A publication of the Massachusetts Teachers Association Volume 43, No. 2/Fall 2012

MTAMTA mmeemmbersbers gogo aallll ououtt forfor pro-educpro-educaattionion ccaandidndidaatteses All members are invited into EMAC’s ‘big tent’

By Laura Barrett Hotel & Conference met longtime activist Susan Baker, who quickly Center. To register, go to recruited her for EMAC. hristine Boseman, the new chair of the massteacher.org/emac. “I had a lot of challenges to overcome in Ethnic Minority Affairs Committee, is Boseman, who works my life,” Boseman said. “I really credit MTA C inviting all interested MTA members into in customer service at with helping me a lot.” She encourages others to EMAC’s “big tent.” UMass Boston, said that participate in the conference to meet colleagues who “When you think about it,” she said, “we’re her involvement with her may share similar backgrounds and interests and as a all ethnic minorities. Very few people are of just chapter — the Classified way to become more involved in the union. one race. We are human beings first with diverse Staff Union — and with Registration begins at 5 p.m. on Nov. 30, and backgrounds and histories.” the MTA has helped her the evening includes dinner and a keynote address by That is reflected in the theme of this year’s develop her confidence Christine Boseman former NEA President Reg Weaver. Weaver is known EMAC conference: “Celebrating Our Diverse and leadership abilities. for his lively and passionate presentations. With the Cultural Backgrounds.” The event will run It began when she attended MTA’s Summer conference taking place just a few weeks after the from Nov. 30 to Dec. 1 at the Sheraton Framingham Conference at Williams College in 2006. There she Please turn to EMAC/Page 21

On the cover in this issue MTA’s Mission Statement MTA members throughout the  Recognition called ‘a validation of the work we all do’ 3 The Massachusetts Teachers Association is Commonwealth are doing all they  Editorial 4 a member-driven organization, governed can to support pro-public-education  Gathering features call to action 5 by democratic principles, that accepts candidates as the Nov. 6 election  Members go all out for pro-education candidates 6 and supports the interdependence of draws near. Grassroots activity  DNC trip highlights ‘enormous’ stakes 8 professionalism and unionism. The MTA involves members of all types promotes the use of its members’ collective  Website provides information on PARCC system 9 — teachers, education support power to advance their professional and  Reading proficiency bill is signed by governor 9 professionals, higher education economic interests. The MTA is committed faculty and staff and others. Many  Agenda is set for conference for new teachers 10 to human and civil rights and advocates for of them are  Districts reach evaluation agreements 11 quality public education in an environment  History honoree stresses responsible citizenship 13 in which lifelong learning and innovation pictured on  ‘School Talk’ hits quarter-century mark 14 flourish. the cover and  MTA nomination papers available 17 elsewhere in  Nomination form 18 this edition of  NEA RA delegates to be elected by mail 19 MTA President MTA Today as  Regional ethnic minority delegates to be chosen 19 Paul Toner they engage  Bylaws and Rules Committee accepting proposals 19 MTA Vice President in activities  Members invited to submit proposed resolutions 20 Tim Sullivan focused on the  Statewide retired delegates to be elected 20 Executive Director-Treasurer presidential race, the effort to elect  Four seats are open on Retired Members Committee 20 Ann Clarke Elizabeth Warren to the U.S. Senate  Regional retirement consultations available 22 Communications Director/Editor and contests for congressional and  Obituaries 23 James Sacks legislative seats. For campaign  MTAB offers tips on winter readiness 24 Staff Assistant coverage and commentary, please  Capturing the world in a panoramic view 24 Janice Morrissey see pages 4, 6, 7 and 8 and the

 Classifieds 25 Publisher MTA’s 2012 Election Guide, which is  Team efforts boost student achievement 28 Ann Clarke included at the center of this issue. Members are also urged to visit This issue of MTA Today also features the association’s www.massteacher.org/vote and guide to the 2012 election, which will be held on Tuesday, www.rethinkbrown.com.

November 6, and the Fall edition of the MTA Advantage Cover design by Alison Donato

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. “Teachers are heroes, not villains, and it’s time to stop demonizing The Massachusetts Teachers Association Periodicals postage rates paid at Boston, 20 Ashburton Place, Boston, MA 02108 MA, and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: them. It has become fashionable to blame all of society’s manifold 800.392.6175 or 617.878.8000 Send address changes to: MTA Today, 20 FAX: 617.742.7046 Ashburton Place, Boston, MA 02108. sins and wickedness on ‘teachers unions,’ as if it were possible to www.massteacher.org Copyright ©2012 by the Massachusetts separate these supposedly evil organizations from the dedicated Teachers Association. All material in this public servants who belong to them. News flash: Collective periodical may be reproduced by teachers for distribution to students or by affiliate bargaining is not the problem, and taking that right away from associations for their own publications. Unless expressly stated, acceptance of teachers will not fix the schools.” advertising does not necessarily imply endorsement of the product by MTA or MTA — Excerpt from a column by Eugene Robinson on Benefits. September 17 in The Washington Post

2 Fall 2012 Teacher of the Year calls recognition ‘a validation of the work we all do’

By Jerry Spindel

f there are born teachers, as there are born athletes, then Kathleen M. Turner, the 2013 I Massachusetts Teacher of the Year, is a shining example. At a State House ceremony not long ago honoring her for her work as a French teacher at Sharon High School, she declared, “I did not become a teacher; I am a teacher!” Turner’s teaching started early, during her childhood in Northbridge. “I was always trying to find someone to teach something to,” she told MTA Today. At Northbridge High School, she tutored her peers in a variety of subjects. By her senior year, her teachers were letting her teach an eighth-grade class in Latin for part of the year. Turner attended Harvard University, where she majored in French and completed the Undergraduate Teacher Education Program. She expressed her dismay at comments she’d received, like “What? You went to Harvard ... and became a teacher?” Or: “A Photo by Jerry Spindel teacher? But you could have done anything!” Teacher of the Year Kathleen Turner’s goal is to “engage students every minute of every day.” “So yes, I suppose I could have done any number of things,” Turner told the State House of the subjunctive to a cake and, she recalled, There is no busy-work in Turner’s audience on June 18, “but in my mind what I chose “totally unprovoked, a girl this year came in with classroom. “Reading and writing they to do — and what many of you chose to do — is the a cake she’d made with each layer labeled with a can do at home,” she said. “I want foundation on which society is built.” grammatical rule. It was awesome!” Turner’s passion for teaching expresses itself in them to do in class what they can’t Of course, not all students are so adept at the her goal to “engage students every minute of every do without a French teacher.” subject — or at baking. Concerning those who need day.” How she accomplishes this largely explains help, Turner said, “I work with them before school. I why she is the Teacher of the Year. “For an hour a day in French class, it’s the same stay after school. I sit down with them one-on-one and process, constant input. ‘Are you going to understand try to come up with individual study strategies. If I Constant input everything I say?’ No. ‘Are you going to speak to me have to, I call parents and try to get them on board.” “We only speak French in class,” Turner in whole paragraphs today?’ No.” explained. “I think it’s important for students to have There is no busy-work in Turner’s classroom. ‘We are a team’ that constant input. From day one they’re hearing “Reading and writing they can do at home,” she Turner’s work is not restricted to the classroom. the language. It’s hard enough to teach the language said. “I want them to do in class what they can’t do She also takes students on trips to Paris, a program when, as soon as students leave the classroom, without a French teacher. I want them to be talking she began 18 years ago when she first came to they’re not going to hear French for 24 hours. So and communicating with me, with each other. Sharon and there was no foreign travel in any my classroom has to become the little Francophone Sometimes it’s a monologue in the language lab.” department. She has also taken seniors on two country where they’re just getting the input in In Turner’s classroom one day, students were occasions to Quebec, where she and the students French.” acting out scenes from Le Petit Prince while Turner speak only French while they enjoy everything from However, when Turner teaches French One videotaped the activity for another class. touring to dog sledding to inner-tube sliding — (“which I adore,” she says), she does something a “They read the scene, see the tape and read “Great fun!” she exclaimed. bit different. “I have them do an activity which is it again,” she said. “They’re getting that constant In the last school year, students in Turner’s class not in French for the first couple of days,” she said. reinforcement; they’re not just hearing it once. conducted their first exchange with French students “I have them ask an adult family member at home They’re getting the vocabulary in multiple modes of and teachers from Rouen. “My hope is to do an how they learned English. We have native speakers input.” exchange every other year, alternating with the Paris and non-native speakers, so the answers come back Turner also designs games to get lessons across. trip,” she said. differently.” “It’s like hiding an aspirin in a spoon of jelly,” she But Turner’s students are not the only ones to Ultimately, Turner’s goal is to get the students to said. “The students don’t think they’re learning. It’s benefit from her work. She was one of the founders discuss their own language acquisition. all about presentation.” of a new teacher orientation program in 1999 and has “You really didn’t learn your first language,” Even drudgery can become fun in Turner’s served as a building representative for the Sharon she said. “It’s wired into your brain. So I ask the classroom. Teachers Association. Her service reflects her strong students, ‘Did you come out speaking in whole “If I have something really boring to do, like belief in system-wide collegiality and teamwork. paragraphs?’ Well, no. ‘Did you talk at all? So how teaching the irregular uses of the subjunctive, I When Turner’s selection as Teacher of the did you learn?’ From people around us. We started think of the best way to get students to really be Year was announced, Sharon High School held a pep making sounds, stringing sounds together into words. excited about it,” she said. She compared the uses Please turn to ‘Respect’/Page 12 Fall 2012 3 Editorial Support candidates who support education

he longest campaign in living memory away hundreds of experienced teachers and threw is almost over. At last. We don’t know Warren is a strong supporter the schools into chaos. He also slashed spending T the outcome, but we do know we have of collective bargaining for the state’s public higher education system, made a difference. Many, many thanks to all of rights. Brown has not been ultimately leading to higher tuition and fees for you who have made calls, held signs and talked to students and reductions in full-time faculty and friends and relatives about what is at stake for our vocal on the subject, but it staff. members, our students and our communities. is important to note that his As governor, Romney traveled the country Election work is truly a team effort. Our party’s platform expressly repeatedly criticizing his own home state while Candidate Recommendation Committee has urges state legislatures to preparing to launch his first campaign for the made recommendations for both state legislative follow the lead of Wisconsin presidency. More recently, he famously wrote races and national elections. These are included Governor Scott Walker by off 47 percent of the American population — in the guide at the center of this issue of MTA including many of our low-income students, our Today and on our website, www.massteacher.org. gutting bargaining rights for friends and family members who are unemployed, Our Legislative and Political Action Teams, our public employees. It also our own parents and grandparents who collect Political Action Leaders, our Grassroots Campaign calls for a national “Right to Social Security and depend on Medicare, and our activists, our staff, our Work” law. veterans. elected leaders and our Romney supports education and labor members all have worked policies opposed by most educators: Women’s issues to put the association’s n Romney wants to take federal Title I election plan into action. Warren supports equal pay for women and funding for low-income students and IDEA While all of the races equal access to medical services, including birth funding for special needs students out of our are important, the one that control. Brown does not. He voted against the public schools to pay for vouchers that students most affects our members equal pay bill, is supported by the anti-choice could use at private and parochial schools. While throughout Massachusetts Massachusetts Citizens for Life and co-sponsored federal funding accounts for less than 10 percent is the contest for the U.S. the Blunt Amendment, which would have allowed of all school spending, it accounts on average Paul Toner employers’ health insurance policies to deny MTA President Senate. The MTA strongly for much more in our low-income districts, so recommends Elizabeth women coverage for contraception. this would be a huge loss. (Brown also supports Warren, as does the NEA. We believe she is the private school vouchers.) Health care strongest candidate on issues that affect educators n Romney wants to bar teachers’ unions and students, as well as others who call the Warren supports the federal Affordable Care from being allowed to contribute to political Commonwealth home. Act — Obamacare — which is modeled on the campaigns. That’s right. Not oil companies. Not law in our state that has led to coverage for 99.8 tobacco companies. Not insurance companies. Education funding percent of Massachusetts children. Brown does Just the unions representing teachers, education Warren, a Democrat, supports strong federal not. He would work to repeal the federal law, support professionals and higher education faculty support for public schools, higher education and thereby denying health insurance to millions of and staff. college students — paid for by a fairer tax system people across the country who have pre-existing We understand that our members vote for that asks millionaires to pay as much as their medical conditions and jeopardizing federal candidates for many reasons other than the ones secretaries. Her opponent, Republican incumbent funding for the Massachusetts law. cited here. No matter what your political stripe, Scott Brown, does not. He has backed budget we urge you to study the records and positions proposals that would make deep cuts in public l l l of both state and federal candidates, work hard schools, voted to cut Pell Grants for low-income for the candidates you believe in and vote on college students, opposed the Buffett Rule, and hile the vote for president in Tuesday, Nov. 6. acknowledged he would rather see taxes rise on Massachusetts is not in doubt — the bottom 98 percent than vote to increase taxes W with voters widely favoring a second Letters policy term for Barack Obama — we have nonetheless on the top 2 percent. For more details on Brown’s TA Today welcomes letters to the editor record, go to www.rethinkbrown.com. found ourselves in the national spotlight when Mfrom MTA members. Letters should be no asked about the record of his opponent, Mitt longer than 200 words. Each letter submitted Romney, as governor. for publication must address a topic covered in Collective bargaining MTA Today, must be signed and must include Warren is a strong supporter of collective During Romney’s brief tenure here, the the writer’s telephone number for confirmation bargaining rights. Brown has not been vocal on Commonwealth’s education spending was cut purposes. Opinions must be clearly identified the subject, but it is important to note that his by a larger percentage than funding in any other as belonging to the letter-writer. We reserve state. Middle-income “above foundation” districts the right to edit for length, clarity and style. party’s platform expressly urges state legislatures To submit a letter, mail it to MTA Today, 20 to follow the lead of Wisconsin Governor Scott were affected when their Chapter 70 money was Ashburton Place, 8th floor, Boston, MA 02108 or Walker by gutting bargaining rights for public cut by up to 20 percent. Low-income districts e-mail it to [email protected]. also felt the impact, none more than Springfield, For additional information, please refer to the employees. It also calls for a national “Right to guidelines posted on www.massteacher.org. Work” law. where Romney’s Finance Control Board drove

