- Expanding charter and cyber schools
- Using student data as a factor in evaluation
- Starting with this year’s 6th graders, increase the mandatory attendance age from 16 to 18
- Allowing greater personalization of the high school curriculum
- Requirements for bidding before privatizing
- A “Teacher Bill of Rights” which assists educators in obtaining books and other necessary supplies
- NOTE: The bills DID NOT modify tenure.
More details will be available next week as our experts further analyze the bills that passed. Stay tuned.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
News of the Day
MEA Launches ‘Reading Program’ for Legislators
Encourage leaders in Lansing to READ bills BEFORE they VOTE on them
Reading is fundamental – especially for legislators.
That’s why, today, MEA is launching a new “reading program” for our elected leaders in Lansing. Just as it’s critical for our students to read their assignments before taking a test, our state representatives and senators must READ any bills on school reform before they VOTE on them.
With the federal Race to the Top deadline looming, negotiations in Lansing around RTTT-related legislation will stretch well into the evening hours. These various House- and Senate-approved bills are in conference committee where six legislators will have significant influence over any compromise. They are Sen. Wayne Kuipers (R-Holland), Sen. Gerald Van Woerkom (R-Muskegon), Sen. Buzz Thomas (D-Detroit), Rep. Tim Melton (D-Auburn Hills), Rep. Doug Geiss (D-Taylor), and Rep. Phillip Pavlov (R-St. Clair).
In these kind of last-minute negotiations, it’s common for legislators outside the conference committee to not have the opportunity to fully read compromise bills before voting.
But with our students’ futures at stake, it is essential that our leaders in Lansing do the responsible thing, read whatever bills come before them, and carefully consider the reforms they are enacting. The details of these reforms are critical – they will impact the education that students receive for years to come.
Critical areas for them to look for and oppose include:
- School reform that narrowly focuses on instituting building level reforms without addressing dysfunctional bureaucracies.
- Expansion of charter schools without proper oversight, transparency and accountability, as well as unregulated cyber schools or other new school models that don’t ensure a high-quality education for students.
- The elimination of teacher tenure and other assaults on school employee rights that ensure good working environments for employees – and good learning environments for students.
Act now!
E-mail and call your state representative and senator today (leave a voicemail if no one is available to take your call in person). If one of your legislators is on the conference committee, urge them to consider these issues in finalizing compromise bills. If your elected officials aren’t on the committee, share your concerns and ask that they consider them as they make their decisions in the coming days.
But above all, insist that all our leaders in Lansing take the time to READ this significant legislation BEFORE they cast a final VOTE.
Encourage leaders in Lansing to READ bills BEFORE they VOTE on them
Reading is fundamental – especially for legislators.
That’s why, today, MEA is launching a new “reading program” for our elected leaders in Lansing. Just as it’s critical for our students to read their assignments before taking a test, our state representatives and senators must READ any bills on school reform before they VOTE on them.
With the federal Race to the Top deadline looming, negotiations in Lansing around RTTT-related legislation will stretch well into the evening hours. These various House- and Senate-approved bills are in conference committee where six legislators will have significant influence over any compromise. They are Sen. Wayne Kuipers (R-Holland), Sen. Gerald Van Woerkom (R-Muskegon), Sen. Buzz Thomas (D-Detroit), Rep. Tim Melton (D-Auburn Hills), Rep. Doug Geiss (D-Taylor), and Rep. Phillip Pavlov (R-St. Clair).
In these kind of last-minute negotiations, it’s common for legislators outside the conference committee to not have the opportunity to fully read compromise bills before voting.
But with our students’ futures at stake, it is essential that our leaders in Lansing do the responsible thing, read whatever bills come before them, and carefully consider the reforms they are enacting. The details of these reforms are critical – they will impact the education that students receive for years to come.
Critical areas for them to look for and oppose include:
- School reform that narrowly focuses on instituting building level reforms without addressing dysfunctional bureaucracies.
- Expansion of charter schools without proper oversight, transparency and accountability, as well as unregulated cyber schools or other new school models that don’t ensure a high-quality education for students.
- The elimination of teacher tenure and other assaults on school employee rights that ensure good working environments for employees – and good learning environments for students.
Act now!
E-mail and call your state representative and senator today (leave a voicemail if no one is available to take your call in person). If one of your legislators is on the conference committee, urge them to consider these issues in finalizing compromise bills. If your elected officials aren’t on the committee, share your concerns and ask that they consider them as they make their decisions in the coming days.
