WEA Board Report

 Ann Bates

 (425) 337-3968

  abates@growl.wednet.edu

WEA has been working with other groups to develop a state teacher evaluation model. This is a proactive approach to the possibility of a legislatively imposed negative state teachers' evaluation tool. A draft of this document will be shared with PUC, and a vote as to supporting it will be taken at the Nov. WEA Board meeting. If endorsed, the document will be used as a model of what a good evaluation tool could be, and it would be available for locals to use in negotiations.

NO ON INITIATIVE 695

The campaign against I-695 (lowering the excise tax on vehicles) is in full swing, supported by both Democrats and Republicans. One negative aspect of this proposed initiative would be to require voter approval of all new taxes. Part of the media campaign highlights how school districts would have to have voter approval to raise the cost of school lunches. While initial results showed voter support, this initiative is too far reaching. WEA voted to oppose the intiative.

BIAS CRIME AWARENESS WEEK

The Northwest Coalition Against Malicious Harassment, along with other human rights organizations, has established the first week in October, Oct. 4-10, 1999, as Bias Crime Awareness Week. Its purpose is to raise awareness about bias crimes in the Pacific Northwest and to develop and promote strategies to counter them. To help you, a booklet has been sent to all school principals, "Ten Ways to Fight Hate." You can also read the booklet on the web. www.spicenter.org

WEASO CONTRACT RATIFIED

After much discussion and sharing of concerns, WEA Bd did ratify the WEASO contract. While this applies primarily to WEA employees in Federal Way and State Option UniServ Councils (SOUPS), our own Local Option UniServ Council (LOUP) is also affected and we need to be assessing the settlement.

NEA has requested email addresses for state members in an effort to keep them informed about educational issues. This will be discussed at the November WEA Board meeting.

EFF Vs. WEA - VICTORY IS OURS!

WEA was awarded a clear win in the lawsuit against us. After over 900 exhibits and months of preparation and trial, Judge McPhee clearly stated that the EFF's allegations were unfounded. Read about the final resolution on the WEA website at www.wa.nea.org

NEWER MEMBERS ATTEND WEALA

WEA's Leadership Academy has proven to be a positive way to get newer members involved with their association. This year 25% of the participants have been education employees for five years or less. 51% have never been to WEALA before. Locals are doing a good job attracting leadership among newer members as well. 76% of these participants are either officers or local representatives.

"WHEN IN DOUBT, SHRED!"

This advice comes from WEA attorney, Jerry Painter, as he discussed WEA's Retention/Destruction Policy for anyone who handles WEA documents. Presidents of locals, councils, staff, etc. will all be receiving copies of the new policy regarding how long to retain specific types of documents. This will be discussed further at Pilchuck UniServ Council.

WEA COMMUNICATION GROWS

In an effort to meet the needs of our growing number of members who use the internet for their main source of information, WEA has now placed WEA ACTION online. Check it out at www.wa.nea.org
In addition, highlights of all WEA Board meetings will be placed on the website.