EDUCATORS AND STUDENTS TAKE A STAND AGAINST BULLYING
A publication of the Massachusetts Teachers Association Volume 43, No. 3/Winter 2013
MORE DISTRICTS TRY INNOVATION SCHOOLS Looking to Honor One of Our Own Is there an MTA Now is the time For further information, member who: to recognize his or e-mail or write: Encouraged you professionally or personally? her contribution. Jo Ann Fitzgerald, MTA 20 Ashburton Place | Boston, MA 02108 Fostered your involvement in MTA? Nomination forms for the Looking to Honor [email protected] Mentored you as a beginning teacher? One of Our Own Award are available at: Completed nomination forms must be Helped you as a student? http://massteacher.org/retired received by MTA no later than June 1.
On the cover MTA’s Mission Statement in this issue Innovation Schools were established The Massachusetts Teachers Association is as part of the Achievement Gap Act Thousands attend anti-bullying event 3 a member-driven organization, governed of 2010, and there are now 44 in Editorial 4 by democratic principles, that accepts operation across Massachusetts. On MTA seeks fairness for adjunct faculty 5 and supports the interdependence of a recent morning, Amanda Bell, a More districts try Innovation Schools 6 professionalism and unionism. The MTA teacher of third- and fourth-graders ‘This was an opportunity to put innovation on steroids’ 7 promotes the use of its members’ collective at the Winter Hill Innovation School Four candidates running for NEA Director seats 8 power to advance their professional and in Somerville, worked with student School gardens produce healthy results 9 economic interests. The MTA is committed William Baxter Speaker urges EMAC audience to organize 10 to human and civil rights and advocates for as he used a MTA and NAACP announce partnership 11 quality public education in an environment game-based Members urged to support crucial bills 12 in which lifelong learning and innovation computer Governor’s budget seeks increased funding for education 12 flourish. program to New teachers focus on classroom techniques 13 focus on math Locals urged to bargain over RETELL impact 14 facts. Bell says Malone brings wide range of experience to new post 15 MTA President that Winter Teachers offer views on boosting achievement 16 Paul Toner Hill teachers embraced an Nation gears up to celebrate love of reading 17 MTA Vice President Innovation Brockton charter school proposal draws opposition 17 Tim Sullivan School plan because it gave them Regional retirement consultations available 18 Executive Director-Treasurer the flexibility to make changes they Nominations sought for Human and Civil Rights Awards 19 Ann Clarke believe will help their students. Preconvention meetings to be held in April 19 Communications Director/Editor For coverage, see pages 6 and 7. Commission recommends retiree health insurance changes 20 James Sacks Another way that MTA members are ESP Conference to be ‘bigger and even better’ 21 Staff Assistant trying to help their students is by New law requires background checks for educators 22 Janice Morrissey standing up to bullying. A conference Obituaries 23 to further that effort was held in late Exciting new travel packages for members 24 Publisher Ann Clarke November at the Tsongas Center in Propane available at a big MTA discount 24 Lowell. A story about the event is on Classifieds 25 Page 3. Coalition calls for revenue to fund key services 28 Photos by Laura Barrett and Bob Duffy This issue of MTA Today also features Cover design by Alison Donato the winter edition of the MTA Advantage
MTA TODAY, ISSN 08982481, is published quarterly by the Massachusetts Teachers Association. Subscription: $2.80 of MTA Quote-Unquote members’ dues is designated for MTA Today. “The economy is not like the weather; it is not some natural force The Massachusetts Teachers Association Periodicals postage rates paid at Boston, 20 Ashburton Place, Boston, MA 02108 MA, and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: that is beyond our control, something where we have to wait for 800.392.6175 or 617.878.8000 Send address changes to: MTA Today, 20 FAX: 617.742.7046 Ashburton Place, Boston, MA 02108. others to predict or explain to us. What we choose to do, and not www.massteacher.org Copyright ©2013 by the Massachusetts do, shapes our future. Indeed, as one friend of mine likes to say, Teachers Association. All material in this ‘The future belongs to those who prepare for it.’ That is why we periodical may be reproduced by teachers for distribution to students or by affiliate invest in education, in innovation and in infrastructure.” associations for their own publications. Unless expressly stated, acceptance of — Excerpt from Governor Deval Patrick’s advertising does not necessarily imply endorsement of the product by MTA or MTA State of the Commonwealth address Benefits.
2 Winter 2013 Anti-bullying event draws thousands
By Bob Duffy
ore than 5,000 students and educators from across New England gathered M recently to unite against bullying. The Stand Up to Bullying event, which was sponsored in part by the MTA, drew teams from middle schools and high schools to the Tsongas Center in Lowell on Nov. 29. Stand Up, which was first held in 2011, has quickly become one of the largest such efforts in the United States, according to organizers. The program was developed by a coalition of more than 50 community and educational organizations to counter the effects of bullying and create a culture that helps prevent it. “Schools should be safe havens for students — places where they can grow, learn and realize their full potential,” said MTA Vice President Tim Sullivan, who co-chaired the Stand Up 2012 program and addressed the crowd. “This event is a sign of positive activism and a broad willingness to fight back against this problem.” Statistics surrounding the issue are startling. According to the National Education Association, one in three American schoolchildren in grades six through 10 is affected by bullying. All told, 83 percent of girls and 79 percent of boys report experiencing some type of harassment. Students who are targets of repeated bullying More than 5,000 students and experience extreme stress, which can develop into educators packed the Tsongas Center a fear of going to school, using public bathrooms or in Lowell on Nov. 29 for Stand Up taking the bus. These fears can manifest themselves 2012, one of the largest anti-bullying as physical symptoms of illness. They can also lead events in the country. The crowd heard to a diminished ability to learn. from motivational speakers, listened to music and held a town-hall-style tand Up 2012 employed a combination of discussion. Students also broke into town-hall-style discussions among students, groups to voice their own opinions of group meetings, musical entertainment and S bullying and talk about how to create motivational speeches. Students broke into groups to positive change in their schools. MTA discuss their own ideas and opinions about bullying and creating positive change. Vice President Tim Sullivan, left, Three schools received Stand Up awards for served as the co-chair of the event innovative anti-bullying efforts: the Southeast and addressed the audience. Alternative School in Middleborough and Sandwich, the Francis W. Parker Charter Essential School in Photos by Mike Otis and Bob Duffy Devens and the Hudson Memorial School in Hudson, N.H. and over again,” said Dr. Elizabeth Englander, In addition to the conference, the organizers ‘Schools should be safe havens director of the Massachusetts Aggression Reduction produced a half-hour television show, “What Every Center at Bridgewater State University, one of the Parent Needs to Know About Bullying,” which aired for students — places where organizations that founded the Stand Up campaign. Dec. 5 on Channel 38. they can grow, learn and She explained that since fighting on the playground The show featured a panel of the area’s top realize their full potential.’ has become less acceptable, more “socially experts on bullying prevention. powerful” students have turned to “social snubs” to Lorri Curry, a health education specialist in — Tim Sullivan make others “feel very, very bad.” the Haverhill Public Schools, said it is important MTA Vice President Efforts are currently under way to host similar for parents to understand the difference between events in New Hampshire and Illinois. bullying and teasing. Visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=prfD54A79Ow “Almost every time a student is teased it’s being typical put-downs, which are still rude and mean to see “What Every Parent Needs to Know About called bullying because bullying has gotten so much behavior, and bullying.” Bullying.” MTA Vice President Tim Sullivan’s attention,” she said, “so we need to help parents try “Bullying isn’t something mean that just remarks at Stand Up 2012 can be viewed at to understand the difference between teasing and happens once. It’s something that happens over www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0QBKqX1_Yo. Winter 2013 3 Editorial Trying to drink water from a fire hose
he state’s new secretary of education, education. In addition, we are continuing to Matt Malone, recently told local The revenue campaign promote “An Act Relative to Improving Quality T association presidents he knows that in Early Education and Care Through Center- trying to keep up with new education mandates is is our highest priority Based Child Care Providers,” which would give like “trying to drink water from a fire hose.” He the educators of our youngest children more of a pledged to focus on implementing a small number because so many voice in their profession. of high priorities well rather than launching new other priorities hinge n RETELL: The MTA is pressing the ambitious and time-consuming initiatives. state to make sure the Rethinking Equity and That was music to the ears of everyone at on adequate funding, Teaching for English Language Learners the MTA All Presidents’ Meeting. It is something but there are other initiative — which seeks to improve how that we at the MTA would like to do, too, though English language learners are taught — is we are often forced to respond to challenges that important issues we are implemented fairly, with ample notice to come at us whether we like it or not. facing this year. teachers, flexibility in scheduling and a chance We have streamlined our legislative agenda for local associations to bargain over the impact. this year to six priorities. One, in particular, n Retiree health insurance: As described affects all of our members matters — not just to you, but to your students on Page 20 of this issue, the association and deserves additional and to the future of our Commonwealth. is joining with other unions and retiree comment: the revenue If you’re a preK-12 educator, does your organizations to safeguard retiree health campaign. school need Internet wiring that can handle insurance benefits for current retirees, those For the first time in today’s data loads? Time for teachers to nearing retirement and the longest-serving recent memory, a sitting collaborate on curricula and instructional public employees. governor has proposed strategies? More paraprofessionals to assist n Special election: The MTA will be tax increases in order to students with special needs? A longer day or more informing members about the track records provide more funding to staff so art classes can be restored? More social and promises of the candidates vying to fill the education, transportation services for students from troubled families? U.S. Senate seat formerly held by Secretary of Paul Toner MTA President and infrastructure And if you’re a higher education member, State John Kerry. Any recommendations will improvements, all of which does your campus need more full-time faculty so go from the MTA’s member-run Candidate are critically important to families, communities that your students receive the academic guidance Recommendation Committee to the NEA. and our economy. they need? More financial aid so that your The NEA has the final word on association Governor Deval Patrick’s bold revenue plan students don’t drop out because they can’t pay the recommendations in national races. — like the Campaign for Our Communities bill, fees? n Achievement gaps: The MTA has recently which the MTA supports — would raise about The revenue campaign is our highest priority formed or strengthened partnerships with the $2 billion a year when fully phased in. Both are because so many other priorities hinge on VIVA project, the NAACP, the Massachusetts progressive, meaning they ask more from the adequate funding, but there are other important Institute for a New Commonwealth, Jobs wealthiest taxpayers by raising the income tax issues we are facing this year. Most are described with Justice and the Union of Minority rate but also increasing the personal exemption. in greater detail in this issue of MTA Today and on Neighborhoods. While each group is different, Predictably, legislators began hearing the MTA website. we all share the common goal of helping low- negative comments from constituents after Patrick n Educator evaluation: We are committed income students and students of color do better rolled out his proposal in January. The complaint to implementing the new evaluation system in school. that Massachusetts is “Taxachusetts” has been so that it is fair, effective and efficient. If you We won’t be able to meet our objectives for made again, even though that label has been haven’t adopted new contract language yet or any of the issues we work on this year without inaccurate for more than three decades. are beginning the next phase of bargaining, you. Thank you for all you do for your students, In fact, Massachusetts ranks in the bottom your MTA field representative will be your most your communities and your association. half of all states when one calculates the valuable resource. percentage of income paid in all state and local n Higher education: In addition to supporting Letters policy taxes combined. the governor’s plan to increase funding for public TA Today welcomes letters to the editor If more funding for education is to stand a colleges and universities by 18 percent, the MTA Mfrom MTA members. Letters should be no chance, legislators need to hear from those of us is promoting one bill to study the higher education longer than 200 words. Each letter submitted for publication must address a topic covered in who can make a compelling case for it. If you financing system and another to increase the use MTA Today, must be signed and must include haven’t done so already, please take a minute right of full-time faculty and provide health insurance the writer’s telephone number for confirmation now to visit www.massteacher.org/actnow and and pension benefits to qualifying adjunct purposes. Opinions must be clearly identified send a message to your legislators via the MTA faculty members. A new MTA report relating the as belonging to the letter-writer. We reserve the right to edit for length, clarity and style. website. Please also start talking up this issue with increased reliance on part-time faculty to lower To submit a letter, mail it to MTA Today, 20 colleagues, friends and relatives. student college completion rates will be released Ashburton Place, 8th floor, Boston, MA 02108 or When communicating about revenue, don’t in the weeks ahead. e-mail it to [email protected]. For additional information, please refer to the forget to focus on how the additional money will n Early education: We support the guidelines posted on www.massteacher.org. help. Let others know why increased funding governor’s call to increase spending in early
4 Winter 2013 MTA seeks fairness for adjunct faculty
By Sarah Nathan Number of courses taught by SAVE THE DATE ADJUNCT VS. FULL-TIME FACULTY Massachusetts Public Higher Education Advocacy he MTA is ramping up efforts to address the at Massachusetts community colleges inequities facing adjunct faculty members Day is slated for Tuesday, March 5, at the State House. MTA members will join forces with fellow at the Commonwealth’s public colleges and T union activists, students and administrators to universities. advocate for increased funding for the state’s Legislation aimed at providing health and Adjunct colleges and universities. More details will be pension benefits for part-time instructors, as well Faculty posted on the MTA’s website, www.massteacher.org. as increasing the percentage of undergraduate courses taught by full-time tenured and tenure-track Goldstein and Higher Education Commissioner faculty members, is one of six MTA-backed bills Richard Freeland. In an effort to illustrate the real- filed in the current session. The bill, sponsored by Full-time life problems that some faculty members are facing, Representative David Sullivan (D-Fall River), is Faculty the MTA and the MCCC collected and shared stories intended to “reverse the course” by restoring balance about personal health care crises from 10 adjunct among faculty members and putting an end to over- faculty members. reliance on part-time instructors, said Massachusetts One part-time instructor who wished to remain Source: Massachusetts Community College Council President Joe LeBlanc. Department of Higher Education anonymous for fear of reprisal spoke about having to The challenges facing part-time faculty members choose between paying his college loans or his health are well documented in Massachusetts and around to students in the same way as full-time faculty insurance because he couldn’t afford both. While he the country. LeBlanc noted that at the state’s 15 members, who serve as advisers. thought he had made a responsible decision, he said, community colleges, where the problem is most acute Higher ed faculty members see this as a he is a relatively young person who is now harnessed in the state’s higher education system, more than two- significant issue because establishing such connections with a $100,000 medical bill for emergency surgery thirds of classes are now taught by part-time faculty. can contribute to long-term success — and at times that might have been prevented had he not been The hiring of adjunct faculty members was may determine whether a student remains in school. uninsured and unable to afford regular visits to originally intended to allow working professionals to At Bridgewater State University, where there doctors. Another faculty member noted that her offer their expertise in the classroom. As enrollment has been a concerted effort to increase the number of income as an adjunct goes almost entirely to pay in public higher education has increased and the full-time faculty members, the number of full-time for her family’s health insurance. “I love teaching, number of full-time teaching positions has remained first-year students who stay in school is growing. but the state is being fundamentally unfair toward stagnant, however, colleges have grown increasingly At a recent Board of Higher Education meeting, Dr. adjuncts,” wrote another instructor. “The state reliant on adjuncts without providing benefits to meet Dana Mohler-Faria, BSU’s president, reported that mandates that every citizen in Massachusetts must their needs. the number of full-time faculty has