Walk for Colleen Bliss! She is a retired Jordan/Canyons teacher who was a career-long UEA member. She is the recommended candidate against Dan McCay in the Riverton/Bluffdale area. See below for her scheduled campaign walk times for this week.
Tuesday, Oct. 28 Colleen's House 1945 Rock Hollow Road, Bluffdale
Rock Hollow is approximately 14900 So. Redwood Road 5:00pm
Wednesday, Oct. 29 Rosamond Elementary parking lot
1219 South 1975 West 4:30pm
Thursday, Oct. 30 Rosamond Elementary parking lot 4:30pm
Saturday, Nov. 1 Jordan River Parkway Trailhead (Draper Rotary Park) 12300 South 1100 West 10 am
Showing posts with label Elections. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Elections. Show all posts
Monday, October 27, 2014
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
Final Colleen Bliss Blitz!
See the information below about a final walk for Colleen Bliss in Riverton!
Dear Friends, Teachers, and generous Volunteers,
Dear Friends, Teachers, and generous Volunteers,
We are in the final stretches. Please join me on Saturday October 18th for
the final Bliss Blitz. We will walk, knock on doors, talk to good folks and hand
out literature and lawn signs in the Riverton/Bluffdale area.
Time: 9:30am
Place: Jordan River Rotary Park: 12300 South and the Jordan River
(North of road, east side of river (
12300
S 973 W
Riverton, UT)
You will receive:
- Free t-shirt - until we run out! (If you already have one, please wear it)
- Precinct Map (Please mark where you have been and return it to me)
- Script - for those who have not walked before
- Literature and lawn signs to distribute
- Bring water and a friend!
Thanks! Colleen
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
PTA Meet the Candidates Night
The PTA is sponsoring a Meet the Candidates Night for all candidates representing areas in Jordan District. Be an informed voter and attend.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Year Round PTC and Caucus Meeting Conflict
I know that C and D Track Parent Teacher Conferences conflict with the Republican Caucus meetings this week. We have never had this problem before, so I looked into why the problem happened this year.
In 2010 and prior caucus years, which is every even year, both the Democrats and Republicans held their caucus meetings on the same night, Tuesday. Due to changes in the Utah Republican Party timelines, the Republican Party chose to move their caucus meeting to Thursday, so they meet after the candidate filing deadline, which is Thursday at 5:00.
2012 was the first time the two parties met on different nights. That year, C and D Parent Teacher Conferences were held March 7-9, so there was no conflict. This is the first year the conflict has occurred. Now the Year Round Committee can be aware of this conflict and plan Parent Teacher Conference dates for weeks other than the third week of March when the caucus meetings are scheduled.
In 2010 and prior caucus years, which is every even year, both the Democrats and Republicans held their caucus meetings on the same night, Tuesday. Due to changes in the Utah Republican Party timelines, the Republican Party chose to move their caucus meeting to Thursday, so they meet after the candidate filing deadline, which is Thursday at 5:00.
2012 was the first time the two parties met on different nights. That year, C and D Parent Teacher Conferences were held March 7-9, so there was no conflict. This is the first year the conflict has occurred. Now the Year Round Committee can be aware of this conflict and plan Parent Teacher Conference dates for weeks other than the third week of March when the caucus meetings are scheduled.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Council of Local Presidents
We had a presentation on UEN and the services they provide. You can follow them in several places. UEN website, UEN Channel on YouTube, UEN Professional Development on Twitter, UEN Professional Development Facebook Page, and through twice weekly (Monday and Thursday) text updates by texting UEN to 91011 to subscribe.
New UEA Membership cards are being mailed to your homes on Monday, November 19. Please watch for your card within the next week. When you login at myUEA.org to activate your card, you will be asked to create a password for your account. The new Access discounts website will be easier to search. You will be able to purchase some items from that website and have them sent directly to you.
UEA is looking for additional minorities to run for NEA-RA Delegate-At-Large and NEA-RA Successor Delegate-At-Large. Both are three year terms where you attend the NEA Representative Assembly for three years from approximately June 28 to July 6. The next 3 NEA-RA's will be held in Atlanta (2013), Denver (2014) and Miami Beach (2015). All expenses are paid for you to attend and represent Utah at the annual business meeting to direct NEA. Please let me know if you are minority and interested in running, and I will assist you with filing a declaration of candidacy. The deadline is Thursday, January 10, 2013.
Senate Bill 64 evaluation pilot is happening this year in a handful of schools. The initial version of the bill outlined in this post ended in the much improved SB 64, which was supported and collaborated on by UEA.
