EMO - Pipeline

Pipeline Issues

Jay Anderson, President

September 8, 2009

September 8, 2009

Building Visits & Welcome Back
Welcome back to the 2009-10 school year. I hope you have had a relaxing and rejuvenating break this summer and are revitalized for the coming school year. I am making a point this year of visiting all of your sites over the lunch period, to gather input form you in regards to your working conditions. This being a negotiations year, EM-O and your negotiations team would like to address as many of these issues as we can in negotiations. Thank You for your exemplary work with the students of District 279.

Negotiations
As a show of support for our colleagues we are currently waiting for the District to come to an agreement with the Administrative Support Professionals (most of you will know them as your building secretary and resource managers among others) before beginning meetings on our contract. They have been without a contract for over 14 months now and deserve a settlement soon. Please express your support for them when you see them.

Celebration of the Union
With direction from your Executive Board and the General Membership the “Celebration of the Union” will be held at the Lookout Supper Club 8672 Pineview Lane Maple Grove tomorrow September 9 from 3:00-7:00PM. Please join your colleagues for a great social time to start off the new school year. RSVP today to Barb Warhol either by district e-mail or 763-315-3416.

PAC Donations and Prizes
Those of us who have contributed to the PAC through payroll deduction will receive our gifts we selected last year, later this fall or in early winter after the funds start to be deposited in the account. I know some of you have inquired about this so I wanted to inform all of when they will be available. Those of you not yet contributing please consider contributing as little as $1.00 per check to help in support of passing a local levy or helping to support the election of school board member in upcoming races. If you are in education you are in politics, so please be involved at least at the local level by considering a modest donation.

Training Opportunities
Education Minnesota is providing a resource this year called core trainings to increase the effectiveness of our local. The 3 offerings this year are: Union History, Member Rights, and Developing Ongoing Relationships with Members. We are also planning on having local trainings specific to our contract and our local. Please consider attending 1 or more of these trainings this year. More information will come as plans for these offerings are finalized.

Invite a Colleague to Attend
If you are a member who attends General Membership Meeting (GMM) please invite a colleague or two to join you at the meetings. It is always more fun when you go with someone you know and it is a great way for more members to become involved. I hope we can pack the house.

Facts from the Field – The Weingarten Right……
A reminder that the Weingarten Right gives an employee the right to have a union representative present when subject to questioning which could lead to discipline. This right only applies when the employee reasonably believes the investigation will result in disciplinary action. The right to representation cannot be requested in a situation where there is no reasonable basis for the employee to fear that any adverse impact may result from the meeting.
In situations where the administrator insists that the member attend a meeting without representation, to avoid being insubordinate the member should: 1.) attend the meeting 2.) state that the he/she desires a union representative to be present and 3.) remain silent and take notes.
Last year each member was sent a copy of the Weingarten Right on a blue card. If you have misplaced your card and would like a replacement, please email or call the EM-O office. New employees received their card in the informational materials shared in meetings last week.

Upcoming Events
Sept. 9 Celebrate the Union
Sept. 15 Executive Board
Sept. 24 General Membership
Sept. 29 Executive Board

Jay Anderson Susan Brady

President Education Minnesota Field Staff

October 9, 2009

EM-O Office closed Oct 15-18 for renovations
The office is going to be repainted and re-carpeted among other renovations from October 15-18. We will be open for business as usual on Monday October 19.

Building Visits
Talk with your Building Representatives and have them contact me with a time to come to your site over lunch to hear how the year is going and what your union can do to help you. I am counting on you to keep me informed on what is happening at the building level.

New Teacher Dinner
Those of you, who are new teachers this year, please mark Nov. 17, 2009 on your calendar as EM-O would like to host a dinner in your honor at the Osseo Community Center. We will be sending invitations around the first of November.

Congratulations to Ashley Mathews NVJH
Ashley was the winner of the Office Max “A Day Made Better Award” presented to 1300 teachers nationwide. Office Max started the program 3 years ago in response to the need to help teachers who on the average spend $1200 out of pocket each year to provide needed supplies for their students and classrooms. Please join EM-O in congratulating Ashley for her award. If you want to know more about the program go to: www.adaymadebetter.com/factsheet.htm

Congratulations to the following FB Staff
Jessica Carr, Anne Melville, Kathy Dickinson, Carol Larson, Lynda Krieger, Steve Folkerds, Tim Klein, Cindy Huseby, Ann Williams, and James Oelke on receiving the Sam’s Club Education Award. Join EM-O in congratulating these staff members on their award.

