Volume 46, No. 10NCAEN E W S B U L L E T I NN O R T H C A R O L I N A A S S O C I A T I O N O F E D U C A T O R S June 2016

Lawmakers’ Workto Hash Out Final Budget Begins

The last few weeks have been dominated by the House and Senate approving and passing their respective budgets, which include pay raises for educators. It is an election year after all. However, the proposed budgets are woefully short on the resources our students need to be successful. The combined $22.2 billion budget is making its way to a conference committee for differences to be hashed out for proposal of a final budget. One of the controversial highlights of the budget includes pay raises for teachers depending on years of experience, which once again shortchanges experienced teachers and other education professionals who help our students be successful. Before

passing it on a party line vote, Senate Democrats unsuccessfully tried to amend the bill to make some of the bonuses permanent, add a cost-of-living adjustment for retirees, and to shift a $135 million private school voucher reserve to one for public school textbooks and digital resources. “NCAE has been consistently beating the drum that for students to be more successful, we must invest fully in our public schools by increasing resources students have and by compensating educators as professionals,” said NCAE President-Elect Mark Jewell. “Now that it’s an election year, Senate leaders are trying to play catch-up on teacher pay, but they have gone backwards in some areas with cuts to restore for at-risk

students and technology for our classrooms. “Senate leaders continue a trend of devaluing our most experienced teachers by shortchanging them on raises and also don’t value the whole community of education professionals it takes to make our public schools successful. Instead of investing in our public school students, Senate leaders continue to set artificial spending limits and set aside huge amounts in the state’s Rainy Day Fund when it’s a rainy day for many of our public schools!” To see a comparison of the salary schedules proposed by the governor, House, and Senate, click here.

NCAE News Bulletin June 20162

When NCAE President Rodney Ellis set his sights on becoming a teacher, he never thought it would one day lead to him occupying the seat as the Association’s leader. It all began at Winston-Salem State University, where he served as SNCAE president. Once in the classroom, he filled the position of vice president for the Forsyth County

Association of Educators, and then as president for two consecutive terms. Growth as a leader led him to run for a position on the NCAE Board of Directors, followed by two terms as vice president, and ultimately the presidency. On June 30, Ellis’ term will come to an end and he will begin a new chapter in his life. He plans to continue the fight for public education here in North Carolina and looks forward to many more opportunities to serve and be a role model for children.

I’d like to thank each and every one of you for allowing me to serve in this capacity, for your support, and for the friendships. Over the years I’ve had the pleasure of meeting many of you and working with different organizations and individuals on education issues. I’m proud of the work NCAE has done and what we’ve accomplished together. And although I’m leaving, I would love to see the organization continue on the path of building on what we’ve begun and developed over the last few years, and continue to be a force in education and to be recognized and respected as the voice of public education in North Carolina.

Rodney EllisPresident

Many of you may be wondering what my next career steps will be. As of now, I am looking at several opportunities. I definitely want to continue to work on behalf and/or work directly with children in some capacity. I would love to be in a position where I could continue to help improve the educational experience for children. And, I would not be opposed to continuing this fight against the General Assembly and the things they are doing to dismantle public education in North Carolina’s schools – possibly helping to organize election campaigns or working on behalf of an organization that wants to fight for what’s right in public schools and public education. I would even consider running for an elected position on the state level because I feel you can do so much more at the table than you can outside fighting for a seat at the table. Don’t be surprised if you see my name on the ballot in a few years! As I prepare for my departure, I’d like to leave you with the following: Keep your eye on the bigger picture. Many times people get honed in on what’s important to them. I think it’s important that we as educators in the state’s leading education advocacy organization not allow ourselves to lock in on one or two issues that matter to us personally, but to look broadly at what is happening in this profession, to public schools, to public education in North Carolina and to continue to fight for what’s best for ALL! We have to continue to fight for what benefits students and educators in our public school system! It’s what I’ve believed in since taking this position as your president and I want each of you to continue to work toward that effort. Let’s do what’s right for public schools so all students have a fair opportunity for a quality education. It’s been a wonderful ride! Thank you again from the heart for believing in me, for trusting in me, and for all that you do as educators and as members. God speed.

