172 nd
YE AR
2017
ANNUAL MEETING
OF DELEGATES
DELEGATE HANDBOOK
MAY 19-20
HYNES CONVENTION CENTER | BOSTON, MA
7
1
ANNUAL MEETING OF DELEGATES YE72 d
AR
MAY 19-20
OFFICERS
Barbara Madeloni, President
Erik J. Champy, Vice President
Ann Clarke, Executive Director-Treasurer
PARLIAMENTARIAN
James H. Slaughter
MUSICAL ACCOMPANIMENT
Robert A. Lague
MTA Annual Meeting Chorus
©2017 Massachusetts Teachers Association
n
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTIONPAGE
2017 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
2017 BUSINESS SESSION AGENDA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
MTA AWARDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
DUTIES OF ANNUAL MEETING DELEGATES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
DELEGATE REGISTRATION & PROCEDURAL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
PARLIAMENTARY MOTIONS GUIDE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
SPEAKING FROM THE FLOOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
IDENTIFICATION BADGES & RIBBONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
HYNES CONVENTION CENTER – PLAZA LEVEL LAYOUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
2017 ELECTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
VOTING INSTRUCTIONS & REQUIREMENTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
2017 CERTIFIED CANDIDATES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
CAMPAIGN GUIDELINES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
DISTRIBUTION OF CAMPAIGN MATERIALS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE MTA BYLAWS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE MTA STANDING RULES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE MTA RESOLUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR-TREASURER. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FROM THE 2016 MTA ANNUAL MEETING OF DELEGATES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
MINUTES OF THE 2016 MTA ANNUAL MEETING OF DELEGATES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
ATTACHMENT A: 2016 BUSINESS SESSION AGENDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
ATTACHMENT B: 2016 CERTIFIED CANDIDATES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
ATTACHMENT C: 2016 OFFICIAL TABULATION OF ELECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
i
NOTES
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2017 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
(Tentative, Subject to Change)
THURSDAY, MAY 18
TIME
EVENT
LOCATION
2 – 4 p.m.
MTAB Sponsors’ Booth Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall A, 1st Floor
2 – 4 p.m.
Exhibitor and Candidate Booth Registration & Set up . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hallway 1st Floor (Between Halls A & B)
TIME
EVENT
8 – 9:30 a.m.
Exhibitor and Candidate Booth Registration & Set up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall A, 1st Floor
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Visit MTAB Sponsors’ Booths. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall A, 1st Floor
10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Delegate and Non-Delegate Registration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall A, 1st Floor
10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
MTA Candidates’ Booths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hynes, Hallway, 1st Floor (Between Halls A & B)
10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Boston Concierge Service Desk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Plaza Level
10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Meeting Rooms .......................................................................................................................Hilton, Maverick A & B;
Hilton, Adams A & B
10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Retired Delegates Meeting/Breakfast and Candidate Speeches,
Executive Committee Retired and Retired Members Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hilton, Belvidere Room
11 a.m.
Business Session Doors Open . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hynes Hall B, 1st Floor
11 a.m. – 12 p.m. (Noon)
FINAL DEADLINE: Submit Proposed Amendments to the Standing Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hynes Hall B, 1st Floor
11:30 – 11:50 a.m.
MTA Chorus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hynes Hall B, 1st Floor
12 p.m. (Noon)
Business Session Convenes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hynes Hall B, 1st Floor
4 p.m.
Hotel Registration for Delegates Begins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hilton and Marriott Hotels
Prior to Recess
FINAL DEADLINE: New Business Items WITH Budgetary Implications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hynes Hall B, 1st Floor
Prior to Recess
FINAL DEADLINE: Proposed Resolutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hynes Hall B, 1st Floor
FRIDAY, MAY 19
LOCATION
Immediately following recess Statewide speeches, ESP Executive Committee and Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hynes Hall B, 1st Floor
6 p.m. (Approximately)
Business Session Recesses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes Hall B, 1st Floor
6 – 7 p.m.
Resolutions Committee Meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hilton, Maverick B
6 – 6:15 p.m.
Dismantling of MTA Candidates’ Booths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall B, 1st Floor
45 Minutes after Recess
Candidate Speeches for Contested Seats
Region A Executive Committee; District Director 3A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hilton, Belvidere Salon A
District Director 11B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hilton, Jefferson Room
Region C Executive Committee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hilton, Adams Room
District Director 27D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hilton, Maverick Room A
Region F Executive Committee; District Director 22F . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hilton, Belvidere Salon B
District Director 44H . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hilton, Westminster Room
1
2017 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
(Tentative, Subject to Change)
SATURDAY, MAY 20
TIME
EVENT
LOCATION
8 a.m.
Business Session Doors Open . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall B, 1st Floor
8 a.m.
Election: Polls Open . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall A, 1st Floor (Voting Area)
8 – 11 a.m.
Delegate and Non-Delegate Registration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall A, 1st Floor
8 – 11 a.m.
MTAB Sponsors’ Booths. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall A, 1st Floor
8 a.m. – 12 p.m. (Noon)
Boston Concierge Service Desk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Plaza Level
8 a.m. – Adjournment
Meeting Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hilton, Maverick A & B;
Hilton, Adams A & B
9 a.m.
Business Session Reconvenes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall B, 1st Floor
10 a.m. (Approximately)
Final Deadline: New Business Items WITHOUT Budgetary Implications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hynes, Hall B, Podium
10:55 a.m.
Admittance/Briefing of Observers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall A, Voting Area
11 a.m.
Election: Polls Close . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall A, Voting Area
11 a.m.
Hotel Checkout (Recommended) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hilton and Marriott Hotels
11 a.m. – 12 p.m. (Noon)
Election Tabulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall A, Voting Area
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Dismantling of MTAB Sponsors’ Booths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall A, 1st Floor
11:15 a.m. – Adjournment
Non-Delegate Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Entrance to Hall B, 1st Floor
11:15 a.m. – Adjournment
Late Delegate Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Entrance to Hall B, 1st Floor
12 p.m. (Approximately)
Election Results Announced . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall B, Podium
12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Runoff Election: Polls Reopen (if Necessary). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall A, Voting Area
1:25 p.m.
Admittance of Observers (if Necessary) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall A, Voting Area
1:30 – 2:00 p.m.
Runoff Election Tabulation (if Necessary) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall A, Voting Area
2:00 p.m. (Approximately)
Runoff Election Results Announced (if Necessary) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall B, Podium
3:00 p.m. (Approximately)
Business Session Adjourns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hynes, Hall B, Podium
MEETING ROOMS will be available at the Hilton hotel. Rooms may be reserved on Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m.
to the adjournment of the Business Session. Sign-up sheets will be available at each room. Reservations may be made in advance – please
contact Jessica Parlon at 617.878.8153 or [email protected].
NEW BUSINESS ITEMS submitted to the President in the MTA/Quincy Office by 5 p.m. on Monday, May 15, will be distributed to the
delegates at Registration and commence to be considered at the Friday session. New Business Items WITH budgetary implications should
be submitted either by the Monday prior to the Annual Meeting (May 15) or no later than prior to the conclusion of business on Friday (May
19) at the Annual Meeting so that they may be acted upon prior to adoption of the annual budget and the dues for FY 2017-2018, which
will occur Saturday morning. A new business item WITH budgetary implications is defined as any activity or action that would result in an
additional expenditure of more than $1,000 by the MTA. New Business Items WITH budgetary implications will be considered in the order
in which they are received but before other New Business Items WITHOUT budgetary implications. Other New Business Items WITHOUT
budgetary implications may be submitted during the meeting up to the end of the first hour on Saturday morning (by approximately 10
a.m. Saturday, May 20). These may be considered during the meeting in the order in which they are received. If you have any questions,
please contact Mary Gilgallon, Director of Governance and Administration Division at 617.878.8213 or [email protected].
MEDICAL EMERGENCIES: During Business Session hours, the line for families to contact delegates for medical emergencies only is the
Hynes Medical Emergency Line 617.954.2111.
The Business Session is held in the Hynes, Hall B, 1st Floor.
Doors open at 11 a.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. on Saturday.
Admittance requires a proper badge at all times.
2
2017 BUSINESS SESSION AGENDA
(Tentative, Subject to Change)
FRIDAY, MAY 19
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
Call to Order (Noon) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Madeloni, President, Presiding
Pledge of Allegiance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Erik J. Champy, Vice President
“The Star-Spangled Banner” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MTA Annual Meeting Chorus
Moment of Remembrance
Announcements
Adopt the Preliminary Credentials Report (Quorum) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pam Skinner, Chair, Credentials and Ballot Committee
Adopt the Order of Business
Report on Certified Candidates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pam Skinner, Chair, Credentials and Ballot Committee
Teacher Leadership Presentation & Awards
MTA Video: Education Support Professionals (ESPs)
MTA Leadership Reports
a. Barbara Madeloni, President
b. Erik J. Champy, Vice President
c. Ann Clarke, Executive Director-Treasurer
Greetings from Tom Gosnell, President of AFT Massachusetts
Act on Proposed Amendments to the MTA Standing Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Gerry Ruane, Chair, Bylaws and Rules Committee
Act on Proposed Amendments to the MTA Bylaws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Gerry Ruane, Chair, Bylaws and Rules Committee
Act on Proposed Resolutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . James Kobialka, Chair, Resolutions Committee
Electoral Region and District Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Sullivan, Chair, Electoral Review Committee
MTA Video: NOon2
Issue Forum: Schools Our Communities Deserve/Adjuncts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Madeloni, President
*Proposed MTA Awards
a. MTA Friend of Education Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tito Jackson, Boston City Councilor
b. MTA Friend of Labor Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Juan Cofield, President NAACP New England Area Conference
*MTA President’s Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Donna Bivens, Union of Minority Neighborhoods
Act on Proposed New Business Items WITH/WITHOUT Budgetary Implications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Madeloni, President
Adopt the Supplemental Credentials Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pam Skinner, Chair, Credentials and Ballot Committee
Recess
SATURDAY, MAY 20
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
Call to Order (9 a.m.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Madeloni, President, Presiding
Announcements
Adopt the Supplemental Credentials Report. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pam Skinner, Chair, Credentials and Ballot Committee
*Recognition and Presentation of Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Madeloni, President, Presiding
a. MTA Friend of Education Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tito Jackson, Boston City Councilor
b. MTA Friend of Labor Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Juan Cofield, President NAACP New England Area Conference
*MTA President’s Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Donna Bivens, Union of Minority Neighborhoods
Act on Proposed New Business Items with Budgetary Implications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Madeloni, President, Presiding
Act on the Budget & Dues Recommendation for FY 2017-18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Erik J. Champy, Chair of Advisory Budget Committee
a. Reserve Study Presentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Matthew Unterman, Grant Thornton
b. Presentation and Discussion of the Recommended Operating Budget and Dues
c. Act on the MTA Annual Operating Budget and Dues
Act on the PR/Organizing Campaign Budget and Dues for FY 2017-18 . . . . . . . . . . . . Erik J. Champy, Chair of the PR/Organizing Campaign Committee
MTA Video: Issues on Race
Act on Proposed New Business Items without Budgetary Implications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Madeloni, President, Presiding
Adopt the Results of the Election . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pam Skinner, Chair, Credentials and Ballot Committee
Adopt the Final Credentials Report (if Necessary) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pam Skinner, Chair, Credentials and Ballot Committee
Act on Additional Proposed Resolutions (if Necessary) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . James Kobialka, Chair, Resolutions Committee
Adopt the Results of Any Runoff Election (if Necessary) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pam Skinner, Chair, Credentials and Ballot Committee
Closing Comments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Madeloni, President
Announcements and Points of Personal Privilege
VOTE Giveaway
Adjournment
3
MTA AWARDS
MTA FRIEND OF EDUCATION AWARD
Tito Jackson
Boston City Councilor
MTA FRIEND OF LABOR AWARD
Juan Cofield
President, NAACP New England Area Conference
MTA PRESIDENT'S AWARD
Donna Bivens
Social Justice and Community-building Activist
4
DUTIES OF ANNUAL
MEETING DELEGATES
According to the MTA Bylaws, ARTICLE IX, DELEGATE MEETINGS, Section 2. Delegates, G. Duties:
The delegates to the Annual Meeting shall in accordance with the procedures set forth in these Bylaws:
(1)Have jurisdiction over the accreditation of delegates and alternates at the Annual Meeting.
(2)Adopt the agenda and the rules governing the meetings.
(3)Elect the President, Vice President, Regional Executive Committee members, the At-Large ESP Executive
Committee member, the Statewide Retired Region Executive Committee member, the Board of Directors, the
At-Large Director for Ethnic Minority Membership, the At-Large Director for Education Support Professionals,
the Statewide Retired District Director(s), and the members of the Candidate Recommendation Committee as is
provided in these Bylaws.
(4)Fill interim vacancies that have occurred in the positions of Vice President, Executive Committee members,
Board of Directors, in accordance with Article VII, Sections 2F, 3E, and 4E.
(5)Adopt the annual budget of the Association.
(6)Establish the level of annual dues.
(7)Amend the Bylaws of the Association.
(8)Act on new business items brought before it.
(9)Enact all other such measures as may be necessary to achieve the goals and objectives of the Association which
are not in conflict with the Bylaws.
(10)Exercise final authority in all matters of the Association, except as otherwise provided in these Bylaws or by
statute.
ROLE OF THE BYLAWS AND RULES COMMITTEE
Delegates are encouraged to utilize the expertise of members of the Bylaws & Rules Committee who are stationed
at a table near the podium to answer your questions. Members of the Bylaws and Rules Committee are available to
assist the delegates relative to:
■■ Drafting of motions
■■ Items of new business
■■ Parliamentary procedure
■■ Use of the microphone cards
5
DELEGATE REGISTRATION
& PROCEDURAL INFORMATION
DELEGATE REGISTRATION
Delegate Registration at the 2017 Annual Meeting of Delegates is located in Hall A on the 1st Floor, Plaza Level. The
Business Session is located in Hall B, also on the 1st Floor. Delegates must register before attending the Business
Session.
Friday, May 19, 2017
Saturday, May 20, 2017
Delegate registration . . . . . . . 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Delegate registration . . . . . . . . . . . 8 – 11 a.m.
Business Session doors open. . . . . . . 11 a.m.
Business Session doors open. . . . . . . . 8 a.m.
CERTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
According to the MTA Standing Rules, RULE 1: Certification and Registration, Section 2. Duties:
The Credentials and Ballot Committee shall be responsible for the supervision of the accreditation of delegates and
alternates at meetings of the delegates and for the seating of delegates. The decisions of the Credentials
and Ballot Committee shall be final unless overruled by the Meeting(s) of Delegates…
According to the MTA Bylaws, ARTICLE IX, DELEGATE MEETINGS, Section 5. Voting:
A. Only official delegates shall be entitled to vote.
B. Each delegate shall have one vote.
C.Delegates shall vote in the district and region in which they are employed.
D.Delegates for the Statewide Retired Electoral District shall vote in that district.