Negotiations
As a show of support for our colleagues we are currently waiting for the District to come to an agreement with the Administrative Support Professionals (most of you will know them as your building secretary and resource managers among others) before beginning meetings on our contract. This will allow the district to concentrate its resources on completing the negotiations with this unit before starting our negotiations. They have been without a contract for over 15 months now and deserve a settlement soon. Please express your support for them when you see them.

PAC Donations and Prizes
Those of us who have contributed to the PAC through payroll deduction will receive your gifts we selected last year, later this fall or in early winter after the funds start to be deposited in the account. I know some of you have inquired about this so I wanted to inform all of when they will be available. Those of you not yet contributing please consider contributing as little as $1.00 per check to help in support of passing a local levy or helping to support the election of school board members in upcoming races. If you are in education you are in politics, so please be involved at least at the local level by considering a modest donation.

Education Minnesota Classroom Grant Program
Through the Education Minnesota Foundation for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, classroom grants are again available for members to apply for. The grants range from $500 to $3000. I am attaching the application and directions for applying for the grant, or go to the Education Minnesota website www.educationminnesota.org under Events & Programs section for the application brochure, or call 1-800-652-9073 or 651-292-4804 for the information. Application deadline is December 11, 2009. If you have additional questions email Pat Reisenger at patricia.reisenger@educationminnesota.org or call her at 1-800-652-9073 or 651-292-4824.

Local ER&D Math Training Opportunities
The following math training opportunities will be offered in the district this year, they can be taken for board credit, college credit through St. Mary’s, or you can time card them. They are a total of 30 hours over the course of 5 to 8 classes. They will be taught by your colleagues how have been trained by the AFT in these research based methods of math instruction. Watch for registration information coming soon. Questions contact Pam Richards: richardsp@district279.org

Thinking Math 2 (Must have completed Thinking Math 1 to take this course)
Second Part of Thinking Math courses present research-based strategies for teaching and learning multiplication, division, and beginning proportional reasoning. This course promotes understanding of basic mathematical properties and laws that will be used when students study algebra.

Thinking Math for Middle School: Journey to Algebra
This course is built for teachers to support students who are struggling with mathematics when they get to middle school and have missed some fundamental concepts that must be learned before they can be successful with middle school curriculum. Teachers learn the progression of necessary concepts that lead students to success in Algebra.

Facts from the Field
The beginning of a new school year is a time of high energy and expectations for a successful year. It is also a time to be prepared if things don’t go as planned.
Few things are more stressful than being questioned regarding your professional behavior, whether it involves an interaction with an administrator, a student, a parent, or a fellow school employee. As a member of Education Minnesota you have a team that will work tirelessly to represent you should an allegation be brought forward. That team includes your local President, elected officers, Field Staff, and legal department. The Union will protect your due process rights by insisting that the district clearly articulate and justify its reasons for discipline and that the member be given the opportunity to defend himself/herself.

Remember: You are not alone…..Use the resources of your Union

Always call for help – contact your Building Representative or call the EM-O office and ask to speak to Susan or Jay. 763-315-3416
Right to Representation – If you believe a meeting with an administrator could lead to discipline or a change in your work environment you have a right to Union representation under the Winegarten Right. If a meeting begins in a professional and friendly manner with an administrator and then becomes negative or accusing, you have the right to ask for representation and that the meeting be halted.

And lastly, I encourage you to review district policy as it applies to your work and to know your rights under the contract. We will be scheduling three “Know Your Contract” sessions this year at EM-O. Dates and times will be sent to your BR soon.

Invite a Colleague to Attend
If you are a member who attends General Membership Meeting (GMM) please invite a colleague or two to join you at the meetings. It is always more fun when you go with someone you know and it is a great way for more members to become involved. I hope we can pack the house.

Upcoming Events
Oct. 15-16 ED MN Professional meetings
Oct. 20 Executive Board
Nov. 3 Executive Board
Nov. 17 Executive Board & New Teacher Dinner
Nov. 19 GMM

Jay Anderson Susan Brady

President Education Minnesota Field Staff

November 4 , 2009

Retirement Seminar
We will be holding our fall retirement seminar on Thursday November 12, 2009 at the EM-O office. There will be two sessions, one at 3:15 and one at 4:45. If interested in attending RSVP Barb Warhol at 763-315-3416 or barb.warhol@educationminnesota.org

New Teacher Dinner
Those of you, who are new teachers this year, please mark Nov. 17, 2009 on your calendar as EM-O is hosting a dinner in your honor at the Osseo Community Center. Invitations were sent out earlier this week.