But above all, insist that all our leaders in Lansing take the time to READ this significant legislation BEFORE they cast a final VOTE.
Friday, December 11, 2009
News of the Day
Governor Granholm to Delay School Proration
At a 4:00 p.m. press conference yesterday, Gov. Granholm announced that she will delay the $127 per pupil proration cut in school aid payments this month. She justified making the move because state revenues in November showed the first increase since last January.
The cuts were to take effect this month after the Legislature failed in November to take action to reverse the pro-ration she ordered because of declining revenues.
The cuts will be delayed until the January revenue conference, which is scheduled for January 11, 2010.
Treasurer Bob Klein and Budget Director Bob Emerson reported that spending on several K-12 categoricals from 2009 was lower than anticipated giving the School Aid Fund (SAF) a carry-forward balance going into fiscal year 2010.
Meanwhile, figures released by the Senate Fiscal Agency showed that November revenues totaled $1.6 billion, up .8 percent from November 2008 and the first monthly revenue increase since January.
With the delay of the $127 pro-rata cut, the total amount cut in fiscal year 2010 would be $165 per pupil.
At a 4:00 p.m. press conference yesterday, Gov. Granholm announced that she will delay the $127 per pupil proration cut in school aid payments this month. She justified making the move because state revenues in November showed the first increase since last January.
The cuts were to take effect this month after the Legislature failed in November to take action to reverse the pro-ration she ordered because of declining revenues.
The cuts will be delayed until the January revenue conference, which is scheduled for January 11, 2010.
Treasurer Bob Klein and Budget Director Bob Emerson reported that spending on several K-12 categoricals from 2009 was lower than anticipated giving the School Aid Fund (SAF) a carry-forward balance going into fiscal year 2010.
Meanwhile, figures released by the Senate Fiscal Agency showed that November revenues totaled $1.6 billion, up .8 percent from November 2008 and the first monthly revenue increase since January.
With the delay of the $127 pro-rata cut, the total amount cut in fiscal year 2010 would be $165 per pupil.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Urgent
Please contact members urging them to call their legislators NOW!
The House is taking up bills (HB 5623 & HB 5636) which would:
--Require districts use "data on student growth" as a "significant" factor in teacher evaluations. It defines "significant" as 60%!
--Require districts to implement what many have called "pay for performance." It states it shall performance will be based at least in part "upon data on student growth as measured by assessments and other objective criteria."
Some talking points:
--These requirements go far beyond what the federal government is requesting in the Race to the Top grants
--These ignore such factors as:
student attendance (teachers will be evaluated on student performance even if the student is NOT there most of the year)
student at-risk status
student disabilities
parental support
--This is a "one size fits all" approach that ignores local control
--Most districts have sound evaluation processes that take into account many important factors to assess teacher performance
--This will penalize teachers who work with the students who have the greatest needs.
The House is taking up bills (HB 5623 & HB 5636) which would:
--Require districts use "data on student growth" as a "significant" factor in teacher evaluations. It defines "significant" as 60%!
--Require districts to implement what many have called "pay for performance." It states it shall performance will be based at least in part "upon data on student growth as measured by assessments and other objective criteria."
Some talking points:
--These requirements go far beyond what the federal government is requesting in the Race to the Top grants
--These ignore such factors as:
student attendance (teachers will be evaluated on student performance even if the student is NOT there most of the year)
student at-risk status
student disabilities
parental support
--This is a "one size fits all" approach that ignores local control
--Most districts have sound evaluation processes that take into account many important factors to assess teacher performance
--This will penalize teachers who work with the students who have the greatest needs.
Friday, December 4, 2009
SPECIAL ALERT
Be careful of what you sign!
As part of the application for RTTT funds, local districts must sign agreements (LoA or MoU) with their employee unions showing support for the reforms designated in the grant. This is a voluntary move on the part of the union. It is not mandated. By signing the agreement you are committing you and your local’s support to the reforms.
If you are approached to sign such a document, contact your UniServ director and your local leadership team before you sign. This is a huge decision with consequences for you and your members. It requires everyone’s best thinking and input into the decision.
As part of the application for RTTT funds, local districts must sign agreements (LoA or MoU) with their employee unions showing support for the reforms designated in the grant. This is a voluntary move on the part of the union. It is not mandated. By signing the agreement you are committing you and your local’s support to the reforms.
If you are approached to sign such a document, contact your UniServ director and your local leadership team before you sign. This is a huge decision with consequences for you and your members. It requires everyone’s best thinking and input into the decision.