LATE REGISTRATION
The Credentials and Ballot Committee provides a service desk for late registrations and other credentialing
issues in the Delegate Registration area (Hynes Hall A, 1st Floor) during posted registration hours. This desk
can accommodate those affiliates who were unable to report their delegates in advance. Only Local Association
Presidents are authorized to report delegates and/or make changes to their delegation, so the President must
be present in order to register late delegates on-site. In the event that the President cannot accompany the late
registrant, the chair of the Credentials and Ballot Committee or his/her designee must receive verbal authorization
from the President in order to proceed with any late registration requests. If such authorization cannot be obtained,
the late registrant may be seated as a non-delegate until the President can be reached.
LATE DELEGATE SEATING
Delegates who want to register after the official close of Delegate Registration must go to the Sergeant-at-Arms table
located at the entrance to Hall B. Such delegates must obtain approval of the seated delegation in order to proceed
with registration.
NON-DELEGATE REGISTRATION AND SEATING
A seating section will be provided for: Members who are not delegates, visitors, MTA staff and the press. Nondelegates will be required to register, wear badges and sit in the area reserved for their use. Non-delegates who are
required to access the podium or the floor microphones for a short period of time may obtain podium badges from
the Registration service desk in Hall A.
Non-delegates who want to register after the official close of Delegate Registration must go to the Sergeant-at-Arms
table located at the entrance to Hall B.
6
DELEGATE REGISTRATION
& PROCEDURAL INFORMATION
ALTERNATE DELEGATES
Alternates must visit the registration service desk in the Delegate Registration area during posted registration hours in
order for their credential to be converted to delegate status.
According to the MTA Standing Rules, RULE 2: Delegates and Alternates, Section 2. Alternates:
(a) Only a qualified alternate (one who presents an alternate temporary credential signed by the president of a local
association) may take the place of an absent delegate.
(b) If more than one (1) alternate is present, the local delegation shall determine who shall act as delegate.
(c)If a delegate arrives late, and a duly qualified alternate has been registered, the alternate shall continue as
delegate.
(d)If a registered delegate leaves for an emergency reason, a duly qualified alternate may take the delegate’s place.
FRIDAY/SATURDAY DELEGATES
In the event an association must send different delegates for Friday and Saturday, it must observe the following:
The Friday delegate is the original delegate and will be assigned delegate credentials. The Saturday delegate is the
alternate and will be assigned alternate delegate credentials.
In order for the qualified alternate to be seated during the Saturday session, the Friday delegate must return his/her
badge and floor voting card to the Registration service desk up to 30 minutes after the conclusion of the Business
Session on Friday evening. Failure to do so will prevent the alternate from being registered on Saturday. The
Saturday Alternate delegate should follow the Alternate procedure outlined above.
REPLACEMENT OF LOST DELEGATE REGISTRATION MATERIALS
Please remember to bring your badge and floor voting card with you whenever you leave or enter the session. If you
have misplaced your delegate materials, they may be replaced once.
Please follow these instructions to replace lost delegate materials:
■■ T
he registered delegate must apply in person to the chair (or her/his designee) of the Credentials and Ballot
Committee at the Registration service desk in Hall A.
■■ The Credentials and Ballot Committee must be able to verify that the member is a duly authorized registered
delegate. The registered delegate must present photo identification, credit card or MTA membership card.
■■ The
registered delegate must fill in and sign the required form in the presence of the chair (or her/his designee)
of the Credentials and Ballot Committee.
■■ Replacements
will be made only during official registration hours of the Credentials and Ballot Committee, the
parameters of which are determined by MTA Standing RULE 3: Section 2.
If lost delegate materials are found, they must be turned over to the chair (or her/his designee) of the Credentials and
Ballot Committee at the registration service desk.
BUDGET BOOKS AND BYLAWS
A limited number of Budget Books and copies of the MTA Bylaws and Standing Rules will be available at the Teller’s
Table in Hall B.
7
DELEGATE REGISTRATION
& PROCEDURAL INFORMATION
According to the MTA Bylaws, ARTICLE IX, DELEGATE MEETINGS, Section 6. Rules of Order:
A. The rules contained in the current edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall govern the proceedings
of the Association in all cases to which they are applicable provided they are not inconsistent with these Bylaws or
with any special rules of order the Association may adopt.
AMENDMENTS TO THE STANDING RULES
MTA Standing RULE 8: Amendments to Bylaws and Standing Rules; Section 2:
Amendments to the Standing Rules shall be presented to the Committee on Bylaws and Rules prior to the opening of the
Meeting of Delegates.
Amendments to the Standing Rules must be submitted in writing to the Bylaws & Rules Committee. The committee will
accept amendments in Hall B from 11 a.m. – noon, prior to the opening of the Annual Meeting of Delegates.
To file an amendment to the Standing Rules, please fill out the Form for Submitting Amendments to the Standing Rules
and submit to the Bylaws & Rules Committee. Forms will be available in Hall B at the Bylaws & Rules Committee table.
PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS
Resolutions that have been adopted shall continue in effect. Proposed Resolutions for action at the Annual Meeting must
be submitted to the Resolutions Committee prior to 5 p.m. on the second Friday in January.
Additional proposed Resolutions for action at the 2017 Annual Meeting of Delegates must be submitted to the
Resolutions Committee prior to recess on Friday, May 19, 2017, in Hall B.
The Resolutions Committee will be available in Hall B during the 2017 Annual Meeting to accept proposed Resolutions
for action in 2018. To propose a Resolution, please fill out the appropriate “Form for Submitting Proposed Resolutions.”
Forms will be available in the Hall B at the Resolutions Committee table.
NEW BUSINESS ITEMS
New Business Items submitted to the MTA President in the MTA/Boston office no later than 5 p.m. on the Monday prior
to the Annual Meeting of Delegates will be distributed to the delegates at registration and commence to be considered at
the Friday session.
New Business Items WITH budgetary implications must be submitted either by the Monday prior to the Annual Meeting
or no later than prior to the conclusion of business on Friday at the Annual Meeting so they may be acted upon prior to
adoption of the annual budget and the dues for FY 2017-2018 which will occur Saturday morning. A new business item
WITH budgetary implications is defined as any activity or action that would result in an additional expenditure of more
than $1,000 by the MTA.
New Business Items WITH budgetary implications will be considered in the order in which they are received but before
other New Business Items WITHOUT budgetary implications.
Other New Business Items WITHOUT budgetary implications shall be submitted to the Presiding Officer prior to the
end of the first hour of the business session of the second day of the Meeting of Delegates (by approximately 10 a.m.
on the Saturday of the Annual Meeting) and shall be considered throughout the meeting at times determined by the
Presiding Officer.
MOTIONS
MTA Standing RULE 6: Section 13:
With the exception of items on the agenda, all substantive motions shall be submitted in writing to the Presiding Officer.
Use the “Form for Submitting Motions” to submit motions to the Chair. Forms may be obtained at each microphone
station. Motion Collectors will collect these forms from you at your microphone station. Give the Motion Collector the
original and retain the copy for your use.
8
PARLIAMENTARY MOTIONS GUIDE
THE MOTIONS BELOW ARE LISTED IN ORDER OF PRECEDENCE.
Any motion can be introduced if it is higher on the chart than the pending motion.
YOU WANT TO
YOU SAY
INTERRUPT?
SECOND?
DEBATE?
AMEND?
VOTE?
I move to adjourn
No
Yes
No
No
Majority
§ 20 Take break
I move to recess for
No
Yes
No
Yes
Majority
§ 19 Register
complaint
I rise to a question of
privilege
Yes
No
No
No
None
§ 18Make follow
agenda
I call for the orders of
the day
Yes
No
No
No
None
§ 17 L
ay aside
temporarily
I move to lay the
question on the table
No
Yes
No
No
Majority
I move the
previous question
No
Yes
No
No
2/3
§ 15 Limit or extend
debate
I move that debate be
limited to …
No
Yes
No
Yes
2/3
§ 14 Postpone to a
certain time
I move to postpone the
motion to …
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Majority
I move to refer the
motion to …
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Majority
§ 12 M
odify wording
of motion
I move to amend the
motion by …
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Majority
§ 11Kill main motion
I move that the motion be
postponed indefinitely
No
Yes
Yes
No
Majority
I move that [or “to”] …
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Majority
§ 21 Close meeting
§ 16 Close debate
§ 13 Refer to
committee
§ 10 Bring business
before assembly
(a main motion)
Based on Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (11th Edition)
9
PARLIAMENTARY MOTIONS GUIDE
INCIDENTAL MOTIONS
No order of precedence. Arise incidentally and decided immediately.
YOU WANT TO
YOU SAY
INTERRUPT?
SECOND?
DEBATE?
AMEND?
VOTE?
§ 23 Enforce rules
Point of order
Yes
No
No
No
None
§ 24 S
ubmit matter
to assembly
I appeal from the
decision of the chair
Yes
Yes
Varies
No
Majority
§ 25 S
uspend rules
I move to suspend the
rules which …
No
Yes
No
No
2/3
§ 26 Avoid main
motion
altogether
I object to the
consideration
of the question
Yes
No
No
No
2/3
§ 27 Divide motion
I move to divide
the question
No
Yes
No
Yes
Majority
§ 29 Demand rising
vote
I call for a division
Yes
No
No
No
None
§ 33 P
arliamentary
law question
Parliamentary inquiry
Yes
(if urgent)
No
No
No
None
Request for
information
Yes
(if urgent)
No
No
No
None
§ 33 R
equest
information
MOTIONS THAT BRING A QUESTION AGAIN BEFORE THE ASSEMBLY
No order of precedence. Introduce only when nothing else pending.
§ 34 T
ake matter
from table
§ 35 Cancel or
change
previous action
§ 37 Reconsider
motion
I move to take
from the table …
No
Yes
No
No
Majority
I move to rescind/
amend something
previously adopted…
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
2/3 or
majority
w/ notice
I move to reconsider
the vote …
No
Yes
Varies
No
Majority
Based on Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (11th Edition)
10
SPEAKING FROM THE FLOOR
OBTAINING THE FLOOR – HOW TO BE RECOGNIZED AT THE MICROPHONE
There are 10 microphone stations on the floor. Each microphone has a box with three numbered card signs adjacent
to it in colors of GREEN, RED and YELLOW.
1.Approach a microphone station near you.
2.Hold up the appropriate colored card:
A.GREEN CARD: Speak IN FAVOR of a motion or MAKE a motion.
B.RED CARD: Speak AGAINST a motion or MAKE a motion.
C.YELLOW CARD: Ask a question or point of personal privilege.
3.Once recognized – state your NAME and AFFILIATE. Present your motion and/or concern.
4.You are limited to debate up to three minutes at one time and not more than twice to the same question.
n attempt will be made to alternate pro and con speakers. If you abandon the microphone station for any reason,
A
you lose your place in the speaking order.
The YELLOW CARD will NOT allow a delegate to speak to the question, nor ask rhetorical questions, nor make any
motions relating to the question.
The YELLOW CARD will take precedence over GREEN and RED cards.
RECONSIDERATION
A motion to reconsider an adopted item must be made by a delegate who voted on the prevailing side when the first
vote was taken. If the motion to reconsider fails, the adopted item may not be reconsidered again.
Bylaw amendments voted in the affirmative may NOT be reconsidered.
HAND VOTES, TELLER COUNT AND ROLL CALL
Most of the voting on the floor will be by hand vote.
When the Presiding Officer calls for the vote, HOLD UP YOUR FLOOR VOTING CARD.
The Presiding Officer may require a teller count. A motion by the delegates for a teller count shall require a one-third
vote of the delegates present. (MTA Standing RULE 6, Section 9)
A roll call vote shall be taken only after approval by a standing vote, of a majority of delegates present.
(MTA Standing RULE 6, Section 8)
If the need for a secret ballot should arise, these ballots are available for distribution by the tellers.
SPEAKING ORDER
Any delegate wishing to speak or make a motion should go to one of the floor microphones and hold up the
appropriate card sign until recognized by the Presiding Officer. A delegate who abandons the microphone station for
any reason automatically loses his/her place in the speaking order.
No member shall speak in debate more than twice to the same question during the same meeting, nor longer than
three (3) minutes at one time, unless permission is granted by majority vote of the meeting(s).
(MTA Standing RULE 6, Section 6).
A member may yield the microphone or speaking time to another delegate only for the unused portion of the
delegate’s allotted time. (MTA Standing RULE 6, Section 7)
11
SPEAKING FROM THE FLOOR
A two-thirds vote to close debate cuts off all further debate on the pending motion.
The Parliamentarian, assisted by the spotters, is responsible for keeping the order of speakers for the Presiding
Officer. The timekeeper will time the speaking time of the delegates using an electronic countdown clock. Delegates
can watch the time remaining for each speaker on the screens. At the end of the three minutes, the Presiding Officer
will call TIME, the microphone will be shut off, and the next speaker will be called upon.
SECONDING MOTIONS
Please do not second main motions to adopt committee recommendations, such as those of the Board of
Directors, the Bylaws and Rules Committee, the Resolutions Committee, or on the Budget. However, all motions for
amendments originating from the floor and on motion forms must be seconded.
12
IDENTIFICATION
BADGES & RIBBONS
Color-coded badge holders are your identification as a delegate. Delegates will not be admitted into the meeting
without a badge. Delegates do not have a ribbon. Delegates must wear proper badges at all times during the
business sessions and while voting.
Badge holders are color-coded by electoral region. Each badge bears the letter of your region and the number of your
electoral district. Only delegates and officials will be permitted on the floor while the Annual Meeting is in session.
REGION
INDIVIDUAL/
DESIGNATION
BADGE HOLDER COLOR
ATEAL
BYELLOW
CPURPLE
DGREEN
EBLUE
FBLACK
GRED
HORANGE
RETIREDGOLD
STUDENTSCLEAR
BADGE
RIBBON
COLOR
BADGE ISSUANCE
Issued to registered delegates; includes floor and voting privileges.
DELEGATE
COLOR
(See chart above)
NONE
COLOR
OFFICIAL
(Delegate)
(See chart above)
GREEN
WHITE
Designates individuals responsible for Annual Meeting logistics or who have a
role in the business session; who have access to the floor and platform; does not
include voting privileges unless delegate.
(Non-Delegate)
PODIUM
STAFF
GUEST
DOORKEEPER
TELLER
WHITE
WHITE
WHITE
WHITE
COLOR
(See chart above)
LIGHT
BLUE
GOLD
NONE
PINK
BLACK
Designates non-delegates who are granted access to the floor and platform to
perform a specific role on a temporary basis; does not include voting privileges.
Designates MTA staff members; does not include floor, platform or voting
privileges; permits seating in the non-delegate section.
Issued to non-delegates who are guests of the Association, friends and family
of delegates, and other MTA members; does not include floor, platform or voting
privileges; permits seating in the non-delegate section.
Issued to the Sergeant-at-Arms and security guards who monitor admittance to
the floor and who are responsible for security and enforcing the rules.
Designates delegates who have the responsibility to count votes on the floor when
a teller count is called, and to distribute materials; under the direction of the Head
Teller, a member of the Credentials and Ballot Committee.