Negotiations
As a show of support for our colleagues the Administrative Support Professionals (most of you will know them as your building secretary and resource managers among others) we did not begin negotiations until they had a tentative agreement. They now have that agreement and as such we began negotiations on Thursday October 29. We have set an aggressive schedule to complete our negotiations prior to the January 15, 2010 penalty deadline. Thanks for supporting your negotiations team as they work to secure the best possible contract they can.

PAC Donations and Prizes
Those of us who have contributed to the PAC through payroll deduction should be receiving your gift you selected last year. Those of you not yet contributing please consider contributing as little as $1.00 per check (this is only $18.00 per year) to help in support of passing a local levy or helping to support the election of school board members in upcoming races. If you are in education you are in politics, so please be involved at least at the local level by considering a modest donation.

ation Minnesota Classroom Grant Program
Through the Education Minnesota Foundation for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, classroom grants are again available for members. The grants range from $500 to $3000. I am attaching the application and directions for applying for the grant, or go to the Education Minnesota website www.educationminnesota.org under Events & Programs section for the application brochure, or call 1-800-652-9073 or 651-292-4804 for the information. Application deadline is December 11, 2009. If you have additional questions email Pat Reisenger at patricia.reisenger@educationminnesota.org or call her at 1-800-652-9073 or 651-292-4824.

Local ER&D Math Training Opportunities
The following math training opportunities will be offered in the district this year, they can be taken for board credit, college credit through St. Mary’s, or you can time card them. They are a total of 30 hours over the course of 5 to 8 classes. They will be taught by your colleagues who have been trained by the AFT in these research based methods of math instruction. Questions contact Pam Richards: richardsp@district279.org

Facts from the Field
Education Minnesota will be offering opportunities in 3 Core Trainings for members statewide. The trainings are titled “Education Minnesota: Our Shared Legacy”, “Member Rights: “An Overview”, and “Making the Connection: Developing Ongoing Relationships with Members”. The first opportunity for training for the “Shared Legacy” core training will be Monday, November 16th at Park Terrace Elementary in Spring Lake Park from 4:30- 6:30pm with dinner provided. Please contact switt@district11.org to register by this Friday, November 6th.

The Metro Area Council will sponsor the “Member Rights Advocacy” trainings on the following dates:

January 23rd MRA 1 March 13th MRA 2 April 24th MRA 3
MRA 2 MRA 3 MRA 1

All of the above sessions will be held from 8:00 – 3:30 with the location TBD. We will send out a reminder for training opportunities with more detailed information in a later Pipeline.

Questions to Ask Your Financial Advisor
I recently watched a TV commercial about “Questions to ask your Doctor”, and realized “Questions to ask your financial advisor” would make for an interesting article. When I ask clients if they have any questions, often times they don’t respond. Financial planning is complex, and perhaps they don’t know the right questions to ask. Next time you meet with your financial advisor I recommend you ask the following questions:

Am I investing enough money to retire at my ideal age?
Do I have a properly diversified portfolio? (Including international investments and bonds)
What fees/expenses am I paying?

What type of service am I getting for these fees/expenses?
Are there any guarantees or features associated with these fees/expenses?
How does your financial advisor get paid?

If I am unhappy with my investments in the future, how long am I tied into them before I can move money without any penalties?
If I am investing in an insurance product or something with guarantees, what is the financial rating of that company?
Do you understand all aspects of my retirement including my pension, 403(b)/401(k) plan, children and family needs, and my most important short term financial needs over the next 1, 3 and 5 years?
Am I taking maximum advantage of tax-qualified plans including my pre-tax (401(k)/403(b)), post-tax (Roth IRA) plans, and/or my flex plan or health insurance plan sponsored by my employer?

If your advisor cannot answer your questions, I would be happy to provide you with assistance to help you better understand your financial situation. If you have yet to put a financial plan in place, I welcome the opportunity to sit down with you, assess your needs and help you get started. I am always looking for other newsletter topics that are relevant to members’ lives. If you have any ideas or questions you would suggest I write about in the future, please let me know.
Questions on financial planning or interest in a no-cost no-obligation investment review, please contact PJ Scherven, your Education Minnesota ESI financial representative, today at (612) 490-4024 or via e-mail at pjs@tsainvest.com.

