Daniel Kukuk, Author at AFT Michigan https://aftmichigan.org/author/dkukuk/ A Union of Professionals Wed, 05 Aug 2020 20:04:20 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 AFT Michigan Releases Guidelines for School Reopenings https://aftmichigan.org/aft-michigan-releases-guidelines-for-school-reopenings/ Wed, 05 Aug 2020 20:02:26 +0000 https://aftmichigan.org/?p=8418 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 5, 2020 Schools should not resume in-person instruction until it’s safe for students and educators MICHIGAN – On Wednesday, AFT Michigan laid out their position on when and if K-12 schools should resume in-person instruction. This position was developed by the union’s governing board.  AFT Michigan believes it is only safe […]

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]]> FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 5, 2020

Schools should not resume in-person instruction until it’s safe for students and educators

MICHIGAN – On Wednesday, AFT Michigan laid out their position on when and if K-12 schools should resume in-person instruction. This position was developed by the union’s governing board. 

AFT Michigan believes it is only safe for students and staff to return to in-person instruction when the following conditions are met:

  • The infection and transmission rates of the virus are under control in the surrounding community;
  • The district’s safety plan and building adaptations meet the standards established by public health experts; 
  • The district has implemented common sense HR policies ensuring that no employee feels pressure to come to school when they should be staying at home; and
  • The district has collectively bargained letters of agreement with all relevant unions, as required by law, and collaboratively developed a plan for virtual/hybrid learning that does not involve privatization.

These conditions build on Governor Whitmer’s MI Safe Schools Roadmap that provides a framework to protect students and school employees while also making sure the students are getting the learning experience they need and deserve. We see the Roadmap’s required actions as the minimum a school district, college and university should do.

“We stand with students and educators across the state,” said David Hecker, president of AFT Michigan.“In any plan to reopen schools, the wellbeing of students and staff must be our first priority. Our goal is to negotiate in good faith with employers and ensure schools are fully prepared to keep students and educators safe before they resume in-person instruction. We appreciate those employers who have come to the bargaining table with a commitment to reach an agreement. We view collective action as a very last resort and hope it will not be necessary—but as our national union announced last week, if a local union deems it necessary to protect the health and safety of students and staff, we will support them. We sincerely hope we are able to reach agreements with employers and educators are not put in that position.”

In July, the union released its reopening position regarding higher education.

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]]> Executive Order Closing Public Schools for Remainder of 19-20 School Year https://aftmichigan.org/executive-order-closing-public-schools-for-remainder-of-19-20-school-year/ Thu, 02 Apr 2020 15:17:13 +0000 https://aftmichigan.org/?p=8093 The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is a respiratory disease that can result in serious illness
or death. It is caused by a new strain of coronavirus not previously identified in humans
and easily spread from person to person. There is currently no approved vaccine or antiviral
treatment for this disease.
On March 10, 2020, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services identified the
first two presumptive-positive cases of COVID-19 in Michigan. On that same day, I issued
Executive Order 2020-4. This order declared a state of emergency across the state of
Michigan under section 1 of article 5 of the Michigan Constitution of 1963, the Emergency
Management Act, 1976 PA 390, as amended, MCL 30.401-.421, and the Emergency Powers
of the Governor Act of 1945, 1945 PA 302, as amended, MCL 10.31-.33.

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]]> Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-35 on April 2, which orders all K-12 school buildings to close for the remainder of the school year — unless restrictions are lifted — and ensures at-home learning will be provided to students, families in need will still be provided meals, and all staff will  have health care coverage.

“My number one priority right now is protecting Michigan families from the spread of COVID-19. For the sake of our students, their families, and the more than 100,000 teachers and staff in our state, I have made the difficult decision to close our school facilities for the remainder of the school year,” Governor Whitmer said. “As a parent, I understand the challenge closing schools creates for parents and guardians across the state, which is why we are setting guidelines for schools to continue remote learning and ensuring parents have resources to continue their children’s education from the safety of their homes. There is no video chat or homework packet that can replace the value of a highly trained, experienced teacher working with students in a classroom, but we must continue to provide equitable educational opportunities for students during this public health crisis.”

AFT Michigan supports this decision, and appreciates that Governor Whitmer listened to and addressed the concerns of our members.

“Governor Whitmer made the right decision several weeks ago to close PreK-12 school buildings to students to protect the health and safety of Michigan’s students, school staff, and communities,” President David Hecker said.

“We fully support the Governor’s Executive Order, which maintains the school building closure for this school year. This approach ensures students will still be engaged with learning opportunities, families will continue to receive meals, and all school staff will continue to receive pay and health care coverage.

“AFT Michigan and our local unions are committed to serving as productive and collaborative partners to local school districts as they implement continuity of learning plans for the remainder of this school year, and to provide additional interventions and services to students in the coming years.” 

