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N Governo , N Legislatu , S me OS oy W th e Econom
Regional Legislative, Evaluation Meetings Scheduled page 12 Published by the TENNESSEE EDUCATION ASSOCIATION January 2011 Vol. 42, No. 5 www.teateachers.org Waiting for Haslam. New Governor, New Legislature, Same Old Story With the Economy page 3 teach (USPS 742-450) is published monthly (except for June, July and December) by the Tennessee Education Association, 801 Second Avenue North, Nashville TN 37201-1099. Periodical postage paid at Nashville, TN. The subscription price of $3.65 is allocated from annual membership dues of $254.00 for active members; $127.00 for associate, education support and staff members; $16.00 for retired members; and $10.00 for student members. Member of State Education Editors Conference (SEE). Postmaster: Send address changes to teach, 801 Second Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37201-1099. MANAGING EDITOR: Alexei Smirnov asmirnov@tea.nea.org PUBLISHER: Alphonso C. Mance MANAGER OF COMMUNICATIONS: A.L. Hayes Tennessee Education Association 801 Second Avenue North Nashville, TN 37201-1099 Telephone: (615)242-8392, Toll Free: (800)342-8367, (800)342-8262 Fax: (615)242-7397 Web site: www.teateachers.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT: Gera Summerford* (800)342-8367 VICE PRESIDENT: Barbara Gray* (901)353-8590 SECRETARY-TREASURER: Alphonso C. Mance (615)242-8392 DISTRICT 1 Karen Anderson* (423)610-6030 DISTRICT 2 Melinda Reese (423)587-2120 DISTRICT 3 Patsye Thurmon (865)457-1636 DISTRICT 4 Jessica Holman (865)591-4981 DISTRICT 5 Sandy Smith (423)991-8856 DISTRICT 6 Beth Brown (931)779-8016 DISTRICT 7 Patrick Britt (615)668-6042 DISTRICT 8 Cindy Young (931)205-0399 DISTRICT 9 Erick Huth (615)973-5851 DISTRICT 10 Guy Stanley (615)384-2983 DISTRICT 11 Melanie Buchanan (615)305-2214 DISTRICT 12 Debbie D’Angelo (731)247-3152 DISTRICT 13 LoMay Richmond* (901)867-1541 DISTRICT 14 Sarah Kennedy-Harper (901)416-4582 DISTRICT 15 Stephanie Fitzgerald (901)872-4878 ADMINISTRATOR EAST Carmelita Perry (865)594-4471 ADMINISTRATOR MIDDLE Margaret Thompson (615)643-7823 ADMINISTRATOR WEST Charles Green (901)624-6186 HIGHER EDUCATION Donald Sneed (931) 221-0633 BLACK CLASSROOM TEACHER EAST Tanya T. Coats (865)594-1330 BLACK CLASSROOM TEACHER MIDDLE Alzenia Walls (615)230-8144 BLACK CLASSROOM TEACHER WEST LaVerne Dickerson (901)416-7122 STATE SPECIAL SCHOOLS Joe Gregory (615)896-6927 ESP Christine Denton (931)647-8962 TN NEA DIRECTOR Stephen Henry (615)519-5691 TN NEA DIRECTOR Diccie Smith (901)482-0627 TN NEA DIRECTOR Diane Lillard* (423)478-8827 STEA MEMBER Delvin Woodard (901)596-5706 TN RETIRED Gerald Lillard (423)478-8827 NEW TEACHER LarryProffitt*(423)608-7855 * Executive Committee TEA HEADQUARTERS STAFF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Alphonso C. Mance; ASST. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, AFFILIATE SERVICES: Mitchell Johnson; ASST. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, PROGRAM SERVICES: Carol K. Schmoock; ASST. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & TEA GENERAL COUNSEL; Bryan McCarty; MANAGER OF BUSINESS AFFAIRS: Stephanie Faulkner; INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY & SYSTEMS MANAGER, Galen Riggs; MANAGER OF UNISERV: Ronny Clemmons; MANAGER OF UNISERV & BARGAINING COORDINATOR: Donna Cotner; STAFF ATTORNEYS: Tina Rose Camba, Katherine Curlee, Virginia A. McCoy; MANAGER OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS: Jerry Winters; GOVERNMENT RELATIONS ASSISTANT: Antoinette Lee; MANAGER OF COMMUNICATIONS & GRAPHICS: A.L. Hayes; WEB MASTER & COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT: Tanya Ruder; MANAGING EDITOR & COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT: Alexei Smirnov; MANAGER OF RESEARCH & INFORMATION: Melissa Brown; RESEARCH & INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Susan Ogg, Amanda Staggs; MANAGER FOR INSTRUCTION & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Terrance Gibson; INSTRUCTION & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COORDINATORS: Susan Dalton, Nicki Fields; COORDINATOR OF MEMBERSHIP &AFFILIATERELATIONS: Duran Williams; PLT—UNISERV FIELDORGANIZERS:JeffGarrett,CherylRichardson,RhondaThompson. UniServ Staff Contact Information can be found on page 12. 2 Speaking Out for You Gera Summerford, President New Year Brings New Opportunities Welcome, 2011! As we begin a new year, we face many changes in public education and in state government. The work to develop a new evaluation model for teachers and principals continues. Educators have a new chance to share their views of the teaching and learning conditions in their schools. And the challenge of higher curriculum standards moves us into new territory. In Nashville, a new governor and state legislature will take office and begin the work of governing our state while grappling with a strained economy. Many of them will be entering this work for the first time. A time of change can be a time of opportunity. The reforms of First to the Top will provide opportunities to improve student performance. Local school systems will have new opportunities to provide quality professional development for educators. New relationships with policymakers will give us the opportunity to communicate the needs of students and teachers. As newly-elected legislators prepare to govern and make critical decisions for the future of our state, it’s important they understand the challenges involved in improving education. It’s our job to help them understand these challenges. Though many things will change, many will remain constant. Tennessee educators will continue to make every effort to help students in our classrooms. We will continue to consult with our colleagues, make use of all available resources, and develop our best practices. Children will still come to school each day with a variety of talents and abilities, and will still need our guidance to develop and grow into productive citizens. Teachers, principals and support staff will still need the support of families and communities to effectively improve student learning. Though budgets are tight, appropriate supplies and materials are still necessary for children to receive a quality educational experience. These things don’t change when a new state government is elected or a new reform effort is legislated. While teachers