* Registered Representative, Securities offered through Advanced Advisor Group, LLC Member: FINRA & SIPC
440 Emerson St N Suite 4, Cambridge MN 55008 763-689-9023
AAG not affiliated with Education Minnesota ESI

Upcoming Events
Nov. 16 Core Training
Nov. 17 Executive Board & New Teacher Dinner
Nov. 19 GMM
Nov. 20-21 Political conference
Dec. 8 Executive Board
Dec. 17 GMM

Jay Anderson Susan Brady

President Education Minnesota Field Staff

December 3, 2009

Representatives to State Convention
Please consider being a representative to the state convention on March 19 & 20. EM-O can send up to 20 representatives and we can also send 7 alternates. Dinner with your colleagues on Friday night and accommodations at the Sheraton can be part of the experience. This year all of the state offices are up for election, so it should be a more exciting than usual convention. Contact Linda Schugg if interested in attending; 763-315-3416 or linda.schugg@educationminnesota.org

CEAP/CROSS Donations
Area social agencies are seeing increased demand this year for their services. To this end, EM-O is offering a match program for donations to either CEAP or CROSS. EM-O will match up to $400 in donations to both agencies to help in this time of need. Please consider a donation. Send your checks to Linda Schugg at EM-O. Thanks in advance from all of those in need this holiday season.

2009 Dues Information
These amounts are based on working Jan. 1 – May 31, 2009 and Sept. 8– Dec. 18, 2009.

EM-O Member      Fair Share
Full-Time 31-40              $736.00 $616.56
¾ Time 21-30                $552.00 $462.40
Half Time 11-20             $368.00 $308.28
Hourly 1-10                   $184.00 $154.16

Nurses Call office Dues amounts vary according to earnings.
Kidstop Instructors Call office Dues amounts vary according to earnings.

Please call the EM-O office for dues paid if you worked a partial year the last school year January – May or this year September – December or if your FTE status changed mid-year. Phone: 763-315-3416 Ask for Linda or Barb.

Negotiations
We have set an aggressive schedule to complete our negotiations prior to the January 15, 2010 penalty deadline. We have had 7 negotiations sessions with the district to this point and are making progress toward a settlement. Thanks for supporting your negotiations team as they work to secure the best possible contract they can.

PAC Donations
Those of you not yet contributing to the PAC please consider contributing as little as $1.00 per check (this is only $18.00 per year) to help in support of passing a local levy or helping to support the election of local candidates in upcoming elections. If you are in education you are in politics, so please be involved at least at the local level by considering a modest donation.

Facts from the Field

In the last issue of Pipeline I encouraged you to attend the CORE trainings sponsored by Education Minnesota. The following is an update of the information for the Member Rights Advocacy sessions. Each session is sponsored by our Metro Area Council. Jay sent the registration information out to you 12-2-09 through the building reps.

January 23rd   MRA 1                March 13th    MRA 2                                                      April 24th    MRA 3
                       MRA 2                                   MRA 3                                                      MRA 1
Embassy Suites, St. Paul                              Best Western Kelly Inn, St. Paul                 Best Western Kelly Inn, St. Paul

Happy Holidays from the EM-O Staff
Barb Warhol, Linda Schugg, Susan Brady, & Jay Anderson

Upcoming Events
Dec. 8 Executive Board
Dec. 17 GMM

Jay Anderson Susan Brady
President Education Minnesota Field Staff

January 15, 2010

2009 Dues Information
These amounts are based on working Jan. 1 – May 31, 2009 and Sept. 8– Dec. 18, 2009.

                                     EM-O        Fair Share
Full-Time 31-40              $736.00    $616.56
¾ Time 21-30                $552.00    $462.40
Half Time 11-20              $368.00    $308.28
Hourly 1-10                    $184.00    $154.16

Nurses Call office Dues amounts vary according to earnings.
Kidstop Instructors Call office Dues amounts vary according to earnings.

Building Visits
I mentioned to the building reps I would be available to come out to your site to discuss issues with you. If your site would like me to attend a meeting with members have your Building Rep. contact me. One area that was mentioned is explanation of insurance plans.

PAC Donations
Those of you not yet contributing to the PAC please consider contributing as little as $1.00 per check (this is only $16.00 per year) to help in support of passing a local levy or helping to support the election of local candidates in upcoming elections. If you are in education you are in politics, so please be involved at least at the local level by considering a modest donation.

VFW State Teacher of the Year
Please join me in congratulating your colleague Marti Mix from BJH on being selected VFW Teacher of the year. She is now competing for the national award. Congratulations Marti and good luck in the national competition.

Flora Rogge Memorial Scholarship
The Education Minnesota - OSSEO Flora Rogge Memorial Scholarship Committee is pleased to announce the availability of two $1,000 scholarships to be used for college or vocational education in Minnesota or states with reciprocity. Flora was an Osseo teacher, OFT President, and President of the Minnesota Federation of Teachers.

The applicant must be a graduating senior of Maple Grove Senior High, Osseo Senior High, Park Center Senior High, Osseo Alternative Learning Center or a graduating dependent of a District 279 employee.

The applicant planning on attending a college or vocational school must have maintained a 3.0 grade point average, a "B", or better during grades 10, 11, and 12.