4 Fall 2012 Gathering features call to action

By Laura Barrett

“ ill you volunteer just three hours between now and Election Day?” That W question was posed by MTA Executive Director-Treasurer Ann Clarke to more than 200 retirees attending this year’s Retired Gathering in Marlborough on Sept. 27. It was the 11th annual Gathering. Over the years, retirees have become an increasingly important core of MTA’s political activism because they typically have the time to become involved and the experience to know how important elections are to their profession and their quality of life. “There is no better time to become involved,” said MTA Retired Members Committee Co-Chair Kathleen Roberts, who also represents her fellow members on the MTA Board. “Retirees need to lead the charge.” Roberts spoke from the podium shortly before MTA Vice President Tim Sullivan brought some levity to the event by telling a humorous story about Roberts and leading the audience in a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday” in honor of her 98th Eileen Cleary, left in photo above, and birthday. Louise Russell greeted fellow members as Richard Liston, the committee’s other co-chair they stopped by the registration table at and Roberts’ Board colleague, noted that she was one the MTA Retired Gathering, which was held of the first MTA members to participate in a member- in Marlborough in late September. Both to-member phone bank this year. The phone banks belong to the Retired Members Committee. are important to MTA’s efforts to inform members The annual event, which drew a crowd of about pro-education legislative candidates, as well as more than 200 members, featured a variety to describe the differences between Elizabeth Warren of workshops and provided a chance for and Scott Brown, who are squaring off against one retirees to network and socialize. At left, another on Nov. 6 for the Massachusetts U.S. Senate MTA Executive Committee member Mary seat that is at stake. Gilmore, left, laughed as “Honor Our Own” Later in the day, 21 retirees volunteered to make award recipient Judy Rutelonis addressed calls on behalf of MTA-recommended candidates in the crowd. Rutelonis, who taught third grade the election. in Sutton until last year, was singled out for her innovation in the classroom and her tireless work for her local association. TA Executive Committee member Mary

Gilmore introduced Judy Rutelonis, Photos by Laura Barrett M this year’s MTA Retired “Honor Our Own” award recipient. Rutelonis retired this past She helped to raise funds to benefit the scholarship into Retirement and Retiree Involvement in the MTA year from teaching third grade in Sutton. Gilmore fund and was also the initiator of the Community LPAT Program. explained why she was singled out for the award. Fund, which provides assistance with food, heat and This year, the retirees demonstrated their “She was committed to ‘staying fresh’ in other necessities to needy families.” generosity by contributing school supplies that will her classroom,” said Gilmore. “She incorporated be donated to a school in Pittsfield, where teachers innovative ideas in her classroom until her ullivan spoke about MTA’s role on important had asked for support. Members also raised over retirement. boards and commissions. He noted, in $1,300 in a Giveaway to benefit VOTE, MTA’s “Always keeping in mind the best interests of S particular, that former MTA President Anne campaign contribution fund. her colleagues, our recipient worked tirelessly on Wass has been appointed to the Special Commission During a break in the conference, Gilmore said her association’s Board of Directors for 15 years to Investigate and Study the Commonwealth’s that the MTA Retired Members Committee has been and also served on the Labor Relations Committee Liability for Paying Retiree Health Care and fortunate to have “wonderful” support from the and the Sick Bank Committee,” Gilmore continued. Other Non-Pension Benefits. This commission’s MTA staff. She said she believes the Gathering is “She worked as a mentor to new teachers long before recommendations could affect future legislation to an important place for retirees to connect with one formal mentoring programs became popular across cut benefits in order to reduce costs to municipalities another, learn valuable information and find out how the state. and the state. they can stay involved. “Our award recipient is also considered a As in previous years, the attendees took part in “You have to be politically active nowadays,” humanitarian by her colleagues. She was always the a range of morning and afternoon workshops. They she said. “Society has changed a lot in the last 50 first on the scene to lend a hand to those on staff or included Life Care Planning, Financial Advice for years. So many decisions about the classroom are to families in the community who needed assistance. Retirees, Professional License Renewal, Transitioning affected by who is elected.” Fall 2012 5 Going all out MTA members work to elect candidates who support public education By Sarah Nathan candidates in state legislative races. Phone banks are taking place in lection, election, election. That MTA and local association offices, is what is on Gloria Salazar’s private homes and, in some cases, in E mind these days. restaurants. “I’m going to participate as much Maryelen Calderwood, an as possible between now and Election education support professional at Day and help people read beyond the UMass Amherst who serves as headlines and really be aware of the coordinator of the MTA’s Legislative issues,” said Salazar, a Somerville and Political Action Team in the teacher. Hampshire-Franklin District, Salazar is part of a troop of has hosted two phone banks at MTA educators who are leading The People’s Pint in Greenfield. grassroots efforts throughout the Calderwood describes the pub, which state to turn out votes for MTA- and she used to manage, as a politically NEA-recommended candidates. They active and progressive establishment. include President Barack Obama “People had such a good time and U.S. Senate candidate Elizabeth Photo by Don Williams that we scheduled a second one,” Warren, as well as other supporters of Members of the Massachusetts Community College Council’s Board of Calderwood, who is a true believer in public education who are running in Directors stand together in Worcester in a show of support for U.S. the member-to-member effort, said congressional, state Senate and state Senate candidate Elizabeth Warren and President Barack Obama. after the first phone bank at the pub. representative races. “It’s so important to get the details Educators know that much is at Brown, who has held the Senate seat While it can sometimes be out to other members so they are fully stake when Massachusetts residents go since 2010. intimidating to strike up a conversation aware,” she said. “Once you get them to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 6. “He’s missed opportunities about the election with a neighbor engaged and going on the phones or For Salazar, conversation-starters to support women and equal pay,” — or even a fellow MTA member in person, you can physically see the are an important Salazar said, referring to Brown’s — there is reason to be reassured change from complacent to energized. focus. She makes strong advocacy for the Blunt that the activity is effective. Many It’s a pretty amazing transformation to sure to wear an Amendment, which would have polls confirm that teachers and watch.” Elizabeth Warren allowed employers to limit health other educators are trusted in their Brockton Education Association for Senate or coverage based on moral objections, communities. President Kim Gibson has noted Barack Obama for and his vote against a measure “It’s like they say in the old similar shifts. She said she has seen President T-shirt requiring fair treatment for all in the E.F. Hutton commercials, even if people arrive at phone banks — when she’s out for workplace. “There are a lot of places the subject is different,” said MTA which are happening nightly at the a run or at the gym where he has failed.” President Paul Toner. “When educators BEA headquarters — filled with and looks for any Marblehead teacher Elizabeth talk, people listen. apprehension and then leave feeling and all opportunities Gloria Salazar Dawes, a longtime union and political “Take advantage of your status empowered and enthusiastic. to talk about the activist, said that no one should be as a ‘trusted voice’ and talk to your “Everything changes once you upcoming election. sitting on the sidelines as the election friends and neighbors about why you get that first ‘yes’ from a caller,” said “I try to motivate people to get draws near. She’s volunteering for both support Elizabeth Warren and what Gibson. involved — and I tell them how Obama and Warren. she offers that Scott Brown does not,” Brian Fitzgerald, the LPAT important it is because it affects “It was interesting talking to Toner urged MTA members. “People coordinator in the 1st Bristol and everyone,” she said. “I know in this voters who had some very deep in your school and in your community Plymouth District, has found that country every vote counts and it is feelings about keeping Obama in want to hear what you have to say.” working in a group makes a big very important to play a role because office,” she said as she discussed a difference. you can actually effect change. recent trip to New Hampshire, where uch conversations are a proven “When someone gets a negative “I come from a country where she went door-to-door seeking support strategy, and they are at the response, the other phone-bankers elections were bought,” added Salazar, for the president. “One voter told me Scenter of the MTA’s member- are there to show their support,” said who was born in Colombia. she was so inspired by Obama four to-member program. They do more Fitzgerald, who is also the president of She said she supports Warren, a years ago that she had a personalized than help win votes. They also recruit the Wareham Education Association. Democrat, because “she stands up for license plate made for her car.” volunteers to take part in a host of “That makes a difference.” the things that matter to us.” The grassroots efforts now taking activities — from attending rallies to LPATs throughout the state, “Not only does she stand up for place are varied and intense. Educators phone-banking for a couple of hours to including those led by Fitzgerald and working class people,” she continued, holding one-on-one conversations with talking to their own networks of friends, Calderwood, are playing a key role “she understands the importance of colleagues, friends, family members family members and co-workers. in the MTA’s grassroots campaign education and how hard it is to pay and others know they can help ensure Tens of thousands of calls have initiative. Team members help ensure tuition bills and so many other things.” the election of candidates at all levels been made to MTA members on that the voices of teachers, higher In her view, the same can’t be who will support public schools, behalf of Warren, incumbent U.S. education faculty and staff, education said for Republican incumbent Scott colleges and universities. Representative John Tierney and Continued on next page

6 Fall 2012 Grassroots efforts aid campaigns across the Commonwealth Continued from previous page fellow educators for a variety of Dracut teacher Trevor Blanchet up the team based in the Worcester and support professionals and others campaign activities. is getting involved for the first time Middlesex District, said he is confident are heard by elected and appointed Michael Shannon, an Everett this year. Last month, he went door- that the statewide effort will make a leaders. teacher and Danvers resident, was to-door for Warren in Lowell. “It difference on Election Day. The LPAT members and local recruited by LPAT Coordinators Blythe was surprisingly fun,” said Blanchet, “Without any work, MTA political action leaders — or PALs — Purdin and Mary Miles to take part adding that he recently made the members would vote for Elizabeth work to inform and organize fellow in a standout for Tierney prior to a connection between his job as a public Warren. But hopefully the work MTA members and other residents recent debate. “Massachusetts teachers school educator and political activism. we are doing will push us over into of their communities and to mobilize are here for you,” Shannon told the “I’ve been laid off twice since the win column and secure those them around a pro-public-education congressman when he stopped by to becoming a teacher five years ago. MTA members who may have sat agenda. greet supporters before heading into It’s certainly helped me to understand out this election or previously been To date, 27 LPATs have been the hall. the real need for public funding and undecided,” he said. “Those are the established in the 40 state Senate “I support John Tierney because resources for our students and public people who are going to make a districts. he supports me and my family, my schools,” he said. “I like what Warren difference. During election season, the Senate profession and public education — and has to say — she gets it.” “I don’t want to wake up on Nov. district coordinators, PALs and LPAT has throughout his time in office,” LPAT Coordinator Jim Mullins, a 7 and feel like I didn’t do enough,” members help organize and recruit Shannon told MTA Today. retired journalism teacher who heads Mullins said. Fall 2012 7 DNC trip highlights ‘enormous’ stakes

ven after more than 50 years MTA LPAT Coordinator and of political activism, MTA retired member Bill Dooling E member Bill Dooling still gets has established a “Vets and excited about attending the Democratic Military Families for Warren” National Convention. group. Not long ago, he took In late summer, Dooling, a part in a forum at Bunker Hill longtime Millis High School history Community College. From teacher who is now retired, spent left to right in front are U.S. several days at this year’s convention, Senate candidate Elizabeth which was held in Charlotte, N.C. Warren, Newton Mayor Setti Over the years, Dooling has Warren, state Representative attended a total of four conventions Jerald A. Parisella (D-Beverly) — dating back to his first one in and Dooling. Earlier this Atlanta in 1988, when Massachusetts’ year, Dooling attended then-governor, Michael Dukakis, was the Democratic National nominated for president. Convention in Charlotte, But Dooling saw this convention N.C. Dooling, who was as different from all of the previous among more than 200 NEA ones. He believes the difference members at the DNC, said is connected to what’s at stake for he found it energizing to see students and the entire country, drawing a sharp contrast between educators from across the President Barack Obama and his country working to re-elect Republican challenger, another former President Barack Obama and Massachusetts governor, Mitt Romney. doing everything possible to “The stakes are enormous,” support other pro-education Dooling said during his time in candidates.

