January-February 2018 Vol. 49, Issue 3

TheTEACH teaching and learning journal of the Education Association Report on teacher Making the sexual misconduct system work could bring changes to licensure, discipline Evaluations: for you Following a report by the Tennessee The teacher evaluation system in Tennessee has a lot Comptroller’s office identifying of room for improvement, and TEA is working to make shortcomings in how students are meaningful changes in the legislature. In the meantime, teachers must understand how to make the most of the protected against sexual misconduct current system. by educators, state legislators are expected to take up the issue this “Teachers have never been opposed to evaluation, we session to clean up the language in just want it to be a meaningful and accurate measure of our work,” said TEA President Barbara Gray. “Teachers state law around teacher licensure are committed to ensuring their students receive the and discipline. very best education. We want those checks in place to “We appreciate the hard work of let us know where we are excelling and where we need the comptroller’s office to research to improve for our students to succeed.” this critical issue, and look forward TEA believes the evaluation of professional educators to working with the General is one of many means to improve professional practice, Assembly and others to strengthen and that the ultimate goal of the evaluation process the system to remove teachers should be the improvement of instruction. Therefore, who pose a danger to students,” evaluation should be a collaborative process. A said TEA Executive Director cooperative approach to evaluations involving the educator and the evaluator should result in more Carolyn Crowder. “We continue effective instructional practices. to work with our members on how to identify warning signs of TEA is prepared to ensure that school districts misconduct, and how to take action implement all evaluation policies fairly and objectively. system will encourage and promote a common vision of Be sure you understand and are prepared for the effective teaching and collaboration among all educators to protect students.” in support of student achievement. evaluation process by reviewing the guidelines and tips The issue of protecting students contained here. TEA believes an effective evaluation Evaluation, cont. page 7 Licensure and discipline cont. page 8 TEA online professional development launching in March Starting in mid-March, TEA members will be able to access high quality professional development online through the new TEA Professional Development Portal. The portal will offer engaging courses to boost best teaching practices, convenient online training from any device in the comfort of your own home, as well as an education tracker tool that automatically records and monitors learning progress. TEA online professional development cont. page 8 Celebrate Read Across Tennessee! Ruffy says “dig into reading” with bookmarks and coloring pages available for TEA members. Please contact your UniServ to request materials (page 6). RUFFY Pull-out poster inside! Part of NEA’s Read Across America. THE PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION OF TENNESSEE Set students up for success, It’s time to demand more inspire them to read! respect for our profession By TEA President Barbara Gray By TEA Executive Director Carolyn Crowder

Reading is one of the most important skills As educators, we are most comfortable in we learn as children. Strong readers are more our classrooms. We are at home in front of likely to succeed, not only in the classroom, our students following our lesson plan for but in all facets of life. the day. Unfortunately, as long as elected As we prepare to celebrate Read Across officials are meddling in public education Tennessee in a few weeks, it’s a good time we must also learn to be comfortable being to reflect on if and how we are inspiring our an advocate for our profession and our students to read. students. Research by the National Education It is easy to get caught up in the day-to- Association shows having kids read a lot is day of teaching – there are barely enough one of the crucial components of becoming a hours in the day to keep up with all that good reader. Young readers need to become is required of an effective teacher. It is proficient at recognizing letters and sounds. The only way to get good critically important though to also keep up with what your state at it is to practice, practice, practice. legislators are doing in Nashville. The U.S. Department of Education found that, generally, the more It’s not the politics that matter, it’s our profession. students read for fun on their own time, the higher their reading While the legislature is in session, discussions and debates about scores. public education are happening every day, and decisions are being I know I am preaching made that will impact all public school educators. How do we move to the choir. Educators There is one legislative issue in particular this year that should understand better than have every licensed teacher in the state on their feet and ready [reading] from the list of anyone the significance to advocate – a TEA proposal to finally establish an independent of reading proficiency. things they have to do, standards board made up of professional educators to oversee I’m not trying to licensing decisions. to the list of things they convince you of its importance, but rather Did you know that of the State Board of Education’s nine want to do? challenge you to join me appointed members who oversee licensure decisions for teachers, in thinking of new ways only one is actually to engage students and an educator? It is Legislators love to talk about their parents when it comes to reading. absurd. how much they respect How can we as educators help our students of all ages develop a love The people appointed of reading? How do we move it from the list of things they have to to make policies on and appreciate teachers. do, to the list of things they want to do? How can we help parents what will help our Supporting this proposal understand the importance of encouraging their child to read, but students succeed to also recognize the importance of their child seeing their parents and who is an would be an easy way to put reading? effective teacher their words into action. There are many resources available for educators on this topic, do not have any including your local and school libraries. Ensuring all students have a professional training registered library card, promoting opportunities for students to visit or experience as educators. the local library during the school year through field trips, after school If I were a doctor or a lawyer, or even a cosmetologist, decisions programs, or evenings “meet-ups” can go a long way toward students regarding my professional license would be made by a board discovering what they actually enjoy reading. More resources are also made up largely of my peers. available through the TEA and NEA websites. As proposed by TEA, the new independent standards board I hope you will join me in looking for ways to encourage the young would hold the authority to determine the requirements to earn readers in your classroom and your life to discover their love of and retain a teaching license. The board would also have the reading. authority to rule on revoking a teacher’s license with cause. This seems like a pretty reasonable ask to me. Legislators love to talk about how much they respect and appreciate teachers. Supporting this proposal would be an easy way to put their words into action. If you agree that the teaching profession deserves the respect of establishing an independent standards board of actual educators, join me in advocating for this important issue. Watch for more on this proposal in the next issue of The Advocate.

