This is a new section to our website. One of the ways of recovering our dues from the State and National level is the sponsorship of our members at local, state and national conferences. Here is where those members who are elected, volunteered or chosen to attend will report on what they learned and hopefully impart some of the knowledge they received. If you are interested in attending any of these future events, please email my office at MatSuCEA@gmail.com
"2024 NEA-Alaska Delegate Assembly
From your President, Rick Morgan.
"Turns out that bargaining the largest classified contract in the state while the teachers were imposed upon attracted some attention. Winning the Outstanding Local Award for 2024 was a surprise to yours truly, but after thinking about it for a minute, totally understandable. Because I represent the best classified employees in the State! And add to that the 2024 NEA-Alaska ESP of the year is our own Mandy Swarthout! And add to that our own CEA Board Member at Large, Chad Swarthout wrote an NBI for a $100,000 solely for membership retention and recruitment!! And it passed! We are going to be seeing the affects of that grant for the next year and see our union grow as a result. This is why attendance is so crucial. What we do at the Delegate Assembly has REAL impact on not only our local, but statewide. That was worth the price of admission and brings our dues back into the valley! Our members are becoming leaders across the state. And the networking we did at the DA is going to help other locals benefit their members! What's next? Membership blitz starts February 12th, we will be talking to new employees across the district, introducing them to CEA and we will hopefully sign every one of them up! Thank you to our entire team that went to Anchorage, hard work in committee and late night working till 11pm on Saturday earned dividends for our members. And you actually saw your President on the dance floor. lol"
From Melissa Gregory
"In January I was able to attend the 68 th Annual Delegate Assembly, DA for short. This is my second DA and I was elected to go by my peers in the MatsuCEA. DA is a place where educators gather and work collectively on New Business Items. Each year NBI’s
are written, some new and some not, in the hopes that they will get passed. Not all do. One of the best parts of DA involve the people. It’s about meeting new people. Working with like-minded people. It’s about collaborating with your peers across the state of
Alaska to pass NBI’s that matter the most to us. It’s about making the change we want to see in Education.
The process of New Business Items begins with someone writing an NBI that makes a difference for them. Then those NBI’s are given a committee where they belong in. The NBI gets worked on in that committee and they decide where to make changes or not.
The committee is also the first place where an NBI can pass on to the DA Floor or where it fails and gets left behind. If it passes, there is one final vote before it is adopted. My committee of choice this year was Communications, our chair Cory Hughes. There were a lot of NBI’s we went through fixing and passing or vetoing.
NBI 24-12: Highlighting Native American and Alaska Native Educators. Specifically meaning that NEA will highlight Native Americans or Alaska Natives from at least two regions in the state of Alaska during the month of November Aktivist. This was made to reflect our states Heritage and History. This NBI passed.
NBI 24-06: Support for Jobs Act. This NBI was written so that the NEA-Alaska President shall send a letter to its members urging support for the Alaska Minimum Labor Standards ballot Initiative. This NBI is created to highlight the merits of increasing Alaska’s Minimum Wage, provide workers with paid sick leave, and protects workers from practices that violate their constitutional rights. This NBI also passed.
These were just a couple that stood out to me. There were many that were important. If I were to list them all we would be here a while. If you ever get the chance to, I recommend applying for a position at the next DA. They are held every January, usually beginning Thursday Night and ending Saturday Night or even Sunday Morning. The end date is all dependent on how many NBI’s are passed in committees and how long each are worked on before they pass or fail. This is an amazing experience, one I hope I get the privilege to attend again. Thank you all for electing me to attend the 68th Annual Delegate Assembly. I look forward to applying next year.
Melissa Gregory"
From Robert Parrish
"This year's Delegate Assembly was a very light spending year. Only around $140,000 came up in the new spending bills. The BSA rally was an great idea. A lot of local support and a huge amount of support from the DA. The temperature was a little brisk with temperatures in the low teens to single digits and of course a light Anchorage breeze to help. We had a large number of new delegates this year. Mat-Su CEA also won for the Best Local Association. We also had Mandy Swarthout take the ESP of the year award."
From Arin Tampke
"One of the things I love about DA is the opportunities to meet new people and reconnect with educators I have met in the past. Collaborating with educators from various locations and fields can help put the issues we are seeing on a local scale into perspective. This also is a wonderful opportunity to discuss our local issues and get a fresh point of view on ways we can address shortcomings. This year had a bit of a schedule change as we did a Red for Ed rally in downtown Anchorage to bring awareness to the needs of students and educators by calling for a raise to the BSA.
In the Human Rights Committee this year we only had a few New Business Items we brought to the floor. The one that I thought was worth highlighting was the one to send two delegates from each region to the Alaska Federation of Natives conference. While those who attend would only be doing so as observers and could not vote on issues during the conference, I believe this is an important opportunity for members and delegates to learn about the Stewarts of our lands and better appreciate their cultures.