continue to work hard in their classrooms, TEA members and staff will continue to work hard to represent your interests. In local associations across the state, our members will persist in bargaining local contracts. With the help of our UniServ coordinators, meetings will again be held with legislators to share our concerns and communicate our positions. When school employees are treated unfairly, local association leaders and TEA staff will consistently stand by you and stand for you. And in Nashville, every time the legislature convenes, TEA is there. Every time the State Board of Education meets, TEA is there. Every time decisions are made that affect what goes on in our schools, TEA fights for Tennessee’s teachers and their best interests. We are the voice of educators speaking on your behalf to state government—in 2011 and beyond. Al Mance, Executive Director Commitment to Professional Teaching Requires Determination in Tough Times Pervasive public discussions about failing schools have been at the core of education change since 1983. While the 1980’s discussions were precipitated by publication of A Nation at Risk, the current national education discussions are stimulated by the near collapse of America’s economic system. During times of economic recession Americans tend to look for someone to blame. The public looks for something outside of themselves to hold accountable for the prevailing conditions. When all else fails they blame public school teachers, thus avoiding individual responsibility. George Bernard Shaw said, “Liberty means responsibility. That is why most men dread it.” The public has assigned to public school teachers the moral obligation to successfully teach all students. Career professional teachers have always accepted this obligation. They will not shrink from it now. The public has never understood professional teaching but thinks it does. To everyone who has attended school, teaching looks deceptively easy. Exploiting this perception of teachers gave No Child Left Behind its political traction. The parent who feels good about teaching her infant may be perplexed when the child becomes a toddler and begins to speak. That same confident parent who becomes a public school teacher quickly learns how woefully inadequate his or her parenting skills are for teaching 20 first graders. Of course, anyone who has not studied education should not be expected to understand the complexities of teaching. Teachers do not teach only those students they have known and watched develop from birth to their classroom. Public school students come from diverse backgrounds. It is the professional’s job to teach all of them. The contextual factors of socioeconomics, class size, interruptions, number of absentees, racial makeup of the class, and day of the week will all influence the teachers’ “instructional behaviors.” The gap between the status and value of the teaching profession is born, in part, of the distorted image the public has of its complexity. The profession has not yet developed the rhetoric necessary to explain this complexity to the public and policy makers and to develop their trust. It must fight for a place in the education policy-making arena that allows its voice to be heard in decision making about the conditions and contextual influences under which professional teaching is practiced. This is the fight we are facing. The use of student growth data, as measured by standardized tests, in teacher evaluation; incentive compensation schemes based on student growth data; calls for increases in the length of probationary periods; and the definition of effective teaching based on standardized test data are direct results of the public’s misperception of professional teaching. The recent shift of power in the Tennessee General Assembly may generate new state education “reform” initiatives. Any probability that they will produce improvements in teaching and learning conditions for Tennessee’s teachers and students is exceedingly small. It is the job of professional teachers to give ideas a fair hearing and prevent destructive proposals from being adopted or implemented. Our moral obligation to educate Tennessee’s boys and girls demand it. Your commitment and willingness to help is needed now more than ever. You count. Governor-elect Bill Haslam on Education On January 15, Governor-elect Bill Haslam will be sworn in to lead Tennessee for the next four years. As TEA looks forward to constructive dialog with our 49th governor, we compiled a few statements on education that candidate Haslam made during his election campaign. Successful organizations have effective leaders. In business and as mayor, it’s been obvious to me that leadership matters. Our schools need good leadership as well. The right principal will bring in high quality teachers, support, develop and retain those teachers, and create the right environment for students to learn. As I’ve traveled the state visiting schools, meeting with teachers and principals, and talking with local education officials, I’ve seen examples of innovative programs that are popping up all across Tennessee. With major recent outside investments in Tennessee, including the Gates Foundation and Memphis City Schools’ Teacher Effectiveness Initiative and the announcement of Tennessee’s win in the Race to the Top competition, it’s clear that the rest of the country is beginning to notice the momentum that is building around education in Tennessee. As governor, I will capitalize on the opportunity that exists, and a big part of that will be doing whatever it takes to bring the best and brightest into teaching in our great state. Education is our best long-term economic development strategy. If we want our children to grow up and obtain good jobs—and for our state to be able to attract those jobs—we need a world class education system. With Tennessee students ranking 41st out of 50 states on national tests and nearly 28,000 students dropping out of high school in a given year, we’ve got to do better. The next governor of Tennessee must work tirelessly to improve our schools. [The] announcement that Tennessee [is] one of the first winners of the federal Race to the Top competition is a recognition of the outstanding efforts of many people and institutions across the state. . . Tennessee has been building towards an opportunity to transform our schools and accomplish meaningful, lasting reforms that will