Main Components of Executive Order No. 2020-35

  • Closure:School building are closed for the remainder of the year, unless the Governor indicates it is safe to reopen.
  • Days/hours Forgiveness: 13 days are forgiven due to state-mandated closure, above allowable “snow days” and allow an additional 5 professional development days to count toward instructional time.
  • Continuity of Learning Plans: Districtsmust develop a plan for the remainder of the school year to provide at-home learning opportunities for students, and submit an application for approval by the district’s ISD or charter school authorizer. Upon approval by the ISD/Authorizer, will submit plans to MDE and the “waiver” for remainder days/hours will be automatically granted. The plan must include:
    • Description of plan and type of delivery for continued instruction
    • Commitment to continue providing food distribution, pay all school employees, continue providing mental health services, and support efforts to provide childcare for essential workforce
    • If the plan relies on some online instruction, the district should ensure every student has access to an appropriate device with an ability to connect to the internet.  Students and families should not be penalized for an inability to fully participate in the plan. Districts may partner with each other or with external organizations/vendors in order to implement the plan. 
    • Districts must involveteachers and staff in development of the plan.
  • Staff Pay and Benefits:The Executive Order requires ALL staff be paid, and continue receiving their health care and retirement benefits through out the closure period. The EO provides the necessary funding for districts to pay ALL staff from the day the school closure order began (March 11) through the end of the school year. 
  • Educator Evaluations: Suspends requirements for educator evaluations for this school year.
  • Teacher Certification and Continuing Education: Gives Superintendent additional flexibility to issue initial educator certifications and renewals, to address barriers caused by COVID-19.
  • Attendance:Waive 75 percent attendance rule since the state emergency was declared.
  • Facilities:District facilities may be used by public school employees and contractors to facilitate distance learning and meal delivery, with only absolutely necessary work being done in-person, and social distancing guidelines are followed
  • School Calendar:Districts are allowed to adopt a balanced calendar for the 2019-2020 school year, or to begin the 2020-2021 school year before Labor Day without requiring an additional waiver; calendar and schedule are still a subject of collective bargaining.
  • Assessments: All spring assessments are cancelled, and all laws requiring standardized testing data are suspended (A-F school grading, Third Grade Reading retention, educator evaluation, Partnership District goals for this year). SAT is postponed for rising seniors until the fall, other high school students will be able to take PSAT in the fall.
  • High School Graduation/Michigan Merit Curriculum: Districts must develop a plan/process to give grades to seniors, award credits needed for graduation, certify transcripts, and confer diplomas.  Districts encouraged to award credit for prior learning/content mastery and/or utilize project based learning, a portfolio/resume approach, or a culminating activity.   
  • Special Education: Districts must follow guidance from US Department of Education, and support students and their IEPs to the fullest extent possible, but recognizes that districts will need to provide compensatory services to students with special needs when the emergency is lifted. Encourages MDE to seek additional guidance, flexibility, and waivers from the US Department of Education related to students with IEPs and 504 plans.
  • MPSERS: School closure will not affect contributions or accrual of service credits for MPSERS.
  • Collective Bargaining: Collective bargaining agreements must not be infringed by implementation of the Executive Order.
  • PPE and Supplies: Permits and encourages districts to donate unused PPE, cleaning supplies and other materials to their local emergency management program.

To read the Governor’s press release on the issue click here.https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/0,9309,7-387-90499_90640-524028–,00.html

eo-2020-35-emerg-order-education-final-signed-1

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]]> State Budget https://aftmichigan.org/state-budget/ Mon, 23 Sep 2019 18:50:48 +0000 https://aftmichigan.org/?p=7669 Legislature Votes on K-12 Budget, Votes on University and Community College Budgets Expected Tomorrow With the state’s fiscal year ending September 30, we expect the flurry of legislative activity to continue as the Legislature finalizes budgets to send to Governor Whitmer.  Once the bills reach her desk, Governor Whitmer has the option to sign the […]

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]]> Legislature Votes on K-12 Budget, Votes on University and Community College Budgets Expected Tomorrow

With the state’s fiscal year ending September 30, we expect the flurry of legislative activity to continue as the Legislature finalizes budgets to send to Governor Whitmer.  Once the bills reach her desk, Governor Whitmer has the option to sign the budgets as written, sign the budgets but issue line-item vetoes over specific expenditures, or veto the bills outright. 

Both the House and Senate approved the K-12 School Aid budget, which is expected to be formally sent to the governor in the coming days. Both the House and Senate are yet to vote on the Universities and Community Colleges budgets, though we anticipate votes to be held Tuesday. We urge members to contact their legislators to ask for increased university and community college funding. Details on all three budgets are below.

K-12 Budget

Last week, HB 4242, which appropriates money for K-12 public schools, passed the Legislature. The bill was amended at the last minute on Thursday morning after Senate and House Democrats showed great negotiating strength to increase funding for special education and removed language which would have diverted funds for at-risk students based on standardized test scores. Additionally, language requiring partnership school districts to close or reconstitute a school was changed to optional. 

The total K-12 School Aid budget is $13.2 billion, an increase of $343 million, or 2.7 percent. The current rate of inflation according to the US Bureau of Labor statistics is 2.9 percent.  Districts will see an increase of $120 to $240 per pupil, distributed via the 2x formula with the lowest funded districts receiving the highest increases. Special education funding was increased by $60.2 million for local school districts and intermediate school districts to increase reimbursements by 2 percent.  The bill passed with some House Democrats and all Senate Democrats opposing the bill for still falling far short of Governor Whitmer’s proposed spending on K-12 education. 

Click here to look up how the proposed budget will impact your school district.