Charlotte. “We’re talking about two Photo by Bob Duffy totally different visions of where America should go — two sets of very different priorities. President “Our votes and Obama believes in investing in public education and understands that it’s our activism have Your travel partner an economic necessity to move this to be dedicated to country and everybody in it forward.” making sure they for lifelong learning Dooling was among more than 200 NEA members taking part in this are both the best year’s DNC. He found it energizing to they can be for see educators from across the country the sake of our working hard to re-elect Obama — the best choice for America’s students. country’s future,” Dooling wishes that politicians says MTA activist who try to separate educators from Bill Dooling. their unions could have witnessed the passion that teachers, education support professionals, higher education Legislative and Political Action Team faculty and staff and other members in the 2nd Middlesex and Norfolk who attended the DNC have for Senate District. making sure their students get what In recent days, he has been highly they need to be successful. involved in the campaign to elect “Educators — like the dedicated MTA- and NEA-recommended U.S. people I see here — these are the Senate candidate Elizabeth Warren. MTA members people who make up the union,” said He has also been working hard on • Tours to all seven continents SAVE $150 Dooling. “Lawmakers can’t say they behalf of other pro-public-education • Round-trip air transportation on more than support teachers, but then claim not to candidates. • Expert local Tour Directors 100 tours support our union. We are the union, “Educators’ working conditions • Best Price Guarantee and we all share the same goal — are students’ learning conditions,” making sure all students have access to Dooling said recently. “Our votes and a quality public education.” our activism have to be dedicated to Closer to home, Dooling remains making sure they are both the best they 1-888-466-2849 active in the MTA’s grassroots political can be for the sake of our country’s goaheadtours.com/mta efforts. He is the coordinator of the future.” R 19, G67, B100 HEX: 134364 8 Fall 2012 Consortium website provides information Reading proficiency bill on new assessment system for students supported by MTA By Laura Barrett is signed by governor A major goal of PARCC is to he MCAS tests have been such a huge part determine student progress toward bill backed by the MTA and others of the education landscape in Massachusetts to promote literacy in the early being college- or career-ready by since they were first administered in 1998 grades was signed recently by T the end of high school. A that it’s hard to imagine that in a few years, they may Governor Deval Patrick. be replaced by a national assessment currently being The new law, titled “An Act Relative developed by a 23-state consortium. and skills that are essential to success in the 21st to Third Grade Massachusetts is a member of that consortium, century.” Reading Proficiency,” the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for A major goal of PARCC is to determine student establishes an College and Careers. progress toward being college- or career-ready by the expert literacy PARCC released its first set of item and task end of high school. panel that will make prototypes in August at parcconline.org. PARCC is In order to make the national Common Core recommendations to an online assessment designed to be administered at frameworks more accessible and user friendly, the state departments different points throughout the school year. PARCC has developed a searchable online version of Early Education The first round of testing is scheduled for of the Model Content Frameworks. The site includes and Care, Elementary 2014-2015. a search browser, an online glossary and direct and Secondary State Education Commissioner Mitchell references back to the standards. These materials are Education and Higher Chester told educators attending MTA’s Summer also available at parcconline.org. Education. The Conference in August that no decision will be made The conservative Pioneer Institute is the most recommendations about whether to use PARCC instead of MCAS until vocal critic in Massachusetts of the Common Core will focus on better districts have had an opportunity to experience the and has already come out against the state possibly aligning and coordinating current initiatives new system. replacing MCAS with PARCC, even though the and improving the implementation of In a Department of Elementary and Secondary PARCC system is still under development. Chester programs seeking to get every student in the Education press release issued that month, Chester — who is chair of the PARCC Governing Board Commonwealth reading proficiently by the end said, “The prototypes are a first step in demonstrating — has said that the Common Core is based on the of third grade. what is possible with new assessment technology state’s frameworks, and the standards are as high or Please turn to New/Page 15 that captures students’ application of knowledge higher than those in the frameworks.

Fall 2012 9 LUNCHEON SPEAKER: Kathleen M. Turner 2013 Massachusetts orsEdu Teacher of the Year cat Curr Kathleen M. Turner ently in teaches French at Their Sharon High School. “I First knew since kindergarten that I wanted Eleventh Annual Conference 4 Years of to teach,” said the newly named 2013 Pr Massachusetts Teacher of the Year. Then, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30 actice “on the first day of eighth-grade French 8 – 9 a.m. Registration | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Workshops class, I went home to tell my parents that I would be a high school French teacher.” Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel & Trade Center, Marlborough She has been following that path at REGISTER ONLINE AT www.massteacher.org Sharon High School since 1994. She is the 51st recipient of the award – and the Please select one morning workshop and one afternoon workshop first French teacher to receive it. and use the workshop number for the grade level that best suits your needs She has been instrumental in building the school’s French program. She MORNING WORKSHOPS: paperwork and much, much more. With the and ACCESS assessments. Participants also regularly takes students to Paris first round of open houses and grades behind will leave with strategies for effectively during spring break, plans annual trips MANAGING THE INSPIRED CLASSROOM us, participants will reassess their classroom instructing ELLs and other struggling to Quebec City and has established AM1 – Elementary routines and interactions with parents/ students in their classrooms. an exchange program with a school guardians and leave with new strategies for in Rouen, France. Her students have AM2 – Middle/High School PM6 – Licensure Explained immediate use. These sessions are packed demonstrated impressive results These workshops will use a case study with tips and tricks for anticipating and Do you understand how to get your on the College Board’s AP French approach and focus on the kinds of managing the many unknowns. Professional License? This workshop will exam, according to the Department of self-control students must master in demystify the Massachusetts educator Elementary and Secondary Education. In order to work effectively in a high-stakes AFTERNOON WORKSHOPS: licensure requirements and procedures for the past six years, over 90 percent of the environment. advancing your license, adding a new license 123 students from Sharon High who took Keep Them Engaged Differentiating Instruction and keeping your current license active and the exam scored a 3 or higher. PM1 – Elementary valid. Turner graduated from Northbridge AM3 – Elementary PM2 – Secondary AM4 – Secondary PM7 – Teacher Evaluation: High School. She received a bachelor Many traditional classroom practices engage These workshops will provide information What Does Effectiveness Look Like? of arts in French Studies from Harvard one student at a time and risk the inattention University in 1994 and a master of on differentiating instruction, especially to By now you know that your teaching of others. We’ll share easy-to-use tips and arts degree in French from Middlebury address specific learning styles, academic performance will be formally evaluated at tricks for keeping all of your students engaged College in 1999. She also received readiness and common special needs, such least once this school year, for non-PTS all of the time. Leave with ideas to use in your a certificate of advanced graduate as ADHD. Each will also provide a brief teachers, or every other year for PTS teachers. classroom tomorrow and in the future. studies in educational leadership from introduction to Response to Intervention In the spring of 2011, Massachusetts created Bridgewater State University. and how teachers can use differentiating PM3 – Legal Basics for New Teachers new rules on how teacher effectiveness instruction as part of Response to This workshop will explore how the many should be assessed. Do you know what Intervention to address students’ needs. informal roles required of teachers, from effectiveness looks like? Are you an effective teacher? In this workshop, we’ll use a case Important Notes: AM5 – Assessing Student Progress surrogate parent to counselor, affect our study to explore the variables and challenges ★ The registration fee is $60 per person All Levels obligations and liabilities. in answering those questions. and includes all sessions, materials, This workshop will examine a wide range of PM4 – The Perils of morning refreshments and lunch. strategies to assess student progress, not the Internet & E-mail PM8 – Demystifying the Common Core ★ This conference is appropriate for only after we’ve taught a lesson or unit, but The Common Core is currently being rolled Educators face dangers when using e-mail school district use in partially fulfilling as we teach. The goal is to use assessment out in districts across Massachusetts. What and the Internet. This workshop explores the obligation to provide an induction is the Common Core? This workshop will as continuous feedback, to know when and e-mail form and format, privacy rights in the program for all new teachers review the history of the Common Core and why a student didn’t “get it,” to intervene technological world, Internet use on duty (603 CMR 7.00). appropriately and to do all this fairly and and off duty, acceptable use policies, social give educators at all levels the opportunity ★ equitably. networking activity and public employees’ to take a close look at the new standards The MTA will provide participants while discussing how this will impact your with a record of sessions attended. Strategies for Working rights as citizens versus their status as classroom. ★ Individuals should register online at with Parents & Paperwork employees and role models. www.massteacher.org. AM6 – Elementary PM5 – Academic Language for ★ Alternatively, a registration form AM7 – Middle/High School English Language Learners T he Day At A Glance & other Struggling Students found at www.massteacher.org can be There are progress reports and report cards, On-site check-in printed and returned by mail. IEPs, working with your team, working with Do you have English Language Learners in 8:00 – Prior registration is required ★ Districts may register groups by your mentor, surviving parent conferences, your school? Your classroom? This workshop 9:00 a.m. Exhibits and “good stuff free” providing group members with a getting through the winter doldrums, being for non-ESL/ELL teachers will provide purchase order number and directing ready for the end-of-the-year barrage of information about the new WIDA standards 9:00 – Morning Workshops them to www.massteacher.org 11:30 a.m. or by calling 800.392.6175, ext. 8300. 11:30 a.m. – ★ Prior registration is required. On-site Luncheon and Speaker 1:00 p.m. check-in is from 8 to 9 a.m. There are exhibits and “good stuff free” during 1:00 – check-in. Workshops begin promptly Afternoon Workshops 3:00 p.m. at 9 a.m. www.massteacher.org/cepp

10 Fall 2012 Districts reach evaluation agreements

By Laura Barrett good. The MTA is now training In addition to bargaining contract language, RTTT all teachers and administrators in our out of five school districts districts should by now have scheduled training for all Holyoke. Lorie Banks, an eighth-grade and local associations that educators on implementing the new system. teacher at the Morgan school who F participate in the Race to was interviewed by MTA Today at the the Top program and have teacher districts across the state will have to improvements before being terminated. beginning of the evaluation process contracts had reached agreement in bargain new contract language and The regulations set the range between last year, was asked this fall to reflect bargaining or were very close as of implement the new evaluation system. 30 calendar days and a year. on how it turned out in the end. mid-October, according to surveys In addition, next year evaluation n Setting a minimum amount She said conducted by both the MTA and systems will have to begin including of time that evaluators must spend that the process the Department of Elementary and multiple measures of student in a classroom when conducting was largely Secondary Education. achievement. However, trends in unannounced observations. positive. The most “Those numbers show significant student growth on the MCAS, where While RTTT districts must challenging part progress in implementing a complicated available, and district-determined implement the new system this for some teachers, new system,” said MTA President Paul measures will not begin being used year, 34 Level 4 schools — schools she said, was Toner. until 2014 at the earliest. labeled “underperforming” by the collecting evidence There are 231 districts that signed Mark Sheehan, MTA’s director DESE — had to implement it last to demonstrate on to Race to the Top. Of these, 185 of affiliate services, said that several year, beginning the process before progress toward Lorie Banks are districts that have collective issues have recurred as the most the state had even issued guidance meeting their bargaining agreements, while 46 common causes of delays in reaching or model language. The MTA was goals. But she did not personally find are charter schools that do not have contract agreements. They include: hired by Holyoke to implement that difficult. contracts. Of those with contracts, n Defining what “substantial the system locally, working in the “When I chose my goals, I approximately 80 percent indicated compliance” with the evaluation Morgan Elementary School and Dean selected ones that I knew I could they had completed and signed procedures means when a termination Vocational Technical High School. provide evidence for,” she said, noting agreements or were confident that is being challenged in arbitration. Kathleen Skinner, director of that she found it easier to collect agreements would be Yourratified soon. degreen Establishingis closer how longthan a youMT think...A’s Center for Education Policy evidence along the way rather than State regulations mandate teacher or administrator deemed and Practice, said that feedback on waiting until the end of the cycle. that next year, all of the remaining “unsatisfactory” must have to make MTA’s training in Holyoke was very For Banks, one of the most valuable parts of the process was an Paid Advertisement activity that wasn’t part of the formal evaluation process, but that stemmed from it. Her principal, Aliza Pluta, degree had said that she learned a lot by Your is closer ... conducting many observations and than you think walk-throughs and that she felt teachers would also gain insight by visiting other classrooms. Banks sat in on a second- grade math class, and a kindergarten teacher sat in on her class. “I liked to see how the foundation for math was laid,” she said. “And I think it helped the kindergarten teacher to see what the early foundation led to by eighth grade.” In addition to bargaining contract language, RTTT districts should by MASTER OF EDUCATION in ORGANIZATIONAL MANAGEMENT now have scheduled training for all educators on implementing the new Specialization in non-profit management or standard program | 36 credit hours/12-course program system. The DESE is funding a “train the trainers” model in which school Program includes online and classroom delivery | Call or email for individualized advising plan leadership teams from Race to the Top districts are trained in the new system and then they train individual teachers and administrators at their school sites. For more information, contact Elizabeth Otto | 978.998.7754 | [email protected] In a letter to the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Van Loan SchooL of and the DESE, Toner wrote, “The MTA is strongly committed to Endicott raduatE and rofESSionaL tudiES G P S making the new evaluation system College 376 Hale Street | Beverly, MA | www.endicott.edu/gps work effectively. Comprehensive professional development for both Endicott College is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Please turn to Quality/Page 15 Fall 2012 11 ‘Respect students as individuals and as learners’

