A year ago we never envisioned that this September could possibly be more difficult than last year’s, but for many that I have heard from, it seems that it is. With recommendations from the state rather than last year’s requirements, and with varying opinions on many issues seemingly even stronger now, getting the academic year underway is presenting a number of challenges. MEA continues our efforts to advocate for members and to keep you informed on the latest developments, as well as to keep up with our regular supports, services, and programs.
Hopefully being with students is reminding us all about why we do this most important work, despite the challenges we face!
I want to share a quote from a recent interview that NPR did with a few educators, one of them being an MEA member who also serves on the MEA Board of Directors for District B. This is what Suzen Polk-Hoffses said—I hope you are as encouraged by it as I was when I listened: “We have to inspire young people. We have to let them know that being an educator is the greatest thing in the world. And if we could survive this pandemic this past year, you know, then we can do anything.”
You can listen to the interview here: Teachers Reflect On Another Pandemic School Year : NPR
Your Career
The NEA Foundation offers several grants for classroom projects and professional development. The deadline for the next round is October 15th. Find details here: https://www.neafoundation.org/for-educators/ Congratulations to Sylvia Jadczak at Messalonskee High School on receiving a Student Success grant and to Blayne Matty at the Shapleigh Middle School on recently being named a 2022 Global Learning Fellow!
Have student loan debt? Though the pause on payments and interest for federally held loans was extended through January 31, 2022, be sure to check out NEA’s Student Debt Navigator by Savi: https://www.neamb.com/products/student-loan-forgiveness-and-refinancing Also, Horace Mann, one of MEA’s endorsed vendors, has a program to help: Horace Mann Educators Corporation | Auto, Home, Rent, Life Insurance and Retirement Annuities Be sure to check out all the other NEA Member Benefits at neamb.com for more ways to save and also talk with your area Horace Mann rep about their products! And let potential MEA members know how much they can save when they join MEA!
The fall session of NEA’s social-emotional learning courses begins Sept. 20th. FMI and to register: Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Courses | NEA
NEA offers professional development especially for education support professionals (ESP). FMI: ESP Professional Growth | NEA
From the Maine Department of Education: While MEA and NEA offer members various trainings and opportunities, I also want to be sure you know about offerings from the Maine DOE: PRIORITY NOTICE: Fall Office Hours, Training, & Professional Learning Opportunities NOW Available (mailchi.mp)
Your Association
Are you ready to raise your voice and engage in the ongoing work of the MEA? If so, contact me to be appointed to an MEA Committee–there are still some vacancies! Meeting dates and committee descriptions are here: Maine Education Association Committees (office.com) Any questions, let me know! First meeting date is September 25th for most committees.
For our newer educators, watch for information about upcoming events for “YEPs” (Young Education Professionals—the first are planned for Sept. 21st in the Portland area and Sept. 28th in the Bangor area. Get connected with others to be supported and share ideas and experiences.
The last legislative session resulted in a lot of progress for educators and public education—from the 55% state funding for education and increased funding for higher ed, 55% state share of health insurance for retired educators who are in MePERS, making planning and prep time and transfers permissive subjects of bargaining for pre-K-12, and lots, lots more! This all happens when we have friends of public education in the elected positions making informed decisions, and when you raise your voice! The next session is a ‘short’ session, and cloture is Sept. 24th—but if you have an idea for this year or the next, let us know asap. Also, passing laws is just one step—implementation is important! MEA will be providing guidance on this in a webinar planned for Sept. 22nd –watch for details.
This year’s MEA Fall Conference will focus on organizing—will your local send a team? Watch for details coming soon—meanwhile, save the date: you and your team will have a choice of either October 16th or October 23rd (held in different parts of the state).
Check out NEA’s Leadership Development courses 101 and 102 here: Leadership Competencies | NEA
Of Interest
Thinking of retiring in the near future? Then plan to attend the Pre-Retirement Seminars, graciously offered by MEA-Retired for MEA members. Here is the schedule for this year: https://maineea.org/pre-retirement-seminars/
Nominations and applications for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) to recognize K-6 educators are now available: PAEMST » Nomination
Here is useful information from the US Department of Education: COVID-19 Resources for Schools | SchoolSafety.gov–Return to School Roadmap—Landmark 1–Prioritize the Health and Safety of Students, School Personnel, and Families | U.S. Department of Education
Reminders
I would love to attend your local association meeting or executive board meeting or anything with members—or potential members!—in your district! Many thanks to Dawn Staples, President of the Penobscot Bay EA in Searsport/Stockton Springs, and her executive board for having me at their first association meeting of the year—it was great to be there and speak with members and new hires, and it was energizing to see so many members engaged in the meeting (their exec board knows how to draw them in, for sure!) and step up to help with the work! Many thanks to you all!
MEA President’s Virtual Office Hour Sept. 14th at 7 pm for local presidents and vice presidents. Watch for the invitation next week—join in to network and share with other local leaders around the state and to hear the latest updates. Be sure MEA has the names and contact information for current officers!
Talk with those ‘not-yet-members’—let them know why you belong to MEA!
In closing, Education Week recently had an article entitled “The Best Advice for New Teachers, in 5 Words or Less”. The ideas included really apply to us all, new and veteran alike, no matter our role in public education. Here are a few of them:
“Relationships matter more than anything.”
“Don’t stop loving your students.”
“Never forget why you began.”
“You can make a difference.”
And the best, in my humble opinion: “Give yourself grace every day.”
Stay well, stay strong, stay connected—
In Unity,
Grace
