Immediate Release

May 12, 2012
Contact: Michele Prater
614-227-3071; cell 614-378-0469

OSU Law Professor Dan Tokaji speaking on the need for redistricting reform

Columbus – By an overwhelming majority, the OEA Representative Assembly voted to approve a one-time dues assessment to help fund the effort to gather petition signatures and support of the Voters First initiative to amend the Ohio Constitution on redistricting and reapportionment. 

The Voters First’s proposal will create an Independent Citizens Commission.  Politicians, lobbyists and political insiders are prohibited from serving on the commission. The Commission’s work will be open and it will be accountable to the public.  The Commission will empower voters to choose their politicians instead of politicians picking their voters.

Dan Tokaji, law professor from OSU, who addressed the Assembly said,  “Letting politicians draw their own district lines is like letting foxes guard the henhouse.” 

In order to qualify for the election this fall, the coalition behind Voters First needs to collect over 386,000 valid signatures by July 4. 

“This November voters can take the power out of the hands of the politicians and put it back where it belongs — in the hands of the people, and OEA is proud to join this effort,” said OEA President Patricia Frost-Brooks. “Together we can stop the politicians, and we can do it now – in time for the 2014 elections.”

The Ohio Education Association represents 124,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

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Information on independent analysis of the Dayton Daily News data and methodology is available by contacting OEA’s spokesperson, Michele Prater, 614-227-3050 office, 614-378-0469, cell.

The Ohio Education Association Reacts to Dayton Daily News Story

Probability formulas used to fuel broad-brush suspicions on testing

Columbus – The Dayton Daily News and Cox Newspapers have published articles pointing to “spikes and drops” in some Ohio standardized test results as signs of widespread cheating. In interviews with the Ohio Education Association and extensive exchanges of data, the Dayton Daily News has not submitted any new or actual evidence of irregularities or cheating. Instead, the newspaper has selected the wrong data and applied a gravely flawed analysis to reach its own foregone conclusion on cheating, OEA believes.

“This story has significant flaws both in the selection of data and in its overall conclusions,” said OEA President Patricia Frost-Brooks. “Cheating is wrong, and individuals who cheat must be held accountable. But it is wrong for the Dayton Daily News to use questionable statistical methods to allege widespread cheating. This story is yet another example of how high-stakes testing has shortchanged students, teachers and Ohio’s public schools in too many ways for far too long,” Frost-Brooks said.

“We must focus back on what really matters – providing all students the world-class public school education they deserve, and making sure all our teachers have the resources and support to ensure student success. Our teachers care deeply about the success of our students.

“The Dayton Daily News and its flagship affiliate, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, have sought to raise suspicions about widespread cheating on standardized tests nationwide, using data and methodologies that independent researchers have found extremely questionable.”

OEA has more information and background on the story, including the results of an independent statistical review of the Dayton Daily News research data and methodology that suggest the study may reveal more about the relative wealth of school district attendance areas, or about the tendency of students in urban schools to move frequently from one school to another, not irregularities or cheating.
 
OEA strongly urges other news media and policy makers to question the Dayton story and data, and to pursue independent verification and analysis before commenting.
 
The Ohio Education Association represents 124,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

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For Immediate Release                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          March 13, 2013
For More Information Contact:
Michele Prater
614-227-3071 or 614-378-0469
 

The Ohio Education Association Reacts to Kasich’s Comments:

Cleveland Plan Ignores What’s Best for Students
 

COLUMBUS – Governor Kasich previewed some education initiatives he intends to include in his mid-biennium state budget review which he will unveil Wednesday, including the so-called “Cleveland Plan.” The following can be attributed to Ohio Education Association President Patricia Frost-Brooks:
 
The Ohio Education Association (OEA) strongly supports the Ohio Federation of Teacher’s (OFT) assessment that the so-called “Cleveland Plan” being aggressively pushed by Governor Kasich ignores what is best for students. Instead, the plan looks more like a replay of Senate Bill 5, with a renewed effort to scapegoat teachers by attacking collective bargaining rights and silencing classroom professionals. The OEA stands with the OFT in urging State Board of Education members not to accept the so-called “Cleveland Plan,” especially under the compressed timetable being pushed by Governor Kasich. A plan that is hastily considered and that lacks any collaboration with teachers whatsoever does not serve the best interest of students in Cleveland, or anywhere in Ohio.

The Ohio Education Association represents 124,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.
 

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For Immediate Release March 7, 2012

For More Information Contact:
Julie Newhall
614-227-3050
 

10 OEA MEMBERS ON NOVEMBER BALLOT FOR GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Columbus, OH - Ten members of the Ohio Education Association are on the November ballot for the Ohio House of Representatives and Ohio Senate, following Tuesday’s primary election.

Yesterday, OEA member candidate, Donna O’Connor defeated David Robinson and David Donofrio in the race for the Democratic nomination in the 21st Ohio House District. O’Connor is a 19-year veteran teacher at Dublin Coffman High School and a leader in the Dublin Educators’ Association.

“Ohio’s teachers and education support professionals understand the need for lawmakers who create and vote on legislation that values, respects and supports all Ohioans and sustains and supports a public education system where students learn and thrive,” said OEA President Patricia Frost-Brooks.

“In yesterday’s election, OEA members sent a message to the statehouse that we are committed to electing representatives who understand and support public education in Ohio,” she said. “OEA is proud to stand with these candidates who share our commitment to transforming our teaching profession and to the success of every child.”

Other OEA members on the November ballot are:
Tanyce Addison, retired, Elgin Education Association, Senate District 26
Jeffrey Bunck, retired, Anthony Wayne Education Association, House District 47
Judith Cross, retired, Brunswick, House District 69
Michael Kassalen, Little Miami Teachers Association, House District 62
Matt Lark, Norwalk Teachers Association, House District 57
John Patterson, Jefferson Area Teachers Association, House District 99
Maureen Reedy, Upper Arlington Education Association, House District 24
Teresa Scarmack, Logan Education Association, Senate District 20
Bill Young, Clyde Springs Education Association, House District 88

Recent elections made clear the need for greater educator involvement in the political process. Personal involvement in the fight against Senate Bill 5 (SB 5) encouraged these OEA members to enter the political arena as candidates dedicated to strengthening communities, the economy, public education and opportunities for successful futures for Ohio children.

“Our member candidates have been leaders in their schools, unions and communities, and they will be leaders in Ohio’s Statehouse,” OEA’s Frost-Brooks said. “Please support these ten OEA members as they continue their statehouse races and remember to vote for them on November 2.”

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The Ohio Education Association represents 124,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.
 

http://www.pfaw.org/press-releases/2012/02/alecs-grip-the-ohios-legislature-puts-corporations-above-people

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 6, 2012

CONTACT:
Justin Greenberg, PFAW Foundation | jgreenberg@pfaw.org / 202-467-4999
Mary Boyle, Common Cause | mboyle@commoncause.org / 202-736-5716
Lisa Graves, Center for Media and Democracy | lisa@prwatch.org
Bret Thompson, Progress Ohio | bret@progressohio.org

ALEC’s Grip on Ohio’s Legislature Puts Corporations Above People

New Report Documents Influence of American Legislative Exchange Council in Columbus

COLUMBUS, OH - A new report released today by People For the American Way Foundation, Common Cause, the Center for Media and Democracy and Progress Ohio reveals the deep ties between the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) and Ohio’s legislature. Through a side-by-side comparison of ALEC legislative models and actual Ohio bills, the report shows how Ohio’s legislators are working in tandem with corporate leaders to deregulate key industries, privatize education and dismantle unions.
 
The report, ALEC in Ohio: The Corporate Special Interests that Help Write Ohio’s Laws, is available here.
 
"It's appalling to find out just how large a role corporate special interests play in writing Ohio's laws,” said Brian Rothenberg, Executive Director of ProgressOhio. “ALEC and their Ohio legislators are well aware how outraged the public would be, which is why the entire operation is cloaked in secrecy.”
 
“A bill to require a picture ID to vote was nothing more than a solution in search of a problem,” said Pat Clifford, an organizer for Common Cause in Ohio.  “We knew immediately that the effort did not originate in Ohio, and that ALEC was pushing it from behind the scenes.”
 
“Under a shroud of secrecy, ALEC provides wealthy corporations a voice and a vote at our lawmakers’ table,” said Marge Baker, Executive Vice President at People For the American Way Foundation.
“These special interests are drowning out the voices of the citizens of Ohio and Americans across the country. As a result, ordinary people are suffering from policies that transfer the public’s resources into a few private hands and leave American citizens in the dust.”
 
“Ohio is led by ALEC alum John Kasich, who has long advanced the agenda of ALEC corporations to the detriment of American citizens during his time in Congress and now in the statehouse in the Buckeye state,” said Lisa Graves, Executive Director of the Center for Media and Democracy. “We applaud the work of Progress Ohio and the other citizen groups that have worked to expose the way Ohio’s laws are being distorted to aid the global corporations that back ALEC, including efforts to push a privatization agenda that takes funding for public services and buildings made possible by hardworking taxpayers and converts these public assets into profit streams for some of the richest corporations in the world.  Ohioans rebuked Kasich for advancing the ALEC corporation agenda last year, and we expect his extremist agenda will be rebuked yet again.”
 
The report demonstrates ALEC’s policymaking influence with an in-depth analysis of the organization’s ties to key Ohio lawmakers, as well as a side-by-side comparison of nine ALEC “model” bills and actual Ohio legislation, including:

• Attacks on workers by severely limiting collective bargaining, eliminating public employment through outsourcing and privatizing government functions;
• Diminishing public education through private school voucher programs and private scholarship tax credits;
• Encouraging the privatization of state prisons to benefit the private prison industry;
• Voter suppression bills designed to disenfranchise thousands of eligible Americans;
• Draconian anti-immigrant measures that criminalize undocumented workers and penalize their employers;
• Creation of barriers for consumers and injured parties in seeking justice from corporations in a court of law;
• Measures to prevent implementation of health care reform.

 
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For Immediate Release
February 7, 2012

Contact: Michele Prater
614-227-3071; cell 614-378-0469

The Ohio Education Association Reacts to Governor John Kasich’s State of the State Address

COLUMBUS – Today Governor John Kasich gave his second State of the State address. The following can be attributed to Ohio Education Association President Patricia Frost-Brooks:

“We appreciate the Governor’s call for wider access to preschool, job opportunities and educational opportunities, but he ignored the school funding crisis affecting school districts throughout Ohio, which lost $2.9 billion in the Governor’s last state budget.

“All of us are accountable for our student’s success, including teachers, students and parents. But only the Governor and state legislators can provide the funding and programs for our students to succeed, and they must be held accountable for school cutbacks in so many Ohio communities.

“The Governor’s speech today continued to support higher funding for private school vouchers and charter schools at the expense of public schools, where 90% of our students attend. There is no research to back up these programs, which divert money and short-change Ohio students.”

The Ohio Education Association represents 124,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

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PRESS STATEMENT

DEC. 20, 2011

WE ARE OHIO GIVES BACK

DONATES $10,000 TO TOYS FOR TOTS AND $10,000 TO OHIO FOODBANKS

COLUMBUS – In the spirit of the season, We Are Ohio donated $20,000 to two charities Tuesday on behalf of the voters and supporters who came together in a nearly year-long battle to veto Senate Bill 5 by a 61-39 percent margin on Election Day.

Maureen Reedy, 2002 Ohio Teacher of the Year from Upper Arlington, presented a check for $10,000 to Toys for Tots from We Are Ohio.

“We Are Ohio is giving back because we were blessed in our effort to have 2.1 million voters, 1.3 million petition signers and more than 17,000 volunteers send the message throughout Ohio and our nation that we cannot build up our state by tearing down the Middle Class,” Reedy said. “We learned we can accomplish anything if we come together, support and help one another during challenging times.”

“This donation will help put smiles on the faces of thousands of children this holiday season. We want to thank We Are Ohio for their generosity,” said U.S. Marine Sgt. Jose Ranero, who accepted the check on behalf of Toys for Tots.
Leonard Moore, a word processing specialist for Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction’s Division of Parole and Community Services, presented a $10,000 check to the Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks from We Are Ohio.

“We Are Ohio asks our supporters across the state to join us and contribute what they can to their charity of choice. A list of charities can be found at http://www.weareohio.com/giveback and a Facebook status photo for giving back is at http://www.facebook.com/weareohio.”

“Public and private sector employees have a long history of donating to foodbanks across Ohio during the holiday season and all year long. We want to thank We Are Ohio for continuing this tradition of public and private sector employees giving back,” said Lisa Hamler-Fugitt, Second Harvest Foodbanks executive director.

For more information: Contact Dennis Willard, 614.209.8945 or willard.pm@gmail.com
-30-

The analysis, conducted by ETPI consultants William Driscoll and Howard Fleeter, determined that HB 136 could create approximately $480 million in NEW costs for Ohio’s education funding system as the bill’s provisions are phased in over a very short period of time. The additional costs would come as students who already attend private schools suddenly become eligible for taxpayer-subsidized vouchers.

A bill touted by supporters as another education “choice” option for parents and students, HB 136 provides subsidies for parents who will not be making any new choices. The analysis found that the $480 million in new costs would result from the current private school population (based on 2010-11 school year enrollment figures) that would qualify for vouchers and continue as students in a school they were going to attend anyway. So, even if no public school students moved to a different educational “choice” by using a voucher, the state would need to find a way to cover this potential new expenditure.

The ETPI analysis uses U.S. Census Bureau data on Ohio's distribution of family income to estimate how many current private school students could qualify and their voucher level. HB 136 has varying levels of voucher subsidies — from $2,313 to $4,626 — based on family income. Students from families with incomes of up to $95,000 would be eligible. The analysis breaks down the percentage of students that could qualify based on each income category. The $480 million estimate represents the total amount that private school students from all voucher levels could receive.

Ohio already has another statewide voucher/private school subsidy program for students based on the low performance of the public school building they would otherwise attend. About 15,000 students currently receive this subsidy, which costs taxpayers more than $71 million annually. (The $480 million cost is in addition to existing voucher expenses.) In July, the state dramatically increased the cap on how many of those vouchers it would subsidize to 60,000 for the 2012-2013 school year. The new program proposed in HB 136 would also be subject to the 60,000 cap, but the bill provides for that cap to be automatically increased based on student demand in any given year.

The analysis projects that by the 2016-2017 school year the cap could increase enough to include the nearly 140,000 private school students that ETPI estimates would be eligible for a subsidy.

The $480 million figure does not account for any additional students leaving public schools to attend private and parochial schools with the proposed new voucher subsidy, though the bill would allow students in any school district — regardless of the district’s academic performance — to attend a private or parochial school with taxpayer money.

Driscoll and Fleeter indicated that there is no way to predict the exact costs of implementing HB 136 and the actual number of students who would qualify. However, they are confident that their assumptions could closely resemble the effects of the bill if it passes. With the phase-in that allows current private school students to receive vouchers, it is clear there will be significant new costs. If a family’s income qualifies, the assumption must be that it will seek the voucher/subsidy.

With current economic conditions, Ohio’s scarce resources and recent state school-funding cuts, OSBA, OASBO and BASA are concerned about where the additional hundreds of millions of dollars would come from. The state would either need to find revenue to cover the new costs for students not currently in the funding system or pass the costs along to school districts. The associations said that neither of those options bodes well for Ohio’s public education system and its remaining students.

The three organizations have worked hard to mobilize their members around the state in advocacy efforts against HB 136. They have received copies of board of education resolutions and letters opposing HB 136 from nearly 200 school districts, with more coming in every day. The information in the ETPI analysis was commissioned to help school district leaders educate their own legislators about the negative effects HB 136 would have on Ohio public education.

BASA is a nonprofit professional organization of school system leaders, specifically, superintendents, central office administrators, building-level administrators, higher education administrators and faculty, graduate students and other educational personnel.

OASBO is a not-for-profit educational management organization dedicated to learning, using and sharing the best methods and technology of school business administration.