Applications will be available in the Career Resource Center at Maple Grove Senior High, the Career Resource Center at Osseo Senior High, the Career Learning Center at Park Center Senior High, Osseo Alternative Learning Center and the office of Education Minnesota – OSSEO.

Applications must be received by the Scholarship Committee, Education Minnesota - OSSEO, 10200 73rd Ave. N., #126, Maple Grove, MN 55369, by March 26, 2010.

Flora Rogge Memorial Scholarship Readers
If you would like to be a reader for these applications contact Linda Schugg at: linda.schugg@educationminnesota.org . We would like to have six volunteers.

Facts from the Field
President Anderson and the Executive Board continue to encourage members to make a positive difference in education by working to elect pro-education candidates in the 2010 elections. A first step that I would like you to consider taking in becoming politically active is to participate in a precinct caucus. Precinct caucuses are an important part of what makes the political system work.
Going to a precinct caucus provides you with an opportunity to voice a concern, support a pro-education candidate, or champion education issues. Caucuses are open to the public and anyone can attend the caucus to observe. To participate you must reside in the precinct and must not be an active member of any other political party. The format for precinct caucuses is laid out precisely by Minnesota law. The caucus must begin at 7 p.m. and Robert’s Rules of Order for parliamentary procedure are used throughout the meeting.
Below you will find links for information regarding location, times, dates, and FAQ’s regarding the forthcoming caucuses. I have also included an invitation to participate in a caucus training sponsored by the North Suburban Service Unit in Spring Lake Park.
Links: www.ewald.com
elections.dept@.mn.us

NSSU (North Suburban Service Unit) will be hosting a caucus training.
Where: Park Terrace Elementary, 8301 Terrace Rd NE, Spring Lake Park, in the media center
When: Monday, January 25 from 4:45-5:45
What: A DFL caucus simulation
Why a DFL caucus simulation: No Republican candidate for governor filled out an Education Minnesota questionnaire. Not a single Republican candidate was willing to attend a screening with Education Minnesota’s Political Action Committee. If our union endorses a candidate, we will most likely endorse a candidate who filled out a questionnaire and answered questions from our members.
Why attend: The caucuses allow you to:

Share your story of education with neighbors, activists, candidates and elected officials.
Vote in a straw poll for your favorite candidate.
Influence the party platform on education.
Begin the process of becoming a delegate to the state convention where you help endorse a pro-education candidate.

Please RSVP to Sandy Miller, Field Staff at sandy.miller@educationminnesota.org to let us know that you will be attending.

Mortgage and Real Estate workshops offered by ESI
I am attaching a PDF file to this Pipeline offering informational workshops in regards to mortgages and real estate transactions.

Upcoming Events
January 21 GMM
January 26 Exec. Brd.
February 9 Exec. Brd.
February 18 GMM
February 23 Exec. Brd.

Jay Anderson, President Susan Brady, Education Minnesota Field Staff

February 5, 2010

Back Pay & New Rates of Pay
The back pay and new rates for those making lane or performance increments and the $700 cash payment for those not making a change will be processed on the March 20 paycheck.

Couples in the District with Medical Coverage
The error in the deductions for medical premiums for couples in the district will be corrected over the next two pay periods this year’s amount should be refunded on the 2-5-10 check and the deductions for last year should be corrected on the 2-20-10 check. Go back and look at your check stubs on MyView and verify the amounts are correct. If not contact payroll and let them know of the problem.

Union Celebration March 11 at Lookout
Please come and join your colleagues for a relaxing social time on March 11, 2010 at the Lookout Supper Club in Maple Grove. As with past celebrations the hearty appetizers will be provided and a cash bar will be available for you to purchase beverages. The social will run from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Hope to see you all there.

District Wide Insurance Meetings
I am presenting informational insurance meetings at many sites across the district, to inform members of the monetary impact of the health insurance plan they select for next year. You are welcome to attend any of the site meetings if it fits your schedule. Or on March 12 mark reporting day you have permission from the Superintendant to attend an informational meeting at MGJH at 2:00 PM in their auditorium.

2009 Dues Information
These amounts are based on working Jan. 1 – May 31, 2009 and Sept. 8– Dec. 18, 2009.

Nurses Call office Dues amounts vary according to earnings.
Kidstop Instructors Call office Dues amounts vary according to earnings.

The applicant planning on attending a college or vocational school must have maintained a 3.0 grade point average, a "B", or better during grades 10, 11, and 12.

Applications must be received by the Scholarship Committee, Education Minnesota - OSSEO, 10200 73rd Ave. N., #126, Maple Grove, MN 55369, by March 26, 2010.