Community Colleges

The Legislature is expected to vote Tuesday on SB 134, which provides an increase of 1 percent to community colleges, bringing the total budget to $408 million. In 2001, the state spent $320 million on community colleges, adjusted for inflation, that amount would be $462 million today. 

The 1 percent increase is distributed according to a performance funding model, with individual community colleges will see increases ranging from .5 percent to 4.8 percent. The 1 percent increase is distributed through a performance funding formula similar to the one used last year, but with an addition 5 percent weight to the 6 community colleges with the lowest taxable property values, and by reducing the weight for number of contact hours from 30 percent to 25 percent. Under the current formula, budget increases for colleges where AFT Michigan represents members include:

  • Henry Ford: .5 percent
  • Kalamazoo Valley: .8 percent
  • Kirtland: 2.1 percent
  • Lansing: .9 percent
  • Macomb: .6 percent
  • Wayne County: .7 percent

The budget was approved by the conference committee with only support from Republican legislators. 

For details on the community colleges budget as agreed to by the Conference Committee, including a breakdown of the increases and total funding for each college, click here.

Universities

The Legislature is also expected to vote Tuesday on HB 4236, which provides a 1 percent increase of $15 million in university funding, for a total of $1.55 billion. In 2001, the state spent $1.95 billion on Michigan’s public universities, but adjusted for inflation, that amount would be $2.75 billion today.

The 1 percent increase is distributed through the same performance funding formula used last year, but does include “legislative intent” language requiring committees to seek input on changes to the formulas used in future budgets. Under the current formula, budget increases for institutions include:

  • Central: 2.1 percent
  • Eastern: .7 percent
  • Ferris: 2.0 percent
  • Michigan State: .9 percent
  • UM Ann Arbor: .6 percent
  • UM Dearborn: 1.0 percent
  • UM Flint: 1.3 percent
  • Wayne State: .5 percent
  • Western: 1.0 percent

The budget was approved by the conference committee with only support from Republican legislators. 

For details on the universities budget as agreed to by the Conference Committee, including a breakdown of the increases and total funding for each university, click here.

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]]> AFT Michigan Presidents’ Update- https://aftmichigan.org/aft-michigan-presidents-update-6/ Mon, 20 May 2019 16:00:36 +0000 https://aftmichigan.org/?p=7597 Action Network Email May 20, 2019 1 UNIVERSITY The 1 University Coalition had a major presence at last week’s University of Michigan Board of Regents Meeting, with speaker after speaker imploring UM to do right by its Flint and Dearborn campuses. 1 University states that UM is governed by one board and has one president, […]

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May 20, 2019

1 UNIVERSITY

The 1 University Coalition had a major presence at last week’s University of Michigan Board of Regents Meeting, with speaker after speaker imploring UM to do right by its Flint and Dearborn campuses. 1 University states that UM is governed by one board and has one president, so all campuses should be treated equitably. The Flint and Dearborn campuses receive far, far fewer resources than Ann Arbor.  While the state must meet its obligation to fund all Michigan universities to meet student needs, UM should share its resources equitably. 1 University is a coalition of the Lecturer Employees Organization, the Graduate Employees Organization, students, and tenured faculty.

WARREN WOODS RATIFIES CONTRACT!

Last week, Warren Woods Paraprofessionals voted overwhelmingly to ratify a temporary agreement for their 2019-2021 contract.  A few highlights include, a return of five unpaid leave days, an additional step, and a signing bonus. Warren Woods Paraprofessionals President Megan Hohensee, stated, “Members are satisfied with this agreement.”

RSVP TODAY FOR #REDFORED FUNDING RALLIES!

We’re joining forces with the Michigan Education Association to hold rallies on June 18 and 25 at the Michigan Capitol Building to demand the Michigan Legislature invest in our students, educators, schools, colleges, and universities.

Why? Because Governor Whitmer proposed a bold budget, upping the state’s budget for PreK-16 education by more than half a billion dollars. But Republican leaders in Lansing are proposing budgets which barely keep up with inflation — if at all.

We must act. Join us in Lansing on Tuesday, June 18 and/or Tuesday, June 25 — if school is not in session in your district. Click here to RSVP and for additional details.

MACOMB COMMUNITY COLLEGE ADJUNCTS HEAD TO FACT-FINDING

After more than a year of contract negotiations and three sessions with a state-appointed mediator, The Association of Adjunct Faculty of Macomb Community College (AAFMCC), AFT Local 6533, has filed a fact-finding petition with the Michigan Employment Relations Committee. See an article from the Macomb Daily here and look out for suggestions for how you can support AAFMCC once the fact-finder’s report is issued.

IN THE COMMUNITY

Detroit Federation of Teacher President Terrence Martin and I renewed our commitment to support efforts to strengthen the voice of students. We made the pledge during 482Forward’s conference, this past Saturday, May 18, entitled “You Deserve Quality Education in Your Neighborhood.”

MICHIGAN AFL-CIO SUPPORTS SIGNIFICANT INCREASES TO EDUCATION FUNDING

Last week, the Michigan AFL-CIO convention unanimously adopted a resolution in support of the findings of the School Finance Research Collaborative calling for significant increases in PreK-12 funding and in support of meaningful increases in community college and university funding. President Ron Bieber (UAW) and Secretary-Treasurer Daryl Newman (AFT) were re-elected. Daryl also serves as President of the Metro Detroit AFL-CIO.