13
HYNES CONVENTION CENTER
PLAZA LEVEL, HALL A
A
EXHIBITORS
HALLWAY
L
A
VOTING
H
(Saturday)
Campaign Area
HALLWAY
BOYLSTON
ENTRANCE,
STAIRS &
RESTROOMS
RESTROOMS
L
REGISTRATION
entrance
Campaign Area
HALLWAY
Campaign Area
ENTRANCE
FROM
PRUDENTIAL
MALL & HOTELS
Drop Off Street Level
BOYLSTON STREET
14
CANDIDATE TABLES
HALL B
HYNES CONVENTION CENTER
PLAZA LEVEL, HALL B
HALL A
entrance
H
A
L
BUSINESS
SESSION
HALLWAY
STAIRS,
ESCALATOR,
RESTROOMS
BOYLSTON STREET
15
DALTON STREET
L
B
RESTROOMS
2017 ELECTIONS
MTA STANDING RULE 1, SECTION 2
…The (Credentials and Ballot) Committee shall be responsible for the conduct of the annual elections held at the Annual Meeting of
Delegates and any other times on which votes are taken by printed ballot, by hand, standing count, or roll call vote…
ELECTIONS WILL BE HELD FROM 8 – 11 A.M. ON SATURDAY, MAY 20, 2017.
THE VOTING AREA IS LOCATED IN HYNES HALL A, 1ST FLOOR.
ELECTIONS TO BE HELD AT THE 2017 ANNUAL MEETING OF DELEGATES
Executive Committee
At-Large ESP
1 Vacancy
2 Candidates
Region A
1 Vacancy
2 Candidates
Region C
1 Vacancy
3 Candidates
Region F
1 Vacancy
2 Candidates
Statewide Retired
1 Vacancy
2 Candidates
Board of Directors
At-Large ESP
1 Vacancy
2 Candidates
Electoral Districts 3A
1 Vacancy
2 Candidates
11B
1 Vacancy
2 Candidates
27D
1 Vacancy
2 Candidates
22F
1 Vacancy
2 Candidates
44H 1 Vacancy
2 Candidates
Retired Members Committee
4 Vacancies 6 Candidates
UNCONTESTED ELECTIONS
Candidates who ran uncontested were declared elected in accordance with the election waiver for the following seats: Executive
Committee, Region G; Board of Directors, Districts 1A, 2A, 4A, 5A, 6A, 26A, 8B, 34C, 43C, 15D, 37E, 38E, 18G, 21G, and 45H.
CANDIDATE NAMES
The list of certified candidates in contested races and those elected under the waiver can be found on pages 18 - 21
CANDIDATE SPEECHES – FRIDAY, MAY 19, 2017
Candidates seeking election for the seats listed below are each entitled to up to three (3) minutes to speak to the delegates from his
or her electoral constituency at the following times and locations
10 a.m.
10 a.m.
Immediately after recess
Immediately after recess
45 Minutes after recess
45 Minutes after recess
45 Minutes after recess
45 Minutes after recess
45 Minutes after recess
45 Minutes after recess
Statewide Retired Executive Committee
Retired Members Committee
At-Large ESP, Board of Directors
At-Large ESP, Executive Committee
Region A and District 3A
Region C Region F and District 22F
District 11B
District 27D
District 44H
Retired Breakfast — Hilton Belvidere Room
Retired Breakfast — Hilton Belvidere Room
Annual Meeting Business Session Room, Hall B
Annual Meeting Business Session Room, Hall B
Hilton, Belvidere Salon A
Hilton, Adams Room
Hilton, Belvidere Salon B
Hilton, Jefferson Room
Hilton, Maverick Room A
Hilton, Westminster Room
ELECTION SCHEDULE – SATURDAY, MAY 20, 2017
8 – 11 a.m.
10:55 a.m.
11:00 a.m. – Noon
12:15 p.m.
Elections: Polls Open
Admittance/Briefing of Observers
Election Tabulation
Election Results Announced
Hynes Hall A, 1st Floor
Hynes Hall A, 1st Floor
Hynes Hall A, 1st Floor
Hynes Hall B, 1st Floor
IN THE EVENT OF A RUNOFF ELECTION, THE FOLLOWING SCHEDULE WILL APPLY:
12 – 12:30 p.m. (approx)
12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
1:25 p.m.
1:30 – 2 p.m.
2 p.m.
Campaigning
Polls Reopen for Runoff Election
Admittance of Observers
Runoff Election Tabulation
Runoff Election Results Announced
16
Authorized Campaign Areas
Hynes Hall A, 1st Floor
Hynes Hall A, 1st Floor
Hynes Hall A, 1st Floor
Hynes Hall B, 1st Floor
VOTING INSTRUCTIONS
& REQUIREMENTS
ENTERING THE VOTING ROOM AND OBTAINING BALLOT
Delegates must complete the onsite credentialing process prior to voting. Delegates who have completed that
process can approach the voting area during the designated hours, wearing their delegate BADGE. The badge’s
bar code will be scanned by a member of the Credentials and Ballot Committee (C&B). Signs will then guide you to
the ballot pick-up tables to receive the appropriate ballot. Delegates then proceed to the privacy area to mark their
ballots. Special pens will be provided to mark the ballot.
HOW TO VOTE
Upon selecting the candidate(s) of your choice, completely fill in the OVAL to the right of said candidate(s) name.
Follow directions on the number of candidates to be marked for each office.
In order for your vote to count to reflect your intent, the OVAL must be filled in on the proper line.
Proceed to the OPTICAL SCANNER, slide your ballot into the scanner, and your ballot/vote will be registered .
Voting receipts will be available for delegates who request them. If you make an error, please return your ballot to the
C&B election official and request a new ballot.
ELECTION REQUIREMENTS
According to the MTA Standing Rules, RULE 9: Nominations and Elections, Section 2. Elections:
(a)Election shall be held at the Meeting(s) of Delegates on the day when the final business session takes place.
(b)Polls for voting shall be open on Election Day for a specified time designated in the call to the Meeting(s) of
Delegates at such place or places as the President shall designate.
(c)Retired Members Committee members shall be elected at the Annual Meeting of Delegates by the Statewide
Retired District delegates. The candidates receiving the highest number of votes shall be declared elected.
(d)In the event of a tie vote by two (2) or more candidates in an election, a runoff election will be held between or
among the tied candidates to fill the available seats.
(e)The order of candidates’ names on a runoff election ballot for majority and plurality elections will be listed by the
same order as the initial ballot.
RUNOFF ELECTIONS
Election times for a runoff (if necessary) are listed in the SCHEDULE OF EVENTS and will be announced from the
podium. As with the main election, delegate badges must be worn into the voting room, and the bar code will be
scanned.
17
2017 CERTIFIED CANDIDATES
CERTIFICATION OF NOMINATION PAPERS FOR
ELECTIONS AT 2017 MTA ANNUAL MEETING
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE; BOARD OF DIRECTORS; AND RETIRED MEMBERS COMMITTEE
March 6, 2017
OFFICIAL RECORD
In accordance with ARTICLE VII of the MTA Bylaws, it is hereby certified that the candidates for the positions indicated
below have filed proper nomination papers in accordance with Article VII of the Bylaws of the Massachusetts Teachers
Association.
The order of the candidates’ names (if applicable) on this document reflects the results of the lottery conducted by the
Credentials and Ballot Committee which shall be the order of placement of certified candidates on the election ballots
at Annual Meeting.
*Election Waiver: According to the MTA Bylaws, Standing Rules & Resolutions, Article VII, Section 3 E. (4), Section 4 E.
(4), Section 5 C. (3), Section 6 C. (3), if the number of candidates is equal to the number of seats to be filled, the election
shall be waived, and the candidate(s) declared elected. Therefore, the following candidate(s), indicated with an asterisk
(*) are elected.
MTA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CANDIDATES
REGION A
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Charles Clark
2. Jean Fay
REGION C
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Dale Forest
2. Robert Erlandsen
3. Katuska (Katie) Lecaro-McGrath
REGION F
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Matthew Bach
2. Kathleen Meltsakos
REGION G
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Michael Zilles *
AT-LARGE ESP ON THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Wendy MacMillan
2. Robert “Bobby” Travers Jr.
18
2017 CERTIFIED CANDIDATES
STATEWIDE RETIRED DISTRICT ON THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Andrei Joseph
2. Gerard (Gerry) Ruane
MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS CANDIDATES
1A
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Brendan Sheran *
2A
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Pamela Cavanaugh *
3A
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Mary Cowhey
2. Julie Spencer-Robinson
4A
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Chris Herland *
5A
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Audrey Murph Brown *
6A
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Todd Ostrowski *
26A
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Benjamin Eisen *
8B
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Karen Ballway *
11B
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Douglas Johnson
2. Elaine Valk
34C
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Tammy Johnson *
19
2017 CERTIFIED CANDIDATES
43C
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Cheri Cluff *
15D
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Kristen Tracy *
27D
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Bruce Mallory
2. Nicole Prevost
37E
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Nancy Everidge *
38E
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Adeline Bee *
22F
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Fred Hopkins
2. Suzanne Vazquez
18G
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Kelly Henderson *
21G
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Laura Vago *
44H
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Diana Yohe
2. Catherine Boudreau
45H
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Christopher J. O’Donnell *
At-Large ESP on the Board of Directors
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Leslie Marsland
2. Deborah Young
20
2017 CERTIFIED CANDIDATES
RETIRED MEMBERS COMMITTEE
(Four Seats - Two-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2017)
1. Paul Mazut
2. Cheryl Ann Welch
3. Julia Monteiro Johnson
4. Lois Powers
5. John DeCicco
6. Beverly Saccocia
21
CAMPAIGN GUIDELINES
CAMPAIGN HOURS: FRIDAY 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. | SATURDAY 7 – 8 a.m.
Campaigning at the Annual Meeting of Delegates will take place on Friday and Saturday (prior to the commencement of
the election period at 8 a.m.) only in the designated areas of the Hynes Convention Center.
ALL campaign materials must be removed and campaigning discontinued by SATURDAY at 8 a.m.
In the event of a runoff election, campaigning for the runoff will resume on SATURDAY when the runoff is announced,
for approximately 30 minutes.
Per MTA Standing Rules, RULE 10, Section 2:
No campaign literature or related materials may be distributed or posted within the seating area of the auditorium,
registration areas, or polling areas, or where such materials are visible from these areas.
DESIGNATED CAMPAIGN AREAS
Campaign materials including signage, flyers, handouts, and other material are ONLY permitted in the campaign booths
and in the hallway areas adjacent to Hall A (as shown on Hynes Convention Center Map on pages 14–15), but not in
front of the Hall A doorway entrance to Registration (where materials could be visible from Registration). Campaigning
with campaign materials is allowed exclusively in these designated areas, and campaigners may not obstruct the
passage in these hallways for MTA attendees and others using the Hynes meeting rooms. Candidates and their
campaigns must obey the directions of the Credentials and Ballot Committee (C&B) and Hynes Convention Center staff
regarding relocation as deemed necessary.
Campaigning is not permitted in any other areas, including the entrance area and ramp from the Prudential Mall,
Boylston Street entrance lobby, areas adjacent to escalators, and the Hallway adjacent to Hall B.
“Verbal Campaigning” only and the wearing of campaign buttons may take place outside of the designated campaign
areas. This and all campaign activity must cease when the polls open.
PROHIBITED CAMPAIGN AREAS AND PRACTICES
Campaign materials are not permitted anywhere except in the Designated Campaign Areas specified above.
Campaigning is prohibited in the Annual Meeting Business Session Room (Hall B) and its adjacent Hallway, the
Registration Room (Hall A) and near its entrance doorway, the Voting Area (Hall A), at hotels, and in the Prudential
Center Mall.
While buttons may be worn in the Business Session (Hall B), distribution there is prohibited. Buttons may not be worn in
the Voting Area, and should be removed as you approach that area, where a sign is posted, or where instructed to do
so by C&B Committee members.
Posting of any literature or materials on the walls of the Hynes Convention Center and any hotels is strictly prohibited.
Stickers of any kind are also prohibited within the Hynes and the hotels.
22
DISTRIBUTION OF CAMPAIGN MATERIALS
RELEVANT EXCERPTS FROM MTA POLICY 70.01, CAMPAIGN AND ELECTION GENERAL POLICY
Campaign material is defined as any document, electronic transmission, object, or other material that has the
purpose or effect of promoting the candidacy of an individual for an MTA office, and shall include, by way of
illustration and without limitation, billboards, newspaper advertisements, audio-visual materials, emails, brochures,
position papers, buttons, pins, articles of clothing, candy, posters, banners, signs, fans, pens, announcements, and
invitations.
The campaign guidelines are an extension of and are consistent with electoral provisions in the MTA Bylaws and
Standing Rules.
CAMPAIGN MATERIAL
■■ Candidates for MTA elective office should recognize the fact that the office which they seek carries with it high
professional standards, and, therefore, should conduct themselves and their campaigns in such a manner as not
to demean the office.
■■ All campaign materials for candidates or issues which are placed or distributed at meetings of delegates should
comply with these guidelines and the MTA Standing Rules. It is the responsibility of each candidate/sponsor(s) to
urge full cooperation by all campaign workers.
■■ No campaign literature or related materials may be distributed or posted within the seating area of the auditorium,
registration areas or polling areas or where such materials are visible from these areas.
■■ No campaign materials including buttons will be permitted to be distributed, worn or posted within the polling
area on the day of the election.
■■ At meetings of delegates, the Credentials and Ballot Committee is authorized to remove campaign materials and
prohibit practices which are inconsistent with the Committee's guidelines.
■■ Candidates shall be responsible for the removal of all campaign materials at the termination of the Meeting of
Delegates.
■■ Campaign material shall in no way be designed to attack the character of an individual or group.
■■ All campaign materials shall be properly identified by source and sponsorship. The Credentials and Ballot
Committee defines source and sponsorship as follows: Member/Author; Local Association/Sponsor(s).
■■ The official logo or letterhead used by the MTA may not be utilized in campaign materials.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF CANDIDATES
■■ Noisy demonstrations or use of sound equipment will not be permitted on the floor of the Annual Meeting,
registration areas or polling areas.
■■ No items should be given away by lottery, raffle, drawing or similar means in connection with campaigning for
elective office or issues at meetings of delegates.
■■ Campaigners handing out materials should not create traffic problems, impede the process of registration, or
hinder entry into the main assembly hall. Campaign materials may not be distributed in the banquet hall.
■■ Campaigners may not use press-apply or other sticky-back materials for badges or signs. Campaign literature
may not be posted on walls, but may be propped up against walls, or set on tables or easels. Campaigners
should not block entrances, exits, traffic, or fire aisles. In addition, the campaigners may be requested to comply
with other restrictions imposed by the management of the meeting facility.
■■ Campaigners should not remove or deface campaign materials belonging to another candidate.
■■ Candidates shall be responsible for compliance with this policy, including responsibility for the conduct of their
campaign manager and campaigns and their adherence to this policy.
■■ Candidates and their campaigns shall comply with any request or directive from the Chair of the Committee or the
Chair’s designee.
■■ Candidates or sponsors shall assume responsibility for the transportation and storage of their campaign materials
and for the removal of all campaign materials at the termination of the Meeting of Delegates.
23
DISTRIBUTION OF CAMPAIGN MATERIALS
■■ The wearing of campaign buttons on the floor of the Annual Meeting is permitted. The distribution of campaign
buttons on the floor is not permitted.
CAMPAIGN RULE WHILE POLLS ARE OPEN
■■ No campaigning shall be allowed by any candidates or their supporters while elections are in progress.