We also brought forward belief statements so it can be known that NEA-Alaska supports its union members and opposes discrimination against all minority communities. By having these belief statements, we can show solidarity for all members, and they can take pride in being part of a union that is an advocate for change."
From Sherie' LaRue
"I was fortunate enough to attend the Delegate Assembly this past weekend and it was amazing! It’s so great to see certified and classified staff from all over the state come together and work on what they want our union to do for us. Our voices are heard and we get to decide what we think as a whole body what is important to us and the students we teach. We get to tell NEA Alaska what they should be lobbying for at the legislature level. To watch the whole process unfold is so fun to witness and you learn so much. I would definitely recommend to any member to go and attend. Get your voice heard and represent your union. Together we can make a difference!"
From Toni Smith.
"The 68th NEA-Alaska Delegate Assembly in Anchorage was the place to be this year. Seven Regions and retired came as one to talk about the direction our union should go. Eight committees ranging from Human and Civil Rights to Building Local Capacity got together to write some great New Business Items (NBI) that our union will be working on this year. Fixing our broke retirement system and education funding were at the top of the list this year. Lots of work was done, but it was also a time to meet and talk to fellow members. It was a great reminder that you are not alone in the daily struggles you face at your schools. If you want your voice heard about the direction you think the union should head this is the place to be."
From Heather Milstead.
"I just attended my second DA. Last year was full of learning what DA is, does, etc. This year I was able to participate on a different level. (I fully participated both years.) Being able to come together, not just with CEA and MSEA but with our peers from all around the state provides invaluable insight into the issues that plague our state. The ability to converse both the positives and negatives shows us we are not alone. I was part of the ESP committee and thought it was wonderful that there were teachers on the committee. Teachers committed to helping ESPs feel appreciated, seen, and heard. I love the ability to come together as *educators* and not teacher vs ESP and help shape the education profession in Alaska."
From Ginny Allen.
"Rick has had many brilliant, and strategic moves during his time as our president. So when he asked me to be part of the 68th Annual Delegate Assembly, I was reluctant, but ultimately agreed with his request... and honestly, was intrigued about being part of his bigger plan.
I have heard conversations about DA, and how things worked. The process. The time and energy people put in.The excitement leading up to the event...and even rumors about how "fun" it was. Though I did not completely understand what they were explaining (or expecting from me), I dutifully agreed to be part of the bigger picture.
NEA Alaska and CEA are both beautifully organized, so checking in was a breeze.
I dropped my luggage in my hotel room and then made my way back downstairs to the clearly labeled NEA tables. There was so much energy from excited participants that I could almost see electricity emanating off their bodies. The Steering & Rules team handed me my 2024 Delegate Notebook and my credentials. I got a very special white ribbon on my lanyard that labeled me as a New Delegate. A very effective tool used in order for fellow Delegates to identify me and my very new experience.
Included with my 2024 Delegate Notebook was the weekend agenda.
First up, New Delegate Orientation. Again, more people explaining to me the series of events, what to expect, how things worked, and how "fun" (?) this was about to be. I was still confused. But, OK. I'm still open to seeing where this will lead...Then we were excused for dinner before starting General Session 1. In the Ballroom we were seated by region. I am proud to say that Mat-Su was heavily represented!
During General Session 1 we were given a very warm welcome that included a beautiful opening blessing by local Alaskan indigenous peoples and our NEA Alaska President. President Klaymeyer went over rules and expectations. We were then excused to our first caucus meeting of the event.
Region 7 was a delightful mix of certified teachers, librarians, retired teachers, para professionals, support staff, and related services. Every position in the Mat-Su seemed to be represented. During this session we went over a New Business Item (NBI) and our opinions about it. At this point, I still haven't wrapped my head around what exactly was happening, and we were excused for the night and reminded that breakfast started at 6am.
Before arriving to DA we were assigned to committees depending on your own personal interest. I signed up for Building Local Engagement/Member Engagement. Something I thought I'd fall naturally into. Here we went over NBIs that members had previously filed and where we had to vote on whether or not it was worthy enough to bring to the floor for NEA-Alaska to vote on. This is the point where I started to understand what was happening....kinda. Then off to lunch.
General Session 2. This was a special night for some very accomplished union members to be recognized. It felt so good to share in their excitement and joy! This sparked some very powerful emotions within the room. I wish the recipients could hear the quiet cheers and encouraging words from the crowd. All recipients left the podium beaming. It was amazing. We have some very talented and driven members doing some very powerful and meaningful accomplishments! In natural order, session 2 was over and all members were invited to the Awards Reception and Social Event.
If it is one thing educators do well, it's celebrate. We LOVE to network, share, have fun, and apparently, dance. Who knew?! I guess we all have that inner Broadway performer just waiting to come out, once a year. I loved it, you guys were so fun!
Saturday Morning we all had breakfast before heading to our Caucus Meeting by region. Members gave an update about what was discussed and decided in the previous days committee meetings. Here is where we also got to hear about the broad range of NBIs that were about to be brought to the floor later in the day, during General Session 3.