My NCAE Journey...What a Wonderful Ride It Has Been!

MARK YOUR

CALENDAR!

WHAT: NCAE Lobby DayWHEN: June 15, 2016 WHERE: RaleighTIME: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Your voice has never been more important than now! Go “All In” for public education by

coming to Raleigh to talk with legislators and participate in our pro-public education press

conference. Click here to register.

#allin4publiceducation

NCAE 3News Bulletin June 2016

NCAE State Leaders...Working Tirelessly on Behalf of Our Members and Students!

ABOVE: President Rodney Ellis recently addressed the House Education Appropriations Committee about the importance of investing in public school students, schools, and educators. He also indicated the importance of restoring respect for the profession in order to recruit and retain the quality educators students deserve. RIGHT: Vice President Mark Jewell talks with the media about the impact of HB2 on federal funds for public school students. Loss of funding, he stated, would impact free and reduced lunch and support for low-income schools, students with disabilities, and homeless students.

A Heartfelt “Thank You”On National Teacher Day, President Ellis accepted a “Thank a Teacher” poster from House Democratic Leader Larry Hall (far right) that was signed by dozens of lawmakers. Signatures included those of not only Rep. Hall, but from left: Rep. Larry Bell, Rep. Susan Fisher, and Rep. Marvin Lucas.

Macon County Member John deVille Visits the White House

John deVille was one of several NEA civics educators who attended a White House Roundtable to discuss the confirmation process of the president’s nominee to the Supreme Court, Chief Judge Merrick Garland. The conversation was held during the anniversaries of the Brown v. Board of Education and Plessy v. Ferguson Supreme Court decisions, which highlight the need for a fully functioning court.

4 News Bulletin June 2016NCAENCAE Endorses in Additional Council of State Races

Linda ColemanLt. Governor

Wayne GoodwinInsurance

Commissioner

Beth WoodState Auditor

Charles MeekerLabor Commissioner

NCAE has endorsed Linda Coleman for Lieutenant Governor, Wayne Goodwin for Insurance Commissioner, Beth Wood for State Auditor, and Charles Meeker for Labor Commissioner. “We must have strong advocates for our students and pro-public education leaders in these critical statewide positions,” said NCAE President Rodney Ellis. “These candidates will be strong voices for our public schools and have dedicated themselves to making sure all students have an opportunity at a quality public education.” Linda Coleman has been a strong fighter for public schools in the N.C. House of Representatives, as a Wake County commissioner, and in Gov. Perdue’s administration as Director of the Office of State Personnel. Before entering into public service, she began her career as a classroom teacher. She has been outspoken about the resources our public schools, students, and educators need to be successful. Wayne Goodwin is a long-time friend and advocate for students, public schools, and educators. As a member of the

N.C. House of Representatives, he advocated for increasing educator pay to the national average and consistently voted for pro-public education efforts. As Insurance Commissioner, he is a strong advocate for working families and consumers by fighting for auto insurance premiums that are the lowest in the

U.S. and homeowner insurance premiums that are the lowest in the South. As State Auditor, Beth Wood has successfully performed unbiased and objective audits that identified wasteful spending and inefficiency. She has consistently reminded elected leaders and the citizens of North Carolina that those wasted dollars could be better invested in public school students, schools, and educators. Charles Meeker is NCAE’s recommendation for Commissioner of Labor. As the former mayor of Raleigh, Meeker was a strong ally for public

education and supported school bond issues. As Labor Commissioner, he will advocate for enhancing our public schools and sees better educational achievement as a means for better employment opportunities.

SHARE YOUR STORIES WITH US...

No one knows better than you, our members and local leaders, the incredible work being done each and every day in North Carolina’s public schools.You and your colleagues make Herculean efforts to not only educate students, but help them beyond the academic realm -- providing everything from school supplies to assisting with basic needs. Consider sharing those stories with the Communications Department. We feel it’s a great way to recognize the work you do on a statewide scale. You can access a form online to share your story at www.ncae.org/share-your-stories/. If you have questions, please contact ncaecom@ncae.org or call 1-800-663-7924, ext. 212.

