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Council Highlights 10-18-06

The MASA Executive Board and Council met October 18, 2006 at the MSU University Club in East Lansing, Michigan. Here are some highlights.

1. Executive Director William Mayes and the conference committee reported that the Fall Conference was attended by near record numbers of MASA members and sponsors. Evaluations indicate well over 90% found the conference met or exceeded their expectations. The increased focus on student achievement and practical leadership support is hitting the mark with members as well, with the majority of those responding wanting continued focus in these areas.

2. Guest speaker Tom White, chair of the K-16 Coalition and YES! On 5 campaign presented election updates. White contended that this is still a winnable campaign, and urged members to stay active in communicating and disseminating information in their communities. Even if your district does not support Proposal 5, he said, we all have a responsibility to dispel the many myths that the opposition is spreading to raise fear and confusion. With or without passage of Proposal 5, legislators will need to take action to protect the stability and viability of public education, and now is a good time to talk about the facts with our communities. White urges members to send letters to the editor during the final campaign week. Samples are available from MASA and from the YES! On 5 campaign.

3. Legislative Committee reported the state is showing poor revenues for the past quarter. Brad Biladeau will be tracking this issue closely and will keep the committee and MASA members informed about any future action by the legislature, which is not likely to act until after the November elections. Brad reported that approximately 38% of those who received it responded to an action alert about the State Board’s upcoming vote regarding changes to proposed seclusion and restraint policies. With only a small percentage of our members taking action, we have made an impact. We recently learned that the State Board has postponed that vote until December, so there is still time for MASA members to learn more and add their voices to the dialogue.

4. The Professional Development committee reported they will be collecting samples of models for superintendent evaluation tools and processes. They hope to compile a guide to common practices and innovative ideas that members can use for reference when designing their own evaluation by the board. They invite members to send copies of their evaluation tools and description of the process(es) they use. (You can remove identifying language if you prefer.) Send to Marsha Wells at Grand Ledge Public Schools, 220 Lamson St., Grand Ledge, MI 48837-1760; wellsm@glps.k2.mi.us.