Continued from Page 3 legislation requiring increasing levels rally, attended by students, faculty ALSO HONORED of standardization. ... I respectfully and members of Turner’s family. “In n her State House speech, Teacher of the Year Kathleen M. Turner saluted the urge you to consider the possibility my speech,” Turner noted, “one of I finalists and semifinalists for the honor she received. that educational legislation should not the things I stressed was that effective Finalists: Scott Balicki, Boston Latin School, Boston; Maureen Knowlton, Millis always be ‘one size fits all.’” teaching does not happen in isolation. Middle School, Millis; Paula Nickerson Plock, Williamstown Elementary School, Turner concluded her interview And for me, while this award is a Williamstown; John Scopelleti, South Shore Regional Vocational High School, with MTA Today by sharing what validation of the work that I do, it’s Hanover; and Alison M. Spade, Boston Renaissance Charter Public School, Boston. she would say to new or prospective also a validation of the work we teachers: Semifinalists: Michelle A. Archambault, Peter Noyes Elementary School, all do, because no one of us can be “It is the best job. It is a Sudbury; Dawn Marie Costa, Dr. Kevin M. Hurley Middle School, Seekonk; Kathryn successful without the commitment challenging job. You have to be a Dye, Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School, Haverhill; and Neil and dedication of everybody else from teacher, an actor, a parent, a coach Mansfield, Assabet Valley Technical High School, Marlborough. all grades and across all disciplines.” and a cheerleader. Your role isn’t just Likewise, Turner contends your subject matter. Reflect. Respect that while Sharon High School was your commitment to public education misconception that our job ends with students as individuals and as learners. designated a Blue Ribbon School — and ultimately to the nation’s the closing bell! “Admit when you make a mistake. this year by the U.S. Department of children — by agreeing to shadow two “By immersing yourselves in There are days that will go badly, and Education, “the award should have teachers in your home constituencies our world, you would have a new there will be students who lash out — gone to the entire district.” or communities each year.” perspective on the strengths and it’s not about you. Be resilient, patient, “I don’t like the idea that they “I propose that you spend one weaknesses of our systems. You compassionate, enthusiastic, energetic isolated the high school as the Blue week in what is considered to be a would be able to assess, for example, — and the challenge is that all those Ribbon school when the reality is that ‘high-achieving district’ and a second whether reform movements such as things are needed in different amounts it’s the team of every teacher in this week in what has been labeled an ‘Race to the Top’ foster improved each day. district that contributes to the success ‘underperforming district’ in order to teaching and learning and to what “It’s important to take students of all of the other teachers and all of witness the disparities that exist within extent standardized testing can seriously, your job seriously, but not to our students. states and across the country,” she said. measure a student’s or a teacher’s take yourself too seriously.” “We are a team, and we have to “I invite you into our schools to gain success. Moreover, you would see Turner automatically becomes be working together collaboratively,” firsthand knowledge of the many facets our struggle to meet the diverse needs the Massachusetts candidate for the Turner stressed. “That is not only of teachers’ jobs. ... It is a common of our students while adhering to National Teacher of the Year honor. why I’m against merit pay — it’s also why I’m against using test scores to determine teacher accountability or as the sole indicator of teacher effectiveness. For, again, there are factors that go way beyond what any of us do, including factors that have Go to the head of the class nothing to do with school whatsoever that impact how a student might in planning for perform in the classroom.” your financial future. A challenge Turner went on to discuss “non- No matter what stage you are at in your career, MetLife can educators — people who have never help you reach your financial goals. Take the first step and taught, people who have never been in the classroom — who with best give us a call. See what you can do with MetLife Resources. intentions are developing policies for educators.” For an appointment, contact Randy Feid, “These policies may sound very Regional Managing Director at MetLife Resources, good in theory, but in practice, they at 508.870.1925, ext. 1725, or [email protected]. may not be effective or practical, depending on the district, depending on the school, depending on the teacher,” she said. “If you’re going to treat teachers as professionals,” she continued, “you need to let them make professional decisions based on what they see in front of them and what’s best for the students they have in front of them.”

At the conclusion of her speech MetLife offers various products and services to MTA members through the MTA Benefits program. MTA Benefits at the State House, Turner issued receives a sponsorship fee from MetLife in connection with its endorsement of its products and services. MetLife Resources is a division of Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, 200 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10166. a challenge to lawmakers and MLR19000235084 L0312246296[exp0313][All States][DC] © 2012 PNTS 1207-2775 business leaders “to further show

12 Fall 2012 History honoree stresses need for responsible citizenship

By Jerry Spindel Richard F. Houston, the Massachusetts History Teacher ichard F. Houston, the 2012 of the Year, center, was honored Massachusetts History Teacher during a State House ceremony of the Year, cites responsible on June 18. Standing with him, R from left to right, are Education citizenship as the goal he has for his Secretary Paul Reville, state students at Harwich High School. Representative Alice Peisch, “I emphasize citizenship Governor Deval Patrick and education,” he told MTA Today. “A Education Commissioner Mitchell background in American history Chester. Peisch is the House chair is essential for participation in the of the Legislature’s Education political process.” Committee. “I emphasize Houston’s teaching extends beyond citizenship education,” Houston the classroom. His students attend told MTA Today. “A background town meetings and write on warrant in American history is essential issues that come before the assembly. for participation in the political He also encourages students to attend process.” Many other educators, including Massachusetts Teacher commemorations of Veterans Day, of the Year Kathleen Turner, were Martin Luther King Jr. Day and other also recognized. events in town, as well as to participate in local activities such as Student Photo by Jerry Spindel Government Day and the Harwich Civic Association Essay Contest. Houston said he found the history only of my own work, but also of the Other teachers honored at the Waltham High School, was cited award, which he was given during a other American history teachers out State House during a ceremony on for a “mature approach that puts June 18 ceremony at the State House, there. I know so many of them who are June 18 included: abstract values such as freedom in “humbling.” doing great work.” The 2011 Massachusetts Milken the context of little-known historical “An award like this,” he added, Houston is the state’s candidate for Award Winner. Derek Vandergrift, a events that require independent “only makes sense as a recognition not National History Teacher of the Year. grade 10-11 social studies teacher at research and thought to analyze.”

Paid Advertisement Vandergrift, who serves as a mentor teacher, is also a conference presenter on data analysis, curriculum development and performance data analysis. His award included a check for $25,000 from the Milken Family Foundation. The Massachusetts winners of the 2011 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, along with finalists for the honor. The winners were Kathy Erickson, a mathematics teacher at Monument Mountain Regional High School in Great Barrington; and Naomi Volain, a science teacher at Springfield Central High School in Springfield. Erickson and Volain were selected along with 95 other educators from across the nation, Puerto Rico and schools serving the dependents of Armed Forces personnel. The winners were honored during a three-day event in Washington, D.C. Secondary mathematics finalists were Bernadette D. Manning, Fenway High School, Boston; and Carla McCormack, Clarence Edwards Middle School, Boston. Secondary science finalists were Kristen L. Cacciatore, East Boston High School, Boston; and Mary Ann DeMaria, Bancroft School, Worcester. Fall 2012 13 ‘School Talk’ hits quarter-century mark By Bob Duffy

chool Talk, an education-focused television and Internet show Ssponsored in part by the MTA, is embarking on its 25th season this fall. The 2012 season opener features MTA President Paul Toner, continuing a tradition that dates back many years; one of the show’s early guests was Rosanne Bacon Meade, who also served as head of the association. Nadjia Varney, who serves as the producer and host of School Talk, interviews guests who share information about public education that is not easily available elsewhere, along with insightful analysis. Photo by Matthew DeGrechie “We have entire networks and Nadjia Varney, who hosts School Talk, interviewed MTA President Paul Toner for the first show of the season. channels devoted to things like sports and cooking, but somebody can help educators gain Massachusetts produced at Westfield State University As Schools Match Wits is broadcast needs to be talking to parents to help professional development points. by WGBY. in western Massachusetts. The show, them better understand the issues On another part of the dial, High School Quiz Show will soon which began airing in 1961, is a surrounding education because there the MTA is once again sponsoring be starting its fourth season. One Jeopardy-style program in which teams are a lot of misconceptions out in the two shows that spotlight academic hundred schools will send teams into compete in categories such as arts and public,” Varney said. excellence. Students are the stars of the competition. Qualifying rounds entertainment, literature, math and The half-hour program is produced both High School Quiz Show, which will narrow the field to 16 teams that science, general knowledge and social in the television studio at Bridgewater is filmed in Boston by WGBH, and will vie for victory. More information studies. More information is available State University’s Joseph Moakley AsGSE Schools Ad_Layout Match 1 11/2/11 Wits, which 7:33 PM is Page 1 is available at www.wgbh.org. at www.wgby.org. Technology Center. It airs on Rhode Paid Advertisement Island PBS stations, a number of cable stations in Rhode Island and Massachusetts and an Internet TV channel. School Talk was created by Varney when she was working as a reading specialist in Attleboro and was looking for a way to reach out to parents. She and several colleagues started a nonprofit, mostly volunteer organization called School Talk, Inc. After the show appeared on public access stations for a time, it moved to Rhode Island PBS for broadcasting and eventually to Bridgewater State for At the Graduate School production. “There was then, and there of Education, you can: continues to be, a glaring need for a show like this because education is the most important issue in the country,” • Become an elementary or secondary school teacher Varney said. School Talk airs on Sundays at the • Continue your professional development through following times: 9:30 a.m. on WSBE, an advanced degree online The Standard of Excellence In Teacher Preparation 6 p.m. on WSBEL and 10:30 a.m. • Join one of our three research-focused doctoral on www.onworldwide.com. Other air degree programs times can be found by checking local University of Massachusetts Lowell cable listings. We offer Graduate Certificates, M.Ed., Ed.S. Graduate School of Education The show has produced more than (previously CAGS) and Ed.D. degrees. 61 Wilder St., O’Leary 510 Lowell, MA 01854-3098 400 episodes on a variety of issues. Past 978.934.4601 shows on numerous topics that remain Visit our website, www.uml.edu/education, www.uml.edu/education relevant are available on the show’s or contact us at edoffi[email protected] website, www.schooltalk.tv, and many are on YouTube. Some of the shows

14 Fall 2012 New law supported by MTA promotes reading proficiency in early grades Continued from Page 9 deserve helps secure a strong future for The bill was promoted by the “We need to redouble our efforts to improve literacy, particularly the entire Commonwealth.” Early Education for All campaign, of in our low-income districts,” says MTA President Paul Toner. The panel will be co-chaired by which MTA is a member. Education Secretary Paul Reville and MTA President Paul Toner said to finish high school by age 19 than on Sept. 26, “recognizes that the path an outside expert on children’s early that the MTA supports the goals of children who are proficient readers,” to reading success begins at birth, language and literacy development. It the new law and recognizes that Toner said. “Despite our great success with children’s earliest language will be composed of nine members in early literacy is critical to a student’s in education, 40 percent of students development,” said Amy O’Leary, all. success in all subjects. in Massachusetts score below the director of Early Education for They will make recommendations “A recent study commissioned ‘proficient’ level in reading on MCAS. All, a campaign of Strategies for on effective instructional practices, by the Annie E. Casey Foundation We need to redouble our efforts to Children. “It includes high-quality curricula, and professional development found that children who are not improve literacy, particularly in our early education, strong primary grade for teachers, among other issues related proficient readers by the end of low-income districts.” instruction and family engagement. to helping children learn to read well by third grade are four times less likely The law, which Patrick signed Giving young children the start they third grade.