Only 30% of subjects/grades in Utah are tested. Difficult to measure student growth for evaluation purpose. Student Learning Objectives (SLO) are going to be used to look at growth in non-tested subjects/grades, and possibly some that are tested would be optional. Looking at teachers setting goals/learning objectives with administrators that shows learning outcomes by students. Many teachers do this in an informal way already. You would do this for a limited number of students (2-4). Tested subjects/grades are going to use Student Growth Percentiles (SGP) in relationship to their academic peers. SGP's would look at what we expect a student to do when compared to other students like them. Even in tested subjects, teachers may want to use SLO's, because it gives an additional line of evidence in a teacher evaluation. This is scheduled to be implemented in the 2014-2015 year.
In 2008, 47 members voted by mail. In 2012, 2214 members voted by mail. This is a great success! It helps people who often haven't voted regularly in the past. Please be prepared this coming legislative session to contact your representatives to tell your stories. Public education is not a partisan issue. We build relationships with those who were elected no matter the party to do what is best for public education. Statewide, we were able to move the majority of elected officials more to the center.
New UEA Membership cards are being mailed to your homes on Monday, November 19. Please watch for your card within the next week. When you login at myUEA.org to activate your card, you will be asked to create a password for your account. The new Access discounts website will be easier to search. You will be able to purchase some items from that website and have them sent directly to you.
UEA is looking for additional minorities to run for NEA-RA Delegate-At-Large and NEA-RA Successor Delegate-At-Large. Both are three year terms where you attend the NEA Representative Assembly for three years from approximately June 28 to July 6. The next 3 NEA-RA's will be held in Atlanta (2013), Denver (2014) and Miami Beach (2015). All expenses are paid for you to attend and represent Utah at the annual business meeting to direct NEA. Please let me know if you are minority and interested in running, and I will assist you with filing a declaration of candidacy. The deadline is Thursday, January 10, 2013.
Senate Bill 64 evaluation pilot is happening this year in a handful of schools. The initial version of the bill outlined in this post ended in the much improved SB 64, which was supported and collaborated on by UEA.
Only 30% of subjects/grades in Utah are tested. Difficult to measure student growth for evaluation purpose. Student Learning Objectives (SLO) are going to be used to look at growth in non-tested subjects/grades, and possibly some that are tested would be optional. Looking at teachers setting goals/learning objectives with administrators that shows learning outcomes by students. Many teachers do this in an informal way already. You would do this for a limited number of students (2-4). Tested subjects/grades are going to use Student Growth Percentiles (SGP) in relationship to their academic peers. SGP's would look at what we expect a student to do when compared to other students like them. Even in tested subjects, teachers may want to use SLO's, because it gives an additional line of evidence in a teacher evaluation. This is scheduled to be implemented in the 2014-2015 year.
In 2008, 47 members voted by mail. In 2012, 2214 members voted by mail. This is a great success! It helps people who often haven't voted regularly in the past. Please be prepared this coming legislative session to contact your representatives to tell your stories. Public education is not a partisan issue. We build relationships with those who were elected no matter the party to do what is best for public education. Statewide, we were able to move the majority of elected officials more to the center.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Election Results
I'm sure you are all aware of the results of the headline races like president, governor, and U.S. representatives. In Utah Legislative races in the Jordan District area, the following won:
- Senate District 6: Wayne Harper
- Senate District 10: Aaron Osmond
- House District 42: Jim Bird
- House District 43: Earl Tanner
- House Distict 47: Ken Ivory
- House District 50: Rich Cunningham
- House District 52: John Knotwell
- Precinct 1: J. Lynn Crane
- Precinct 4: Kayleen Whitelock
- Precinct 5: Richard Osborn
- Precinct 6: Janice Voorhies
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Meet the Candidates Follow Up
The PTA Meet the Candidates Night was fairly successful. Most of the JEA recommended candidates were in attendance. I saw several JEA members there and appreciate their efforts to be informed voters.
I spent a bit of time talking to the two candidates for State School Board. One of them encouraged me to go look at his answers to the questionnaires. I am attaching links here to both of their questionnaires. If you live in another school district, you can go to United Way and find your State School Board candidate responses.
For most of Jordan District, the candidates are Jefferson Moss and Sergio Vasquez. Click on their names to read their questionnaires.
I spent a bit of time talking to the two candidates for State School Board. One of them encouraged me to go look at his answers to the questionnaires. I am attaching links here to both of their questionnaires. If you live in another school district, you can go to United Way and find your State School Board candidate responses.
For most of Jordan District, the candidates are Jefferson Moss and Sergio Vasquez. Click on their names to read their questionnaires.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
JEA/UEA/NEA Recommended Candidates
The Political Action Committee at all levels of the Association have made recommendations for the 2012 elections. Please remember that all recommendations are made based on one issue: public education. You have the responsibility to learn about the candidates and the right to vote for the person you feel best represents you. Remember to vote! In the last general election, only 50% of UEA members voted. With 18,000 members, we can cause candidates to win races if we all vote.