grown by 27 have health insurance, yet it denies this same Part-time instructors are paid by the course percent since 2000. He said that as faculty-student insurance to thousands of state employees.” and are not eligible for health insurance. Moreover, ratios have improved, so has the retention rate for The MCCC is taking the fight to restore equity they are not enrolled in the state retirement system students of color and low-income students. and improve working conditions for adjuncts to or eligible to collect Social Security based on their Lochelt said he tries to stay in touch with his the bargaining table, where contract negotiations teaching. Despite the fact that many instructors teach students during the week, but is not always readily for part-time faculty in the Division of Continuing five or more courses per semester — the equivalent available because he is forced to divide his time. Education will begin soon. The DCE’s current of a full-time course load — they do not receive the “I do my best. I receive and send a lot of contract expires in June. In addition, the MCCC same pay or benefits as full-time professors. e-mails, but I’m spread out among three campuses,” launched an organizing effort last fall to increase the “Luckily, I love what I do. If I didn’t, this would he said. “If I were a full-time faculty member, I’d number of part-time faculty members who joined the be a really difficult job to manage,” said Patrick have fewer classes and office hours. As adjuncts, we union. The ongoing campaign has quickly proven to Lochelt, an adjunct instructor who patches together just can’t do as much. It’s hard because I don’t think be a success, with a 10 percent increase in members. a modest living each semester a lot of people even know what an adjunct is or the “Unfortunately, the problem of part-time teaching eight English courses at role we play in public higher education.” employment is not limited to our public campuses three colleges. “I come home with In 2009, the MTA, the MCCC and five or academia — there are workers in many other stacks of essays to grade. I just dig instructors, including Lochelt, filed suit against industries who are struggling to hold on to full-time in and do it. It’s just what I know.” the state seeking health insurance coverage for positions and the wages and benefits that come For eight years, Lochelt has adjunct faculty members teaching multiple courses with these jobs,” said James Rice, president of the been dividing his time among on different campuses. In January, a Suffolk National Council of Higher Education, the higher Northern Essex Community Superior Court judge rejected the argument that the education arm of the NEA. “There is certainly an College, Middlesex Community Commonwealth was improperly denying adjuncts incredible effort all over to exploit workers.” College and UMass Lowell. In Patrick Lochelt access to state-administered health insurance. The Rice recently participated in the Delphi Project, addition to actual instruction plaintiffs had argued that adjuncts met the definition a collaboration that is creating resources and time, he spends about 20 hours a of part-time employees as outlined in state law and materials aimed at helping faculty and staff with week reviewing students’ work. Because he teaches should be treated as such. issues related to part-time instructors. writing classes and requires each student to write “The state is just heartless when it comes to five essays, he estimates that he grades about 1,000 this question,” LeBlanc said. “Many of our adjunct Information on the Delphi Project is available at papers per semester. faculty members face incredible hardships. They do www.thechangingfaculty.org. The MTA’s Center for While he knows how much effort he puts into this work because they love it and receive abuse, no Education Policy and Practice is finalizing a research his students and his classes, he has concerns about benefits and small paychecks in return.” paper on the topic of adjunct faculty members titled their future. Because part-time instructors are often The MTA and the MCCC recently brought the “Reverse the Course.” It will be available on the MTA stretched very thin, they aren’t always available issue to the attention of state Labor Secretary Joanne website, www.massteacher.org, in the next few weeks. Winter 2013 5 More districts try Innovation Schools
By Laura Barrett There are now 44 Innovation Schools here is an ongoing debate in public education across the state. about the tension between choice and equity. Teachers say it is Are Innovation Schools one way to strike a important for them T to lead educational balance? MTA members and association leaders in changes because some districts believe they are an exciting option, they know their while others have their doubts. students best. At As a way to foster school-based decision-making, the Winter Hill innovation and choice within public school districts, Innovation School in Governor Deval Patrick included Innovation Schools Somerville, teacher in his Achievement Gap Act of 2010. Some argued Amanda Bell spent that creating such schools would reduce pressure to time one recent lift the cap on Commonwealth Charter Schools. morning working Innovation Schools are similar to Horace Mann with Shellby Duval Charter Schools and to Boston’s Pilot Schools, on a story-writing though there are differences in implementation. project.
Innovation Schools have more flexibility and Photo by Laura Barrett autonomy than most district schools with regard to curriculum, staffing, budget, scheduling, professional are supposed to receive the same per-pupil allotment average per-pupil expenditure. If it is possible, he development and district policies. as other schools, although — like any school — they asked the school committee in testimony, “Why have Staff members at these schools still belong to can apply for grant money. you denied these same supports and services that we their local associations and are often very involved Innovation Schools must develop Measurable have been requesting all these years for all our kids in the design and implementation of changes. Some Annual Goals, and local school committees are and teachers?” plans require negotiating waivers to the union responsible for holding them accountable for In Worcester, there were concerns about contract, while others do not. meeting those goals. The state receives copies of the voting process at Worcester Technical High Two Innovation Schools opened in the 2010- their MAG progress reports and is in the process of School. Despite those concerns, Leonard Zalauskas, 2011 school year and another 16 in 2011-2012. analyzing results from the second full year that the president of the Educational Association of This year there are 44 Innovation Schools across schools were in operation. Worcester, said that Innovation Schools can the Commonwealth, and six more are under There are two different models: conversion be “magic” when they work, giving teachers consideration for 2013-2014. — that is, created by converting an existing school a chance to transform their own schools and “Implementing these schools involves a lot of to a new program — and new. About one-third generating excitement and creativity among the thought and discussion, and it has not always been of the conversions take place in Level 3 schools staff. Worcester has eight Innovation Schools, easy,” said MTA President Paul Toner. “But after — schools performing in the bottom 20 percent including a dual-language program, an accelerated talking to members who work in Innovation Schools statewide — with the hope that the changes will magnet program and two that emphasize science, in several districts, I am convinced that if done in improve performance and reduce the chance of the technology, engineering and mathematics. collaboration with teachers and their unions, this school falling into Level 4 status. Level 4 schools Rodriguez said the schools have adopted a model gives our members more of a voice in school are selected from among low-performing Level 3 variety of innovations. One uses a co-teaching model improvement and is leading to some exciting new schools that show little or no improvement. for special education inclusion, several focus on education models.” For new schools, the local association, the STEM subjects and a school in Salem has created a Bridget Rodriguez, a former teacher and applicant and school committee must negotiate any continuous-progress model in which students move principal in the Cambridge Public Schools, heads the waivers to the contract. Bargaining disputes are up through the system when they have mastered the Innovation Schools program for the state’s Executive resolved through an expedited binding arbitration curriculum, not based on age or traditional grade Office of Education. She described why she is process. The arbitrator must consider the parties’ levels. excited about the concept. positions and the needs of the students in the district. Are they successful? Rodriguez said it is too “As a former teacher, I remember when I used early to say whether Innovation Schools outperform to drive home I would often think, ‘If only we ne concern has been the lack of a clear comparable schools on MCAS tests or other could do things this other way,’” Rodriguez said. definition of the difference between the two measures, but feedback from most teachers and “Now teachers have a place they can go with their O models. New Bedford Education administrators is positive. Few teachers or students ideas. We think these schools can be an excellent Association President Lou St. John objected to a typically transfer out when a school converts to the demonstration of teacher professionalism and plan for two Innovation Schools in his district in new model. teacher-initiated reform. There’s no lack of good part because he believed they were really conversion In Dennis-Yarmouth, three of the district’s ideas. To me, teachers are the people who know the schools that were being called new in order to get seven schools are Innovation Schools, including school population intimately and can custom-tailor around the two-thirds-vote requirement. An MTA the Marguerite E. Small School for fourth- and solutions to the kids in front of them.” attorney wrote an opinion agreeing that the New fifth-graders. There, teachers work on a staggered Innovation School plans may be proposed by Bedford models most closely resemble conversion schedule to extend the school day by 50 minutes to teachers, unions, district administrators, community schools, but state education officials disagreed. The provide students with an enrichment block. Students residents or other interested parties. Applicants may issue has not yet been resolved. can choose from among 21 different semester-long seek a planning grant from the state. The local school St. John also questions whether it is really opportunities, including programs in the arts, fitness, committee must approve the plan before it can move possible for Innovation Schools to offer substantially leadership, reading, math, writing, science and forward, and the district oversees the school as it more services — such as art, music, physical technology. would any other district school. Innovation Schools education and smaller class sizes — for the district’s Continued on next page
6 Winter 2013 ‘This was an opportunity to put innovation on steroids’ By Laura Barrett by the staff, with nearly unanimous approval for the final plan. manda Bell, a teacher at the Winter Hill One change seeks to improve students’ “social Innovation School in Somerville, said competency” through adopting the Responsive A staff members had to decide quickly if Classroom approach, a program that involves they wanted to convert to a new educational model. the whole staff in promoting appropriate social “Prior to Tony coming to us,” she said, interactions. referring to Superintendent Anthony Pierantozzi, Bell allowed a visitor to spend time in her “I don’t think any of us had heard of Innovation classroom of third- and fourth-graders during Schools. It was quite interesting at our first “morning meeting,” a daily feature of the meeting hearing he wanted us to do it and if Responsive Classroom. On that December day, we agreed then we had to make a decision very students took turns being in the center of a circle quickly because there was a grant available. and everyone was told to observe them. The chosen “We all came together and realized we have student then hid and made a change in his or her a great school,” Bell continued. “We know what appearance. One boy put his shoes on the wrong we’re doing. We have fantastic people here and feet. Nine-year-old Shellby Duval removed the hair we know what works. So it was sort of like, ‘Aha, tie that had been around her wrist and was pleased here’s a chance to get to do what we want to do.’” that no one could identify what had changed. Add to the mix that a new principal, Chad Shellby said she loves morning meetings. “We Mazza, had just been hired as implementation was have fun and play little games and tell our friends beginning. what we did over the weekends and things like “I jumped on a moving cart,” said Mazza. that,” she said. “This is a unique staff,” he added. “I could see Photo by Laura Barrett In this particular exercise, the students were right from the start that they work well together. I Somerville Teachers Association President also honing their observation skills and modeling Jackie Lawrence visited the Winter Hill could tell this could work at this school.” taking turns. Morning meeting is also a time the Innovation School, where she spent time in Mary McGivern, an inclusion specialist, said a classroom with Principal Chad Mazza. teacher can observe whether a student seems the school is filled with strong and open-minded troubled and may need some extra attention. educators. “There were a lot of innovative things changes in phases. As part of the planning, it was “It’s important for students to build social happening here already, but some of them were in important for parents to be in the mix. skills so they can interact well with each other their infancy and had not been realized to their full Bell explained, “We had a meeting with and the staff,” Bell said. “Self-regulation is so potential,” she said. parents to ask, ‘If you could have anything at your important.” “This was an opportunity to put innovation on school, what would you want to see?’” The innovation plan also calls for more steroids,” added Jackie Lawrence, president of the The teachers also put up a “parking lot” common planning time — carved out of the Somerville Teachers Association. chart on which staff members could post their existing schedule — and staff-driven professional Teachers interviewed by MTA Today agreed ideas, questions and concerns. Several priorities development. The school is also introducing a that putting a plan together quickly is not ideal. emerged, and plans were put together by the therapy dog program for special needs students. To slow it down a little, they are implementing the governing board. Each component was voted on Please turn to When/Page 9
New approach shows promise — but also presents challenges Continued from previous page so many other requirements — including the new “Down here there are a lot of charter schools and Erin Porter, president of the Dennis-Yarmouth evaluation system and Common Core curriculum school choice districts,” Porter said. “We know we Educators Association, said the program has worked alignment — that there is little time and energy have to do something that’s a little different to appeal well at that school because “the teachers were very left over for planning big changes. In addition, the to our customer base — the parents. The teachers are involved in the planning and implementation from district is in the process of reorganizing and closing working very hard on this and are dedicated. It may the start.” one of its school buildings, which is likely to disrupt be a little too quick, but I think we will succeed.” The Marguerite E. Small School had already the implementation process. Toner said he hopes that expansion of successful established a grant-funded after-school program “My advice to anyone considering this is not to Innovation Schools will help convince legislators before the Innovation model was available. The rush in with major changes too quickly,” she said. and the public that they do not have to lift the cap planning grant gave the staff time to figure out how “We tried to do too much too fast. If we’d had more on charter schools to promote new ideas and choice to provide all students with enrichment during a planning and more teacher involvement from the in public education. Systems are already in place for longer school day without requiring teachers to work beginning, it would have worked better.” Innovation Schools to share their ideas with other longer. schools that want to replicate their practices. This is Porter said the model isn’t completely revenue- hat said, Porter believes the new models are something charter schools were supposed to do but neutral since the district pays some of the teachers a promising. Plans in her preK-3 school include have rarely accomplished. stipend to stay longer for the enrichment block. “But T a healthy-lunch program that incorporates “I believe that MTA members can and should be they are getting a big bang for their buck,” she said. local produce from a community garden and a farm- the architects of reform and not the objects of it. We “The students and teachers are very happy with the to-plate initiative, a beautification project for which need to be the ones leading change with our students new schedule.” students helped plant hundreds of daffodils and a and communities,” Toner said. “When they are The experience in the district’s other two community service program that involves students developed with educators, their unions and community Innovation Schools that opened this year has been “harvesting” pennies on behalf of a charity they get members, Innovation Schools can be a very positive mixed, Porter said. Teachers are overwhelmed by to choose. experience for teachers and students alike.” Winter 2013 7 Four candidates running for NEA Director seats our MTA members are vying for two Salazar of the Somerville Teachers The terms last for three years, submissions appear on this page. For further F seats on the NEA Board of Directors. Association and Bonnie Page of the beginning Sept. 1, 2013, and expiring Aug. information on MTA nominations and The NEA Director candidates are Malden Education Association. 31, 2016, in accordance with the NEA’s elections, please contact Diane Timothy Sheehan of the Amherst-Pelham The two open Massachusetts seats fiscal year. Ballots will be sent to the entire Foley of the MTA Division of Governance Education Association, Diana (Donnie) will be filled by direct-mail vote in March membership. by calling 617.878.8217, e-mailing McGee of the Massachusetts Community and April, in tandem with the NEA Each candidate was asked to submit a [email protected] or faxing College Council’s Bristol Chapter, Gloria statewide and regional delegate elections. statement and a photograph. The candidates’ inquiries to 617.742.7046.
