Utah Hopes to Cash in on Federal Money for Schools

Lisa Schencker (http://www.sltrib.com/) writes about Utah's chances to access a possible $400 Million dollars of Federal "Race to the Top" stimulus money offered to states who are at the cutting edge of reform. UEA's president, Kim Campbell, stated, "We support any effort for additional money to Utah's underfunded educational system. We hope this grant process doesn't repeat the mistakes of NCLB with a reliance on a single test score." Two of the more controversial issues are teacher evaluations that use test scores as part of the criteria and the encouragment of more charter schools. Read the entire article for more info.

Reminder: Dinosaur Park Party Tonight, 6 pm.

Rick

NEA Foundation offers grants

Go to www.neafoundation.org to see available grants for your teaching. Also contact Kate Bideaux at bideauxk@ogdensd.org for grant writing tips.

Retirees Facing a $6.5 Billion Shortfall

The Utah State Legislature heard testimony yesterday, that discussed the dramatic loss in the retirement system as a result of last year's financial collapse. The legislature might move to increase the amount that employees and employers pay into the fund. Read Lisa Riley Roche's article at www.deseretnews.com

Don't forget the Dinosaur Park Party tomorrow night, Friday, Sept. 11 at 6 pm.

Rick

Dinosaur Park Party Friday, Sept. 11 6-8pm

Don't forget the Dinosaur Park Party Friday for members and families. Starts at 6 pm. Bring your flyer for entrance to the park and dinner. See you there.

Use your membership card to access savings

Log in to www.utea.org with your membership card and discover everything from fast food to fine dining restaurants near you. You can fill up on savings at places like: Papa Johns, Einstein Bros. Bagels, Johnny Rockets and Hot Dog on a stick.

Rick

Invitation to all members and new teachers

Please join us at the Eccles Dinosaur Park, Friday, Sept. 11 at 6 pm for our annual OEA/WEA Membership Appreciation Party. Please bring your families and join us for a night of fun and food. Your flyer with Horace Mann info is your ticket in (we will have extra at the door if your lose or forget your flyer). Hamburgers, chips, drinks and creamies will be served. We appreciate our sponsor, Horace Mann, for their support.

See you there. Rick

Gov. Herbert Chooses Budget Efficiency Commission

Read in the Deseret News (http://www.deseretnews.com/) "New Panel to examine budget cuts", about Governor Herbert's choice for a budget efficiency commission. The commission will be headed by former Gov. Bangerter with help from Nolan Karras, Fraser Bullock and Charlie Johnson. The commission will have about 10 members and will study efficiency in state government.

Rick