DO YOU KNOW A HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT THAT WOULD MAKE A GREAT K12 TEACHER?!

The College of Education at Wayne State University is launching a teacher preparation summer program. The Next Gen Teachers Summer Program is a two week, non-residential program targeting underrepresented high school sophomores/juniors interested in a teaching career.  The program is entirely FREE for students, lunch will be served each day on WSU’s Detroit campus, and successful participants will receive a $500 Raise.Me scholarship to attend WSU!

The College of Education would like to ask for your assistance in identifying potential students for this dynamic new program. Students should be completing their sophomore or junior year of high school; have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5; and have an interest in pursuing a career as a teacher.

The first installment of the Next Gen Teachers Summer Bridge Program will launch July 8 through July 19, 2019.

Students may submit their interest application at: https://go.wayne.edu/nextgenteachers.  If you have any questions or would like promotional materials, contact Jeff Lisiecki at gc2394@wayne.edu.

UPCOMING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

The Bully Mindset Shift PreK-12

Saturday, June 1, 2019

8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

AFT Michigan office

This workshop will provide strategies to change Bully from a noun to a verb. Participants will be introduced to activities that focus on changing the behavior/mindset of those individuals who bully.

Click here to register.

In Solidarity,

David Hecker

President
Sent via ActionNetwork.org.
To update your email address, change your name or address, or to stop receiving emails from AFT Michigan, please click here.



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]]> AFT Michigan Presidents’ Update- https://aftmichigan.org/aft-michigan-presidents-update-5/ Mon, 13 May 2019 12:30:26 +0000 https://aftmichigan.org/?p=7590 Action Network Email May 13, 2019 RSVP Today For #RedForEd Funding Rallies! We’re joining forces with the Michigan Education Association to hold rallies on June 18 and 25 at the Michigan Capitol Building to demand the Michigan Legislature invest in our students, educators, schools, colleges, and universities. Why? Because Governor Whitmer proposed a bold budget, […]

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May 13, 2019

RSVP Today For #RedForEd Funding Rallies!

We’re joining forces with the Michigan Education Association to hold rallies on June 18 and 25 at the Michigan Capitol Building to demand the Michigan Legislature invest in our students, educators, schools, colleges, and universities.

Why? Because Governor Whitmer proposed a bold budget, upping the state’s budget for PreK-16 education by more than half a billion dollars.But Republican leaders in Lansing are proposing budgets which barely keep up with inflation — if at all.
We must act. Join us in Lansing on Tuesday, June 18 and/or Tuesday, June 25 — if school is not in session in your district. Click here to RSVP and for additional details.

Whitmer Appoints Five AFT Members to Educators Advisory Council

Governor Whitmer appointed five AFT Michigan members to her newly created fifteen member Educators Advisory Council. This Council will advise the Governor on PreK-12 education issues. Appointed are Zeinab Chami, Dearborn Federation of Teachers; Anne Markey, MI Alliance of Charter Teaches and Staff (Boggs School); Lisa Rivard, WSU Union of Part-Time Faculty; Marcus Walton, Detroit Federation of Teachers; and Jeff Whittle, Macomb ISD Federation of Paraprofessionals. Congratulations to all and thank you to everyone who applied.

AFT Michigan’s Voice in Detroit News

Last week the Detroit News published an editorial from me and Sandy Baruah, President of the Detroit Chamber of Commerce, in support of Governor Whitmer’s proposed Michigan Opportunity and Michigan Reconnect programs that will increase access to post-secondary education. Today, the Detroit News printed an article from me and Tashaune Harden in response to a previous op ed about unions and charter schools that failed to note the anti-union positioning of many charter school private companies.

Please read those articles here:

Hemlock Auxiliary Service Employees Award Scholarship

Hemlock Auxiliary Service Employees, AFT 3509 awarded a $500.00 Scholarship to Jonas Kanouse who is graduating this year from Hemlock Public Schools. Jonas’ mother is paraprofessional and AFT Michigan member who has been with the district for 9 years.  


Upcoming Professional Development

The Bully Mindset Shift PreK-12

Saturday, June 1, 2019

8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

AFT Michigan office

This workshop will provide strategies to change Bully from a noun to a verb. Participants will be introduced to activities that focus on changing the behavior/mindset of those individuals who bully.

Click here to register.

In Solidarity,

David Hecker

President
Sent via ActionNetwork.org.
To update your email address, change your name or address, or to stop receiving emails from AFT Michigan, please click here.