OSBA leads the way to educational excellence by serving Ohio’s public school board members and the diverse districts they represent through superior service and creative solutions.

Columbus – November 8, 2011 -- The Ohio Education Association thanked Ohio voters for their historic and overwhelming support of collective bargaining rights for everyday heroes including 128,000 members of OEA who work in Ohio public schools and colleges. 

“By saying NO to Issue 2, middle class Ohioans sent a message to our leaders, the nation and the politicians who passed Senate Bill 5,” said OEA President Patricia Frost-Brooks. “Ohioans refused to turn their backs on the people who guard our safety and teach our children.”

Ohio voters rejected Issue 2 in a referendum repealing SB 5, the unfair attack on collective bargaining rights of public employees.

“This vote indicates Ohioans not only support public employees, but they also understand that we have been problem solvers and have done so by making more than $1 billion in sacrifices in just the last three years,” said OEA President Frost-Brooks.

“We have made so many sacrifices, and I know we can avoid future conflicts like Senate Bill 5,” said Sophia Rodriguez, a Coldwater Spanish teacher who was active in the Issue 2 campaign. “We need to focus on what matters to our students, like providing field trips, new books and the technologies our students need to compete in a global society. ”

“A better future is possible if we can now come together as Ohioans and work to create rewarding jobs and careers in the public and private sectors all across the state,” said Phil Hayes, a member of the Columbus Education Association who played a key role in the campaign.

“Issue 2 was a purposeful attack on teachers,” said Courtney Johnson, an Ironton teacher who served as the campaign’s advertising spokesperson for teachers. “They said this was about the budget, but it was never about the budget. This was about taking away the rights of middle class Ohioans.”

“For the sake of all Ohioans, the policy makers behind Issue 2 must respond to the results of this election with fairness for public employees and commitment to safety and service toward our communities,” Frost-Brooks said. “Ohio needs and deserves a full-time focus on jobs and the education of students for good jobs and careers.”

The Ohio Education Association is a proud partner of We Are Ohio a citizen-driven, community-based, bipartisan coalition that came together to stop Senate Bill 5, the unfair and unsafe law that would have cost our local communities jobs.

The Columbus plan supports pre-service training to give student teachers high quality practice and support in urban schools, extends the district’s well regarded teacher assistance and evaluation program, and creates high-quality professional learning communities, to encourage networking and ongoing peer to peer learning.

“We support educators and unions that hold themselves accountable for student success,” said Harriet Sanford, President and CEO of the NEA Foundation.  “We are proud of the many accomplishments that Columbus has made over the last year, and we are confident that their deeply focused plan will yield even greater results for teachers, students and the community over the next year.”

“Columbus schools benefit from a collaborative leadership structure that began 21 years ago with the creation of a teacher-administrator reform panel that shares responsibility for reforms and innovations,” said Rhonda Johnson, President of the Columbus Education Association. “During the first year of the NEA Foundation grant, we continued to build on this work, improving teacher effectiveness among the most vulnerable teachers, those in their first and second years, by extending our Peer Assistance and Review Program.”

The Columbus proposal was co-created by the Columbus City Schools and the Columbus Education Association, with support from the United Way of Central Ohio.

“Our workis strengthened by ongoing support from the community,” said Dr. Gene Harris, Superintendent of Columbus City Schools.“In addition to its support of the Columbus partnership’s student teacher training program, Ohio State University provides professional development to the program’s expert teachers who are mentoring their novice peers. The United Way of Central Ohio is supporting home visits, which helps teachers tailor instruction for diverse student populations and encourages parents to be co-educators of their children’s instruction.”

The NEA Foundation also announced that it is funding a second year program in Springfield, MA, and has selected two new sites, Lee County, FL and Omaha, NE, from among more than 14,000 school districts nationwide to participate in its signature Closing the Achievement Gaps Initiative.

Since 2004, the NEA Foundation has invested more than $9 million to support union-district partnerships in eight communities with a common goal: to accelerate the achievement rate for under-achieving low income and minority students. In addition to financial support, the Foundation supports grant recipients with expertise and best practices, gleaned from its work with school districts and evidence-based research.

“When teachers, unions, and communities focus on learning conditions, student performance improves,” Sanford said. “All of the sites we funded have tremendous records of capacity for collaborative reform and prepared exciting and clear proposals for how they will use our investment to close their community’s most pressing student achievement gaps. They join a national network of educators who are eager to share knowledge and experiences around reform.”

Learn more about Columbus’ Peer Assistance and Review Program

The NEA Foundation

The NEA Foundation is a public charity supported by contributions from educators’ dues, corporate sponsors and others who support public education initiatives. We partner with education unions, districts, and communities to create powerful, sustainable improvements in teaching and learning.  For more information, visit www.neafoundation.org.  

Closing the Achievement Gaps Initiative

The NEA Foundation Closing the Achievement Gaps Initiative is an effort to accelerate the achievement rate for under-achieving low income and minority student groups via targeted philanthropy. Our researched-based strategy shows that developing and strengthening partnerships among local unions, school districts, and community organizations creates a powerful force for improving student performance and a vehicle for systemic reform.

Rival Football Coaches Come Together to Fight Issue 2
We Are Ohio previews new radio spot featuring coaches

CANTON— -- Thursday, October 20 -- Head football coaches in a 117-year-old rivalry took a time out today to join forces to help defeat the highly controversial Issue 2. Coaches Ron Johnson of Canton-McKinley High School and Jason Hall of Massillon’s Washington High School held a press conference today to announce their unified opposition to Issue 2 and to urge Ohioans to vote NO on Issue 2.

“Coach Hall and I decided to join teams to defeat Issue 2 because we know that it’s unfair and unsafe. If we don’t defeat Issue 2 on November 8th, we know that it will hurt all of us—every educator, every student and every Ohioan,” said Coach Johnson. “Issue 2 is unfair because it singles out public employees and guts our collective bargaining rights. When educators can’t speak up about class sizes and school safety issues, it hurts our students.”

The proposed Issue 2 would make it harder for firefighters and police to negotiate for adequate crew sizes and for teachers to speak up for smaller class sizes. At the press conference, Coaches Johnson and Hall unveiled a new radio ad titled “Massillon-McKinley.” The 60-second spot is scheduled to hit airwaves, beginning Sunday, Oct. 23, and will run through Game Day on Saturday, Oct. 29. Listen to it at http://weareohio.com/coaches .  

“During football season, there’s not a lot that we agree on. But with Issue 2, there’s no mistaking that this hurts students, hurts educators and hurts the entire community,” said Coach Hall, who also has educators in his family. “It’s time for the politicians to stop targeting us with unfair attacks, so we can concentrate on what’s really important—teaching our kids and next week’s big game.”

The coaches’ unprecedented alliance comes as momentum grows against Issue 2—and one week before the rivals’ annual match-up on the football field, which is expected to draw 22,000 fans from the tri-county area.

Coaches Hall and Johnson were joined by Pam Jackson, president of the Canton Professional Educators’ Association, and Wendy Snodgrass, president of Massillon Education Association. Dozens of other teachers, school employees and community members from Massillon and Canton also were on hand to demonstrate their opposition to Issue 2.

“In our community, we stand up for the people who have our backs—like firefighters, teachers, police, nurses, and other valued public employees,” said Stephanie Hatheway, an English teacher at Washington High School in Massillon, who attended the press conference. “Having Coach Hall put his neck out for us and go against Issue 2 really sends a powerful message that our voices will not be silenced.”

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The Ohio Education Association represents 128,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

 

PAID FOR BY THE OHIO EDUCATION ASSOCIATION, JAMES TIMLIN SECRETARY-TREASURER. 225 E. BROAD STREET, COLUMBUS, OH 43215

Initiative will keep students learning,
educators working  

WASHINGTON- In Thursday’s speech to a Joint Session of Congress, President Obama unveiled his American Jobs Act and further underscored his belief that investing in the American middle class is the surest path to economic recovery.

“President Obama clearly understands that quality education is the key to our nation’s future. He’s putting America’s unemployed construction workers back on the job to help modernize our aging K-12 schools and community colleges,” said NEA President Dennis Van Roekel. “We are pleased and encouraged that the President continues demonstrate his commitment to the success of all students by helping to make sure they have  the best possible learning environment—a key element of quality education.”   

“Obama’s plan to create jobs acknowledges a backlog of repairs in our nation’s 100,000 public schools. As budget funds continue to dwindle, many school districts have been forced to put maintenance on the back burner. In many schools, students are subject to buildings that have poor air quality, unsafe drinking water and inadequate safety systems, including fire alarms and sprinklers.”

 “We’ve heard from our members across the country as they have been returning to school. They are seeing overcrowded classes, and teachers are concerned about how they can provide every student with a well-rounded education when so many programs have been cut,” said Van Roekel. “President Obama is addressing that by including $30 billion in local jobs assistance, which will put educators back where they belong – in their classrooms preparing their students to succeed.”

“Unemployment isn’t just an economic issue – it’s an education issue,” said Van Roekel. “Our members have seen firsthand the devastating impact unemployment is having on our communities and our schools. Too many of our students are coming to schools hungry and without the basic supplies they need as moms and dads struggle to make ends meet.”

“Tonight, President Obama delivered a simple and powerful message to Congress and to the American people – it’s time to put partisan bickering aside and get our country back to work.  There is nothing more urgent for Congress to act on than this plan to create jobs and boost our economy and create opportunity for the nation’s children.  Our members are behind this initiative and will raise their voices in support to Congress, who will hopefully put politics aside and make passing this its priority,” said Van Roekel.     

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 The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional employee organization, representing 3.2 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators and students preparing to become teachers.

Click here to download a summary of findings.

Traditional public school districts continue to provide a vastly better education for students, according to report card data released today by the Ohio Department of Education. Efforts to strengthen accountability for the state's privately operated, publicly funded charter schools in the last few years have led to slightly improved performance by charter schools. While the change does not demonstrate a dramatic trend, the even slight advances due to increased accountability indicate that greater oversight benefits students, noted the Coalition for Public Education.

State report card data shows steady general improvement in traditional public school districts’ ratings with slight improvements in charter schools.

"We are encouraged by the impact that accountability provisions have had on improving the performance of charters since stronger standards were implemented over the last few years. Even given the slight improvements by some charters, traditional public school districts remain the clearly superior option for children," said Barbara Shaner, chair of the Coalition for Public Education.

The Coalition is a statewide alliance of education, parent and civic organizations interested in improving public education for Ohio’s children and increasing accountability to taxpayers.

The report cards, which rate performance for the 2010-2011 school year, show that while strengthened accountability has led to improved performance for some charter schools, there remains a significant drop-off between the highly rated charters and the vast majority of poor-performing charters on Performance Index Scores; whereas the difference in Performance Index scores among public school districts isn’t nearly as vast.

The Performance Index Score is calculated by examining how many students took the achievement assessments and what their scores were, with those who scored higher receiving a greater weight than those who did not. So the higher the index, the more students scored better than normal on the achievement assessments; the lower the score, the more students underperformed.

The Performance Index shows Ohio’s public school districts clearly outperform most charter schools and are more uniformly successful than charter schools. However, there appear to be about two dozen charters (out of 324 rated) that are quite successful and are worthy of further examination. Charter schools still have a long way to go to match the performance of traditional public schools. It is important to note that only 7 percent of charter schools would rate in the top half of traditional public schools on the Performance Index rankings.

"We are encouraged that legislative changes in charter school accountability over the past few years seem to be having a positive impact, but are concerned that loosening those measures – as was done this summer in House Bill 153– will cause these modest gains to be quickly lost," said Ohio PTA President Gloria Cazan.

"This improvement happened with better accountability standards implemented, not the hands off approach lawmakers took in the first 8 years of the charter school program."

Overall, 43 percent of charters still earned failed grades for how they serve students.

"This failure rate is outrageous considering the program has been in place for 14 years and last year alone cost taxpayers $800 million," Shaner said.

Of the 296 ranked charter schools, 5 rate Excellent with Distinction – the state’s top ranking, while 70 rate Effective (equivalent to a B) or better. That means 23.6 percent of charter schools provide an effective education for Ohio’s children, which is slightly better than last year (slightly more than 21 percent) and much better than the previous year’s rate of 7 percent. These improvements occurred during a period of strengthened accountability standards.

• Meanwhile, of the 609 school districts rated on the report card, 567 rate effective or better. That means that more than 93 percent of Ohio's school districts rate effective or better on the report card, an improvement over the 88 percent that rated that well on last school year’s report card.
• A little more than 43 percent of all charter schools rate in Academic Watch (D) or Academic Emergency (F) while more than 57 percent of traditional public school districts rate Excellent (A) or Excellent with Distinction (A+), zero received an F and only 6 received a D rating, the lowest number of D-rated districts since 2005-2006.

Report card ratings also show that graduation is more likely to be in a student's future if he or she is enrolled in a public school district. In general, Ohio’s children are much more likely to graduate from a traditional public school district than a charter school, with barely one-third of charter schools graduating student at a rate that’s higher than the lowest traditional school rate.

MANSFIELD, Ohio, May 21, 2011 -- Ohio Education Association President Patricia Frost-Brooks offered the keynote address at the 26th annual Crystal Life Membership Banquet May 21 at the Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites in Mansfield.

Reflecting the event’s theme, “NAACP: Upholding the American Tradition of Checks and Balances via the Ballot Box,” the OEA leader stressed the importance of voter rights at a time when these very rights are threatened by legislation including Senate Bill 5, the state budget bill, House Bill 153, and House Bill 159, which would require state photo ID for all voters.

“We are not going back to a time before we had collective bargaining rights – indeed, a time before we had our full share of civil rights promised to us,” President Frost-Brooks said. “It is no coincidence that collective bargaining rights are under fire at the same time as our right to vote and our right to equal treatment under the law.”

Frost-Brooks addressed Senate Bill 5 – legislation that repeals Ohio’s collective bargaining law – and the movement to gather signatures to ensure that a citizen veto of Senate Bill 5 is on the November ballot. “This truly is a check and balance system built into the Ohio Constitution,” she said. “We believe we can overturn this legislation. This truly is our chance to make a difference at the ballot box.”

OEA’s President reminded those gathered that Senate Bill 5 is but one threat facing Ohioans.

“The reality is that the budget bill takes another crack at those who serve the public in our cities, hospitals and schools by including many of the same anti-union provisions that exist in SB 5,” she said. “This is a brazen attempt to circumvent the will of the people.”

The proposed Voter ID legislation also threatens civil rights, Frost-Brooks said.  “By requiring a state photo identification card from every voter, HB 159 threatens to disenfranchise hundreds of thousands of Ohio voters. This is pure and simple, an attempt by those in power to take away voting rights from those who lack power and money.”

The Ohio Education Association represents 128,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio’s public schools, colleges and universities.

Click here for a downloadable copy of the prepared remarks of Patricia Frost-Brooks.

For Immediate Release 
Contact: Michele Prater, 614-227-3071; cell 614-378-0469

May 7, 2011 - Columbus, Ohio -- The Ohio Education Association (OEA), representing 128,000 teachers, education support professionals and higher education faculty, today completed its two day Spring Representative Assembly at Veterans Memorial in Columbus.

In his legislative report to the delegates, OEA Vice-President Bill Leibensperger reported on the political nature of the Kasich budget legislation. “Our opponents are ignoring the essentials and instead focusing on political issues. Instead of focusing on jobs, they are killing public jobs through the budget and making it easier to cut the pay and benefits of existing employees through SB 5.”

OEA urges the removal of provisions in the budget bill that are the same or similar to SB 5. Now that the movement to repeal Senate Bill 5 has gained momentum, legislative leaders in the House slipped some of those same controversial provisions from Senate Bill 5 into state budget legislation, House Bill 153.  These provisions include performance-based pay for teachers, changes in teacher contracts, evaluations, reductions in force and restricting collective bargaining for community school employees. Including these SB 5 provisions in the budget circumvents the rights of Ohio voters who should ultimately decide this issue in November.  