Upcoming Events
February 9 Exec. Brd.
February 18 GMM
February 23 Exec. Brd.

Jay Anderson Susan Brady

President Education Minnesota Field Staff

March 5, 2010

Lobby Day
I am looking for members to join Susan and I at a lobby day at the capitol on April 7. We will meet with as many of the legislators who represent our district as possible over the course of the day and tell them our local story. It is very important we have teachers tell how the current funding situation has affected the work you do in the classroom. You do not need any special training just a willingness and passion to share your own personal story with the legislators. Substitutes will be provided by EM-O. If interested in attending contact Linda Schugg at linda.schugg@educationminnesota.org.

Summer Seminar
Summer Seminar at the College of St. Ben’s on August 2-4 is a great opportunity for you to learn more about your union and also about personal issues like your finances. Areas you can choose from are: Building Leadership, Day in the Life of a Local Union, Achieving an Equitable Contract Settlement, Professional Development, Personal Growth, Political Action and Organizing, and Especially for Newer Members. You can also earn CEU units for attendance at many of these sessions. If interested in attending contact Linda Schugg at linda.schugg@educationminnesota.org. We will get more information to you as it becomes available.

Back Pay & New Rates of Pay
The back pay and new rates for those making lane or performance increments and the $700 cash payment for those not making a change will be processed on the March 20 paycheck.

Couples in the District with Medical Coverage
The error in the deductions for medical premiums for couples in the district covered under the teacher’s contract should have been corrected over the February pay periods. Refunds were processed as follows: on the 2-5-10 check deductions from 2009-10 should have been refunded and the deductions for 2008-09 should have been corrected on the 2-20-10 check. Go back and look at your check stubs on MyView and verify the amounts refunded were correct, if not contact payroll and let them know of the problem.

Union Celebration March 11 at Lookout
Please come and join your colleagues (All Education Minnesota Members in the district) for a relaxing social time on March 11, 2010 at the Lookout Supper Club in Maple Grove. As with past celebrations the hearty appetizers will be provided and a cash bar will be available for you to purchase beverages. The social will run from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. RSVP linda.schugg@educationminnesota.org Hope to see you all there.

Company of the Month
Education Minnesota-OSSEO has been recognized by the Lookout Supper Club as company of the month for March! This gives any employees of District 279 (with their ID badge) a 10% discount on dine in food. They are also offering a free hors d’oeuvre buffet on March 18 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. If attending the buffet on March 18 please RSVP linda.schugg@educationminnesota.org.

2009 Dues Information
These amounts are based on working Jan. 1 – May 31, 2009 and Sept. 8– Dec. 18, 2009.

Nurses Call office Dues amounts vary according to earnings.
Kidstop Instructors Call office Dues amounts vary according to earnings.

The applicant planning on attending a college or vocational school must have maintained a 3.0 grade point average, a "B", or better during grades 10, 11, and 12.

Applications and reference letters from staff must be received by the Scholarship Committee, Education Minnesota - OSSEO, 10200 73rd Ave. N., #126, Maple Grove, MN 55369, by March 26, 2010.

Upcoming Events
March 9 Executive Board Meeting
March 11 Union Celebration Lookout
March 18 Free hors d’oeuvres at Lookout
March 19-20 Education Minnesota Representative Convention
March 24 Executive Board Meeting
April 7 Lobby Day
April 8 Executive Board Meeting
April 14 GMM

Jay Anderson Susan Brady

President Education Minnesota Field Staff

May 14 , 2010

Summer Seminar
Summer Seminar at the College of St. Ben’s on August 2-4 is a great opportunity for you to learn more about your union and also about personal issues like your finances. Areas you can choose from are: Building Leadership, Day in the Life of a Local Union, Achieving an Equitable Contract Settlement, Professional Development, Personal Growth, Political Action and Organizing, and Especially for Newer Members. You can also earn CEU units for attendance at many of these sessions. If interested in attending contact Linda Schugg at linda.schugg@educationminnesota.org or Barb Warhol at barb.warhol@educationminnesota.org . BR’s have a brochure on the seminar with specific information; ask them for the brochure to look up specific information for registration. GM approved a $100 stipend for those attending all 3 days of the Seminar. Deadline for getting your registrations to Linda is Tuesday May 25.