RELEVANT EXCERPTS FROM MTA STANDING RULES
RULE 10: Distribution of Campaign Materials
Section 1. All campaign materials shall be properly identified by source and sponsorship.
Section 2. No campaign literature or related materials may be distributed or posted within the seating area of the
auditorium, registration areas or polling areas or where such materials are visible from these areas.
Section 3. At Meetings of Delegates, the Credentials and Ballot Committee is authorized to remove campaign
materials and prohibit practices that are inconsistent with the committee’s guidelines.
Section 4. Candidates shall be responsible for the removal of all campaign materials at the termination of the
Meeting of Delegates.
RULE 11: ELECTIONEERING
Section 1. No electioneering shall be allowed within the polling area.
24
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
TO THE MTA BYLAWS
#1
BYLAW ARTICLE IX Delegate Meetings, Section 2. B. Allocation
PRESENT TEXT
PROPOSED AMENDMENT (Bold and strikethrough text)
B. Allocation
Add after existing text:
SUPER DELEGATES - All past Presidents and Vice
Presidents shall automatically be delegates to the
Annual Meeting, with full rights and privileges.
IMPACT STATEMENT
MTA’s former Presidents and Vice Presidents would automatically be included as Annual Meeting delegates, with full voting rights
and floor privileges, without having been elected as delegates.
SUBMITTED BY
Bill Forster, MTA Retired
MTA BYLAWS AND RULES COMMITTEE
Recommends Rejection (9-0)
MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Recommends Rejection (57-0)
BYLAW ARTICLE VII Nominations, Elections & Terms of Office,
Section 3. Regional, Statewide Retired and At-Large Executive Committee Members,
D. Election, (4); and G. At-Large ESP Executive Committee Member, (3) Election, (b)
#2
PRESENT TEXT
PROPOSED AMENDMENT (Bold and strikethrough text)
D. Election
D. Election
(4) One At-Large ESP Executive Committee
member shall be elected at the Annual Meeting of
Delegates by all delegates. The candidate receiving
the highest number of votes shall be declared
elected. In the event that a majority is lacking on
the first ballot, a second ballot shall be held
between the two highest vote-getters.
(4) One At-Large ESP Executive Committee
member shall be elected at the Annual Meeting of
Delegates by all Education Support Professional
delegates. The candidate receiving
the highest number of votes shall be declared
elected. In the event that a majority is lacking on
the first ballot, a second ballot shall be held
between the two highest vote-getters.
G. At-Large ESP Executive Committee Member
G. At-Large ESP Executive Committee Member
(3) Election
(3) Election
b.
The The At-Large ESP Executive Committee
member shall be elected at the Annual Meeting of
Delegates by all delegates.
b.
The The At-Large ESP Executive Committee
member shall be elected at the Annual Meeting of
Delegates by all Education Support Professional
delegates.
IMPACT STATEMENT
This change would limit voting for At-Large ESP Executive Committee member to only ESP delegates.
SUBMITTED BY
MTA ESP Committee
Elaine Valk, Sutton ESPs; Leslie Marsland, USA; Wende O’Brien, Nauset; Shaleah Rather, CSU; Saul Ramos, Worcester;
Nancy Burke, Haverhill; Donna Johnson, USA; Ashley Alafberg, Worcester; Robert Travers, Jr., Cambridge
MTA BYLAWS AND RULES COMMITTEE
Recommends Adoption (8-1)
MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
No Position (48-5)
25
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
TO THE MTA BYLAWS
BYLAW ARTICLE VII Nominations, Elections & Terms of Office,
Section 8. At-Large Director for Education Support Professionals, C. Election, (2)
#3
PRESENT TEXT
PROPOSED AMENDMENT (Bold and strikethrough text)
C. Election
C. Election
(2) The At-Large Director for Education Support
Professionals shall be elected by majority vote of the
delegates at the Annual Meeting of Delegates. In the
event that a majority is lacking on the first ballot, a
second ballot shall be held between the two highest
vote-getters.
(2) The At-Large Director for Education Support
Professionals shall be elected by majority vote of the
Education Support Professional delegates at the
Annual Meeting of Delegates. In the event that a majority
is lacking on the first ballot, a second ballot shall be held
between the two highest vote-getters.
IMPACT STATEMENT
This change would limit voting for At‐Large Director for ESPs to only ESP delegates.
SUBMITTED BY
MTA ESP Committee
Elaine Valk, Sutton ESPs; Leslie Marsland, USA; Wende O’Brien, Nauset; Shaleah Rather, CSU; Saul Ramos, Worcester;
Nancy Burke, Haverhill; Donna Johnson, USA; Ashley Alafberg, Worcester; Robert Travers, Jr., Cambridge
MTA BYLAWS AND RULES COMMITTEE
Recommends Adoption (8-1)
#4
MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
No Position (45-13)
BYLAW ARTICLE IV Governance: Executive Committee and Board of Directors, Section 1.
Executive Committee, C. Meetings, (3) Rules of Order
PRESENT TEXT
PROPOSED AMENDMENT (Bold and strikethrough text)
Add after existing text:
Any motion for the Executive Committee to hold an
executive session must be decided by a roll call vote;
the names of those voting for and against entering
executive session shall be available to any member of
the MTA.
IMPACT STATEMENT
This change would require the Executive Committee to hold a roll call vote on any motion to go into executive session.
SUBMITTED BY
Dan Clawson, MSP, UMass Amherst
MTA BYLAWS AND RULES COMMITTEE
Recommends Rejection (7-0)
MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Recommends Rejection (44-18)
26
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
TO THE MTA BYLAWS
#5
BYLAW ARTICLE VI Governance: Executive Committee and Board of Directors, Section 1.
Executive Committee, C. Meetings, (3) Rules of Order
PRESENT TEXT
PROPOSED AMENDMENT (Bold and strikethrough text)
Add after existing text:
Executive session can only be held to discuss the
appointment of staff, personnel matters, employee
contract relations, finance, and internal (organizational)
security.
IMPACT STATEMENT
This bylaw would limit the use of executive session in Executive Committee meetings to the listed purposes.
SUBMITTED BY
Dan Clawson, MSP, UMass Amherst
MTA BYLAWS AND RULES COMMITTEE
Recommends Rejection (7-0)
#6
MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Recommends Rejection (48-14)
BYLAW ARTICLE VI Governance: Executive Committee and Board of Directors, Section 2,
Board of Directors, C. Meetings, (3) Rules of Order
PRESENT TEXT
PROPOSED AMENDMENT
Originally proposed text is shown in bold text and underlined.
Note: Before voting to recommend rejection of this amendment,
the Board voted to amend the proposed text. The amendment
proposed by the Board is in bold italic type in the text of the
proposed amendment.
Add after existing text:
Any motion for the Board of Directors to hold an
executive session, other than to those agenda items
listed as requiring executive session, must be decided
by a roll call vote; the names of those voting for and
against entering executive session shall be available to
any member of the MTA.
IMPACT STATEMENT
This change would require the Board of Directors to hold a roll call vote on any motion to go into executive session.
SUBMITTED BY
Dan Clawson, MSP, UMass Amherst
MTA BYLAWS AND RULES COMMITTEE
Recommends Rejection of the original amendment (7-1)
MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Recommends Rejection of the amended amendment (35-29)
27
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
TO THE MTA BYLAWS
#7
BYLAW ARTICLE VI Governance: Executive Committee and Board of Directors, Section 2,
Board of Directors, C. Meetings, (3) Rules of Order
PRESENT TEXT
PROPOSED AMENDMENT (Bold and strikethrough text)
Add after existing text:
Executive session can only be held to discuss the
appointment of staff, personnel matters, employee
contract relations, finance, and internal (organizational)
security.
IMPACT STATEMENT
This bylaw would limit the use of executive session in Board meetings to the listed purposes.
SUBMITTED BY
Dan Clawson, MSP, UMass Amherst
MTA BYLAWS AND RULES COMMITTEE
Recommends Rejection (7-1)
#8
MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Recommends Rejection (46-15)
BYLAW ARTICLE XI Discipline, Disaffiliation and Recall
Section 1. Discipline/Disaffiliation by Executive Committee, A. Cause (1)
PRESENT TEXT
PROPOSED AMENDMENT (Bold and strikethrough text)
A. Cause
A. Cause
(1) Members and/or affiliates that fail to comply with
standards and procedures as set forth in these Bylaws
shall be subject to admonishment, censure, suspension,
expulsion or disaffiliation as prescribed in these Bylaws.
(1) Members and/or affiliates that fail to comply with
standards and procedures as set forth in these Bylaws
or MTA Policies shall be subject to admonishment,
censure, suspension, expulsion or disaffiliation as
prescribed in these Bylaws.
IMPACT STATEMENT
This change would provide due process to members when a question related to compliance with MTA Policies is raised.
SUBMITTED BY
Kerry Costello, Andover
MTA BYLAWS AND RULES COMMITTEE
Recommends Adoption (8-1)
MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Recommends Adoption (41-17)
28
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
TO THE MTA BYLAWS
#9
BYLAW ARTICLE VII Nominations, Elections & Terms of Office
Section 1. General Stipulations, E.
PRESENT TEXT
PROPOSED AMENDMENT (Bold and strikethrough text)
E. Elected candidates shall not be seated until they have
filed a report with the Credentials and Ballot Committee
giving a complete account of campaign expenditures. The
Credentials and Ballot Committee shall certify the receipt of
these reports.
E. Elected candidates shall not be seated until they have
filed a report with the Credentials and Ballot Committee
giving a complete account of campaign expenditures. Said
expenditures shall include the pro-rated portion of funds
received from a group solicitation as a separate line
item. The Credentials and Ballot Committee shall certify the
receipt of these reports.
IMPACT STATEMENT
This change would add a line to the Candidates’ Expenditure Report Form to report expenditures by a group on behalf of the campaign.
SUBMITTED BY
Kerry Costello, Andover
MTA BYLAWS AND RULES COMMITTEE
Recommends Rejection (6-1)
MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Recommends Rejection (51-1)
29
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
TO THE MTA STANDING RULES
PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE MTA STANDING RULES
#1
STANDING RULE 10: Distribution of Campaign Materials, Section 1
PRESENT TEXT
PROPOSED AMENDMENT (Bold and strikethrough text)
Section 1.
Section 1.
All campaign materials shall be properly identified by source and
sponsorship.
All campaign materials including clothing shall be properly
identified by source and sponsorship. Materials sponsored
by a group must adhere to MTA policy. A list of the MTA
members in the group and a contact person will be filed with
the Credentials and Ballot Committee.
IMPACT STATEMENT
This change would require any self-identified group sponsoring MTA campaign materials to identify itself and provide a contact
person and a list of all MTA members in the group to the Credentials and Ballot Committee.
SUBMITTED BY
Kerry Costello, Andover
MTA BYLAWS AND RULES COMMITTEE
Recommends Rejection (7-1)
MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Recommends Rejection (56-1)
PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE MTA STANDING RULES
#2
STANDING RULE 6: Order of Business and Debate, Section 15
PRESENT TEXT
PROPOSED AMENDMENT (Bold and strikethrough text)
Section 15.
Section 15.
Multicolored sets of cards shall be available at each microphone.
Each card shall have the microphone number on it. These
cards shall be used by the delegates to gain recognition from
the Presiding Officer to speak from the floor. Speakers for and
against shall be alternated.
Multicolored sets of cards shall be available at each microphone.
Each card shall have the microphone number on it. These
cards shall be used by the delegates to gain recognition from
the Presiding Officer to speak from the floor. Speakers for and
against shall be alternated using green and red cards only.
Yellow cards may not be used to make motions.
Instructions for the use of the cards shall be printed on the
reverse side of the colored cards.
Instructions for the use of the cards shall be printed on the
reverse side of the colored cards.
IMPACT STATEMENT
This rule would reinforce the longstanding practice at Annual Meeting of confining motions to green and red cards only.
SUBMITTED BY
Kerry Costello, Andover
MTA BYLAWS AND RULES COMMITTEE
Recommends Adoption (9-0)
MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Recommends Adoption (44-9)
30
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
TO THE MTA STANDING RULES
#3
PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE MTA STANDING RULES
STANDING RULE 6: Order of Business and Debate, Section 6
PRESENT TEXT
PROPOSED AMENDMENT (Bold and strikethrough text)
Section 6.
Section 6.
No member shall speak in debate more than twice to the same
question during the same meeting, nor longer than three (3)
minutes at one time, unless permission is granted by majority
vote of the meeting(s).
No member shall speak in debate more than twice to the same
question during the same meeting, nor longer than three (3)
minutes at one time, unless permission is granted by majority
vote of the meeting(s). No delegate shall speak using a
yellow card for more than one (1) minute at one time unless
permission is granted by majority vote of the meeting(s).
IMPACT STATEMENT
This change would limit to one minute the time one speaker can have when speaking on a yellow card.
SUBMITTED BY
Peter Schoonmaker, Sharon
MTA BYLAWS AND RULES COMMITTEE
Recommends Adoption (8-0)
#4
MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Recommends Adoption (58-0)
PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE MTA STANDING RULES
STANDING RULE 6: Order of Business and Debate, Section 7
PRESENT TEXT
PROPOSED AMENDMENT (Bold and strikethrough text)
Section 7.
Section 7.
A member may yield the microphone or speaking time to another
delegate only for the unused portion of his allotted time.
A member may yield the microphone or speaking time to another
delegate only for the unused portion of his allotted time except
when using a yellow card. A member speaking on a yellow
card may not yield the microphone or speaking time to
another delegate.
IMPACT STATEMENT
This change would prohibit a delegate speaking on a yellow card from yielding the microphone or speaking time to another
delegate.
SUBMITTED BY
Peter Schoonmaker, Sharon
MTA BYLAWS AND RULES COMMITTEE
Recommends Adoption (8-0)
MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Recommends Adoption (57-0)
31
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
TO THE MTA RESOLUTIONS
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE MTA RESOLUTIONS
RECOMMENDED BY THE RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE ON JAN. 27, 2017
AT ITS MEETING ON MARCH 24-25, THE MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS VOTED TO RECOMMEND ALL
FOR APPROVAL AS DRAFTED EXCEPT FOR C-25, WHICH THE BOARD RECOMMENDED AMENDING
AS SHOWN IN THE ATTACHED TEXT.
Resolutions Committee:
James Kobialka, chair
Lisa Begley
Michelle Corbin
Susan Densmore
Brenda Dunn
Brian Fitzgerald
Tammy Johnson
Brian Leonard
Laura Barrett, staff consultant
Janice Morrissey, staff assistant
CURRENT RESOLUTION A-10
PUBLIC SUPPORT OF PRIVATE INSTITUTIONS
The Massachusetts Teachers Association shall continue opposition to the concept of public financial support for
private educational institutions. The MTA urges the state Legislature to deny appropriation of any funds directed
toward support of any private institutions which would diminish, in any way, the support of public education from
preschool through graduate studies. (75, 77, 80)
PROPOSED REVISED A-10
PUBLIC SUPPORT OF PRIVATE INSTITUTIONS
The Massachusetts Teachers Association shall continue opposition to the concept of public financial support for
private educational institutions. The MTA urges the state Legislature to deny appropriation of any funds directed
toward support of any private institutions which would diminish, in any way, the support of public education from
preschool through graduate studies. (75, 77, 80)
PRIVATIZATION OF PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS
The Massachusetts Teachers Association fervently opposes the privatization of the institution of public education
or any component therein. The MTA opposes any efforts, including public-private partnerships, that undermine
institutions of public education by diverting funds and/or weakening their democratic autonomy. The MTA stands
strongly against the transformation of educational institutions from a public good to profitable commodities. (75, 77,
80, 17)
CURRENT RESOLUTION B-2
ACHIEVEMENT FOR ETHNIC MINORITY AND ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED STUDENTS
The Massachusetts Teachers Association, recognizing that poor academic achievement continues to plague
many ethnic minority and economically disadvantaged students, encourages school districts and local affiliates to
research, analyze and take steps to correct this phenomenon, which prevents many ethnic minority and economically
disadvantaged students from developing to their full potential.