Timothy Dove, Ohio Teacher of the Year, told the delegates, “In a democracy, we have a responsibility to be political.”  Larry Davis, Tallmadge music teacher performed his original song Fight for your Rights as President Pat Frost-Brooks led the delegates in an energetic sing-a-long.

In an unprecedented response to this call for action, OEA delegates contributed a record-breaking amount to the Fund for Children and Public Education, OEA’s political action campaign.
The Ohio Education Association represents 128,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.
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OHIO EDUCATION ASSOCIATION (OEA)
HOUSE BILL 153 TESTIMONY BY OEA'S MATT DOTSON
HOUSE FINANCE PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SUBCOMMITTEE
APRIL 7, 2011

Chairman Carey, Ranking Minority Member Lundy, and members of the committee, thank you for the opportunity to speak to you today with regard to House Bill 153.  I am Matthew Dotson with the Ohio Education Association’s Governmental Services Division.  On behalf of our 128,000 members, we look forward to working with you on this important legislation.  The following are some key issues we would like to address:

K-12 SCHOOL FUNDING:

In a tough economy, with Ohio facing a major budget deficit, we must focus on the essentials.  Nothing is more essential than funding a high quality education that prepares our children for good jobs and careers.

Since the state budget proposal does not include a new school funding formula per se, which we are told to expect in FY 13, it is fairly easy to describe the overall impact of the Governor’s plan.  Just over $3.1 billion “all funds” dollars will be cut from public education over the biennium.  All but a handful of districts will lose significant dollars relative to their FY 2011 funding.  With $3.1 billion less, local communities will find it extremely difficult to avoid larger class sizes, reduced course choices and less individual attention for students in nearly every district in Ohio.  Interestingly, current state revenues are $3 billion short of where the estimates on the impact of HB 66 had forecast them to be.  That tax reform, coupled with the impact of a national recession, has left the state far short of the necessary resources to support basic state services that the state currently receives.

To read and download the entire testimony, please click here.

COLUMBUS, March 29, 2011 —  In Columbus and throughout Ohio, OEA members and other public employees denounced the Ohio House’s amended version of Senate Bill 5 as bad legislation made even worse. In addition to approving SB 5 in House committee action today, legislators released thousands of pages of new State Budget language, including 10%-plus cuts to both public schools and state colleges.

“Combined with this state budget proposal, SB 5 will lead to an ongoing crisis in schools and public services for every Ohio community. We believe the people of Ohio will reject SB 5 through a citizens’ referendum,” said OEA President Patricia Frost-Brooks.

“We do not believe the people of Ohio elected leaders with a mandate to cut school funding, take away collective bargaining rights and privatize public schools, but that is the sum effect of legislation now moving so quickly through the Ohio General Assembly.

“Nothing is more essential than creating jobs and providing high quality educational opportunities for children. But our legislators are ignoring and short-changing these essential functions of state and local government and schools,” Frost-Brooks said.

Amendments in the House version of SB 5 are designed to restrict union funding, curb political freedoms of members and impose a one-size-fits-all approach to school districts on performance pay measures.

"These amendments really shine the light on what this bill is all about, which is silencing the voice of people who collectively bargain on behalf of their members, and, in our case, on behalf of the children we work with," OEA Vice President Bill Leibensperger said.

SB 5 is expected to go to a House floor vote Wednesday.  A Senate floor vote to concur with House changes to the bill is expected on Wednesday or Thursday.  If the Senate concurs with House changes to SB 5, the bill would go to the Governor for his signature.

OEA President: ‘Cutting resources to school districts hurts our students’  

COLUMBUS, March 24, 2011 – Today the Ohio Office of Budget and Management released Gov. John Kasich’s recommendations for state foundation aid for school districts for fiscal years 2012 and 2013.

The overall budget plan slashes funding to K-12 education by a total of $3.1 billion over the next two years compared to fiscal year 2011.  The plan also cuts overall funds for higher education by 10.5 percent for fiscal year 2012.

K-12 funding reductions not included in the recommendations released today include reducing tangible personal property tax revenue for schools by $635 million and cutting special education by $400 million over the biennium. It also fails to make up for the $400 million per year in federal stimulus funding that Ohio received in 2011.

“This budget paints an incomplete picture,” says Ohio Education Association President Patricia Frost-Brooks.  “Sleight-of-hand tricks will not cover up the bottom line, which is that Ohio’s public schools will be receiving much less in total state funding than in 2011. 

"In tough economic times and facing a tough budget challenge, we have to focus on the essentials, and that especially includes providing high-quality educational opportunities for students trying to prepare for jobs and careers.

“With $3.1 billion less, local communities will experience larger class sizes, reduced course choices and less individual attention for students in nearly every district in Ohio. We do not believe the people of Ohio elected leaders with a mandate to cut school funding and short-change learning opportunities for their children.”

###

The Ohio Education Association represents 128,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

COLUMBUS – Today Governor John Kasich delivered his two-year budget plan to the Ohio General Assembly. The plan slashes funding to K-12 public education by 11.5 percent, from $11.5 billion in the current year to $10.2 billion next year, ratcheting down to $9.7 billion in fiscal 2013.

“Now we see the sleight of hand. The cut in funding for K-12 next year will mean a real 5% decrease in funding for K-12 public schools overall, counting state, local and federal sources,” said Ohio Education Association President Patricia Frost-Brooks. “This plan takes $3.1 billion from local school districts over two years in order to balance the budget while holding charter schools financially harmless.”

“The Governor has rejected all-day kindergarten as an effort to promote student achievement, and his allies have called smaller class sizes for grades K-3 an unfunded mandate, even though both strategies have solid underlying research about their contribution to student success. Our students are going to lose access to new textbooks, safe facilities and highly qualified teachers in billions of dollars of public school cuts.”

“Instead, the Governor has chosen to bolster and protect charter and voucher programs that serve only 10% of Ohio students, with ample research showing they do not improve the chances for student success,” Frost-Brooks said. “Punishing the other 90% of students who attend traditional public schools will mean larger class sizes, less individual attention, fewer courses in foreign languages and the arts and less opportunity to participate in advanced placement courses.

“We hoped the Governor would focus on the essentials, funding our public schools so they can provide the full and rigorous education that our students deserve,” Frost-Brooks said. “We know that resources are limited, so let’s spend them on funding and improving the schools that 90 percent of Ohio’s students attend.”  

Ohio charter schools currently receive about $710 million per year. Since charter school funds flow through local school districts, precise data on the charter school spending over the next two years is not yet available.

###

The Ohio Education Association represents 128,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

Thousands Protest Senate Bill 5 at Statehouse
Educators join tens of thousands of Ohio workers to protect collective bargaining

COLUMBUS— More than 3,000 OEA members joined more than 15,000 other members of organized labor and other supporters to rally at the Statehouse against Senate Bill 5 on Tuesday during committee hearings on the bill.

Continuing with a third day of testimony regarding Senate Bill 5 (SB5), lawmakers moved  forward with a plan to strip out collective bargaining rights for public sector workers. Educators are concerned that the bill represents a direct attack on working families and the future of Ohio’s students.

OEA has asked legislative leaders to focus on the essentials -- creating jobs and preparing students for careers through a quality public education system, from pre-K through college.

Reiterating the devastating impact SB 5 could have for her members, Ohio Education Association President Patricia Frost-Brooks said “Our members felt that it was vitally important for them to show up and make their voices heard on this stifling legislation.”

“As educators, they are much more comfortable lifting their voices to teach rather than protest, but today they stand on the statehouse grounds united with their fellow public sector workers, determined to fight for what’s right and in the best interest of Ohio’s students,”  Frost-Brooks said.

Educators are concerned that the bill would harm Ohio’s education system by squelching the voice of teachers and support staff who have been the strongest advocates of resources for schools, quality instruction and school improvement strategies. Without their support and advocacy through bargaining, Ohio's middle class would receive yet another blow.

Educators at the rallies and protests throughout Ohio this week -- in Dayton, Youngstown, Canton, Toledo and elsewhere have said SB 5 will:

• Severely curtail a district’s ability to recruit and retain highly qualified teachers for their classrooms,
   
• Severely damage teaching and learning conditions;  leading to over-crowded classrooms and diminished resources for students,
   
• Remove the voice of the education professional and replace highly qualified teachers with others having no classroom experience, and
   
• Unjustly provide for the arbitrary removal of great teachers from the classroom; eliminating provisions for fair dismissal and protection of rights.

While some teachers elected to use personal time to attend the rally, hundreds more joined the ranks of protesters at the last minute when their schools closed due to inclement weather. or after schools closed in the afternoon.

Testimony on the bill, scheduled for the late afternoon, continued into the evening. At last report, thousands of educators continue to pour in from across the state, following a full day in the classroom.

Follow the action through OEA's website and social media:

To learn more about the work that the Ohio Education Association is doing defeat SB 5, visit: www.ohea.org

Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/OhioEducationAssociation

Follow us on twitter www.twitter.com/ohioea or @OhioEA

See OEA members in action throughout Ohio on our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/OhioEdAssoc

COLUMBUS – March 8, 2011 Today Governor John Kasich gave his first State of the State address.

The following can be attributed to Ohio Education Association President, Patricia Frost-Brooks:

 “We welcome the Governor’s commentary on Ohio’s strengths – our cities, public colleges and major businesses, as well as his quest for new jobs for Ohioans. To see what the Governor intends for our pre-k-12 students, however, we will have to wait until his first state budget proposals next week.  For our state to remain strong and become stronger, Ohio will need to invest in high quality public education that develops an educated workforce to help grow our economy.

In his speech, Gov. Kasich acknowledged protesters outside the door of the House Chambers and said he respects those with strong opinions contrary to his own. Unfortunately, as the demonstrators outside the state house pointed out, the governor is also supporting SB5, specifically designed to silence the voices of public workers such as teachers, firefighters, and police. SB 5’s attack on collective bargaining, endorsed by the Governor, would leave school employees very little say in the quality of public education for Ohio’s students and how to make Ohio’s schools the best.

Like the Governor we believe in vigorous public debate on important issues, especially if that belief leads to more open discussions on Ohio’s future and solving our problems in a collaborative fashion. We hope the upcoming discussions will lead to fair-minded budget options, a sensible approach to labor-management collaboration and a legislative program that will strengthen opportunities for students – students preparing for jobs in what we all hope will be a healthier and more successful Ohio economy. “

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

COLUMBUS – March 8, 2011 Today Governor John Kasich gave his first State of the State address.

The following can be attributed to Ohio Education Association President, Patricia Frost-Brooks:

 “We welcome the Governor’s commentary on Ohio’s strengths – our cities, public colleges and major businesses, as well as his quest for new jobs for Ohioans. To see what the Governor intends for our pre-k-12 students, however, we will have to wait until his first state budget proposals next week.  For our state to remain strong and become stronger, Ohio will need to invest in high quality public education that develops an educated workforce to help grow our economy.

In his speech, Gov. Kasich acknowledged protesters outside the door of the House Chambers and said he respects those with strong opinions contrary to his own. Unfortunately, as the demonstrators outside the state house pointed out, the governor is also supporting SB5, specifically designed to silence the voices of public workers such as teachers, firefighters, and police. SB 5’s attack on collective bargaining, endorsed by the Governor, would leave school employees very little say in the quality of public education for Ohio’s students and how to make Ohio’s schools the best.

Like the Governor we believe in vigorous public debate on important issues, especially if that belief leads to more open discussions on Ohio’s future and solving our problems in a collaborative fashion. We hope the upcoming discussions will lead to fair-minded budget options, a sensible approach to labor-management collaboration and a legislative program that will strengthen opportunities for students – students preparing for jobs in what we all hope will be a healthier and more successful Ohio economy. “

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

COLUMBUS – Today Governor John Kasich gave his first State of the State address.

The following can be attributed to Ohio Education Association President, Patricia Frost-Brooks:

 “We welcome the Governor’s commentary on Ohio’s strengths – our cities, public colleges and major businesses, as well as his quest for new jobs for Ohioans. To see what the Governor intends for our pre-k-12 students, however, we will have to wait until his first state budget proposals next week.  For our state to remain strong and become stronger, Ohio will need to invest in high quality public education that develops an educated workforce to help grow our economy.

In his speech, Gov. Kasich acknowledged protesters outside the door of the House Chambers and said he respects those with strong opinions contrary to his own. Unfortunately, as the demonstrators outside the state house pointed out, the governor is also supporting SB5, specifically designed to silence the voices of public workers such as teachers, firefighters, and police. SB 5’s attack on collective bargaining, endorsed by the Governor, would leave school employees very little say in the quality of public education for Ohio’s students and how to make Ohio’s schools the best.

Like the Governor we believe in vigorous public debate on important issues, especially if that belief leads to more open discussions on Ohio’s future and solving our problems in a collaborative fashion. We hope the upcoming discussions will lead to fair-minded budget options, a sensible approach to labor-management collaboration and a legislative program that will strengthen opportunities for students – students preparing for jobs in what we all hope will be a healthier and more successful Ohio economy. “

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

###

Thousands of Teachers Protest Senate Bill 5 at Statehouse
Educators join tens of thousands of Ohio workers in opposing collective bargaining threat

COLUMBUS— More than 3,000 OEA members joined more than 15,000 other members of organized labor and other supporters to rally at the Statehouse against Senate Bill 5 on Tuesday during committee hearings on the bill.

Continuing with a third day of testimony regarding Senate Bill 5 (SB5), lawmakers moved  forward with a plan to strip out collective bargaining rights for public sector workers. Educators are concerned that the bill represents a direct attack on working families and the future of Ohio’s students.

OEA has asked legislative leaders to focus on the essentials -- creating jobs and preparing students for careers through a quality public education system, from pre-K through college.

Reiterating the devastating impact SB 5 could have for her members, Ohio Education Association President Patricia Frost-Brooks said “Our members felt that it was vitally important for them to show up and make their voices heard on this stifling legislation.”

“As educators, they are much more comfortable lifting their voices to teach rather than protest, but today they stand on the statehouse grounds united with their fellow public sector workers, determined to fight for what’s right and in the best interest of Ohio’s students,”  Frost-Brooks said.

Educators are concerned that the bill would harm Ohio’s education system by squelching the voice of teachers and support staff who have been the strongest advocates of resources for schools, quality instruction and school improvement strategies. Without their support and advocacy through bargaining, Ohio's middle class would receive yet another blow.

Educators at the rallies and protests throughout Ohio this week -- in Dayton, Youngstown, Canton, Toledo and elsewhere have said SB 5 will:

• Severely curtail a district’s ability to recruit and retain highly qualified teachers for their classrooms,
   
• Severely damage teaching and learning conditions;  leading to over-crowded classrooms and diminished resources for students,
   
• Remove the voice of the education professional and replace highly qualified teachers with others having no classroom experience, and
   
• Unjustly provide for the arbitrary removal of great teachers from the classroom; eliminating provisions for fair dismissal and protection of rights.

While some teachers elected to use personal time to attend the rally, hundreds more joined the ranks of protesters at the last minute when their schools closed due to inclement weather. or after schools closed in the afternoon.

Testimony on the bill, scheduled for the late afternoon, continued into the evening. At last report, thousands of educators continue to pour in from across the state, following a full day in the classroom.

Follow the action through OEA's website and social media:

To learn more about the work that the Ohio Education Association is doing defeat SB 5, visit: www.ohea.org

Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/OhioEducationAssociation

Follow us on twitter www.twitter.com/ohioea or @OhioEA

See OEA members in action throughout Ohio on our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/OhioEdAssoc

For Immediate Release
February 17, 2011
For More Information Contact: Michele Prater
614-227-3071 or 614-378-0469
 
 

Ohio Educators Call on State Leaders to Stand up for Public Employees
Thousands swarm statehouse to protest Senate Bill 5

 
Columbus OH - Nearly a thousand Ohio Education Association members – the people who teach Ohio’s students, drive their buses, prepare their meals, and care for sick children in school – stood shoulder to shoulder with fellow public employees from across Ohio in response to the state legislature’s attack on public workers.
 