LCAT (Local Contract Action Team) Training in Osseo
Executive Board, Prospective Negotiators, Building Representatives and other members in leadership positions within the union will have the opportunity to receive training in organization, contract negotiations, and settlement strategies from AFT and ED MN trainers on June 15, 16. This is to address one of the concerns brought up at GMM meetings in regards to the fact members felt we needed more training for our negotiators. This program gets more than the negotiators involved in the process, and brings the collective strength of the organization to bear on the negotiations process. We are excited to be able to be a pilot site for this training in the state of MN. If interested in attending contact Linda Schugg at linda.schugg@educationminnesota.org or Barb Warhol at barb.warhol@educationminnesota.org . GM approved a $100 stipend for up to 35 members to attend all 3 days of the Training. Deadline for getting your registrations to Linda is Tuesday May 25.

New Insurance Provider offered through AFT
I am happy to announce we have a new relationship with Joe Cassidy and Metlife through your union benefits. I had Joe review my insurance and he saved me a substantial amount on my auto and watercraft policies. If you would like him to look into your policies his contact information follows:

MetLife Auto & Home
If You’re Ready to Save
on Auto Insurance...
Now you can with your Property and Casualty Specialist Joe Cassidy!

Union members qualify for significant discounts.
Call today 763-493-4352 or go to my website www.cassidy.metlife.com

In addition to saving on your insurance; you will receive a gas card just for taking time to compare!

News from Education Minnesota
May 2010 newsletters
Legislative session to end in May, multiple education-related bills still being discussed
As the Minnesota Legislature moves toward concluding its 2010 session, Education Minnesota is focused on advocating for what works to improve student achievement and what will keep high-quality educators in public schools.
For timely updates on key issues such as alternative teacher licensure, overall decisions on school funding, pensions and support to end the achievement gap, go to www.educationminnesota.org. Log in and go to Issues & Advocacy, then At the Legislature.
To contact your legislators about any of the bills being discussed, go to www.educationminnesota.org and click on the “Tell the governor and legislators to make education top priority” link.
Renegade Improv Team to perform at Summer Seminar in August
The Renegade Improv Team will perform at Summer Seminar Aug. 3 after lunch.
The team is made up of fresh, funny talent that will perform game-style improv made famous by “Whose Line Is It Anyway” with their own competitive twist. Two teams of improvisers compete for points and laughter.
Summer Seminar is Education Minnesota’s annual skills development conference. It takes place Aug. 2-4 at the College of St. Benedict, St. Joseph, Minn. For more information on the conference, go to www.educationminnesota.org/events/summerseminar.
Michele Norris to speak at 2010 Professional Conference; workshop proposals being accepted
Michele Norris, host of National Public Radio’s “All Things Considered” and a seasoned observer of the national scene in politics, education, race and other vital topics, will be the featured speaker at Education Minnesota’s Professional Conference this year.
Norris has reported extensively on education, inner-city issues, the nation’s drug problem and poverty during a more than 20-year career that includes stints at the Chicago Tribune, Los Angeles Times, Washington Post and ABC News.
The conference will take place Oct. 21-22 at the Saint Paul RiverCentre.
Education Minnesota is still looking for presenters for both days of the conference. Interested parties can find more information, as well as the Request for Proposal form, at www.educationminnesota.org/events/conference. Completed forms must be returned to Education Minnesota by May 21.
Sign up now to work at Education Minnesota’s State Fair booth
Education Minnesota is looking for volunteers at its State Fair booth to help make photo calendars.
If you would like to give three hours of your time to the union’s most popular public outreach project, call Chris Carlin after May 7 at 651-292-4875.
Volunteers receive an admission ticket to the fairgrounds in Falcon Heights, reimbursement for mileage and parking, and a custom-designed Education Minnesota State Fair T-shirt. The 2010 fair will run from Aug. 26 through Sept. 6.
Unions urge quick passage of law to save educator jobs nationwide
Educator unions joined the Obama administration to urge quick passage of Senate legislation to save educators’ jobs.
Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, introduced a bill that would provide $23 billion more in federal funds to avert the expected massive wave of educator layoffs before the next school year.
The National Education Association estimates that at least 125,000 American educators face imminent layoffs because of dire financial circumstances in districts throughout the country. NEA President Dennis Van Roekel and American Federation of Teachers Randi Weingarten addressed the urgent need for the Senate to act. The House has passed similar legislation. For more information on the bill, go to www.educationminnesota.org.
Midwest School for Women Workers
The Labor Education Service will sponsor the 2010 Midwest School for Women Workers July 28–Aug. 1 on the Minneapolis campus of the University of Minnesota.
The Midwest School for Women Workers is one of four regional women’s schools sponsored by the United Association for Labor Education and hosted by university labor education programs.
The schools are a place where women unionists can share experiences, learn new skills and give one another support.
At the 2010 Midwest School, general
sessions and workshops are designed to provide participants tools to address the challenges of tough economic times.
The Labor Education Service is recruiting
volunteers at local unions to help get the word out about the Midwest School for Women Workers. For more information on volunteering to promote this event, e-mail Deborah Rosenstein at dgr@umn.edu.
NEA’s Priority Schools Campaign focuses on turn-around schools
The National Education Association is making low-performing schools a priority with their Priority Schools Campaign.
The campaign hopes that “by leading permanent changes in these Priority Schools, we will transform the lives of tens of thousands of students by significantly raising academic achievement,” according to their website, www.neapriorityschools.org. NEA hopes to work side-by-side with communities and with policymakers in
state capitals, Congress and the Obama administration; to partner in pursuit of innovative programs to measure student success and teacher quality; and to fight to attract and keep the best educators and necessary resources for the schools of greatest need. The campaign’s website also shares stories from all over the country related to this topic.
AFT’s Fight for America’s Future Tour kicks off, focuses on financial issues
American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten is touring the country to draw attention to the problems that states face in dealing with the fiscal crisis.
She will be talking to AFT members, leaders and elected officials about what can be done to preserve and create good jobs and protect the vital public services that AFT members provide.
Weingarten will be in Minneapolis May 19. For more information on the tour, go to www.aft.org/fight4america/.
Grocery coupons now available through Access to Savings
Access to Savings, the discount program for Education Minnesota members, now includes a Grocery Coupons tab.
By clicking on the tab, members can search for coupons available in their area, even their neighborhood grocery stores.
Coupons are available for food, household items, toys and games, health care products and much more.
For more information on these deals and to view additional savings, go to
www.educationminnesota.org/membership/savingsanddiscounts and click on “Log in to Access to Savings.” Members will need to be logged in to the website to view this page.
Save 15 percent at The Walking Company
Education Minnesota members can save 15 percent on all purchases at The Walking Company. The Walking Company has the world’s largest selection of premium comfort footwear. For more information, go to www.neamb.com.
Members can save on weekly or weekend airport rentals
Education Minnesota members can save $5 per day, up to $35, off a weekly or weekend rental of an economy or higher class car at participating Hertz airport locations in the US, Canada and Puerto Rico through May 31.
Go to www.hertz.com/neamb, call your travel agent, or call Hertz directly at 800-654-2210 to make your reservation. Be sure to use CDP 50655 to get your discount, and PC 142564 too.
Prize drawings continue through NEA Member Benefits
The National Education Association’s Member Benefits program is continuing to offer prizes and giveaways to educators throughout May and June.
Prizes include $5,000 cash, two baskets filled with $500 worth of gift cards, five $200 Best Buy gift cards and four $250 Visa gift cards.
Members can enter online at www.neamb.com. The drawings for each prize will happen on various dates until June 3.