Furthermore, the MTA supports all efforts concerning the establishment of statutes dealing with racial imbalance which
will strengthen the attempts of minority groups to achieve equal educational opportunity. (89, 99, 00)
32
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
TO THE MTA RESOLUTIONS
PROPOSED REVISED B-2
ACHIEVEMENT FOR ETHNIC MINORITY AND ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED STUDENTS
The Massachusetts Teachers Association, recognizing that poor academic achievement continues to plague
many ethnic minority and economically disadvantaged students, encourages school districts and local affiliates to
research, analyze and take steps to correct this phenomenon, which prevents many ethnic minority and economically
disadvantaged students from developing to their full potential.
Furthermore, the MTA supports all efforts concerning the establishment of statutes dealing with racial imbalance which
will strengthen the attempts of minority groups to achieve equal educational opportunity. (89, 99, 00)
EQUITY FOR RACIAL AND ETHNIC MINORITY AND ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED STUDENTS
The Massachusetts Teachers Association recognizes that many racial and ethnic minority and economically
disadvantaged students and communities are burdened by inequitable distribution of resources and opportunities.
Therefore, the MTA encourages school districts and local affiliates to research, analyze and take steps to correct this
injustice.
Furthermore, the MTA supports all efforts concerning the establishment of policies and practices that ameliorate racial
and economic inequities and support equal educational opportunities. The MTA opposes policies and practices that
exacerbate racial and economic injustices. (89, 99, 00, 17)
CURRENT RESOLUTION B-9
HEALTH AWARENESS AND EDUCATION
The Massachusetts Teachers Association recognizes that sensitive and comprehensive health education can be a
positive force in promoting physical, mental and social health.
The MTA urges school systems to assume an important role in developing and implementing courses in this area.
The MTA believes that school systems should establish and support quality comprehensive health programs including
sex education programs that include information on birth control and family planning, parenting skills, prenatal care,
communicable and infectious diseases, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV/AIDS prevention, incest and sexual abuse,
the effects of substance abuse during pregnancy, and problems associated with and resulting from preteen and
teenage pregnancies; as well as other programs that include information on violence and mental health.
The MTA further recommends the continued development and implementation of programs designed to instill in young
people and adults a respect for the human mind and body. Teachers must be qualified and licensed to teach health
and must be legally protected from censorship and lawsuits. (69, 75, 79, 81, 85, 87, 94, 99, 09)
PROPOSED REVISED B-9
HEALTH AWARENESS AND EDUCATION
The Massachusetts Teachers Association recognizes that sensitive and comprehensive health education can be a
positive force in promoting physical, mental and social health.
The MTA urges school systems to assume an important role in developing and implementing courses in this area.
The MTA believes that school systems should establish and support quality comprehensive health programs, including
sex education programs that include information on birth control and family planning, parenting skills, prenatal care,
communicable and infectious diseases, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV/AIDS prevention, incest and sexual abuse,
the effects of substance abuse during pregnancy, and problems associated with and resulting from preteen and
teenage pregnancies; as well as other programs that include information on violence and mental health.
The MTA further recommends the continued development and implementation of programs designed to instill in
young people and adults a foster respect for the human mind and body and the full range of sexualities and gender
expressions. Teachers must be qualified and licensed to teach health and must be legally protected from censorship
and lawsuits. (69, 75, 79, 81, 85, 87, 94, 99, 09, 17)
33
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
TO THE MTA RESOLUTIONS
CURRENT RESOLUTION B-13
LABOR EDUCATION
The Massachusetts Teachers Association encourages classroom teachers to include the study of labor history as part
of American history, with special emphasis on the right of workers to organize and to bargain for wages, hours and
working conditions. (81)
PROPOSED REVISED B-13
LABOR EDUCATION
The Massachusetts Teachers Association recognizes encourages classroom teachers to include the study of labor
history as an integral part of learning American history, with special emphasis on the right of workers to organize and
to bargain for wages, hours and working conditions. American history curricula need to recognize the centrality of labor
history in order to offer a complete understanding of our country’s past. (81, 17)
Create a new resolution C-22 and renumber all following “C” resolutions.
PROPOSED NEW RESOLUTION C-22
HUMANE LUNCH BREAKS
The Massachusetts Teachers Association believes that students and educators should be provided a break of at least
30 minutes for lunch. A break of this duration is needed to promote holistic well-being. (17)
Proposed New C-25 at the end of Section C, as proposed by the Resolutions Committee
PROPOSED NEW RESOLUTION C-25
CRITICAL INFORMATION LITERACY
The increased ease of publishing and broadcasting has allowed for a proliferation of media that contain information of
questionable truth and value. The Massachusetts Teachers Association believes that learning to analyze information,
discern fact from fiction and contextualize sources has become essential to educating our students to be responsible
citizens. The MTA supports the development and implementation of units and programs in all schools, which will help
our students develop critical information literacy. (17)
Amendments to C-25 proposed by the MTA Board of Directors, as shown using strikethroughs for deletions and bold
for addition.
PROPOSED REVISED C-25
CRITICAL INFORMATION LITERACY
The increased ease of publishing and broadcasting has allowed for a proliferation of media that contain information of
questionable truth and value. The Massachusetts Teachers Association believes that learning to analyze information,
discern fact from fiction and contextualize sources has become is essential to educating our students to be
responsible citizens. The MTA supports the development and implementation of units and programs in all schools,
which will help our students develop critical information literacy. (17)
CURRENT RESOLUTION D-16
EDUCATOR LICENSURE
The Massachusetts Teachers Association believes that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, or an independent
standards board governed by members of the profession, if one is established, is the only entity that should have the
authority to award or deny educator licenses in Massachusetts.
Professional development required to maintain an educator license should be relevant, practicable and respectful of
educators’ professionalism and time. (00, 09, 16)
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TO THE MTA RESOLUTIONS
PROPOSED REVISED D-16
EDUCATOR LICENSURE
The Massachusetts Teachers Association believes that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, or an independent
standards board governed by members of the profession, if one is established, is the only entity that should have
the authority to award or deny educator licenses in Massachusetts. Licensing criteria should reflect the pedagogical
demands of the field and be linked to building the skills and experience of the practitioner, not to student testing
outcomes.
Professional development required to maintain an educator license should be relevant, practicable, and respectful of
educators’ professionalism and time. (00, 09, 16, 17)
CURRENT RESOLUTION F-28
EQUITABLE SUPPORT FOR COLLECTIVE BARGAINING
The Massachusetts Teachers Association believes that solidarity among all members of a bargaining unit is integral to
supporting and defending public educators through collective bargaining. The MTA supports requiring all members of
a bargaining unit to become dues-paying members of that unit or to pay a fair share fee to sustain the benefits that all
members receive under the collective bargaining agreement. (16)
PROPOSED REVISED F-28
EQUITABLE SUPPORT FOR COLLECTIVE BARGAINING
The Massachusetts Teachers Association believes that solidarity among all members of a bargaining unit is integral
to supporting and defending public educators through collective bargaining. The MTA supports requiring all members
of a bargaining unit to become dues-paying members of that unit or to pay a fair share fee to sustain the benefits that
all members receive under the collective bargaining agreement. The MTA opposes any measure that undermines this
solidarity, such as so-called right-to-work legislation. (16, 17)
CURRENT RESOLUTION I-3
HATE-MOTIVATED VIOLENCE
The Massachusetts Teachers Association believes that hate-motivated violence, including but not limited to physical
and verbal violence against individuals and groups because of their race, color, national origin, religion, gender, sexual
orientation, gender identification, age, disability, size, marital status or economic condition, is deplorable. The MTA also
believes that the threat or promotion of such violence is equally deplorable.
The MTA further believes the federal, state and local governments and community groups must oppose and eliminate
hate-motivated violence and that current events and/or economic conditions should not diminish such opposition. (07)
PROPOSED REVISED RESOLUTION I-3
HATE-MOTIVATED VIOLENCE
The Massachusetts Teachers Association believes that hate-motivated violence, including but not limited to physical
and verbal violence against individuals and groups because of their race, color, national origin, religion, gender,
sexual orientation, gender identification, age, disability, size, marital status or economic condition, is deplorable
unconscionable. The MTA also believes that the threat or promotion of such violence is equally deplorable similarly
reprehensible.
The MTA opposes any act that infringes upon the civil rights of any person. The MTA supports all efforts to make
schools sanctuaries for vulnerable groups, in addition to the creation of communities that support those efforts. The
MTA further believes the federal, state and local governments and community groups must oppose and eliminate hatemotivated violence and that current events and/or economic conditions should not diminish such opposition. (07, 17)
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Fast-forward to the end of 2018. The MTA is at the height of its power, voters have passed
the Fair Share Amendment, high-stakes testing has been beaten back in our schools, the
Commonwealth is moving toward free public college for every student on a fully funded
campus, and the “Fight for $15” has been won. All this has been achieved even though the U.S.
Supreme Court has struck down the law allowing educators’ unions to collect agency service
fees, President Donald Trump has continued his relentless assault on the public good, and the
right wing has been more active than ever.
Impossible? Hardly. It’s totally up to us.
Although the obstacles we face have never been greater, I believe that the same holds true of
the opportunities within our reach.
Ann Clarke
Think back one year, to the 2016 Annual Meeting of Delegates. The ballot initiative seeking to
recklessly expand charter schools throughout the state dominated our agenda. We faced a seemingly invincible array of
political foes as millions of dollars flowed into the Commonwealth from groups that hid the identity of their donors. Proprivatization legislation was being pushed hard on Beacon Hill, and the media chorus was loud and getting louder.
But MTA members — joined by parents, students, labor allies, community groups and other supporters of the schools
and colleges our communities deserve — went all in. On Election Night, the results of our principled and exhaustive
efforts were clear for all to see: Despite spending some $26 million, enlisting Governor Charlie Baker as their public face
and buying television time as far as the eye could see, the forces behind Question 2 lost in a landslide. Voters, many of
whom had been called or visited by MTA members and other educators, showed that they cherish public education by
sending the proposal down to an ignominious defeat. The final tally was 62 percent to 38 percent.
There is no denying that Trump’s victory over MTA-recommended presidential candidate Hillary Clinton was devastating.
It will have consequences for the foreseeable future. One of them will be the loss of agency fees, which public-sector
unions now collect based on the services they provide to bargain better wages and conditions for employees who do
not want to become members.
The recent swearing-in of Justice Neil Gorsuch brings the Supreme Court bench back to full strength. With numerous
anti-labor cases in the pipeline, the MTA must examine itself in a new light. Very soon, we will exist in a post-agency-fee
era even as we continue to face renewed efforts to expand charter schools, as well as a campaign to use vouchers and
other forms of privatization that further the attack on public education at all levels.
We cannot and will not underestimate the dangers ahead. The good news, however, is that we have been building for
years to overcome them. We were preparing for the loss of agency fee as a result of earlier cases that had made their
way to the high court. And before the huge win on Question 2, members had mustered their energies to make the MTA a
major contributor to the Fair Share Amendment signature drive as part of the Raise Up Massachusetts coalition.
So our organizing began long before Election Day. And we have not let up since — far from it.
Indeed, the success of the No on 2 campaign has ultimately turned many eyes toward Massachusetts. That victory
stood out on Nov. 8 as an example of how grassroots activism can triumph over a flood of out-of-state money and
unions’ most aggressive opponents even while a national debacle is taking shape.
As I spend time with MTA leaders, members and staff, my pride in what we accomplished together only deepens. I also
understand what we have gained during other campaigns we have taken on — winning, losing or simply living to fight
another day. I know the extent of our members’ dedication to their students, our communities and our Commonwealth.
In addition, I have a full view of the resources that we possess in locals and chapters across the state and in the
organization as a whole. Focusing on them gives me confidence that if we proceed on our current course, we have
a good chance of realizing the vision we share for succeeding as a union while ensuring that our students have the
opportunities they deserve as they progress from prekindergarten to higher education.
Within MTA locals, our level of activity continues to grow stronger. Members are talking to members about why it is
essential to belong to the union. The staff in all divisions is working tirelessly to help structure the organizing effort and
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ensure that it encompasses every MTA educator. MTA President Barbara Madeloni, MTA Vice President Erik J. Champy
and the Board of Directors are all committed — and they are taking the long view of how we need to manage our
finances to thrive in a world that will allow us to take nothing for granted as we rapidly adapt to new realities.
Sometimes it takes looking back to see what going forward can be. This is one of those moments.
We are approaching our 172nd Annual Meeting. Our history of fighting on behalf of students, public schools and
colleges, organized labor and democracy is long and distinguished. The advances we have achieved through collective
bargaining have furthered worthy goals for our state and our society.
As I write today, the MTA is a key participant in coalitions such as RUM and the Massachusetts Education Justice
Alliance. We have a legislative package that speaks to and for the values we share with the great majority of the
residents of our state. We are determined to stop the inappropriate use of test scores, to win the battle for livable
wages, to improve conditions for all faculty and staff members on public higher education campuses, to make sure
every worker has access to paid family and medical leave, and to protect the retirement security of people who
have given their lives to public service. We will do everything possible to see through the passage of the Fair Share
Amendment, which would raise roughly $2 billion a year for public education and transportation by adding four
percentage points to the state tax rate on annual income above $1 million.
The list goes on. The MTA offers unparalleled field services and unmatched legal representation. It allows members to
participate in high-quality conferences and events, provides outstanding training opportunities, and communicates and
lobbies strongly in all forums. It facilitates phone banking, canvassing, advertising and all of the other actions that were
so vital to defeating Question 2. It is building on that crucial victory with its coalition partners and is working with them
to hold a Rally for Public Education in Boston on May 20.
But by itself, that formulation is sorely lacking. For the MTA is not just an entity. It is a composite of its members. It is
truly driven by you and depends on you. Your strength, decisiveness, ingenuity and collaboration with one another are
the means through which we can keep and expand the power we have built.
Today, those noble attributes must be joined by a willingness to engage without hesitation. This is our time, and the
future will reflect what we are willing to commit to right now.
As the following summaries of the activities of MTA divisions and departments during the past year serve to indicate, we
have reason to believe that we are well prepared for the many challenges that lie ahead.
AFFILIATE SERVICES
The division is committed to engaging members and assisting locals in promoting the success of professional
educators — and it is dedicated to organizing for power to provide Massachusetts students with the schools our
communities deserve.