The start of General Session 3 we were presented with a very well put together informative mini documentary about Alaskans indigenous students and their families. It was very difficult to watch, but it was needed. There were many tears shed in the audience. After the emotional video, President Klaymeyer gave a passionate speech about raising the state BSA, and the rally to be held in Town Square Park. I loved how even in the cold weather, Alaskan educators came together to rally for something so SO important to our staff and students. The rally had local government representatives and many regions of Alaska present as well as local media.
Late Saturday afternoon started General Session 4 with committee reports and Floor Action. We worked for a few hours before being excused table by table to gather your meal from the buffet for a working dinner. Here is where I started to fully grasp why everyone refers to this event as so "fun". I love a good healthy debate, and I especially love being part of something that makes a difference that directly impacts my local community. I love long standing traditions and rules, and I loved how there was even a person there who's sole purpose was to make sure that we were following the rules to a T. This person actually turned out to be one of my new favorite people I met!
We had 35 pages of NBIs. 67 opportunities to have your voice heard. 67 opportunities to have your named tied to something that could change the course of events happening all around you.
I heard so much passion in Delegates voices while their NBI was on the floor. I heard the passion in Delegates voices while they argued either for or against. This was the FUN. Being part of something that is bigger than yourself is FUN. It is also important. It is important to bring forward new ideas and policies and practices that make public education safe, and effective. Why wouldn't you want to be part of something like that?
So, if you are approached by a fellow co-worker (or Rick) to participate in next years DA, or another union event, I hope you give it some thought. But not just a moment of thought, but an actual consideration, There are so many ways to get involved in our Local....and the beauty of it is, is that you get to be part of a larger scope. You can do good things. You can make a difference. You can be informed. You can be part of the process.
During my drive home, I told my friend that being part of this event was like being part of Abbot and Costello "Who's On First"
I didn't quite understand what was happening until I was in the belly of the beast, so to speak.
Thank you Rick for the gentle nudge to do more things, and to do big things. I can't wait to see what's next!"
From Mandy Swarthout
"I got to attend our 68th NEA Delagate Assembly this year and it was amazing! As the Membership chair I’m proud to say there are great things coming on the horizon. I see changes in how we will be able to reach and recruit potential members and well as strengthening our bond with current members. Having a few NBI’s paving our way to continue the great work our team is doing. Several NBIs helping the Classified Educators be able to understand and truly help our sped student more adequately. We will be taking action and making not only our local but state stronger together in solidarity we fight and when we fight we WIN.
Speaking of winning we as a local winning the local of the year award will only insure our growth together. I look forward to representing you our members of CEA the foreseeable future"
From your President, Rick Morgan.
"Turns out that bargaining the largest classified contract in the state while the teachers were imposed upon attracted some attention. Winning the Outstanding Local Award for 2024 was a surprise to yours truly, but after thinking about it for a minute, totally understandable. Because I represent the best classified employees in the State! And add to that the 2024 NEA-Alaska ESP of the year is our own Mandy Swarthout! And add to that our own CEA Board Member at Large, Chad Swarthout wrote an NBI for a $100,000 solely for membership retention and recruitment!! And it passed! We are going to be seeing the affects of that grant for the next year and see our union grow as a result. This is why attendance is so crucial. What we do at the Delegate Assembly has REAL impact on not only our local, but statewide. That was worth the price of admission and brings our dues back into the valley! Our members are becoming leaders across the state. And the networking we did at the DA is going to help other locals benefit their members! What's next? Membership blitz starts February 12th, we will be talking to new employees across the district, introducing them to CEA and we will hopefully sign every one of them up! Thank you to our entire team that went to Anchorage, hard work in committee and late night working till 11pm on Saturday earned dividends for our members. And you actually saw your President on the dance floor. lol"
From Melissa Gregory
"In January I was able to attend the 68 th Annual Delegate Assembly, DA for short. This is my second DA and I was elected to go by my peers in the MatsuCEA. DA is a place where educators gather and work collectively on New Business Items. Each year NBI’s
are written, some new and some not, in the hopes that they will get passed. Not all do. One of the best parts of DA involve the people. It’s about meeting new people. Working with like-minded people. It’s about collaborating with your peers across the state of
Alaska to pass NBI’s that matter the most to us. It’s about making the change we want to see in Education.
The process of New Business Items begins with someone writing an NBI that makes a difference for them. Then those NBI’s are given a committee where they belong in. The NBI gets worked on in that committee and they decide where to make changes or not.
The committee is also the first place where an NBI can pass on to the DA Floor or where it fails and gets left behind. If it passes, there is one final vote before it is adopted. My committee of choice this year was Communications, our chair Cory Hughes. There were a lot of NBI’s we went through fixing and passing or vetoing.
NBI 24-12: Highlighting Native American and Alaska Native Educators. Specifically meaning that NEA will highlight Native Americans or Alaska Natives from at least two regions in the state of Alaska during the month of November Aktivist. This was made to reflect our states Heritage and History. This NBI passed.