BLACK CLASSROOM TEACHER EAST Diamond Kelley Teach (USPS 742-450, ISSN 15382907) is published MANAGING EDITOR: Amanda Chaney DISTRICT 2 Michele Bowman (865) 679-6523 Steve McCloud; Jim Wrye; TECHNOLOGY & in August, October, Jan/Feb, and March/April by the [email protected] DISTRICT 3 Robert Holder (865) 617-1179 (423) 510-1400 BUILDING OPERATIONS MANAGER: Galen Riggs; Tennessee Education Association, 801 Second Avenue ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Jim Wrye DISTRICT 4 Connie Mitchell (865) 609-1702 BLACK CLASSROOM TEACHER MIDDLE COMPTROLLER: David Shipley; UNISERV FIELD North, Nashville TN 37201-1099. Periodicals postage paid EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & PUBLISHER: DISTRICT 5 Jeanette Omarkhail (423) 413-9114 Brenda Munusamy (931) 433-0918 MANAGERS: Karla Carpenter; Leigh Phillips; STAFF at Nashville, TN, and additional offices. POSTMASTER: Carolyn Crowder DISTRICT 6 Jennifer Eilender (931) 704-2487 BLACK CLASSROOM TEACHER WEST Tiffany Reed ATTORNEYS: John Allen, Virginia A. McCoy; Send address changes to TENNESSEE EDUCATION DISTRICT 7 Jim Gifford (615) 430-6233 (901) 412-2759 , 801 Second Avenue North, Tennessee Education GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COORDINATOR: Drew ASSOCIATION Teach DISTRICT 8 Fred Riley (615) 876-0009 STATE SPECIAL SCHOOLS Ginger Henderson Nashville, TN 37201-1099. Periodical postage paid at Sutton; COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR: Amanda Association DISTRICT 9 Stephen Henry (615) 519-5691 (865) 548-4615 Nashville, TN, and additional offices. The subscription 801 Second Avenue North Chaney; COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR: price of $3.06 is allocated from annual membership dues DISTRICT 10 Randall Woodard (615) 594-5632 NEW TEACHER Hope Shields (901) 239-1232 Nashville, TN 37201-1099 Alexei Smirnov; INSTRUCTIONAL ADVOCACY & of $258.00 for active members; $129.00 for associate, DISTRICT 11 Brandi Adams (731) 439-3476 ESP Sandra McDurmon (901)237-2866 Telephone: (615) 242-8392, PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COORDINATORS: education support and staff members; $16.00 for retired DISTRICT 12 Janis Carroll (731) 431-2387 TN NEA DIRECTOR Tanya Coats (865) 308-2787 Rhonda Thompson; ADVOCACY HOTLINE members; and $10.00 for student members. Member of Toll Free: (800) 342-8367, (800) 342-8262 DISTRICT 13 Renee Baum (901) 604-2035 TN NEA DIRECTOR Karen Anderson (423) 741-9682 COORDINATORS: Forestine Cole, Gera Summerford & State Education Association of Communicators (SEAC). Fax: (615) 259-4581 DISTRICT 14 Kenyon Cook (901) 605-7080 STEA MEMBER Celeste Randall (615) 335-0217 Cynthia Wood. Website: www.teateachers.org DISTRICT 15 Neshellda Johnson (901) 857-6042 TN RETIRED Linda McCrary (615) 888-7026 Postmaster: Send address changes to ADMINISTRATOR EAST Carrie Clabo (865) 603-3791 * Executive Committee UniServ Staff contact information TENNESSEE EDUCATION ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS ADMINISTRATOR MIDDLE Margaret Thompson AT LARGE RETIRED DIRECTOR ON NEA BOARD Teach, PRESIDENT: Barbara Gray* (800) 342-8367 (615) 649-1514 JoAnn Smith-Mashburn (423) 914-2818 can be found on page 6. 801 Second Avenue North, VICE PRESIDENT: Beth Brown* (931) 779-8016 ADMINISTRATOR WEST Dennis Kimbrough Nashville, TN 37201-1099. SECRETARY-TREASURER: Carolyn Crowder (901) 494-0105 TEA HEADQUARTERS STAFF (615) 242-8392 HIGHER EDUCATION Josephine McQuail EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Carolyn Crowder; ASST. DISTRICT 1 LaDawn Hudgins* (423) 384-3585 (931) 520-0449 EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS: Terrance Gibson;

State Community College. District 4 — Jason City, Loudon Co., Meigs Co., Morgan Co., Oneida, (615)476-3161 (Dalton), fax: (855)299-4968 fax: (844)270-8083; Assns: Bradford, Crockett Contact TEA White, KCEA, 2411 Magnolia Avenue, Knoxville, Overton Co., Rhea-Dayton Co., Roane Co., (Campbell), (855)299-5837 (Dalton); Assns: Dept. Co., Dyer Co., Dyersburg, Dyersburg State Tennessee Education Association TN 37917; (865)522-9793, fax: (865)522-9866; Scott Co., York Institute. District 9 — Jackie of Higher Ed., Metropolitan Nashville, TN School Community College, Gibson Co., Hardeman Co., 801 Second Avenue N., Nashville, TN 37201-1099 Assns: Knox, Pellisippi State Comm. College, UT- Pope, 2326 Valley Grove Dr., Murfreesboro, TN For The Blind, MTSU, Murfreesboro City, NSCC, Haywood Co., Humboldt, Lake Co., Lauderdale (615) 242-8392, (800) 342-8367 Knoxville, TSD. District 5— Tom Hopkins, P.O. 37128;phone: (615)898-1060, fax: (855) 301-8214, Rutherford, TSU. District 14 — Maria Uffelman, Co., Milan, Obion Co., Tipton Co., Trenton, FAX (615) 259-4581 Box 5502, Oak Ridge, TN 37831; (423)416-7330, Assns: Bedford Co., Bledsoe Co., Coffee Co., P.O. Box 99, Cumberland City, TN 37050; phone: Union City. District 18/19 — Keyth Harrison, fax: (855)301-8366; Assns: Alcoa, Anderson Co., Franklin Co., Grundy Co., Manchester, Marion Co., (931)827-3333, fax: (855)299-4925; Assns: Austin Memphis, TN; (901)305-2467, fax: (855)320- UniServ Coordinators Blount Co., Clinton, Etowah, Maryville, McMinn Moore Co., Motlow State Community College, Peay State University, Clarksville-Montgomery 8737;—Assns: Bartlett, Collierville, Fayette Co., District 1 — Harry Farthing, P.O. Box 298, Co. (except Athens City - see District 7), Monroe Sequatchie Co., Tullahoma. District 10 — Jeff Co., Henry Co., Houston Co., Paris, Stewart Co., Germantown-Arlington-Lakeland, Millington, Elizabethton, TN 37644; phone: (423)262-8035, Co., Oak Ridge, Polk Co., Sweetwater. District Garrett, P.O. Box 1326, Lebanon, TN 37088-1326; Weakley Co., UT-Martin. District 15 — Tim Southwest State Community College, University fax: (866)379-0949; Assns: Bristol, Carter Co., 6 — Shannon Bain, P.O. Box 3452, Lebanon, TN (615)630-2605, fax (855)320-8755; Assns: Clay Co., Greene, P.O. Box 354, Goodlettsville, TN 37070; of Memphis. District 18/19 — Karla Carpenter, Elizabethton, Johnson Co., Hancock Co., Hawkins 37088, phone: (615)547-7769, fax: (844)274-0765; Jackson Co., Macon Co., Pickett Co., Robertson phone: (615)864-1984, fax: (888)519-4879; UniServ Field Manager; UniServ Directors: Co., Kingsport, Northeast State Community Assns: Cannon Co., Cumberland Co., Cumberland Co., Smith Co., Sumner