NCAENews Bulletin June 2016 5

PROUD MOMENTS

CongratstoNCAEMemberMelodyChalmersforBeingNamedtheState’sPrincipaloftheYear

“This recognition is about students, staff members, and the parents who have helped us achieve success. It’s not about me,” was the statement made by E.E. Smith High School Principal Melody Chalmers, who was recently named the 2016 Wells Fargo North Carolina Principal of the Year. A member of the Cumberland County Association of Educators (CCAE),

Chalmers was described by State Superintendent June Atkinson at the announcement luncheon as an “innovative problem-solver who is committed to the academic and personal growth of each of her students and teachers. Her staff and students truly benefit from the nurturing learning environment she promotes.” Chalmers, who has been an educator for 18 years, has served her entire administrative career in the Cumberland County Schools system. She was the assistant principal at E.E. Smith High and Warrenwood Elementary from 2004-2009, principal at Cross Creek Early College High from 2009-2011, and has been serving as E.E. Smith’s principal for the past five years. Throughout her career, she has received numerous educational recognitions and certifications. She received a bachelor’s degree in English Education from North Carolina A & T State University, and earned a master’s in School Administration from Fayetteville State University. As the Wells Fargo Principal of the Year, Chalmers will serve as an advisor to the State Board of Education and N.C. Public School Forum Board of Directors, and as a member of the State Superintendent’s Principals’ Advisory Committee. She will also receive $3,000 for personal use, $3,000 for her school, professional development and resources supporting global awareness from Education First Tours, and a custom-made N.C. Principal of the Year signet ring and pendent from Jostens Inc.

SchoolBusROADeoNetsMemberaSpotontheTop10Driver’sList

John Gore, a bus driver for Jessie Mae Monroe Elementary School in Brunswick County, is one of the state’s top 10 bus drivers, recently competing in the state’s annual State School Bus ROADeo in Raleigh.

A total of 32 bus drivers participated in the final testing and driving competition to name the top bus driver in North Carolina. Thirty of those drivers, including Gore, advanced to the state finals by placing in the top 10 of a regional competition. Drivers’ skills were tested as they navigated a big yellow school bus through an obstacle course to master a diminishing clearance, backing, making a tight turn, and parallel parking. Participants competed for cash prizes that ranged from $500 to $50. The annual event is sponsored by the N.C. Pupil Transportation Association, the Division of Motor Vehicles, the N.C. Department of Public Instruction’s Transportation Services Section, and the Wake County Public School System’s Transportation Department.

8Named2016-17KenanFellows

NCAE salutes eight members who have been named 2016-17 Kenan Fellows. They are: Monica Ruffin of Warsaw Middle School in Duplin County; Durham County educators Lena Deskins of Holt Elementary Language Academy, Annie

Polashock of Northern High School, and Marjorie Light of J.D. Clement Early College High School; Michelle Hafey of Penderlea Elementary School in Pender County; and Wake County teachers Maria Eby of Hilburn Academy, Beth Campbell of Mt. Vernon Middle School, and Deborah Schen-Freedman of Wake Forest Middle School.

The Kenan Fellows Program for Curriculum and Leadership Development addresses the critical need for high-quality professional development for educators, and is the largest STEM-focused teacher leadership program in North Carolina. Approximately 50 outstanding K-12 teachers are selected annually for this year-long program. Key components are a three-week summer internship with a mentor in a research or applied STEM setting, and 80 hours of professional development that builds leadership capacity and promotes curricular design bridging STEM at work with STEM at school.