Quality is key goal of evaluation system

Continued from Page 11 When Your Income Needs Get Critical administrators and teachers is essential to that end. … No one wants training Accidents and illnesses can mean more for training’s sake. All of the PD for than missed work and lost pay – they can this new system is intended to make also balloon your medical debt and topple a complex system understandable your budget. and achievable for educators. A lot is at stake. If things are done right, we believe the new system will provide Critical Illness Insurance educators with the actionable feedback Financially survive a critical illness they need to improve instruction. If Offset the out-of-pocket expenses that medical coverage implementation is done poorly, the won’t cover when the unexpected hits. new regulations could become another bureaucratic mandate that does little to Critical illness insurance pays a lump-sum benefit at the improve the quality of education in our first diagnosis of certain covered illnesses, such as heart schools.” attack or stroke. The plan also includes an optional rider Toner told MTA Today, “We urge for cancer coverage and offers family coverage. our associations to press their districts to provide comprehensive training. Disability Insurance That takes time. This is a new way of Focus on your recovery looking at evaluation.” Disability benefits can replace part of your income when Skinner added, “The old system you are unable to work, allowing you to focus on recovery was evaluator-centered. By that I mean instead of worrying about the ability to pay your bills. MTA’s the evaluator set the goals and then disability plan provides tax-free income and is guaranteed- judged whether a teacher met them issue during open enrollment. or not. The new system is educator- centered. Educators are full partners in Monthly payments just got easier! setting both their own goals and their Arrange to have your critical illness team’s goals. They have to think about how to meet those goals and how to and disability premiums automatically demonstrate the goals were met. This withdrawn from your bank account. calls for more reflection and self- appraisal, both of which we believe are crucial to improving instruction. If it is done right, the evaluators should be Contact us to find out if your there to support and guide educators through this process. They should school district participates! serve more as partners than as judges.” Toner said, “This is not meant to Call 888.646.1972, ext.104, or visit be a ‘gotcha’ system. It is meant to www.mtabenefits.com provide teachers with useful feedback. “Massachusetts has excellent schools,” he said. “The goal of these Underwritten by: Unum Life Insurance Company of America changes is to make our great schools even better.” Fall 2012 15 Support your union! Try us first!

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16 Fall 2012 WSU Grad ad.indd 1 8/2/12 1:45 AM Nomination papers available

TA members who intend to seek election to MTA Election Timeline M office at the 2013 Annual Meeting of Delegates or to run for NEA Director may now apply for nomination papers. N omination Deadlines Annual Meeting elections will take place in May for vacancies in January 11 Statewide, Regional and Retired Delegates to the NEA RA the offices of Regional Executive Committee Member, District Director January 11 Regional Ethnic Minority Delegates to MTA Annual Meeting and Statewide Retired District Director. There are two NEA Director January 11 Statewide Retired District Delegates to MTA Annual Meeting vacancies. The directors will be elected by direct-mail ballot. Ballots will be January 11 NEA Directors sent to the entire membership. Applications for nomination papers for MTA office must be March 1 Regional Executive Committee Members submitted in writing to the office of the Executive Director-Treasurer, MTA, March 1 20 Ashburton Place, Boston, MA District Directors 02108. Although there is no deadline for requesting them, nomination papers March 1 Statewide Retired District Directors for MTA office must be filed with the Executive Director-Treasurer by 5 p.m. on March 1, regardless of postmark. March 1 Retired Members Committee Nomination papers for NEA Director positions may be requested in April 12 Student Delegate Election to the NEA RA (if Applicable) the same manner, but must be filed no later than Friday, Jan 11. No person may be a candidate for Filing Deadlines For Proposed Amendments more than one office. Each candidate must specify the office sought, the January 11 Bylaws and Standing Rules term of the office, his or her MTA individual membership ID number January 11 Resolutions (which can be found on the MTA membership card), home and school addresses, telephone numbers, fax MTA Board. All terms will be for three and regional delegate elections. The [email protected] or faxing numbers, e-mail addresses and local years. The open districts are 6A, 33C, term is three years, beginning Sept. inquiries to 617.742.7046. association. 36C, 41C, 39E, 40E, 12F, 13F, 24F, 1, 2013, and expiring Aug. 31, 2016, *In accordance with Article IX, All candidates must comply with 16G, 17G, 20G, 48H and 49H. Each in accordance with the NEA’s fiscal Section 2B, of the MTA Bylaws, all the nomination and election provisions candidate must be an active MTA year. members of the Board of Directors of the MTA Bylaws, which will be member** and must be employed in Each candidate must be an active (including officers; Regional Executive made available to candidates. education within the electoral district MTA member** and an active or Committee Members; the Statewide Regional Executive Committee in which the candidate seeks office. education support professional NEA Retired Region Executive Committee Members*: There will be four Statewide Retired District member, as determined by the NEA Member; the At-Large ESP Member; vacancies for Regional Executive Directors*: There will be two Constitution and Bylaws, for at least District, Statewide, and At-Large Committee Member positions. The vacancies for Statewide Retired two years immediately preceding the Directors; and NEA Directors) will be regional vacancies are for Regions District Director positions. Both are election, and a non-supervisor member delegates to the MTA Annual Meeting B, D, E and H. A candidate must be for three-year terms. Candidates must as defined by the NEA. The policy of Delegates. Election as delegates an active MTA member** and must be members of the statewide retired procedure for the direct election of will occur simultaneous to, and by be employed in education within the district. There is a self-nomination NEA Directors and Alternate NEA virtue of, election to the above-named electoral region in which the candidate process. The nomination deadline is Directors is available upon request. offices. seeks office. All terms will be for three March 1. For further information on **RIF’d members and members years. NEA Directors*: The vacant MTA nominations and elections, who have been granted leaves of District Directors — MTA NEA Director seats will be filled by please contact Diane Foley of the absence by their employers may be Board*: There will be 14 vacancies direct-mail vote in March and April, MTA Governance Division by considered active members employed for District Director positions on the in tandem with the NEA statewide calling 617.878.8217, e-mailing in education. Fall 2012 17 2013 NOMINATION FORM FOR: NEA DELEGATES TO THE NEA RA l REGIONAL ETHNIC MINORITY DELEGATES TO THE MTA ANNUAL MEETING l STATEWIDE RETIRED DISTRICT DELEGATES TO THE MTA ANNUAL MEETING

Important Message: A Candidate must fill out a separate nomination form for each office sought. A candidate must file this nomination form or a facsimile with the Executive Director-Treasurer by 5 p.m. on Friday, January 11, 2013, regardless of postmark. ADDITIONAL FORMS MAY BE REQUESTED OR THIS FORM MAY BE DUPLICATED. FORMS may be faxed to diane foley at 617.742.7046. Please check the appropriate box that corresponds to the election. NAME OF CANDIDATE:______NEA DELEGATE MTA REGIONAL ETHNIC MINORITY MEMBER ID #:______TO THE NEA RA DELEGATE TO THE MTA ANNUAL (Listed on your MTA ID card) EDUCATIONAL POSITION: MEETING E-MAIL:______(Check One) ETHNIC MINORITY DESIGNATION: HOME ADDRESS:______q Teacher or Education (Check One) Support Professional q Asian/Pacific Islander ______q Administrator or Supervisor q Cape Verdean q Retired q Latino ______q Retired Life q African-American TELEPHONE:______(See policy for definitions.) q American Indian/ Alaska Native work e-mail:______I hereby declare my candidacy for: (Check One) EDUCATIONAL POSITION SCHOOL ADDRESS:______q STATEWIDE – Non-Supervisor q Teacher or Education q REGIONAL – Non-Supervisor Support Professional ______q STATE WIDE OTHER q Administrator or Supervisor ______(Administrator or Supervisor) q RETIRED MTA STATEWIDE RETIRED DISTRICT TELEPHONE:______DELEGATE TO THE MTA ANNUAL MEETING LOCAL ASSOCIATION:______Candidate Eligibility: (Check One) q MTA Retired member ______q MTA life member who is retired who holds NEA-R or NEA retired life DISTRICT/REGION:______membership

INSTRUCTIONS 1. MTA Policy: Each candidate may submit a headshot photograph and biography/statement 7. Acronyms, such as “NEA-RA” or “MTA,” count as one word. containing no more than 50 words. Note: Only the first 50 words will be printed.The Credentials 8. Insert punctuation in the same box immediately after the word that you want it to follow. and Ballot Committee reserves the right to edit all bios. 9. Indicate intent to commence a new paragraph by inserting the paragraph symbol (¶) in the same 2. Write out your statement1 on a separate piece of paper first, and then fill out the grid. box immediately preceding the first word in the paragraph. 3. Type or print clearly, using both upper- and lower-case letters, as you expect the final statement 10. A date represented as “October 1, 2006” shall constitute three words. The same date represented to appear. as “10/1/06” is only one word. 4. Insert only one word per box. 11. Send this entire nomination form and photo to: MTA, Governance Specialist, 20 Ashburton Place, 5. Do not combine words or numbers with hyphens or slashes. Boston, MA 02108. Only this form and photos received by January 11, 2013, will be published 6. “An,” “a” and “the” constitute one word. with the ballot. PHOTO ON FILE MAY BE USED. The Credentials and Ballot Committee may request a new or more recent photo. BIO/STATEMENT GRID — PLEASE PRINT

Please select from the following and check the appropriate boxes: q 50-word (maximum) bio/statement grid enclosed. q use photo on file. q I am not submitting a photo. q Photo sent via e-mail (high-resolution JPEG headshot, 300 dpi). q Photo enclosed. q Please return photo. q I am not submitting a bio/statement grid. My qualifications are in accordance with those of the designated position for which I am a candidate:

Signature:______3 Date:______18 Fall 2012 NEA RA delegates to be elected by mail tatewide, regional and retired The MTA will be notified by the delegates from Massachusetts will accountability is met. The policy delegates from Massachusetts NEA in February of the number of attend, in addition to delegates elected procedure for the election of MTA S to the 2013 NEA Representative delegates allocated to Massachusetts. by local associations. Delegates to the RA should be reviewed Assembly will be elected by mail ballot The allocation of statewide and regional The Credentials and Ballot carefully by anyone considering next March and April. delegates will be based on electoral Committee has adopted procedures for candidacy. The election to choose the NEA regions A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H. A list the election that call for ballots and The policy procedure for the Directors will be held simultaneously of local associations by electoral region other material to be sent directly to election of retired delegates is and in the same manner. is available upon request. each NEA member in Massachusetts available upon request. The nomination period for The distribution of statewide and in a self-mailer that bears the notice: It states that this election “shall be delegates is now in process and will regional seats will be voted on by the “Important: Ballots Enclosed.” subject to all restrictions, procedures, close at 5 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 11. MTA Board of Directors at its meeting Ballots will be returned directly to and deadlines set forth by the NEA The election period runs from on Jan. 25; candidates will be informed the Credentials and Ballot Committee guidelines and MTA’s statewide and March 1 through April 26. Ballots for of the final allocation plan and will at a post office box. Data from the regional election process.” statewide and regional delegates will be given an opportunity to alter the returns will be tabulated and counted Inquiries concerning procedures be mailed to eligible active MTA/NEA designation for the level they seek to at MTA headquarters in Boston under for the nomination and election of members and will be accompanied represent. the supervision of the Credentials and NEA delegates may be addressed to by bio/statements and photos of Tentative dates for the RA are Ballot Committee. Diane Foley in the MTA Division candidates who submit them. July 1 through July 6, and travel Elected delegates are expected of Governance. Her phone number Retired delegate ballots and bio/ dates are June 30 and July 7. The to comply with the accountability is 617.878.8217, her fax number is statements will be mailed only to RA will take place in Atlanta, Ga. requirements set forth by the MTA. 617.742.7046 and her e-mail address is retired and retired life NEA members. The statewide, regional and retired Funding will not be provided unless [email protected]. Regional ethnic minority delegates to be chosen

egional ethnic minority Regional ethnic minority and equal to the number of district Region D, five vacancies; Region delegates to the 2013 MTA delegates will be elected by mail directors from each region. No more E, five vacancies; Region F, six R Annual Meeting will be ballots forwarded in the same self- than one delegate from each district vacancies; Region G, six vacancies; elected by mail ballot next March and mailer as the NEA ballots. The within a region will be elected, with and Region H, seven vacancies. April in conjunction with the NEA election period runs from March 1 the exception of 44H, which has two Each candidate must be employed in delegate/director elections. through April 26. directors. education within the region in which The nomination period for regional Ballots for regional ethnic the candidate seeks office. ethnic minority delegates is now in minority delegates will be mailed to here will be 48 vacancies Inquiries regarding nomination, process and will close at 5 p.m. on active MTA members, accompanied for regional ethnic minority election and the policy procedure may Friday, Jan. 11. Nominations are open by bio/statements and photos of T delegates. be directed to Diane Foley in the MTA to all eligible ethnic minority members candidates who submit them. All terms will be for one year. Division of Governance. Her phone through a self-nomination process. The 2013 allocation of regional The regional vacancies are: Region number is 617.878.8217, her e-mail The form appears on page 18 of ethnic minority delegates will be A, seven vacancies; Region B, five address is [email protected] and this issue of MTA Today. based on MTA electoral regions vacancies; Region C, seven vacancies; her fax number is 617.742.7046. Bylaws and Rules Committee now accepting proposals