Have a great summer break!

Upcoming Events
May 20 GMM
June 15, 16 LCAT Training
August 2, 3, 4 Summer Seminar

Jay Anderson Susan Brady

President Education Minnesota Field Staff

June 9 , 2010

Flora Rogge Scholarship Winners
Congratulations to this year’s winners of the Flora Rogge Scholarship: Colette Nix of OSH and Hannan Turpin of MGSH.

Summer Contact With BR’s and Members
BR’s & Members we would like to have you check your school emails on Wednesday’s throughout the summer months so we can share information with you from the EM-O office. If we have items to share we will do it through email over the summer. Linda Schugg or Susan Brady will be available Monday through Thursday during the summer from 8:00 AM until 2:00 PM.

Member Rights Advocacy Training Coming to OSSEO in August

When: Member Rights I will be held on Monday, August 23rd from 8:30 until 2:30. Member Rights II will be held on Wednesday, August 25th 8:30 until 2:30.

Where: Education Minnesota – OSSEO office. 10200 73rd Avenue, Suite 126 Maple Grove

About MRA Training: As a teacher, you already have many of the skills that a Member Rights Advocate should possess. You have good listening skills, you know how to offer support and resources to troubled individuals, you know how to build consensus, and you know the importance of paying attention to detail. Upon completion of Phases I and II of the training you will be certified as a Member Rights Advocate, with the skills and information needed to represent and assist local members in a variety of situations. Phase I lays the groundwork for the skill development that comes in Phase II.

Details: A continental breakfast will be available beginning at 8:00am before the training begins. Lunch will be provided as well.
RSVP to linda.schugg@educationminnesota.org or call the office at 763-315-3416 if you plan to participate.

Help with Candidate Screenings or Political Get Out the Vote Activities
Please consider helping with Political Activities when asked this summer or fall, it is vitally important we have a supportive legislature and governor as we move into a difficult political season this next year.

Have a great summer break!

Jay Anderson Susan Brady

President Education Minnesota Field Staff