benefit generations to come. The challenge that comes with [this] announcement will be effective implementation of nonrecurring funding to make sure our state secures the maximum benefits from the award without imposing future obligations on our state and local districts. From my years in business, I know that every location needs a well-trained leader working on-site with enough autonomy to make good decisions—a leader who can be held accountable for the operation under his or her supervision. The next governor must have a strategy for bringing more high quality teachers into the profession. We have many outstanding teachers across the state and we’re making strides in the area of teacher evaluation and development. However, the state is facing a serious challenge on the teaching front: At the same time we’re working to improve the quality of teaching we’ve got to increase the quantity of teachers we’re successfully recruiting. The bottom line is that no one knows better than parents what is best for their individual child. We have to get parents involved in their child’s education, and we have to put them in the driver’s seat. It’s essential that every classroom in Tennessee is led by a highly effective teacher. My strategy will not be to simply wait and hope they come to us. I will lead an aggressive effort to widen and strengthen the pipeline into teaching and actively recruit the best talent. I want to improve education in Tennessee school by school. To me, it starts with good principals. Let’s recruit the right people, give them the best training, and then give them the freedom to lead. January 2011 3 www.teateachers.org TEA Members Report Progress, Challenges With Evaluation Work Would like to see more feedback from colleagues TEA members on the Teacher Evaluation Advisory share documents and suggestions, will demonstrate Committee would like to see and hear more feedback how receptive teachers are to sharing ideas online. TEA President Gera Summerford said more than from Tennessee’s teachers as TEAC helps craft the 100 TEA members have volunteered to participate in evaluation model required by the Tennessee First to developing alternate growth measures for teachers the Top Act. of non-TVAAS subjects. Formed shortly after our state received its Summerford also welcomed feedback from $501 million Race to the Top grant from the U.S. teachers at schools which are currently field-testing Department of Education in April 2010, TEAC’s 15the Teacher Advancement Program observation member panel has been meeting every two weeks rubric, as well as other models. (sometimes via conference call) to devise the new “The schools currently testing other models teacher and principal evaluation system expected for may seek approval from the state to use them in rollout during the 2011-12 school year. the future,” said Summerford. “We’re interested in Since he began his work on the TEAC panel last hearing from teachers in field-test schools to see year, Jackson-Madison Co. EA member Jimmy Bailey how well it’s working.” Summerford may be reached said only three people have contacted him by e-mail (jabailey@jmcss.org). While he knows that everyone via e-mail at gsummerford@tea.nea.org. Carter Co. Teachers Association member Kenny is pressed for time these days, he encourages more Lou Heaton, also a member of TEAC, has high feedback from his colleagues. “TEA members need hopes for the TEAC recommendations. “I expect to contact TEAC members and voice their concerns,” recommendations made by TEAC, thus far, for said Bailey, principal at Bemis Elementary School in the formation and Jackson. “If somebody implementation doesn’t tell us how they of a new teacher feel about it, we’re not TEA President Gera Summerford: evaluation model going to know which “We’re interested in hearing from to work very well,” direction we should go.” Heaton said. “I have Throughout the teachers in field-test schools to always been of the process, TEA members see how well it’s working.” E-mail and staff have worked personal belief that to ensure that the new teachers, just like Gera: gsummerford@tea.nea.org evaluation system is the students we face fair to all those who will each day, will rise be evaluated by it, is to the occasion and easily understood and implemented, and will lead reach for the ‘bar’ when it is raised by enthusiastic, to the identification and development of effective supportive, intelligent, and strong instructional teachers and principals in every Tennessee school school leaders.” Heaton observed that not a and classroom. word coming from TEAC has been written without “Please send e-mails, make sure you voice research, discussion, and consensus—“always with your opinion, go to the Web site (http://www. what is best for the children forefront in our minds.” tn.gov/education/TEAC.shtml) and sign up for Still, there are a few challenges. As work the newsletters and breaking news,” Bailey said. continues on the development of the alternate “Any time we meet, you’ll be able to look at the growth measure for non-TVAAS teachers, agenda and be sure to let us know what you don’t Summerford said Tennessee’s teachers are concerned understand. Let one of the TEAC members know.” with the timeline for the development of these Among the most recent developments, principal measures. evaluation guidelines have been recommended and “The policy says that teachers without TVAAS the evaluation is currently being field-tested based data will use school-wide data until the appropriate on the TILS platform. Just as teachers are being growth measures are developed,” she said. “We know observed by principals, the principal evaluation now that many of our members have concerns about the requires observations from the director of schools. use of school-wide data.” The development of online worksite portals for Also on the radar are questions about a school the new evaluation system is still in progress. The board’s ability to impartially resolve a teacher’s field test of those portals, which resembles a virtual grievance when there is a question about the data meeting room where participants will be able to use in the new evaluation procedure. TEA Scholarships Can Help With Rising Tuition Costs School Visit—Memphis EA members visited Westwood High School in November. Pictured, from left to right: Susan Harris, school librarian and MEA member; Derrick Bell, MEA organizer; Victoria Norris, a