Timothy Sheehan The NEA Board of Directors will play an important I will bring my experience as a local president and Amherst-Pelham Education Association role in the coming years. Recently, public employees in treasurer, MTA Board member and experienced educator states as progressive as Massachusetts have lost collective to representing your voice in t would be an honor to represent you on the NEA bargaining rights and become “right to work” states. The Washington, D.C. I have worked I Board of Directors. NEA Board must take a proactive stance to protect collective closely with education support As a classroom teacher, I have a clear understanding bargaining where it still exists and also push back to reclaim professionals, teachers and of the challenges facing us as educators in the 21st the rights of public employees where they have been lost. administrators in preK-graduate century. Educators are accountable to students, families, Unfortunately, the NEA and many of its affiliates are school settings and will continue to administrators, school committees and state and federal facing shrinking budgets due to a loss of membership. Our work collaboratively to bring us to agencies. We face shrinking budgets, the continued loss of goals must be streamlined and prioritized to best support the our shared goal of better teaching and colleagues to budget cuts, stagnant salaries, loss of benefits rights of educators while we continue to ensure high-quality learning conditions for everyone. and, perhaps worst of all, a lack of respect for our profession. public education so our children can be informed citizens in I would appreciate your vote Timothy Sheehan It is up to us as educators and leaders to reverse this tide. our democracy and compete in a globalized economy. for NEA Director. Thank you.
Diana (Donnie) McGee My MTA union experience includes four-plus years public education and the related resources needed to fund MCCC-Bristol Community College on the Board of Directors and service on the following our schools and colleges. committees: State Revenue Enhancement, Full Capacity Like other MTA members, I am running for the position of NEA Director Local Training, Public Relations/Organizing Campaign, am concerned about the attacks on I because I believe my 15-plus years of union leadership, and Government Relations. I have been an MTA Annual collective bargaining rights; the trend professional experience and statewide activism will enable Meeting delegate since 2002, an NEA RA delegate since toward privatization; the emphasis me to defend public education and represent MTA locals 2006 and a member of the Higher Education Leadership on performance-based funding and effectively. Council since 2008. related educator evaluations; the I am currently an English professor at Bristol As a State House lobbyist and union activist, I led overreliance on part-time, non- Community College, where I have worked for 30 years multiple campaigns that resulted in the enactment of new benefited employees; and the ever as a writing specialist, program coordinator and faculty laws that would promote increased retirement security for increasing cost of health insurance. member. thousands of MTA members. Twice I was sent by the MTA On your behalf, I would bring a Diana McGee As the statewide vice president of the Massachusetts to Washington, D.C., to lobby for the repeal of the GPO/ passionate voice to the NEA Board Community College Council, I have chaired its Strategic WEP statutes that penalize many MTA members upon and Capitol Hill. Action and ORP Ad Hoc Committees for the past six-plus retirement. I have testified before dozens of legislative Please consider me when you cast your ballot. Thank years. committees and authored many op-ed pieces in support of you.
Gloria Salazar year building rep, in having them reinstated. For eight years I have represented the Northeast Somerville Teachers Association I have devoted myself to the union all 12 years that Region at the National Ethnic Leaders Meeting prior to I have been a teacher in the United States. I have served the RA. I was selected to be part am a passionate leader with a long-lasting commitment locally as a building representative, member of the Board of the committee sent to Honduras I to drive for results and pursue equal opportunity. of Directors and member of the negotiations team. I have by the NEA in 2009. I currently My commitment begins in supporting my students attended the NEA RA every year since 2003. Also, I have serve on the NEA Human and Civil as an ELL instructor in Somerville. Beyond inspiring my attended and presented at the Northeast MLT and NRL Rights Committee and the NEA students, I have learned that participating in the union, conferences. I have been appointed to return to the Equal Resolutions Committee. outside of your local, is critical to ensure that decision- Opportunity Council after eight years away. At a time when unions are makers are well-informed and active in pursuing local At the RA, I serve on the New Business Item under attack, leaders like me who interests and challenges. Committee. At the national level, I served as Northeast demonstrate experience can help I learned this by experiencing firsthand how five of regional director of the National Hispanic Caucus and defend what those before us created. Gloria Salazar my colleagues were dismissed under the guise of new a representative on the Team of Experts that met in San I offer a different perspective. bilingual regulations. I was instrumental, even as a first- Francisco to write the NEA’s ELL module. Thank you for your vote.
Bonnie Page I have also served on MTA committees, including of our members and the education of our students. Malden Education Association the MTA Benefits Board, the Committee to Evaluate Communication and getting the Executive Director-Treasurer, the Communications more of us involved are vital to y name is Bonnie Page and I am asking for your Council (as chair and a member), the Workplace Equity accomplishing this. I have the M vote to represent you as one of your NEA directors. Committee and the Human and Civil Rights Committee. experience and passion that are I am an active teacher in Malden and have The MTA needs NEA directors who will be out in front needed to work for you at the represented all educators in my local as vice president and of all the issues our members encounter — RTTT, NCLB, national level. as negotiations, bylaws and grievance chair, as well as the new educator evaluation tool, pensions and health I am excited to have the serving as a building representative. Additionally, I have insurance. Our ESPs need a fair wage and good benefits. opportunity to serve you, the served on the MTA Board of Directors for 11 years, as From preK to higher ed, your concerns will be heard. members, on a national level. an MTA Annual Meeting delegate for 24 years and as a I firmly believe in the impact that we can have I would appreciate your vote. delegate to the NEA RA for 16 years. as a union on the quality of the professional lives Thank you. Bonnie Page
8 Winter 2013 School gardens produce healthy results By Bob Duffy
multi-year push to help students and teachers establish gardens at Massachusetts schools A continues to bear fruit. The Massachusetts Farm to School project, started in 2004 and based in Amherst, encourages students to learn where their food comes from and persuades them to get their hands dirty as they learn how to lead healthier lives. Gardens at public schools were commonplace through the first half of the 20th century, but diminished in popularity with the rise of processed foods. In the past few years, however, environmental concerns and student health problems such as obesity and diabetes have led to a revival of localized efforts to grow produce. In addition to promoting healthier lifestyles, school gardens enrich many subject areas and Photo by Bob Duffy students’ abilities. They also promote teamwork Kindergarten paraprofessional Kelly Procurot works with students in the Bagnall School garden. among educators, students of all ages and communities. “There is growing interest in this issue, and “You can’t force kids to eat carrots over cookies At the Dr. Elmer S. Bagnall School in Groveland, each year we have had increasing demand for these if they don’t want to, so we hope that if the students the garden is incorporated into just about every facet types of professional development programs,” said start learning the process and they grow the healthy of the day. Students learn about life sciences through Donna Johnson, president of the University Staff food themselves, they are going to be more likely to the soils the garden uses and the produce it grows. In Association at UMass Amherst. Johnson, who is also try these healthy foods and maybe even enjoy them,” math, students estimate how many plants can fit into a member of the MTA Board of Directors, has helped said Debra Hebert, who also works in food services limited spaces, measure the perimeter of the garden spearhead expansion of the gardening effort. at the school. and estimate the volume of the beds. The number of public school districts School gardens also offer a way to integrate the The literacy lab includes the use of gardening establishing school gardens “has grown community into school activities, which promotes books, and vocabulary develops as students converse exponentially in the last several years,” said Debi increased family and community involvement. with teachers about everything from plant life to Hogan, executive director of the Massachusetts Over the summer, for example, volunteer components of the soil. chapter of Agriculture in the Classroom, a national families share the job of tending the Bagnall School Establishing the Bagnall School garden took nonprofit organization that has worked since 1984 to garden. A journal is left in the garden for families to a lot of planning and work. After the idea was provide training and resources for educators. record their thoughts and leave messages for other suggested by a parent, a group of educators, families Interest in school gardens “has really surged in volunteers. and businesses conducted research and obtained a the last two to three years because people are really At Haverhill High School, a dedicated team $5,000 NEA grant through the MTA before getting starting to see the benefits,” Hogan added. of ESPs plans to use the school garden to provide the project approved by the local school committee. “The professional development provided by the activities that teach cooperation, responsibility and With the help of a joint NEA-MTA professional MTA around establishing school gardens has been patience, as well as to increase self-esteem among development program, education support awesome,” said Donna Beeler, an ESP at Haverhill students in the Learning for Life program for professionals took the lead, obtaining technical High School. disabled students who are transitioning to adulthood. assistance on the types of plants that would grow “This type of professional development fits right “These kids have never had the opportunity best in their area and providing curriculum guides in with our goal to try to get the students to eat more to learn to garden and grow their own fruits and within the state’s frameworks on how to use the fruits and vegetables,” noted Rachel Oliveira, who vegetables, so the idea is to teach them how to do gardens as a teaching tool. The NEA is using works in food services at the Frederick W. Hartnett it for themselves and also to provide fresh fruit and Massachusetts to pilot the expansion of the program Middle School in Blackstone. A school garden vegetables to the school,” said Beeler. to other states around the nation. reinforces the concept of eating right by engaging The program partners ESPs with local farmers the students in the process of growing their own food For more information on school gardens and they can call on for help and advice on everything and might even influence what they are willing to the Farm to School Project, contact Johnson by from plant selection to the timing of crops. consume, she said. e-mailing [email protected]. ‘When this process is done right, it is teacher-owned,’ union leader says Continued from Page 7 the school’s MCAS scores, Mazza urged the district to needs of their students. Lawrence, the local Winter Hill is typical of an urban school. Among provide T passes to middle-schoolers who no longer president, noted that Somerville has had a number its students, 84 percent are low-income, three- qualify for busing so that they can remain at Winter of innovative programs for years. She believes this quarters are of color, 20 percent are English language Hill, where they have made significant progress. model is different. learners and 27 percent have special needs. MCAS In the end, the teachers agreed the Innovation “Somerville has always been innovative, but the scores are below the state average. School process is not just about raising test scores, innovation has not always been teacher-owned,” she The school also houses a large Sheltered English though they hope that happens. Mostly, they want said. “When this process is done right, it is teacher- Immersion program that draws students from across their school to be a welcoming community that owned. Teachers have a voice in every step of the the district. Although this program no doubt affects addresses both the learning and social-emotional process.” Winter 2013 9 Photos by Laura Barrett Christine Boseman, Suban Krishnamoorthy, Shin Freedman, Karen Reed and Julia Monteiro Johnson, left to right, enjoyed the evening festivities. Conference focuses on need for involvement Speaker calls on EMAC audience to ‘organize, organize, organize’
By Laura Barrett n Find mentors. Most often, they find you. “I think these numbers are a shame because n Actively listen. Empathy is important. young ethnic minority children should have more “ ow about the 2012 election?” said an n Be kind to people. adult authority figures who look like them,” Boseman upbeat Princess Moss, the luncheon speaker n Never, ever play with other people’s money. added. “We want our children to know that they, H at the recent MTA Ethnic Minority Affairs n Find a replacement for yourself if you move too, can someday become a teacher, or a principal, Committee Conference. on. That means you’re bringing other people along. a college student or a college professor, a senator or “President Obama is taking his case to the n Remember that life is not fair. Favor isn’t fair, maybe even the president of the United States!” American people,” she continued. “If we’re going to either. When the window of opportunity opens, be Later, Boseman offered her view of how be in the fight, we must organize. A lot of our ethnic prepared. Once it closes, it may not open again for educators — and members of the committee — can minority members are very new to politics. They years. build power and involvement. are fresh, fertile ground for us to organize, organize, Several of those lessons apply to Christine “As leaders we can extend our reach by teaching organize.” Boseman, the new chair of the committee and a other future leaders. We can teach one and reach two, Moss is a member of the NEA Executive member of the Classified Staff Union at the University teach two and reach four, teach three reach six, and Committee. Like the other speakers at the of Massachusetts in Boston. Boseman credited so on,” she said. “We want our members to know conference, which was held at the Sheraton mentors with getting her involved by asking her to what EMAC has to offer and that we are here.” Framingham on Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, she emphasized become a CSU steward and then inviting her to come Former NEA President Reg Weaver energized the need to get more ethnic minority members to the Summer Conference for training. As a result, conference participants in a lively keynote address. involved in their locals, in the MTA and in the NEA. she was ready when new opportunities arose. Weaver told stories about the different paths his own Important ways to become involved, speakers “While I was at the Summer Conference, Susan children took through education, recalling that one of noted, include attending the EMAC Conference Baker grabbed me by the collar, so to speak, and them struggled in school until he found his way at a each winter and participating in training and other insisted I join EMAC,” Boseman said, referring to community college. “One of the best kept secrets — activities at the MTA Summer Conference, which is her predecessor as EMAC chair. “The rest is history.” a community college,” Weaver said. held in Williamstown every August. In addition to listening to the presenters, the The Ethnic Minority Affairs Committee was oseman and Moss both highlighted the MTA members who attended the conference took founded in 1979 and is charged with implementing importance of increasing the number of part in workshops and, on Friday evening, enjoyed the MTA Ethnic Minority Involvement Plan, which ethnic minority educators in the state. dinner followed by dancing to the Never Say Never is designed to increase the participation of members B Moss said that students need “powerful, positive Jazz Band. from diverse backgrounds in all phases of the role models.” Suban Krishnamoorthy, a member of the association. Boseman cited statistics showing those role computer science faculty at Framingham State “I didn’t get to a leadership position with the models aren’t always available. University, said he is an EMAC participant because NEA by myself,” Moss told a crowd of more than “While two-thirds of students in this state are he has always been interested in diversity. 100 conference attendees and MTA Board members white, nine out of 10 of the teachers are white,” “When I grew up in India, I was taught there is during her speech. She then ticked off some of the she said. “Eight percent of students are African- only one race,” he said. “Human beings.” lessons she learned along the way: American but only 2.6 percent of teachers are n It is important to volunteer. That’s also how African-American. Fifteen percent of students are MTA members interested in learning more you inspire others to be engaged. Hispanic but less than 3 percent of teachers are about the Ethnic Minority Affairs Committee should n Learn the power structure of your organization. Hispanic. Five-and-a-half percent of our students are contact staff consultant George Luse by e-mailing Not every power person has a title. Asian but only 1 percent of teachers are Asian. [email protected].