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]]> AFT Michigan Presidents’ Update- https://aftmichigan.org/aft-michigan-presidents-update-4/ Wed, 08 May 2019 13:00:47 +0000 https://aftmichigan.org/?p=7541 Action Network Email May 8, 2019 Sen. Kamala Harris Visits Michigan as part of #AFTVotes Endorsement Process On Monday, Senator Kamala Harris (D-CA) visited Miller Elementary in Dearborn and the Academy of the Americas in Detroit, and then participated in a town hall with more than 250 AFT Michigan members at Marcus Garvey Academy (which […]

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May 8, 2019

Sen. Kamala Harris Visits Michigan as part of #AFTVotes Endorsement Process

On Monday, Senator Kamala Harris (D-CA) visited Miller Elementary in Dearborn and the Academy of the Americas in Detroit, and then participated in a town hall with more than 250 AFT Michigan members at Marcus Garvey Academy (which was also streamed live on Facebook). This visit was one in a series that AFT is hosting with candidates in locations around the country to make sure the candidates are hearing directly from members about what is important to us. If you are interested in learning more about the AFT endorsement process, you can visit aftvotes.org. A big thank you to the staff at Miller, Academy of the Americas and Marcus Garvey, who were great hosts and of course everyone who came out to the town hall and participated. I know a lot of people appreciated getting to see what Senator Harris was like in person – after spending a good chunk of the day with her, I can confirm that she really is as smart and genuine as she comes across and really engaged with the students and staff at each visit. I’m looking forward to hearing from the other candidates as part of this process and encourage everyone to try to check out the livestreams of these #AFTvotes events going forward.

Bills Signed on Student Growth Percentage for Educator Evaluation

Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed last week SB 122 and 202, introduced by Republican Sen. Ken Horn (R-Frankenmuth). These bills, for which AFT Michigan lobbied in support, maintain the percentage of student growth in educator evaluations at 25 percent. The bills have immediate effect.

Forgiveness of School Cancellation for State of Emergency Days Sent to Governor

HB 4208, sponsored by Rep. Ben Frederick (R-Owosso), was passed by the House and Senate last week, and given immediate effect. While the House originally passed a version of this bill that ensured all staff, including hourly workers, would be paid for cancelled school days, the Michigan Senate stripped this language and sent it back to the House. The bill which ultimately earned majority support in both chambers does not include this provision, and only applies to this current school year.

AFT Michigan and AFSCME Council 25 lobbied extensively to include protections for hourly worker pay; however, Republican legislators in the Senate vehemently opposed the provision. Our work to ensure fairness for school support staff is not over. If you are an hourly worker not being paid for cancelled school days, please email Julie Rowe at jrowe@aftmichigan.org.

MSU GEU Reaches Tentative Agreement

The Graduate Employees Union at MSU reached an agreement on a new contract early last Friday morning. Key to the settlement was an engaged membership directly involved in the bargaining process. Issue teams researched and presented proposals to management, and stewards organized members to engage in actions to let the university administration know what members wanted. Housing costs were a major concern, following the elimination of most of the on-campus graduate housing in recent years. Members erected tent cities at various locations around campus to let the MSU community know about their plight and political leaders from the Lansing area spoke at a rally Thursday in support of the GEU members. While MSU originally offered only a 2% increase in minimum salaries and a 6% across the board raise spread over four years, the efforts of members resulted in a TA that includes a 17.5% increase in minimums and 8% across the board over 4 years, which will dramatically help the lowest-paid members of the unit. The membership fought hard for a voice in making changes to policies around sexual harassment and bullying and gained representation on the committee reforming these policies university-wide. International students came to the table with deep concerns over speaking tests that were failing people at an alarming rate and were able to get the university to change many practices in this area. The TA also helps make MSU more welcoming to parents, with wins including new emergency childcare services and larger stipends for dependent healthcare. Congratulations to all involved.

WSU RiseUp Detroit Website

WSU is launching a new website regarding civil rights in Detroit called RiseUp Detroit.

Also part of this website will be a teacher plan, so if you know of any members that would be interested in this send them the info as well.

https://today.wayne.edu/news/2019/04/16/rise-up-detroit-preserves-the-history-of-citys-civil-rights-movement-31582

Upcoming Professional Development

The Bully Mindset Shift PreK-12

Saturday, June 1, 2019

8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

AFT Michigan office

This workshop will provide strategies to change Bully from a noun to a verb. Participants will be introduced to activities that focus on changing the behavior/mindset of those individuals who bully.

Click here to register.

In Solidarity,

David Hecker

President
Sent via ActionNetwork.org.
To update your email address, change your name or address, or to stop receiving emails from AFT Michigan, please click here.

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]]> AFT Michigan Presidents’ Update- https://aftmichigan.org/aft-michigan-presidents-update-3/ Mon, 15 Apr 2019 16:11:56 +0000 https://aftmichigan.org/?p=7530 Action Network Email April 15, 2019 Final Leadership Summit of the Year Thanks to everyone who joined us in Ypsilanti this weekend for our final Leadership Summit of the year.  In addition to great workshops, we had robust discussions about how we move forward in creating more equitable and effective education funding systems in Michigan […]

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April 15, 2019

Final Leadership Summit of the Year

Thanks to everyone who joined us in Ypsilanti this weekend for our final Leadership Summit of the year.  In addition to great workshops, we had robust discussions about how we move forward in creating more equitable and effective education funding systems in Michigan (at the K-12 and Higher Ed levels) and several locals in the LEAD program returned on Sunday to continue working on their strategic plans.  Mark your calendars: our next statewide event is tentatively scheduled for September 28-29, 2019, at UM-Dearborn — we’ll send out a full calendar when it is finalized.