NEA
President/Vice President of the United States: Barack Obama/Joe Biden
UEA (to see a full list of recommendations from around the state go to myuea.org PAC page)
US Senate: Scott Howell
US Congressional District 2: Jay Seegmiller
US Congressional District 4: Jim Matheson
Governor/Lt. Governor of Utah: Gary Herbert/Greg Bell
Attorney General of Utah: Dee Smith
JEA
Senate District 6: John Rendell
Senate District 10: Aaron Osmond
House District 42: Jim Bird
House District 43: Jeff Bell
House Distict 47: Joe Huey
House District 50: Billie Gay Larsen
House District 52: Dan Paget
Jordan School Board Precinct 1: J. Lynn Crane
PTA is hosting a Meet the Candidates night on Thursday, October 11 from 6:30 - 8:30 at Elk Ridge Middle. Go to their blog to view the list of candidates planning to attend. Be an informed voter!
NEA
President/Vice President of the United States: Barack Obama/Joe Biden
UEA (to see a full list of recommendations from around the state go to myuea.org PAC page)
US Senate: Scott Howell
US Congressional District 2: Jay Seegmiller
US Congressional District 4: Jim Matheson
Governor/Lt. Governor of Utah: Gary Herbert/Greg Bell
Attorney General of Utah: Dee Smith
JEA
Senate District 6: John Rendell
Senate District 10: Aaron Osmond
House District 42: Jim Bird
House District 43: Jeff Bell
House Distict 47: Joe Huey
House District 50: Billie Gay Larsen
House District 52: Dan Paget
Jordan School Board Precinct 1: J. Lynn Crane
PTA is hosting a Meet the Candidates night on Thursday, October 11 from 6:30 - 8:30 at Elk Ridge Middle. Go to their blog to view the list of candidates planning to attend. Be an informed voter!
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Disappointing Elections
Gary Herbert will continue as Governor. Only one of JEA's recommended candidates won, Jim Bird in West Jordan. In addition, some key education supporters lost their State Legislative seats. It is going to be a very difficult year at the State Legislature come January. Teachers are going to have to fight just to maintain what we receive from the State Legislature.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Comments on Meet the Candidates Night
The following is what Glenda Adams sent me and has given me permission to share about the Meet the Candidates Night at Southland last night.
"I knew it was going to be rough, and it was with [Carl] Wimmer. I gave my two cents. Dave Hogue did a good job. He is speaking for public schools. I didn't know that he substitutes two days a week in our schools. Mostly middle schools. I think someone from District 41 or 47 came and seemed to be buddies with Stephenson's representative. Chad Reyes did very well pointing out the bad moves by Wimmer.
"Then Wimmer gets up and tells everyone that he now knows he made a mistake voting for the district split. He said he is asking for our forgiveness now and has and is going to vote for help for our schools. Chad Reyes pointed out that when Wimmer makes it known that he doesn't want the federal money [from the Education Jobs Fund Program], that this isn't helping our schools. That's when I said, I don't trust him [Carl Wimmer] and because of his vote for the split, our district is going through so many changes and that it is time that we make a change with who represents us. I said, we need to make a change, not having him, as the person who represents us.
"I didn't care for him [Corbin White] . . . and [like him] less now. He just seems flighty. Newman wasn't there, [because] he had his son's football game to go to. A principal, I forgot from what school, was standing by Newman's table, and he told me good things about Newman. I just think Newman should have been there though.
"Later, after several elderly people got up and voiced their unhappiness with Wimmer as well, which I was very happy to see tonight, one got up to ask about money for charter schools. Wimmer offers to get up to answer that there is a waiting list to get into charter schools, and he says that this shows how parents want a better place besides public schools. He goes on about how he believes and will always support a parent's choice and a better place for students other than public schools. That's when I interrupted him to try and say charter schools don't have to go by the rules public schools have to. . . .Someone spoke up to point out that charter schools do not need to go by the same requirements as public. Stephenson's guy wanted to point out that charter schools don't cost the parents anything to attend. Then someone spoke up to [ask] how are they funded, then asked about the difference between vouchers funding that was voted down twice.
"Oh, it was fun all right. This stuff makes me tired. But I'm glad I went and boy I really hope the right people will be voted in. Glenda"
"I knew it was going to be rough, and it was with [Carl] Wimmer. I gave my two cents. Dave Hogue did a good job. He is speaking for public schools. I didn't know that he substitutes two days a week in our schools. Mostly middle schools. I think someone from District 41 or 47 came and seemed to be buddies with Stephenson's representative. Chad Reyes did very well pointing out the bad moves by Wimmer.
"Then Wimmer gets up and tells everyone that he now knows he made a mistake voting for the district split. He said he is asking for our forgiveness now and has and is going to vote for help for our schools. Chad Reyes pointed out that when Wimmer makes it known that he doesn't want the federal money [from the Education Jobs Fund Program], that this isn't helping our schools. That's when I said, I don't trust him [Carl Wimmer] and because of his vote for the split, our district is going through so many changes and that it is time that we make a change with who represents us. I said, we need to make a change, not having him, as the person who represents us.