10 Winter 2013 MTA and NAACP announce partnership Organizations to focus on narrowing achievement gaps and other key goals By Laura Barrett MTA President Paul Toner said The day after the announcement, white, they are serving a much more and Jean Conley the association is eager to work Toner praised Governor Deval diverse population — one in which with the NAACP to make sure that Patrick’s State of the Commonwealth 29 percent of students are from ethnic he MTA and the New England all students have an opportunity to address, which proposed significant and racial minority backgrounds. More Area Conference of the learn and thrive in the state’s public new investments in public education, specifically, 8 percent of students, T NAACP chose Jan. 15, the 84th schools. from early education through college. but only 2.6 percent of teachers, are anniversary of the birth of Martin Luther “On average, our students perform Patrick, Toner said, “is wise not to African-American and 15 percent of King Jr., to announce a partnership to better than students in any other conclude that our job is done.” students, but less than 3 percent of address the educational achievement state and as well as top-performing Cofield and Toner agreed that teachers, are Latino. gaps affecting low-income students and students in the world,” Toner said. poverty among African-American n Improving the quality and students of color. “Unfortunately, averages can mask and Latino students is at the root of affordability of early childhood Priorities include increasing persistent disparities. While many the problems facing many of them education. According to a 2012 report the number of teachers of color students in and must be addressed through broad by the NAACP, “Finding Our Way in Massachusetts public schools, our high- political and economic reforms. They Back to First: improving access to affordable high- achieving also agreed, however, that school Reclaiming quality early childhood education for schools are systems can do more to close the World Leadership low-income students and students of winning achievement gaps if they are given by Educating color, and recruiting and retaining spots in top universities and adequate funding and support. All America’s highly qualified teachers to work in succeeding in their studies, too high The partnership’s goals include: Children,” by the hard-to-staff urban schools. a percentage of students entering our n Increasing the number of time they reach “Education has long been the higher education system — especially educators of color. Students of color age 3, children key to success for students of color,” English language learners, students benefit greatly from having educator from higher- said Juan Cofield, president of the of color and low-income students — role models who understand and share income families New England Area Conference of the still need remedial education before their backgrounds. In Massachusetts, have heard as many as 30 million more NAACP. “Too many of our children they can take college-level courses. In as in other states, teachers of color are words than children from lower-income enter kindergarten already behind and addition, college completion rates are underrepresented in schools. While 93 families. In addition to educating are never able to catch up.” too low for these students.” percent of Massachusetts teachers are parents about the importance of talking
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Winter 2013 11 Members urged to support crucial bills
By Jean Conley and social justice organizations in undergraduate courses taught by full- which the MTA plays a lead role. The time tenured and tenure-track faculty. he MTA’s legislative priorities bill calls for restoring the income tax The MTA and the bill’s backers believe for the current session include to the previous rate of 5.95 percent the overuse of adjunct faculty in the T bills that would mean significant as well as raising the tax rate on state’s public colleges and universities investments in public education at all investment income to 8.95 percent threatens the quality of education. levels, revive a commission updating while holding down increases for The bill, sponsored by Representative the Foundation Budget, establish a low- and middle-income taxpayers and David Sullivan (D-Fall River), would commission to examine current funding seniors. The measure is sponsored by also require health and pension for public education and recommend Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz (D-Boston) benefits for adjunct faculty. changes, increase the number of courses and Representative James O’Day n “An Act Relative to Improving taught by full-time faculty at public (D-West Boylston). Quality in Early Education and Care colleges and universities, require n “An Act Reviving the Foundation Through Center-Based Child Care more integrity in the ballot initiative Budget Review Commission,” which Providers,” which would help the petition process and create a providers’ would put a panel in place to review the state establish a process, through organization for early childhood Chapter 70 Foundation Budget formula. negotiation, to improve the quality of workers. The goal is to ensure that the formula early learning and child-care services. MTA President Paul Toner urged precisely targets resources to provide all The bill would also seek to expand members to support the six bills. students with a high-quality education. educational advancement opportunities “Our members need to lend their Communities,” a measure that the The bill is sponsored by Chang-Diaz for child-care providers. The bill is strong, clear voices to these initiatives MTA-supported Campaign for Our and Representative Alice Peisch sponsored by Senator Sal DiDomenico by contacting their legislators right Communities asked to have filed — (D-Wellesley). (D-Everett) and Representative Jeffrey away and staying active in the raises almost $2 billion by increasing n “An Act Establishing a Sanchez (D-Boston). legislative process,” Toner said. the income tax rate and increasing Commission on the Funding Needs n “An Act to Protect the Integrity While Massachusetts students personal exemptions so that low- and for Quality Public Higher Education,” of Initiative and Referendum score at the top on the National middle-income families would see which establishes a commission Petitions,” which seeks to ensure Assessment of Educational Progress little increase in their taxes. The MTA composed of representatives of the integrity and confidence in the ballot and international exams, he said, also urges support for the governor’s Legislature, administration and initiative process. The bill calls for additional efforts are crucial to proposal. unions to assess current funding establishing a process that would narrowing the achievement gaps The six key MTA bills are: for higher education and then offer guarantee a fair system of collecting among students and ensuring that n “An Act to Invest in Our recommendations on program signatures for petitions. Currently, Massachusetts can meet the challenges Communities,” which would provide improvements, staffing and funding. there are no state regulations of a global economy. about $2 billion in new revenue to The bill is sponsored by Senator concerning the oversight of individuals On Jan. 23, Governor Deval restore cuts that have been made to Michael Moore (D-Millbury). The who are paid to gather signatures. The Patrick released his budget proposal budgets in recent years. The increase governor, in his fiscal 2014 budget, has sponsors are Senator Stan Rosenberg for the next fiscal year. Included in revenue would also allow new also called for a commission to study (D-Amherst) and Representative is a bold plan to increase revenue investments in programs that make higher education funding. His proposal Denise Provost (D-Somerville). and make major investments in Massachusetts communities good is based on the MTA’s bill. To send an e-mail urging your education, infrastructure and places to live. The Campaign for Our n “An Act Restoring Faculty legislators to support the six bills, go to innovation. Patrick’s revenue proposal Communities is a statewide coalition and College Excellence,” which http://www.capwiz.com/nea/ma/issues/ — like “An Act to Invest in Our of 120 labor, education, community seeks to increase the percentage of alert/?alertid=62328451&type=ST. Governor’s budget seeks increased funding for public education By Jean Conley lessen the impact on low- and middle- fully implemented, raises $1.9 billion bill would also increase the personal income taxpayers. in new revenue. The budget would exemption to ease the impact on low- overnor Deval Patrick has “The governor’s budget lays out a increase the income tax rate from 5.25 and middle-class earners. proposed a $34.8 billion plan that provides high-quality public percent to 6.25 percent, double the In the governor’s proposal for G budget for the upcoming fiscal education opportunities for every personal exemption and lower the sales fiscal 2014, which begins July 1, year that significantly increases funding student in the Commonwealth, from tax from 6.25 percent to 4.5 percent. Chapter 70 state aid for preK-12 for education and transportation. early childhood through college, as The governor’s budget uses education to municipalities and The budget, released on Jan. 23, well as funding for the infrastructure an approach similar to that of the regional schools would rise to a new represents close to a 7 percent increase needed to accelerate the growth of the Campaign for Our Communities, a high of $4.4 billion, a $226 million over current spending. Almost every state’s innovation economy,” Toner coalition that supports legislation increase over current spending. In area of the budget would see increases, said. “While many households in filed by Representative James O’Day addition, Patrick calls for increasing including local aid and human service Massachusetts continue to struggle (D-West Boylston) and Senator Sonia local aid by $31 million, education programs, which were cut during the with the effects of the recession, Chang-Diaz (D-Boston). The coalition’s grants by $13 million and efforts to recession. investing today in education and bill, called “An Act to Invest in Our help close the achievement gaps in the MTA President Paul Toner transportation will significantly Communities,” would raise $2 billion a state’s Gateway Cities by $11 million. applauded the governor’s approach, improve job growth tomorrow.” year when fully phased in to maintain For public higher education, the which calls for raising revenue while To pay for the increases, the funding for communities, schools, governor proposes a $193 million doubling the personal exemption to governor proposes a plan which, when health-care needs and public safety. The Continued on next page
12 Winter 2013 New teachers focus on classroom techniques By Meg Secatore he said often have new educators “spinning their wheels.” he takeaway: It’s as important to “We talked about how everything the conference experience as are we do in class is important, but not T inspiring speakers, the chance to everything has to be graded,” Milton build your professional network and, of continued. “The discussion was very course, freebies and prizes. rich, with educators from so many For Michael Milton, a Burlington different disciplines and grade levels in High School psychology and world the room.” history teacher, “the takeaway” from The program for the Nov. 30 the recent MTA Just for New Teachers conference, which brought 168 Conference — the idea he knew educators from across the state to he could use right away in his own Marlborough, was the brainchild of classroom — was Bloom’s Mountain, MTA’s New Member Committee, demonstrated in a workshop titled which also plans Summer Conference “Keeping Them Engaged.” offerings and events throughout the “In our presentation we year. included an activity called ‘Question “We want new members to see Generation’ based on Bloom’s that involvement in the MTA is the Taxonomy,” said Laura Vago, a best way for them to support public middle-school science teacher in education,” said committee Chair Josh Malden. “It involves a poster of a Chrzanowski, a teacher in Chicopee. figurative ‘mountain’ split into six Photo by Bob Duffy Chrzanowski was master of ceremonies levels, each corresponding to one level for the conference luncheon, which Michael Milton and Jennifer Maio participated in presenting a workshop of Bloom’s Taxonomy’’ — that is, included greetings from MTA President on assessing student progress during the Just for New Teachers remembering, understanding, applying, Conference in Marlborough. The event, which featured a wide range of Paul Toner and Vice President Tim analyzing, evaluating and creating. topics and sessions, drew 168 educators from across the state. Sullivan, as well as a keynote address “Students create questions about from Kathleen Turner, Massachusetts a particular topic or a response to Kranz, who began using the “And, it doesn’t have to be a Teacher of the Year. reading, which require thinking at activity last year when her district mountain,” added Kranz. “We have Conference day opened with the different Bloom’s levels, and then implemented the Keys to Literacy ships and dinosaurs in our building, a breakfast buffet and a round post them onto the correct point of the program, has found the exercise to too.” of Bingo that had participants mountain using sticky notes,” Vago be “an invaluable tool in getting the “This conference is great because scrambling to complete their game explained. students to think more deeply about it is designed for members and the cards by networking with each other, “After all the questions have been the texts we read.” learning is peer to peer,” said Milton, representatives of MTA divisions and posted, the class discusses whether “It’s a great classroom activity who presented a workshop titled MTA Benefits vendors. they have been placed appropriately for both thinking and engagement “Assessing Student Progress” with In addition to Chrzanowski, Kranz, and we make the necessary changes,” and a great way to review material,” Krystle LaChance of Southborough, LaChance, Maio, Milton, O’Sullivan said co-presenter Miriam Kranz, said another co-presenter, Rosie Jennifer Maio of Groton-Dunstable and Vago, members of the New Member who frequently uses the exercise in O’Sullivan, a seventh-grade science and Kathleen Skinner, director of Committee are Trevor Blanchet of her eighth-grade English language teacher in Waltham. MTA’s Center for Education Policy Dracut, Deidre D’Egidio of Wrentham, arts classes in Southbridge. “Then, Milton, who knew about Bloom’s and Practice. Emily Ferrara of Leominster, Kathy as a class, we answer a couple of Taxonomy but had never seen the Skinner “is a wealth of Kennedy of Acton-Boxborough, the questions from each level. Over mountain exercise, called it an information, and she was able to give Nichole Masse of Dracut, Cheryl time, students should be able to innovative idea. a really great overview of student McDonough of Malden, Jessica independently develop questions “To be able to think about these assessment,” Milton said. Rosenthal of Stoughton, Nicole Shadeed requiring higher-order thinking, different ways of thinking and to be Participants in the workshop of Methuen, Maryann Ziemba of Millis figuratively climbing the mountain and able to put that into students’ heads is spent a lot of time discussing and Andrea Pires, a Stoughton teacher leading their own class discussions.” just remarkable,” he said. summative assessments, which and president of her local association. Patrick proposes creation of commission to study campus issues Continued from previous page the ratio of adjunct faculty to full-time raise the quality of early education. that the proposed tax increases would increase in campus line items and faculty. When fully phased in, the increase revenue by close to $1.2 scholarship aid over the current year, a Funding for early education would governor’s initiative would increase billion in fiscal year 2014, $1.6 billion rise of more than 18 percent. rise by $132 million next year under education investment by close to $1 in fiscal year 2015 and more than $1.8 The budget also establishes a the governor’s plan, growing to a billion. Because most of the new billion in fiscal year 2016. commission on public higher education $350 million increase by FY17. The increases in revenue would not take A summary of key elements of finance, one of MTA’s legislative additional funds would help ensure effect until January 2014 and the FY14 the budget is available on the MTA priorities. The commission would be that low-income families have access budget year begins July 1, all new website, www.massteacher.org. For charged with examining a number of to high-quality early education. The revenue would not be available until further details and spreadsheets, higher education issues, including the funding also provides more training the FY15 and FY16 budgets. go to http://www.massteacher.org/ appropriate use of adjunct faculty and for teachers and supports initiatives to The governor’s office estimates advocating/budget/budgetsheets.aspx. Winter 2013 13 Locals urged to bargain over RETELL impact By Laura Barrett training in applied linguistics, teaching ESL or other related subjects, if approved by the DESE. ome local associations with members who n Complete certain category trainings plus are being assigned to a training course Core Academic Teachers an abridged SEI course. Completion of a DESE- S in educating English language learners Defined in regulations as early developed “bridge” SEI endorsement course for are dealing with scheduling issues, unanswered childhood and elementary teachers, those who have taken two or three of the following questions and other implementation concerns. category trainings: 1, 2 and 4. The DESE has said teachers of students with moderate The MTA is encouraging local associations to the course will be available in the fall of 2013. It bargain over the impact of the new requirement and and severe disabilities and teachers has informed districts that members eligible for this is strongly urging the Department of Elementary of the following academic subjects “bridge” course do not have to take the full SEI and Secondary Education to communicate more at all grade levels: English, reading or endorsement course. effectively about it with educators and districts. language arts, mathematics, science, n Complete an educator preparation The Rethinking Equity and Teaching for English civics and government, economics, program. The regulations require approved educator Language Learners — RETELL — initiative is the history, and geography. programs to include SEI instruction for students who DESE’s response to a U.S. Department of Justice will complete the program for an Initial License after finding that the state has failed to adequately train July 1, 2014. teachers in Sheltered English Immersion instruction. requirement. Given the large number, the department n Pass a DESE-approved assessment. The SEI was mandated for most ELL students after the is providing trainers to districts on a staggered DESE intends to offer an SEI MTEL beginning early passage of an initiative petition by voters in 2002 basis. Affected districts are placed in one of three in 2014. Earning a passing score will qualify teachers that outlawed most forms of bilingual education. “cohorts.” Training for the first cohort begins this for the endorsement. Meanwhile, teachers who have “We have heard from many teachers that they spring, and all training must be done by the end of received an SEI or ESL endorsement in another state agree they need better training in how to teach ELL the 2015-2016 school year. may also qualify, but must seek approval from the students,” said MTA President Paul Toner. “But we When they have met the requirement, affected DESE. have also heard concerns about how quickly this teachers will apply for the SEI endorsement via Questions remain about what training will be is being implemented and how frequently teachers their ELAR — Educator Licensure and Recruitment available for teachers who can’t take the course at are being assigned to courses they aren’t available — accounts. the time it is offered in their districts. There are also to take. This is a very time-consuming obligation. The following are ways that teachers can obtain unanswered questions about how the mandate applies Districts need to make every effort to make it as easy an endorsement. to core academic teachers in districts that have low and convenient as possible for teachers to fulfill the n Complete a DESE-approved SEI endorsement numbers of ELL students and who therefore are not requirement.” course. This course will be offered at no cost to assigned to a cohort. For example, it is unclear what The RETELL regulations require a subset of members who take it during their district’s “cohort” sanctions, if any, the state or districts will seek to teachers called “core academic teachers” to receive period. Equivalent to a three-credit graduate course, impose on teachers who have never been offered the an SEI endorsement in order to extend, advance this training involves 45 hours of instruction and SEI course if an ELL student is assigned to them in or renew their licenses after 2016. There are six is worth 67.5 professional development points. the future. possible ways to obtain the endorsement. According to DESE guidance, districts must consult The MTA is continuing to press the DESE for The primary option — the DESE-approved with teachers before assigning them to a specific answers to these and other questions while at the course — is being offered free of charge in certain course schedule. If teachers cannot take the course same time assisting local associations in bargaining districts. Teachers who forgo taking the course in the during the assigned period, they should seek a over the impact of the new regulations as they are hope they will pass the SEI MTEL — Massachusetts change of schedule from their administrators. If the implemented. Test for Educator Licensure — or obtain the district refuses to accommodate them, they should More information is available from the MTA endorsement by other means must pay for the seek help from their local associations. at www.massteacher.org/ell, the Department alternate route themselves. n Have an ESL or ELL license. of Elementary and Secondary Education at The DESE estimates that anywhere from n Have completed approved prior training. www.doe.mass.edu/retell/, your local association 25,000 to 40,000 teachers are affected by the new Completion of undergraduate- or graduate-level and your district administration.