Thousands of teachers and education support professionals have flooded the statehouse this week, raising their voices against a plan to repeal Ohio’s 27-year collective bargaining law. Today, OEA members representing both political parties provided testimony in opposition to Senate Bill 5.
 
OEA members came to the state capitol to demonstrate their belief that in a tough economy, we must focus on the essentials. Nothing is more essential than giving our children a quality education that prepares them for good jobs. 
 
Ohio’s educators know that these are tough times and have made it clear to the governor and legislators that they are prepared to do their part to help our state recover.
 
“This isn’t about protecting pay and benefits – it’s about protecting the right to collectively bargain. Students need their teachers to focus on them and their classrooms, and allowing the union to represent teachers allows them to do what they do best—teach,” said Columbus teacher Philip Hayes, grandson of legendary Ohio State football coach Woody Hayes.
 
“Collective bargaining allows educators a voice in improving opportunities for Ohio’s students, better classroom resources and improved teaching and learning conditions,” said Ohio Teacher of the Year Tim Dove of Worthington.  Without a voice in the schools, without rights to speak up on behalf of students and the education profession, educators are concerned about the future.
 
“Senate Bill 5 would deny Ohio’s public employees the opportunity for discussion and collaboration,” added Dove.  “Ohio public employees are standing together and speaking with a clear, unified voice that this is wrong for Ohio and a tragic distraction from what we should be focusing on: creating jobs and preparing Ohio’s students to fill those jobs.”
 
The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.
 

For Immediate Release
Contact: Michele Prater
614-227-3071; cell 614-378-0469

Ohio Education Association Opposes Senate Bill Five

Legislation will weaken public service to Ohio’s children

On December 4, 2010, the Ohio Education Association (OEA), representing 130,000 teachers, education support professionals and higher education faculty, held its Fall Representative Assembly at Veterans Memorial in Columbus. The theme of the Assembly was, The Future of Ohio: Our Opportunity and Our Mission. The OEA is the eighth largest state affiliate of the 3.2 million-member National Education Association (NEA).

In her remarks to the delegates, OEA President Patricia Frost-Brooks said that she and other OEA officials want to meet with Governor-elect John Kasich to listen to his ideas on public education, including K-12, special education, higher education and overall funding for learning in Ohio. Frost-Brooks emphasized to the more than 1,000 delegates attending that the OEA remains committed to the Ohio Education Opportunity Act, passed as House Bill 1 in July 2009.

 The Ohio Education Opportunity Act is a tough-minded set of challenging reforms that called for everyone involved in public education to change, to do better and to do more,” said Frost-Brooks. “We embraced this legislation. We fought for its passage. And we fought for the funding and implementation efforts that followed. And it fulfilled our highest hopes for public education in Ohio.”

Special guests Governor Ted Strickland and NEA President Dennis Van Roekel echoed Frost Brooks in their remarks.  

Governor Strickland, who signed the Ohio Education Opportunity Act into law in August 2009, stressed the need to hold Ohio policymakers accountable for public education, noting that the legislation is an opportunity to ensure the best possible future not only for students but also for Ohio.

“We are going to take back our profession, and we are going to own education reform,” said NEA’s Van Roekel.

“We know the many challenges ahead in fulfilling the changes of the Ohio Education Opportunity Act,” Frost-Brooks said. “Now it is time to ensure that we fulfill that promise through hard work and enthusiastic implementation.”

The Ohio Education Association is the state’s largest professional employee organization and represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members, and support employees in Ohio’s public schools, colleges and universities.

-30-

For Immediate Release       
September 22, 2010

For More Information Contact:
Michele Prater
614-227-3071 or 614-378-0469

Columbus - Yesterday John Kasich announced the second plank of his three part plan to dismantle education by raising taxes in Ohio. The Ohio Education Association (OEA) is concerned with how this approach will harm Ohio students and its’ members who serve them.

Kasich’s reckless proposal for education is extremely vague, addressing only what he would not do instead of providing a proposal that would strengthen Ohio’s economy and educate the states’ future workforce.

Former Congressman Kasich does not seem to understand what really happens in the classroom. His misguided plan to have Columbus dictate the way local school districts spend their money would force funding cuts for school nurses, bus drivers, janitors and other education professionals who provide vital services to our children.

This announcement follows on the heels of Kasich’s first education proposal to eliminate 40% of state revenue, due to the phase out of the Ohio income tax, resulting in a 30% cut in state education funding.  The combination of these two proposals would force local school districts to dramatically raise taxes just to keep the school doors open.

“As educators, we know what is best for our students, Kasich’s proposal would be devastating to Ohio’s economy and classrooms,” said Patricia Frost-Brooks, president of the Ohio Education Association.  “This proposal returns us to a failed funding model that deprives Ohio’s students and endangers Ohio’s economic future."

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

-30-

Columbus – Ohio Education Association officers congratulated John Kasich on his victory over Governor Ted Strickland.  The following statement can be attributed to OEA President Patricia Frost-Brooks.

We congratulate Governor-elect Kasich on his election and look forward to working with him as he assumes office. We can provide him our perspective on public education policy with advice from the classroom as we work to fulfill the promise of the Ohio Education Opportunity Act, the blueprint for fixing school funding and transforming Ohio public schools.

Now that the election is over, educators and policy makers must work effectively together, identifying common goals to help students achieve and succeed in our public schools, colleges and universities.

For our part, OEA will continue our work, as always, to keep the promises to our students, parents and communities – that we want to provide a great public school for every Ohio student.

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

-30-

From the Ohio Education Association, this statement is from OEA President Patricia Frost-Brooks regarding the just-completed Ohio governor's race debates:

Challenger John Kasich wants to dismantle Ohio’s school funding formula, developed by Governor Ted Strickland as the evidence-based model. But Mr. Kasich has no clear plan to replace the revenue, based on the second gubernatorial debate.

Kasich risks core support for Ohio schools by threatening to repeal the Ohio income tax, source of 30 percent of all school revenues.  Moving ahead with more tax cuts would have cut thousands of public school jobs this school year.

Contrary to Mr. Kasich’s assertions in the debate, there are no unfunded mandates in the education legislation, which we call the Ohio Education Opportunity Act. Mr. Kasich’s plans to add more private school vouchers and expand school choice programs while tinkering with school district shared services cannot restore steady funding to school districts. Nor can it replace the fair and constitutional funding system now being phased in.

By Patricia Frost-Brooks

The author is president of the Ohio Education Association, a statewide union representing 130,000 members in k-12 schools, public colleges and universities and education support professionals.

Now I understand why Governor Ted Strickland wonders about whether John Kasich really likes Ohio. To hear Kasich, Ohio is a high-tax “fly-over state” ignored by business. We are the world headquarters for inept bureaucrats and red tape, stifling business and killing jobs. We’ve heard this all before. But Ohio has already reduced the size of government by 5,000 employees and cut taxes for most of the last eight years. But apparently it all sounds new to Kasich after he spent eight years at Lehman Brothers.

Fortunately, many Ohioans recognize positive signs. Ohio is the sixth-fastest growing economy in the country, with a far lower unemployment rate than supposedly “low-tax” states like Nevada and Florida, which have the top two highest unemployment rates in the country. Ohio schools are fifth best in the country, Education Week reported.

What is the Kasich education plan? Kasich’s web site, stump speech and debate performance all repeat the same tired mantra: Ohio ranks 46th on money for the classroom and 9th among school “bureaucracy.” But that’s old data. Kasich’s statistics on classroom vs. administrative spending come from a report based on 2006 data, before Strickland was governor, not current spending patterns. The stats ignore the new school funding formula, as well as deep administrative cuts at the Ohio Department of Education.

And Kasich has a number of mistaken notions, like those cited by the Columbus Dispatch: “Although Strickland didn’t appear to make any glaring misstatements during a two-hour appearance with Kasich before the Dispatch editorial board Friday, Kasich cited several “facts” that were either wrong or misleading,” the newspaper reported. “They included mistaking Steubenville for Youngstown in criticism of school funding, using budget figures in a questionable way and assigning untrue motives for an Ohio company’s move to Indiana.”

If the road map is wrong, so is the destination. Apparently Kasich feels we must eliminate or consolidate some of Ohio’s school districts to cut administrative costs. But Ohioans like home-rule government and they cherish local control of schools even more. Kasich will find many in Ohio communities proud of their schools and suspicious of reformers who want to bus their kids to high school two hours a day to cut costs. Besides, wasn’t this about revitalizing Ohio communities, not stealing their identity?

Would Kasich cut school budgets to save money for Ohio? Many believe he will simply re-channel that money to charter schools. They don’t perform as well as nearby traditional public schools, but they yield tens of thousands in Republican political contributions. In exchange, Republicans have safeguarded charter and voucher programs that receive $700-$800 million in state aid a year.

For a moment during the debate, I was hoping Kasich would clamp down on inept charter operators as part of his effort to eliminate “special interests with their snouts in the trough.” But few expect Kasich to curb his enthusiasm for major supporters. Still, reducing outlays to failing charters could save more than consolidating a half-dozen rural or small school districts. Maybe we should discuss that first!

Patricia Frost-Brooks

Ohio Education Association

5811 Tuttles Grove Blvd.

Dublin OH 43016

614-227-3071 

Michele Prater

Media Relations Consultant

Ohio Education Association

Columbus OH 43216

614-227-3071 ?  www.ohea.org

 The following statement can be attributed to Ohio Education Association President Patricia Frost-Brooks, reacting to today’s Race to the Top funding announcement:

 “As president of the Ohio Education Association, I want to congratulate everyone who worked on Ohio’s application for Race to the Top funding.  The $400 million Ohio received will truly help all of us move our public education system from fifth to first in the nation.

I’m grateful to Governor Ted Strickland and Superintendent Deborah Delisle for their tireless efforts in pursuit of this grant. Also, I want to thank OEA members in local associations throughout Ohio who worked on Race to the Top. Many of them have already begun planning their next steps in this collaborative approach with school administrators.

Ohio has a great strategy for public schools – the Ohio Education Opportunity Act, also known as House Bill 1. Race to the Top dollars now give all of us the chance to implement that vision more quickly than we ever could without this funding. We have not only replaced the state’s unconstitutional system of school funding, we have also pointed the way to public school innovation and transformation.

OEA members believe every child deserves a great public school with caring, effective teachers and education support professionals. Our staff will offer technical assistance and consulting advice to local associations as they strive within their school communities to use Race to the Top dollars wisely. Together, we can shape the future, working toward world-class teaching and learning conditions for all children, regardless of where they reside.”

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

                                                                                -30-

For immediate assistance, contact: Michele Prater, OEA Media Relations Consultant | Phone: 614-227-3071 | Fax: 614-224-5659 | E-mail: praterm@ohea.org                                                                        

WASHINGTON—The U.S. House of Representatives approved legislation Tuesday containing emergency funds to help states cope with the Great Recession and stave off massive layoffs of educators. The House joined the Senate in passing H.R. 1586, the Education Jobs and Medicaid Assistance Act, legislation that will keep educators working and help states with Medicaid funding. It provides $10 billion for teachers' jobs and $16 billion for a Medicaid funding assistance program known as FMAP.

The legislation would provide $361.2 million in federal funding for Ohio and help save 5000 jobs.

A Congressional Budget Office analysis found that the legislation, which is fully paid for, will reduce the deficit by $1.4 billion over 10 years. The bill, which the Department of Education estimates will save some 161,000 educators’ jobs, now goes to President Obama for his signature. 

The following can be attributed to Patricia Frost-Brooks, president of the Ohio Education Association:

“This victory is the direct result of educators across Ohio speaking up for education and students. Not only will the legislation keep Ohio educators working, but it also will ensure that students returning to school in the fall will have the educators they need to continue learning.”

“We appreciate the support of the House leadership and Ohio’s Democratic congressional delegation for putting students ahead of politics,” said Frost-Brooks. “Fiscal relief to struggling school districts and students without exception should remain Ohio’s top priority during tough economic times.”

NEA delegates wrap up week of organizing on education policy

 
NEW ORLEANS—In the face of unprecedented budget cuts in public education and unrelenting criticism of public education, Dennis Van Roekel, president of the National Education Association, called on the 9,000 delegates to the Representative Assembly to become activists and advocates—both professionally and politically.
 
In his keynote address, Van Roekel urged educators to take the lead in creating sound education policies and take charge of the teaching profession.  He announced that NEA will create a new commission on effective teaching that will bring together accomplished teachers, Association leaders, researchers, and policymakers from across the country to offer recommendations on how teachers can take greater authority over their profession, the quality of teaching, and the quality of public education.  According to Van Roekel, accountants, nurses, doctors and lawyers all have a say in the professional standards, processes and procedures that govern their practice, and he says that educators should have that same influence over their own profession.
 
On the political front, Van Roekel criticized the Department of Education’s focus on grant competitions that reward just a handful of states or districts. He specifically mentioned Race to the Top and School Improvement Grants. “While we applaud the administration for its commitment to fund education, our members are frustrated by the disconnect between what they need each day to support their students and schools and the federal policies that hold up struggling students as products to be tested,” Van Roekel said.
 
Delegates stepped up and took action this week to influence their members of Congress. At the Representative Assembly’s Legislative Action Center, delegates sent 13,000 email messages to federal lawmakers on education-related topics. More than 840 educators videotaped messages to their senators and representatives in Washington, D.C. Thousands also wrote down on postcards the specific provisions they want to see when the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), currently known as No Child Left Behind, comes up for reauthorization this fall. Those messages will be delivered to Education Secretary Arne Duncan before the debate heats up in Congress.
 
Throughout the week, delegates learned more about NEA’s Priority Schools Campaign where NEA affiliates and educators are already making a difference. At Putnam City West High School  in Oklahoma City, Okla., for example, graduation rates for Hispanic students are up by nearly 70 percent because of a combination of targeted academic programs, parental involvement and professional development. In Evansville, Ind., administrators and union officials launched an equity schools project to transform schools through professional development for teachers and extended learning time for students. In Denver, Colo., teachers, the union and parents have teamed up to build the Math and Science Leadership Academy, where teachers emphasize collaboration that focuses on student learning.
 
Other highlights of the 2010 Representative Assembly:

• Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley received the America’s Greatest Education Governor Award for the investment his state has made in its public schools and his efforts to make college more affordable, among many other achievements.
• Historian and education scholar Diane Ravitch received the NEA Friend of Education Award. With her recent book, The Death and Life of the Great American School System: How Testing and Choice Are Undermining Education, she is raising concerns over testing mania, school choice, and charters—concepts she once embraced but clearly has left behind.
• Sarah Brown Wessling, the 2010 Teacher of the Year, spoke to delegates about her belief that teachers must be the lead learners in their own classrooms—that means teachers are listening, interacting, and working side by side with their students.
• ESP of the Year Helen Cottongim, a school bus driver from Kentucky, urged delegates to stand strong in the face of new assaults on children and schools. “Today, we are faced with the old enemies that keep coming back to hurt us: not enough money to fund our school systems, poor health care, vanishing retirement benefits.”
• Two members of NEA’s Executive Committee—Paula Monroe and Christy Levings—were re-elected to a second three-year term that begins September 1.
• Continuing a long-standing tradition, this year’s Representative Assembly hosted 14 international guests from 12 countries, all representing educators’ unions around the world.
• NEA held its annual Human and Civil Rights Awards Dinner to honor community activists for their work in advancing the cause of equal opportunity, improving relationships between diverse groups and expanding educational opportunities for minority students and educators.
• NEA’s Read Across America held a fun-filled literacy event at the Louisiana Children’s Museum and partnered with New Orleans public libraries throughout the weeklong convention.
• More than 500 college students and NEA members spent a day renovating Belle Chasse High School, a school ravaged by Hurricane Katrina, in NEA’s annual Outreach to Teach project.