he MTA Bylaws and Rules Bylaws and Rules Committee by 5 Submitters will be informed of in parentheses language to be deleted. Committee will soon p.m. on Friday, Jan. 11. hearing dates and will be expected to Indicate the location of completely T begin reviewing proposed Proposed changes to the Standing meet with the committee to discuss the new language. amendments. Rules only may be submitted in language and intent of their proposals. 3. Accompany each proposed A proposal to amend the writing to the MTA Bylaws and Rules Proper format: Please use the amendment with a written rationale on Bylaws addresses the governance Committee up to the opening of the following format for each proposed its purpose, impact and intent. of the association or the primary first business session of the May 10-11 amendment. 4. Include at the end of all characteristics and functions of Annual Meeting in Boston. 1. Specifically cite all articles, proposals the submitter’s name and the MTA. A proposal to amend However, early submission by sections and lines of the Bylaws or local association. the Standing Rules addresses the the Jan. 11 deadline provides an Standing Rules that are to be changed 5. Provide your full name, procedures of the Annual Meeting of opportunity for a full hearing by the or affected. address, telephone numbers, fax Delegates, nominations and elections committee, by the Board of Directors 2. Set forth your proposal in two numbers, e-mail address or addresses or governance documents. and at the April preconvention columns, comparing the proposed and your MTA membership ID Filing process and deadline: meetings. text opposite the present text. In number, which can be found on your Proposed changes to the Bylaws must It also allows advance publication the proposed language, underline MTA membership card. be received in writing by the MTA in the Spring issue of MTA Today. amended or added language. Enclose Please turn to Bylaws/Page 20 Fall 2012 19 MTA Resolutions Committee accepting proposals

roposed revisions to MTA The 2012-2013 committee resolutions are now being To become the official position of the members are Chairwoman Diana P accepted. Resolutions are the MTA, a resolution must be adopted by Marcus, Susan Densmore, JoAnn organization’s statements of principle Evans, Millie Ficarra, Susan Karb, on issues relating to members, public the delegates to the Annual Meeting. David McGlothlin, Lorraine Niccoli education, the welfare of students and and Deanna White-Hebert. Laura human and civil rights. Proposed resolutions may also be Committee, and those submitted by Barrett is the staff consultant, and A proposal for a new resolution submitted by the end of business on the January deadline are also brought Janice Morrissey is the staff assistant. or revision of an existing one may be Friday, May 10, at the Annual Meeting before the Board of Directors. submitted by any member. of Delegates. The committee may also To become the official position For a copy of the current The initial deadline for propose resolutions. of the MTA, a resolution must be MTA resolutions, please go to submissions to the Resolutions All resolutions submitted are adopted by the delegates to the Annual www.massteacher.org, and search for Committee is Friday, Jan. 11. considered by the Resolutions Meeting. “Resolutions.” Statewide retired district delegates to be chosen by mail ballot TA statewide retired district Nominations are open to all through April 26. Ballots for statewide later than March 1. The terms last one delegates to the 2013 MTA eligible MTA/NEA retired members retired delegates will be mailed to year. M Annual Meeting will be through a self-nomination process. The retired MTA/NEA members and will The policy procedure for the elected by mail ballot in conjunction form appears on page 18 of this issue be accompanied by bio/statements and election will be mailed to any candidate with the NEA delegate/director of MTA Today. photos of candidates who submit them. who requests a copy. Inquiries may elections. Statewide retired district delegates The 2013 allocation of statewide be directed to Diane Foley in the The nomination period for will be elected by mail ballots retired district delegates and successor MTA Division of Governance at statewide retired delegates is now in forwarded in the same self-mailer as delegates will be based on the number 617.878.8217. They may also be process and will close at 5 p.m. on the NEA retired delegate ballots. The of MTA/NEA retired members from the e-mailed to [email protected] or Friday, Jan. 11. election period runs from March 1 statewide retired district on record no faxed to 617.742.7046.

Bylaws and Rules Committee assistance available Continued from Page 19 member upon request. No lines. No waiting. Who may submit proposals? Assistance: The Bylaws and Individual MTA members, groups Rules Committee and MTA staff are MTA/NEA retirees and pre-retirees can purchase or of members and local associations available to discuss ideas for potential renew memberships with a click of the mouse are eligible to submit proposed amendments. amendments to the MTA Bylaws and Informational inquiries and www.massteacher.org/retired Standing Rules. Members wishing to written proposals submitted for the use an official title representing an MTA attention of the MTA Bylaws and J Faster processing times. affiliate or committee are required to Rules Committee should be channeled submit evidence that a vote was taken through Mary Ann Alfond, MTA J Members receive ID cards in a more timely fashion. by authorized representatives of the director of professional services. Her J No checks to write or forms to fill out. affiliate or the committee. address is MTA, 20 Ashburton Place, Current document: A copy Boston, MA 02108. Her telephone J Secure Internet connection means your credit card of the current document containing the number is 617.878.8213, her fax information is protected. MTA Bylaws, Standing Rules number is 617.742.7046 and her e-mail and Resolutions is available to any address is [email protected].

Retired committee Election waiver has four seats open If the number of our members of the eight- candidates is equal member Retired Members to or less than the Committee will be elected by F number of positions statewide retired district delegates to the 2013 MTA Annual Meeting in to be filled, elections May. may be waived and the Please see the next issue of the candidates declared Questions? Call MTA’s Membership MTA Reporter for details and the self- elected to the positions nomination form. The deadline for in question. Accounting Office at 617.878.8118 nominations is March 1.

20 Fall 2012 EMAC event features prominent speakers, jazz and workshops

Continued from Page 2 After a buffet breakfast on Saturday, Dec. terms as president of the 62,000-member Virginia national election, he will no doubt have a lot to say 1, participants will choose among three different Education Association. about the future of public schools, higher education morning workshops: Developing Cultural Identity, Under Moss’ leadership, the VEA increased its and the role of minority educators. Networking and Cultural Perspective Outreach to the membership, lobbied successfully for an increase in After serving as NEA’s top elected leader from Community. retiree health care benefits and advocated for greater 2002 to 2008, Weaver became vice president of investment in public education at the state and local Education International, a 394-member organization he lunchtime guest speaker will be Princess levels. representing nearly 30 million teachers and education Moss, an elementary school music teacher The afternoon workshops are Bargaining the workers in 171 countries. He has been named one in Louisa County, Va. Moss was elected to New Educator Evaluation Process, Reacting to of Ebony magazine’s 100 Most Influential Black T the NEA’s Executive Committee in July 2011 for a Differences and How Much Do You Know about Americans. second three-year term. Ethnic Studies? Friday evening will also feature a reception and Moss has had more than two decades of Members of the MTA Board of Directors will dance, with music by the Never Say Never jazz band. education experience, including serving two join participants for lunch on Saturday.

Did you know ift o You can save big on everyday necessities A G T with your MTA member card and Access. The Massachusetts Child The Savings Really Add Up! Members who use Access just a few times a week can Is a Great Way Typical Yearly Purchases How Often? Savings Per Savings easily save hundreds of dollars To Say: Purchase Food – enough to offset the

Grocery Store Coupons 2 purchases/month $13 $312 Q Happy Anniversary! Dining – Lunch 1 meal/week $3 $156 entire cost of MtA

Dining – Dinner 2 meals/month $5 $120 MeMbership! Pizza Delivery 2 purchases/month $8 $192 Q Congratulations! Entertainment Visit www.mtabenefits.com DVD Rentals 2 purchases/month $4 $96 and click on the Access icon Q Good Work! Movie Passes 4 tickets/month $2 $96 to register and discover over Everyday Needs & Services Apparel 4 outfits/year $25 $100 300,000 places to save. Q Happy Birthday!

Dry Cleaning 2 trips/month $2 $48

Auto Service (2 cars) 6 oil changes/year $5 $30 Q Enjoy Your Beauty Supplies 4 purchases/year $20 $5 Retirement! Travel & Leisure $5 Hotel Stays 7 nights/year $25 $175

Theme Parks 4 passes/year $10 $40 Total Savings: $1,385 For information: 800.392.6175 Extension 8265

Fall 2012 21

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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22 Fall 2012 Obituaries

Jo-Anne Baril, 71, of Taunton. School for 35 years. Aug. 2. Buzzards Bay. Taught in Weymouth, Frances Hannah E. Riel, 74, Was a reading specialist in Brockton Anthony T. King, 63, of served as the assistant superintendent of Stow. Taught English in Stow and for 35 years. July 30. Hingham. Was the director of guidance in Marshfield and then served as the Sudbury for many years until her Nancy Carpenter, 61, of for the Braintree Public Schools for 35 superintendent of Winchester before retirement in 1985. July 18. North Adams. Was a special years. Aug. 16. retiring in 1985. Sept. 12. Elizabeth B. Sampson, 85, of education teacher at Drury High William C. MacDonald, 85, of Marguerite Meehan, of Ipswich. Was an elementary teacher in Springfield. Taught in the Springfield the Gloucester Public Schools for 20 Public Schools. Sept. 13. years, retiring in 1970. Sept. 10. Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation

1. Publication Title: MTA TODAY Paid Advertisement 2. Publication Number: 0898-2481 3. Filing Date: September 28, 2012 4. Issue Frequency: Quarterly Lesley University Graduate School of Education 5. Number of Issues Published Annually: 4 Issues 6. Annual Subscription Price: Not Applicable Providing a better learning experience 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: 20 Ashburton Place, Boston, MA 02108 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher: Same as #7 for teachers for more than 100 years 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Address of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor: Ann Clarke, Publisher, and James P. Sacks, Editor. Lesley’s Graduate School of Education is (Managing Editor is the same as Editor.) marked by its commitment to the preparation 10. Owner: Massachusetts Teachers Association, 20 Ashburton Place, Boston, MA 02108 11. Known Bondholders: Not Applicable and professional development of educators, 12. Tax Status: Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 months. innovative and challenging coursework, and 13. Publication Title: MTA TODAY lifelong learning. We offer a wide range of 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data: June/July 2012 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation learning opportunities:

a. Total Number of Copies (Net Press Run) Average No. Copies Each Issue No. Copies of Single Issue During Preceding 12 Months Published Nearest to Filing Date • Master’s programs, including 79,088 76,645 those leading to initial and b. 1. Outside County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions Legitimate Paid 78,219 75,770 professional licensure and/or Requested 2. In-County Paid/ Requested Mail Subscriptions N.A. N.A. 3. Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Etc., Outside USPS Distribution N.A. N.A. • Licensure-only programs 4.Requested Copies Dist. by Other Mail Classes Through USPS N.A. N.A. c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation 78,219 75,770 • Certificate programs, including d. Nonrequested 1. Outside County Nonrequested Copies, Including Samples 594 630 Distribution 2. In-County Nonrequested Copies N.A. N.A. Advanced Graduate Studies (by Mail and 3. Nonrequested Copies Dist. Through USPS by Other Mail Classes N.A. N.A. (CAGS) Outside the Mail) 4. Nonrequested Copies Distributed Outside the Mail N.A. N.A. e. Total Nonrequested Distribution 594 630 • Ph.D. programs f. Total Distribution 78,813 76,400 g. Copies Not Distributed 275 245 Lesley offers programs to fit your lifestyle. h. Total 79,088 76,645 i. Percent Paid 99.25% 99.18% Learn on campus, online, or at a location near you. Inquire about our 16. The Statement of Ownership will be printed in the Fall 2012 issue of this publication. Questions? new M.Ed. in 17. James P. Sacks, Editor Contact [email protected] or 888.LESLEY.U Effective Teaching! I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/ or civil sanctions (including multiple damages and civil penalties) teach.lesley.edu/mta

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Fall 2012 23 MTA Benefits Weathering winter It’s never too early to start getting ready

all is in the air, and you probably have taken a drive through New England’s beautiful F foliage, picked an apple or two, carved a pumpkin, sipped on warm apple cider, cheered on your favorite football team and savored other autumn activities. But we can’t forget the season that quickly follows fall — winter. While winter can be wonderful, too, we can’t overlook the tough weather that comes along with it. If you recall the major snowstorm we had last Halloween, you know it’s never too early to start preparing your home for winter weather.