Bills to Reduce Student Growth Percentage in Teacher, Admin Evaluation Pass Senate

Senate Bills 122 and 202, sponsored by Sen. Ken Horn, unanimously passed the Michigan Senate last Wednesday. Under the bills, the percentage of student growth used to determine teacher and administrator evaluation scores would remain at 25 percent. Under current law, the student growth percentage is set to increase to 40 percent at the end of this school year. Originally, the bills would have kept the percentage at 25 indefinitely, however, the bill was amended to only apply to this school year. The goal is to send these bills to the governor’s desk for signature by May.

Help a Retired Teacher Save Her Home

Join us at 12:00 pm, Wednesday, April 17, at the Michigan First Credit Union, 5057 Woodward (Maccabees Building) to call on Michigan First to work with Ms. Halliburton so that she will be able to keep her home. Halliburton is a 73 year-old retired Detroit teacher.



2019 Rollie Hopgood Future Teachers Scholarship Award Applications Now Available Online!

AFT Michigan has three eligibility categories of the “Rollie Hopgood Future Teachers Scholarship Award” for individuals whose future goal is to become a teacher.

The categories are:

1.       Graduating senior of an AFT Michigan high school with the goal of becoming a teacher;

2.       AFT Michigan PSRP
dues paying member enrolled (full- or part-time) in a teacher certification program at a college or university; and

3.       AFT Michigan
dues paying member’s son(s) and/or daughter(s) who is a graduating senior with the goal of becoming a teacher.

Click hereto download the applications. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Linda Moore at tftlindamoore@gmail.com.

Upcoming Professional Development

Culturally Responsive Pedagogy PreK-14 Workshop

Saturday, May 4, 2019

8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

AFT Michigan Office

This in-service will establish the connection between culture and learning, and explore research-based strategies, such as cultural competency, high expectations and critical consciousness.

Click here to register https://aftmichigan.org/events/professional-development-events/#aft-michigan-professional-development/view-actions-details5/5b9ab29c36432c2c3e8d6640/

Upcoming Online AFT Professional Learning Opportunities

Breaking the Myths of International Comparisons
Wednesday, April 24, at 4 p.m. EDT

Have education research data ever seemed to be inapplicable or even incomprehensible? This webinar provides participants with a straightforward assessment of the complex international comparisons we often run into, making them more digestible by connecting them to real-life stories from educators worldwide. Join us to learn the difference between fact and fiction as we conduct a deep dive into U.S. education and the international comparisons that drive our policy decisions. Register now.

In Solidarity,

David Hecker

President
Sent via ActionNetwork.org.
To update your email address, change your name or address, or to stop receiving emails from AFT Michigan, please click here.

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]]> AFT Michigan Presidents’ Update- https://aftmichigan.org/aft-michigan-presidents-update-2/ Mon, 08 Apr 2019 14:11:21 +0000 https://aftmichigan.org/?p=7525 Action Network Email April 8, 2019 Graduate Employees Union Gives MSU Treatment of International Students A Failing Grade   On April 4, MSU graduate assistants filled the lobby outside bargaining to grade papers in protest of the university’s rejection of several key contract proposals. The rejected proposals in particular affect international graduate students, a group […]

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April 8, 2019

Graduate Employees Union Gives MSU Treatment of International Students A Failing Grade

On April 4, MSU graduate assistants filled the lobby outside bargaining to grade papers in protest of the university’s rejection of several key contract proposals. The rejected proposals in particular affect international graduate students, a group that faces a number of hurdles and disadvantages within the university like extra fees to attend MSU, unclear standards and regulations of English speaking evaluations to qualify for teaching positions, and strict working guidelines for their visas that may be violated by overworking. GEU is proposing to abolish these fees, make language assessment more transparent, and provide protection against overwork for international students.

Rader Elected to MDP Executive Committee

Eric Rader, External Vice President of the Henry Ford College Federation of Teachers, was elected the Executive Committee of the Michigan Democratic Party.

I appreciated being re-elected.  Rader is a longtime Democratic Party activist who truly earned this position. Congratulations Eric.

2019 Rollie Hopgood Future Teachers Scholarship Award Applications Now Available Online!

AFT Michigan has three eligibility categories of the “Rollie Hopgood Future Teachers Scholarship Award” for individuals whose future goal is to become a teacher.

The categories are:

1.       Graduating senior of an AFT Michigan high school with the goal of becoming a teacher;

2.       AFT Michigan PSRP dues paying member enrolled (full- or part-time) in a teacher certification program at a college or university; and

3.       AFT Michigan dues paying member’s son(s) and/or daughter(s) who is a graduating senior with the goal of becoming a teacher.

Click hereto download the applications. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Linda Moore at tftlindamoore@gmail.com.

Upcoming Professional Development

Culturally Responsive Pedagogy PreK-14 Workshop

Saturday, May 4, 2019

8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

AFT Michigan Office

This in-service will establish the connection between culture and learning, and explore research-based strategies, such as cultural competency, high expectations and critical consciousness.