"I didn't care for him [Corbin White] . . . and [like him] less now. He just seems flighty. Newman wasn't there, [because] he had his son's football game to go to. A principal, I forgot from what school, was standing by Newman's table, and he told me good things about Newman. I just think Newman should have been there though.
"Later, after several elderly people got up and voiced their unhappiness with Wimmer as well, which I was very happy to see tonight, one got up to ask about money for charter schools. Wimmer offers to get up to answer that there is a waiting list to get into charter schools, and he says that this shows how parents want a better place besides public schools. He goes on about how he believes and will always support a parent's choice and a better place for students other than public schools. That's when I interrupted him to try and say charter schools don't have to go by the rules public schools have to. . . .Someone spoke up to point out that charter schools do not need to go by the same requirements as public. Stephenson's guy wanted to point out that charter schools don't cost the parents anything to attend. Then someone spoke up to [ask] how are they funded, then asked about the difference between vouchers funding that was voted down twice.
"Oh, it was fun all right. This stuff makes me tired. But I'm glad I went and boy I really hope the right people will be voted in. Glenda"
Thursday, October 14, 2010
UEA Convention Day 1
The opening session of the UEA Convention had UEA President Sharon Gallagher-Fishbaugh speak followed by Salt Lake Tribune columnist Robert Kirby and musician Kurt Bestor. Music was provided by the Crescent View Middle School Choir under the direction of CEA VP Rick Steadman. The speakers talked about making a difference in the lives of those students who are "borderline" as Kirby stated or are very "colorful" as Bestor said.
I walked through the exhibit hall and stopped at many of the booths. I ran into a lot of old friends who are teaching around the District or in Canyons District. It is always good to catch up with them.
I attended the political portion of the convention. I listened to both gubernatorial candidates speak. Governor Gary Herbert talked about how he and previous governor Jon Huntsman had been able to increase education funding over the last four years. He stated that he went against the legislature to "hold the line" on education funding and "absorb the growth". Go to Gary Herbert to see his views on education.
Mayor Peter Corroon talked about having a 10-year plan for education. He also talked about his 6 R's: Renew commitment to education. Raise standards. Rigor in math and science. Rethink accountability. Return local control. Responsible school funding. He went into detail on each of these items. Go to Vote Corroon for his 36-page plan for education in Utah.
I know that UEA has made a dual recommendation in this race and that Governor Herbert seems to be using that recommendation more openly than Mayor Corroon. As JEA President, I have to be cautious about how I say things. This is my PERSONAL opinion after hearing and meeting the candidates today. I will be supporting Peter Corroon. He is more intelligent, articulate, and personable. He actually has a plan for education. These are the reasons he will receive my vote. I AM NOT speaking for JEA or UEA, just for myself.
I hosted the "Signing in Schools" workshop this afternoon. It was about how to use basic ASL signs to maintain discipline, teach concepts, and assess knowledge. The class was well done.
Michelle Willden, theater teacher at Bingham, receive the Excellence in Education award along with nine other teachers from across the state.
See you tomorrow!
I walked through the exhibit hall and stopped at many of the booths. I ran into a lot of old friends who are teaching around the District or in Canyons District. It is always good to catch up with them.
I attended the political portion of the convention. I listened to both gubernatorial candidates speak. Governor Gary Herbert talked about how he and previous governor Jon Huntsman had been able to increase education funding over the last four years. He stated that he went against the legislature to "hold the line" on education funding and "absorb the growth". Go to Gary Herbert to see his views on education.
Mayor Peter Corroon talked about having a 10-year plan for education. He also talked about his 6 R's: Renew commitment to education. Raise standards. Rigor in math and science. Rethink accountability. Return local control. Responsible school funding. He went into detail on each of these items. Go to Vote Corroon for his 36-page plan for education in Utah.
I know that UEA has made a dual recommendation in this race and that Governor Herbert seems to be using that recommendation more openly than Mayor Corroon. As JEA President, I have to be cautious about how I say things. This is my PERSONAL opinion after hearing and meeting the candidates today. I will be supporting Peter Corroon. He is more intelligent, articulate, and personable. He actually has a plan for education. These are the reasons he will receive my vote. I AM NOT speaking for JEA or UEA, just for myself.
I hosted the "Signing in Schools" workshop this afternoon. It was about how to use basic ASL signs to maintain discipline, teach concepts, and assess knowledge. The class was well done.
See you tomorrow!
Monday, October 11, 2010
Volunteer for Chad Reyes
Chad is running as an independent candidate for House of Representatives in Riverton/Herriman against Carl Wimmer. If you would like to help Chad defeat Carl, volunteer to help on your own schedule.
The following message is from Chad.