Yes! Send me additional information on how MTAvacations.com will save me money MTAvacations.com on travel and vacations! Name ______MTA Members Receive Discounts Discounts Address ______On Vacations and Travel! City ______State ____ ZIP ______Phone ______E-mail ______Within what time period do you expect to take your next vacation? 3 Months 6 Months 12 Months 12-24 Months Powered by What types of trips interest you most? Save hundreds on all types of vacations! Cruises Active/Educational Warm weather/Beaches International Domestic International • Domestic • Cruises Which destinations are most appealing to you? • The Caribbean Caribbean Europe Florida Australia/New Zealand There are never any blackout dates, Alaska Mediterranean Bermuda Mexico so members can get away anytime. Mail to: MTA Vacations, P.O. Box 2452, Natick, MA 01760
14 Winter 2013 ‘Education is the great equalizer’ New secretary brings wide range of experience to statewide role By Jean Conley “Education is the great equalizer,” said Malone, Initiative, successfully converting three large “and it is incumbent upon the schools to prepare the underperforming high schools into 14 career-themed ormer Brockton School Superintendent students of today for the challenges of tomorrow. high schools, among other accomplishments. Matthew H. Malone began his new job as There are unique challenges to working in urban He has worked in F Massachusetts Secretary of Education on Jan. school systems where poverty, language barriers the Boston school system 14, replacing Paul Reville in that post. and other special needs are represented in greater as a paraprofessional, a Governor Deval Patrick said Malone brings numbers.” headmaster and a social a “keen understanding of the challenges facing Kim Gibson, president of the Brockton studies teacher. He also Gateway City schools to his new role.” The governor Education Association, called Malone “a leader with was a middle school pointed to Malone’s “tremendous amount of passion” vision, integrity and passion.” assistant principal in and his stewardship of the Brockton Public Schools “Dr. Malone created an environment of Duxbury. for more than three years. Brockton has the state’s collaboration during his time in Brockton,” Gibson Malone served as a fourth-largest school district, with about 16,000 said, “and made sure the union was involved in sergeant in the Marines students. conversations during the planning phases of any during the Persian Gulf MTA President Paul Toner also offered praise changes the system was contemplating. War, in both the Saudi for Malone. “The respect that the superintendent had for Arabian and Kuwaiti “Matt has spent his career in public education, the BEA was evident and served the students and theaters. and he understands the needs of our students,” Toner teachers of Brockton very well,” she added. He holds a bachelor’s Matthew H. Malone said. “In addition to a strong leadership background, degree in history from he brings a wealth of firsthand classroom experience efore coming to Brockton, Malone served Suffolk University. He also earned a master’s degree as an ESP and a teacher to his new position.” as superintendent of the 2,400-student in education and a Ph.D. in education/administration/ During Malone’s first year as superintendent B Swampscott Public Schools from 2005 school leadership from Boston College. Malone lives in Brockton, he studied the schools’ organizational to 2009. in Roslindale and has two children in the Boston structure, convened teams to design best practices Prior to taking that post, Malone served as a Public Schools. and wrote “Realigning Resources for Results (R³),” special assistant to the superintendent/instructional Reville, along with other key officials, left the a three- to five-year strategic blueprint for improving leader in the San Diego school district in California. administration as Patrick entered the last two years student achievement and increasing efficiencies. In that role, he led the Small High School Renewal of his gubernatorial term.
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AmericAn experience: The Abolitionists The abolitionist tore the nation apart in order to create a more perfect union. These passionate anti-slavery activists fought the most important civil rights crusade in American history. What began as a pacifist movement fueled by persuasion and prayer became a fiery and furious struggle that forever changed the nation. 120 Minutes ISBN: 9781608838332 Item #: ABOL601
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Winter 2013 15 Teachers offer views on boosting achievement By Laura Barrett based organizations, among other in these communities, yet — as in criminalize minor infractions of school methods, to lengthen the school day, Boston — student performance and rules, and limit both in-school and out- ne of the biggest problems providing enrichment and academic graduation rates are significantly of-school suspensions to only the most in public education is the support for students and shared lower in Gateway Cities than in the serious disruptions.” persistence of achievement planning time for education staff. rest of the state. For example, the O n gaps, even in states like Massachusetts Encouraging Gateway Cities to five-year graduation rate for high he report also recommends where standardized student test scores collaborate on initiatives and jointly school students is just 69 percent in strengthening school- have risen overall. There is no shortage seek grant funding. the Gateway Cities. It is 72 percent in T community relations by, of ideas about how to reduce those Gateway Cities are midsized Boston and 91 percent in the rest of the among other measures, extending gaps, but the individual teacher’s voice urban centers that often serve as the state. school building hours “to allow can often be drowned out in the debate. “gateway” into Massachusetts for One of the biggest challenges students to have a safe place for The MTA collaborated with a immigrant for school districts in the Gateway before- and after-school activities” and Chicago-based organization, New families. Cities is that they serve a relatively establishing “home-school visitation Voice Strategies, to encourage Many of these high percentage of English programs” such as one in effect in teachers to share their ideas on the communities, language learners. Among other parts of Springfield. issue through an online forum called including recommendations, the MTA VIVA The authors recommend that the MTA Voice Ideas Vision Action Holyoke, teachers call on districts to do a better Gateway City administrators work Teachers Idea Exchange. Springfield, job of identifying ELL students who more closely together to share The forum led to recommendations Lawrence have learning disabilities so they can ideas and professional development contained in a report, “Addressing and Lowell, receive appropriate services at a young opportunities and to jointly apply for Educational Inequities: Proposals for are former age. grants. Narrowing the Achievement Gaps in manufacturing They also encourage districts to Massachusetts’ Gateway Cities,” which centers. teach native English language speakers The teacher-writers for the MTA was approved by the MTA Board of They have faced significant social a second language while teaching ELL VIVA project and the districts in Directors. The report has been released and economic challenges since students English. which they teach are: Nancy Hilliard by the MTA and is posted on the MTA manufacturing has been in decline in On the issue of suspensions, and James Kobialka, Worcester; website. the United States. the report recommends, “End all Joel Patterson, Cambridge; Chelsea Through the initiative, more than Education is often seen as the best ‘no excuses’ or ‘zero tolerance’ Mullins, Springfield; and Kathleen 300 teachers in 24 Massachusetts means for building stronger economies disciplinary programs and policies that Sullivan, Malden.
“Gateway Cities” plus Cambridge Paid Advertisement and Somerville shared their views in a freewheeling online discussion. Active participants were then asked to Graduate and Professional Studies join a writing collaborative to craft the recommendations. framingham.edu/admissions | 508.626.4501 “We hope that the MTA VIVA project inspires discussions at the local level about what schools and districts can do about the critically important issues that our teachers have raised,” said MTA President Paul Toner. “The wide variety of opinions expressed Master Your Future at FSU! reminds us all that there is no single solution. Rather, there are a variety of strategies that can be effective if Take your career to the next level. teachers, administrators, parents and community members all work together Master’s programs, graduate certi cates and an Online Professional Development Center on behalf of students.” for Educators = Endless Possibilities! The recommendations include: n Breaking the school-to-prison A ordably priced. Conveniently scheduled. Online options. pipeline by reducing suspensions and promoting positive student behavior through in-school initiatives. Master of Education: Graduate Certificates: Professional Development: n Expanding second-language- Art (P) Literacy and Language (I) (P) Instructional Technology One-Credit Online Courses for acquisition programs. Curriculum and Instructional Mathematics (P) Proficiency (online) Educators (22.5 PDPs: $179; n Transforming teacher Technology (I, online) Nutrition Education STEM Education spring dates: March 4–29) preparation and professional Early Childhood Education (P) Spanish (P) The Teaching of ESL Educational Technology (online) Special Education (I) (I) = Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure development to address the challenges (P) = Leads to Professional Teacher Elementary Education (P) STEM Licensure of a diverse student population. English (P) The Teaching of ESL (I) For more information, please n Strengthening school-community contact Terri-Anne Bynoe, History (P) Director of Graduate Recruitment. relations. Phone: 508.626.4501 n Using flexible staffing schedules Email: [email protected] and collaboration with community-
16 Winter 2013 Nation gears up Charter school proposal draws opposition to celebrate love of reading
By Jean Conley
heodor Seuss Geisel started a revolution in 1957 when he T chose more than 200 beginning vocabulary words and twinned them with his engaging, child-friendly illustrations. The result was a rhyming masterpiece of children’s literature titled “The Cat in the Hat.” On March 1, The Cat will be back in a big way. Teachers and students across Massachusetts will again join their counterparts in thousands of other schools in observing Read Across America Day. The Read Across America
Photos by Laura Barrett program, which is sponsored by the National Education Association, seeks Brockton educators, elected officials and parents turned out in force on Dec. 19 to speak against a proposed Sabis-run charter school. They talked about the negative impact the charter school would to keep reading front and center in the have on excellence and innovation already present in the Brockton Public Schools. Testifying at the classroom and inspire a love of books hearing were Brockton Education Association President Kim Gibson, left, and Brockton Paraprofessional among students. Association President Lorraine Niccoli. A vote on this charter proposal and others is expected soon. The program came into being in 1997 when an NEA task force convened GSE Ad_Layout 1 11/2/11 7:33 PM Page 1 to create a special day to celebrate
Paid Advertisement reading. Dr. Seuss’s birthday, March 2, was chosen as the preferred date, and since then the event has been held as close to then as possible. The theme for 2013 is “Grab Your Hat and Read with the Cat.” This year, NEA’s Read Across America team is producing a Read Across America calendar, certificates, bookmarks and other resources for classrooms, as well as a “Cat-a-log” of reading awards, pencils and classroom decorations at a 20 percent discount for NEA members. The RAA website, www.nea.org/grants/886.htm, will At the Graduate School provide dozens of ideas for teachers and a “pledge wall” on which schools of Education, you can: across the nation — and even in other countries — can post their plans for the day. • Become an elementary or secondary school teacher Last year, the program featured “The Lorax” to coincide with NBC/ • Continue your professional development through Universal’s release of the 3-D film an advanced degree online The Standard of Excellence In Teacher Preparation carrying the same name. Schools used • Join one of our three research-focused doctoral the theme of the book to plant “truffula” degree programs trees and as a jumping-off point for University of Massachusetts Lowell discussions about the environment. We offer Graduate Certificates, M.Ed., Ed.S. Graduate School of Education Born in 1904, Theodor Geisel (previously CAGS) and Ed.D. degrees. 61 Wilder St., O’Leary 510 Lowell, MA 01854-3098 grew up in Springfield and graduated 978.934.4601 from Dartmouth College. As a book Visit our website, www.uml.edu/education, www.uml.edu/education author and illustrator, Dr. Seuss created or contact us at edoffi[email protected] dozens of fantastical best-sellers that sparked the flame of reading for children and adults alike. Winter 2013 17
Regional retirement Have you missed Building B, Lynnfield; 781.246.9779, or at consultations available home, 978.372.2031; fax, 978.372.2035. an issue? PITTSFIELD — Ward F. Johnson: second The MTA conducts retirement CAPE COD — Lawrence Abbruzzi: second Saturday of each month (walk in), 9 a.m. consultations throughout the state to Saturday of each month (walk in), 9 a.m. to to 1 p.m., MTA Berkshire Office, assist members. Proof of membership 1 p.m., Barnstable Teachers Association 188 East St., Pittsfield; 413.499.0257, must be submitted when requesting (BTA), 100 West Main St., Suite #7, Hyannis; or at home, 413.443.1722; e-mail: retirement services. This schedule 508.775.8625, or at home, 508.824.9194. [email protected]. is in effect from September to June, except in the Boston office, which FITCHBURG — Robert Zbikowski: RAYNHAM — Sandra Stephenson: third is staffed during the summer months second Thursday of each month Saturday of each month (walk in), 9 a.m. and school vacations. In the event of (walk in), 4 to 8 p.m., Fitchburg to 1 p.m., MTA Southeast Office, 90 New inclement weather, it is advisable to Teachers Association office, 21 Culley State Highway (Rte. 44), Raynham; call consultants in advance. St., Fitchburg; 978.790.8864, or at 508.822.5371, or at home, 508.747.2234; home, 978.297.0123; e-mail: e-mail: [email protected]. Edward AUBURN — Louise Gaskins: first and [email protected]. Nelson: fourth Saturday of each second Saturdays of each month month (walk in), 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., (walk in), 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., MTA HOLYOKE — Ron Lech: third Saturday MTA Southeast Office, 90 New Central Office, 48 Sword St., Auburn; of each month (walk in), 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., State Highway (Rte. 44), Raynham; 508.791.2121, or at home, 978.448.5351. MTA Western Office, 55 Bobala Road, 508.822.5371, or at home, 508.853.5769. Suite 3, Holyoke; 413.535.2415, or at home, BOSTON — Harold Crowley: Tuesdays, 413.566.3039. Higher education At-Large — Wednesdays and Thursdays (by Edward McCourt, Massachusetts Find back copies appointment only), 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., MTA, LYNNFIELD — Mary Parry: third and fourth Bay Community College, Wellesley; 20 Ashburton Place, Boston; Saturdays of each month (walk in), 9 a.m. to 781.239.2207; e-mail: of MTA Today 617.878.8240 or 800.392.6175, ext. 8240. 1 p.m., MTA Northeast Office, 50 Salem St., [email protected]. online! BRAINTREE — Mary Hanna: second Saturday of each month (walk in), Note: If you or your association would like to have a retirement workshop at your 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., MTA Metropolitan school, your local president should call Harold Crowley at 800.392.6175, ext. 8240. Office, 100 Grandview Road, Braintree; Please be aware that the MTA does not have a record of your service, so members 781.380.1410, or at home, 781.545.2069. are advised to bring that information along to meetings.