first-year teacher and new MEA member, and Mariangela Galbon, MEA Organizer. MEA— working together for all members! National Board Meeting—Ten districts in the Upper Cumberland area of Middle Tennessee will be participating in a National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) Take One! initiative. The Take One! participants will be supported by TEA members and other key educators who have gone through the NBPTS Candidate Support Provider training which was held at the Sumner County Teacher Center on November 19-20. Trained Candidate Support Providers pictured here (left to right) include Cheryl Griggs, NBCT (Sumner EA); Betsy Taylor, NBCT (Williamson EA); Joan Celestino, NBCT (NBPTS Faculty member kneeling); Shannon Bain (UniServ for District 12); Lori Sapp, NBCT (Putnam EA), Rita Wilburn (Macon EA); Becky Hackett (Smith EA); Sharon Anderson (Putnam EA); Mary Pappas (Sumner EA); Sandra Smith (Sumner EA); Mary Truka (Sumner EA); Kathy Butler (Sumner EA); and Linda Cash (Sumner EA). TEA Salutes New National Board Certified Teachers Holiday Discounts—Cheatham County EA members met at Ashland City Elementary School in December to participate in a “Click and Save” Party to find holiday discounts on the TEA Web site. CCEA also purchased lanyards for each member with the association logo emblazoned on the side. Pictured, left to right: Melissa Durard, Susan Milburn and Jenny Lockerman with their school’s lanyards. National History Teacher of the Year Award Nominations Sought Do you know an outstanding K-6 teacher passionate about American history? All social studies and elementary educators who teach American History are welcome. The National History Teacher of the Year Award offers $10,000 to the best American history teacher. The national winner is chosen from outstanding teachers in each state, district and U.S. territory. State winners receive $1,000 in addition to an archive of books and other resources for their school. Sponsored by the Gilder Lehrman Institute, Preserve America and The History Channel, the award program will accept nominations made by a student, parent, colleague, supervisor or other education professional familiar with the teacher’s work. Visit http://www.gilderlehrman. org/nhtoy to nominate a teacher and learn more about the award. TEA salutes 35 members who became new National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) in 2010. A total of 69 Tennessee teachers earned NBCT status this year, bringing the total of NBCTs in Tennessee to 483. Congratulations to the 2010 class of National Board Certified Teachers and thank you for your TEA membership: Lisa Bailey (Memphis City), Leah Bishop (Franklin Special School District), Karen Boles (Metro Nashville Public Schools), Katrina Brown (Memphis City), Kimberly Buford (Memphis City), Terrence Cain (Memphis City), Patrice Campbell (Memphis City), Carol Cortez (Williamson County), Allison Dudney (Putnam County), Jeffrey Freiden (Memphis City), Kim Halyak (Memphis City), Michelle Hatfield (Memphis City), Jennifer Havens (Williamson County), Melissa Heim (Memphis City), Allison King-Vester (Memphis City), Stacy Klein (Metro Nashville), Cynthia May (Franklin Special), Tiffany McCall (Memphis City), Katherine McCormack (Hamilton County), Krystal McReynolds (Kingsport City), Rena Neal (Memphis City), Brenda Pollock (Metro Nashville), Raquel Ratchford (Memphis City), Elizabeth Renneisen (Hamilton County), Sherri Revord (Memphis City), Angela Robertson (Memphis City), Molly Sehring (Metro Nashville), Elaine Shearin (Memphis City), Karrah Singletary (Hamilton County), Davida Smith-Keita (Memphis City), Ann Taylor (Shelby County), Emily Underwood (Memphis City), Mary Walton (Memphis City), Sandra Watley (Memphis City), and Vernola Williams (Memphis City). Team Work—Shaun Lawson, Hickman Co. EA treasurer and building representative, and Retika Patterson talk with members at the September HCEA meeting (left). Shaun’s wife Jamie (above) also serves as an HCEA building representative. Are you or someone you know wondering how to afford the rising cost of college tuition in these challenging economic times? TEA offers up to eight Don Sahli-Kathy Woodall scholarships of $500 or $1,000 each year for students attending or planning to attend a Tennessee college and major in education. The application process is simple and straightforward, requiring little more than a short essay on why the applicant wants to be a teacher. Scholarship winners are selected on the basis of academic excellence, demonstrated leadership abilities, economic need and—for all but the graduate scholarship—demonstrated interest in becoming a teacher. Scholarships are offered each year in the following categories: Student Tennessee Education Association, Sons and Daughters of a TEA Member, Future Teachers of America, Minority Student, Graduate Student. The application deadline for all scholarships but the Graduate Student scholarship is March 1. The deadline for the Graduate scholarship is June 1. More information about the available scholarships, the legacy of Don Sahli and Kathy Woodall, and application forms for the scholarships are available on the TEA Web site at www.teateachers.org. From the home page, click on Scholarships and Awards. Contributions to the Don Sahli-Kathy Woodall Scholarship Fund of the Tennessee Education Association are invited from TEA members, friends and local affiliates. Every contribution to the fund helps to grow a Tennessee teacher. Speaker Named for 2011 TEA Spring Symposium A former Green Beret will give the keynote address at the 15th Annual Spring Symposium to be held on April 1-2, 2011, at the newly renovated Park Vista hotel in Gatlinburg. Eddie Williams, an Atlanta area speaker and consultant, will talk about leadership, stress management and other topics at the teaching and learning symposium in the Great Smoky Mountains. More details are available on the TEA Web site: www.teateachers.org. 4 January 2011 5 www.teateachers.org fyi ‘Show Me the Money’ Map A 6 6January 2011 s we flip the calendar, it’s good to take stock of what we have and what’s ahead of us in the new year. Tennessee’s teachers have not had a state salary increase since 2007-08, but many associations bargained or received salary increases at the local level. As best seen on the map, associations with the most recent salary increases tend to cluster together, as do those with no salary increase since 