NBI 24-06: Support for Jobs Act. This NBI was written so that the NEA-Alaska President shall send a letter to its members urging support for the Alaska Minimum Labor Standards ballot Initiative. This NBI is created to highlight the merits of increasing Alaska’s Minimum Wage, provide workers with paid sick leave, and protects workers from practices that violate their constitutional rights. This NBI also passed.
These were just a couple that stood out to me. There were many that were important. If I were to list them all we would be here a while. If you ever get the chance to, I recommend applying for a position at the next DA. They are held every January, usually beginning Thursday Night and ending Saturday Night or even Sunday Morning. The end date is all dependent on how many NBI’s are passed in committees and how long each are worked on before they pass or fail. This is an amazing experience, one I hope I get the privilege to attend again. Thank you all for electing me to attend the 68th Annual Delegate Assembly. I look forward to applying next year.
Melissa Gregory"
From Robert Parrish
"This year's Delegate Assembly was a very light spending year. Only around $140,000 came up in the new spending bills. The BSA rally was an great idea. A lot of local support and a huge amount of support from the DA. The temperature was a little brisk with temperatures in the low teens to single digits and of course a light Anchorage breeze to help. We had a large number of new delegates this year. Mat-Su CEA also won for the Best Local Association. We also had Mandy Swarthout take the ESP of the year award."
From Arin Tampke
"One of the things I love about DA is the opportunities to meet new people and reconnect with educators I have met in the past. Collaborating with educators from various locations and fields can help put the issues we are seeing on a local scale into perspective. This also is a wonderful opportunity to discuss our local issues and get a fresh point of view on ways we can address shortcomings. This year had a bit of a schedule change as we did a Red for Ed rally in downtown Anchorage to bring awareness to the needs of students and educators by calling for a raise to the BSA.
In the Human Rights Committee this year we only had a few New Business Items we brought to the floor. The one that I thought was worth highlighting was the one to send two delegates from each region to the Alaska Federation of Natives conference. While those who attend would only be doing so as observers and could not vote on issues during the conference, I believe this is an important opportunity for members and delegates to learn about the Stewarts of our lands and better appreciate their cultures.
We also brought forward belief statements so it can be known that NEA-Alaska supports its union members and opposes discrimination against all minority communities. By having these belief statements, we can show solidarity for all members, and they can take pride in being part of a union that is an advocate for change."
From Sherie' LaRue
"I was fortunate enough to attend the Delegate Assembly this past weekend and it was amazing! It’s so great to see certified and classified staff from all over the state come together and work on what they want our union to do for us. Our voices are heard and we get to decide what we think as a whole body what is important to us and the students we teach. We get to tell NEA Alaska what they should be lobbying for at the legislature level. To watch the whole process unfold is so fun to witness and you learn so much. I would definitely recommend to any member to go and attend. Get your voice heard and represent your union. Together we can make a difference!"
From Toni Smith.
"The 68th NEA-Alaska Delegate Assembly in Anchorage was the place to be this year. Seven Regions and retired came as one to talk about the direction our union should go. Eight committees ranging from Human and Civil Rights to Building Local Capacity got together to write some great New Business Items (NBI) that our union will be working on this year. Fixing our broke retirement system and education funding were at the top of the list this year. Lots of work was done, but it was also a time to meet and talk to fellow members. It was a great reminder that you are not alone in the daily struggles you face at your schools. If you want your voice heard about the direction you think the union should head this is the place to be."
From Heather Milstead.
"I just attended my second DA. Last year was full of learning what DA is, does, etc. This year I was able to participate on a different level. (I fully participated both years.) Being able to come together, not just with CEA and MSEA but with our peers from all around the state provides invaluable insight into the issues that plague our state. The ability to converse both the positives and negatives shows us we are not alone. I was part of the ESP committee and thought it was wonderful that there were teachers on the committee. Teachers committed to helping ESPs feel appreciated, seen, and heard. I love the ability to come together as *educators* and not teacher vs ESP and help shape the education profession in Alaska."
From Ginny Allen.
"Rick has had many brilliant, and strategic moves during his time as our president. So when he asked me to be part of the 68th Annual Delegate Assembly, I was reluctant, but ultimately agreed with his request... and honestly, was intrigued about being part of his bigger plan.
I have heard conversations about DA, and how things worked. The process. The time and energy people put in.The excitement leading up to the event...and even rumors about how "fun" it was. Though I did not completely understand what they were explaining (or expecting from me), I dutifully agreed to be part of the bigger picture.
NEA Alaska and CEA are both beautifully organized, so checking in was a breeze.
I dropped my luggage in my hotel room and then made my way back downstairs to the clearly labeled NEA tables. There was so much energy from excited participants that I could almost see electricity emanating off their bodies. The Steering & Rules team handed me my 2024 Delegate Notebook and my credentials. I got a very special white ribbon on my lanyard that labeled me as a New Delegate. A very effective tool used in order for fellow Delegates to identify me and my very new experience.