Co., Trousdale Co. District Assns: Benton Co., Central, Cheatham Co., Reginald Fentress, Tom Marchand, 6520 Stage College, Rogersville, Sullivan Co. District 2 — University, DeKalb Co., Lebanon, Putnam Co., 11/13 — Antoinette Lee, P.O. Box 1412, Antioch, Clarksburg, Decatur Co., Dickson Co., Hickman Road, Bartlett, TN 38134; phone/fax (901)379- Jennifer Gaby, P.O. Box 70, Afton, TN 37616; Van Buren Co., Warren Co., Wilson Co., White TN 37013; (615)308-5293, fax: (888)519-7331; Co., Humphreys Co., Huntingdon, Lewis Co., 6939; United Education Association of Shelby (423)234-0700, fax: (855)299-0723; Assns: Cocke Co., TTU. District 7 — Theresa Turner, HCEA Assns: FSSD, Williamson, TN Dept. of Ed. District McKenzie, Perry Co., West Carroll. District 16 County, www.unitedshelby.org. Co., Greene Co., East Tennessee State University, 4655 Shallowford Road, Chattanooga, TN 12 — Sue Ogg; P.O. Box 210486, Nashville, TN — Lorrie Butler, P.O. Box 387, Henderson, TN Greeneville, Hamblen Co., Johnson City, 37411; (423)485-9535, fax: (423)485-9512; Assns: 37211-0486; (615)856-0503, fax: (855)427-6660 38340; (731)989-4860, fax: (855)299-4591; Assns: Newport, Unicoi Co., Washington Co. District Athens City, Bradley Co., Chattanooga State — Assns: Fayetteville City, Giles Co., Lawrence Chester Co., Jackson-Madison Co., Jackson State www.teateachers.org 3 — Tina Parlier, P.O. Box 70288, Knoxville, TN Community College, Cleveland, Hamilton Co., Co., Lincoln Co., Marshall Co., Maury Co., Wayne Community College, Hardin Co., Henderson 37938-0288, (865)688-1175, fax: (866)518-3104; www.nea.org UT-Chattanooga. District 8 — Josh Trent, P.O. Co. District 11/13 — Mary Campbell, Susan Co., Lexington, McNairy Co., West Tennessee Assns: Campbell Co., Claiborne Co., Grainger Box 451, Livingston, TN 38570, (931)279-9530, Dalton, Metro Nashville, 531 Fairground Court, School for the Deaf. District 17 — Terri Jones, Co., Jefferson Co., Sevier Co., Union Co., Walters fax: (855)299-5674; Assns: Fentress Co., Lenior Nashville, TN 37211; (615)347-6578 (Campbell), P.O. Box 2140, Cordova, TN 38088; (901)258-3902, Members voice opinions, set policy at NEA and TEA Rep Assemblies TEA’s strength and vibrancy comes from members two-page section. All candidates will be listed on willing to get involved and speak up on issues ballots which local association presidents will receive that matter to our profession. Two of the best by March 1. opportunities for TEA members to make their voices For Category 1, NEA members will vote for two heard and have an impact on the future of the district delegates based on the district in which association is to be a delegate to the TEA and/or NEA they teach. Category 1 includes candidates who are representative assemblies. classroom teachers, education support professionals Member delegates to the 2018 TEA RA, May 18-19 or persons who serve in other non-supervisory in Murfreesboro, will elect a new TEA president, positions. vice president and a number of board members. In Category 2, NEA members may vote for any three Delegates will also debate and vote on legislative of the candidates. This category includes members priorities, association policies and TEA operating who are supervisors, administrators or retired NEA budget. life members. The NEA RA convenes every July for delegates to Any NEA-retired life, education support or active member debate issues that impact American public education, not affiliated with a local association who wishes to vote elect NEA officers, and set policy for the 3.2 million- in the election may receive a ballot by writing or calling member association. This is where Tennessee TEA, 801 Second Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37201-1099, educators can voice their opinions on where our (615) 242-8392 or (800) 342-8367. national affiliate should focus its time and resources. Run as a delegate to the TEA RA Members vote on who represents them at each rep assembly. The first opportunity to vote is for TEA members who wish to represent their local delegates to the NEA RA. Biographical information association at the TEA RA in May still have time to and photographs submitted by candidates for state be nominated. Please contact your local president delegate positions to the NEA RA in Minneapolis, or TEA UniServ coordinator for more information on Minn., June 30 - July 5, 2018, are published in this how to become a delegate.

CATEGORY I delegate for TEA/RA, delegate for NEA/RA (since TEA: NEA Concerns, Former: Board of Director 2017 Representative Assembly 2011), State delegate for NEA MLT/WLT (October District 4 and East TN Black Classroom Teacher, in Washington, D.C. in 2016. District 1 2014 & January 2017), ESSA Cadre, and attended Administrative Task Force, ION, IPD, Legislative A faculty member at Tennessee Karen Anderson – Elementary civications, organizing summit, and leadership Editing, Minority Affairs and Resolutions; Knox Technological University, teacher Lake Ridge School, academy. County Coaches’ Network; I also serve as treasurer she is also a member of the of several organizations that include: my church, NEA Council for Higher Johnson City. NEA: Board of Christus Leeper – 2nd Clinton Chapel AME Zion Church and Top Ladies Education (NCHE). A Directors, Uniserv Comm., grade teacher at North Side of Distinction-Knoxville. passionate advocate for public Ethnic and Special Interest Elementary in Johnson City. education, she serves as President of the local Caucuses; TEA: Board of Teaching in Johnson City Anthony Hancock – TEA at Tennessee Technological University and is Directors, Executive Comm., Schools for sixteen years. Special Education Teacher, President of the Tennessee American Association Co-chair ION Comm.; Johnson Bachelor of Science Degree Comprehensive Development of University Professors, as well. City EA’s PACE Comm., advisor to local leaders; in Public Health from East Classroom, Bearden Middle Previously: NEA Women’s Issues Comm., several Tennessee State University and Master’s Degree in School; KCEA: Executive District 7 TEA committees; taught early childhood education Early Childhood Education from Milligan College Board, Middle School Seat and courses at ETSU, MTSU; directed early childhood in Johnson City. Currently serving as an AR in the Parliamentarian, Legislative Jim