Friday, November 20, 2009
News of the Day
Collective Bargaining Works, Firefighters say Dillon Health Care Plan – Prescription for Disaster
Three people who testified Thursday before a House panel considering House Bill 5345, a proposed state-run health plan for all public employees, said that collective bargaining helps save millions in health care costs. They told lawmakers that public employees increasingly share the cost of health care – and they asked lawmakers to continue to allow health insurance decisions to be made at the local level.
“Leave it up to the locals to tailor a plan that best suits our needs,” said Bryan Epling, president of the International Association of Fire Fighters, Local #421, Lansing.
Byrnes laughs off possible run with Dillon - Speculation brews about her future
The chair of the House panel studying HB 5345, Rep. Pam Byrnes (D-Lyndon Township), has been noticeably absent from the Senate race in her home district, a contest many expected the term-limited representative to dominate. This fueled speculation in the Ann Arbor Chronicle that Byrnes was planning to join House Speaker Andy Dillon as running mate in Dillon’s possible run for the governor’s seat. Byrnes told the paper she is amused by the rumor, saying “I think it’s funny. Andy has not said a thing to me. As far as I know, he hasn’t made up his mind about running.”
MSU says it will cover some Promise Grants - Students rally on many campuses to restore scholarships
Michigan State University officials announced that they will use federal stimulus money to help cover some of the Promise Grant cuts to about 8,100 MSU students. The neediest students would get the most money, and a university spokesman stressed this was a one-time aid offer for this year only. Ferris State University made a similar announcement earlier this week.
Meanwhile, Gov. Jennifer Granholm is making the rounds at rallies on college campuses, calling on student groups to urge their legislators to restore funding for Promise Grants in this year’s budget.
Tax roundtable debates solutions to Michigan’s fiscal crisis - MEA proposal gets wide support
The Center for Michigan brought together a diverse group of business, education and social service interests Tuesday to try to find answers to the state budget crisis. Audience members led the discussion by voting on what our priorities should be. Education was the overwhelming winner.
Perhaps surprisingly, there was room for consensus on the roundtable panel. The Michigan Chamber of Commerce and Business Leaders for Michigan agreed with MEA’s call for a complete evaluation of each tax incentive to make sure it’s producing jobs and helping our economy.
There were other areas of disagreement, including whether to expand the sales tax, institute a graduated income tax, and reduce public employee salaries and benefits, but, overall, panel members said they were optimistic that common ground could be found.
Three people who testified Thursday before a House panel considering House Bill 5345, a proposed state-run health plan for all public employees, said that collective bargaining helps save millions in health care costs. They told lawmakers that public employees increasingly share the cost of health care – and they asked lawmakers to continue to allow health insurance decisions to be made at the local level.
“Leave it up to the locals to tailor a plan that best suits our needs,” said Bryan Epling, president of the International Association of Fire Fighters, Local #421, Lansing.
Byrnes laughs off possible run with Dillon - Speculation brews about her future
The chair of the House panel studying HB 5345, Rep. Pam Byrnes (D-Lyndon Township), has been noticeably absent from the Senate race in her home district, a contest many expected the term-limited representative to dominate. This fueled speculation in the Ann Arbor Chronicle that Byrnes was planning to join House Speaker Andy Dillon as running mate in Dillon’s possible run for the governor’s seat. Byrnes told the paper she is amused by the rumor, saying “I think it’s funny. Andy has not said a thing to me. As far as I know, he hasn’t made up his mind about running.”
MSU says it will cover some Promise Grants - Students rally on many campuses to restore scholarships
Michigan State University officials announced that they will use federal stimulus money to help cover some of the Promise Grant cuts to about 8,100 MSU students. The neediest students would get the most money, and a university spokesman stressed this was a one-time aid offer for this year only. Ferris State University made a similar announcement earlier this week.
Meanwhile, Gov. Jennifer Granholm is making the rounds at rallies on college campuses, calling on student groups to urge their legislators to restore funding for Promise Grants in this year’s budget.
Tax roundtable debates solutions to Michigan’s fiscal crisis - MEA proposal gets wide support
The Center for Michigan brought together a diverse group of business, education and social service interests Tuesday to try to find answers to the state budget crisis. Audience members led the discussion by voting on what our priorities should be. Education was the overwhelming winner.
Perhaps surprisingly, there was room for consensus on the roundtable panel. The Michigan Chamber of Commerce and Business Leaders for Michigan agreed with MEA’s call for a complete evaluation of each tax incentive to make sure it’s producing jobs and helping our economy.