Affiliate Services staff members actively consult with and represent locals in the negotiation and enforcement of more
than 700 collective bargaining agreements statewide. The staff is active on MTA committees, including those focusing
on large locals, student membership, ethnic minority affairs, education support professionals, and new members.
This year, the division responded to the continuing assault on unions and public education with the rollout of initiatives
designed to strengthen union power and involve members through internal organizing, coalition building and the
development of a shared narrative with allies in our communities.
No on Question 2. In 2016, the division played an integral role in the No on Question 2 campaign. Field representatives
worked with locals to have school committees pass resolutions to keep the cap on charter schools. More than 200
school committees passed such resolutions. Throughout the campaign, MTA members engaged with the public to
educate residents about the threat of charter schools. Across the state, activities included canvassing, phone banking,
standouts, staffing tables at events, working with community groups and spreading the word to parents at fall open
houses. Given the landslide victory in the campaign, it is clear that voters care deeply about public education and see
educators as the voice of public education.
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Internal organizing. The staff is continuing to work with locals to ensure that two-way communication systems are
developed. Through these systems, members can talk to each other about issues of concern and get their feedback
to the leadership. These structures are designed to maximize the number of members actively engaged in the work of
each local and to promote successful campaigns that strengthen the voices of educators. In some locals, building visits
are occurring, with members stopping by to see their colleagues and have conversations about specific issues. Other
locals are using phone banks to contact their members as a way to start conversations. Given the almost certain loss of
agency fee in the very near future and other factors, it is crucial to promote fast and efficient internal communication.
Open bargaining. The division is working with many more locals that are engaging in open bargaining. This includes
working with all members to develop a platform based on forums in the local, ratification of the platform prior to
bargaining, inviting members to attend bargaining sessions, and having comprehensive updates distributed to all
members. Locals are reaching out to residents and having conversations about the schools our communities deserve.
Strong partnerships are being developed both within locals and with the communities where this approach is being
used. Through this process, members are experiencing the power of collective action. The staff is continuing to hold
bargaining summits, which have been well received. One element of each summit is a panel discussion with members
who can share their experiences with open bargaining.
High-stakes testing and opting out. The staff continues to work to raise public awareness of — and support for —
the MTA’s efforts to combat the high-stakes use of standardized testing in Massachusetts public schools. The work
involves internal organizing, coalition building with parents and other community members, and raising awareness. The
staff is assisting locals with member and community forums to further the conversation related to advocating for the
schools our communities deserve.
CENTER FOR EDUCATION POLICY AND PRACTICE
The center has continued to monitor and influence state and federal policy issues that affect MTA members, assist
members in understanding these issues and their impact, and help members and the MTA staff as needed. The CEPP
has provided research and data analysis to support MTA priorities and has been involved in dealing with a range of
Department of Elementary and Secondary Education policy issues.
The center’s work over the past year has included the following:
Charter schools. CEPP staff prepared the fundamental financial analysis to support the Save Our Public Schools
campaign, as well as analyses of staffing, performance, enrollment, discipline, governance and program data.
Student Impact Rating/District-Determined Measures. The CEPP worked with AFT Massachusetts and other
organizations to eliminate the Student Impact Rating component of the educator evaluation framework. The staff
prepared position papers, met with DESE staff, proposed alternatives, worked to garner support from partner
organizations and lobbied members of the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education. Given the support of
superintendents and principals, the BESE ultimately approved Commissioner Mitchell Chester’s recommendation to
eliminate the Student Impact Rating and District-Determined Measures but decided to replace these elements with
common assessments and a Student Learning Indicator. The MTA opposed the commissioner’s proposal. Currently, the
DESE is preparing guidance on these changes, and the CEPP is working with Affiliate Services to develop bargaining
strategies to assist local leaders and members to ensure fair implementation.
The Every Student Succeeds Act. The successor to NCLB, ESSA was approved in December 2015. Commissioner
Chester is using the new federal law to make substantial changes to the accountability system. The CEPP has
monitored and critiqued the DESE’s accountability proposals and has worked with partner organizations to persuade
policymakers to consider authentic alternatives to the test-based accountability system favored by the secretary of
education and the commissioner. At this time, Massachusetts has submitted its state ESSA plan to the U.S. Department
of Education and is awaiting approval of its proposals. Despite the uncertainty surrounding federal education policy and
funding, Chester and the BESE chose to submit the state plan at the earliest possible date. The staff will continue to
monitor future policy decisions as the framework in the ESSA state plan moves toward implementation.
Licensure/Relicensure requirements. Over the past year, the DESE has identified changes to licensure/relicensure
requirements that it believes will streamline existing regulations. The CEPP has engaged with other education
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organizations with an interest in licensure requirements to ensure that the needs of educators are addressed in any
proposed changes. Once the BESE has approved any changes to these requirements, the staff will prepare materials to
inform MTA members about their implications.
COMMUNICATIONS
The Communications Division was deeply involved in the No on Question 2 campaign from start to finish, playing a
significant role in both internal MTA organizing activities and the work of the Save Our Public Schools coalition.
Members of the staff constantly developed talking points, letters to the editor, speeches, social media posts and
website content, along with a wide range of print materials. They also worked with others in SOPS on television ads,
polling, and the full array of other efforts that led us to victory on Nov. 8. In the weeks before Election Day, two staff
members worked full time for SOPS.
Following the defeat of Question 2, the staff has remained highly active in coalition efforts, including Raise Up
Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Education Justice Alliance. The division has also fought back against the
initiatives of the Trump administration, rallying members to participate in the Boston Women’s March for America,
issuing media statements against the confirmation of Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, and making members and the
public aware of the many destructive policies the president is promoting.
Throughout the year, as in the past, the division’s goal has been to build the power of the union across the state,
working with allies to win victories for public schools, colleges and universities, as well as to advance other policies that
will improve our Commonwealth.
Efforts have included promoting the fight against high-stakes testing, supporting the opt-out movement, fighting
District-Determined Measures and the misuse of Student Impact Ratings, advocating for the election of pro-publiceducation candidates, and helping locals and chapters resist attacks that seek to undermine the public good.
The division works closely with MTA leaders, members of locals and chapters, and other divisions on public relations,
messaging, social media, legislation, elections and other vital components of the public education agenda. In MTA
Today and other publications — as well as on massteacher.org — the key goal is to spotlight the strengths of public
education and increase our potential to win the schools and colleges our communities deserve. The Strategic Action
Plan guides the division in helping MTA members collectively become the recognized voice of public education.
The division’s work this year has included:
■ Developing state and local media strategy.
■ Providing website “toolkits” on current issues.
■ Assisting locals facing bargaining crises, state intrusions and other threats with website and social media
development, video projects, and messaging that strengthens organizing.
■ Continuing to build the association’s presence on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.
■ Producing four issues of MTA Today, constantly enhancing website content, and developing materials for
conferences and events.
■ Providing writing, editing, website, video and graphic design services to advance the union agenda.
FINANCE AND ACCOUNTING
The MTA’s financial condition remains strong despite the increase in our pension and post-retirement health financial
liabilities related to a decrease in the discount rate used to assess the current value of those liabilities.
Overall, net assets decreased more than $16.5 million from June 30, 2015, to June 30, 2016, and total negative $3.5
million. But the MTA has strong cash and liquid reserves, the result of years of positive financial results, prudent pension
funding and sound budgetary management.
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During the year, the MTA engaged Grant Thornton to conduct a study of the level of reserves that MTA should
appropriately hold considering our unique risk exposures. The impact of the potential loss of agency fee and other risks
were evaluated in arriving at the reserve level recommendation. The results of the study are being communicated to
various levels of MTA leadership and will be shared at the Annual Meeting of Delegates in May.
The division continues to provide:
■ Membership processing for approximately 110,000 members and 4,500 agency service fee payers.
■ Financial training and assistance to local associations in the following areas: financial management; membership
processing, including NEA membership database access, IRS payroll and annual tax reporting issues; data
security; internal financial controls; other reporting requirements; and financial best practices.
■ Internal financial accounting services, including financial reporting, budgeting, expense reporting, financial
analysis, payroll, 401(k) and pension accounting and administration, internal controls, accounting for other MTA
entities and related coalitions and groups, required annual tax filings from the IRS and other entities, financial
support for MTA governance and committees, purchasing, and travel administration.
GOVERNANCE AND ADMINISTRATION
The division managed all governance-related meetings and events, including the Annual Meeting of Delegates,
Executive Committee and Board of Directors’ meetings, All Presidents’ and Regional Presidents’ meetings, and local
and regional member forums.
The division also coordinated the Massachusetts delegation’s attendance at the NEA Representative Assembly. The
division provides day-to-day assistance to MTA officers, the Executive Committee, the Board, member committees and
local association leaders. Key staff activities during the past year have included:
■ Transitioning to an automated delegate reporting system for the Annual Meeting.
■ Introducing online voting for MTA statewide elections to increase member participation in MTA’s governance
process.
■ Ongoing work with the NEA to serve as host state for the 2017 RA, which is being held in Boston in July, and to
coordinate a Host Committee of volunteers.
■ Providing administrative support for appointments to MTA committees and serving as liaison to multiple
committees and task forces.
■ Preparing budget proposals for the division’s operations and for the MTA’s many committees.
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
The Government Relations Division is the link between MTA members and their elected officials on Beacon Hill. This
past year, staff members in the division leveraged their skills and relationships to support a number of important policy
initiatives, most notably the defeat of Question 2. In addition to fully participating in efforts to contact voters, the staff
was able to secure endorsements from 118 legislators and dozens of other state and local officials. Staff members were
deeply involved with political strategy throughout the campaign.
The division was also active in the legislative campaign cycle. In collaboration with MTA’s Candidate Recommendation
Committee, the division worked to recommend 24 candidates in the primary election and 50 candidates in the
general election. In addition, a specially designated team worked to promote MTA-supported candidates through an
independent expenditure program.
As is the case every two years, the division also coordinated the development of the MTA’s legislative agenda, which
was developed through an intensive member-driven process that included significant input from educators. Working
with the Government Relations Committee, the staff developed a draft 2017-2018 legislative package, the final version of
which was approved by the MTA Board of Directors. GR staff then drafted each bill and worked to secure the legislative
sponsors to file the legislation in mid-January.
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The legislative agenda is composed of six bills, each focused on wide-ranging policies. Provisions of the bills include:
■ Implementing the recommendations of the Foundation Budget Review Commission.
■ Increasing student access to tenure-track faculty in higher education.
■ Freezing retirees’ health insurance premiums.
■ Placing a moratorium on high-stakes testing.
■ Raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour for all people in Massachusetts.
■ Creating a statewide Paid Family and Medical Leave program.
The agenda also includes the Fair Share Constitutional Amendment. The division works closely with the Raise Up
Massachusetts coalition and other organizations to amplify the impact of MTA advocacy.
It is still early in the legislative session, so it is difficult to determine which specific issues will gain traction. The division
is closely monitoring proposals to expand the education commissioner’s ability to take control of local districts, increase
testing and diminish collectively bargained rights. In the event that any such proposal advances, Government Relations
will collaborate with others across the MTA to ensure a timely response and member activation.
GRASSROOTS CAMPAIGNS
The division remains focused on member engagement through Senate District Coordinators, Legislative and Political
Action Teams and local Political Action Leaders in advocating for MTA-supported legislation and the schools and
colleges our communities deserve.
Over the summer and into November, the division’s SDCs and their LPATs worked with fellow educators, community
members and staff to defeat Question 2, which would have allowed the creation of 12 new charter schools each year in
the Commonwealth.
The SDCs and their teams generated more than 1,400 phone bank or canvass shifts, made 185 contacts with school
committees to pass resolutions supporting the No on 2 campaign, and participated in 117 community events. The
division organized two “telephone town halls” — conference calls open to MTA members — to advocate for the defeat
of Question 2.
Over the winter, coordinators strengthened their teams and prepared for a busy 2017-2018 legislative session.
Coordinators contacted MTA members who were No on 2 volunteers and found that two-thirds were interested in
continuing their involvement as activists.
SDCs have worked with local association presidents and staff to identify more than 100 Political Action Leaders.
Working with the PALs and local associations, the coordinators have scheduled numerous in-district legislative
meetings to give members a chance to speak directly to their elected officials and to advocate for the MTA’s legislative
priorities.
In August 2016, The MTA’s first Campaign School took place at the Summer Conference. This program allows members
to make decisions about running for office and teaches them how to conduct successful campaigns. The program is
being held again this year.
The ESP and Retired/Student organizers are an integral part of the division. Grassroots is committed to continuing
events such as the ESP Conference, the Retired Gathering and the conference for pre-service teachers, as well as
providing opportunities for professional development, networking and advocacy. The successful engagement of these
constituencies is vital to the organization’s future.
HIGHER EDUCATION
The division is committed to organizing members to build power on University of Massachusetts, state university
and community college campuses throughout the state. Staff members represent locals in negotiating and enforcing
collective bargaining agreements and assist locals in issue organizing.
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During the effort to defeat Question 2, higher education activists recognized the harm of raising the cap on charter
schools and the potential to build the MTA’s power with a successful campaign. Higher education members completed
180 phone bank and canvassing shifts, staffed tables at farmers’ markets, held signs, handed out leaflets and talked to
voters at early-voting locations on campuses.
With almost all higher education locals at the bargaining table this year, the division hosted a collective bargaining
summit in April. Teams were trained regarding organizing for power in bargaining and building solidarity by developing
consistent proposals and responses to proposed takebacks.
Monitoring the Group Insurance Commission and organizing in response to GIC actions has become a priority for the
division. In February, higher education members joined preK-12 members at a packed GIC meeting to protest proposed
health insurance plan design changes. As a result, the GIC modified two of the plan design changes. Although
members were not successful in blocking all of the changes, their activism enabled labor-friendly commissioners to be
more vocal and put the GIC on notice that their constituents must have a voice in major decisions that affect the lives of
state employees.
The division continues to employ a consultant to assist members seeking to transfer from the Optional Retirement
Program (a defined-contribution pension plan) to the Massachusetts State Employees’ Retirement System (a definedbenefit plan). The consultant assists individual members with the highly technical aspects of the transfer process
and works with the Department of Higher Education and the State Retirement Board to ensure that the process goes
smoothly for all eligible members.
A new bargaining unit comprising the 30 department chairs at the University of Massachusetts Boston has been
organized. The unit, an affiliate of the Faculty Staff Union, is in the process of bargaining its first contract.
HUMAN RESOURCES
The Division of Human Resources is in the process of redefining its operating model, leveraging new technology and
streamlining workflows.
The division is transitioning to employee-friendly systems that give staff members direct access so they can modify and
edit the information stored about them in the HR system. By opening up this access, the division will simplify basic HR
requests.
New initiatives this year have included:
■ Introduction of an employee recognition program for staff birthdays and anniversaries.
■ Co-sponsorship of an employee wellness program called “ahealthyme” with Blue Cross Blue Shield of
Massachusetts.
■ Creation of an intranet page via the ADP Workforce Now HRIS system through which employees can easily
access benefit and other HR-related information.
■ The formal release of employee self-service access. Employees can now go online and make changes to:
» Addresses and contact information.
» Bank deposit information.
» Tax deductions.
■ The implementation of a new applicant tracking system. This system will be fully integrated into the HRIS system,
which will allow for seamless workflow transitioning from applicant to candidate to employee. HR will be able to
track diversity and applicant flow by recruitment source, as well as time-to-fill and cost-per-hire metrics.