"Thanks to everyone's hard work thus far, we've covered a lot of ground; but we still have several precincts left that need our attention. In order to reach out and touch as many voters as possible before November, we've come up with the following plan for volunteers:
"If you're interested, several target-area maps, yard signs, door hangers and names of voters with strong voting histories in those particular areas are available to be picked up at your leisure. Once you're assigned an area, it's up to you to deliver this literature and attempt contact with the voters listed whenever you can, rather than having a set date and time for a group of volunteers.
"We realized most people cannot commit to donating several hours on one particular Saturday, so hopefully this new idea will be more accommodating for all of you whose help is so greatly needed, and so greatly appreciated.
"The remaining areas have been divided into lots with between approximately 80 and 120 homes, with hopes that each volunteer will be able to complete them by Election Day. Our response from the voters we've had the pleasure of contacting so far has been extremely positive, and it seems we've finally picked up some great momentum.
"If you're available to assist with this drive, please contact me directly; either by email, or by phone at (801) 592-3612. All of the packets (maps, scripts, signs and door hangers) are assembled and ready to be picked up whenever you're available.
"Again, thanks again for all your time, energy and support so far; and I'm looking forward to representing all of our best interests next legislative session!
"Respectfully,
Chad Reyes
Candidate, Utah State Legislative Representative
District 52"
The following message is from Chad.
"Thanks to everyone's hard work thus far, we've covered a lot of ground; but we still have several precincts left that need our attention. In order to reach out and touch as many voters as possible before November, we've come up with the following plan for volunteers:
"If you're interested, several target-area maps, yard signs, door hangers and names of voters with strong voting histories in those particular areas are available to be picked up at your leisure. Once you're assigned an area, it's up to you to deliver this literature and attempt contact with the voters listed whenever you can, rather than having a set date and time for a group of volunteers.
"We realized most people cannot commit to donating several hours on one particular Saturday, so hopefully this new idea will be more accommodating for all of you whose help is so greatly needed, and so greatly appreciated.
"The remaining areas have been divided into lots with between approximately 80 and 120 homes, with hopes that each volunteer will be able to complete them by Election Day. Our response from the voters we've had the pleasure of contacting so far has been extremely positive, and it seems we've finally picked up some great momentum.
"If you're available to assist with this drive, please contact me directly; either by email, or by phone at (801) 592-3612. All of the packets (maps, scripts, signs and door hangers) are assembled and ready to be picked up whenever you're available.
"Again, thanks again for all your time, energy and support so far; and I'm looking forward to representing all of our best interests next legislative session!
"Respectfully,
Chad Reyes
Candidate, Utah State Legislative Representative
District 52"
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Meet the Candidates Night
Sponsored by Region 6 PTA on Thursday, October 21 at the following locations:
Oquirrh Elementary: 6:00 - 8:00
Format: Open House 6:00 - 6:30, formal questions & answers 6:30 - 7:00 then from 7:00 - 8:00 open house
School Board candidates Nathan Gedge and Peggy Jo Kennett
Eastlake Elementary: 6:30 - 8:30
Format: Open House
Jordan School Board candidates Susan Pulsipher and Roy Harward
United States House of Representatives District 3 candidate Karen Hyer
Utah Board of Education District 3 candidates Burtis Bills and Craig Coleman
County Council candidate Steven Debry
Utah House of Representatives District 41 candidate John Jackson
Utah House of Representatives District 50 candidates Gary Olsen, Russell Hatch, and Merlynn Newbold
Southland Elementary: 7:00 - 8:00
Format is introduce yourself, then an open house
Jordan School Board candidates Corbin White and Mark Newman
State Senate 11 candidates Dave Hogue and Howard Stephenson, who is sending a representative
House of Representatives District 52 candidates Chad Reyes and Carl Wimmer
Oquirrh Elementary: 6:00 - 8:00
Format: Open House 6:00 - 6:30, formal questions & answers 6:30 - 7:00 then from 7:00 - 8:00 open house
School Board candidates Nathan Gedge and Peggy Jo Kennett
Eastlake Elementary: 6:30 - 8:30
Format: Open House
Jordan School Board candidates Susan Pulsipher and Roy Harward
United States House of Representatives District 3 candidate Karen Hyer
Utah Board of Education District 3 candidates Burtis Bills and Craig Coleman
County Council candidate Steven Debry
Utah House of Representatives District 41 candidate John Jackson
Utah House of Representatives District 50 candidates Gary Olsen, Russell Hatch, and Merlynn Newbold
Southland Elementary: 7:00 - 8:00
Format is introduce yourself, then an open house
Jordan School Board candidates Corbin White and Mark Newman
State Senate 11 candidates Dave Hogue and Howard Stephenson, who is sending a representative
House of Representatives District 52 candidates Chad Reyes and Carl Wimmer
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Do you really want a change?