 
For complete RA coverage: www.nea.org/ra
To visit the NEA Press Center: www.nea.org/presscenter
For more on NEA’s ESEA priorities: www.nea.org/home/13193.htm
For more on NEA’s Priority School’s Campaign: http://neapriorityschools.org/
 

 
The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional employee organization, representing 3.2 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators and students preparing to become teachers.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Staci Maiers, NEA Public Relations
(202) 822-7150, smaiers@nea.org
June 7, 2010
 

Constitutional question of federal government’s role in education remains unanswered

 
WASHINGTON—The U.S. Supreme Court today denied the National Education Association’s petition to review the lower court decision in School District of Pontiac, Mich. v. Duncan, 09-852. The lawsuit, originally filed on April 20, 2005, asked the courts to recognize that the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB) requires the federal government to pay for the billions of dollars in mandates imposed by the law. The suit was based on a specific NCLB provision, (Sec. 9527(a)), which states: “Nothing in this Act shall be construed to authorize an officer or employee of the Federal government to... mandate a State or any subdivision thereof to spend any funds or incur any costs not paid for under this Act.”
 
The School District of Pontiac, Mich. v. Duncan plaintiffs, including several school districts, alleged that because the federal government has never provided sufficient funding to cover the costs of NCLB compliance, states and school districts have had to divert funds away from proven educational programs to pay for the NCLB testing, paperwork and other requirements.
 
The following statement can be attributed to NEA President Dennis Van Roekel:
 

“We are disappointed that the U.S. Supreme Court has denied the National Education Association’s petition for certiorari in School District of Pontiac, Mich. v. Duncan. At stake is a fundamental constitutional question regarding the power of Congress to shift costs for compliance with federal education mandates to states and local districts without making it clear from the outset that the federal government will not cover the costs of compliance. 
 
“We believe that forcing school districts to divert precious funds from proven education reforms and critical education needs in order to comply with the NCLB mandates violates Sec. 9527(a). The law plainly states that the federal government cannot require states or school districts to pay for the costs of NCLB compliance. At a time when class sizes are skyrocketing, curriculum offerings are being slashed, and hundreds of thousands of educators are losing their jobs, we believe the federal government should make good on the promise of Sec. 9527(a) and excuse states and school districts from complying with the unfunded NCLB mandates.
 
“NEA will continue to advocate for sustainable, focused and evidence-based policies that support great public schools for all students. NEA and its 3.2 million members will continue working with Congress and the Obama administration as the Elementary and Secondary Education Act is reauthorized to ensure that the federal law meets the needs of students, educators and public schools. We will work with the Obama administration and Congress to correct not only the funding shortfalls that have plagued our public schools but also the fundamental defects in the NCLB law.”

 
More information on NEA’s position on reauthorization of ESEA can be found online at www.nea.org/esea.  Follow us on twitter at www.twitter.com/NEAMedia.
 
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For immediate assistance, contact: Michele Prater, OEA Media Relations Consultant | Phone: 614-227-3071 | Fax: 614-224-5659 | E-mail: praterm@ohea.org                                                                       

Columbus - The Ohio Education Association (OEA) Fund for Children and Public Education (OEA-FCPE) recently announced its second round of recommendations for the November 2010 statewide elections. The OEA–FCPE has recommended the following:

Lee Fisher for U.S. Senate
Richard Cordray for Attorney General
Eric Brown for Ohio Supreme Court Chief Justice
Mary Jane Trapp for Ohio Supreme Court Justice

“These candidates have demonstrated their commitment to public education and a vision to ensure a better future for Ohio’s children,” said OEA President Patricia Frost-Brooks. “Ohio citizens will be well-served by these recommended candidates based upon their record of support for public education from K-12 through higher education.”

Earlier this year, the OEA-FCPE also recommended the following candidates:

Ted Strickland for Governor
Maryellen O’Shaughnessy for Secretary of State
Kevin Boyce for State Treasurer
David Pepper for State Auditor

The OEA-FCPE carefully screens candidates based on their support of public education and OEA priority issues. A member-led statewide FCPE council first interviews candidates, and a statewide OEA-FCPE convention of OEA members votes on candidate recommendations.

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

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For immediate assistance, contact: Michele Prater, OEA Media Relations Consultant | Phone: 614-227-3071 | Fax: 614-224-5659 | E-mail: praterm@ohea.org

Columbus - Members of the Ohio Education Association, the state’s largest education employee union, have re-elected Patricia Frost-Brooks to a second three-year term as President, and William Leibensperger to a second three-year term as Vice President.

OEA represents 130,000 teachers, education support professionals and higher education faculty and is the fifth largest state affiliate of the 3.3 million-member National Education Association.

Frost-Brooks ran unopposed and was elected by acclamation of the OEA’s Representative Assembly (RA), the governing body of the organization. The RA is comprised of more than 1,100 member delegates from OEA local affiliates throughout Ohio.

Frost-Brooks is currently serving a three-year term as OEA President and will begin her new term September 1, 2010. She has served as OEA President for the past three years. An active OEA member throughout her entire career, Frost-Brooks was a middle school teacher for the East Cleveland City Schools before being elected OEA’s vice president in 2001.

Frost-Brooks has served in a wide variety of association positions and was president of the North Eastern OEA and president of the East Cleveland Education Association. She serves on the boards of the Ohio Appalachian Educators Institute, the New Teacher Project, the Ohio Advisory Leadership Council, the Coalition for Public Education, the AFL/CIO Partnership, the OEA/Ohio Department of Education Partnership, and the Ohio Democratic Party Executive Committee. She also serves on Education Commission of the States and the NEA reauthorization committee. Frost-Brooks earned a Bachelor’s degree from Capital University and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Ashland University.

South-Western City Schools teacher William Leibensperger has been re-elected a second time as OEA Vice President, serving a three-year term. Leibensperger also ran unopposed and was elected by acclamation. Prior to his election as vice-president Leibensperger served as the OEA secretary-treasurer from 2000-2006.

In November 2009, Governor Ted Strickland appointed Leibensperger as a teacher representative on the Ohio School Funding Advisory Council, the advisory body that will make recommendations on all areas of school funding for Ohio. He also serves as the co-chair of the Healthcare and Pension Advocates for STRS, a coalition that has worked collaboratively to ensure retiree health care for members of the system.

His other professional activities include being a member of the Annenberg Institute at Brown University, a member of the National School Reform Faculty of the Annenberg, a reader for the Advanced Placement program for The College Board and a member of the Board of Examiners for the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. Leibensperger earned his Bachelor of Science degree at Miami University (Ohio) and his Master’s degree from the Ohio State University.

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For immediate assistance, contact: Michele Prater, OEA Media Relations Consultant | Phone: 614-227-3071 | Fax: 614-224-5659 | E-mail: praterm@ohea.org

Columbus - The Ohio Education Association recognizes Governor Ted Strickland as the recipient of OEA’s 2010 Friend of Education Award. The Friend of Education Award honors a person and/or organization whose leadership, acts, and support have contributed to the improvement of public education on a statewide and/or national level.

“When the economic crisis crippled Ohio, Ohio Governor Ted Strickland faced down a budget crisis and partisan opposition to fund and transform Ohio schools – including universal all-day Kindergarten and smaller K-3 class sizes,” said OEA President Patricia Frost-Brooks.  Politicians neglected Ohio’s unconstitutional school funding system for 14 years, but Strickland re-created the funding system with an unprecedented commitment to fairness, innovation and creativity. He led a multi-state coalition that secured an unprecedented $100 billion in emergency federal education aid nationwide, preserving 11,000 educator jobs here in Ohio, not to mention countless programs and choices for students. He has proven himself an incomparable friend for schools in Ohio – and the nation.”

Governor Strickland received the award in person on Friday, May 7, 2010, during the Spring Representative Assembly at Vets Memorial in Columbus.  The Representative Assembly is OEA’s governing body, with more than 1,300 delegates from local associations across Ohio.

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Do the right thing for students; pass the Keep Our Educators Working Act

WASHINGTON— NEA President Dennis Van Roekel joined U.S. Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), U.S. Rep. George Miller (D-Calif.), AFT President Randi Weingarten and concerned teachers and parents today on Capitol Hill to urge Congress to make education jobs funding a priority.
 
“As educators continue to face layoffs across the country, we must remember what this means for our students and their futures,” said National Education Association President Dennis Van Roekel. “Massive class sizes, less attention to individual student needs, fewer services—all mean our children won’t receive the education they need. How can we give our children a world class education when teachers and other education personnel are in unemployment lines instead of in classrooms and schools?”
 
In keeping with past recovery efforts under the Administration’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), Harkin, chair of the Senate Education Committee, recently introduced the Keep Our Educators Working Act , which would provide $23 billion to extend the already successful State Fiscal Stabilization Fund. According to Harkin, the bill, cosponsored by 25 Senators, would offer a one-year influx of money to fund state and local education jobs.  In addition, Miller, who is chair of the House Committee on Education and Labor, has included funding for education jobs in his Local Jobs for America Act.

“This country is about to face a massive wave of layoffs in our schools and institutions of higher learning that could weaken our economic recovery and cause serious damage to our education system,” Harkin said. “This bill is an investment in our kids, in our economy and in our future.”
 
“Chairmen Harkin and Miller have introduced bills that will save or fund hundreds of thousands of education jobs, and ensure that millions of America’s students will not be penalized or shortchanged because of the nation’s economic woes,” said Van Roekel. “When educators lose their jobs, our children lose too.”
 
All across the country, educators are speaking out for education and kids. Join the discussion on Facebook  at http://www.facebook.com/speakupforkids.
 
For more resources on education funding, please go to http://www.nea.org/funding. For more information on saving educators’ jobs, visit http://www.educationvotes.nea.org/ Follow us on twitter at www.twitter.com/NEAMedia

For immediate assistance, contact: Michele Prater, OEA Media Relations Consultant | Phone: 614-227-3071 | Fax: 614-224-5659 | E-mail: praterm@ohea.org

Ohio Education Association tele-town hall meeting attracts 2,000 educators
 
Columbus—U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH), fielded questions from OEA members about the escalating amount of teacher layoffs throughout Ohio via a telephone town hall meeting. The call attracted more than 2,000 participants.
 
Participants on the call made it clear: Education reform does not start by distributing layoff notices to hundreds of teachers across the state. The reference relates to the “Keep Our Educators Working Act,” which would provide $23 billion to extend the State Fiscal Stabilization aid from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).
 
State and local budget cuts have forced many school districts to distribute layoff notices to hundreds of educators, as well as cut programs to fill budget shortfalls. Projections indicate nearly 1,000 educators will be “pink slipped” in Ohio.
 
A major concern for many of the callers was centered on the impact these layoffs will have on students—ballooning class sizes, additional program cuts, fewer counselors, nurses, reading specialists and other critically needed educators who ensure that each student gets the individualized attention needed.
 
 “We are facing an immediate crisis with state and local budgets that will take teachers out of the classroom,”   said Brown. “Our students –especially those in our most economically distressed communities – should not pay the price. We need to take action to protect education from these devastating budget cuts.”
 
Callers pressed Brown to help keep children learning and keep educators in schools by urging his colleagues in the Senate to pass the already House-approved “Keep Our Educators Working Act.” 
 
This spring, as the state’s proposed budget dipped well below school needs, districts responded by sending out layoff notices. School officials say the shortfalls are the result of federal economic recovery funds drying up—with the state unable to fill in the funding gaps. 
 
The federal stimulus bill was critically important to Ohio, as nearly 8,000 education jobs — teachers, librarians, nurses and support workers—were saved.
 
Patricia Frost-Brooks, president of the Ohio Education Association said, “It’s a mistake to cut school funding—and issuing pink slips to teachers is not a solution to solving the state’s deficit problem. We are in the business of building America and growing our knowledge capital. But it will be hard to do with a classroom of 28 students and fewer programs to offer.”
 
The call also gave Brown the opportunity to talk about other issues critical to public education, such as charter schools, community and parental involvement and the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, better known for No Child Left Behind.
 
Brown said, “With the ESEA reauthorization we have to move beyond identifying the gaps and start creating smart strategic systems for improvement across the board.” Brown emphasized that in addition to parental involvement there must be a school-community partnership in place.
 
To listen to a recording of the call, or for more information, please contact NEA Public Relations at (202) 822-7823 or newsdeadline@nea.org.
 
 

WASHINGTON— As the school year winds down, kids across the country are preparing for summer break, camp and family vacations.  Yet, as the end of the school year approaches, so does the likelihood that there will be fewer educators there to welcome the students back in the fall. 

With three months left in "pink slip" season, the National Education Association is projecting at least 125,000 educator layoffs—with that number likely to increase. State and local budgets are at critical levels, more cuts are looming, and the prospect of larger class sizes, less individual attention and more crowded school buses has parents concerned.

 NEA is urging immediate passage of the Keep Our Educators Working Act, introduced today by Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), chair of the Senate Education Committee.

“When educators lose their jobs, our children lose too,” said NEA President Dennis Van Roekel.  “The students who were in our schools yesterday will be there again tomorrow. And they will still need individual attention and resources to help them achieve.  They will still need counselors, nurses, reading specialists and others to help them succeed. These cuts shortchange our kids, and frankly, they deserve more than that.”

Millions of public school children will be affected by the projected layoffs. School budgets across the country have already been cut to the bone, with some districts moving to four-day school weeks, cutting programs or even closing schools. These layoffs and cuts are coming at the same time that schools are facing demands for better academic outcomes.

Some districts are choosing to cut programs rather than lay off staff; some districts have no choice but to cut both programs and staff.  Either way, those actions are a losing proposition for millions of public school students. 

 “The Keep Our Educators Working Act would provide $23 billion to extend already successful State Fiscal Stabilization aid from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). This would save or fund hundreds of thousands of education jobs, and it would be a tremendous help to states in dire financial circumstances,” said Van Roekel. “But more importantly, it ensures that millions of America’s students will not be bearing the brunt of the nation's economic woes.

 “We thank Senator Harkin for introducing the Keep Our Educators Working Act and urge the Senate to act quickly on its passage.  We also hope that Secretary of Education Arne Duncan will urge the Senate to quickly pass this important aid.”

At a Senate hearing Wednesday, Iowa State Education Association President Chris Bern testified that the ARRA was critically important to Iowa, funding 6,715 education jobs— teachers, librarians, nurses, and support workers— across the state. Nearly 5,000 of those jobs were funded through the State Fiscal Stabilization Fund.

“The Senate needs to act quickly on an education jobs package,” testified Bern.  “This will go a very long way to help avert the crisis that is right in front of us.”

Prospects are bleak for teachers—those who are getting layoff notices as well as those who are being asked to do much more with much less.  Read about what educators are saying about crowded classrooms and dwindling resources. Their stories are being shared through NEA’s activism Web site EducationVotes.

For immediate assistance, contact: Michele Prater, OEA Media Relations Consultant | Phone: 614-227-3071 | Fax: 614-224-5659 | E-mail: praterm@ohea.org

COLUMBUS — In an important decision for teachers and education professionals in Ohio, Judge Dan Hogan of the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas  has issued an order in favor of the Ohio Education Association stating that the Ohio Department of Education and its agents and employees shall not, pursuant to any public records request, release or publish the residential (home) addresses, home telephone numbers, and personal email addresses of individuals licensed by the Ohio Department of Education (ODE).  In a detailed six-page opinion, Judge Hogan found that the disclosure of such information would cause irreparable harm since the information could never be returned to its current level of privacy once released.

“We are very pleased with the court’s decision. Our commitment to the privacy and safety of Ohio education employees compelled OEA to challenge access to this personal information,” said OEA president Patricia Frost-Brooks. “OEA has always believed the personal information of our members is not a public record under Ohio law.”

The Ohio School Boards Association and the Ohio Association of School Business Officials had filed amicus briefs in support of OEA’s position.

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

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For immediate assistance, contact: Michele Prater, OEA Media Relations Consultant | Phone: 614-227-3071 | Fax: 614-224-5659 | E-mail: praterm@ohea.org

COLUMBUS — Oral arguments were held today in Franklin County Court of Common Pleas before Judge Dan Hogan regarding OEA’s lawsuit to prevent the release of residential (home) addresses, home telephone numbers and personal email addresses of individuals licensed by the Ohio Department of Education.  Lawyers for both sides had filed briefs with the Court on the issue, and the Ohio School Boards Association and the Ohio Association of School Business Officials filed an amicus brief in support of OEA’s position.

