MASA... "On the Road" w/ Charlie... News from the front

This is a report on a number of issues, legislative and informative, to the members of the Minnesota Association of School Administrators (MASA) from Charlie Kyte, Executive DIrector.

There is a video above that is about 5 1/2 minutes long. Just click in the triangle in the center of it. There is also an audio podcast to listen to that is slightly longer.

SPECIAL EDUCATION PRO-RATION

88%.... that is what you are going to get. Quite a few Districts have felt mislead on this issue. There is a good memo from Tom Melcher attached to this weeks MDE Superintendent's e-mail letter. Take a look at it.

MASA ANTI-BLOG ATTACK TEAM

Quite a few MASA retirees have told us they will participate in 'push back' messages when our members are under blog attacks. MASA is also meeting with an aggressive attorney and will be ready to level a few lawsuits on our members behalf if necessary. Let us know if attacks are being directed at you.

"GETTING PREPARED" REPORT COMING OUT SOON

This report, coming from MnSCU, tells us how many students in college are taking remedial courses. You will receive the report in about 2 weeks, in advance of a media release. Be sure your HS Principals have it and you are prepared to react to media inquiries. We need to remember that we are all (Colleges and K-12 schools) interested in having as many students be successful as possible.

LEAD IN THE PAINT ON TOYS IN YOUR CLASSROOMS

"Get the lead out"... or t least test to see if you have a problem. You can pay for testing with H & S dollars, but it is pretty expensive. It might just be best to destroy the toys and buy new. This time buy toys made in the USA. If you need more guidance on this call Greg Boole at the MN Dep't of Health (218-332-5147 or 651-201-4620)

KEEPING THE PRESSURE ON FOR SCHOOL FUNDING

The education lobbyists continue to meet with key legislators about school funding. Last week we met privately with Speaker Kelliher and this week with Senator Stumpf. They want to help, but are struggling to find a way to do so.

MIKE FUNK COMMANDING TROOPS IN KOSOVO

Mike is the superintendent on leave from the BOLD schools. Lt Colonel Funk commands the Minnesota National Guard Brigade in Kosovo, where the new government just recently declared independence from Serbia. The Minnesotan's are in the middle of what could become an explosive situation. Keep Mike and his brigade in your thoughts and prayers.