Keeping your home safe and snug A home that is well insulated and ventilated with the proper drainage is better able to withstand harsh New England winters. The following are some suggestions to help your home weather the cold. Although snow on the rooftop may give your n Make sure soffit vents in the eaves are not wall objects such as paintings and photos to a dry home an appearance of a winter wonderland, blocked and air can flow through. place. Take damp upholstered cushions to an area too much buildup can cause major problems — These are great preventive tips, but if your home where they can dry out. Open drawers and cabinets including ice dams. To prevent ice dams from is already experiencing the adverse effects of ice to help wet furniture dry out. Remove furniture from forming, try these tips: dams, here are some steps you’ll want to take: damp carpeting or place foil under the legs to prevent n Have your roof/attic inspector check for proper n Notify your insurance agent right away. wood stains. insulation and ventilation. Nine to 12 inches of n Take photographs and video of the damage. To learn more about how to protect your home insulation is recommended in your attic, with eaves n Make necessary repairs to prevent additional from winter weather or to discuss your coverage for ventilation. damage. Punch small holes into areas of the ceiling needs, contact Educators Insurance Agency toll- n Seal areas where warm air could move from or walls with leakage or bulges from ice dams to aid free at 888.908.6822 from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday your house into your attic. Vent pipes, light fixtures drainage. (Do not use an electric drill!) Use buckets through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on and chimneys, for example. to catch leaking water. Remove as much water as Saturdays. EIA also provides no-obligation quotes n Clean your gutters of debris and leaves. possible from your floors and furniture. Unplug to MTA members for auto, home, boat, umbrella, n Keep snow from accumulating on your roof. electrical appliances near the areas of leakage. Move identity theft coverage and more. Capturing the world in a panoramic view

TA Retired member Arthur Richmond has The book describes the three variations of the become a prolific author and photographer Cape house, using archival images, building plans M since leaving teaching in 2001. and Richmond’s photographs. With stunning wide-format photographs and “After retirement from teaching, I pursued my captivating narratives, he has documented the world passion for photography and proposed the idea of around him in more than a dozen books, including Cape Cod Wide to a publisher,” Richmond said. “It Cape Cod Wide, Provincetown Perspectives, North was accepted and the book was a success. My new Shore Wide and Lighthouses of Cape Cod and the career was born.” Islands. What about second careers in writing or His latest book, The Evolution of the Cape Cod photography for other retired MTA members? House: An Architectural History, features a different MTA Retired member Arthur Richmond stands “They should look around and see if they can approach, one that brings in a personal history. in front of a home featured in his recent book. find a subject that would get attention using an angle “I started with the historic foundation of the that hasn’t been used before,” Richmond said. “It Cape Cod house by reaching back to its English In nearby Ashton–Keynes, he found the house worked for me.” roots,” Richmond said. “My research included where his 12th great-grandfather was born in 1594. As an MTA member, you can select any of the traveling to Chichester, England, home of the This region still has small one- to one-and-a-half- interesting and beautiful Arthur Richmond books Weald and Downland Open Air Museum with its story timber-framed cottages, reflecting a style that listed in the article and receive a 10 percent discount six centuries of restored homes, barns and other was the basis for cottages built by the first English off the purchase price. To purchase a book or find out buildings.” settlers in Massachusetts in the 1620s. more, contact the author at [email protected].

24 Fall 2012 Classifieds

CONFERENCE literacy connection. Please e-mail Carol board, one-half airfare and one week of free nationally acclaimed creative writing school, Cohen at [email protected], travel. More information and application at offers online classes that are convenient, JANUARY 25-27 IN PROVINCETOWN — call her at 508.923.9431 or visit http://sino-americaneducation.org. affordable and fun. Ten-Week Classes = 30 GLSEN Massachusetts — the Gay, Lesbian, www.nowvoyagereducation.com. PDPs. Six-Week Classes = 18 PDPs. Choose and Straight Education Network — will hold SUMMER CAMPS: NOW HIRING FOR 2013 from Fiction, Screenwriting, Memoir, Poetry its annual educator retreat. The retreat is open DAY CARE — Three respected camps in beautiful N.H. and and many others. Visit WritingClasses.com or to LGBT and straight ally adults working in Mass. lakeside locations are seeking educators call 877.974.8377. any school system. Topics include networking, TEACHER’S SPECIAL — Kinderkidz-usa. for supervisory positions: athletics/tennis, coming out and strategies for building support com in Watertown is offering day care for waterfront, visual/performing arts, outdoor TRAVEL networks. For more information, e-mail retreat@ school schedule only. Limited-time discount education. Learn more and download your glsenmassachusetts.org or call 617.68.GLSEN. offered; excellent references; E.E.C. Licensed application by visiting www.cohencamps.org or FEBRUARY VACATION WEEK — 2/16-24: care; healthy meals offered; age-appropriate call 781.489.2070. Competitive salaries, tuition Sorrento/Rome, Tuscany, Italy. All/most CURRICULUM ENRICHMENT activities; daily excursions to local libraries and benefits for staff children, Jewish (kosher, meals, full sightseeing, fully escorted, more. Please call Rachael at 617.592.6643. pluralist) and welcoming to all. first-class hotels and RT flights. 2/15-23: DESKTOP-SIZE ACTIVITY MAPS! LARGE Rome city stay, breakfasts, orientation tour. HANDS-ON SIZE: 16”x20.” Helping support EMPLOYMENT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT All-inclusive resorts (Cancun & Dominican the Massachusetts social studies curriculum Republic), cruises/flights. Group/leader for more than 22 years with over 80 maps and NEED ADDITIONAL INCOME? Could you GRADUATE PROFESSIONAL special or individual travel arranged. a wide range of topics. Students complete the provide room, board and tutoring for a DEVELOPMENT CERTIFICATE IN K-12 Call Durgan Travel at 781.438.2224 or visit maps and learn by doing! Call Maps for the foreign student of English in your own ONLINE TEACHING — Moodle-based www.durgantravel.com. Classroom toll-free at 888.876.6277 or visit home (within two hours of Boston)? Pay program for teachers. Total of 12 graduate www.mapsfortheclassroom.com. from $550 per student per week. More info: credits. Completely online. Developer-enhance APRIL VACATION WEEK — 4/12-20: http://www.HLI-HostFamilies-Boston.com your Moodle experience. Offered by The Taormina, Sicily, Ireland. 4/13-21: IN-SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS — Hands-on Contact: [email protected]. Learning Curve Consortium in partnership Tuscany/Rome, Rome/Florence/Tuscany/ Geography. Grades 1 and 2, Map Skills and with Framingham State University. Visit Venice, Italian Riviera, Paris/Normandy, Habitats; 3rd, Map Skills, Massachusetts WANT TO TEACH ENGLISH IN CHINA IN http://tlcmoodle.imgsoftware.com or e-mail London+Countryside/Lake Como-Switzerland/ Geography; 4th and 5th, Map Skills, North SUMMER 2013? The Sino-American Bridge [email protected]. Emilia Romagna/Adriatic Coast. All/most America and United States Regions; 6th and for Education and Health (SABEH) seeks meals, full sightseeing, fully escorted, 7th, World Geography. Colonial School, experienced teachers. Teachers in all subject ENJOY A CREATIVE WRITING CLASS AND first-class hotels, RT flights. Group/leader Professional Development, social studies/ areas welcome to apply. Five weeks. Room and EARN PDPs — Gotham Writers’ Workshop, a specials. Call Durgan Travel at 781.438.2224 or visit www.durgantravel.com. Paid Advertisement YEAR-ROUND TRAVEL — Durgan Travel, an award-winning tour operator, has a full schedule of all/mostly inclusive tours from now through 2013, including jet tours and cruises (domestic and international). We have the highest-value, best-priced tours in the industry! Group/leader special promotions. Call Durgan Travel at 781.438.2224 or toll-free at 800.234.9959 or visit www.durgantravel.com.

PLEASE ALLOW US TO BE OF TRAVEL SERVICE — Individual/small groups: We arrange vacations with the best rates and service on jet or cruise vacations. Groups: absolutely highest value, lowest prices, flexible group leader remuneration. Call Durgan Enrich Your Career at Northeastern University Travel, Stoneham, Mass., at 781.438.2224 Gain the knowledge, skills, and perspective you need to move ahead or toll-free at 800.234.9959. Check out our website, www.durgantravel.com.

MAT and Licensure Programs Master of Education (MEd) VACATION RENTALS • Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) • Higher Education Administration - Elementary Education Licensure (I) • Learning and Instruction - Secondary Education Licensure (I) • Special Education CAPE COD, OCEAN EDGE RESORT, • Special Education (Moderate Disabilities) (I,P) Doctor of Education (EdD) BREWSTER, MASS. — Perfect vacation resort • Science (P) • Curriculum, Teaching, Learning, and Leadership setting. Spacious, nicely appointed villa; spiral • Higher Education Administration • Principal Licensure staircase to large loft; two baths, sleeps six. • Jewish Education Leadership • Organizational Leadership and Communication Excellent location within resort, steps from indoor/outdoor pools, tennis. Nearby I = Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure beaches, shopping, bike trails and more. P = Leads to Professional Teacher Licensure Classes start on January 7, February 19 and April 8. Owned/offered by MTA member. Summer weekly; off-season weeks or weekends. Learn More Today 413.594.4056, [email protected]. www.northeastern.edu/cps/edu 1.877.668.7727 ARUBA — Ocean-front condo for rent Jan. 5 -12. Contact [email protected].

Fall 2012 25 NEW LOW RATES As AN educAtor, you Need to be No-NoNseNse. We thiNk your iNsurANce compANy does too.

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26 Fall 2012 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:

Q EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT FOR MTA MEMBERS* Q Member-focused team ready to help build a policy tailored to meet your needs Q Excellent service, expert advice and unparalleled protection *Member discount is available to Massachusetts residents only. Q 10-minute no-obligation coverage review Product availability, services and discounts vary by states; our commitment to MTA members does not. EIA is a member of The Hanover Insurance Group. Call EIA today at 888.908.6822 to learn more! Underwritten by Citizens Insurance We’re available to answer your insurance policy questions and to provide you with outstanding Company of America and The Hanover Insurance Company, service from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays. companies of The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (www.hanover.com) LC 12-302 Or visit us at educatorsinsuranceagency.com

Fall 2012 27 v i s i t u s at : Volume 43, No. 2 Fall 2012 massteacher . o r g Official Publication of the Massachusetts Teachers Association

t w i t t e r . c o m / massteacher

f a c e b o o k . c o m / massteacher

y o u t u b e . c o m / massteacher

f l i c k r . c o m / mtacommunications

Team efforts boost student achievement By Bob Duffy

orth Andover reading teacher Julie Nally knows that instilling a love of books in N children is vital to their success in school and in life. She not only practices her craft with students in the classroom, but also with her son, Colin, at home. “Reading has always been a very important, fun and bonding part of our lives,” said Nally, who teaches elementary students at the Pvt. Albert E. The grand prize winners of the 2012 MTA Red Sox Reading Thomson School. She noted that she always picks Game drew cheers from the fans at Fenway Park prior to some books that she and Colin can read together, as the Sox’ Sept. 8 game against the Toronto Blue Jays. From well as others they can each read on their own and left to right above, they are Savannah Sugar of Wayland, then talk about. Brooke Adams of Ashby, Ryan Price of West Springfield, More generally, she said, reading with Colin Nally of Georgetown and Aidan Ross of Uxbridge. children “provides wonderful opportunities for MTA Vice President Tim Sullivan and team mascot Wally rich discussions about issues that arise in the the Green Monster are standing with them on the baseball books and allows us to make connections between field. In another development related to the association’s characters, themes and conflicts in stories.” That, in efforts to promote student achievement, rookie Jared turn, improves comprehension and builds a path to Sullinger is joining the MTA Boston Celtics Honor Roll achievement. program team this year. The program, which encourages Not surprisingly, Nally, like many other students to get good grades and attend school every day, includes a limited number of buy-one, get-one-free Massachusetts educators, makes good use of the tickets to Celtics games. Superstar Rajon Rondo is also a annual MTA Red Sox Reading Game, which keeps spokesman for the effort. thousands of students at the books each summer Photos by Bob Duffy — helping them maintain their skills during a time when many have been known to lose traction in to a home game at Fenway Park, as do the educators season for literacy, even when the Red Sox have a their studies. The contest — in which students in whose names they include on the entry forms, which tough year, as was the case in 2012. kindergarten through eighth grade pledge to read must be signed by parents or guardians. Five of In the fall, the efforts continue, as the MTA nine books over the summer in order to have a the 100 win the top prize, which means they get to joins another home team to provide the MTA Boston chance to win free tickets to a Red Sox game — is as participate in a ceremony on the baseball field. Celtics Honor Roll, which encourages students to enjoyable as it is educational. For more than a decade now, the MTA and the keep up school attendance and achieve in other ways. Nally takes advantage of the opportunity in her Sox have run the reading game as a way to highlight As far as Nally is concerned, such efforts are household even as she promotes it to her students. summer reading, enhance student pride and build always worthwhile. Even as children get older, Over the summer, she and her son decided they support for public education. Tens of thousands of she said, it is important to continue the practice of would read Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Harry Potter children have read hundreds of thousands of books reading together. together as part of the reading game. over the years. “It’s really a ‘win-win’ opportunity to read for The effort not only brought knowledge and fun, More recently, a companion program has been pleasure,” she said. but also led to a reward: Nally said she was “blown added through which educators can be nominated The reading game and the MVE program are away” when she received a call informing her that for recognition during Saturday home games. The both expected to be back in 2013. Meanwhile, please her own son was one of the contest’s five grand prize Hanover Insurance Group Foundation is the principal contact Boston Celtics staff member Chrissy Cronin winners. sponsor for both the reading game and the MTA Red for information on the MTA Boston Celtics Honor Each year, 100 of the children’s reading pledge Sox Most Valuable Educator program. Roll program. She can be reached by e-mailing cards are drawn at random. The winners get tickets That combination makes every season a winning [email protected] or calling 617.854.8034.