■ Providing employees with an online open-enrollment system for health insurance from May to June, allowing for a
paperless process.
In addition, the division has provided staff assistance to the Equal Opportunity Council, the Retirement Plan Committee
and the Board Negotiating Team.
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As HR continues to evolve, the division will look for ways to continuously improve the ways in which it supports and
manages MTA programs and systems.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
The Information Technology Services Division has continued to provide and support systems that help the organization
implement the Strategic Action Plan, as well as to meet the day-to-day technological needs of the staff.
Currently the division is working on an initiative to update the operating system on our computers from Windows 7 to
Windows 10 and at the same time update to the most current version of Office.
The division works in collaboration with all other MTA divisions to ensure that all technological needs are being met and
that the association is using its internal resources to the greatest extent possible. In addition, the division is responsible
for the implementation, support and maintenance of all major computer applications, as well as more than 175 laptop
and desktop computers, printers, servers, and internal and cellular telephone systems.
The work of the division makes possible the smooth operation of the technology systems that are woven through all
parts of the organization and essential to ensuring maximum efficiency and productivity.
LEGAL SERVICES
The MTA’s Legal Services Policy sets the bar for offering the most expansive and best legal representation in the
unionized workforce, both in the public and private sectors. Pursuant to this policy, the Legal Services Division provides
high-quality legal advice and representation to our members, to our affiliates, and to the MTA itself. In fiscal 2016, the
division opened more than 1,000 new cases for the second year in a row.
Our attorneys — both in-house lawyers and outside counsel — have appeared in proceedings before the Supreme
Judicial Court, the Appeals Court, the Superior Court, arbitrators, the Department of Labor Relations, the Division of
Administrative Law Appeals and the Massachusetts Teachers’ Retirement Board, as well as in other legal forums. They
have represented affiliates and individual members in cases involving unfair labor practices, termination or suspension,
contract arbitration, unemployment claims, retirement disputes, civil service, unlawful discrimination, wage claims,
workers’ compensation, and many other areas.
They assist our affiliates in local corporate matters, and they defend them against alleged breaches of the duty of fair
representation. They represent our members in criminal matters and allegations of child abuse or neglect.
They represent university professors and kindergarten teachers, administrators and secretaries, department heads and
bus drivers.
In addition, the division represents the MTA as a statewide entity when legal matters of general significance arise.
Among other things, MTA lawyers filed an important brief in the litigation over the constitutionality of the existing charter
school cap. The division provided extensive in-house advice regarding the MTA’s own role in the No on Question 2
campaign, the rights of educators, and the limits on campaign activities. MTA attorneys have drafted the MTA’s public
comments on numerous regulatory amendments by different state agencies.
The division has always worked closely with MTA’s Affiliate Services and Higher Education divisions; increasingly,
the staff works in the same manner with colleagues in MTA’s Center for Education Policy and Practice and in the
Government Relations and Communications divisions.
The Legal Services Division also includes MTA’s program offering retirement consultations to MTA members. Every year,
retirement consultants meet with hundreds of members across the state on a one-to-one basis and in workshops. They
also provide presentations. The numbers participating in these consultations continue to grow from year to year.
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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR-TREASURER
MTA BENEFITS
MTA Benefits continues to provide valuable savings for thousands of members participating in nearly 50 benefit
programs. The relevance of MTA’s subsidiary remains strong as it provides new solutions to tackle members’ real-life
issues.
Saving money and being savvy consumers are priorities for MTA members. In the past year, members saved a total of
$215,036 through just one of MTAB’s discount programs.
MTAB tackled the student loan debt crisis, implementing a student loan counseling program. Members at all experience
levels are struggling to pay off student debt. The counseling program provides answers and options for members trying
to find the most cost-effective way to manage their loan payments. MTAB is also planning to roll out a student loan
consolidation program.
Other new programs include a checking account for teenagers, a hotel discount travel site, truck rentals, prescription
drug discounts, and life and accidental death and disability insurance.
MTAB launched a new website in March that provides members with a greatly enhanced visual experience while also
streamlining navigation and more prominently displaying featured benefits. Members continue to register on the website
to take advantage of member-only discounts.
The MTA disability insurance plan provided $25 million in benefits to members who were out of work.
MTAB looks forward to remaining a trusted resource, ensuring that members make well-informed decisions and
bringing added value to their membership.
PRINTING AND MAILING
The Printing and Mailing Department printed 7,999,571 images in 2016-2017 to meet 1,197 print requests. Approximately
150 of these requests were for local associations, including the printing of contracts, fliers and postcards.
The department was very involved in printing materials for the No on Question 2 campaign, including the fulfillment of
201 related job requests that resulted in 1,329,627 images.
The department continues to research methods and materials that will better meet the needs of the MTA family.
The staff has also continued the scanning of archived MTA documents. The work includes creating structured,
searchable PDFs. The staff also provided on-site support for numerous meetings and conferences.
The department continues to coordinate with all MTA divisions to keep the membership informed.
TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL LEARNING
The work of the Training and Professional Learning Division comprises five major functions of the MTA: professional
development for members, organizational development training for members and local leaders, staff training,
conference services, and grant writing and administration.
The division has conducted an array of programs and conferences in the past year, including the Just for New Teachers,
Ethnic Minority Affairs Committee and ESP conferences, as well as a Statewide Bargaining Summit.
In 2016, the MTA Summer Conference was held for the first time at UMass Amherst. The division is now in the midst of
planning for a second year at UMass and is considering new ideas about how to take full advantage of the resources
offered by the campus and community.
This is the second year of programming for the Next Generation Leaders program, which was designed in response
to the need articulated by local leaders for greater rank-and-file member participation and engagement. Since the
program’s inception, 91 members from 50 locals have participated. As a measure of program effectiveness, the division
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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR-TREASURER
noted that of the 84 members who had taken the training through 2016, 43 percent, or 36 people, were actively involved
in the recent No on Question 2 Campaign.
TPL is completing its final year of programming under a three-year $194,000 NEA grant to fund Safe School Summits.
This year, the division worked in collaboration with the district attorneys of the Northwest Region (Northampton) and
Bristol, Hampden, Worcester, Plymouth and Norfolk counties. At this writing, a statewide summit is being planned
for May 6 to allow members to consider professional, contractual, regulatory and legislative issues surrounding safe
schools.
The division also wrote a successful grant application to the NEA for a three-year $146,000 program to train the staff at
Fuller Middle School in Framingham in restorative justice disciplinary practices.
The division provided logistical support for many Governance and Administration Division events, including the Annual
Meeting, All Presidents’ and Regional Presidents’ meetings, member forums on a variety of issues, the NEA RA, and
Board and committee meetings.
A NOTE OF APPRECIATION
As I conclude, I want to offer my gratitude to MTA President Barbara Madeloni and Vice President Erik J. Champy for
their hard work and leadership. Both have done a great deal over the past year to advance the interests of members,
students and public education.
I also want to express my profound appreciation to the MTA staff. As the information above serves to demonstrate, my
colleagues throughout the organization devote incredible energy to their jobs. They are tireless, fearless and dedicated
as they help the MTA build the power needed to fight for the schools and colleges our communities deserve. It is an
honor to work alongside them.
Last but far from least, I want to again tell you, the members, what a privilege it is to serve as your executive directortreasurer. You are the true voice of public education, and you deserve the deep appreciation of your students and our
entire Commonwealth.
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IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FROM THE
2016 MTA ANNUAL MEETING OF DELEGATES
ACTIONS TAKEN ON 2016 NEW BUSINESS ITEMS
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #1:
Teacher Tenure
The MTA should actively support striking sections 3, 4 and 9 in section 42 of Chapter 131 of the Acts of 2012, Mass.
General Laws, which effectively eliminates teacher seniority. The law was enacted on June 27, 2012. Sections 3 and
4 are to take effect on September 1, 2016.
■ The MTA will develop educational materials aimed at MTA members about how this will affect their employment
status. These materials should be published in MTA Today and on the website.
■ The MTA will encourage members through regular communication channels to participate in the drive to strike
those sections of the law.
■ The MTA will contact locals and help organize educational forums to inform and mobilize the membership, and to
enlist the support of parents and students.
■ The MTA will build coalitions with other affected groups, such as the American Federation of Teachers and the
Boston Teachers Union.
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■ This NBI should entail no cost and could be undertaken by field service operatives in the course of their regular
duties.
IMPLEMENTATION
This motion was intended to address issues around teacher tenure resulting from Chapter 131 of the Acts of 2012
(Stand legislation). Senate Bill 308, filed by Senator Mike Rush (D-West Roxbury) and supported by the MTA, would
eliminate the provision of the law that gives districts the ability to consider levels of qualification in addition to
seniority when making layoff decisions for those with PTS. The intent of the motion’s maker is satisfied by striking
Section 3 of the legislation (the maker highlighted sections 3, 4 and 9, and the latter two sections do not address
tenure). Communications have been distributed to members urging them to support this bill, and it currently has 104
cosponsors in the Legislature. Information on this bill is also on the MTA website. The MTA is encouraging locals to
hold forums across the state that ask the question: “What is your vision for the schools our communities deserve?”
It is our intent that issues of educator protections and tenure become a part of those conversations. In order to
build widespread support for these concerns, we need to help communities understand how working conditions are
connected to learning conditions. That can happen best at the local level in forums and around collective bargaining.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #2:
Evaluation System
The MTA should actively lobby the state legislature to repeal sections 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, and 8 of Chapter 131 of the Acts
of 2012, Mass. General Laws. These sections are the basis for the current state mandated educator evaluation
system. The MTA should also lobby both state and federal legislatures to eliminate any use of student test scores as
part of teacher evaluations.
■ The MTA will develop educational materials aimed at MTA members about how this system was developed and
implemented. These materials should be published in MTA Today and on the website.
■ The MTA will encourage members through regular communication channels to participate in the drive to strike
those sections of the law.
■ The MTA will contact locals and help organize educational forums to inform and mobilize the membership, and to
enlist the support of parents and students.
■ The MTA will enlist allies, such as the AFT and the Boston Teachers Union, in this effort.
■ There will be no cost to this NBI, as it can be implemented by field service operatives in the course of their regular
duties.
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IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FROM THE
2016 MTA ANNUAL MEETING OF DELEGATES
IMPLEMENTATION
This NBI incorrectly indicates that the state-mandated educator evaluation system is based on Chapter 131 of
the Acts of 2012. It is not. The state evaluation system is rooted in regulations promulgated by the Department of
Elementary and Secondary Education in 2010 in an attempt to obtain a greater share of funding from then-President
Barack Obama’s “Race to the Top” program. Those regulations are rooted in the Achievement Gap Bill of 2010.
To address the concerns noted in this NBI, the MTA sought the inclusion of a provision in Senate Bill 308 that would
prohibit the state from using any student test score information (or any individual student measurements such as
District-Determined Measures) in teacher evaluations. Communications have been distributed to members urging
them to support this bill, and it currently has 104 co-sponsors in the Legislature. Information on this bill is also on the
MTA website.
In addition, the MTA worked with the AFT and community organizations to compel the Department of Elementary
and Secondary Education to substantially modify its current teacher evaluation system by developing a new, less
punitive model. This step was rejected by the commissioner. Given the resistance to change from the DESE, the MTA
is encouraging locals to take up the struggle against the teacher evaluation system by organizing around its use at
the local level.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #3:
End Common Core
NBI #3 was rejected.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #4:
Retiree Health Care Benefits
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Be it resolved that the MTA shall oppose any efforts by the Governor or Legislature that would adversely affect
current and future MTA members’ health care coverage upon retirement, including changes to the minimum eligibility
age, years of service required, and/or percentage of premiums to be paid; and the MTA shall work with unions and
other allies in an effort to defeat such attacks. The MTA shall inform all Local Presidents of this decision and its
rationale, and shall post the decision and its rationale on the MTA website.
IMPLEMENTATION
As of the writing of this report, there are no serious apparent threats to Other Post-Employment Benefits, including
retiree health insurances. As such, no defensive action has been needed and there is no new information to post to
the website. It should be noted in that we are still in the first few months of a two-year legislative session and, as
with all issues, legislators may choose to focus on this issue at some point.
In July, the Government Relations Division successfully negotiated a provision in the Fiscal Year 2017 budget that
preserved a moratorium on premium split increases for certain municipal retirees and ensured that cities and towns
would not be able to balance their budgets on the backs of retirees.
The MTA worked with Senator James Timilty (D-Walpole) to file Senate Bill 1481, An Act to provide fair and
affordable public retiree benefits. Among other items, this bill would freeze premium contribution splits for municipal
employees at the level the employee paid upon retirement.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #5:
Teacher Evaluations
NBI #5 was withdrawn.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #6:
Fossil Fuel Divestment
NBI #6 was not addressed due to lack of a quorum.
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IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FROM THE
2016 MTA ANNUAL MEETING OF DELEGATES
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #7:
Opposing State Takeovers
NBI #7 was not addressed due to lack of a quorum.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #8:
Task Force on Race
NBI #8 was not addressed due to lack of a quorum.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #9:
Adjunct Task Force
NBI #9 was not addressed due to lack of a quorum.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #10:
MTA Dues Structure
NBI #10 was not addressed due to lack of a quorum.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #11:
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No Confidence in SOE James Peyser
NBI #11 was not addressed due to lack of a quorum.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #12:
Educator Evaluation DDMs
NBI #12 was not addressed due to lack of a quorum.
INEW BUSINESS ITEM #13:
ESSA Opportunities
NBI #13 was not addressed due to lack of a quorum.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #14:
Support New York City University Union
NBI #14 was not addressed due to lack of a quorum.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #15:
Donation to Verizon Strike Fund
NBI #15 was withdrawn: That the MTA donate $5,000 to the Verizon Strike Hardship Fund.
IMPLEMENTATION
The presidential funds account was used to provide a $5,000 donation to the Verizon Strike Fund.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #16:
SEI Endorsement
NBI #16 was not addressed due to lack of a quorum.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #17:
Task Force to Pursue a Feasibility Study of Statewide Election of President and Vice President
NBI #17 was not addressed due to lack of a quorum.
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IMPLEMENTATION REPORT FROM THE
2016 MTA ANNUAL MEETING OF DELEGATES
ACTIONS TAKEN ON 2014 NEW BUSINESS ITEMS
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #10:
MTA Strategic Action Plan Review Process
The MTA President establish a Strategic Action Review Committee made up of members from each region and staff,
as appropriate, to be approved by the Executive Committee at the July retreat. This committee will be charged with
evaluation the Strategic Action Plan (SAP) and determining the strength and weaknesses of the SAP. The findings
of this committee, along with any proposed amendments, will be approved by the Board prior to the 2015 Annual
Meeting. The revised SAP will be presented to the delegates at the 2015 Annual Meeting.
IMPLEMENTATION
At the 2015 Annual Meeting, MTA leadership reported: A number of circumstances have kept us from achieving
the goals of NBI #10. We had trouble finding enough members to name a robust and diverse committee, and then
the chairs were unable to fill their roles. Rather than rush to meet prior to the Annual Meeting, MTA leadership has
named a new committee in order to have broad representation from all constituencies within the MTA to recommend
valid changes to the Strategic Action Plan.