Gifford* programs; served on several early childhood Johnson City Education Association. Previously Contact Team, Membership boards, committees. “I am dedicated to serving the served on the Melvin Stevens Scholarship Fund Committee, Minority Affairs District 8 educators of Tennessee and honored to represent Committee in the community. “This is a great Leadership committee, Association Representative; Brenda Munusamy – special TN at the NEA RA.” opportunity and an honor to represent TN.” TEA: Board of Directors, Co-Chair 2014 and 2015 education teacher for children TEA Minority Affairs Committee, Resolutions, Joe Crabtree – 6th grade Rebecca Thornburg* ages 3-5. Teaches at Stone math teacher, Indian Trail Southeast Regional Minority Leadership Training Bridge Academic Learning Intermediate School, District 2 Committee, Minority Affairs Leadership Center, Fayetteville, TN Committee, New Teachers Training Committee, / Lincoln County school Johnson City. TEA: Fund Michelle Bowman – Currently serving as District State Delegate – RA Assembly; NEA: PAC Captain, district. 24 years classroom for Children Executive 2 Board member and Executive Committee NEA Fund for Children and Public Education, experience. Bachelor of Committee, NEA Concerns member, 30 Year member of TEA and NEA, Resolutions Committee; “Vote for Anthony Science, Elementary Education Middle Tennessee, Committee; Formerly: TEA Librarian at Northview Primary, Member of Hancock to serve you with Dignity and Worth” Masters of Arts Counseling and Human Services, Board of Directors, Executive American Library Association, Currently serving University of Colorado and Education Specialist - Committee, Internal Organizational Needs as Sevier County EA Secretary and Legislative Paula Hancock – 6th, 7th, Administration and Supervision Middle Tennessee. (ION) Committee, Instruction and Professional Chair, Original member of TEA Legislative 8th Grade Math Intervention TEA active member for 17 years, membership Development Commission; JCEA: President Contact Team, Corresponding Secretary for the Teacher, Karns Middle chairperson LCEA, Current Middle Tennessee (9 years), member Collaborative Conferencing NEA Republican Educators’ Caucus, Presented School; TEA: (2 terms)- Black Classroom Teacher TEA Board of Directors. team; 10 years as local and state delegate TEA and at 2017 NEA Leadership Summit, Participated TUEAC Secretary, Board of NEA Representative Assemblies. “I feel extremely in development of Republican Capacity Building Directors, East Tennessee Fred Riley - TEA Board of honored to serve as a voice for the teachers of Training modules Black Classroom Teacher; Directors District 8; WCEA Johnson City and Tennessee at the state and Legislative Editing Committee; (Williamson County): Smith Jean-Philippe – Smith national levels!” Communications Committee; Minority Affairs Representative Jean-Philippe is a 15th year Resolutions Committee; Representative Assembly; Executive Board 2015-2017, Regina France – Washington educator, 14th of which is PAC Captain, NEA Fund for Children and Public 2017-2019; TEA: NEA-RA County Education Association with the Maryville City School Education; NEA: Minority Leadership Training, Delegate 2016, 2015; NEA VP 2016 – present, President System, Maryville, TN. Born Representative Assembly; KCEA: Secretary, Raise Your Hand RA Delegate January 3, 2018, AR 2015 to in Haiti, raised in Miami, present, TEA-RA Delegate 2 Executive Board, Middle School Representative, 2014; TEA TLO for WCEA 2014-Present Fl., Mr. Jean-Philippe is a Minority-at-Large, Collaborative Conference Years, MAC Member 2 years, Maryville College, University Rochelle Wright – Mrs. Teacher 24 years Team, Membership Committee, Association of Tennessee, and Lincoln Representative, Minority Affairs Committee. Wright has been a public Memorial University graduate. He is currentlyB renda“In M timesun ulikesa thesemy ,you sp needec ia voice,l ed uvoteca Paulation teacher for childreschooln a geducatores 3- 5for. twentyTeac hes at Stone Bridge LaDawn Hudgins – TEA completion his Ph.D. in Educational Leadership Hancock to be your voice” years. She currently teaches District 1 Board Member: and Policy Studies at the University of Tennessee in 4th grade at Poplar Grove July 2017 – Current; WCEA Knoxville, TN. Mr. Jean-Philippe is married toA Dr.ca deGingermic L Henderson*earning Center, Fayetteville, TN / Lincoln CoElementaryunty sc inh oFranklin,ol dis tTN,ric t. 24 years President: 2012 - current, Sharon Jean-Philippe and are proud parents of two Connie Mitchell* where she also taught 3rd WCEA Vice-President: 2010- sons Sidney and Seth Jean-Philippe. grade for 17 years. Mrs. Wright 2012, AR: 10+ yrs.,; TEA-RA classroAngelaom ePatrick*xperi ence. Bachelor of Science, Elementaryserves Ed uasc theat iPresidenton Mid ofd herle Tennessee, Masters District 3 Delegate: 12+ yrs., TEA District 5 local Education Association, State Delegate @ NEA-RA: Robert Holder* of Arts Counseling and Human Services, UFSSDEA.niver sMrs.ity Wright'sof Co lteachingorado philosophy and Ed isu cation Specialist - 5yrs., TEA State Delegate @ Diamond Kelley* that you should set high expectations for students Bryan Massengale – Band NEA MLT/WLT 2013-2014 & 2016-2017, ION and they will reach them, as no one reaches low director Rhea County 1984, Jeanette Omarkhail* Co-Chair: Oct. 2017, IPD Committee Member: expectations. BS/MS - UT Knoxville, EdSA dministration and Supervision Middle Tennessee. TEA active member for 17 years, 2014-2015, Membership Committee: 2016, School District 6 - TN Tech. Rhea-Dayton EA Calendar Committee: 8 yrs., MAC Committee District 9 offices: president, newsletter Beth Brown – English Member: 3 yrs., School SLP: 30yrs., MTH: 2009., membership chairperson LCEA, Current MLauraidd lBenton*e Tennessee Black Classroom Teacher TEA editor, negotiating team, teacher, 17 years, Grundy Member Black Caucus, Member of WCEA PECCA collaborative conferencing, County High School; GCEA: Stephen Henry* team 2012 - current. AR. NEA: NEA Today advisory Association Representative, Board of Directors. Erick Huth* Vicky Jones* - WCEA: President (2 terms), board, NEA RA delegate many President-Elect, President, Secretary (10+ years), Association Rep (38 years), years. “I want to see the association strive to do Chief Negotiator, Grievance