Click here to register https://aftmichigan.org/events/professional-development-events/#aft-michigan-professional-development/view-actions-details5/5b9ab29c36432c2c3e8d6640/

Upcoming Online AFT Professional Learning Opportunities

Powerful Learning in Community Schools
Wednesday, April 10, at 5 p.m. EDT

Community schools: What are they, and how can these schools improve student competencies, pedagogic outcomes and school climate? By participating in this webinar, you will learn from educators at the United Federation of Teachers and the Baltimore Teachers Union about how community schools—which enable powerful learning through expanded opportunity and deep networks of partnerships—can also create hands-on learning experiences to ensure student success in the classroom while reducing demands on school staff. Register now.

Breaking the Myths of International Comparisons
Wednesday, April 24, at 4 p.m. EDT

Have education research data ever seemed to be inapplicable or even incomprehensible? This webinar provides participants with a straightforward assessment of the complex international comparisons we often run into, making them more digestible by connecting them to real-life stories from educators worldwide. Join us to learn the difference between fact and fiction as we conduct a deep dive into U.S. education and the international comparisons that drive our policy decisions. Register now.

In Solidarity,

David Hecker

President
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]]> Whittle: Support Staff are Backbone of Our Schools https://aftmichigan.org/whittle-support-staff-are-backbone-of-our-schools/ Mon, 01 Apr 2019 16:19:00 +0000 https://aftmichigan.org/?p=7520 AFT Michigan Vice President, Jeff Whittle who is the president of the Macomb ISD Federation of Paraprofessionals wrote this Op-Ed that appeared in the Macomb Daily on March 29, 2019. You can read the original article here. As we read more about “teacher” strikes across the country fighting for better pay, smaller class sizes, and […]

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]]> AFT Michigan Vice President, Jeff Whittle who is the president of the Macomb ISD Federation of Paraprofessionals wrote this Op-Ed that appeared in the Macomb Daily on March 29, 2019. You can read the original article here.

As we read more about “teacher” strikes across the country fighting for better pay, smaller class sizes, and resources for schools, we don’t often hear about the support staff who are also on picket lines, but these folks are just as important as teachers.

It’s not surprising that support staff are largely ignored during coverage of work actions. In many cases, staff are paid very little and if offered insurance, it’s not affordable. Support staff are often contracted out to the lowest bidder.

Paraprofessionals, bus drivers, custodians, and secretaries are vital support staff for the entire school community. It’s important we acknowledge the work that they do and ensure they have the resources and respect they deserve.

Paraprofessionals help students one-on-one and in groups so they pass their classes and graduate. They often act as a social worker of sorts and address a student’s social and emotional needs to help prepare them for life in school and beyond.

Bus drivers are usually the first school person a student sees in the morning and last person at night. They navigate our roads and drive huge vehicles amidst careless drivers. They need to be on time, know emergency procedures, watch the students and keep their eyes on the road.

Custodians are jack-of-all-trades, looking out for school infrastructure and safety of all students and staff. These folks are also an example for students who may want to pursue the skilled trades.

Secretaries master specialized computer programs for the school to run effectively. They ensure attendance and reporting are timely and done properly. They schedule, plan events and work the front desk as frontline security, as well as administer medication.

Research tells us that a hungry student is at a disadvantage academically. Kitchen staff ensure students are properly fed and have the energy they need to perform well throughout the day.

Support staff, like teachers, spend their own money on students as well, while making a fraction of what teachers make. Often it includes buying a student’s lunch, bringing in clothing, and providing classroom supplies. Special education paraprofessionals perform many medical duties within classrooms for students who need them.

Support staff are vital for the success of students and the school, and yet, they’re often underpaid. I know of one elementary special education paraprofessional who makes around $200 after her insurance costs every two weeks. Working daily with severely special needs students, she is getting scratched, hit and kicked. But she shows up the next day ready to continue the work of improving the student and family’s life.

We often read about teacher shortages. There is a support staff shortage as well. We need to address this shortage, along with treating them with respect.

Recently, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill that will require Secretary of Education Betsy Devos to recognize a school support staff worker nationally. Let’s get it through the Senate and signed into law. Fifteen years ago, the Michigan Department of Education initiated the Support Staff of the Year Award. The program was discontinued. Let’s bring it back!

It is no secret that performance in Michigan’s public schools has plummeted when compared to other states. This is not caused by lack of will and passion of teachers and staff. “You’re not failing us, we have been failing you,” Governor Whitmer stated referencing educators during her State of the State address. Those words ring true for support staff like me.

I speak as a voice for support staff across the state and nation. Fortunately, I am a paraprofessional at the Macomb Intermediate School District where, through collective bargaining, we have fair compensation. Unfortunately, many other districts have struggled or failed to recognize the value of their support staff.

Support staff are integral to our students’ education, to our schools improving. Respect us, honor us, and pay us a fair wage.

Jeff Whittle is president of the Macomb Intermediate School District Federation of Paraprofessionals and the vice president of AFT Michigan.


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]]> AFT Michigan Presidents’ Update- https://aftmichigan.org/aft-michigan-presidents-update/ Mon, 01 Apr 2019 16:07:49 +0000 https://aftmichigan.org/?p=7523 Action Network Email April 1, 2019 U.S. House and Senate Say “Honor Support Staff” Last week, the U.S. Senate joined the U.S. House in passing the Recognizing Achievement in Classified School Employees Act. If signed into law by the President, the U.S. Department of Education Secretary would be required to officially honor support, including the […]

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April 1, 2019

U.S. House and Senate Say “Honor Support Staff”

Last week, the U.S. Senate joined the U.S. House in passing the Recognizing Achievement in Classified School Employees Act. If signed into law by the President, the U.S. Department of Education Secretary would be required to officially honor support, including the support staff person of the year award. Last month, Macomb ISD Federation of Paraprofessionals President Jeff Whittle was in Washington, D.C. lobbying for the bill.