Included with my 2024 Delegate Notebook was the weekend agenda.
First up, New Delegate Orientation. Again, more people explaining to me the series of events, what to expect, how things worked, and how "fun" (?) this was about to be. I was still confused. But, OK. I'm still open to seeing where this will lead...Then we were excused for dinner before starting General Session 1. In the Ballroom we were seated by region. I am proud to say that Mat-Su was heavily represented!
During General Session 1 we were given a very warm welcome that included a beautiful opening blessing by local Alaskan indigenous peoples and our NEA Alaska President. President Klaymeyer went over rules and expectations. We were then excused to our first caucus meeting of the event.
Region 7 was a delightful mix of certified teachers, librarians, retired teachers, para professionals, support staff, and related services. Every position in the Mat-Su seemed to be represented. During this session we went over a New Business Item (NBI) and our opinions about it. At this point, I still haven't wrapped my head around what exactly was happening, and we were excused for the night and reminded that breakfast started at 6am.
Before arriving to DA we were assigned to committees depending on your own personal interest. I signed up for Building Local Engagement/Member Engagement. Something I thought I'd fall naturally into. Here we went over NBIs that members had previously filed and where we had to vote on whether or not it was worthy enough to bring to the floor for NEA-Alaska to vote on. This is the point where I started to understand what was happening....kinda. Then off to lunch.
General Session 2. This was a special night for some very accomplished union members to be recognized. It felt so good to share in their excitement and joy! This sparked some very powerful emotions within the room. I wish the recipients could hear the quiet cheers and encouraging words from the crowd. All recipients left the podium beaming. It was amazing. We have some very talented and driven members doing some very powerful and meaningful accomplishments! In natural order, session 2 was over and all members were invited to the Awards Reception and Social Event.
If it is one thing educators do well, it's celebrate. We LOVE to network, share, have fun, and apparently, dance. Who knew?! I guess we all have that inner Broadway performer just waiting to come out, once a year. I loved it, you guys were so fun!
Saturday Morning we all had breakfast before heading to our Caucus Meeting by region. Members gave an update about what was discussed and decided in the previous days committee meetings. Here is where we also got to hear about the broad range of NBIs that were about to be brought to the floor later in the day, during General Session 3.
The start of General Session 3 we were presented with a very well put together informative mini documentary about Alaskans indigenous students and their families. It was very difficult to watch, but it was needed. There were many tears shed in the audience. After the emotional video, President Klaymeyer gave a passionate speech about raising the state BSA, and the rally to be held in Town Square Park. I loved how even in the cold weather, Alaskan educators came together to rally for something so SO important to our staff and students. The rally had local government representatives and many regions of Alaska present as well as local media.
Late Saturday afternoon started General Session 4 with committee reports and Floor Action. We worked for a few hours before being excused table by table to gather your meal from the buffet for a working dinner. Here is where I started to fully grasp why everyone refers to this event as so "fun". I love a good healthy debate, and I especially love being part of something that makes a difference that directly impacts my local community. I love long standing traditions and rules, and I loved how there was even a person there who's sole purpose was to make sure that we were following the rules to a T. This person actually turned out to be one of my new favorite people I met!
We had 35 pages of NBIs. 67 opportunities to have your voice heard. 67 opportunities to have your named tied to something that could change the course of events happening all around you.
I heard so much passion in Delegates voices while their NBI was on the floor. I heard the passion in Delegates voices while they argued either for or against. This was the FUN. Being part of something that is bigger than yourself is FUN. It is also important. It is important to bring forward new ideas and policies and practices that make public education safe, and effective. Why wouldn't you want to be part of something like that?
So, if you are approached by a fellow co-worker (or Rick) to participate in next years DA, or another union event, I hope you give it some thought. But not just a moment of thought, but an actual consideration, There are so many ways to get involved in our Local....and the beauty of it is, is that you get to be part of a larger scope. You can do good things. You can make a difference. You can be informed. You can be part of the process.
During my drive home, I told my friend that being part of this event was like being part of Abbot and Costello "Who's On First"
I didn't quite understand what was happening until I was in the belly of the beast, so to speak.
Thank you Rick for the gentle nudge to do more things, and to do big things. I can't wait to see what's next!"
From Mandy Swarthout
"I got to attend our 68th NEA Delagate Assembly this year and it was amazing! As the Membership chair I’m proud to say there are great things coming on the horizon. I see changes in how we will be able to reach and recruit potential members and well as strengthening our bond with current members. Having a few NBI’s paving our way to continue the great work our team is doing. Several NBIs helping the Classified Educators be able to understand and truly help our sped student more adequately. We will be taking action and making not only our local but state stronger together in solidarity we fight and when we fight we WIN.
Speaking of winning we as a local winning the local of the year award will only insure our growth together. I look forward to representing you our members of CEA the foreseeable future"
The 2023 ESP Conference in Seattle, WA is a must go for all ESP’s! The content was very relatable, fresh, and applicable to Alaska as a state and our students.
I learned as a Union and district we have the resources for grants and really need to utilize those MORE!