There were other areas of disagreement, including whether to expand the sales tax, institute a graduated income tax, and reduce public employee salaries and benefits, but, overall, panel members said they were optimistic that common ground could be found.
Monday, November 16, 2009
School Funding Video
The Washtenaw ISD has prepared a narrated PowerPoint presentation entitled, “Facing the Michigan School Funding Crisis." This 16-minute multi-media presentation does an outstanding job of providing an overview of Michigan’s current school funding crisis, and does it in ways that community members, staff, and even students can understand.
The Grand Ledge Public Schools showed it during a community board meeting to set the context as they announced a dramatic and painful restructuring plan that the district is considering for 2010-11. While it didn’t make the losses any easier to bear, it did help the community understand how few options school leaders have, and allowed stakeholders to turn their anger and frustration in the direction where it can do the most good: to the Legislature.
To watch the video click here!
The Grand Ledge Public Schools showed it during a community board meeting to set the context as they announced a dramatic and painful restructuring plan that the district is considering for 2010-11. While it didn’t make the losses any easier to bear, it did help the community understand how few options school leaders have, and allowed stakeholders to turn their anger and frustration in the direction where it can do the most good: to the Legislature.
To watch the video click here!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
News of the Day
Senate panel moves 20j override request
Yesterday, the Senate Appropriations Committee moved SR 88 to the Senate Floor for concurrence. SR 88 is a resolution sponsored by Senator John Pappageorge (R-Troy) that asks the Michigan House of Representatives to begin the process of overriding Governor Jennifer Granholm’s veto of Sec. 20j funds in the 2009-10 K-12 School Aid budget.
Testimony was provided by a number of superintendents representing 20j schools. They included the school districts of Livonia, Troy, Farmington, Birmingham and Royal Oak. Each pointed out the cuts they have made in their budgets and the additional cuts they must make if the legislature fails to restore funding. All testified that they are donor districts. (Their districts pay more in taxes than what they receive back from the state in school aid.)
Mike Shibler, Superintendent of the Rockford Public Schools, testified that the 20j funds cost the non 20j schools $35/student. He supports restoring the 20j funds but not at a cost to non 20j districts.
The message of all who testified was not only about restoring 20j funds. They emphasized the need to make funding of schools a priority and requested that the legislature establish a more stable and adequate tax base for funding schools.
The resolution passed on vote of 10-5. Republicans voting in favor were: Ron Jelinek, John Pappageorge, Cameron Brown, Allen Cropsey, Tom George, Roger Khan and Tony Stamas. Republicans voting no included: Bill Hardiman, Mark Jansen and Michelle McManus.
Democrats voting in favor included: Michael Switalski, Glenn Anderson and Liz Brater. No votes were cast by Deb Cherry and Irma Clark-Colman.
Valde Garcia and Jim Barcia were not in attendance.
THERE ARE NO 20j DISTRICTS IN THE KCEA
MEA supports House Bills 4245, 4284, 4997
House committee passes campaign finance bills
The House Ethics and Elections Committee approved three bills that would amend campaign finance law. Notably, the legislation would affect public employee payroll deductions for donations to union political action committees (PAC). Now, the measures go to the full House for consideration.
MEA supports the bills; please contact your state representatives to encourage them to vote yes on the following bills:
House Bill 4245 allows public employees to contribute to a union PAC by payroll deduction if the union fully compensates the public body for the use of any resources.
House Bill 4284 eliminates the requirement that labor organizations and others obtain annual consent for contributions from individuals who give on an automatic basis, such as through payroll deduction. Written consent would still be required, but not every year.
House Bill 4997 does the same thing as House Bills 4245 and 4284 but also affects communications to elect or defeat a candidate, including automated telephone calls. Automated calls and other electronic communications would have to clearly state the name and address or telephone number of the person paying for the communication. Further, telephone communications could not take place before 9 a.m. or after 8 p.m.
Dillon Health Care Plan – Prescription for Disaster
Hearing on 5345 Continues
A hearing is scheduled for Thursday, October 29, 2009, in Room 352 of the Capitol for 1:30 p.m. or after session, whichever is later.
Providing testimony will be the following:
Mike Duggan, CEO, Detroit Medical Center
Mike Shibler, Superintendent of Rockford Public Schools and
Lori Spotts, Tecumseh Education Association President, on behalf of MEA
Evan Falchuk, President and CEO, Best Doctors
Yesterday, the Senate Appropriations Committee moved SR 88 to the Senate Floor for concurrence. SR 88 is a resolution sponsored by Senator John Pappageorge (R-Troy) that asks the Michigan House of Representatives to begin the process of overriding Governor Jennifer Granholm’s veto of Sec. 20j funds in the 2009-10 K-12 School Aid budget.