Kenneth Martin* Chairperson, Membership W-PACE Treasurer (10 years), Negotiations team the best it can to improve, support and defend Jeannine Renfro* (20+ years), Collaborative Conferencing team (3 public schools. ‘It takes a village,’ and I want our Chairperson, Collaborative years), Committees: Grievance, Constitution & association’s input to be an important part of that Conferencing Chairperson; TEA: TEA Board Jerri Simon* By-laws, P R & R, Budget; TEA: RA (20+ years), village.” (2009-2012, 2014-Present), TEA Vice President, Theresa Wagner* Summer Leadership (10+ years), Bargaining Board Liaison to IPD Commission, Executive Training (10+ years); NEA RA (15+ years) District 4 Committee, Budget Committee, Organizing District 10 Advocacy Committee, Dues Task Force, Rhonda Lankford – Teacher with Derisika (Dee) Beaty - Jane Ligon* Credentials Committee, Internal Organizational a Master of Secondary Education Tanya Coats – KCEA Needs Committee, Legislative Editing Committee, Benita Townsend* at Chuckey Doak High School, President, Instructional Mission, Vision, and Core Values Committee, currently serving as treasurer Randall Woodard – Special Ed. Interventionist Coach, 20 years; Knox County NEA Concerns Committee, ESSA Implementation and membership chair of Greene - Robertson County Alternative School; & Maryville City Schools; Team, NEA 360 Implementation Team, FCPE County Education Association, KCEA: Executive Board, Council; NEA: RA Delegate, 2009-2017 served as RA, negotiations team, Collaborative Conferencing NEA RA bios Special School Committee, Team, Former: Minority Josephine McQuail – TEA Board since 2015, cont. page 7 Womens Issues, IPD Committee (2016-2017), Affairs Chair, Elections Chair; representing Higher Education and attended the TEA Public School TEA Advocate Teach 3 fy and... e Ruf lik Be

Read Across Tennessee March 2, 2018 Read Across Tennessee, a celebration of TEA in conjunction reading! with NEA’s Read Across America. “Ruffy the Reading Dog.” Copyright, Tennessee Education Association. FOR MORE CLASSROOM MATERIALS GO TO TEATEACHERS.ORG

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BLACK CLASSROOM TEACHER EAST Diamond Kelley Teach (USPS 742-450, ISSN 15382907) is published MANAGING EDITOR: Amanda Chaney DISTRICT 2 Michele Bowman (865) 679-6523 Steve McCloud; Jim Wrye; TECHNOLOGY & in August, October, Jan/Feb, and March/April by the [email protected] DISTRICT 3 Robert Holder (865) 617-1179 (423) 510-1400 BUILDING OPERATIONS MANAGER: Galen Riggs; Tennessee Education Association, 801 Second Avenue ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Jim Wrye DISTRICT 4 Connie Mitchell (865) 609-1702 BLACK CLASSROOM TEACHER MIDDLE COMPTROLLER: David Shipley; UNISERV FIELD North, Nashville TN 37201-1099. Periodicals postage paid EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & PUBLISHER: DISTRICT 5 Jeanette Omarkhail (423) 413-9114 Brenda Munusamy (931) 433-0918 MANAGERS: Karla Carpenter; Leigh Phillips; STAFF at Nashville, TN, and additional offices. POSTMASTER: Carolyn Crowder DISTRICT 6 Jennifer Eilender (931) 704-2487 BLACK CLASSROOM TEACHER WEST Tiffany Reed ATTORNEYS: John Allen, Virginia A. McCoy; Send address changes to TENNESSEE EDUCATIONStop paying out-of-pocketDISTRICT 7 Jim Gifford (615) 430-6233 for school (901) 412-2759 supplies , 801 Second Avenue North, Tennessee Education GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COORDINATOR: Drew ASSOCIATION Teach DISTRICT 8 Fred Riley (615) 876-0009 STATE SPECIAL SCHOOLS Ginger Henderson Nashville, TN 37201-1099. Periodical postage paid at Sutton; COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR: Amanda Association DISTRICT 9 Stephen Henry (615) 519-5691 (865) 548-4615 Nashville, TN, and additional offices. The subscription 801 Second Avenue North Chaney; COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR: price of $3.06 is allocated from annual membership dues DISTRICT 10 Randall Woodard (615) 594-5632 NEW TEACHER Hope Shields (901) 239-1232 Nashville, TNand 37201-1099 instructional materials. Alexei Smirnov; INSTRUCTIONAL ADVOCACY & of $258.00 for active members; $129.00 for associate, DISTRICT 11 Brandi Adams (731) 439-3476 ESP Sandra McDurmon (901)237-2866 Telephone: (615) 242-8392, PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COORDINATORS: education support and staff members; $16.00 for retired DISTRICT 12 Janis Carroll (731) 431-2387 TN NEA DIRECTOR Tanya Coats (865) 308-2787 Rhonda Thompson; ADVOCACY HOTLINE members; and $10.00 for student members. Member of Toll Free: (800) 342-8367, (800) 342-8262 DISTRICT 13 Renee Baum (901) 604-2035 TN NEA DIRECTOR Karen Anderson (423) 741-9682 COORDINATORS: Forestine Cole, Gera Summerford & State Education Association of Communicators (SEAC). Fax: (615) 259-4581 DISTRICT 14 Kenyon Cook (901) 605-7080 STEA MEMBER Celeste Randall (615) 335-0217 Cynthia Wood. Website: www.teateachers.org DISTRICT 15 Neshellda Johnson (901) 857-6042 TN RETIRED Linda McCrary (615) 888-7026 Postmaster: Send address changes to ADMINISTRATOR EAST Carrie Clabo (865) 603-3791 * Executive Committee UniServ Staff contact information TENNESSEE EDUCATION ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS ADMINISTRATOR MIDDLE Margaret Thompson AT LARGE RETIRED DIRECTOR ON NEA BOARD can be found on page 6. ENTERTeach, TODAY:PRESIDENT: Barbara Gray* (800) 342-8367 (615) 649-1514 JoAnn Smith-Mashburn (423) 914-2818 801 Second Avenue North, VICE PRESIDENT: Beth Brown* (931) 779-8016 ADMINISTRATOR WEST Dennis Kimbrough Nashville, TN 37201-1099. SECRETARY-TREASURER: Carolyn Crowder (901) 494-0105 TEA HEADQUARTERS STAFF EducatorsAcademicAward.com (615) 242-8392 HIGHER EDUCATION Josephine McQuail EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Carolyn Crowder; ASST. DISTRICT 1 LaDawn Hudgins* (423) 384-3585 (931) 520-0449 EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS: Terrance Gibson; NEA, NEA Member Benefits and the NEA Member Benefits logo are registered service marks of NEA’s Member Benefits Corporation. CA Lic #0041343 ©2017 CCMC AH470118