I’d like our Union and district to send out interviews, stories, a day on the life of an ESP in our monthly newsletters like another state is doing to raise awareness of our positions.
We are not here because of teachers or any other position, we as ESP’s are here because our support to the students daily education and school life is critical and irreplaceable.
The power of unity is paramount!
Thank You,
Kendra Miner
I learned as a Union and district we have the resources for grants and really need to utilize those MORE!
I’d like our Union and district to send out interviews, stories, a day on the life of an ESP in our monthly newsletters like another state is doing to raise awareness of our positions.
We are not here because of teachers or any other position, we as ESP’s are here because our support to the students daily education and school life is critical and irreplaceable.
The power of unity is paramount!
Thank You,
Kendra Miner
The ESP Conference of 2023 was a great experience, one I would definitely love to do again. And even the pre-conference as well. Most classes were not long enough. The time slots needed to be longer, with a mini break in-between to stretch legs and get some water. The three classes I went to included, Culturally Responsive and Trauma Sensitive, Taking a Stand: Creating Safer Schools, Prioritizing Self Care, and Promoting School Safety and Crisis Preparedness.
In Culturally Responsive and Trauma Sensitive, we learned how to assess situations and different actions we could take to help students. Like if a student is late to class ask them if they are okay or pull them aside later to make sure everything is okay, instead of reminding them to be on time and talking with them in front of the entire class.
Taking a stand: Creating Safer Schools for LGBTQ+. This was pretty self-explanatory, they apologized for barely making it into the presentation with all of the comments they had, and the conversations when they opened it up to commentary on the 1 of 4 scenarios. Respect people’s pronouns, and if you mess up apologize and correct yourself.
Prioritizing Self Care we learned ways to help us with our health while at work. Like taking breaks, taking our lunch and going for walks around the building. Reminding others that this is our non-scheduled work time and to come back in however many minutes to help them. And to just keep reminding them until they respect our boundaries.
Promoting Safety and Crisis Preparedness taught us ways to deescalate students with bad days. We learned what to do in differences between natural disaster preparedness and manmade disaster preparedness. What we can to do be better prepared. How we can make everyone feel safe at school.
I do hope in the future they give the presenter’s longer times in the classes to get through all of the presentation, instead of just getting through 1/4 or 1/2 of the material. I think we would have benefitted more from each class had we the opportunity to hear the endings instead of just the setting up. Most classes got through what the problems are versus how we can help solve them together. The food wasn’t the best, specifically the breakfast, the soupy eggs were not it. All in all the conference was pretty great. I wish I got to go to the preconference. I heard the classes were longer and more information. And I think I would have benefited well with it. I can’t
wait to see the classes they will offer next year. Thank you for the wonderful opportunity to attend the ESP Conference and the Delegate Assembly.
Melissa Gregory
In Culturally Responsive and Trauma Sensitive, we learned how to assess situations and different actions we could take to help students. Like if a student is late to class ask them if they are okay or pull them aside later to make sure everything is okay, instead of reminding them to be on time and talking with them in front of the entire class.
Taking a stand: Creating Safer Schools for LGBTQ+. This was pretty self-explanatory, they apologized for barely making it into the presentation with all of the comments they had, and the conversations when they opened it up to commentary on the 1 of 4 scenarios. Respect people’s pronouns, and if you mess up apologize and correct yourself.
Prioritizing Self Care we learned ways to help us with our health while at work. Like taking breaks, taking our lunch and going for walks around the building. Reminding others that this is our non-scheduled work time and to come back in however many minutes to help them. And to just keep reminding them until they respect our boundaries.
Promoting Safety and Crisis Preparedness taught us ways to deescalate students with bad days. We learned what to do in differences between natural disaster preparedness and manmade disaster preparedness. What we can to do be better prepared. How we can make everyone feel safe at school.
I do hope in the future they give the presenter’s longer times in the classes to get through all of the presentation, instead of just getting through 1/4 or 1/2 of the material. I think we would have benefitted more from each class had we the opportunity to hear the endings instead of just the setting up. Most classes got through what the problems are versus how we can help solve them together. The food wasn’t the best, specifically the breakfast, the soupy eggs were not it. All in all the conference was pretty great. I wish I got to go to the preconference. I heard the classes were longer and more information. And I think I would have benefited well with it. I can’t
wait to see the classes they will offer next year. Thank you for the wonderful opportunity to attend the ESP Conference and the Delegate Assembly.
Melissa Gregory
Becoming: Your Journey as a leader We learned about what it means to be a leader and how a true leader makes space for others to lead. NEA has a leadership Competency guide to help individuals monitor and map where they are in their current path and what they could do to improve and advance in their effectiveness as a leader. How leaders should warry of volunteering people into roles they are not comfortable with. There was also discussion about true leadership not asking a member or a follower to do a job or task they themselves would not do.