I have heard from many members and nonmembers alike that they would like to see a change on the School Board, in the State Legislature, and that they are looking forward to a change in Superintendent. Now is the time to act to help that change happen. We must actively support School Board and State Legislative candidates who will be friendly to education in general and to teachers specifically. We must provide input to the current School Board on what qualifications, characteristics, focus, and compensation we would like the new Superintendent to have.
JEA sponsored a walk for three candidates on Saturday. We had a total of six people show up. There were 15 people at the meeting on for input on the new superintendent last night. If you don’t act now, we will have the same problems at the legislative level for two more years and for four years at the local school board level. If you don’t attend a meeting or complete the survey about the new superintendent, we could have a new educational leader whom you do not like.
The next JEA Walk for Candidates is scheduled for Saturday, October 23 in the morning. Put that date on your calendar now. If you cannot come that day, candidates are out campaigning every Saturday. You can contact them directly, or contact us and we will let the campaign know of your desire to help.
JEA Recommended Candidates:
If every member does one thing they have not done before, we can make a huge difference.
JEA sponsored a walk for three candidates on Saturday. We had a total of six people show up. There were 15 people at the meeting on for input on the new superintendent last night. If you don’t act now, we will have the same problems at the legislative level for two more years and for four years at the local school board level. If you don’t attend a meeting or complete the survey about the new superintendent, we could have a new educational leader whom you do not like.
The next JEA Walk for Candidates is scheduled for Saturday, October 23 in the morning. Put that date on your calendar now. If you cannot come that day, candidates are out campaigning every Saturday. You can contact them directly, or contact us and we will let the campaign know of your desire to help.
JEA Recommended Candidates:
- Nathan Gedge in School Board Precinct 3 (Peggy Jo Kennett's seat) Nathan's website
- John Rendell (D) in Legislative House Seat 47 (West Jordan area that used to be Steve Mascaro's seat) John's website
- Chad Reyes (unaffiliated) in Legislative House Seat 52 (Herriman, Carl Wimmer's seat) Chad's website
- Gary Olsen (D) in Legislative House Seat 50 (South Jordan, Merlynn Newbold's seat) Gary's website
- Dave Hogue (D) in Legislative Senate Seat 11 (Riverton/Draper, Howard Stephenson's seat) Dave's website
- Jim Bird (R) in Legislative House Seat 42 (West Jordan, incumbent) Jim's website
If every member does one thing they have not done before, we can make a huge difference.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
JEA Walk for Candidates
If you want to see a change on the School Board and at the State Legislature, we need to work together now for education friendly candidates. We will be walking on Saturday, September 18 in the morning. The schedule is below. If you can come, please e-mail me so we can let the candidates know how many volunteers to expect.
Nathan Gedge (School Board Precinct 7 against Peggy Jo Kennett)
2794 W. 7550 S. 8:30 a.m.
John Rendell (Legislative House Seat 47 against Ken Ivory, Steve Mascaro's old seat)
Midvale Elementary, 362 W. Center Street 9:45 a.m.
Chad Reyes (Legislative House Seat 52 against Carl Wimmer)
Rosalina Park, 13550 S. 5775 W. (Take 13400 S from Bangerter and head west past 5600 W. (Smith’s), turn left on Rosalina 5775 W.) 9:00 a.m.
Nathan Gedge (School Board Precinct 7 against Peggy Jo Kennett)
2794 W. 7550 S. 8:30 a.m.
John Rendell (Legislative House Seat 47 against Ken Ivory, Steve Mascaro's old seat)
Midvale Elementary, 362 W. Center Street 9:45 a.m.
Chad Reyes (Legislative House Seat 52 against Carl Wimmer)
Rosalina Park, 13550 S. 5775 W. (Take 13400 S from Bangerter and head west past 5600 W. (Smith’s), turn left on Rosalina 5775 W.) 9:00 a.m.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
JEA Walk for Candidates
Do you want to see a change in the face of the School Board or the State Legislature? Join other JEA members to walk for our endorsed candidates. Have breakfast and have fun walking to support those who will support us!
We will walk for JEA endorsed candidates on Saturday, September 18 beginning around 9 for two to three hours.
RSVP on the Facebook event at JEA on Facebook.
We will walk for JEA endorsed candidates on Saturday, September 18 beginning around 9 for two to three hours.
RSVP on the Facebook event at JEA on Facebook.
Friday, September 3, 2010
Meetings, Meetings, and More Meetings
Today is a much calmer day. I am catching up, because I didn't have time to answer e-mails yesterday, let alone post to the blog. Here is how Thursday looked.
7:00 a.m. - Attended Jordan Education Foundation Meeting. The Foundation raises money to give grants to individual teachers and scholarships to students. They are considering whole school projects as well. A JEF representative should be contacting principals to ask about wants. Here is a link to the JEF Mini Grant Application.