28 Fall 2012 The VOLUME 25 / NUMBER 1 / FALL 2012 MTA Advantage

The MTA Advantage is a publication of MTA Benefits, a subsidiary of the Massachusetts Teachers Association Make it a WOW winter Capture the exhilaration of winter at New England ski country. Soaring some of the season’s most exceptional mountains, snow-laden pines, glorious venues. Take off for a grand ski resort or alpine runs, après ski dinner and drinks by take in a world-famous winter carnival. These a glowing fireplace – they’re all part of the are some of the special ways you can make it ambience of New England’s great ski country. a WOW winter. And when you go, make Sunday River in Bethel, Maine, is one your travels even more rewarding by example of what awaits you. A grand resort saving money with MTA discounts. that’s a favorite with skiers, Sunday River spreads across eight interconnected mountain Discover these exciting events peaks with 133 trails and 743 acres – three the Boston Common. View the latest exhibits and places: miles of what the resort claims is “the best skiing and snowboarding on earth.” at the Museum of Fine Arts or the Isabella Quebec Winter Carnival, Feb. 1-17. Whatever your ski level, Sunday River offers Stewart Gardner Museum, both of which Launched in 1955, the Quebec Winter the perfect terrain – from long, challenging offer MTA discounts. Use the online Access Carnival is the largest celebration of its slopes with steeps and glades high on the discount program for discounts at popular kind in the world. You’ll see enormous and mountains to scenic midway intermediate restaurants such as The Wine Cellar and elaborate snow sculptures, an extravagant runs to gently sloping beginner trails on the Elephant & Castle (20 percent of f at both). ice palace, glittering night parades, exciting lower third of the mountains. Most trails are And for the grand finale, enjoy a holiday concerts, dog-sled races and other carnival lighted for 12-hour skiing. Also enjoy trendy show or concert downtown at one of Boston’s activities that are set against the dramatic restaurants, outlet shopping and exploring fine theaters – at an MTA discount. backdrop of Quebec City. Take time to the charming town of Bethel. MTA members explore the city, too. See Old Quebec, with get a $10 discount on a regular-price one-day its narrow streets and unique shopping; Place lift ticket. For more information, visit BEFORE YOU GO Royale, the birthplace of French civilization www.mtabenefits.com, click on “Discount in North America; the fortified city walls; Directory,” then click on the Ski & Check out the MTA Discount Directory at and other unique sights. Dine in restaurants Snowboard discount category. www.mtabenefits.com for information on: steeped in tradition and famous for distinctive local cuisine. And stay at one of the Holidays in the city. Boston is the ultimate »Discounts for hotels, ski resorts, rental cars, many well-appointed hotels where you urban destination fora holiday celebration. theater tickets, concerts, retail shopping get a discount through MTA Benefits. Stroll the festively decorated Public Garden, and many other travel-related services (See www.mtabenefits.com for details.) shop for holiday gifts at stylish stores on For information on the winter carnival, Newbury Street and at Copley Place and »Discounts through ACCESS for shopping, visit www.carnaval.qc.ca/en. see thousands of holiday lights illuminate dining out, entertainment and more

Members Shown here are just a few of the participants in the last MTA Annual Meeting of Delegates. By actively taking part in the MTA, delegates who attend the Annual Meeting contribute to helping the success of the organization by bringing to it their energy, excitement and interest in the issues important to their local associations and the MTA membership at large. We at members MTA Benefits applaud their dedication to helping other members. Make 2013 the year to save – and start with ways to save in 2013 these 13 NEW MTA programs and products, all 13 of which offer you exclusive member discounts:

Follow the money. See where your Be entertained. As an MTA member, 8 money is going and how to manage your 11 you can save $10 on tickets from finances with American Credit Counseling ArtsEmerson: The World on Stage at Service. The $45 debt-management program Emerson College for productions at the fee is waived for MTA members. Members Cutler Majestic Theater or Paramount Center also receive a FREE consultation with a in Boston. Certain restrictions apply. For Join for fun and fitness. Receive a personal certified financial or residential information, visit www.artsemerson.org. 1 20 percent MTA discount on all annual housing counselor. Visit www.accs.org for fitness and fitness/tennis combined member- more information. Buy books at big discounts. Get a ships at The Longfellow Clubs (Wayland and 12 20 percent discount on all books and a 30 Natick). Visit www.longfellowclubs.com. Keep your eyes on this. MTA percent discount on New York Times current 9 members receive a 10 percent discount be stsellers at the New England Mobile Look! Eyewear at up to 78 percent on no-blade LASIK surgery or PRK Book Fair in Newton Highlands. Log on to 2 off. With Your Optical Shop, you can (Photo-Refractive Keratectomy) at the www.nebookfair.com for more information. go online for big discounts on high-quality NorthEast Laser Center in West eyeglasses, sunglasses and accessories. Visit Springfield. For more information, Get well. MTA members can purchase www.youropticalshop.com. visit www.northeastlaser.net. 13 a 10-class card for $45 (a $150 value) from Breathe Wellness Inc., which can be Read all about it. Stop in at the Used Save electronically. As an MTA used for yoga, meditation and Zumba classes. 3 Book Superstore (which has locations 10 member, you can save 5 percent on Visit www.breatheinwellness.com. in Burlington and Danvers and in Salem and almost everything from appliances and Nashua, N.H.) on Wednesdays and receive a televisions to camerasand computers at Find all of the NEW MTA discounted programs 20 percent discount on all used books. Also Abt Electronics. For more information, and listings at www.mtabenefits.com. Click on ask about the Get Books for Your Classroom visit www.abt.com/corp/mta. program. For more information, visit “Discounts,” then “Discount Directory Updates.” www.usedbooksuperstore.com.

Get a geek. Having computer problems?

4 Contact Geek Handyman Computer More than 1,000 ways 2013 August – 2012 September Services for on-site or remote technician support and receive a $25 MTA discount as to save in the 2012-2013 Benefits a first-time customer. For more information, & Discount visit www.geekhandyman.com. MTA Benefits & Directory Go for water thrills. MTA members 5 receive a $10 half-day or $20 full-day Discount Directory discount from Tributary Whitewater Tours rafting trips throughout California. See www.whitewatertours.com. Save up to thousands of dollars in 2013 – and every year – when you shop Fish for savings. MTA members and 6 guests can receive a $20 discount on with the MTA Benefits & Discount weekday half-day fishing trips conducted by Directory you recently received. You’ll Adventures at Yankee Fleet Deep Sea Fishing in Gloucester. Free parking is find discounts on everything from provided. Call 800.942.5464 or e-mail clothing to concerts, theater to travel [email protected] for information. and mortgages to museums. For Now hear this! You or your immediate example, cut wirele ss costs with 7 family members can receive a free hearing screening and a 20 percent discount on T-Mobile and get magazines at hearing instruments through the Beltone discounts of up to 90 percent. VIP Hearing Program. To learn more or find a location near you, visit Check out your printed directory www.beltone.com/MTA-program.aspx. or visit www.mtabenefits.com. mtabenefits.com

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 THE SHOPPER’S CALENDAR Timely ideas for shopping and Tip Sheet traveling using MTAB discounts

JANUARY MAY Make a resolution to have a year of Make sure your teenager gets safely to good times by: the prom and back with: • Enjoying free and discounted events • A chauffeured limousine from Boston Limo for MTA members (“What’s New” at at a 5 percent to 10 percent discount www.mtabenefits.com). (www.bostonlimo.com).

Give a graduation gift to remember: FEBRUARY • An award-winning Bose® Wave® music system at a significant discount Get away for the school vacation to: (800.905.1538). • A white sandy beach in the Bahamas (deals at the MTA Vacation Center, www.MTAvacations.com). JUNE Send a gift to Getting married? your valentine: Wear the perfect • Luscious chocolate gown: candy from A • A custom-made dress Chocolate Dream at by Simply Bridal at a 10 percent discount. a 15 percent discount (www.achocolatedream.com). (www.simplybridal.com). NOVEMBER Invited to an out-of-town Get supplies for holiday decorating and MARCH wedding? Book your hand-made cards: hotel: • Silk flowers, art supplies, table décor and Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day – in Dublin: • Great accommodations much more at A.C. Moore at a 15 percent • With a Go-Ahead Tours package at a at a discount (“Hotel Discounts” at discount on regular and sale merchandise $150 discount (www.MTAvacations.com). www.mtabenefits.com). (www.acmoore.com). Celebrate Thanksgiving where it all began: APRIL JULY • Plimoth Plantation and Mayflower II; Celebrate spring with: $5 discount on admission cost for a Shop for summer fun: combination ticket. (Discount does not • A fragrant floral bouquet at a 25 percent • MTA discounts at Six Flags New England, apply to optional Thanksgiving dinner. For discount through fromyouflowers.com. SeaWorld and other popular theme parks dining reservations, visit www.plimoth.org.) (“Theme Parks” at www.mtabenefits.com). • A delightful dish garden from Wayside Florists at a 15 percent discount • Discounted camping and canopy tours (www.waysideflorists.com). (“Great Outdoors” in the Discount DECEMBER Directory section of www.mtabenefits.com). Consider these holiday gift ideas: AUGUST It’s time for back-to-school shopping: • Elegant 14K gold earrings for her at a 10 percent discount from Long’s Jewelers • Outlet discounts plus a VIP Coupon Book (www.longsjewelers.com). for MTA members at Wrentham Village Premium Outlets and Lee Premium Outlets • A stylish watch for him from Seiko, The (www.premiumoutlets.com/wrentham Company Store, with $20 off a purchase of and www.premiumoutlets.com/lee). $100 or more (508.384.6583).

For information on all deals and discounts, look through your Benefits & Discount Directory or visit www.mtabenefits.com.

3 Best time to save: as early as possible

“ s a teacher of mathematics, I stress the importance of starting “Also, if you take out about $100 a to save at an early age and continuing to save on a regular month, you don’t notice that much of Abasis until retirement,” said Frank Coutinho, a member of the a difference in your take-home pay,” Middleboro Education Association. “I use a graph to demonstrate he said. “Yet it adds up significantly to my students how money compounds exponentially when it is and can be an important part of your invested at a certain percentage rate over a period of time. The financial resources at retirement.” results are dramatic.” Coutinho’s wife, who started saving Coutinho follows his own philosophy. “I invested in a tax-sheltered when she was in her 20s, expects annuity through MTA Benefits soon after I joined MTA about seven to have $1.5 million when she reaches Frank Coutinho, Middleboro years ago,” he said. He pointed out that automatically deducting the retirement age. Education Association contribution amount from each paycheck makes it easy to invest. For information on a tax-sheltered annuity through MTA Benefits, visit www.mtabenefits.com.

MEMBER INSIGHT ‘ I not only use MTA Benefits – oAnn Evans, a fourth-grade teacher Jand member of the Scituate Teachers I tell colleagues Association, spoke enthusiastically about about MTAB.’ refinancing her home last year through JoAnn Evans Greenpark Mortgage, partner in the MTA Home Mortgage Program. “The service was excellent,” she said. “I gave them parameters and they came back with a 30-year fixed rate that significantly lowered my monthly payments. The Greenpark loan officer was very attentive and responsive, making the process unexpectedly easy.” Evans also saves through MTAB with hotel discounts, free or reduced admission to museums and other benefits. “I’ve suggested to colleagues that they visit the amazing Peabody Essex Museum in Salem. It’s free for MTA members (a $20 savings) – including entrance to Ying Yu Tang, an 18th-century Chinese merchant’s house transported from China and reassembled at PEM,” Evans said.

She added, “I look frequently through the MTA Benefits & Discount Directory. There are always discounts I can use, such as those at both Ann Taylor Loft and Banana Republic. I think it’s fantastic that MTA Benefits is working hard to bring so many benefits to members.”

Scenes from the Annual MTA Retired Gathering on September 27

All program and pricing information was current at the time of publication (October 2012) and is subject to change without notice. To find out what may have changed, please call MTA Benefits at 800.336.0990. 4