..

Council Highlights 5-18-05

1. Mike Flanagan thanked outgoing Council President John Vaara (Hancock), retiring Executive Board members Bill Mayes (Huron ISD) and Dennis McComb (Milan). “These members made MASA a better organization,” said Mike Flanagan. “They did a great job carrying the communication two ways.” Mike went on to point out that the key to a professional association is its democratization. "The people you choose to represent your regions and serve on your committees is so important. These people did the jobs well.”
   
2. Special guest Ken MacGregor of the K-16 Coalition for Michigan’s Future provided updates on the Rally scheduled for June 21 on the Capitol steps. Registration begins at noon at the Lansing Center with a brief meeting at 1 p.m., followed by a march to the Capitol at 2 p.m. Some MASA members expressed concern that the Rally might become a vehicle for education associations or others to promote legislation or policies our organization does not endorse. Ken, who serves as the Rally coordinator and self-described “Czar of Message,” shared that Rally organizers are committed to crafting a common message on signs, banners, and other communication tools that advocates adequate funding for K-16 education and supports the passage of SB 246 and HB 4582. Ken assured the group that this shared message will be strictly enforced during all Rally activities by trained “marshals” who will remove “unapproved” signs and help participants stay on message. If you plan to bring a group, be sure to register in advance. It will help staff plan and ensure you receive Rally news. In addition, Ken shared a legal opinion by Thrun Law Firm PC that nothing in the law prevents schools or school personnel from promoting the Rally during school time or using school resources. However, it is the shared opinion of MASA and other K-16 Coalition members that it is inappropriate to attend the rally on school time or to bring groups on school buses. For more information, visit www.michigank16.org/rally.html
   
3. Mike Flanagan and Oscar Brown presented the MASA preliminary proposal for an interim placement services program. The program, which will launch in 2005, will respond to member districts’ need for interim superintendents and other administrators. The program will serve three goals: 1) to expand and enhance MASA services to members; 2) to place high-quality professionals in short-term interim positions; and 3) to allow retired superintendents an opportunity to share knowledge and skills while remaining connected to the education community. Watch for more information in MASA publications.
   
4. The Executive Board approved the 2005-06 budget, which reflects employee salary and benefit increases below the cost of living. In addition, MASA will freeze member dues and sponsorship fees out of sensitivity to the economic challenges currently facing Michigan’s schools.
   
5. Council approved the Legislative Committee recommendations and positions. This month the Committee discussed school bond loan fund reform, sinking fund modifications, “Save the Children” package, and more. Read highlights at the MASA website. Brad Biladeau reported that MASA efforts and testimony helped move HB 4534 out of committee. If passed by the full legislature, the bill would require benefits providers to provide claims history to public school employers they serve.
   
6. Region Remarkables —
   a. Region 1 reported that since 1994, enrollment in Upper Peninsula schools has dropped by 10,000 students, resulting in millions of dollars in reduced revenues to schools and the local economy.
   
   b. Region 9 reported that Council Member and Janet Jopke (Troy) is experiencing a difficult recovery to a recent heart surgery. If you know Jan, you can send cards and well-wishes to Jan through the Troy School District.