6 News Bulletin June 2016NCAESchools, District Recognized for 100% Participation in TWC Survey

Four public schools and one district will receive $1,000 cash awards as a result of their 100 percent participation rate in the 2016 N.C. Teacher Working Conditions Survey. More than 101,800 educators participated in the survey, and almost half of all schools (1,100) had 100 participation. From March 1 through April 1, school-based licensed educators in all 115 North Carolina school districts and 148 charter schools had an opportunity to share views regarding their working conditions on the seventh biennial survey. Wanting to recognize schools with a 100 percent participation rate, the N.C. Department of Public Instruction partnered with NCAE, the North Carolina Business Committee for Education, BB&T, California Casualty, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Duke Energy, and Lenovo to award the schools prizes and monetary incentives. DPI organized a live drawing to randomly select the four

schools and district. They are:• Allenbrook Elementary School in Charlotte/Mecklenburg• East Rutherford Middle School in Rutherford County• Creswell High School in Washington County• Edenton-Chowan Public Schools

•Plain View Primary in Bladen County received the “Nick of Time” award for being the final school in the state to reach a 100 percent response rate All schools that achieved 100 percent participation rate can be found here. The N.C. Teaching Working Conditions Survey is designed to gather a variety of information

from teachers, counselors, principals, and other administrators about topics such as the adequacy of school facilities and resources, time, empowerment, school leadership, community support, student conduct, professional development, mentoring and induction services, and student learning. The web-based survey is voluntary, anonymous, and confidential.

The end of the year is often an emotion-filled time. One common feeling is relief. We are all ready for a break. We are really tired of the daily grind and look forward to summer. Students count the days and then hours to the end of school. What students don’t know is that their teachers count the same way. A second emotion, at least for teachers, is regret that we didn’t get as much done as we’d hoped. So many things are left undone. Of course, we understand that we can’t cover everything, but still, no matter what we covered, we fear it is not enough. In addition, many teachers feel sadness at missing the students we have come to know, struggled with, and developed important relationships with. We hope they’ll go on to better things. I always liked doing activities to end the year that both were joyful and informative, things that helped me understand what students learned and how they felt now that the year was close to ending. Here are four of my favorites.1. Interviews – Interviews are a fun way to end the year on a high note. Divide the class into small groups and ask each group to think of a pre-determined number of questions (three is good) that they want to ask you about the past year. No limits are required. You can either answer or pass. Then you get to ask each student in the group the same number of questions about the past year – again, no limits. They also have the right to pass. Then go on to the next group.

2. Role Playing – Using small groups, ask the students to role-play you teaching a class. Be prepared for the role-play to be funny, yet highly accurate. Then you get to turn the tables and role-play any of the students’ behavior in class. Try for humor, not sarcasm.3. Gifts – Make a list of all of your students (if you teach over 200 students, you may not be able to do part one of this activity. Use your judgment on this issue). Think of a gift you would like to give each student. These are fantasy gifts, so there are no limits and nothing actually changes hands. Humor and warmth are two of the main criteria for deciding your gifts. Once you are done, ask each student to think of a gift he or she would like to give to a fellow student, and then give each student a chance to share. Caution: make sure that no gift is insulting or hurtful in any way.4. Drawings – Divide the class into small groups, and give each group a handful or box of crayons and a poster-size sheet of paper. Ask each group to draw an abstract picture of your class that includes every important element. No words are allowed. If you like, you can draw one also. Once finished, hang all the pictures on the wall and have a gallery walk. Then allow each group to explain what the elements in the pictures mean.

Dr. Richard Curwin, David Yellin College (Originally published May 21, 2015 © Edutopia.org; George Lucas Educational Foundation)

The End of the Year is Near!4 Fun Ways to Leave

News Bulletin June 2016 7NCAEFive Tips for Recharging Your Batteries This Summer

During the school year, it’s hard to find time for daily exercise and other healthy activities that contribute to your physical and mental well-being. Instead, many teachers and education support professionals find the summer months a good time to renew and refresh. Take the time you need this summer to focus on your health. Here are a few ideas:

Schedule Your Annual Health Maintenance – This preventive checkup will help identify high-risk behaviors and screen for

chronic and/or life threatening diseases. All State Health Plans include an annual preventive care checkup with an in-network provider at no cost to the member. While you’re scheduling your checkup, also schedule dental and vision exams.

Increase Physical Activity If Possible – For important health benefits, adults need at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensive aerobic

activity every week and muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days a week that work all major muscle groups. It’s best to talk with your health care provider before you begin a physical activity routine. Ask your doctor about what’s appropriate for you.