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18 Winter 2013 The MTA is seeking nominations for its Sheraton Framingham Hotel. Nominations 2013 Human and Civil Rights Awards. The and supporting data must be received awards honor MTA members and others no later than March 29. Award criteria, NOMINATIONS who work in the areas of human and/or guidelines and application forms have been sought for civil rights and whose activities have had a mailed to local association presidents. community and/or organizational impact. The nomination form is also available at Nominees may be individuals, students, www.massteacher.org/hcr. MTA Human and teachers, administrators or agencies. Further details on the banquet, including The awards will be presented at the Human registration information, will be published Civil Rights Awards and Civil Rights Banquet on June 14 at the in the Spring edition of MTA Today.
Paid Advertisement Preconvention meetings Lesley University Graduate School of Education to be held in April Providing a better learning experience Regional preconvention meetings have been set for elected delegates to for teachers for more than 100 years the 2013 MTA Annual Meeting of Delegates. Lesley’s Graduate School of Education is At these preconventions, the delegates will receive information and marked by its commitment to the preparation materials critical to their decision-making on organizational matters. and professional development of educators, Registration for the preconventions begins at 3:30 p.m. Each meeting is innovative and challenging coursework, and lifelong learning. We offer a wide range of scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. learning opportunities: The following is a list of locations and dates for the 2013 preconventions: • Tuesday, April 9, Central Region, Holiday Inn, Marlborough. • Master’s programs, including those leading to initial and • Tuesday, April 9, Cape and Islands Region, Cape Codder professional licensure Resort, Hyannis. • Wednesday, April 10, Northeast/Metro Regions, Crowne Plaza, • Licensure-only programs Woburn. • Certificate programs, including • Wednesday, April 10, Western Region, Clarion Hotel and Advanced Graduate Studies Conference Center, Northampton. (CAGS) • Thursday, April 11, Southeast/Metro Regions, Holiday Inn, • Ph.D. programs Taunton. • Thursday, April 11, Berkshire Region, Crowne Plaza, Pittsfield. Lesley offers programs to fit your lifestyle. Learn on campus, online, or at a location near you. Inquire about our Further information will be provided to delegates as it becomes new M.Ed. in available. The Annual Meeting of Delegates will be held May 10-11 Questions? Contact [email protected] or 888.LESLEY.U Effective Teaching! at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston. teach.lesley.edu/mta
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Winter 2013 19 Commission recommends retiree health insurance changes overnor Deval Patrick is expected to file 30 years. That is more than the unfunded pension legislation during the current session ‘As is the case with pension liability. Gbased on the recommendations of a special The MTA hired an actuary and a benefits commission he appointed to analyze the impact of reform, our focus is on consultant, both of whom confirmed the figures unfunded retiree health insurance liabilities on state providing the best benefits provided by the state. and local budgets. Unlike they do for the pension system, The commission recommended reducing to long-term employees. employees do not contribute to retiree health benefits for certain short-term employees, but The labor representatives insurance, so paying the benefit has a direct impact also recommended protecting benefits for current on the ability of state and local governments to fund retirees, long-serving employees and current on the commission spoke services and pay salaries of active employees. employees who are near retirement. with one voice in strongly “The labor and retiree representatives on Under current law, someone who works in recommending preservation the commission and our own analysts agreed that the public sector for 10 years in Massachusetts the size of the unfunded liability poses a threat to is entitled to full health benefits upon retirement. of benefits for current members’ jobs, salaries and benefits in the future,” Under the new proposal, benefits in the future retirees, those nearing said MTA President Paul Toner. would be provided to those who work in the public “But we also know that retiree health insurance sector for at least 20 years, though most current retirement and those who is a very important benefit for our members and employees nearing retirement who have worked for have devoted many years to must be safeguarded,” he continued. “As is the case less than 20 years would be granted full or partial with pension reform, our focus is on providing the benefits. public service.’ best benefits to long-term employees. The labor The commission was co-chaired by former MTA representatives on the commission spoke with President Anne Wass and included representatives —MTA President Paul Toner one voice in strongly recommending preservation of the Massachusetts AFL-CIO, the Massachusetts of benefits for current retirees, those nearing Retirees Association and the Massachusetts retirement and those who have devoted many years Municipal Association, as well as appointees The state provided the commission with data to public service.” from the legislative and administrative branches. demonstrating that the unfunded retiree health Details about the recommendations and a Only the MMA representative voted against the insurance liability for state and local governments link to the full report of the commission can be recommendations, contending they did not give totals more than $46 billion — $16.7 billion for state found at www.massteacher.org/news/archive/2013/ municipalities enough power to cut benefits further. and $30 billion for municipalities — over the next retirement.aspx.
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20 Winter 2013 ESP Conference to be ‘bigger and even better’ By Jean Conley an Effective Meeting,” “Organizing Like its predecessors, for Respect and Power” and “ESP ssues ranging from retirement and this year’s conference, Retirement: What You Should Know.” workplace bullying to “taking care to be held April 5 and 6 They can also help provide of the caretaker” highlight two news coverage by participating I at the Sea Crest Beach days of empowering workshops at the in “Reporting Live from the ESP “What Would You Do? What Should MTA’s upcoming Education Support Hotel in Falmouth, gives Conference in Falmouth,” a hands-on You Do?” This thought-provoking Professionals Conference on Cape ESPs their own stage workshop that invites members to session explores the gray areas for Cod. on which to grapple contribute their conference photos to ESPs, including common-sense Like its predecessors, this year’s with some of the most MTA’s Facebook page and Twitter responses to traumatic and frightening conference, to be held April 5 and important issues in stream. The workshop explores social situations. 6 at the Sea Crest Beach Hotel in media tools and suggests ways that Other sessions on Saturday Falmouth, gives ESPs their own stage today’s education ESPs can use these tools to organize are “Immigration Issues for K-12 on which to grapple with some of workplace. and energize their own locals. A and Higher Ed Students,” “Making the most important issues in today’s reception, dinner and a raffle will Community Connections” and “Taking education workplace. The conference minimum of 400 participants. There follow. Care of the Caretaker.” also provides time to dine, laugh and will be 23 workshops at the Sea Crest. On Saturday morning, a breakfast A closing luncheon and more connect with fellow members during “We continue to broaden the buffet precedes the morning sessions raffles follow before the conference an early spring weekend in a beautiful conference every year,” Ficarra said, — “Working with Neurobehavioral wraps up at 3 p.m. on Saturday. location. “to give ESPs what they’re looking Disorders” such as Asperger’s Millie Ficarra of Weymouth, for.” The event offers information syndrome and autism, “Workplace The final date to register for an ESP Committee co-chair and on new topics and skills while also Bullying” and “Moving Off of Stuck the conference is March 1. For a member of the MTA Executive bringing back popular presenters to — Building a Strong Local.” information on conference costs, Committee, said she is looking forward repeat workshops from past years. After a break, one workshop hotel charges and registration, visit to a “bigger and even better” event On Friday, April 5, attendees titled “Don’t Trip over Your Cape” www.massteacher.org/esp. Other than the one in 2012. can go to afternoon sessions titled takes in the myriad competencies questions can be directed to MTA ESP Ficarra said the increasingly “Collective Bargaining Issues expected in today’s workplace. Other Organizer/Consultant George Luse at popular conference has outgrown two Affecting Paraprofessionals in sessions include “Today a Peacock [email protected]. His phone facilities and this year is attracting a Special Ed Settings,” “How to Run ... Tomorrow a Feather Duster” and number is 800.542.5504.
Winter 2013 21 New law requires background checks for educators
By Sarah Nathan The MTA was successful in used only for the purposes intended. The law takes effect for the advocating that any law related to The new law includes a one- 2013-2014 school year for all new overnor Deval Patrick has educator background checks should time fee for prospective and current employees and requires all current signed legislation requiring not be limited to public schools, but employees, which will be capped employees to undergo national G prospective and current also should include all private schools at $55 for teachers and professional background checks over the next Massachusetts educators employed in and licensed child-care programs. staff and $35 for education support three years. In the next few months, public and private schools, as well as The MTA also worked to make the professionals and child-care regulations will be put in place that those employed in child-care programs provisions for those covered by the employees. The one-time fee is to will help explain how the measure will licensed by the state, to undergo new law consistent with those included cover the cost of the checks and be implemented. national background checks and in CORI reforms made in 2010. associated processing expenses. The The MTA will continue to provide fingerprinting. This will help ensure that access law allows the fees to be subject to updates as things develop, including Massachusetts is one of the last to background information is properly local negotiations calling for school advice from the Legal Division and states in the country to require national limited and that the information can be districts to cover the costs. field representatives. background checks for teachers and other school employees. Prior to enactment of the law, educators and child-care employees were required to be checked against the state’s Criminal Offender Record Information system, commonly known as CORI, which is limited to offenses committed within Massachusetts. The governor signed the measure on Jan. 10. The impetus for the bill 2013 was to promote safe schools and protect all children in Massachusetts. Disability Insurance Enrollment
MTA and NAACP Short-Term and Long-Term form alliance Every day is a Disability Insurance pay a percentage of your salary to ensure to promote success breeze when you you a continuous income if you become Continued from Page 11 disabled and cannot work. MTA members John L. Reed, chair of the have valuable can obtain both short-term and long-term NEAC’s Education Committee and disability coverage without having to a former member of the MTA Board benefits. answer medical questions. of Directors, was instrumental in promoting the new partnership Critical Illness Coverage pays a lump- between the two organizations. sum benefit for heart attacks, strokes “The NEAC and the MTA are both and other covered serious illnesses. excellent organizations, and they share similar goals for educating students of color,” Reed said. “As the number and percentage of these students increase in our state and across the The MTA disability open-enrollment country, we need to be aggressive in period allows you to obtain a new policy making sure they are well served by or change your current coverage. our public schools. Fairness, justice • Learn how premiums can be paid by and the health of our economy and payroll deduction. our communities depend on how • Payments are tax-free. well we as a society can address persistent achievement gaps that limit opportunities for too many children of Insurance products underwritten and services offered by color.” the subsidiaries of Unum Group. Website: unum.com. The NAACP and the MTA will be working together to seek additional community partners and to build on Meet with a benefits counselor to learn how voluntary benefits can help the initial conversations they have held on how best to work together support your financial forecast. Call 877.401.4083 or visit mtabenefits.com toward the common goal of excellent to find out when we’ll be visiting your school. public schools and education for every student.
