This is a report to the members of the Minnesota Association of School Administrators (MASA) from Charlie Kyte, Executive Director.
The video and audio podcast above are each 6-8 minutes long. Just click on the appropriate area. For the video give it about 45 seconds to load.
MASA LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEES SWING INTO ACTION:
MASA is preparing for the 2010 legislative session. The Legislative Policy Sub-Committee met last week. The Legislative Finance Sub-Committee met yesterday. They are both creating platform positions that will hopefully improve the climate for education in our schools and minimize the financial stress all districts are experiencing. The Legislative Pension & Contract Sub-Committee is meeting on Thursday, October 29th.
RACE TO THE TOP STATEWIDE GRANTS:
The MDE is holding meetings around the state on the interest of educators on pursuing a statewide federal Race to the Top Grant. If Minnesota would successfully receive such a grant, 1/2 the money would be used at the state level primarily to enrich the data collection system. 1/2 the money would go to the districts via the Title I formula over 3 years.
In return, the state would have extra-ordinary powers to intervene in the 5% lowest performing schools in the state.
NATIONAL CONFERENCE ON EDUCATION:
AASA hosts the National Conference on Education in Phoenix on February 11-14, 2010.
BRAIN RESEARCH AND SMART CLASSROOMS:
Quite a few districts are utilizing the combination of physical activity with academic learning as a way to enhance student learning. This technique, used primarily for pre-school and primary students, is showing some very promising results. The cost is minimal although some training of staff is required.
TRA PENSION SYSTEM:
We are facing a serious problem because of the investment losses of all pension systems. To resolve the issue, it will most likely require additional contributions by employers, by active employees and possibly the State of Minnesota. In addition, retirees may need to contribute by not having any increases in their inflationary increases in their pensions for several years.
Great info on {the topic of the blog}. It will guide many of the readers.
Posted by: essay writing | November 12, 2009 at 04:08 AM