Testimony was provided by a number of superintendents representing 20j schools. They included the school districts of Livonia, Troy, Farmington, Birmingham and Royal Oak. Each pointed out the cuts they have made in their budgets and the additional cuts they must make if the legislature fails to restore funding. All testified that they are donor districts. (Their districts pay more in taxes than what they receive back from the state in school aid.)
Mike Shibler, Superintendent of the Rockford Public Schools, testified that the 20j funds cost the non 20j schools $35/student. He supports restoring the 20j funds but not at a cost to non 20j districts.
The message of all who testified was not only about restoring 20j funds. They emphasized the need to make funding of schools a priority and requested that the legislature establish a more stable and adequate tax base for funding schools.
The resolution passed on vote of 10-5. Republicans voting in favor were: Ron Jelinek, John Pappageorge, Cameron Brown, Allen Cropsey, Tom George, Roger Khan and Tony Stamas. Republicans voting no included: Bill Hardiman, Mark Jansen and Michelle McManus.
Democrats voting in favor included: Michael Switalski, Glenn Anderson and Liz Brater. No votes were cast by Deb Cherry and Irma Clark-Colman.
Valde Garcia and Jim Barcia were not in attendance.
THERE ARE NO 20j DISTRICTS IN THE KCEA
MEA supports House Bills 4245, 4284, 4997
House committee passes campaign finance bills
The House Ethics and Elections Committee approved three bills that would amend campaign finance law. Notably, the legislation would affect public employee payroll deductions for donations to union political action committees (PAC). Now, the measures go to the full House for consideration.
MEA supports the bills; please contact your state representatives to encourage them to vote yes on the following bills:
House Bill 4245 allows public employees to contribute to a union PAC by payroll deduction if the union fully compensates the public body for the use of any resources.
House Bill 4284 eliminates the requirement that labor organizations and others obtain annual consent for contributions from individuals who give on an automatic basis, such as through payroll deduction. Written consent would still be required, but not every year.
House Bill 4997 does the same thing as House Bills 4245 and 4284 but also affects communications to elect or defeat a candidate, including automated telephone calls. Automated calls and other electronic communications would have to clearly state the name and address or telephone number of the person paying for the communication. Further, telephone communications could not take place before 9 a.m. or after 8 p.m.
Dillon Health Care Plan – Prescription for Disaster
Hearing on 5345 Continues
A hearing is scheduled for Thursday, October 29, 2009, in Room 352 of the Capitol for 1:30 p.m. or after session, whichever is later.
Providing testimony will be the following:
Mike Duggan, CEO, Detroit Medical Center
Mike Shibler, Superintendent of Rockford Public Schools and
Lori Spotts, Tecumseh Education Association President, on behalf of MEA
Evan Falchuk, President and CEO, Best Doctors
Monday, October 26, 2009
News of the Day
Governor Holds Round Table Discussions on Budget
Governor Granholm visited West Michigan last Friday to meet with superintendents, school board members and school staff looking for solutions to the education funding crisis.
The Governor met with members of the school communities in the Muskegon and Kent ISDs encouraging them to support her ideas for a short-term fix and long-term changes to how schools are funded. As she sees it, tax reform is key to avoiding any further budget dramas like we’re seeing now.
After the Governor explained the state’s financial crisis and her reasons for cutting an additional $127 from state aid, on top of the $165 already cut, she heard the impact the cuts will have on education—in addition to the budget slashing schools have already endured.
She heard of the potential elimination of 600 jobs in Kent County and 225 teaching jobs in Ottawa County. Kent City has already eliminated guidance counselors and day custodians. In Whitehall, this new round of cuts could mean cutting programs in fine arts and eliminating athletics and extra-curricular. The message was clear—schools are no longer cutting the number of programs—they’re cutting education quality.
John Mierz, a Whitehall teacher and MEA member, was invited to participate in the discussion. He told the Governor that it’s impossible for districts and staff to do any long-term planning when there’s such funding uncertainty.
Arch Lewis, MEA Research Consultant and a participant in the discussion agreed. “We need a long-term systemic. It’s obvious Prop A isn’t working. We need to get money to schools that will be a permanent revenue source.”