22 Winter 2013 A salute to the coach Obituaries
The Beverly High School team was one of Kyriacoula “Coula” (Gounaris) 16 squads that made the cut to appear on Barakitis, 85, of Haverhill. Was a WGBH’s High School Quiz Show during the music teacher in Haverhill elementary Super Sunday Tournament in November. schools for more than 20 years before During the day of the competition, students retiring. Nov. 27. on the team shared a light moment with Cynthia M. Boyd, 59, of their coach, Assistant Principal Betty Taylor. Woodstock, Conn. Taught math The show, which is partially sponsored by at Shepherd Hill Regional High the MTA, began airing Feb. 10. For more School in Dudley and had served as information on upcoming shows, visit the coordinator of the Mathematics www.wgbh.org/quizshow. Department since 1977. Coached the
Photo courtesy of WGBH math team and the “High School Quiz Show” team. Jan. 6. Ralph Carrozza, Jr., 61, of Salem, N.H., formerly of Wilmington and Revere. Taught masonry at Shawsheen Valley Technical High School. Oct. 30. We hope your Valentine’s Day Edith F. Fleming, 85, of Grafton. Was an elementary school teacher in was full of jewelry, chocolates Douglas for over 40 years. Dec. 27. Dr. Merrill Harvey Goldwyn, 81, of Cambridge. Was an English and flowers from your loved professor at Worcester State College for 30 years before retiring in 1998. Nov. 2. ones. Make sure the gifts you Thomas J. Joyce, 89, of Clinton. Was a business teacher at Clinton High received will provide memo- School for 23 years before he retired in 1988. Dec. 25. ries for years to come. Mary R. Kloster, 62, of East Longmeadow. Was a teaching assistant at the Center School in Longmeadow Call EIA today at for 23 years before retiring in 2009. Dec. 18. 888.908.6822 Irene M. Lavin, 96, of Methuen. Was an elementary school teacher in to discuss protection options Wilmington, in Hooksett, N.H., and at the Corliss School in Methuen for 30 years before retiring in 1976. Dec. 5. for your Valentine’s Day Joseph W. LeBritton, 86, of Shrewsbury. Was a high school gifts and all of the valuables business teacher in Northbridge for 25 years. Nov. 5. in your life. Priscilla A. Lyons, 63, of Holliston. Was a former director of the MTA Higher Education Division. Dec. 30. Protection options for all of Phyllis V. McLaughlin, 89, of Easton. Was an elementary school your needs: teacher in Randolph and Avon, once named Teacher of the Year in Norfolk County. Oct. 25. • Scheduled jewelry Ellen A. Moilanen, 92, of Westerly, R.I. Taught second grade in • Auto and home insurance Agawam for 24 years before retiring in 1985. Nov. 19. • Toys and more Dorothy S. “Dot” O’Connor, 84, of Melrose. Was an elementary school Endorsed Program teacher in Lexington before retiring in 1981. Oct. 26. Rita Fitzgerald Skinner, 97, of Underwritten by Citizens Insurance Company of America and The Hanover Insurance Company, companies of The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. EIA is a member of The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. Product availability, services and discounts vary by state. 440 Lincoln Street, Worcester, MA 01653 Pembroke. Was an educator in Arlington 112-3447 (1/13) for more than 35 years. Also taught in Chelsea and Somerville. Jan. 1. 112-3447 EIA Valentine Ad.indd 1 2/1/13 3:55 PM Winter 2013 23 MTA Benefits Exciting new travel packages for members
xciting new discounted travel packages to Peru, Costa Rica and Belize were announced E recently by the MTA Vacation Center and its new travel partner, Quest Travel Adventures. In-depth, culturally enriching itineraries include expertly guided small-group sightseeing trips, meals, accommodations, on-tour transportation*, luggage handling, hotel taxes and service charges, plus the peace of mind of toll-free 24/7 emergency assistance. And, because you belong to MTA, you’ll save $300 per couple with your exclusive member discount. Join fellow MTA members on one of these exciting new eight- or nine-day tours departing on select dates throughout 2013 (details are available at www.QuestTravelAdventures.com/special-mta- journeys). Choose to explore Peru and discover legendary Machu Picchu. Visit Costa Rica and encounter volcanoes, tree frogs and toucans. Immerse yourself in Belize and uncover the mysteries of the ancient Mayan world. Highlights of Costa Rica — eight days starting at $1,899. Venture from the Caribbean to the Pacific as expert guides make this diverse Costa Rican vacation truly fun and rewarding. A canal safari along the pristine waterways of Tortuguero National Park reveals a stunning variety of tropical flora and fauna. You’ll also enjoy splendid volcano views from the relaxing mineral springs during your Arenal resort stay. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact Quest Travel Adventures at 800.693.1815 or e-mail life. Soar over the lush rainforest canopy on a zip Cuzco and overnight at Machu Picchu allow you [email protected] for a detailed line adventure and explore crystalline caverns by to experience the best of Peru, including sunrise at day-by-day itinerary of the trips that interest you. headlamp along an underground river. Encounter the the Lost City. Discover the vibrant modern spirit You can also find more information by visiting www. mysterious Mayan world at the impressive ruins of and ancient ways of the highlands, embodied in the QuestTravelAdventures.com/special-mta-journeys. Xunantunich and in Cahal Pech, a celebrated six-acre residents of Cuyuni. Spend time in their homes and Belize Grand Discovery — eight days starting site filled with ancient temples and plazas. fields as you gain deep insight into a lifestyle that has at $2,399. This Belize vacation features rainforest Peru Explorer — nine days starting at $2,499. changed little since the days of the Inca. adventures, exploration into the Mayan world and Peru is the land of mist-shrouded ruins, snow-capped snorkeling at Ambergris Caye and Mexico Rocks, peaks, verdant valleys, remote mountainous villages *While local transfers and internal flights are famed among marine enthusiasts for its diverse sea and dense tropical jungles. An extended stay in included, international airfare is additional.
Program advantages for MTA members include: ‘It is a great opportunity to save money on propane Propane at a big MTA discount and get exceptional service.’ Average savings of 30 to 50 cents per gallon. – Lifetime MTA member Phil Flaherty The elimination of tank-rental or line-testing fees. ropane is becoming a hot commodity. According company representative was very professional in to the National Propane Gas Association, the fuel Automatic delivery and low delivery fees. removing the old tank and installing the new one. This is helping Americans shrink their carbon footprint conveyed to me that the company was safety-conscious P Top-rated local propane suppliers. by providing a “green” solution with its clean, cost- and reliable, a first-class operation.” First-year membership fee of only $15 — a $10 savings. effective, efficient and reliable properties. Flaherty is also pleased with the lower costs. Thirty-day payment terms, with budget plans available. More than 14 million families in the country use “I no longer have delivery fees and tank-rental costs, propane for furnaces, water heaters, cooktops, outdoor which could be up to $200 a year,” he said. “Plus I pay High praise from an MTA member grills, fireplaces, generators and other fuel-driven 50 cents a gallon less, which generates another $140 or products. Dissatisfied with the expense and service from his more in yearly savings.” existing propane provider, lifetime MTA member Phil MTA members who use propane can save as much Flaherty, former president of the Westwood Flaherty switched to Propane USA last year. as $400 a year through Propane USA, partner in the Education Association and currently assistant director propane discount program offered through MTA Benefits. “I am very impressed with the program,” said of the Massachusetts Secondary School Administrators’ In addition to significant cost savings, Propane USA has Flaherty. “First of all, the local propane supplier delivered Association, encourages MTA members who use eliminated all fees typically charged by propane providers. the fuel in an immaculate new truck. In addition, the propane to take advantage of Propane USA.
24 Winter 2013 Classifieds
BOOK SALE experienced applicants to be banquet servers. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT EUROPE — July 24-Aug. 4: Munich, Prague, Positions are available April through November Vienna, Salzburg and Amsterdam with round-trip SATURDAY, APRIL 27 — 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. or mid-June through Labor Day. Starting rate is GRADUATE PROFESSIONAL airfare; 12 nights, four-star hotels, meals, tours, More than 30,000 fiction and nonfiction books, $17/hr. This is an ideal summer position for a DEVELOPMENT CERTIFICATE IN K-12 transport and more. $2,979 per person, double including an extensive collection of children’s teacher. Contact Dawn Atsalis at 508.432.3595 or ONLINE TEACHING — Moodle-based occupancy. E-mail [email protected]. books in good to excellent condition! Add to [email protected]. program for teachers. Total of 12 graduate credits. Always the best trips with the lowest prices. your classroom library at very low cost. Visit Completely online. Developer-enhance www.norfolkbooksale.com. ALWAYS HERE HOME CARE, INC. — your Moodle experience. Offered by The TRAVEL/STUDY Become a companion to seniors and provide a Learning Curve Consortium in partnership CURRICULUM ENRICHMENT much-needed service to your community! Care with Framingham State University. Visit SEMINAR: EDUCATION IN IRELAND — Six for a senior in the Boston, MetroWest, South http://tlcmoodle.imgsoftware.com or e-mail graduate credits. July 4-27. National University DESKTOP-SIZE ACTIVITY MAPS! LARGE Shore or Cape Cod area. We offer flexible hours, [email protected]. of Ireland, Galway. Study aspects of the Irish HANDS-ON SIZE: 16”x20.” Helping support competitive pay and meaningful work. For more education system and the history, literature and Massachusetts social studies curriculum for information, call Always Here Home Care, Inc., at CIVIL WAR TEACHER INSTITUTE — Join culture of Ireland. Write Barney Keenan, NUI more than 22 years with over 80 maps and a 617.933.8884. the Civil War Trust for the 2012-2013 Teacher coordinator, 127 Glen Road, Gorham, N.H. 03581; wide range of topics. Students complete the Institute Series. Free for all K-12 educators. call 603.466.2972; or e-mail [email protected]. The maps and learn by doing! Call MAPS FOR THE NEED ADDITIONAL INCOME? LOVE TO Travel scholarships available with special Trip of a Lifetime! CLASSROOM toll-free at 888.876.6277 or visit ENTERTAIN AND MAKE NEW FRIENDS? scholarship for Mass. teachers. Regional www.mapsfortheclassroom.com. Provide room, board, friendship and tutoring for Institute: April 20-21, Petersburg, Va.; National VACATION RENTALS a foreign student of English in your own New Institute: July 25-28, Gettysburg, Pa. Visit us at DAY CARE England home (within three hours of Boston). www.civilwar.org/teacherinstitute. CAPE COD, OCEAN EDGE RESORT, Pay $550-plus per week. Please review details BREWSTER — Perfect vacation resort setting. TEACHER’S SPECIAL — Kinderkidz-usa.com at http://www.HLI-HostFamilies-Boston.com. 34th CAPE COD INSTITUTE — June 17-Aug. Spacious, nicely appointed villa; spiral staircase to in Watertown is offering day care for school E-mail: [email protected]. 23. Twenty-eight week-long courses taught by large loft; two baths, sleeps six. Excellent location schedule only. Limited-time discount offered; master teachers. Call: 888-394-9293, e-mail within resort. Steps from indoor/outdoor pools, excellent references; EEC-licensed care; healthy FIELD TRIPS [email protected] or visit www.cape.org. tennis. Nearby beaches, shopping, bike trails and meals offered; age-appropriate activities; daily more. Owned/offered by MTA member, summer excursions to local libraries and more. Please call LOOKING FOR A “SCOOPER” YEAR-END GEORGE McCLOSKEY — July 15-19. Learning weekly, off-season weeks or weekends. Call Rachel at 617.592.6643. FIELD TRIP? Participate in the Jimmy Fund Disabilities in Children: Assessment/Intervention 413.594.4056 or e-mail [email protected]. Scooper Bowl® Scooper Schools program. Fund- — www.cape.org. EMPLOYMENT raise for the Jimmy Fund and earn free admission CAPE COD: WEST YARMOUTH — Colonial to the Scooper Bowl June 4-6! For more KAREN LEVINE — July 22-26. Autism Acres Resort on Nantucket Sound. Saturdays, WYCHMERE BEACH CLUB IN HARWICH information, visit JimmyFund.org/scooper-schools Spectrum Disorders: A Humanistic Perspective on 8/3-8/10, 8/10-8/17. Call for price and details: PORT seeks personable, service-oriented, or e-mail [email protected]. Diagnosis and Intervention — www.cape.org. 781.335.6849.
Paid Advertisement GEORGE McCLOSKEY — July 29-Aug. 1. EASTHAM, OUTER CAPE — Immaculate Executive Function Difficulties in Children: three-bedroom, two-bath cottage with panoramic Assessment/Intervention — www.cape.org. sunset view overlooking a kettle pond’s sandy beach. Enjoy cabana shower, granite Earn a graduate degree EDWARD HALLOWELL — Aug. 12-16. A kitchen, dishwasher, Casablanca fans, wicker, Strength-Based Approach to ADHD across the lovingly landscaped deck, semi-private pool, Life Span — www.cape.org. tennis court and washer/dryer. Near National that works for you. Seashore, rail trail and Provincetown. Visit TRAVEL http://www.easthampinecottage.com, e-mail [email protected] or call 508.616.9838. APRIL VACATION WEEK — 4/12-20: Taormina, Sicily/Sorrento & Rome/Ireland (complete PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND, CANADA: Fully package with car rental, bed & breakfast or air equipped two-story cottage on four private acres. only). 4/13-21: Florence, Venice, Rome/London Sleeps six. Two full bathrooms. Living room WORCESTER.EDU/GRADUATE | [email protected] | 508.929.8127 & Countryside/Paris & Countryside featuring with open fireplace. Satellite TV. Front and back Normandy, Brittany & Chateau Country/Emilia decks. Superb ocean and sunset views. Cycling, Romagna. All/most meals, full sightseeing, golf and safe, warm swimming. Easy beach fully escorted, first-class hotels, RT flights. access. Available June through September. U.S. Group/leader specials. Call Durgan Travel at $975 weekly. Please call 661.860.6931 or e-mail 781.438.2224, visit www.durgantravel.com or [email protected]. e-mail [email protected]. CAPE COD: ONSET — “Charming” Victorian, YEAR-ROUND TRAVEL — Durgan Travel, four bedrooms, 1.5 baths. Enjoy morning coffee an award-winning tour operator, has a full on three-sided wraparound porch filled w/wicker schedule of all/mostly inclusive tours rockers and geraniums. Steps away from long through 2013, including jet tours and white-sand saltwater beach: swimming/kayaking. cruises (domestic and international). We have Bonuses: second-floor deck for happy hour the highest-value, best-priced tours in the sunsets; hot outside shower; grill; kayak; “child industry! Call Durgan Travel at 781.438.2224, safe” rear yard/garden. July/Aug. $1,000/wk. Call visit www.durgantravel.com or e-mail 617.669.9380 or e-mail [email protected]. [email protected]. DEER ISLE, MAINE — Spacious country PLEASE ALLOW US TO BE OF TRAVEL house near the sea, 1.5 acres, sleeps six. Close SERVICE — Individual/small groups: We arrange to beach and boat landing. Sparkling clean, three vacations with the best rates and service on jet bedrooms, two baths, hardwood floors, fieldstone or cruise vacations. Groups: absolutely highest fireplace, fully equipped kitchen, Internet, three value, lowest price and flexible group leader decks, picnic table, grill, many extras. Dogs remuneration. Call Durgan Travel, Stoneham, at by arrangement. $1,050-$1,250/week. Details: 781.438.2224; visit www.durgantravel.com; or www.hardyshillhouse.net. Call 617.957.8802 or e-mail [email protected]. e-mail [email protected]. Winter 2013 25 WSU Grad ad.indd 1 8/2/12 1:45 AM NEW LOW RATES As AN educAtor, you Need to be No-NoNseNse. We thiNk your iNsurANce compANy does too.
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26 Winter 2013 When you are considering options for auto or home insurance, a simple apples-to-apples comparison might not reflect all of your unique needs.