Membership Conversations and Beyond We learned about: How to engage with potential members and answer hard questions. Such as “I don’t agree with NEA’s politics” – The politics is such a small part of what NEA does. No member dues go into political activism. Also, how to listen to and engage with stories of why you are a member. This doesn’t need to be your own story, but can also be a story that you were involved in. It is important to make the “connection” with the potential member. Don’t make it an ongoing sales pitch, but a conversation. Make a clear “Ask” to join.
Clear Concise Compelling CommunicationThis was a difficult workshop. The information came fast and was difficult to follow due to the speed. The take-away for me was stop using unnecessary language and punctuation in communication. You have about 4 seconds of attention in an email before you lose the audience. Use links to more information and use highlights in the beginning of the writing followed by relevant details at the end for those that want the deeper detail.
Chad Swarthout
Matsu CEA member at Large| Rights Committee | Bargaining Chair
NEA Region VII NEA-Alaska Director
Membership Conversations and Beyond We learned about: How to engage with potential members and answer hard questions. Such as “I don’t agree with NEA’s politics” – The politics is such a small part of what NEA does. No member dues go into political activism. Also, how to listen to and engage with stories of why you are a member. This doesn’t need to be your own story, but can also be a story that you were involved in. It is important to make the “connection” with the potential member. Don’t make it an ongoing sales pitch, but a conversation. Make a clear “Ask” to join.
Clear Concise Compelling CommunicationThis was a difficult workshop. The information came fast and was difficult to follow due to the speed. The take-away for me was stop using unnecessary language and punctuation in communication. You have about 4 seconds of attention in an email before you lose the audience. Use links to more information and use highlights in the beginning of the writing followed by relevant details at the end for those that want the deeper detail.
Chad Swarthout
Matsu CEA member at Large| Rights Committee | Bargaining Chair
NEA Region VII NEA-Alaska Director
This year I had an opportunity to attend the National ESP Conference in Seattle, Washington. The theme was Joy, Justice, Excellence: The Strength of Educators. The Brilliance of Students. The Power of Community. While I was there, I took classes on White Fragility and Deconstructing Whiteness. My greatest take-away from these two particular classes was I need to stop being afraid to talk about it.The conversation needs to start now. I also took a couple classes on growth of the ESPs in our community and union. I really liked the idea of Peer mentoring programs (we have all been the new person and we have no idea about anything from logging into the computer to using the curriculum), the 4 pillars for membership (retention, development, engagement and recruitment), and within those 4 pillars how to bring in and keep members. Many ideas were from brainstorming as a whole group, some are examples of what other locals are doing, and some were just dreams.
If you have an opportunity to be a part of this amazing conference please do it!! It is a time for all ESPs to get together and talk. Our people with our people:)
Amanda Johnson:
Member at Large CEA Board of directors, Bargaining team, Legislative Action Team.
If you have an opportunity to be a part of this amazing conference please do it!! It is a time for all ESPs to get together and talk. Our people with our people:)
Amanda Johnson:
Member at Large CEA Board of directors, Bargaining team, Legislative Action Team.
2023 NEA ESP National Conference
I attended the ESP Conference for the first time this year. It was definitely an interesting experience and I hope to attend the next one. My classes were; That’s Not a Union Issue...Or is it?, True Colors of ESPs, Anti-Racist Educator Toolkit: Actions for ALL Educators and Avoiding Burnout with Mindful Self-Care and Self-Compassion. We were asked by our amazing CEA President Rick Morgan to write up something about our experiences and our take away from our workshops. It took me a little time to get this done as I needed to think about what I wanted to say. I want everyone to know it was a whirlwind of sensory experiences. Was it all amazing and life changing .... No it was not. There were some things that I enjoyed so much I didn’t want that workshop to end and others that I did not feel I got much out of it. So here is the synopsis of my take away from each of the workshops I attended.
That’s Not a Union Issue... Or Is it?
Investigating, Analyzing and Addressing Member Concerns
This really is something I am always interested in. As a newer member I am still learning what is and is not a union issue. Things that we think are, are in fact a gripe not a grievance or issue. But this workshop was not great at all. The presenters were ill prepared to actually present this topic. I did actually learn anything about union issues in the workplace. I went in with fairly high expectations and came out knowing no more than I already did. It did start off late due to computer issues so that was not their fault but at that level of presenting you kind of have to expect the unexpected and be better prepared. In the 2 hours though we covered next to nothing and it was more the attendees ran the show rather than the people up front.
True Colors of ESPs
This class I really enjoyed and wish it had been longer or something. I would take it again. This class went by too fast. There was so much to cover and do that it was hard to keep up. If you ever get the chance to do this class, DO IT!! You learn some things about yourself and what you think you are and what you actually are.
Anti-Racist Educator Toolkit: Actions for ALL Educators
This class was very hard for me. I was very uncomfortable and did not feel I could actually say anything. That is how I felt and it wasn’t because of the presenter or anyone in the room. The class is uncomfortable because we don’t always take this type of thing seriously. There are so many factors that go into a subject like this.
