AFT Michigan Higher Education Issues Conference
On Saturday morning with higher education local leaders from most of the institutions where we represent members–Eastern, Ferris State, Henry Ford CC, Macomb CC, MSU, Northern, Oakland, UM, Wayne State, and Wayne County Community College–took part in a great discussion about our goals and priorities in Lansing and across the state to protect and build on the amazing legacy of our institutions. Thanks to all who attended – the conversations will continue as we solidify our priorities and move forward in the year ahead.
Detroit Casino March
Detroit’s casino workers are fighting for a new contract to improve working conditions and provide a living wage to members. Please support them in their efforts this Thursday, October 19 at 4 p.m. for a march and rally in Detroit. Specifics are listed in the flyer below.
Medical Assistant Week
This is National Medical Assistant Week, which provides a great opportunity to recognize one of our newest groups of AFT Michigan members. Just last month, the Medical Assistants at Michigan Medicine filed for recognition as part of the United Michigan Medicine Allied Professionals, AFT Local 6739. Thank you to our new members in UMMAP, and all medical assistants, for the valuable and too-often overlooked work they do everyday caring for patients.
Teacher Evaluation Lobby Day – Tuesday, October 17
AFT Michigan and the Michigan Education Association will be hosting a Lobby Day tomorrow, Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at 10:00am in support of SB 395-6. These bills remove the current mandate that 40% of a teachers’ rating consist of student growth and assessment data (i.e. standardized tests such as the M-STEP) and place decisions about the role of student assessment data at the bargaining table. It is imperative that these bills are passed and sent to the Governor to be signed into law before legislators leave for the holiday recess.
If you’re able to join us please meet at 100 N. Capitol Ave, Lansing, MI 48933. We and need you to be there to tell them the importance of these bills and as a show of solidarity with all our members
Lake Shore Federation of Teachers Organizing Drive
I had a great time joining the Lake Shore Federation of Teachers at their Fall Organizing Drive event recently – thank you to LSFT President Mistie Ryan and the entire leadership team for the invitation and opportunity to meet with our members.
AFT Share My Lesson Webinar: Debunking Disinformation, Empowering Educators with Tools and Strategies – Tuesday, October 24
You’re invited to join AFT’s Share My Lesson for a free webinar, Debunking Disinformation: Empowering Educators with Tools and Strategies on Tuesday, Oct. 24, at 6:30 p.m. EDT.
In an age where information is readily accessible with just a few taps on a screen, the ability to discern fact from fiction has never been more crucial. Middle and high school students—and even college students—who are at a formative stage in their cognitive and social development, are particularly vulnerable to the pervasive influence of disinformation. It can shape their worldviews, influence their decisions, and even impact their mental well-being.
Teachers occupy a unique position to address this challenge. They can provide students with the tools to critically evaluate sources, understand the motives behind disinformation campaigns, and navigate the digital landscape with discernment. In this upcoming webinar, veteran teachers will be highlighting the AFT’s recent Defining Mis- and Disinformation Toolkit and focusing on portions of the toolkit that seek to equip educators (and parents!) with the tools and resources they need to sensitively and responsibly respond to disinformation in the classroom and at home. Register now.
State of Education Symposium on the Impact of New Legislation for Public School Employees – October 28
Fall Leadership Institute – November 16-18
Registration is still open for the 2023 Fall Leadership Institute until November 9.
The Fall Leadership Institute, running from November 16-18, is a weekend-long conference aimed at providing labor organizers and union leaders with the tools they need to thrive. Workshop offered for everyone – from seasoned leaders to those aspiring for leadership.
Contribute to the AFT Michigan PAC Today
AFT Michigan fights for our members, students and communities all year round and we need your help. Can you donate $1 a week to aid us in this fight? Please visit the AFT Michigan website to contribute and make a big difference in protecting public education and building a better Michigan future!
In solidarity,
Terrence Martin
President