Superintendent Newbold said the new elementary in West Jordan will open next August. He stated that local principals should work with their PTA and SCC to decide on if/when to broadcast President Obama's speech to school children, scheduled for September 14. An opt-out form must be provided.
Arrived at the JEA office and started to answer e-mail when Cindy Carroll and I went to meet with UEA leaders about the hearing process. We met with UEA President, Sharon Gallagher-Fishbaugh, UEA Executive Director, Mark Mickelsen, UEA Director of Policy & Research, Jay Blain, and UEA Attorney, Mike McCoy. UEA has been involved in knowing what has happened with our negotiations process and is helping us through the hearing, because no other school district has done this before. In addition, Sharon contacted NEA for us to see about financial assistance to pay the hearing officer fees. NEA has agreed to match state and local funds. All levels of the Association have been involved.
11:15 a.m. - The Hearing Officer, Ralph Haws, called and wanted to meet immediately. Cindy and I headed to Riverton High School where our Negotiations Chairperson, Melissa Brown teaches. Luckily, we met on her prep hour to discuss a modified proposed settlement. Worked to contact all Negotiations Team members throughout the afternoon.
1:45 - Back to the office for a monthly meeting with both UniServ Directors and CEA President, Tony Romanello.
3:30 - Out to South Jordan Elementary for a school visit. The teachers there asked good questions, and it was great to meet them.
4:30 - Now to West Jordan High where we held the JEA PAC meeting to discuss candidate recommendations and PAC support. The JEA PAC is recommending:
8:00 p.m. - The Negotiations Team felt the Executive Board needed to know about the latest proposed settlement, but due to personal schedules, we could not meet in person. We were able to have two Executive Board members present, with one on speaker phone. Others were contacted by phone individually, but all Executive Board members were able to hear the proposal, ask questions, and express concerns.
I finally arrived home about 9:30 p.m. It was a long day, a tiring day, but also an exciting day! The work of the Association is important, and I am enjoying it immensely, even though at times, it can be difficult.
7:00 a.m. - Attended Jordan Education Foundation Meeting. The Foundation raises money to give grants to individual teachers and scholarships to students. They are considering whole school projects as well. A JEF representative should be contacting principals to ask about wants. Here is a link to the JEF Mini Grant Application.
Superintendent Newbold said the new elementary in West Jordan will open next August. He stated that local principals should work with their PTA and SCC to decide on if/when to broadcast President Obama's speech to school children, scheduled for September 14. An opt-out form must be provided.
Arrived at the JEA office and started to answer e-mail when Cindy Carroll and I went to meet with UEA leaders about the hearing process. We met with UEA President, Sharon Gallagher-Fishbaugh, UEA Executive Director, Mark Mickelsen, UEA Director of Policy & Research, Jay Blain, and UEA Attorney, Mike McCoy. UEA has been involved in knowing what has happened with our negotiations process and is helping us through the hearing, because no other school district has done this before. In addition, Sharon contacted NEA for us to see about financial assistance to pay the hearing officer fees. NEA has agreed to match state and local funds. All levels of the Association have been involved.
11:15 a.m. - The Hearing Officer, Ralph Haws, called and wanted to meet immediately. Cindy and I headed to Riverton High School where our Negotiations Chairperson, Melissa Brown teaches. Luckily, we met on her prep hour to discuss a modified proposed settlement. Worked to contact all Negotiations Team members throughout the afternoon.
1:45 - Back to the office for a monthly meeting with both UniServ Directors and CEA President, Tony Romanello.
3:30 - Out to South Jordan Elementary for a school visit. The teachers there asked good questions, and it was great to meet them.
4:30 - Now to West Jordan High where we held the JEA PAC meeting to discuss candidate recommendations and PAC support. The JEA PAC is recommending:
- Nathan Gedge in School Board Precinct 7 (Peggy Jo Kennett's seat) Nathan's website
- John Rendell (D) in Legislative House Seat 47 (West Jordan area that used to be Steve Mascaro's seat) John's website
- Chad Reyes (unaffiliated) in Legislative House Seat 52 (Herriman, Carl Wimmer's seat) Chad's website
- Gary Olsen (D) in Legislative House Seat 50 (South Jordan, Merlynn Newbold's seat) Gary's website
- Dave Hogue (D) in Legislative Senate Seat 11 (Riverton/Draper, Howard Stephenson's seat) Dave's website
- Jim Bird (R) in Legislative House Seat 42 (West Jordan, incumbent) Jim's website
8:00 p.m. - The Negotiations Team felt the Executive Board needed to know about the latest proposed settlement, but due to personal schedules, we could not meet in person. We were able to have two Executive Board members present, with one on speaker phone. Others were contacted by phone individually, but all Executive Board members were able to hear the proposal, ask questions, and express concerns.
