Revenue for schools: Sales-tax hike not right solution

The Tribune Editorial Board wrote in their Opinion Page today:
"A proposal to shift education funding from current school property-tax levies to a higher state sales tax is brewing in the Legislature's Revenue and Taxation Interim Committee. While the intention is comendable-to more evenly spread education costs among Utah's school districts-its potential for unintended consequences is too great."

Go to www.sltrib.com to read the entire editorial.

We want to wish Marlene Irons, WEA President our sympathies with the passing of her mom.

Rick

Dino Park Party a Big Success

Hundreds of Ogden and Weber teachers, employees and kids braved a frigid October evening and enjoyed a truly spooktacular evening at the Eccles Dinosaur Park party sponsored by Horace Mann Insurance. Many of the kids (and some parents) came in costume and enjoyed finding our OEA and WEA leaders for treats. We actually had to buy more candy after seeing the big turnout. Thanks to all who participated and helped out. The park is beautifully decorated and truly spooky. Thanks again to the staff at the park for all of their help.

Thanks again.
Rick

Equalized Education Funding

Read Elizabeth Stuart's entire article about equalization of education funding at www.deseretnews.com

Rick

Dress Warmly for Monday's Dino Park Party

I guess our nice fall is moving away and winter is around the corner. We are looking forward to seeing you all and your guests on Monday, October 25th at the Eccles Dinosaur Park for our annual party. We will open at 6 and finish at 8. dress the kids warmly and we will have treats for the kids. The concessions will be open (hot cocoa sounds good), but we will not be serving dinner. Horace Mann is our sponsor and is paying for your admission into the park. Please bring your flyer and HM info filled in or grab one at our table at the gate. See you there...brrrrrr. The Halloween decorations are spooktacular... Rick

Dress Warmly for Monday'

Good Education Requires Right to Fire Poor Teachers

Read Molly Farmer's entire article about the panel (included UEA's President Gallagher-Fishbaugh) that screened "Waiting for Superman" at www.deseretnews.com

UEA Convention Speaker: Collaboration leads to school success

Author Alan Blankstein ("Failure is not an option: six principles that guide student achievement in high performing schools") delivered the keynote address about collaboration at the UEA's annual convention last Friday. Blankstein is also the president and founder of the HOPE (harnessing Optimism Potential through Education) nonprofit organization that works with schools to develop successful leadership teams and school cultures.

Rick