Educators Insurance Agency (EIA) has served the education community for more than 15 years. The exclusive benefits we provide to MTA members are unmatched. We truly understand your needs, and with convenient hours to fit your schedule and lifestyle, we make it easy for you to compare options. Endorsed Program Find out more about the benefits EIA can offer you:
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Winter 2013 27 v i s i t u s at : Volume 43, No. 3 Winter 2013 massteacher . o r g Official Publication of the Massachusetts Teachers Association
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Coalition calls for revenue to fund key services
By Laura Barrett
he MTA has been working with the Campaign for Our Communities for several years in T advocating for more revenue — but this year state lawmakers are taking the call more seriously because Governor Deval Patrick has joined the fray by proposing significant tax increases to fund education, transportation and infrastructure needs. The Campaign for Our Communities is a statewide coalition of more than 120 organizations that support broad-based tax increases to ensure that Massachusetts continues to be a great place to live, work and raise a family. The campaign’s revenue bill, “An Act to Invest in Our Communities,” is co-sponsored by Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz (D-Boston) and Representative James O’Day (D-West Boylston). Like the governor’s proposal, the coalition’s plan would increase income tax rates but also raise personal exemptions to reduce the impact on low- and middle-income families. Most of the Photo by Laura Barrett approximately $2 billion a year in revenue raised Jackie Lawrence, president of the Somerville Teachers Association, spoke at the State House press would come from the wealthiest taxpayers. conference about how communities and the economy benefit when students are well educated. The bill was unveiled at a State House news conference on Jan. 15. The MTA is engaging in Sapphire Castillo, a Bristol Community College See Page 12 for coverage of the grassroots organizing, legislative lobbying and public student from New Bedford, is focused on making governor’s budget proposal and education to support the campaign. public higher education accessible. MTA’s legislative priorities. The governor’s bill differs from the campaign’s “Lack of state revenue is constantly driving up measure in some particulars, but they both call for the cost of attending a community college, making it progressive tax reforms — with most new revenue recession. Without new revenues, the next round of more and more unaffordable,” Castillo said. “There coming from the income tax — to fund services cuts will threaten the state’s future economic health.” is a real need for economic growth in Southeastern that benefit everyone. In education, the governor is Mary Whelan-True, a social studies teacher at Massachusetts, and an educated work force lays the proposing substantial increases in spending on early Doherty Memorial High School in Worcester, said foundation for economic success.” childhood education, K-12 schools and public higher more revenue is critical for many reasons, including Toner noted, “When districts tell you they can’t education. the need to improve learning conditions for students. pay to have a school wired for today’s Internet needs “We are very much on the same page as the “Some of our newer buildings are well or when college students can’t afford the cost of governor,” said MTA President Paul Toner. “Our job equipped, but some of our older schools are public higher education, you know we are hurting now is to activate members to inform one another overcrowded and don’t have the wiring they need to the core of what makes Massachusetts great. We and the public about how we all would benefit from support modern technology,” she said. “The Internet have the highest-performing students in the country, new investments in education and our communities. just shuts down. Teachers have to be cautious about but we know we could do so much more if we had “As MTA members know too well, the state and making plans to incorporate technology into a lesson. adequate resources.” municipalities have already squeezed substantial “A lot of teachers are spending their own money savings out of their budgets,” Toner continued. on routers and other equipment to support their For more information, visit www.massteacher.org “Members have made sacrifices during this teaching,” Whelan-True added. and www.ourcommunities.org.
28 Winter 2013 The VOLUME 25 / NUMBER 2 / WINTER 2013 MTA Advantage
The MTA Advantage is a publication of MTA Benefits, a subsidiary of the Massachusetts Teachers Association Making sure you get the best THE MTAB ENDORSEMENT MEANS PROGRAMS YOU CAN TRUST AND SAVINGS YOU CAN COUNT ON
or centuries, the title “by appointment How members benefit to her Majesty the Queen” has been MTAB’s 43 years of evaluation experience Fconferred on merchants whose goods and expertise have made it one of the leading are favored by the British royal family. Since educational member benefit corporations in 1909, Good Housekeeping has issued its own the country. Because of MTAB’s efforts, “seal of approval” to companies and products members are able to select programs they that meet its high standards. More recently, can trust in areas such as insurance and celebrity recognition of products has come financial services and enjoy discounts offered into vogue. only to MTA members. In addition, MTAB’s Discount Directory lists more than 1,000 MTA Benefits takes its program endorsement places and products – from museums and process very seriously. Programs offered I’ve been a member of the music venues to jewelry and computers – ‘ through companies such as MetLife, Unum, that meet its savings requirements. MTA for 12 years and have SBLI and Hanover Insurance “go through a rigorous selection process before they become “Members may also receive assistance saved hundreds of dollars a MTAB-endorsed,” said Maryann Robinson, and information from the MTAB member year by taking advantage president of MTA Benefits. “They must meet benefits team,” said Robinson. “MTAB staff our stringent criteria for financial stability are dedicated to providing members with of the discounts offered by and strong industry ratings – and they must the most personalized service possible.” be able to deliver superior programs designed businesses listed in the MTA exclusively for our members. In addition, they For more information on MTAB Benefits & Discount Directory. must offer significant savings and attentive programs and services, visit service. The selection process can take as long As a member, you can save as two years.” www.mtabenefits.com. the equivalent of your dues and more by shopping at the The Benefits & Discount Directory multitude of businesses that provides more than 1,000 ways participate in MTAB programs. Many of the small businesses for MTA members to save and services listed are owned Save up to thousands of dollars every year with by active or retired MTA your Benefits & Discount Directory. Whether members. It’s a wonderful you’re looking to catch a show at a local theater, feeling knowing that I can tour one of the many museums in New England, purchase items I need and save on your home heating oil or travel to help out a colleague at the hundreds of destinations worldwide, there same time.’ is something for everyone! For a full list of Ryan Hoyt, co-president of the Waltham Educators Association and a member of benefits and discounts, refer to your printed the MTAB Board of Directors directory or visit www.mtabenefits.com. Museum Hopping
rt museums enlighten and inspire, showing us treasures from throughout Athe world, priceless art and artifacts from ancient times to today. In Boston and on the North Shore, you can see: • Yin Yu Tang, a 200-year-old Chinese house brought to America and reassembled at the Peabody Essex Museum. Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
• A replica of a 15th-century Venetian palace, you will find Japanese, Chinese, Korean and 15th-century Venetian palace with three built to house the Isabella Stewart Gardner Indian items, along with one of the nation’s stories of galleries surrounding a flower-filled Museum, with an interior courtyard of year- finest collections of Asian Export Art and courtyard, the museum provides a memorable round greenery. 19th-century Asian photography. The museum backdrop. The museum’s newest wing presents • “The Daughters of Edward Darley Boit’’ presents the earliest collections of Native exhibits of contemporary art. The Gardner (1882), a renowned John Singer Sargent American and Oceanic art in the nation. The also holds musical and social events through- painting admired for its sophistication and 200-year-old Yin Yu Tang house, brought out the year in the galleries and courtyard. imaginative composition, at the Museum of from China and reassembled at the museum, MTA members receive two-for-one admission. Fine Arts. demonstrates what everyday life was like for the wealthy extended Huang family. MTA Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. The MFA’s Explore the great art museums of Massachusetts members receive free admission to the encyclopedic collection comprises some of – including the following three – at no cost museum and house. the most rare and important artistic treasures or at a reduced admission price with your in the world. Its heralded new Art of the MTA card. The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Americas wing showcases art of the United Boston. The museum’s collection contains States from Colonial through modern times, Peabody Essex Museum, Salem. Founded more than 2,500 paintings, sculptures, with priceless objects such as Paul Revere’s in 1799 by sea captains who brought back tapestries, furnishings, manuscripts, rare “Sons of Liberty Bowl” as well as works by Asian art and crafts from their journeys, the books and decorative arts. Galleries house Georgia O’Keeffe, Stuart Davis and other Peabody Essex Museum connects international works by some of the most recognized artists lauded American artists. More than 83,000 art with the culture in which it was made. in the world, including Titian, Rembrandt, works of art from the ancient world are on Ranking among the 25 largest art museums Michelangelo, Raphael, Botticelli, Manet, display, representing cultures such as those of in the nation, the Peabody Essex is a Degas, Whistler and Sargent. Housed Egypt, Nubia, Greece, Italy and Cyprus. They major collector of Asian art. On display in a stunning building that resembles a include the “Head of Aphrodite’’ and other important pieces. The Art of Europe collection features masterpieces by celebrated Dutch, English, French, Italian and Spanish painters, with great depth in 19th-century French works by Barbizon, Impressionist and post-Impressionist artists. The MFA holds one of the largest collections outside of Paris of works by Claude Monet, along with the world’s most extensive collection of paintings and pastels by Jean-François Millet. The Art of Asia, Oceania, and Africa collection covers the creative achievements of more than half of the world’s population over the course of six millennia. The Contemporary Art collection emphasizes painting, but also includes significant examples of sculpture, photography and new media. Photography by Robert Mapplethorpe and pieces by Andy Warhol are among the works in the extensive collection. Watch for frequent blockbuster exhibitions. MTA members receive a $2 discount on general admission. Courtyard, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston
Editor: Elizabeth A. Bejoian 20 Ashburton Place, Boston, MA 02108 No dues dollars are The MTA Advantage is published three times a year as Tel: 800.336.0990 • Fax: 617.557.6687 ever used to market MTA a supplement to MTA Today by MTA Benefits, Inc. Website: www.mtabenefits.com Benefits programs.
2 The ENTICINGIDEAS Tip Sheet for Spring Entertain your family at an all-inclusive resort The new Hilton Puerto Vallarta provides everything you want for the perfect vacation: an ocean-front setting, grand terraces, pools, magnificent views of mountains and Banderas Bay, elegant accommodations, fine and casual dining, everyday activities and entertainment, water sports and much more. You’ll treasure your time at this luxury hotel set in a world-famous Mexican resort destination. Book through the MTA Vacation Center and receive special MTA deals The prickly pear and discounts at the Hilton Puerto Vallarta or hundreds of other vacation sites around the world. cactus blooms in the Arizona desert. Photo courtesy of National Park Service Escape to an exotic Arizona landscape With its flowering cacti, lush green ground- cover and brilliant sunsets, the Arizona desert is spectacular in the spring. Head for Tucson, where you’ll find the Tucson Botanical Gardens, with 15 acres of specialty plantings, including wildflowers, Native American crops, cacti and other desert flora and fauna. Fifteen miles away, along the Old Spanish Trail, is Saguaro National Park, which features sweep- ing desert landscapes set against purple moun- tains. Other unique places to see include Colossal Cave Mountain Park, Kartchner Caverns State Park and Catalina State Park. Other Tucson attractions are the historic Experience amazing Explore Cape Cod Mission San Xavier del Bac, the famed Gallery in the Sun, featuring the works of Ted sea creatures in the off-season DeGrazia, and turn-of-the-century Mexican See the Cape without the crowds, serene and neighborhoods. Stay at Comfort Suites Sabino uncluttered. Walk along what feels like your Canyon or any other Choice Hotel and get a own private beach. Dine in trendy restaurants 15 percent MTA discount. At the Aquarium without a reservation. Visit art galleries and of the Pacific in Long gift boutiques at your leisure. Play golf or Beach, Calif., you’ll find go boating year-round. See the vast spring WHERE TO GET INFORMATION more than 11,000 sea creatures on view in gardens, ride an antique carousel and visit a wide variety of exhibits. Get up close to the art museum at the Heritage Museums You can find all the places on the Tip Sheet penguins in a crawl-in space that lets you into & Gardens (free to MTA members). Stay by visiting www.mtabenefits.com. their world. The Shark Lagoon features more at any Wyndham Hotel Group lodging than 150 sharks, some of which you can on the Cape and save up to 20 percent as Find Heritage Museums & Gardens under reach out and touch as they glide through an MTA member. “Discounts,” then “Discount Directory.” shallow pools. You can see others through a viewing window, coming nose to nose with For Choice Hotels® International and these graceful but fierce predators. At the Wyndham Hotel Group, look under Whales exhibit, you can hear the sounds of “All Benefits,” then “Hotel Discounts.” humpback, sperm, gray, blue, beaked and For the Hilton Puerto Vallarta, go to Northern right whales. Walk along a rocky “Travel & Vacations,” then “MTA coastline among barnacle-encrusted pilings Vacation Center.” For the Aquarium and enjoy ocean and inland vistas. Look of the Pacific, look under “All Benefits,” in the water and watch sea otters as they then “Theme Parks.” swim and interact among kelp and fish. The And when you travel, be sure to take Aquarium of the Pacific is just one theme your MTA credit card with you. park where MTA members receive a discount.
For information on all deals and discounts, look through your Benefits & Discount Directory or visit www.mtabenefits.com.
3 MTAB Programs
NEW DENTAL OPTIONS FROM Now here’s something to smile about!
Each year, studies show links between oral health and overall health. That’s why staying on top of your dental care is so important. Having the right dental insurance can minimize costs for you and your family. Active MTA members now have access to three new dental plan options from MetLife, each with the following enhancements: • Graduating maximums, which increase your annual benefit over three years • Orthodontia and implant coverage • Geographical rates, which make premium payments more competitive • Rates for individual, individual plus spouse/children and families • Access to your online account through “My Benefits”
For additional information, visit www.mtabenefits.com and click on “Dental Insurance” or contact MTA Benefits at 800.336.0990.
Get the disability insurance coverage you need during MTA’s OneOne greatgreat reasonreason toto choosechoose thethe MMTATA DisabilityDisability PlanPlan A 45-year-old45-yyeear-olldd membermember withwwiiittthh a $60,000$600,,000 salaryssaallaarryy couldccooulldd savesavvee $1,887*$1,88877* perpeerr yearyyeeeaar open-enrollment period ZLWKWKH 07$ GLVDELOLW\ SOSODQODQ RYHU DQ LQGLYLGXDLQGLYLGXDOO IXOO\ XQGHUZULWWHQ SSODQ
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The 2013 disability open-enrollment period offers a • ConvenientConvenient bankbankddraftrafftt ooptionption iiff ththereere iiss nnoo ppayrollayroll sslotlot • GuaranteeGuaranteeG iissuessue eeachach yyearear bank-draft option for premium deductions, making it • BBenefitenefit notnot offsetoffffset byby sicksick leaveleave oror sicksick bankbank easier than ever for a district to offer this important • 660%0% bbenefitenefit ppaymentayment • BBenefitenefit nnotot tataxedxed plan to its educators. Members in participating districts • TThehe MTAMTA planplan isis oneone ofo ftheth emostmos competitivelyt competitive lpricedy price groupd grou disabilityp disabil iprogramsty program s fforor ththee eeducationducation ccommunityommunity iinn MMassachusettsassachusettss may enroll from February through May. Coverage is guaranteed, and no medical questions are asked. Open enrollment is on now The program is extremely affordable and considered ParticipatingParticipating aandnd nnewew ddistrictsistricts – dodon’tn’t mmississ oout!ut! to be one of the best plans available to the education ForFor mmoreore iinformationnffoormation oorr ttoo sschedulechedule eenrollmentnrollment mmeetingseetings iinn yyourour ddistrict,istrict, ccontactontact community. Watch for an MTA enrollment counselor 'LDQD MMathesonatheson atat 888.636.0112,888.636.0112, ext.ext. 214214, RU [email protected]@enrroolllllmmentcompanyy..com. 3HDUVRQ*UDQH * aatt 888.636.0112,888.636.0112, ext.ext. 210210, RU [email protected][email protected].
in your school. To learn more, call 774.551.0013, ReceiveReceive a $20$20 giftgifftt cardcard whenwhen youyou callcall toto scheduleschedule youryour district’sdistrict’s enrollment.enrollment. ext.104, or visit www.mtabenefits.com. *The*The aactualctual ssavingsavings fforor aann iindividualndividual wwillill vvaryary ggreatlyreatly ddependingepending oonn tthehe aagege aandnd ssalaryalary ooff tthehe pparticipant.articipant.
All program and pricing information was current at the time of publication (February 2013) and is subject to change without notice. To find out what may have changed, please call MTA Benefits at 800.336.0990. 4