Speaking of Brother Whittle, check his column in this past weekend’s Macomb Daily giving recognition to the work of school support staff.

Whittle: Support staff are backbone of our schools

Court Rules for AFT Michigan in Project Veritas Case

A federal District Judge has refused to dismiss the Federation’s suit against Project Veritas (PV) and an agent of PV who unlawfully recorded conversations with AFT Michigan staff and who stole confidential documents. Project Veritas is a notorious right-wing organization whose purposes include damaging labor unions. The PV playbook includes planting an agent in a progressive organization with the agent then secretly recording conversations with staff. PV then publishes misleading versions of that conversation in an effort to show the organization in a false light. PV is a defendant in several suits in numerous courts involving similar actions.

AFT Michigan sued Project Veritas after an agent engaged in fraud to obtain a position as an intern with the Federation for the purpose of secretly recording conversations with staff and reviewing confidential documents. The Court has now rejected an attempt by PV and the agent to dismiss the case and among other conclusions held that the unconsented and undisclosed recording of private conversations is unlawful.

The case will now proceed through the discovery phase with trial sometime in 2020.

LAST CHANCE to Register for AFT Michigan’s April Leadership Summit

REGISTER TODAY

This is your last chance to register for our third and final installment of AFT Michigan’s 2018-19 Leadership Summit series. On Saturday, April 13 AFT Michigan members will convene at the EMU Conference Center at the Eagle Crest Resort in Ypsilanti. Conference registration and breakfast begins at 8:30 a.m.

On Sunday, April 14 some participants will return for:

  • LEAD: Only for locals who opt into the LEAD program
  • Union Administration Workshop: Mass Communication Tools for AFT Locals
  • Using Quickbooks to Streamline Your Financial Review & Audit

Please click here to register and for additional information about the conference, hotel accommodations, and mileage reimbursement.

**We are unable to add special food requests at this time.


Student Debt Workshop

AFT Michigan members are invited to participate in a Student Debt Clinic following our Leadership Summit from 3:30-5:00 pm on Saturday, April 13. Space is limited to 30 participants and is first come, first serve, so register now at https://aft.knack.com/member-mobilization-tracker#register-for-debt-clinic/.

We are very luck to have Lisa Laverty, former EMUFT President and AFT Michigan Vice President, back in Michigan as AFT’s Great Lakes Region Student Debt Clinic coordinator. Lisa is already working with locals to bring personalized clinics to their members and we hope that you will take advantage of this opportunity to see how a Debt Clinic might fit into your local’s organizing efforts.

To register, visit: https://aft.knack.com/member-mobilization-tracker#register-for-debt-clinic/

AMERICAN FACTORY Film Provides Unique Perspective

A Chinese billionaire opened a glass making factory in a former General Motors Dayton plant in 2015 and moved a large team of employees to Ohio. Three years of film makers access to the factory lines and meetings with the 2,000 employees captured the early days of exhilaration that soon gave way to language and cultural barriers, conflict, and a union organizing campaign. The film AMERICAN FACTORY offers an all-access experience to factory floors and the Dayton-area homes of workers on both sides of the divide.

AMERICAN FACTORY is part of the FREEP FILM FESTIVAL and can be seen on April 12 at 8:00 p.m. at Wayne State’s DeRoy Auditorium and on April 14 at 1:00 p.m. at the Detroit Film Theater at the Detroit Institute of Art.

2019 Great Lakes Union Leadership Institute

Registration is open for this year’s AFT Great Lakes Union Leadership Institute, to be held June 23-27, 2019 at the Lake Lawn Resort in Delavan, WI. The ULI draws leaders from across the region – many of whom bring their families – to learn and develop skills in a great setting. Registration deadline is May 15. AFT Michigan is able to offer a limited amount of need-based scholarships for members of locals unable to pay the full cost of attendance. For more information and a registration form, go to https://aftmichigan.org/2019-great-lakes-union-leadership-institute/.

2019 Rollie Hopgood Future Teachers Scholarship Award Applications Now Available Online!

AFT Michigan has three eligibility categories of the “Rollie Hopgood Future Teachers Scholarship Award” for individuals whose future goal is to become a teacher.

The categories are:

  1. Graduating senior of an AFT Michigan high school with the goal of becoming a teacher;
  2. AFT Michigan PSRP dues paying member enrolled (full- or part-time) in a teacher certification program at a college or university; and
  3. AFT Michigan dues paying member’s son(s) and/or daughter(s) who is a graduating senior with the goal of becoming a teacher.

Click hereto download the applications. Applications are due no later than June 7, 2019. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Linda Moore at tftlindamoore@gmail.com.

In Solidarity,

David Hecker

President

Sent via ActionNetwork.org.
To update your email address, change your name or address, or to stop receiving emails from AFT Michigan, please click here.



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