On November 13, 2009, a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) was granted which prevented the release of such information. This prohibition remains in effect until the Court issues a decision on the matter. It is not known when the Court will rule.   

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

Today, Ohio Education Association President Patricia Frost-Brooks issued the following statement in response to Governor Ted Strickland’s State of the State address:

“Governor Strickland continues his strong leadership and his commitment to public education while balancing the budget in tough economic times. A strong public education system lays the foundation for a strong economy and more job opportunities for Ohioans.
 
The Governor has set in motion bold ideas on preparing students for the 21st century, and a comprehensive and responsible approach to funding public education. Despite our economic challenges, Governor Strickland has embraced the connection between revitalizing Ohio’s communities and energizing our public schools. He is working in the best interests of our students by equipping them with the skills necessary for the jobs of the future and freezing college tuitions to expand higher education opportunities.”

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

                                                             -30-

For Immediate Release: January 26, 2010
For More Information Contact:  Michele Prater
614-227-3071 or 614-378-0469

OEA Applauds Strickland’s Leadership for Ohio Public Education

Today, Ohio Education Association President Patricia Frost-Brooks issued the following statement in response to Governor Ted Strickland’s State of the State address:

“Governor Strickland continues his strong leadership and his commitment to public education while balancing the budget in tough economic times. A strong public education system lays the foundation for a strong economy and more job opportunities for Ohioans.

The Governor has set in motion bold ideas on preparing students for the 21st century, and a comprehensive and responsible approach to funding public education. Despite our economic challenges, Governor Strickland has embraced the connection between revitalizing Ohio’s communities and energizing our public schools. He is working in the best interests of our students by equipping them with the skills necessary for the jobs of the future and freezing college tuitions to expand higher education opportunities.”

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

For Immediate Release: December 21, 2009

For More Information Contact: Michele Prater
614-227-3071 or 614-378-0469
 
COLUMBUS — The Ohio Education Association issued the following statement regarding the hearing on whether a temporary restraining order should be extended into a permanent injunction to prevent the release of the personal information of licensed Ohio education employees as kept by the Ohio Department of Education.  
 
By agreement of the parties, the temporary restraining order (TRO) originally granted on November 13, 2009, has been extended until Franklin County Common Pleas Judge Dan Hogan rules on OEA’s request for an injunction preventing the release of personal data of Ohio public school employees maintained by the Ohio Department of Education. 

The TRO prevents the release of residential (home) addresses, home telephone numbers and personal email addresses of individuals licensed by the Ohio Department of Education.  Lawyers for both sides are to file briefs with the court on the issue. Oral argument is scheduled for March 19,  2010.
 
“Our commitment to Ohio education employees is the compelling reason for our action,” said OEA president Patricia Frost-Brooks. “The protection of members’ personal information is of utmost importance to OEA.  It is our association’s position that such information is not a public record under Ohio law”.
 
The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

UPDATE: Late this afternoon, Franklin County’s Common Pleas Court Judge Beatty granted OEA’s request for a temporary restraining order.  The TRO prevents the release of residential (home) addresses, home telephone numbers and personal email addresses of individuals licensed by the Ohio Department of Education.  Judge Hogan has been assigned to hear the case.

 
COLUMBUS — Today, the Ohio Education Association (OEA) filed a temporary restraining order in Franklin County Court of Common Pleas to prevent the release of the personal information of licensed Ohio education employees as kept by the Ohio Department of Education.
 
In its written public records request to the Ohio Department of Education, the Ohio Republican Party seeks the following:
 
“All contact information for teachers, principals and school support staff, whose records are retained in the licensure database of the Ohio Department of Education. This information should include full name, home mailing address, position or title, email address, home phone number, school at which they work and county and school district in which the school is located for both public and private educational institutions.”
 
If granted, the temporary restraining order will delay the release of this information until a court can rule on whether or not the release of such personal information is subject to disclosure under Ohio public records law.
 
“Our commitment to Ohio education employees is the compelling reason for our action today,” said OEA president Patricia Frost-Brooks. “The protection of members’ personal information is of utmost importance to OEA.  It is our association’s position that such information is not a public record under Ohio law.”
 
The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.
        

For Immediate Release
October 22, 2009
For More Information Contact: Michele Prater
614-227-3071 or 614-378-0469

The Ohio Education Association (OEA) applauds Ohio’s membership in the Partnership for 21st Century Skills (P21), the leading national advocacy organization focused on integrating 21st century skills, such as critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills, into core subjects.

For teachers, incorporating 21st century skills into curriculum supports best pedagogical practices and allows teachers to redesign where and how students will be learning. It also offers welcome opportunities for meaningful professional learning and innovative leadership.  “To compete for the jobs of the future, Ohio’s students must develop skills like critical thinking, problem solving, global awareness and understanding today’s communication and media environment,” said OEA President Patricia Frost-Brooks.

In a statement, Governor Ted Strickland noted that Ohio is committed to providing every student with the skills and knowledge that will help them succeed after graduation in a fast-moving world where jobs are constantly advancing. “It’s no secret that companies look for new employees who are innovative, think critically, and know how to solve complex problems,” Strickland said. “We’re preparing our students for the cutting-edge jobs of the modern economy.”

OEA agrees and will support this effort as educators work to update Ohio curriculum and teaching strategies through House Bill 1 reform initiatives, Frost-Brooks said.

Along with Governor Strickland and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Deborah Delisle, the initiative is supported by ranking members of Ohio’s House and Senate Education Committees, the state Board of Education of Ohio, the Ohio Board of Regents, the Ohio Education Association, the Ohio Federation of Teachers, the Buckeye Association of School Administrators, the Ohio Associations of Elementary and Secondary School Administrators, the Ohio STEM Learning Network, netTrekker, the KnowledgeWorks Foundation and others.

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

 

Columbus, OH—Representatives from the Ohio Board of Regents, state lawmakers, college administrators and representatives from the three higher education faculty organizations held a summit Oct. 2 to discuss the connections between student success in Ohio’s colleges and universities, academic staffing needs and Gov. Ted Strickland’s 10-year plan for higher education in Ohio.

Faculty organizations of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, Ohio Education Association, the Ohio Conference of the American Association of University Professors support Gov. Ted Strickland’s comprehensive higher education plan and want to be active participants along with the Ohio Board of Regents in helping students, universities and the state thrive and grow. To that end, Summit participants agreed to create a working group to review current policies and practices, as well as seek ways to address the current academic staffing crisis—that is, the impact of steadily deteriorating faculty working conditions on the learning experience of students.

The working group seeks to improve the quality of higher education for Ohio's college students by addressing staffing issues. For example, Ohio Board of Regents authorization guidelines mandate that at least 60 percent of college and university courses be taught by full-time faculty. Yet, that standard is not enforced.

Full-time faculty members often bring more experience to the teaching role which can improve student achievement. In addition, Full-time faculty are provided the resources and opportunity (office space and time to meet) to provide additional assistance to students where part-time faculty and adjuncts are not. However, some colleges and universities prefer to over-use part-time faculty and adjuncts because they can pay them less and provide fewer employment benefits. This trend does not benefit Ohio's college students.

Solving the staffing crisis in higher education is critical to accomplishing Gov. Strickland’s goals of expanding access to an affordable college education, helping students stay in college and attain a degree.  To help achieve these goals, the working group will look for strategies to ensure that both full- and part-time faculty members at Ohio’s colleges and universities receive the support they need to ensure the highest possible quality of education for all of Ohio's students.

The groups look forward to working together on this important project, which is essential to maintaining Ohio’s world-class quality colleges and universities and keeping higher education within reach of all who have the desire and academic skills to attend.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                        
October 6, 2009

 

For immediate assistance, contact: Michele Prater, OEA Media Relations Consultant | Phone: 614-227-3071 | Fax: 614-224-5659 | E-mail: praterm@ohea.org

Faculty Groups Host Summit on Staffing Issues, Student Success

Columbus, OH—Representatives from the Ohio Board of Regents, state lawmakers, college administrators and representatives from the three higher education faculty organizations held a summit Oct. 2 to discuss the connections between student success in Ohio’s colleges and universities, academic staffing needs and Gov. Ted Strickland’s 10-year plan for higher education in Ohio.
 
Faculty organizations of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, Ohio Education Association, the Ohio Conference of the American Association of University Professors support Gov. Ted Strickland’s comprehensive higher education plan and want to be active participants along with the Ohio Board of Regents in helping students, universities and the state thrive and grow. To that end, Summit participants agreed to create a working group to review current policies and practices, as well as seek ways to address the current academic staffing crisis—that is, the impact of steadily deteriorating faculty working conditions on the learning experience of students.

The working group seeks to improve the quality of higher education for Ohio's college students by addressing staffing issues. For example, Ohio Board of Regents authorization guidelines mandate that at least 60 percent of college and university courses be taught by full-time faculty. Yet, that standard is not enforced.

Full-time faculty members often bring more experience to the teaching role which can improve student achievement. In addition, Full-time faculty are provided the resources and opportunity (office space and time to meet) to provide additional assistance to students where part-time faculty and adjuncts are not. However, some colleges and universities prefer to over-use part-time faculty and adjuncts because they can pay them less and provide fewer employment benefits. This trend does not benefit Ohio's college students.

Solving the staffing crisis in higher education is critical to accomplishing Gov. Strickland’s goals of expanding access to an affordable college education, helping students stay in college and attain a degree.  To help achieve these goals, the working group will look for strategies to ensure that both full- and part-time faculty members at Ohio’s colleges and universities receive the support they need to ensure the highest possible quality of education for all of Ohio's students.

The groups look forward to working together on this important project, which is essential to maintaining Ohio’s world-class quality colleges and universities and keeping higher education within reach of all who have the desire and academic skills to attend.

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For Immediate Release 
For More Information Contact:
Michele Prater
614-227-3071 or 614-378-0469
 
September 30, 2009

Statement by Ohio Education Association regarding Strickland scenarios for balancing the state budget

(Columbus) -  Ohio Education Association President Patricia Frost-Brooks issued the following statement regarding Governor Strickland’s budget news conference:
 
“The Ohio Education Association commends Governor Ted Strickland for his proposal to resolve Ohio’s budget crisis.  Thoughtful leaders have to make difficult decisions. OEA calls upon legislative leaders to support Governor Strickland’s recommendation to postpone the final phase of the income tax reduction. 
 
“This option will preserve critical state and federal support of K-12 education reforms designed to move Ohio’s economy into the 21st century.  Without this option, the loss of state and federal dollars will force Ohio schools to slash vital academic programs and services such as transportation, staffing, and student activities.  Ohio cannot turn the corner economically without a strong commitment to public education as the bridge to the careers and industries of the future.”
 
The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.
 

For Immediate Release
For More Information Contact:
Michele Prater
614-227-3071 or 614-378-0469

September 29, 2009

(Columbus) -  Ohio Education Association President Patricia Frost-Brooks issued the following statement on the state budget crisis:

“The Ohio Department of Education has given us a sobering damage report on the Ohio Supreme Court’s decision on video lottery terminals. Not only do we risk losing $851 million in state aid to schools, but Ohio could lose billions more by becoming ineligible for federal stimulus dollars. Ohio schools could face immediate cutbacks that actually get worse next school year. OEA called upon legislative leaders to meet quickly in order to resolve this situation in a way that protects public education, as Governor Strickland has pledged to do. Local school districts and Ohio colleges and universities cannot live with the uncertainty of up to $2.3 billion in cuts in state funding.  Nor can the state of Ohio turn the corner economically without a strong commitment to public education as a bridge to the careers and industries of the future.”

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.
 

Statement by the Ohio Department of Education regarding the recent Ohio Supreme Court decision on video lottery terminals and its  potential affect on school funding:

Good afternoon.
 
As I mentioned to you in Monday’s weekly update, the state budget is of concern due to the Ohio Supreme Court ruling from Sept. 21, 2009 that stated that the installation of Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs) at Ohio’s horse-race tracks is subject to referendum. The referendum cannot appear on the ballot until November 2010.
 
House Bill 1, the state budget bill, included VLTs as an extension of the Ohio Lottery; as such, the proceeds from VLTs would only be able to be used for education. The biennial budget for K-12 education in H.B. 1 included $851 million in revenues from VLTs.
 
Since the ruling, we have received many questions about the impact the loss of those funds might potentially have on the budget for education in Ohio.
 
Yesterday, Governor Ted Strickland’s Office asked ODE to provide information about how potential additional reductions would affect K-12 funding. The Governor’s Office is releasing the information ODE provided to the media shortly, and I want to be certain you have access to it, should you receive any inquiries. I do want to stress that, very similar to prior scenario building during the budget development process, these figures and examples are being used to DEMONSTRATE how devastating any additional reductions would be to education. NO decisions have been made about altering the education budget.
 
ODE has developed information for two scenarios. One scenario is based on ODE receiving a waiver from meeting maintenance of effort (MOE) and use of funds criteria from the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE). This would allow ODE to shift State Fiscal Stabilization Funds (SFSF) from FY11 to FY10. Shifting funds would minimize the impact of the revenue loss in FY10, but would require the entire loss of revenue to be made up in FY11.
 
The other scenario assumes that USDOE does not grant a waiver to ODE. This would result in not only the loss of VLT revenue, but could also cause the loss of SFSF appropriated for both ODE and the Board of Regents as the state would not be able to meet its obligations for MOE and use of funds. The reductions would then have to be split over both years of the biennium.
 
Without a waiver from the USDOE
 
Losing both the VLT and SFSF funding results in a shortfall of $2.3 billion. Based on the simulations released earlier this month, a 10.31% reduction in districts’ FY 2010 payments and 15.74% in FY 2011 payments would be necessary. In the scenario, reductions have been applied at these percentages across the board. We have only provided estimates for traditional districts, but reductions at the same levels for community schools are assumed.
 
We do not know if the USDOE would grant a waiver of these particular requirements and allow us to remain eligible to receive SFSF funds.
 
Click here to visit Education Reform on the ODE Web and view the funding adjustment under this scenario.
 
With a waiver from the USDOE
 
If ODE were granted a waiver for meeting MOE and use of funds criteria by the USDOE, reductions would be shifted to affect FY11 only. Under this scenario, $285.2 million which has already been included in the FY11 K-12 education budget would have to be shifted to fill the shortfall in FY10. The shift in funds would be necessary because USDOE guidance for the use of SFSF funds requires any shortfalls in FY10 to be addressed before applying funds to shortfalls in FY11.

This avoids a deficit in FY10, but means that the full impact of the cuts would need to be absorbed in FY11 and shared by both K-12 education and the Board of Regents. Reductions to districts would be in the amount of $654.2 million, or an across-the-board reduction of 10.06% per district in FY11. This also results in a budget shortfall for the Board of Regents of $197.3million.
 
Click here to visit Education Reform on the ODE Web and view the funding adjustment under this scenario.
 
For the purposes of this exercise, Joint Vocational Schools are not included in either reduction scenario. Any further reduction to the JVS budget would put an additional $44 million in federal Perkins grant funds at risk.
 
Additionally, neither of these scenarios can fully account for the implications these reductions might have at the local level. For example, in order to preserve Title I or IDEA funds (both regular and stimulus) a district may need to divert resources to those programs.
 
We understand that the uncertainty of the last year has been difficult for you as planning budgets and making important decisions about your finances have been thrown into flux by issues with the state budget. The current situation definitely adds to the angst we all feel. Let me reiterate that NO decisions have been made about education funding. Please understand that we are doing everything we can at ODE to assist you through these tough financial times. I will keep you informed as soon as ODE receives any information.
 