State Community College. District 4 — Jason City, Loudon Co., Meigs Co., Morgan Co., Oneida, (615)476-3161 (Dalton), fax: (855)299-4968 fax: (844)270-8083; Assns: Bradford, Crockett Contact TEA White, KCEA, 2411 Magnolia Avenue, Knoxville, Overton Co., Rhea-Dayton Co., Roane Co., (Campbell), (855)299-5837 (Dalton); Assns: Dept. Co., Dyer Co., Dyersburg, Dyersburg State Tennessee Education Association TN 37917; (865)522-9793, fax: (865)522-9866; Scott Co., York Institute. District 9 — Jackie of Higher Ed., Metropolitan Nashville, TN School Community College, Gibson Co., Hardeman Co., 801 Second Avenue N., Nashville, TN 37201-1099 Assns: Knox, Pellisippi State Comm. College, UT- Pope, 2326 Valley Grove Dr., Murfreesboro, TN For The Blind, MTSU, Murfreesboro City, NSCC, Haywood Co., Humboldt, Lake Co., Lauderdale (615) 242-8392, (800) 342-8367 Knoxville, TSD. District 5— Tom Hopkins, P.O. 37128;phone: (615)898-1060, fax: (855) 301-8214, Rutherford, TSU. District 14 — Maria Uffelman, Co., Milan, Obion Co., Tipton Co., Trenton, FAX (615) 259-4581 Box 5502, Oak Ridge, TN 37831; (423)416-7330, Assns: Bedford Co., Bledsoe Co., Coffee Co., P.O. Box 99, Cumberland City, TN 37050; phone: Union City. District 18/19 — Keyth Harrison, fax: (855)301-8366; Assns: Alcoa, Anderson Co., Franklin Co., Grundy Co., Manchester, Marion Co., (931)827-3333, fax: (855)299-4925; Assns: Austin Memphis, TN; (901)305-2467, fax: (855)320- UniServ Coordinators Blount Co., Clinton, Etowah, Maryville, McMinn Moore Co., Motlow State Community College, Peay State University, Clarksville-Montgomery 8737;—Assns: Bartlett, Collierville, Fayette Co., District 1 — Harry Farthing, P.O. Box 298, Co. (except Athens City - see District 7), Monroe Sequatchie Co., Tullahoma. District 10 — Jeff Co., Henry Co., Houston Co., Paris, Stewart Co., Germantown-Arlington-Lakeland, Millington, Elizabethton, TN 37644; phone: (423)262-8035, Co., Oak Ridge, Polk Co., Sweetwater. District Garrett, P.O. Box 1326, Lebanon, TN 37088-1326; Weakley Co., UT-Martin. District 15 — Tim Southwest State Community College, University fax: (866)379-0949; Assns: Bristol, Carter Co., 6 — Shannon Bain, P.O. Box 3452, Lebanon, TN (615)630-2605, fax (855)320-8755; Assns: Clay Co., Greene, P.O. Box 354, Goodlettsville, TN 37070; of Memphis. District 18/19 — Karla Carpenter, Elizabethton, Johnson Co., Hancock Co., Hawkins 37088, phone: (615)547-7769, fax: (844)274-0765; Jackson Co., Macon Co., Pickett Co., Robertson phone: (615)864-1984, fax: (888)519-4879; UniServ Field Manager; UniServ Directors: Co., Kingsport, Northeast State Community Assns: Cannon Co., Cumberland Co., Cumberland Co., Smith Co., Sumner Co., Trousdale Co. District Assns: Benton Co., Central, Cheatham Co., Reginald Fentress, Tom Marchand, 6520 Stage College, Rogersville, Sullivan Co. District 2 — University, DeKalb Co., Lebanon, Putnam Co., 11/13 — Antoinette Lee, P.O. Box 1412, Antioch, Clarksburg, Decatur Co., Dickson Co., Hickman Road, Bartlett, TN 38134; phone/fax (901)379- Jennifer Gaby, P.O. Box 70, Afton, TN 37616; Van Buren Co., Warren Co., Wilson Co., White TN 37013; (615)308-5293, fax: (888)519-7331; Co., Humphreys Co., Huntingdon, Lewis Co., 6939; United Education Association of Shelby (423)234-0700, fax: (855)299-0723; Assns: Cocke Co., TTU. District 7 — Theresa Turner, HCEA Assns: FSSD, Williamson, TN Dept. of Ed. District McKenzie, Perry Co., West Carroll. District 16 County, www.unitedshelby.org. Co., Greene Co., East Tennessee State University, 4655 Shallowford Road, Chattanooga, TN 12 — Sue Ogg; P.O. Box 210486, Nashville, TN — Lorrie Butler, P.O. Box 387, Henderson, TN Greeneville, Hamblen Co., Johnson City, 37411; (423)485-9535, fax: (423)485-9512; Assns: 37211-0486; (615)856-0503, fax: (855)427-6660 38340; (731)989-4860, fax: (855)299-4591; Assns: Newport, Unicoi Co., Washington Co. District Athens City, Bradley Co., Chattanooga State — Assns: Fayetteville City, Giles Co., Lawrence Chester Co., Jackson-Madison Co., Jackson State www.teateachers.org 3 — Tina Parlier, P.O. Box 70288, Knoxville, TN Community College, Cleveland, Hamilton Co., Co., Lincoln Co., Marshall Co., Maury Co., Wayne Community College, Hardin Co., Henderson 37938-0288, (865)688-1175, fax: (866)518-3104; www.nea.org UT-Chattanooga. District 8 — Josh Trent, P.O. Co. District 11/13 — Mary Campbell, Susan Co., Lexington, McNairy Co., West Tennessee Assns: Campbell Co., Claiborne Co., Grainger Box 451, Livingston, TN 38570, (931)279-9530, Dalton, Metro Nashville, 531 Fairground Court, School for the Deaf. District 17 — Terri Jones, Co., Jefferson Co., Sevier Co., Union Co., Walters fax: (855)299-5674; Assns: Fentress Co., Lenior Nashville, TN 37211; (615)347-6578 (Campbell), P.O. Box 2140, Cordova, TN 38088; (901)258-3902, Evaluation, from page 1 TEA Instructional Advocacy staff have a “Successful evaluation models promote a deep understanding of the state evaluation TEAM evaluation reflective process, shared involvement, and model, and have developed an extensive list educator ownership,” President Gray said. of guidelines and tips to help TEA members tips and guidelines “Decide to make the process work for you.” make the most of the current system. General Suggestions Pre-Conference Observation • Become familiar with the rubric(s) and • Bring your lesson plan and be prepared • Vary instructional strategies, assessment form(s) used in your district’s evaluation to discuss its relevance to state standards, tools, grouping and questioning practices, model. including specific grade level expectations while maintaining consistency with (GLEs) and course level expectations (CLEs). • Review other resources that might provide strategies that have been successful in the information or assistance (i.e., NIET • Discuss and illustrate what you have done past. portal, State Department TEAM-TN site, to improve your performance since the last • Post lesson objectives and state standards, TNCompass, IPI Portal, EEPASS Portal, observation. and ensure your lesson plans are available etc.) • Review the professionalism rubric and bring for the observer. • Know when announced observations it with you to all meetings concerning your • Be aware of diversity in your classroom and will occur. Use the TEA Tracking Forms evaluation. utilize practices that respect and recognize to track all of your observations, related • Inform your observer of any special culturally responsive teaching. conferences, and professional activities. circumstances which might occur during • Display examples of student work. your scheduled observation.