2004-05. Often, the incentive for a pay increase in one school system is inspired by the bargaining efforts of a local association in a neighboring system. The TEA research staff has listed school systems with the most recent local salary increase as well as those that bargained or received local increases for three consecutive years — our honor roll. For members in 22 out of 136 Tennessee school systems (or 16.18 percent), the last local salary increase was prior to 200405. Only 14 out of 136 school systems (or 10.29 percent) have received local increases each of the last three years. The average increase for those systems was 1.31 percent in 2009-10, 1.32 percent in 2008-09 and 4.13 percent in 2007-08 (year of the 3-percent state increase). Also worthy of note, Overton Co. made progress in payment toward health insurance over the five-year period since 2004-05 in lieu of providing salary increases. As helpful as the local salary increases may seem, it’s important to remember that state insurance premiums have risen more than 30 percent between 2004 and 2010. Indeed, as we emerge from the holiday season thankful for what we have, it’s easy to realize that there is plenty for which to bargain in the coming year. Tennessee School Systems With Year of Last Local Salary Increase Alamo City Alcoa City Anderson Co. Athens City Bedford Co. Bells City Benton Co. Bledsoe Co. Blount Co. Bradford SSD Bradley Co. Bristol City Campbell Co. Cannon Co. Carroll Co. Carter Co. Cheatham Co. Chester Co. Claiborne Co. Clay Co. Cleveland City Clinton City Cocke Co. Coffee Co. Crockett Co. 2008-09 2006-07 2008-09 2008-09 2008-09 2008-09 2008-09 Pre 2004-05 2008-09 Pre 2004-05 2009-10 2008-09 2008-09 2007-08 Pre 2004-05 2007-08 2007-08 2006-07 2004-05 Pre 2004-05 2008-09 2008-09 2008-09 2007-08 2008-09 Cumberland Co. 2005-06 Davidson Co. 2004-05 Dayton City 2008-09 Decatur Co. 2009-10 DeKalb Co. 2007-08 Dickson Co. 2008-09 Dyer Co. 2008-09 Dyersburg City 2008-09 Elizabethton City 2007-08 Etowah City 2009-10 Fayette Co. 2008-09 Fayetteville City 2009-10 Fentress Co. Pre 2004-05 Franklin Co. 2008-09 Franklin SSD 2008-09 Gibson SSD 2008-09 Giles Co. 2006-07 Grainger Co. 2009-10 Greene Co. 2007-08 Greeneville City 2007-08 Grundy Co. Pre 2004-05 Hamblen Co. 2009-10 Hamilton Co. 2008-09 Hancock Co. Pre 2004-05 Hardeman Co. Pre 2004-05 Hardin Co. 2009-10 Hawkins Co. 2007-08 Haywood Co. 2007-08 Henderson Co. 2010-11 Henry Co. 2009-10 Hickman Co. Pre 2004-05 Houston Co. 2007-08 H-Rock-Bruceton SSD 2004-05 Humboldt City 2008-09 Humphreys Co. 2009-10 Huntingdon SSD 2008-09 Jackson Co. Pre 2004-05 Jefferson Co. 2008-09 Johnson City 2008-09 Johnson Co. Pre 2004-05 Kingsport City 2008-09 Knox Co. 2008-09 Lake Co. 2008-09 Lauderdale Co. 2008-09 Lawrence Co. 2007-08 Lebanon SSD 2009-10 Lenoir City 2009-10 Lewis Co. Pre 2004-05 Lexington City 2007-08 Lincoln Co. 2009-10 Loudon Co. 2010-11 Macon Co. 2008-09 Madison Co. 2008-09 Manchester City 2009-10 Marion Co. 2009-10 Marshall Co. 2008-09 Maryville City 2008-09 Maury Co. 2008-09 McKenzie SSD 2008-09 McMinn Co. 2008-09 McNairy Co. 2007-08 Meigs Co. 2007-08 Memphis City 2009-10 Milan SSD 2007-08 Monroe Co. Pre 2004-05 Montgomery Co. 2009-10 Moore Co. 2009-10 Morgan Co. 2007-08 Murfreesboro City 2008-09 Newport City 2007-08 Oak Ridge 2009-10 Obion Co. 2009-10 Oneida SSD Pre 2004-05 Overton Co. Pre 2004-05 Paris SSD 2009-10 Perry Co. Pre 2004-05 Pickett Co. Pre 2004-05 Polk Co. 2007-08 Putnam Co. 2008-09 Rhea Co. 2009-10 Richard City Pre 2004-05 Roane Co. 2009-10 Robertson Co. 2008-09 Rogersville City 2008-09 Rutherford Co. 2008-09 Scott Co. 2007-08 Sequatchie Co. 2008-09 Sevier Co. 2008-09 Shelby Co. 2008-09 Smith Co. Pre 2004-05 South Carroll SSD 2009-10 Stewart Co. 2008-09 Sullivan Co. 2008-09 Sumner Co. 2008-09 Sweetwater City 2006-07 Tipton Co. 2007-08 Trenton SSD 2008-09 Trousdale Co. 2009-10 Tullahoma City 2008-09 Unicoi Co. 2008-09 Union City 2007-08 Union Co. Pre 2004-05 Van Buren Co. Pre 2004-05 Warren Co. 2009-10 Washington Co. 2007-08 Wayne Co. 2009-10 Weakley Co. 2007-08 West Carroll SSD Pre 2004-05 White Co. 2007-08 Williamson Co. 2008-09 Wilson Co. 2006-07 HONOR ROLL School Systems With Local Salary Increases Each of the Last Three Years (2007 thru 10) Bradley Co. Etowah City Fayetteville City Hardin Co. Henry Co. Lebanon SSD Lenoir City Marion Co. Memphis City Obion Co. Paris SSD Roane Co. Trousdale Co. Warren Co. 7 www.teateachers.org www.teateachers.org 7 New Governor and Legislature Bring New Challenges, Opportunities T he 107th General Assembly will convene on Tuesday, January 11. On January 15, Governor-elect Bill Haslam will be sworn in to lead Tennessee for the next four years. The November election means that the General Assembly will have a new majority, bringing about new leadership and revamped committees. TEA expects a number of challenges which will – more than ever – require your active engagement in the legislative process. While Tennessee’s economy is slowly recovering, the state budget is still going to dominate a lot of the discussion. With education a major topic in legislatures across the country, we fully expect to see many “reform” proposals – some good, some bad – introduced this session. TEA will do everything possible to keep you informed. In addition to the weekly TEA Legislative Report, which will begin around the first of February, special legislative updates are sent electronically to the GREAT (Grass Roots Education Action) Team. To sign up for this service available only to TEA members, send an e-mail to GREATTeam@ tea.nea.org. Remember that new challenges can mean new opportunities, but we cannot afford to sit on the sidelines when decisions affecting our professional and personal lives are being made at the State Capitol. Over the next several months, Tennessee’s teachers must stay informed and involved—our future depends on it. TSW Grant Winners Announced TEA and its Tennessee Space Week consortium partners awarded $3,492.06 to Tennessee Space Week grant winners across the state. TSW week is celebrated January 23-29, 2011. Congratulations to Memphis EA member Christina Clapsadle (White Station Middle School), Smith Co. EA member Cathy Dringenburg (Gordonsville Elementary School), Hawkins Co. EA member Crissy Cade (Carter’s Valley Elementary), and Giles Co. EA member Missy Locke (Richland Elementary School). TSW is a statewide project designed to increase student interest and performance