Sincerely,
Deborah Delisle

 

(Columbus) -  Ohio Education Association President Patricia Frost-Brooks issued the following statement commending President Barack Obama’s message to the nation’s students:

 I want to thank President Barack Obama for supporting the hopes and dreams we have for our students as their parents and teachers. He stressed the need for critical thinking and problem-solving skills that students will need to succeed in the world of the 21st Century. It was an inspiring message of hope, responsibility, opportunity and persistence. When the President acknowledges learning from failures and mistakes and the constant need to get help from other people, that’s a terrific example to help students learn from adversity. OEA can embrace this message, and school employees throughout Ohio now surely know the President values our work in public education and the learners we serve. 

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

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Education Department announces “Race to the Top” guidelines

NEA President Dennis Van Roekel responds

COLUMBUS, OHIO – The Ohio Education Association (OEA), working in collaboration with a wide-ranging coalition of business and education groups, has launched a new web site, www.FutureofOhio.org, as a platform for information and action on the Ohio state budget and its implications for public education and the Ohio economy.

The theme of the site is “Stronger Schools, Better Jobs,” and its message calls for action to influence the House-Senate Conference Committee now about to meet to make critical decisions on public education and Ohio’s job strategies:

• Ohio is at a critical crossroads. Governor Ted Strickland and the Ohio House of Representatives have built a plan for a stronger public education system and a stronger Ohio economy.
• But leaders of the Ohio Senate have developed a counter-measure that keeps the status quo and has no support for energizing the Ohio economy.
• Now, a House-Senate Conference Committee is forming to decide the direction of the state budget – and how it will affect the state’s economic future.

“We are working with our partners in government, labor, business, education and community groups, to draw special attention to the dramatic choices before the Ohio General Assembly,” said OEA President Patricia Frost-Brooks.

“We helped launch FutureofOhio.org as a sign of our support for the Governor’s proposals to transform public schools and colleges and help our students prepare more effectively for emerging jobs. We cannot afford the status quo approach of the Ohio Senate, which clings to the past on public education and the economy.”

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

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The Ohio Education Association (OEA), the state’s largest association of education employees, today presented Paint Valley Local Schools desktop computers to be used by students in the district.

The computers, formerly used by OEA employees at the OEA Headquarters Building in Columbus and in the association’s 25 field offices, were donated to the school district with the hope that students will benefit from their use.

“OEA is pleased to help Paint Valley Local Schools by making these computers available, and the association hopes that the students who use them are able to expand their computer literacy and gain more ‘hands on’ time as a result,” said Patricia Frost-Brooks, president of the 130,000-member OEA.

The computers, valued at more than $15,000, will allow the Paint Valley Local Schools to expand its computer program and curriculum. 

 “In an increasingly technology-driven world, it is important that all students have a thorough grounding and background in computers, the Internet, and access to the endless opportunities they can provide both academically and personally.  We hope that the donation of the computers will allow for that, as well as ease some of the financial burden placed on the school district by the constant need to update equipment,” Frost-Brooks said.

 The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

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The Ohio Education Association (OEA), the state’s largest association of education employees, today presented Dayton Public Schools 40 desktop computers to be used by students in the district.

The computers, formerly used by OEA employees at the OEA Headquarters Building in Columbus and in the association’s 25 field offices, were donated to the school district with the hope that students will benefit from their use.

“OEA is pleased to help Dayton Public Schools by making these computers available, and the association hopes that the students who use them are able to expand their computer literacy and gain more ‘hands on’ time as a result,” said Patricia Frost-Brooks, president of the 130,000-member OEA.

The computers, valued at more than $20,000, will allow the Dayton Public Schools to expand its computer program and curriculum. 

“In an increasingly technology-driven world, it is important that all students have a thorough grounding and background in computers, the Internet, and access to the endless opportunities they can provide both academically and personally.  We hope that the donation of the computers will allow for that, as well as ease some of the financial burden placed on the school district by the constant need to update equipment,” Frost-Brooks said.

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

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Ohio Education Association endorses House budget bill

For Immediate Release                                                                                 January 28, 2009
Contact: Michele Prater
614-227-3071; cell 614-378-0469

Strickland proposes historic transformation of Ohio public education

In a statement, Ohio Education Association President Patricia Frost-Brooks thanked Gov. Ted Strickland for the landmark initiatives in his State of the State address. Here is the text of her statement:

Today, Gov. Ted Strickland has proposed a truly historic transformation of public education in Ohio. Taken together, these initiatives represent a seismic shift for teaching and learning in Ohio. With inspirational and authentic leadership, the Governor has set in motion bold ideas on preparing students for the 21st century, and a comprehensive and responsible approach to funding public education. Despite our economic challenges, Gov. Strickland has embraced the connection between revitalizing Ohio’s communities and energizing our public schools.

The Governor’s plan for school funding has the potential to break the stalemate between Ohio legislators and the Ohio Supreme Court, which ruled four times that Ohio’s school funding laws are unconstitutional. His proposals mean the state will assume more of its rightful share of the cost of public education and mitigate the need for new local tax levies. This is a constructive and well thought out approach that deserves thorough discussion and favorable consideration. 

After a worthwhile effort to listen to the input of Ohio stakeholders, the Governor’s proposals include constructive approaches to improving educational opportunities for Ohio’s children, including:
• More enrichment, creativity and innovation in the classroom to nurture 21st century skills, including dedicated state funding for enrichment materials
• Targeted funding and staffing to address achievement gaps and dropout rates, as well as staffing for school nurses and community outreach
• Eliminating the Ohio Graduation Test and adding multiple measures of student achievement
• More opportunities for young learners through expanding pre-Kindergarten programs and funding universal all-day Kindergarten statewide
• Recognition for strong teaching skills, and expanded opportunities for teachers to provide mentoring for their colleagues and to shape their own professional development
• Expanding student learning opportunities by phasing in expanded school days and longer school years
• Financial and academic accountability measures not only for public schools, but also for charter schools, and no role for the for-profit charter schools that have proven to be a source of problems in Ohio.

We look forward to ongoing conversations with the Governor on his ideas, further meetings with legislators opportunities to obtain input from our members on how these proposals will affect our education system, including some details that may have unintended consequences.

Just as he has done throughout the past six months as Ohio faced painful budget cuts, the Governor is working in the best interests of our students. His relentless focus on education reform and fixing our school funding problems will go a long way toward overcoming Ohio’s economic challenges.

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

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In a statement, Ohio Education Association President Patricia Frost-Brooks thanked Gov. Ted Strickland for the landmark initiatives in his State of the State address. Here is the text of her statement:

Today, Gov. Ted Strickland has proposed a truly historic transformation of public education in Ohio. Taken together, these initiatives represent a seismic shift for teaching and learning in Ohio. With inspirational and authentic leadership, the Governor has set in motion bold ideas on preparing students for the 21st century, and a comprehensive and responsible approach to funding public education. Despite our economic challenges, Gov. Strickland has embraced the connection between revitalizing Ohio’s communities and energizing our public schools.

The Governor’s plan for school funding has the potential to break the stalemate between Ohio legislators and the Ohio Supreme Court, which ruled four times that Ohio’s school funding laws are unconstitutional. His proposals mean the state will assume more of its rightful share of the cost of public education and mitigate the need for new local tax levies. This is a constructive and well thought out approach that deserves thorough discussion and favorable consideration. 

After a worthwhile effort to listen to the input of Ohio stakeholders, the Governor’s proposals include constructive approaches to improving educational opportunities for Ohio’s children, including:

• ·        More enrichment, creativity and innovation in the classroom to nurture 21st century skills, including dedicated state funding for enrichment materials
• ·        Targeted funding and staffing to address achievement gaps and dropout rates, as well as staffing for school nurses and community outreach
• ·         Eliminating the Ohio Graduation Test and adding multiple measures of student achievement
• ·         More opportunities for young learners through expanding pre-Kindergarten programs and funding universal all-day Kindergarten statewide
• ·        Recognition for strong teaching skills, and expanded opportunities for teachers to provide mentoring for their colleagues and to shape their own professional development
• ·        Expanding student learning opportunities by phasing in expanded school days and longer school years
• ·        Financial and academic accountability measures not only for public schools, but also for charter schools, and no role for the for-profit charter schools that have proven to be a source of problems in Ohio.

We look forward to ongoing conversations with the Governor on his ideas, further meetings with legislators opportunities to obtain input from our members on how these proposals will affect our education system, including some details that may have unintended consequences.

Just as he has done throughout the past six months as Ohio faced painful budget cuts, the Governor is working in the best interests of our students. His relentless focus on education reform and fixing our school funding problems will go a long way toward overcoming Ohio’s economic challenges.

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

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Ohio Education Association President Patricia Frost-Brooks issued the following statement today commending Governor Strickland’s appointment of new State Board of Education members Dennis Reardon, Tracey Smith, Martha Harris and Danny Greene:

 “Governor Strickland has made thoughtful choices in his appointment of new Ohio State Board of Education members. I am confident these four appointees are committed to high standards, believe in effective oversight and transparency, and will be strong public servants who will support and strengthen Ohio’s public education system for all Ohio students.

These individuals will bring strong backgrounds and diverse public education experience to the Board. They include former teachers, a former local school board member and a former education association executive. The Ohio Education Association will continue to support these new appointees and looks forward to working with them and the entire State Board of Education to provide great public schools for every child.”

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

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Educators train to identify at-risk students and enlist partners to help

Members and leaders of the Ohio Education Association are hoping to share with participants at a statewide drop-out prevention summit what works and doesn’t work when it comes to helping students to stay in school. The summit, Supporting Student Success, sponsored by the Ohio State Board of Regents, will take place on Monday, November 17, 2008, at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, 400 N. High Street, Columbus, Ohio, beginning at 9:30 a.m.

“When thousands of Ohio’s young people drop out of high school, it’s more than a crisis, it’s a catastrophe,” said Patricia Frost-Brooks, president of the Ohio Education Association. “It’s important for other leaders in our community join forces with teachers and parents to help students find their way and to ensure our schools are places where every student can achieve.”

The Ohio Education Association is just one of many NEA affiliates participating in and helping shape 50 state drop-out prevention summits occurring across the country this year and in 2009. 

NEA and its affiliates have developed a 12-point plan to address the nation's drop-out crisis, which includes the following:

•     Mandating high school graduation or equivalency as compulsory for everyone below the age of 21

•     Establishing high school graduation centers for students 19–21 years old

•     Ensuring students receive individual attention

•     Expanding students’ graduation options through partnerships with community colleges in career and technical fields and with alternative schools

•     Increasing career education and workforce readiness programs

•     Acting early so students do not drop out

•     Involving families in students’ learning at school and at home in new and creative ways so that all families can support their children’s academic achievement

•     Monitoring students’ academic progress in school through a variety of measures during the school year

•     Gathering accurate data for key student groups and adopting the standardized reporting method developed by the National Governors Association

•     Involving the entire community in dropout prevention

•     Ensuring educators have the training and resources they need to prevent students from dropping out

•     Making high school graduation a federal priority.  

For more information, visit www.ohea.org

# # #

COLUMBUS—The Ohio Education Association, the state’s largest professional organization with over 130,000 members, demonstrated its size and influence in this year’s election by engaging tens of thousands of its members in every precinct and every congressional district throughout the state. OEA spearheaded an unprecedented effort to mobilize its members and their families to elect friends of public education at the national, state and local levels.

The road to the White House once again passed through Ohio, the state that has voted with the winner of the past 11 U.S. presidential elections. The engaged and mobilized OEA vote made a difference in the presidential election with Sen. Barack Obama claiming victory in Ohio.  OEA members and their families included over 270,000 potential voters. The perennial importance of Ohio as an important swing state in presidential elections continued with the 2008 elections.

“Sen. Obama’s victory is a victory for students and public education across the country,” said OEA President Pat Frost-Brooks. “Ohio’s parents and educators showed they can join together to lead the change. Great public schools are worth working and voting for!”

OEA capitalized on the strength of its members and their families in an aggressive member-to-member get out the vote campaign. The Association distributed more than 1.7 million pieces of mail and made 120,000 phone calls to teachers, education support professionals, retired educators, students and higher education instructors. The day prior to the election alone over 15,000 phone messages were left for OEA members. Over 100,000 members received at least one piece of direct mail. More than 2,500 OEA members attended Obama rallies across the state, and hundreds of volunteers participated in phone banks. NEA leaders also joined hundreds of OEA members and their families in statewide canvassing efforts and AFL-CIO statewide walks.

More than 20,000—nearly 20 percent—of OEA members took advantage of early voting, according to an NEA survey.  Media reports indicated early voters broke records across the country. In the 2004 election, one in five Americans of voting age voted before Election Day. In 2008, that number was estimated to increase to one in three voters.

Yesterday’s historic election delivered more than a few winners for Ohio’s public schools thanks to wins by pro-public education candidates across the state. Richard Cordray was elected Ohio’s new attorney general. Cordray has earned the respect of the entire education community for his lifelong commitment to serving children and public education.  Two OEA recommended candidates for Ohio’s State Board of Education won in their districts. Numerous friends of education were elected in congressional districts across the state.  And independent staff from OEA and NEA, working with the Campaign for a Moderate Majority,  played a vital role in critical state legislative  races that helped Democrats take the majority in the Ohio House of Representatives.

“We’re very proud of the work we’ve done throughout Ohio,” said Frost-Brooks. “We’ve had outstanding participation from our members throughout the state, and because of their work we were able to secure victories for public education at the local, state and national levels.”

Ohio college students also urged the presidential candidates not to forget the issue of college affordability. Miami University of Ohio, Central State University, Kent State University and Ohio State University participated in “Got Tuition?,” a national, nonpartisan campaign bringing the issues of college affordability and the long-term effects of student loan debt to the forefront of public policy debates. OEA and NEA leaders handed out information about candidates’ positions on this issue at the events and asked participants to sign a petition urging Congress to make college more affordable. Obama ranked quality public schools and affordable higher education among his top three priorities.

Roughly a third of Ohio’s school districts had a levy or bond issue on the ballot. A large number of school levies were passed, including a big win for Columbus Public Schools. OEA and NEA invested in a long-term program to increase public support for school finances. They worked to increase passage of local school levies through the use of voter modeling, creative media, close teamwork with coalition partners and aggressive field mobilization of voters. The organizations supported school bond issues and levy votes with a comprehensive program of cable television and newspaper advertising in many areas of Ohio for the election.

OEA and NEA also worked closely with  Working America, a community affiliate of the AFL-CIO with over 10 million union men and women , to canvass and communicate with  over 2 million households in Ohio who were pro-public education. NEA made the largest contribution from an  institutional donor to Working America Ohio to help finance this activity.

The work of OEA was part of a national effort led by the National Education Association to elect friends of public education. NEA was a huge voting bloc with 3.2 million members. When immediate family members are factored in, that audience grew to more than 5 million potential voters.

“At every level of government, we saw victories for students, educators and public education, and NEA’s 3.2 million members should be proud of the role they played in this historic election,” said NEA President Dennis Van Roekel. “This is an incredible opportunity to begin to correct the failed education policies of the Bush administration and prepare our students to compete in a 21st century economy.”

NEA employed multifaceted, personalized communication tools based on sophisticated micro-targeting models. Recognizing from previous years that its members do not vote solely on education issues, the Association crafted targeted communications to address the economic and top-line concerns of its diverse membership. In addition to traditional phone banking and canvassing operations, NEA communicated targeted messages to different segments of its membership through Web sites, emails and blogs.

NEA and its affiliates:
• Distributed more than 21.3 million pieces of mail
• Made more than 2.1 million phone calls
• Sent more than 4.5 million emails to members in battleground states
• Began defining John McCain in the spring, sending 5 million pieces of mail before Labor Day.

# # #
The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional employee organization,
representing 3.2 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators and students preparing to become teachers.

The Ohio Education Association (OEA) Fund for Children and Public Education (FCPE) State Convention announced its endorsements of State Board of Education Candidates for the November 4, 2008, statewide ballot.

“Our candidates have demonstrated that they support public education and working with teachers and public school students.  We believe these candidates will support our effort to create great public schools in Ohio,” said OEA President Patricia Frost-Brooks.