After Observation Post-Conference Document!!! • As per State Board of Education policy, expect • If you are asked to self-score, discuss evidence • Create a file to keep all records, notes and written feedback within one week of each supporting the scores you assign. forms pertaining to your instructional observation. Review this policy at www.state. • Ask the observer/evaluator for specific practice. tn.us/sbe/Policies.htm. strategies to improve areas of refinement and • This file could include: Phone logs, • Email your observer within 24 hours of the document the strategies provided. correspondence with parents, paperwork observation requesting the date of the post- • Do NOT risk insubordination by refusing completed by you or your evaluator, conference and whether you should submit to sign the observation rating documents. participation in professional development any artifacts prior to that date. Signing the document does not indicate events, notes about students, documentation • Recognize that self-scoring is optional. agreement, only that it has been shared with from meetings with families, data used to improve your teaching, samples of student • Complete the portion of the TEA Evaluation you. You may also request more time to process the information prior to signing the work, documentation of students assigned Tracking Form for each observation and add to your class (i.e., district requests, parent documentation to support work done for the document. If you are given more time, be sure to get that in writing. requests, inclusion, etc.), and more (see full Professionalism Rubric. list online). Visit www.TEAteachers.org/Evaluation for the full list prepared by TEA Instructional Advocacy.

NEA RA bios Sandra McDurmon – Proud committee, Vice-chair PAC; TEA: Organizing Delegate (8 Yrs.), TEA member from page 3 ESP for 21 years. Currently a Advocacy Committee, Instructional Professional (13 Yrs.), Committees and/or Special Education Secretary Development Commission, Representative positions: Constitution & By- 14yrs- Robertson County Schools; RCEA: 2nd at Rivercrest Elementary Assembly delegate; NEA: Education Summer, laws, Human Relations (local Vice President – membership chair, Executive in Bartlett, TN. Currently Minority & Women Leadership Training, & state), Local Photographer, committee, Political Action Chair, Minority Affairs, serving at the local level as National Leadership Summit, Education Support Minority Affairs (local & state; RCEA – IPD chair, RCEA calendar committee, ESP @ Large and Membership Professional Conference, Leaders For Tomorrow chaired), Membership, New membership committee, RCEA LCT; TEA: TEA Chair and a member of the Teacher, Professional Rights Deborah Atkins – Bachelor Board member 2016-presently, IPD chair, IPD TEA Board of Directors. For the past 5 years has & Responsibilities (chaired), Status of Women, of Science in Education from committee, Board Liaison for IPD committee, served as a local and state delegate to the TEA Conferences: Civication, MAC (state & regional), College in Clinton, Membership Committee, Legislative Contact Team Representative Assembly. Also served as a state NCUEA, Organizing Summit, Spring Symposium, MS in 1997. In 2003 I received (LCT) and Minority Affairs; NEA: Black Caucus, delegate to the NEA Representative Assembly 2017. TUEAC my Masters of Education from ESP Caucus, Ed Summit Participant (Charleston, “I am honored to represent the ESP’s of Tennessee.” SC) and NEA –RA delegate -2015-2017 Union University Germantown. Andrea Thompson* Tammi McCoy* In 2009, I received my LaTia Watson – Educator District 11 Education Specialist degree in LoMay Richmond – 12+ years, TEA: Member Curriculum and Supervision. I began my teaching Brandi Adams* Arlington Community Schools since 2005, FCPE Council career in August 1997 at Crystal Springs Lower special education teacher, member- District 14, NEA Melanie Buchanan – 7th Middle School in Crystal Springs, MS. In 2000, 20+ years as an educator Members Concern Committee, grade math teacher Harpeth I moved to Memphis, Tennessee and began my in Tennessee; GALEA: Organizing Advocacy Middle School, Kingston tenure with . I currently Vice President, Association Committee, UEA: PECCA Springs, Cheatham Co.; Vice teach sixth-grade mathematics at Snowden School. President of the Cheatham Representative, committee Chairperson, Communications County Education Association. chair; TEA – Committee Kenyon Cook* Co-Chair, PAC committee, Building Association chair and member of various Representative, NEA: Education Summer Over the years, Melanie Neshellda Johnson – BS/ committees, Civication, Organizing Summit, Participant 2016, Minority/Women’s Leadership has been an advocate for MAT, 14 yr educator, Shelby Summer Leadership Academy, Political Academy, Training 2015, Leadership Summit 2017 public schools through her service in her local County. TEA Board member “I can do it” Cadre, New Teacher Panel participant, association as president, vice president, treasurer, 2016-present, UEA board Clemmie West* Spring Symposium, Minority Affairs Conference membership chair, and newsletter editor. Served member inception-present, and Representative Assemblies; NEA: Leadership Diane Withers* on the TEA Board of Directors for District 15 and former UEA communications Summit, Southeast Minority Leadership Training, TEA Executive Committee. Elected to the NEA chair, TEA-RA del. 2 yrs, Representative Assemblies; She is a dedicated CATEGORY 2 Board of Directors. Serves on the NEA Resolutions NEA RA del. 2 yrs, TEA advocate for public educators. Committee and chairs the TEA Resolutions membership committee, Board Carrie Clabo* Committee. Hope Shields – Kindergarten liaison to collaborative conferencing committee, Lynn Fitzpatrick* teacher at Rivercrest constitution/bylaws committee. Attended NEA District 12 Elementary in Bartlett, TN. leadership summit, NEA pre uniserv fellow, NEA Barbara Gray – TEA president, ESSA Implementation Team, Raeleen Burke* Currently serving on the organizing institute. My goal is serve the members state level on the TEA Board of this esteemed association with professionalism, NEA Minority Planning of Directors (New Teacher a growth mindset, and collaborative spirit. Vote Committee, TEA budget Member), chair of the New Neshellda Johnson, Public Education Advocate. committee, member of Teacher Committee. Former Germantown Arlington Danette Kimball* Bartlett Education Association area representative Lakeland EA, assistant and board member. Currently pursing Ed.D. at Tiffany Reed* principal on leave from Freed-Hardeman University. Serves as grade chair, Arlington Middle School; Tikeila Rucker – Shelby past president, vice-president, administrator tutors before school, and works on the yearbook County/Memphis, TN, Janis Carroll* and STEAM committees. “It is a privilege and – Shelby County EA; served on state and local Educator, President of United Board of Directors; chaired various state and local honor to represent and serve the educators of Education Association of District 13 Tennessee.” committees; involved in numerous state and local Shelby County (UEA); TEA: association activities. Proud to have served as your Renee Baum – Middle school iTEAM Advisory Board, delegate in the past and would love to represent teacher at Bon Lin Middle in District 14/15 Minority Affairs, New you at 2018 NEA RA. Bartlett, TN. Currently serving Loranzo