For the short term, the Legislature has 30 days to implement immediate solutions like freezing schedule increases in personal tax exemptions, or having special interest groups pay a percentage of their tax exemptions as a way of closing tax loopholes.
The Governor ended both discussions with the same challenge. “We have to mobilize like we’ve never mobilized before and fix this problem. Contact your legislator and tell them to vote for the needs of public education. Kids only have this moment. The Legislature must be convinced. Are you willing to help me?”
Emergency meetings deal with school funding crisis
In an emergency meeting on Monday, the State Board of Education urged the Governor and the Legislature to immediately find money to reduce the cuts in school funding. Meanwhile, the governor held another round-table discussion in Rochester.
Local MEA leaders and staff attended the meeting. They supplied stories about the cuts in their local districts and its effect on the classroom and students. Oakland County superintendents spoke of cost cutting measures they have been making over the past several years.
Sen. Mike Bishop (R) Rochester, Rep. Tom McMillin (R) Rochester Hills, and Rep. Kim Meltzer (R) Clinton Township were in attendance at the meeting.
At the urging of the Governor, contact your legislator today. Phone, email, or text legislators and tell them we must save public education. Urge them to look for revenue by reforming our antiquated tax structure and fixing our broken school funding system. For our economic survival, education must be a priority.
Dillon Health Care Plan – Prescription for Disaster
Hearing on 5345 Continues
A hearing is scheduled for Thursday, October 29, 2009, in Room 351 of the Capitol for 2 p.m. or after session, whichever is later.
Testifying on behalf the MEA will be Lori Spotts, President of the Tecumseh EA and Superintendent Mike Shibler, Rockford Public Schools.
Governor Granholm visited West Michigan last Friday to meet with superintendents, school board members and school staff looking for solutions to the education funding crisis.
The Governor met with members of the school communities in the Muskegon and Kent ISDs encouraging them to support her ideas for a short-term fix and long-term changes to how schools are funded. As she sees it, tax reform is key to avoiding any further budget dramas like we’re seeing now.
After the Governor explained the state’s financial crisis and her reasons for cutting an additional $127 from state aid, on top of the $165 already cut, she heard the impact the cuts will have on education—in addition to the budget slashing schools have already endured.
She heard of the potential elimination of 600 jobs in Kent County and 225 teaching jobs in Ottawa County. Kent City has already eliminated guidance counselors and day custodians. In Whitehall, this new round of cuts could mean cutting programs in fine arts and eliminating athletics and extra-curricular. The message was clear—schools are no longer cutting the number of programs—they’re cutting education quality.
John Mierz, a Whitehall teacher and MEA member, was invited to participate in the discussion. He told the Governor that it’s impossible for districts and staff to do any long-term planning when there’s such funding uncertainty.
Arch Lewis, MEA Research Consultant and a participant in the discussion agreed. “We need a long-term systemic. It’s obvious Prop A isn’t working. We need to get money to schools that will be a permanent revenue source.”
For the short term, the Legislature has 30 days to implement immediate solutions like freezing schedule increases in personal tax exemptions, or having special interest groups pay a percentage of their tax exemptions as a way of closing tax loopholes.
The Governor ended both discussions with the same challenge. “We have to mobilize like we’ve never mobilized before and fix this problem. Contact your legislator and tell them to vote for the needs of public education. Kids only have this moment. The Legislature must be convinced. Are you willing to help me?”
Emergency meetings deal with school funding crisis
In an emergency meeting on Monday, the State Board of Education urged the Governor and the Legislature to immediately find money to reduce the cuts in school funding. Meanwhile, the governor held another round-table discussion in Rochester.
Local MEA leaders and staff attended the meeting. They supplied stories about the cuts in their local districts and its effect on the classroom and students. Oakland County superintendents spoke of cost cutting measures they have been making over the past several years.
Sen. Mike Bishop (R) Rochester, Rep. Tom McMillin (R) Rochester Hills, and Rep. Kim Meltzer (R) Clinton Township were in attendance at the meeting.
At the urging of the Governor, contact your legislator today. Phone, email, or text legislators and tell them we must save public education. Urge them to look for revenue by reforming our antiquated tax structure and fixing our broken school funding system. For our economic survival, education must be a priority.
Dillon Health Care Plan – Prescription for Disaster
Hearing on 5345 Continues
A hearing is scheduled for Thursday, October 29, 2009, in Room 351 of the Capitol for 2 p.m. or after session, whichever is later.
Testifying on behalf the MEA will be Lori Spotts, President of the Tecumseh EA and Superintendent Mike Shibler, Rockford Public Schools.
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