Get Adequate Sleep – Insufficient sleep is linked to the development and management of a number of chronic disease and

conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and depression. The summer months can provide the time you need to re-establish good sleep habits.

Eat Healthfully – Summer may provide you with the time you need to prepare and eat healthy meals. You also might take some time

to make a plan for maintaining healthy eating choices when school is back in session this fall.

Take a Few Deep Breaths – Sign up for a yoga class. Connect with a friend. These are simple ideas to help you manage stress. High levels of stress over

time can lead to serious health problems, so find ways to effectively manage stress now – and when school resumes.

Reprinted from MEA Voice (Michigan Education Association).

NEA Convention Delegates Are Washington, D.C. Bound!

In a little less than a month, North Carolina delegates will head to Washington, D.C. to participate in the 2016 NEA Meeting and Representative Assembly. The meeting, which will be held from June 27-July 7, is the largest deliberative body in the world, and members are elected to attend either via state or local elections. The convention includes many pre-convention activities as well as official business sessions. Similar to the format of the NCAE Convention, delegates will debate and vote on new business items, amendments, and resolutions. Whether you are a first-time delegate or a veteran, there will be lots of exciting things to do, inspiring messages from a host of special guests, networking opportunities, and business to complete. For more information, or if you just want to know what will be taking place over the course of the RA, click here.

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News Bulletin June 20168 NCAE

Positions stated in this publication do not necessarily reflect the official position of NCAE unless so identified. The NCAE News Bulletin, a journal of the Association, is published by the North Carolina Association of Educators, 700 S.Salisbury St., Post Office Box Box 27347, Raleigh, NC 27611, 1-800-662-7924.

Linda Powell-Jones, Editor/Designer

www.ncae.org

N C A E N E W S B U L L E T I N Follow NCAE events and activities on:

9NCAENews Bulletin June 2016

DEALS for NEA Members

2 0 1 6Dates to Remember

June

7th Primary Election12th Multicultural American Child Day Race Unity Day14th Flag Day World Day Against Child Labor15th NCAE Lobby Day, Raleigh20th Summer Solstice

Child Vision Awareness MonthStudent Safety Month

July

2nd-7th NEA Convention and Representative Assembly,Washington, D.C.4th Independence Day4th-8th Summer Break (NCAE Offices Closed)19th-21st NCAE Summer Leadership Conference, NCAE Center26th-29th Instructional Leadership Institute, NCAE Center30th National Support Public Education Day Paperback Book Day

National Make a Difference to Children Month

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“Change is the end result of all true learning.” Leo Buscaglia

Click & Save “Buy-Lights” for June

Time to celebrate Dads and Grads! NEA Click & Save, the online discount buying service for NEA members, highlights select retailers and merchants each month. Check out these featured “Buy-Lights” for June.

• Diamondback Bicycles – Get great prices on all types of bicycles for sport and pleasure; free shipping on all orders.

• Sports Authority – Enjoy big discounts on sporting goods; free shipping on orders of $49 or more.

• Things Remembered – Savings on personalized gifts to celebrate life’s moments.

• Shari’s Berries – Enjoy the original gourmet dipped strawberries; special savings on orders of $39 or more.

• Brooks Brothers – Exclusive savings on Brooks Brothers corporate wear-to-work program, on wardrobe essentials, and new arrivals.

• NEA MB Entertainment Store – Exclusive member pricing on world-class performances and entertainment, including Broadway shows, movie tickets, and deals at SeaWorld, Six Flags, Universal Studios, and LEGOLAND.

• NEA MB Electronics Store – Get member pricing and earn WOW Points on merchandise from name brands like Panasonic, Samsung, Dell, and Canon.

Like to Save on Travel? Raise Your Hand!

Hertz values the hard work and dedication of educators and education support professionals! NEA members save up to 25 percent off car rentals all year from Hertz

plus can enjoy combinable bonus offers for extra savings! Reserve your Hertz car rental at www.neamb.com/hertz or by calling 800-654-3131 and referencing CDP #50655. See offers for complete details, terms, and conditions.