OEA Recommended State Board of Education Candidates

District 1 (Northwest Ohio)           Tracey Smith
District 5 (Exurban Cleveland)           Richard Javorek
District 6 (Columbus Metro)           Kristen McKinley
District 7 (Northeastern Ohio)         Heather Heslop Licata
District 9 (Southeastern Ohio)            Michael Collins
District 10 (Southern Ohio)                Jane Sonenshein
District 11 (Cleveland)                      Martha Harris

The State Board of Education is a crucial body, setting many policies around school curriculum, professional development, educational licenses and much more.  Of the 19 members of the board, 11 are elected, and eight are appointed by the Governor.  The elections and appointments are for four-year terms. According to Frost-Brooks, “Educators will be well served by OEA’s endorsement of these candidates based upon their vision for public education in Ohio.”

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

The Ohio Education Association, representing 130,000 teachers and school support personnel, today said it will oppose legislation being introduced by Senator John Carey, R-Wellston, that would eliminate the right of educators to strike from the Ohio public employees collective bargaining statute.

In a statement, OEA President Patricia Frost-Brooks outlined why OEA opposes the no-strike bill as a threat to balanced collective bargaining for education employees in Ohio. She said:

“The OEA strongly opposes any weakening of Ohio’s longstanding collective bargaining law, which has empowered teachers to advocate for many improvements in teaching and learning conditions that have benefited students.

“The so-called reform proposal to eliminate the right to strike would undermine a carefully balanced law that has proven successful in helping educators and school boards resolve issues to their mutual benefit in a way that also helps Ohio students.

“Ohio’s collective bargaining law has created a framework for problem-solving that has made strikes rare and short in duration.  When strikes do occur, the issues at stake have a direct impact on teaching and learning conditions.

“Collective bargaining itself, including the right to strike, came about as a labor reform intended to help educators and school boards develop consensus on key education issues and the terms and conditions of employment.

“We agree that binding arbitration and mediation are important tools to resolve specific contractual disputes, and we have negotiated arbitration and mediation procedures within local collective bargaining agreements. Strikes are a last resort after other dispute resolution processes fail. We cannot support the elimination of the right of employees to withhold their services.”

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Barack Obama chose Ohio as the place to lay out a comprehensive vision for public education in a speech at Stebbins High School in the Dayton area. Despite some mistaken analysis of the speech by the media, Obama’s positions on a wide variety of issues are quite close to core beliefs of the National Education Association (NEA), the Ohio Education Association (OEA) and our members. OEA members applauded his approach – to rise above partisanship toward a vision for a public education system that works.

“Senator Barack Obama understands that reform takes time and dedication and that true reform requires more than quick fixes,” said OEA President Patricia Frost-Brooks. “His compelling vision and comprehensive strategies, both immediate and long-term, will pay dividends for our children, our communities and our state.”

• fixing and funding NCLB – after eight years of unfunded mandates
• enhanced programs for recruiting, preparing and retaining teachers
• overcoming the overemphasis on high-stakes tests
• promoting 21st century skills, innovation and creativity
• expanding early childhood programs so children come to school prepared to learn
• calling for parental responsibility and involvement in the education of their children – both at school and in the home
• pushing college-level coursework in high schools, such as advanced placement courses
• holding the federal government accountable for its commitments on education. 
• finding “new ways to increase teacher pay that are developed with teachers, not imposed on them,” affirming collective bargaining rights.

On charter schools, Obama said Ohio should not have to endure private for-profit charter school operators who continue to sponsor under-performing public schools. He promised to:

• work with governors in all states to insist on more accountability and transparency in the operation and academic performance evaluations of charter schools.
• help successful charter schools grow, but close down the ones that are failing.

“Obama confirmed the OEA’s longstanding belief that Ohio’s charter schools are in desperate need of accountability and transparency,” said Frost-Brooks.

The Ohio Education Association represents 130,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals in Ohio's public schools, colleges and universities.

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Overall student performance in Ohio continues to improve according to the 2007-2008 report cards results released today by the Ohio Department of Education.

“These results clearly show that the dedicated teachers in Ohio are the catalyst to providing  great public schools for every child,” says Patricia Frost-Brooks, president of the Ohio Education Association. “Despite the deplorable funding situation for Ohio’s public schools, the hard work of our teachers and students across the state is something all Ohioans can be proud of.”

“Teachers in classrooms throughout Ohio know what improves education – not federal or state mandates but quality teachers, smaller class sizes, greater community and parental involvement and up-to-date textbooks and technology,” says Frost-Brooks. “While the children in Ohio’s public schools can celebrate many successes, Ohio still must fight to close the achievement gaps between groups of students  based on race, poverty, gender, disability and language background.  OEA will continue to work with other public education advocates to correct these inadequacies such as the 21-point difference in third-grade reading scores between poor and wealthier students and the 19-point gap in the graduation rate between black and white students.”

“The Ohio Education Association is committed to helping teachers improve the quality of public schools in creating the world-class education system that prepares our children for the challenges of a rapidly changing global society.”

The Coldwater Teachers Organization has donated a collection of books to the Coldwater Schools Library to begin the new school year. The books, all of which were written by Ohio authors or authors writing in Ohio, were purchased at auction at the National Education Association Representative Assembly in Washington DC using funds donated by C.T.O. members.  Sophia Rodriguez, president of the C.T.O., explained the donation: "The Coldwater Teachers Organization believes in promoting educational programs and the public education of the students in our local school district. Our school libraries are integral parts of the educational system and the CTO believes in promoting learning through reading. We are proud that our donation will go to foster that learning through the enjoyment of the written word."

 Books donated included:

Fire from the Rock by Sharon M. Draper

Metropolis Burning by Karen Kovacik

Chasing Redbird by Sharon Creech

Trains in the Distance by Paul Zimmer

Goodnight Kiss by R.L. Stine

Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbit

The Wright Sister-Katherine Wright and Her Famous Brothers by Richard Maurer

COLUMBUS - Public school districts are more successful in raising student achievement than the independent system of privately operated charter schools, according to data released by the Ohio Department of Education today.

“If you look at the recently released school district report cards,” said Barbara Shaner, chair of the Coalition for Public Education, “you will see that traditional public schools posted higher performance than privately operated charter schools in each tested subject at each grade level by gaps as large as double-digit percentage points.

According to ODE data collected from all Ohio schools, 2 in 3 charter schools (158 of them) earned a failing rating by the state compared to just 1 in 11 public non-charter schools. Clearly, this makes public school districts - students’ neighborhood schools - the better educational choice in Ohio.

The Coalition for Public Education celebrates the successful trend of improvement demonstrated by public school districts. At the same time, we are dismayed at lawmakers' failure to enact accountability measures to protect the interests of charter school students, taxpayers and the public. The state has spent more than $2.8 billion of Ohio taxpayer money on this substandard system of failing charter schools.

“Not only are charter schools posting poor results relating to academic accountability, they are also failing to meet accountability measures for their business and financial responsibilities. Too many charter schools are unable to account for how their public money was used,” she said. “According to Auditor of State reports, charter schools lack the basic fiscal safeguards and accountability measures that are part of the very fabric of our neighborhood public school districts. These charter schools have been deemed inauditable.

“For more than a decade, Ohio’s public school districts have proven that they are the better choice for students than charter schools. Ohio taxpayers should not have to pay for educational choices that do not educate Ohio’s children.”

The Coalition for Public Education is a statewide alliance of education, parent and civic organizations interested in improving public education for Ohio’s children and increasing accountability to taxpayers.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Mary Binegar
(937) 360-1554

May 22, 2008

The Urbana City Schools Board of Education and the Urbana Association of Classroom Teachers (UACT) declared impasse on May 22, 2008.

The parties’ current collective bargaining agreement required the parties to re-open the contract to negotiate limited issues affecting working conditions. Declaring impasse effectively brought any further discussion to a screeching halt until a federal mediator’s assistance is available.

UACT’s Bargaining Chair Mary Binegar said, “The community sacrificially passed the levy in March so that the school system could move forward. It’s disheartening that negotiations have broken down while issues dealing with the quality of education available to the children of Urbana, as well as financial concerns, are still on the table.

Since the passage of the March levy, six elementary classrooms, an elementary counseling position, and an elementary art position have been eliminated. At the High School, industrial arts and graphic arts programs have been eliminated.

UACT President Janet Hains also fears the District is moving backward by “failing to support [our] teachers by not maintaining reasonable class size, by not providing an enriched curriculum for our students, and by not providing support for our students.”

The Board declared impasse in November 2007 during the parties’ initial attempt to negotiate this Agreement. Binegar added, “To me, going to impasse twice in one year epitomizes the lack of communication and respect within the Urbana school system. UACT’s goal is to create a work place that will recruit and retain quality teachers in order to provide the best education possible within the financial limitations of this community. Our teachers have worked faithfully throughout the past year without a raise in their base pay, in hopes of completing the bargaining process this spring and ending the year on a positive, promising note. Instead we’re left questioning what the future holds.”

(Arlington, Va.)––The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) – the organization that sets and maintains the standards for teacher excellence – announced today that Thomas C. Trang, an Ohio National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT), has been elected to the NBPTS Board of Directors.

“Thomas brings a passion for education and a commitment to improving teaching and learning in our schools,” said former Georgia Governor Roy E. Barnes, chair of the NBPTS Board of Directors. “He is an accomplished professional in every sense and will be a major asset for our organization as we advance our mission and prepare America’s diverse student population with the skills needed to compete in the 21st century workplace.”

A science teacher at Metro High School in Columbus, Ohio, Trang was a recipient of the 2005 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and a Fulbright teacher in 2003. He was also a recipient of the Ohio Governor Award for Excellence in Teaching and a Disney Excellence in Teaching nominee.

 “I am pleased to join an organization that has such a direct impact on improving teaching and learning,” said Trang. “I am looking forward to sharing my perceptions as a National Board Certified Teacher, not only with other teachers across the country, but policymakers and other education stakeholders. As we increase the number of these accomplished teachers, more students will have access to a quality education.”

There are currently 55,300 NBCTs in the United States, including more than 2,600 in Ohio. Research demonstrates these outstanding educators consistently outperform their peers in knowledge of subject matter and ability to create challenging and engaging lessons.  

National Board Certification® is a voluntary assessment program designed to recognize and reward great teachers – and make them better. While state licensing systems set basic requirements to teach in each state, NBCTs have successfully demonstrated advanced teaching knowledge, skills and practices. Certification is achieved through a rigorous, performance-based assessment that typically takes one to three years to complete.

As part of the process, teachers build a portfolio that includes student work samples, assignments, videotapes and a thorough analysis of their classroom teaching. Additionally, teachers are assessed on their knowledge of the subjects they teach.

For more information about the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards and National Board Certification, visit www.nbpts.org.

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The Ohio Education Association (OEA) elected Patricia Frost-Brooks to head Ohio’s largest education employee union.  OEA represents 130,000 teachers, education support professionals, higher education faculty and is the fifth largest state affiliate of the 3.2 million-member National Education Association.

Frost-Brooks ran unopposed and was elected by acclamation of the OEA’s Representative Assembly (RA), the governing body of the organization.  The RA is comprised of more than 1,300 member delegates from OEA local affiliates throughout Ohio.

Frost-Brooks is currently serving a three-year term as OEA Vice President and will begin her new term September 1, 2007.  She has served as OEA Vice-President for the past six years. An active OEA member throughout her entire career, Frost-Brooks worked as a middle school computer science/word processing teacher for the East Cleveland City Schools before being elected OEA’s vice president in 2001.

As Vice President, Frost-Brooks has chaired OEA’s Comprehensive Education Committee and served as Chair of the Legislative Commission. She has served in a wide variety of association positions and was president of the North Eastern OEA and president of the East Cleveland Education Association.  Frost-Brooks earned a Bachelor’s degree from Capitol University and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Ashland University.

South-Western City School’s teacher William Leibensperger has been elected vice president serving a three-year term.  Leibensperger, a member of the National Education Association executive committee, served as the OEA secretary-treasurer from 2000-2006. His other professional activities include being a member of the Annenberg Institute at Brown University, a reader for the Advanced Placement program for The College Board and a member of the Board of Examiners for the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.  Leibensperger earned his Bachelor of Science degree at Miami University (Ohio) and his Master’s degree from the Ohio State University.

The Representative assembly also honored the late Tom Mooney, former president of the Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT), as the 2007 Friend of Education. Mooney died suddenly last December after serving as the OFT president since 2000. “Tom was a passionate advocate for progressive changes in education.  He favored, and was very good at, building coalitions across the education community and bringing other varied groups of people together to talk about and work toward common goals,” said Gary Allen, president of the Ohio Education Association.

OEA representatives also passed a one-time $25 dues increase for the 2007-2008 school years to support the public education school funding constitutional amendment slated for the November 2007 election.  

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The Ohio Education Association is the state’s largest professional employee organization and represents 130,000 teachers, education support professionals and higher education faculty in Ohio’s public schools, colleges and universities.

10/11/2006 A Response to the Fordham Institute Report, "Turning the Corner on Quality"

10/11/06 New OEA Research on Effects of Charter Schools

 10/02/06 Ohio National Board Certified Teachers to Meet for First-Ever Education Policy Summit

09/19/06 School Funding Burden Shifts Toward Local Property Taxes, Says New OEA Study: Ohio School Funding Fact Base

08/-3/06 OEA Releases 2006 Charter Schools Report (news release)
Click here to see the complete report

06/20/06 OEA Announces Endorsements

05/08/06 James Timlin Elected Secretary-Treasurer

05/04/06 Strickland to attend OEA Representative Assembly

04/18/06 Ohio Education Association files Amicus Brief with District Court

03/15/06 Health Care Pooling Board Opens Up Feasibility Study Process

03/09/2006 Local Educators Receive National Grants

02/16/2006 Ohio Education Association Endorses Ted Strickland for Governor

01/24/2006 OEA Teacher Consensus Across the Political Spectrum: Ohio Legislators and School Policies Performing Poorly.
Click here to read the full OEA member survey report.

08/17/04 OEA Letter to Dayton Daily News Regarding NCLB and Charter School Failures

08/06/04 OEA School Levy Release FINAL

08/09/04 Press Release regarding August Town Hall Meeting in OH with Rodney Paige

08/06/04 Op-Ed:The Realities of No Child Left Behind

08/02/04 Letter to the Editor: August Elections

07/29/04 Federal Aid for Ohio's Public Schools Falls Far Short

06/09/04 OEA Files Community Schools Lawsuit

05/11/04 OEA responds to NCLB and Ohio School Funding

05/05/04 Ohio Voter Survey Shows School Funding is a Major Concern

05/01/04 OEA Elects President and Vice President

03/04/04 Oho Schools Face Fiscal Crisis

02/24/04 OEA To Secretary Paige: You Left No Insult Behind!

02/23/04 Cuts Leave Ohio Public School Children Behind

6/20/03 General Assembly Budget Sent to Taft Falls Short, says OEA

5/28/03 Leibensperger Re-elected to OEA Secretary-Treasurer

5/7/03 OEA Reacts to Ohio Supreme Court Ruling

5/4/03 OEA Moves to Consolidate Community Schools Lawsuits

3/17/03 Legal Action Filed to Rescind Order Reducing Public School Funding

3/05/03 OEA Calls Education Cuts Destructive

1/22/03 Study Indicates Tax Breaks My Be Counterproductive to Education, Economic Development

11/09/05 November School Levy Election Results

7/23/05 OEA Op-Ed to New York Times: Reports of Charter School Success Based on Faulty Premise

9/13/05 OEA Applauds Teachers on State Report Cards

4/4/05 OEA Applauds New Charter School Report

3/4/05 Public School Employees Under Misguided Attack for Ohio School Funding Crisis

3/01/05 OEA Praises Latest Bipartisan Findings that 'No Child Left Behind' Law Urgently Needs Repairs

2/3/05 Letter to the Editor, Columbus Dispatch

02/10/05 School Funding-Going, Going, Gone Press Release