Andrews – Teacher, and Communication at state level on the TEA Board Experienced ESP with a Committee; NEA 2015 Sherry Hensley* of Directors (District 13), proven record of patience Affirmative Action Intern Graduate; Memphis- Dennis Kimbrough* co-chair of TEA Membership and dedication. Motivated Shelby Education Association Elementary Board Committee. Middle School individual with demonstrated Member, New Teacher Committee, and PACE Melinda Pruitt* Director-Bartlett Education proficiency in listening Council. Relentless! Persistent! Determined! Ready Margaret Thompson* Association 2014-present. Currently pursing to student’s needs and to serve and represent TEA District 19 at the 2018 Sydney Upton* Ed.D at State University. Serves as Beta formulating a tactical NEA RA. sponsor, tutors after school, and works on the action plan to achieve results. Proven ability to * — no photo and/or bio at press time. district calendar and sick bank committees. “It is encourage children to achieve their potential. LaFonde Tate-Wooden – General Elementary (8 my honor to serve the educators and students of UEA: Association Representative, PECCA Yrs.), ESL teacher (4 Yrs.), 1st Year SCS ESL Peer Tennessee.” Coach, TEA/RA Delegate (10 Yrs.), NEA/RA TEA Teach 7

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Licensure and discipline counsel, pointing out TEA’s concerns with the from page 1 proposed changes. Staying out and ensuring educators who violate state law are “We have been trying to point out to the board removed from the profession is straight-forward. that what they are proposing has serious flaws and of trouble TEA will be watching closely as the General that under Tennessee law the board currently does Assembly decides what changes need to be made to not have the power to enact and enforce these It is important to avoid state law in regards to teacher discipline. rules,” said Steve McCloud, TEA assistant executive even the appearance of “Teachers are placed in a position of public trust, director for legal services. and any sexual contact between a teacher and TEA continues to insist that while the board misconduct. Here are some tips to keep student is a profound violation of that trust, and does have a right to revoke a teaching license of a you out of rough waters. condemned by all Tennessee educators,” Crowder teacher who has been convicted of certain crimes, said. “Tennessee law is clear: sexual contact and to enact rules to suspend, deny or revoke a with students is impermissible, and violations license of a teacher in default of a student loan, Social media - Keep two things proven through due process should result in in mind while on social media. that is the limit of their authority with regard to expulsion from the profession along with criminal licensure discipline. First, do not connect with your prosecution.” students or their parents. Second, “Now that the legislature is back in session, and It is imperative that the General Assembly this comptroller report has been issued, TEA will if you wouldn’t want it on a maintains the due process rights of educators and be working closely with the General Assembly to poster at school, don’t say it on the authority of local boards of education as it ensure any changes to state law protect students social media. makes changes to state law to avoid unintended while also preserving teacher due process rights,” consequences. Crowder said. In October, TEA filed a lawsuit against the State TEA has talked to members of the Government Digital communication - Do not Board of Education on behalf of a member as text or email one-on-one with Operations committee about these proposed rules, the association continues to object to the board’s and counts most members on this committee your students. proposed massive overreach in teacher licensure as supportive of the teaching profession. Senate rules, expanding the board’s power to overrule committee chair Mike Bell (R-Riceville) was local boards and suspend or dismiss teachers. The the successful sponsor of 2013 TEA legislation Classroom etiquette - Keep your board proposed the new rules under the guise of classroom door open when one- overturning the board’s decision to revoke teacher protecting students against teacher misconduct. licenses based on TVAAS scores. That legislation on-one with a student. The lawsuit asserts the state board has no statutory passed overwhelmingly, and was a clear rebuke of authority to create a rule to revoke or suspend a the board by the General Assembly. Physical contact - Younger teacher’s license for misconduct. “The General Assembly takes its role seriously as children love to hug, and that The proposed new rules would grant broad new the lawmaking body of our state. It grants powers is ok if the child initiates it. powers to the board for disciplining teachers and to state agencies by passing laws, and when a Otherwise, it is best to avoid suspending licenses, often using vague definitions bureaucracy tries to overstep the law I expect and relying on terms that vary between school lawmakers to step in, and that’s the feedback we’ve physical contact with students. systems. TEA saw the proposed rules as an attack gotten from committee members,” said Jim Wrye, on local control and acted quickly to halt the TEA’s chief lobbyist. “After this latest rule issue, it board’s actions that aren’t supported by law. is time we rethink the professional regulation of If in doubt, just DON’T. Throughout the year, TEA has been in teaching in the interest of what is best for students communication with the state board’s general and teachers.”

TEA online professional development platform coming March 2018 education portal will offer courses on Online professional development classroom management, collaborating from page 1 with families, Tennessee teacher code “Our secure portal will significantly of ethics, and the evaluation process, expand TEA’s award-winning among others. professional development program,” said TEA Assistant Executive Director “Look for an email from TEA in mid- Terrance Gibson. “Aside from the March introducing our new online benefit of offering convenient access to learning portal with instructions on the professional development credits how to get started,” Gibson said. “We necessary to maintain your license, all look forward to your feedback and TEA members will be able to access suggestions on new course material as professional development at their own we plan to expand our course offerings pace and convenience.” to ensure TEA is providing members On an iPad, home computer, or other devices, TEA members will be able to with the content that is relevant to you access high-quality, useful professional development anytime, anywhere. Free to all TEA members, the new and your classroom.” Maintaining your teaching licenses will be just a couple of clicks away. Mark your calendar and register online for TEA’s Spring conferences. Don’t miss out! Johnella Martin / TEA Statewide 22nd Annual Teaching Save the Date! Minority Affairs Conference & Learning Symposium TEA ESP Conference

April 13 – 14, 2018 April 21, 2018 The Park Vista Doubletree TEA Headquarters Ethnicity, Race, Culture: Gatlinburg Nashville Bridges of the Deep Divide Register now: Registration coming soon: March 23 – 24, 2018 www.TEAteachers.org/Symposium www.TEAteachers.org/esp-conference 8 Register TEA Teach now: www.TEAteachers.org/MAC