in science and mathematics through a focus on aerospace programs and accomplishments. Activities are co-sponsored by TEA, the Tennessee Space Grant Consortium and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). TEA Calendar of Events February-March 2011 Professional Development February February 15 Black History Month Deadline for receiving nominations for Distinguished Educator Awards February 15 Deadline for receiving nominations for Friend of Education Awards February 15 Deadline for receiving nominations for TEA Human Relations Awards February 15 Deadline for School Bell Awards entries February 17-18 Administrator Task Force Conference February 21 President’s Day February 26 New Teacher Conference, TEA Building March 1 March 2 March 4-5 March 21 March 24-25 March 25-26 March 25-26 Deadline for submitting nominations for Don Sahli-Kathy Woodall Scholarships (STEA, FTA, Minority and Sons & Daughters) Read Across America TEA Board of Directors, TEA Building Deadline for submitting TEA Constitution and Bylaws amendment proposals and nominations, as well as biographical information for candidates for TEA offices FTA Convention, Nashville STEA Convention, Nashville Minority Affairs Conference, Chattanooga The Quality Schools Summit “Commanding the Data and Evaluation Process” February 17-18, 2011 Featured Speakers: Dr. Gary Nixon, Executive Director, State Board of Education Patrick Smith, Executive Director, First to the Top Dr. Joey Hassell, Director of Schools, Lauderdale County Dr. Sharon Roberts, Director of Schools, Lebanon Special School District Dr. Jennifer Butterworth Make plans now to attend by registering online at www.teateachers.org or completing the registration form included in your January brochure. The Summit will be held at the Tennessee Education Association Headquarters, 801 2nd Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37201. For additional information, e-mail crichardson@tea.nea.org or call 615-242-8392, ext. 233 TASL Credit Approved Teachers, Librarians Invited to South Africa All Smiles—’Adding value to your TEA membership through NEA Member Benefits’ was the theme of a recent Marion County EA meeting in November. MCEA President Bobby McCulley, MCEA Association Representative Jamie McCulley and MCEA member Renee Looney are all smiles after learning more about savings and discounts. Bobby teaches 5th grade, Jamie teaches 8th grade math and Renee teaches 3rd grade at Jasper Middle School. Renee was dressed in Pilgrim attire as her students took part in Thanksgiving activities. MCEA - working together to benefit all members. The Institute of International Education invites teachers to participate in its inaugural Toyota International Teacher Program to South Africa. The program will take place between July 24 and August 10, 2011. Full-time classroom teachers of all subjects and librarians, grades 7 – 12, are invited to apply online. The Toyota International Teacher Program is a fully-funded international professional development program for U.S. educators. Funded by Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. and administered by the Institute of International Education, the program advances environmental stewardship and global connectedness in U.S. schools and communities. The deadline to apply is January 23, 2011. The inaugural Toyota International Teacher Program to South Africa will provide teachers firsthand exposure to the social and environmental complexity of South Africa, focusing on sustainable development and emphasizing the links between history, culture, power, and the environment. Teachers will explore the country’s natural and cultural diversity through a range of site visits and hands-on activities. The Toyota International Teacher Program greatly values diversity and encourages educators of all backgrounds, subjects and school types to apply for this professional development opportunity. Please visit www.iie.org/toyota for application instructions. 8 January 2011 9 www.teateachers.org H er face is alive with enthusiasm and excitement. “Ni hao! Hello – how are you, boys and girls?” Chinese teacher Hui Li welcomes another eager class of elementary school students into her classroom at Discovery School at Reeves Rogers in Murfreesboro. The students scan the colorful room and smile back at Li. Another fast-paced Chinese class is about to begin. Li arrived at Discovery School in August 2010 for a oneyear term as part of the Teachers of Critical Languages Program, a partnership between the U.S. Department of State and other foreign governments. The purpose of TCLP is to foster understanding between the United States and the world and to expose Americans to the languages strategic to our training, followed by additional instruction in Philadelphia for Jones. Li said the first couple of weeks in America were a bit difficult for her. Homesickness was part of the problem, but she said she managed to conquer it and began to explore American daily life. It helps that teachers and parents continue to invite her to various events, which range from dinners in Murfreesboro to traveling to Florida on a family vacation. By accepting as many invitations as possible, Li said she gets to see different sides of American culture. Li begins her typical day by teaching K-6 classes at Discovery School. Both students and parents report that her classes are always upbeat and exciting. “I marvel at how the Tip of the Month Use reader’s theater to bring your books to life. Ask students to stage their own dramatic readings of their favorite stories. Link of the Month Ready to look inside the mind of your favorite authors? Check out the author interviews compiled by Reading Rockets. You’ll find many of your favorites. Go to www.readingrockets.org. rg.. Activity of the Month If your class is ready for its 15 minutes of fame, me, why not create a video for the Read Across America Channel on Schooltube? Go to www.schooltube.com to view past videos or create your own. ‘Ni Hao to Hui Li!’ FEBRUARY DATES ` February 3 Chinese New Year Murfreesboro EA Member Helps Bring a Teacher from China to Tennessee national welfare—the “critical languages.” Hailing from Changchun, where she is a junior high school teacher, Li teaches Murfreesboro students the intricacies of the Chinese language, culture, tai chi and all manner of things related to China. “This is a fantastic opportunity,” said Dr. Linda Clark, Discovery School principal. “Our school is for high achieving children, so this is a logical place for such a program. Our faculty is Murfreesboro EA member Cynthia Jones and Chinese teacher Hui Li set up open to innovation and a live video conference between Discovery School at Reeves Rogers and a creativity, and having school in Beijing. Li came to Discovery School for one year as part of a U.S. Mrs. Li is a natural fit Department of State grant. for us.” Longtime Murfreesboro EA member Cynthia Jones is Li’s mentor teacher and the main author of the grant which brought Li to Tennessee. Jones, who teaches fifth grade, and colleague Kristy Mall began the grant process a couple of years ago, armed with support of their principal. Together they outlined the grant application, formed an advisory board, took Asian studies classes and immersed themselves in Chinese culture. Parent Susan Lyons volunteered to be the cultural mentor for Li, helping her navigate and get accustomed to the American way of life. Li currently stays with the Lyons family, much to the delight of their young adopted Chinese daughter, Lily Grace. Li underwent an extensive screening before she was accepted into the program. She then went through rigorous training in China and Washington, where she learned about American public education, culture, language and values. Jones and Clark also traveled to Washington for a weekend 10 January 2011 children learn so quickly,” Li said. “They are so smart! And everyone has been wonderful to me, so nice and welcoming.” At Discovery School, Li employs small group instruction, technology, lots of hands-on activities and other strategies not regularly used in China. “In China, I only teach a few classes of about 40-60 children,” she said in perfect English. “The rest of the day is for planning and grading papers. American teachers work very, very hard, much harder than Chinese teachers.” Shea Payne, a fourth grade teacher, said she has a hard time imagining how Li is coping with being so far away from home. “I cannot imagine leaving my country and my family for a new job, using a second language, at a new school, in a new country, for a whole year. I admire her courage and independence. We are learning so much and our kids are being exposed to a world outside Tennessee. They are becoming global learners.” Said Jones: “Hui is a master teacher; my mentoring job is easy.” Jones added that TCLP would be a great fit for other schools in Tennessee. The program offers grants to schools for one year, covering all expenses, including the visiting teacher’s salary. TCLP even provides money for setting up a classroom. “When talking to the Board of Education and our new director, Dr. Linda Gilbert, about the TCLP grant, a strong point was that the teacher would be provided totally free of charge,” Jones said. “In a time of economic hardship, this was a strong selling point.” Li, Jones and Mall also host an after-school Chinese Club and are actively speaking to the Murfreesboro community through television interviews and other outreach activities. “I am so impressed with Hui,” Jones said. “She has adapted and worked hard, as have we, to make this arrangement work. Hui is an intelligent and beautiful person.” The trio has started a series of live video conferences with an elementary school in Beijing, China. Their first conference in November had Discovery School students and children in Beijing sharing information about their fall activities. “This is American education at its best,” said one of many parents who attended the evening Skype session. “I am amazed and pleased that my child could profit from the hard work of so many people.” Bird, written by Zetta Elliott and illustrated by Shadra Strickland, offers a poignant look inside the mind of a young artist as he struggles to understand his life’s ups and downs. ` February 6–7 African American Read-In ` February 14 Valentine’s Day ` February 21 Presidents Day www.nea.org/readacross Published in 2002 by Lee and Low. www. leeandlowbooks.com. Artwork used with permission. BLACK BL L HISTORY MONTH February Sunday Monday Tuesday 1 2011 Wednesday Thursday Groundhog Day Chinese New Year 2 Friday 3 Saturday 4 Lincoln’s Birthday African American Read-In 6 5 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 16 17 18 19 23 24 25 26 Valentine’s Day 13 Presidents Day Washington’s Birthday 20 21 27 28 22 NEA’S READ ACROSS AMERICA|Building 11 a Nation of Readers|www.nea.org/readacross www.teateachers.org TEA to Host Legislative, Evaluation Updates Eight Regional Sessions Planned Across the State TEA will again conduct a series of regional information sessions across the state in January and February, 2011, to keep you informed about important issues and potential challenges facing public education in Tennessee. Two important topics that will be discussed at each regional meeting are: • Potential 2011 legislative issues; • An update on the changes in the evaluation process. All TEA members are invited to attend the 2011 Regional Legislative Information and Evaluation Update Sessions. General Legislative Overview and Evaluation Updates will be presented between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. A question and answer session will follow between 6:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The sessions will include a Legislative Contact Team information update and talking points for LCT members. The Tennessee Education Association is the voice of Tennessee’s teachers. As we prepare to address the challenges of 2011, we invite you to make plans now to hear the facts and allow your voice to be heard. Each TEA member is invited to attend the regional information session nearest you. The mission of the Tennessee Education Association (TEA) is to promote, advance and protect public education, the education profession, and the rights and interests of our members. Regional Meeting Dates, Locations and Times January 18, Tuesday * Nashville 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. – 2011 Legislative Kick-Off Information Session, TEA Building Auditorium A, 801 2nd Ave. North, Nashville, TN 37201. January 20, Thursday * Jackson 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. – 2011 Legislative Kick-Off Information Session Jackson, Liberty High School Cafeteria, 3470 Ridgecrest Road Ext. Jackson, TN. January 25, Tuesday * Shelbyville 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. – 2011 