I finally arrived home about 9:30 p.m. It was a long day, a tiring day, but also an exciting day! The work of the Association is important, and I am enjoying it immensely, even though at times, it can be difficult.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Dual Endorsement in Governor's Race
As you may have seen in both the Salt Lake Tribune and the Deseret News, UEA has endorsed both candidates for Utah Governor. The following is information provided by UEA President Sharon Gallagher-Fishbaugh on the dual endorsement.
Why A Dual Endorsement?
1. Both Mayor Corroon and Governor Herbert have identified public education as a priority in their campaigns. This is a positive for the Utah Education Association.
· Corroon has involved UEA members in a summit designed to create a long-term plan for public education. He also recognizes the necessity of renewing our commitment to adequately fund public schools following the Great Recession. Corroon’s education platform uses pieces of the Association’s TEF message. He has a dynamic Lt. Governor running mate – Sheryl Allen – who knows the issues facing education. He is willing to look at current tax structure issues. He is anti-voucher.
· Herbert placed a UEA representative on his Education Excellence Commission. He successfully argued in favor of ongoing funding, and against further cuts in public education, during the 2010 legislative session. He has committed to seek $101 million in federal funding related to the Jobs Bill. He has offered to help us overcome some of the attacks leveled at the Association. He has told us his door is always open. He is the first governor to have requested a meeting with the UEA Board of Directors.
2. Both Governor Herbert and Mayor Corroon appeared before U-PAC and shared their ideas about education.
· Both candidates asked for and actively sought an endorsement.
3. A majority of U-PAC members voted for a dual endorsement.
· U-PAC members represent every geographic region of the state.
· Prior to a decision, full discussions were held at both the July and August 2010 U-PAC meetings.
· Following the July U-PAC meeting, members were asked to discuss the gubernatorial race in their locals and UniServs. This information was shared and discussed.
· U-PAC voting confirms the democratic nature of the organization.
· Input was solicited from a number of sources.
What About Vouchers?
1. Herbert told the UEA Board and U-PAC he believes the public has spoken and vouchers are dead.
2. While Herbert played a role in the certification of anti-voucher petitions, it was the Utah Legislature that passed the voucher bill.
3. Corroon is against vouchers.
Shouldn’t We Support Only Corroon? He Is Using The Association’s TEF Message?
1. Corroon is using pieces of the TEF message. We are appreciative that he is willing to look at the current tax structure and examine problems associated with the systematic ‘defunding’ of public schools.
2. Both Corroon and Herbert recognize the importance of investing in public schools to grow the economy.
3. The UEA is planning to meet with Governor Herbert to talk about TEF.
Isn’t A Dual Endorsement A “Chicken” Way Out?
1. Quite the contrary. It’s a win-win for candidates and a win-win for members. Both candidates have identified public education as a priority in their campaigns. Both have shown support for Association principles and ideas.
2. By making a dual endorsement, we are saying both candidates have good qualities. We are giving our members a chance to weigh the pros and cons of each candidate and decide for themselves who will best serve the needs of students and educators throughout the state.
3. We will provide a side-by-side comparison of the candidates for our members, and include the Association’s positions on various critical education issues.
4. We recognize that the relationship we have with the governor is critical to moving our public education agenda forward.
5. Education requires bi-partisan cooperation.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Roy Harward
This morning I met with Roy Harward, a candidate for the School Board in Precinct 3 currently held by Dr. Christensen. He wanted to meet with me to share some of his findings in his study of the budget. He has a finance background and has worked with companies like IBM to find places where there could be cost savings. He has done a lot of work comparing the 2008-2009 pre-split budget to the 2009-2010 budget to the proposed budget for 2010-2011.
It appears that in some categories the Final Amended budget numbers are much greater than the Approved budget numbers, and yet the Actual budget numbers are closer to the Approved budget than the Amended budget. He believes there should not be as much fluctuation within the budgets. He based his analysis on the assumption that we lost 40% of the students at the split, and so all budget categories should have been reduced by about 40%. Many areas were for the 2009-2010 year, and many more areas are since the lay-offs/non-hiring after employees retired for the 2010-2011 year.
There are a few areas which remain at or above pre-split levels. I will be doing more study of these areas to see if I can understand why the cuts have not been implemented there.
PAC will be meeting to decide which candidate to endorse in each of the three School Board races. JEA will make those endorsements public.
It appears that in some categories the Final Amended budget numbers are much greater than the Approved budget numbers, and yet the Actual budget numbers are closer to the Approved budget than the Amended budget. He believes there should not be as much fluctuation within the budgets. He based his analysis on the assumption that we lost 40% of the students at the split, and so all budget categories should have been reduced by about 40%. Many areas were for the 2009-2010 year, and many more areas are since the lay-offs/non-hiring after employees retired for the 2010-2011 year.
There are a few areas which remain at or above pre-split levels. I will be doing more study of these areas to see if I can understand why the cuts have not been implemented there.
PAC will be meeting to decide which candidate to endorse in each of the three School Board races. JEA will make those endorsements public.
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