People from different backgrounds, age, where you grew up all play a factor in this. It is totally on me how I felt in this class. Why? I honestly don’t know why I felt that way at the time. The presenter was AMAZING, she knew what she was presenting and how
she wanted to do it. The only thing I didn’t agree with was when she asked for the whitest song someone could think of and someone said “Ice, Ice Baby”, I think that is pretty darn white. They played something else instead. I learned that norm is no longer used. I am still not sure why exactly it’s not a term to use. This goes back to individuals and just who we are. I try my best to not fall into a racist term or slang but I don’t know all the right words. Luckily the middle schoolers at my school are very forgiving and always willing to help me be the best person for them I can be.
Avoiding Burnout with Mindful Self-Care and Self-Compassion
This was my last workshop at this event. It was the best thing I could have picked to end the conference. At this point I was a little burnt out and just had so much going on in my head. We have to take time for ourselves. Don’t give up that free time at work if you are in a position that gives breaks and lunches. Take your break and your lunch. Leave the building if you have to or just let co-workers, students, parents or whoever know that hey this is my break time or this is my lunch time and I can get back to you after. Just remember to take that time for yourself and talk to others if you are having a hard day. I am lucky to not only work with my best friend everyday but also my oldest daughter. They are always there to listen if I am just having trouble letting something go that happened that day or week or month. Take the time for yourself and don’t let anyone begrudge you that. I highly recommend taking this class and that you attend union conferences. During this class I painted a rock and a coaster. It was just relaxing to do this.
Charlie Weaver
WMS Building Representative
I attended the ESP Conference for the first time this year. It was definitely an interesting experience and I hope to attend the next one. My classes were; That’s Not a Union Issue...Or is it?, True Colors of ESPs, Anti-Racist Educator Toolkit: Actions for ALL Educators and Avoiding Burnout with Mindful Self-Care and Self-Compassion. We were asked by our amazing CEA President Rick Morgan to write up something about our experiences and our take away from our workshops. It took me a little time to get this done as I needed to think about what I wanted to say. I want everyone to know it was a whirlwind of sensory experiences. Was it all amazing and life changing .... No it was not. There were some things that I enjoyed so much I didn’t want that workshop to end and others that I did not feel I got much out of it. So here is the synopsis of my take away from each of the workshops I attended.
That’s Not a Union Issue... Or Is it?
Investigating, Analyzing and Addressing Member Concerns
This really is something I am always interested in. As a newer member I am still learning what is and is not a union issue. Things that we think are, are in fact a gripe not a grievance or issue. But this workshop was not great at all. The presenters were ill prepared to actually present this topic. I did actually learn anything about union issues in the workplace. I went in with fairly high expectations and came out knowing no more than I already did. It did start off late due to computer issues so that was not their fault but at that level of presenting you kind of have to expect the unexpected and be better prepared. In the 2 hours though we covered next to nothing and it was more the attendees ran the show rather than the people up front.
True Colors of ESPs
This class I really enjoyed and wish it had been longer or something. I would take it again. This class went by too fast. There was so much to cover and do that it was hard to keep up. If you ever get the chance to do this class, DO IT!! You learn some things about yourself and what you think you are and what you actually are.
Anti-Racist Educator Toolkit: Actions for ALL Educators
This class was very hard for me. I was very uncomfortable and did not feel I could actually say anything. That is how I felt and it wasn’t because of the presenter or anyone in the room. The class is uncomfortable because we don’t always take this type of thing seriously. There are so many factors that go into a subject like this.
People from different backgrounds, age, where you grew up all play a factor in this. It is totally on me how I felt in this class. Why? I honestly don’t know why I felt that way at the time. The presenter was AMAZING, she knew what she was presenting and how
she wanted to do it. The only thing I didn’t agree with was when she asked for the whitest song someone could think of and someone said “Ice, Ice Baby”, I think that is pretty darn white. They played something else instead. I learned that norm is no longer used. I am still not sure why exactly it’s not a term to use. This goes back to individuals and just who we are. I try my best to not fall into a racist term or slang but I don’t know all the right words. Luckily the middle schoolers at my school are very forgiving and always willing to help me be the best person for them I can be.
Avoiding Burnout with Mindful Self-Care and Self-Compassion
This was my last workshop at this event. It was the best thing I could have picked to end the conference. At this point I was a little burnt out and just had so much going on in my head. We have to take time for ourselves. Don’t give up that free time at work if you are in a position that gives breaks and lunches. Take your break and your lunch. Leave the building if you have to or just let co-workers, students, parents or whoever know that hey this is my break time or this is my lunch time and I can get back to you after. Just remember to take that time for yourself and talk to others if you are having a hard day. I am lucky to not only work with my best friend everyday but also my oldest daughter. They are always there to listen if I am just having trouble letting something go that happened that day or week or month. Take the time for yourself and don’t let anyone begrudge you that. I highly recommend taking this class and that you attend union conferences. During this class I painted a rock and a coaster. It was just relaxing to do this.
Charlie Weaver
WMS Building Representative