Legislative Kick-Off Information Session, Harris Middle School Library in Shelbyville, 400 Elm Street Shelbyville, TN. January 27, Thursday * Knoxville 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. – 2011 Legislative Kick-Off Information Session at an area school in Knoxville (Location to be announced on TEA Web site). February 3, Thursday * Memphis 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. - 2011 Legislative Kick-Off Information Session, MEA Office, 126 South Flicker Street, Memphis, TN. February 8 Tuesday * Blountville 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. – 2011 Legislative Kick-Off Information Session, Sullivan Central High School Little Theater, 131 Shipley Ferry Rd., Blountville, TN February 10, Thursday * Chattanooga 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. – 2011 Legislative Kick-Off Information Session. HCEA Office, 4655 Shallowford Rd, Chattanooga, TN. February 17, Thursday * Cookeville 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. - 2011 Legislative Kick-Off Information Session, Cookeville High School Lecture Hall, first floor, 2335 N Washington Ave., Cookeville, TN. The Johnella Martin / TEA Statewide Minority Affairs Conference March 25 - 26, 2011 DoubleTree Hotel, Chattanooga Need information, services? Mitchell Johnson Assistant Executive Director for Affiliate Services Ronny Clemmons & Donna Cotner Managers of UniServ Tennessee Education Association, 801 Second Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37201-1099 (615) 242-8392, (800) 342-8367, FAX (615) 259-4581 UniServ Coordinators District 1 — Harry Farthing, P.O. Box 298, Elizabethton, TN 37644; phone: (423)262-8035, fax: (423)262-8053; Assns: Carter, Johnson, Sullivan, Bristol, Kingsport, Northeast State C.C. District 2 — Jennifer Gaby, P.O. Box 70, Afton, TN 37616; (423)234-0700, fax: (423)234-0708; Assns: Greene, Greeneville, Unicoi, Washington, Elizabethton, Johnson City, ETSU. District 3 — Mike Lee, 1607 Solod Drive, Morristown, TN 37814; (423)587-8001, fax: (423)5878550; Assns: Cocke, Newport, Hancock, Hamblen, Hawkins, Rogersville, Walter State C.C. District 4 — Tina Parlier, P.O. Box 74, Corryton, TN 37721; (865)688-1175, fax: (865)688-5188; Assns: Claiborne, Grainger, Jefferson, Union. District 5— Jim Petrie, Knox County Education Association, 2411 Magnolia Ave., Knoxville, TN 379178289; (865)522-9793, fax: (865)522-9866; Assns: Knox, UT-Knoxville, Pellisippi State C.C. District 6 — Reba Luttrell, 503 Cardinal St., Maryville, TN 37803; phone/fax: (865)983-8640; Assns: Blount, Alcoa, Maryville, Monroe, Sweetwater, Loudon, Lenoir City District 7 — Donna Jerden, P.O. Box 222, Wartburg, TN 37887-0222; phone/ fax: (423) 346-6165; Assns: Anderson, Clinton, Oak Ridge, Campbell, Morgan, Scott, Oneida, TSD District 8 — Jim Jordan, P.O. Box 4878, Cleveland, TN 37320; phone/fax: (423)472-3315; Assns: Bradley, Cleveland, McMinn, Athens, Etowah, Meigs, Polk, Rhea-Dayton, Cleveland State C.C. District 9 — Dannise McKinney, P.O. Box 117, Kingston, TN 37763; phone/fax: (865)882-8211; Assns: Bledsoe, Cumberland, Fentress, York Institute, Roane, Sequatchie, White, Van Buren, Roane State C.C. District 10 — Rhonda Catanzaro, Hamilton County Education Association, 4655 Shallowford Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37411; (423)485-9535, fax: (423)485-9512; Assns: Hamilton County, Chattanooga State C.C., UT-Chattanooga District 11 — Emily Watson, 207 Country Estates Drive, Winchester, TN 37398; phone/fax: (931)967-0175; Assns: Coffee, Manchester, Tullahoma, Franklin, Grundy, Marion, Warren District 12 — Shannon Bain, 1001 Rhett Place, Lebanon, TN 37087; phone: (615)547-7769, fax: (615)547-7879; Assns: Clay, DeKalb, Jackson, Macon, Overton, Pickett, Putnam, Smith, Trousdale, TTU District 13 — Arthur Patterson, 101 Copperas Court, Murfreesboro, TN 37128; phone: (615)907-9912, fax: (615) 907-5490; Assns: Cannon, Wilson, Lebanon S.S.D., Volunteer State C.C. District 14 — Susan Young, P.O. Box 422, Madison, TN 37116-0422; phone/fax: (615)865-9700; Assns: Cheatham, Murfreesboro, MTSU, Rutherford, TSB, TN Department of Education District 15 — Miley Durham, P.O. Box 10, Lawrenceburg, TN 38464; phone/fax: (931)766-7874; Assns: Bedford, Giles, Lawrence, Lincoln, Fayetteville, Marshall, Moore, Motlow State C.C. District 16 — Alice Spicer, 106 Stillwater Trail, Hendersonville, TN 37075; (615)826-1394, fax: (615)8264589; Assns: Clarksville-Montgomery, Robertson, APSU District 17 — Forestine Cole, Ralph Smith, Theresa Turner, Metro Nashville, 531 Fairground Court, Nashville, TN 37211; (615)726-1499, fax: (615)726-2501; Assns: Metro Nashville, Nashville State C.C., TSU, Department of Higher Education District 18 — Jackie Pope, 2326 Valley Grove Dr., Murfreesboro, TN 37128; (615) 898-1060, fax: (615) 898-1099; Assns: Lewis, Maury, Williamson, Franklin S.S.D., Columbia State C.C. District 19— Melinda Webb, 56 Lakeview Cove, Linden, TN 37096; (931)593-3532, fax: (931)593-3543; Assns: Decatur, Dickson, Hardin, Hickman, Houston, Humphreys, Perry, Wayne District 20 — Maria Uffelman, P.O. Box 99, Cumberland City, TN 37050; phone/ fax: (931)827-3333; Assns: Benton, Carroll (West Carroll) Central, Clarksburg, Huntingdon, McKenzie, Gibson, Bradford, Humboldt, Milan, Henry, Paris, Stewart, Weakley, UT-Martin, FTA District 21 — Lorrie Butler, P.O. Box 387, Henderson, TN 38340; (731)989-4860, fax: (731)989-9254; Assns: Chester, Hardeman, Henderson, Lexington, Jackson-Madison, McNairy, Jackson State C.C. District 22 — Karla Carpenter, P.O. Box 177, Brunswick, TN 38014; (901)590-2543, fax: (901)382-1433; Assns: Crockett, Dyer, Dyersburg, Haywood, Lake, Lauderdale, Obion, Union City, Tipton, Dyersburg State C.C. District 23 — Zandra Foster, 3897 Homewood Cove, Memphis, TN 38128; phone/fax: (901)377-9472; Assns: Fayette, Shelby, Univ. of Memphis, Southwest Tenn. C.C., University of Memphis. Priority Local Team Field Organizers — Jeff Garrett, Cheryl Richardson, Rhonda Thompson, 801 Second Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37201; (615)242-8392 or (800)342-8367 Assns: Sevier, Sumner, Trenton. MEA — Ken Foster, Executive Director; Susanne Jackson, Terri Jones, Tom Marchand, Herman Sawyer and Marilyn Webley, MEA, 126 South Flicker Street, Memphis, TN 38104; (901)454-0966, fax: (901)454-9979; Assn: Memphis. www.teateachers.org Preparing For Visit www.teateachers.org to register by March 11, 2011 www.nea.org 12 January 2011