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At the 2015 Executive Committee retreat, the Strategic Action Plan was reviewed. The Executive Committee
reaffirmed the SAP goals and asked to have input on the makeup of the task force. At the August 2015 Board
meeting, a New Business Item was adopted calling for the SAP Task Force to be comprised of the following:
• 2 Executive Committee members elected by the Executive Committee
• 3 Board of Directors members elected by the Board
• 8 local Presidents – one from each of the 8 regions
• 2 ESP members
• 2 Retired members
• 8 members (not in a leadership role) — one from each of the 8 regions
• 6 staff members, with at least one representative from each employee union
• 2 managers
• MTA President and vice president or their designees
• At-large director for ethnic minority membership
Throughout the fall, the MTA conducted elections and coordinated appointments to seat the Task Force. The Task
Force met on January 9, 2016 to work on the goals of developing a broad and transparent system for effectively
assessing what the MTA does to implement the SAP. At the conclusion of this meeting, it was decided to assign a
small group to work on an assessment to be used.
During this year (2016-2017), the small group met and developed criteria for the locals that would participate in
the assessment, a process for holding forums in locals and a procedure to assess what MTA does to implement
the SAP. The criteria to be used for the locals in the assessment are: urban, rural, large, small, Teacher, Education
Support Professionals and locals with both ESP and Teachers. Members of the SAP committee were trained on
the assessment procedure and are currently scheduling forums in the designated locals to gather the information
that will be used to create a survey to go out to a broader group of members. After all the data is collected, the full
committee will meet to finalize the results and make any recommendations.
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MINUTES OF THE
2016 MTA ANNUAL MEETING OF DELEGATES
FRIDAY BUSINESS SESSION — MAY 13–14, 2016
CALL TO ORDER
The 171st Annual Meeting of Delegates of the Massachusetts Teachers Association was called to order by President
Barbara Madeloni on Friday, May 13, 2016 at 12:05 p.m. in the Hynes Convention Center, Boston, Massachusetts.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Vice President Janet Anderson led the delegation in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
STAR-SPANGLED BANNER
The Annual Meeting Chorus, accompanied by Bob Lague, sang the Star-Spangled Banner.
MOMENT OF REMEMBRANCE
A moment of silence was observed to remember the educators who have passed away during the past year. The
MTA chorus sang an original composition written and performed by Bob Lague, entitled “In Remembrance of
Educators.”
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INTRODUCTIONS AND GENERAL MEETING PROCEDURES
President Madeloni announced the Annual Meeting mobile app and its design for attendees to be able to view news,
photos, schedules, agendas, and more for the meeting.
President Madeloni recognized the MTA members retiring this year and thanked them for their commitment to public
education. The first-time delegates to this Annual Meeting were also recognized.
President Madeloni introduced the officials at the Business Session head table including the parliamentarian, Jim
Slaughter, and reviewed the contents of the delegate handbook and the general meeting procedures.
ADOPTION OF THE PRELIMINARY CREDENTIALS REPORT
Paul Jacobs, Co-Chair of the Credentials and Ballot Committee, reported on the required registered number of
delegates needed for a quorum. One fifth of the possible number of delegates constitutes a quorum: One fifth of
2,868 is 574, thus 574 equals a quorum. 767 delegates were registered. The Chair reported that a quorum was
present.
Without objection, voted to adopt the preliminary report of the Credentials and Ballot Committee.
ORDER OF BUSINESS
Without objection, the Order of Business was adopted with flexibility and as amended below: (Attachment A)
■ Retitle Agenda Item #16 – Charter School Campaign to Agenda Item #16 – Presentation of Charter School
Campaign.
■ Add Agenda Item #16A – Act on Recommendation from the Board of Directors to Fully Fund the Save Our
Public Schools Campaign.
■ Add an agenda item for Saturday’s business session to include a five minute presentation by a Verizon worker.
(Agenda Item #23A – Verizon Worker, Matthew Lyons)
ACT ON PROPOSED AMENDMENTS OF THE MTA STANDING RULES
Gerard Ruane, Chair of the Bylaws and Rules Committee, reported that there were no additional proposed
amendments to the MTA Standing Rules at this time.
REPORT ON CERTIFIED CANDIDATES
Paul Jacobs, Co-Chair of the Credentials and Ballot Committee, called the delegates’ attention to the list of
candidates’ names as they appear on the ballot (Attachment B). Virginia Dodge, Stenographer, was instructed to
record the names of the candidates in the transcript.
The delegates were reminded of the rules regarding campaigning, the contents of the delegate handbook relating to
polling hours and regulations pertaining to elections.
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MINUTES OF THE
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TEACHERS LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE PRESENTATION & AWARDS
Vice President Janet Anderson presented awards to twenty-three Massachusetts public educators for their work in
the pilot year of the Teacher Leadership Initiative, a joint endeavor involving the MTA, the NEA, and the Center for
Teaching Quality and the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.
There were eleven graduates present: Susan Barry, Norwood; Kim Bothwell, Randolph; Brenda Dunn, Springfield;
Robert Erlandsen, Cohasset; Sara Floyd, Barnstable; Mary Foyle, Lunenburg; Elizabeth Hegarty, Dedham; Michele
Lippens, Cambridge; Jennifer Maio, Groton-Dunstable; Dawn Martens, Randolph; and Laura Mullen, Hudson.
There were twelve graduates who were not present: Karla Anderson, Cambridge; Lori Bank, Holyoke; Wendi
Cantoreggi, Millis; Sara Colum, Revere; Rebecca Correa, Greater Lowell; Julie Ferreira, Taunton; Tracy Higgins,
Fairhaven; Kelsey Holbrook, Rockland; James Kobialka, Worcester; Lamikco Magee, Amherst-Pelham; Nikki Murphy,
Georgetown; and Blythe Purdin, Nahant.
MTA LEADERSHIP REPORTS
REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT: BARBARA MADELONI
President Madeloni reported briefly on the following:
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■ Threat to Public Education Now Centers on Massachusetts – an MTA report, released in May 2016, detailing
ties among groups seeking to expand charters, privatize education and undermine unions.
■ Local Level accomplishments: held 2nd collective bargaining summit; Organizing Institute held in Springfield,
MA in 2015 which spanned a week and will repeat again at this year’s 2016 MTA Summer Conference; Next
Generation Leadership Program; and forums on Opt-Out.
■ Statewide level accomplishments: held week of action June 2015; collected over 19,000 signatures for Raise
Up Massachusetts (RUM); active in communications with legislators; and creation of legislative target teams
consisting of one lobbyist, one Senate District Coordinator (SDC) and one MTA Field Staff; creation of coalitions
among American Federation of Teachers Massachusetts (AFT-MA), Raise Up Massachusetts (RUM) and
Massachusetts Education Justice Alliance (MEJA).
■ Nationwide level accomplishments: coalition work with the National Education Association (NEA).
REPORT OF THE VICE PRESIDENT: JANET ANDERSON
Vice President Anderson reported briefly on the following:
■ Organizational efforts to defeat the expansion of charter schools: meetings with legislators and the work of the
Public Relations and Organizing Campaign Committee;
■ Completion of the move to MTA’s new headquarters in Quincy, Massachusetts in 2015, along with an Open House
held in April 2016;
■ Progress of the Student Education Association of Massachusetts (SEAM);
■ Optional Retirement Program (ORP) - making sure the needs were met of Higher Education members who wanted
to transfer from ORP to the State Employees’ Retirement System;
■ Completion of the Special Education Survey targeted to regular education teachers, paraprofessionals and
special education teachers who work in inclusion classrooms in MTA’s large locals;
■ Strengthening our local communication systems;
■ Forming workgroups to help stop high-stakes testing; and
■ Work with New Presidents I and II at the special Summer Conference held in 2015 and at the reunions in February
2016.
REPORT OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR-TREASURER: ANN CLARKE
Executive Director-Treasurer Clarke reported briefly on threats facing MTA including agency fee and the charter
school campaign.
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MINUTES OF THE
2016 MTA ANNUAL MEETING OF DELEGATES
ANNOUNCEMENT: VOICE OF TEACHERS FOR EDUCATION (VOTE)
The delegates were urged to contribute to VOTE, MTA’s Political Action Committee (PAC).
GREETINGS FROM TOM GOSNELL, PRESIDENT OF AFT MASSACHUSETTS
President Tom Gosnell gave greetings from the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Massachusetts.
ACT ON PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE MTA STANDING RULES
(STANDING RULES WITH A LATER IMPLEMENTATION PROVISO)
President Madeloni reviewed the procedures for discussing the proposed amendments to the MTA Standing Rules.
Gerry Ruane, Chair of the Bylaws and Rules Committee, presented the following proposed amendments to the Standing
Rules for adoption. Purposed changes to the Standing Rules are bold, crossed out.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO MTA STANDING RULE NO. 10: DISTRIBUTION OF CAMPAIGN MATERIALS,
SECTION 1 & 2
Without objection, referred Proposed Amendment No. 1 to MTA Standing Rule No. 10 to the Credentials and Ballot
Committee as follows:
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■ Section 1 All campaign materials including clothing shall be properly identified by source and sponsorship.
■ Section 2 No campaign literature or related materials including clothing may be distributed or posted or worn
within the seating area of the auditorium, registration areas or polling areas or where such materials are visible
from these areas.
Gerry Ruane, Chair of the Bylaws and Rules Committee, reported that there were no additional proposed amendments
to the MTA Standing Rules at this time.
ACT ON PROPOSED AMENDEMENTS TO THE MTA BYLAWS
President Madeloni reviewed the procedures for discussing the proposed amendments to the MTA Bylaws. Gerry
Ruane, Chair of the Bylaws and Rules Committee, presented the following proposed amendments to the bylaws for
adoption. Changes to the bylaws are bold, crossed out.
PROPOSED BYLAW AMENDMENT #1:
Bylaw Article VII Nominations, Elections and Terms of Office, Section 6 (E)(2)(d)
Motion failed, by hand, to adopt Proposed Bylaw Amendment #1:
C. Election (1) The only candidates for election shall be those nominated in accordance with Sections 2B(1) or 2B(2)
above.
(2) The President and Vice President shall be elected by majority vote of the delegates at the Annual Meeting of
Delegates. In the event that a majority is lacking on the first ballot, a second ballot shall be held between the two
highest votegetters.
(2) The President and the Vice President shall be elected by mail ballot sent to all members of the MTA. A
plurality of ballots cast shall determine the winner of the election.
PROPOSED BYLAW AMENDMENT #2:
Bylaw Article IV MTA-R Lifetime Dues, Section 2 C
Voted, by hand, to adopt Proposed Bylaw Amendment #2:
Eliminate (3):
3. All MTA-R Lifetime dues shall be deposited in a special purpose fund and the income generated from this fund
shall be used to offset the operating expenses of MTA-R activities and programs.
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PROPOSED BYLAW AMENDMENT #3:
Bylaw Article IV Dues (1), Section 2. (A)(2)(a)
Motion failed, by hand, to adopt Proposed Bylaw Amendment #3:
Full-time dues and part-time dues percentages are based upon membership category.
A. Active Members
(1) Full-Time Dues
Except as provided herein, the annual dues of active members shall be the amount approved by the Annual
Meeting of Delegates.
(2) Part-Time Dues
a. The annual dues of an active member, who presents evidence of part-time employment, which is at one-half
(1/2) or less than one-half (1/2) of a full- time position in a given school system, shall be 50% 26.5% of the
annual dues of full-time active members.
PROPOSED BYLAW AMENDMENT #4:
Bylaw Article IV Dues (2), Section 2. (A)(2)(b)
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Voted, by hand, to adopt Proposed Bylaw Amendment #4:
Full-time dues and part-time dues percentages are based upon membership category.
A. Active Members
(1) Full-Time Dues
Except as provided herein, the annual dues of active members shall be the amount approved by the Annual
Meeting of Delegates.
(2) Part-Time Dues
b. The annual dues of an active member who is employed by the University of Massachusetts Trustees or
Board of Higher Education who presents evidence of part-time employment which is less than one half (1/2) of
a full-time position, shall be an amount equal to 30% 20.4% of the annual dues of full-time active members,
except that the dues for part-time active members who teach less than three (3) credits per semester shall be
15% 10.2% of the annual dues of full-time active members.
PROPOSED BYLAW AMENDMENT #5:
Bylaw Article IV Dues (3), Section 2. (A)(3)(a)(b)
Voted, by hand, to adopt Proposed Bylaw Amendment #5:
Full-time dues and part-time dues percentages are based upon membership category.
A. Active Members
(1) Full-Time Dues
Except as provided herein, the annual dues of active members shall be the amount approved by the Annual
Meeting of Delegates.
(3) Members Earning Minimal Base Salary or Minimal Annual Income
a. An MTA active member whose base salary for the employment that qualifies him or her for MTA active
membership is less than eighteen thousand dollars ($18,000) or an active MTA member whose annual
income from the employment that qualifies him or her for active membership is less than eighteen thousand
dollars ($18,000) due to an unpaid leave of absence, shall pay thirty (30%) percent 20.4% of the annual dues
of a full-time active member.
b. An MTA active member whose base salary for the employment that qualifies him or her for MTA active
membership is less than nine thousand dollars ($9,000) or an active MTA member whose annual income
from the employment that qualifies him or her for active membership is less than nine thousand dollars
($9,000) due to an unpaid leave of absence shall pay fifteen (15%) percent 10.2% of the annual dues of a
fulltime active member.
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PROPOSED BYLAW AMENDMENT #6:
Bylaw Article VIII Electoral Districts and Regions, Sections 1 (A) and 3 (A), (B) and (H)
Voted, by hand, to adopt Proposed Bylaw Amendment #6:
Section 1. Representation
A. Each electoral district shall have one District Director on the Board, with the exception of the Statewide Retired
District, the Massachusetts Community College Council District, and the Massachusetts State College
Association District.
Section 3. Criteria
A. Electoral districts and regions shall be drawn and based on mathematical compliance with the one person
one vote principle, with the exception of the Dukes-Nantucket District, the Massachusetts Community College
Council District, the Massachusetts State College Association District, and the Statewide Retired District.
B. A ratio of 1:1900 or major fraction thereof shall be used in drawing up districts with the exception of the
Dukes-Nantucket District, the Massachusetts Community College Council District, the Massachusetts State
College Association District, and the Statewide Retired District.
H. Members represented by the Massachusetts Community College Council District and the Massachusetts
State College Association District shall constitute a statewide electoral districts.
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The number of directors to which each of the districts shall be entitled shall be determined by using the ratio of
1:1900 or major fraction thereof.
PROPOSED BYLAW AMENDMENT #7:
Bylaw Article VII Nominations, Elections and Terms of Office, Section 1
Motion failed, by hand, to adopt Proposed Bylaw Amendment #7:
A.
No person may be a candidate for more than one office.
B.
All MTA Election Policies and Campaign Guidelines shall apply only to an individual member who has
been certified as a candidate. A slate or committee formed to promote a group of candidates shall
not be recognized as having the rights of a candidate.
B.C. A local affiliate shall not be represented on the Board by more than one officer. If more than one officer is
elected from the same local, the officer elected to the higher office shall prevail.
C.D. All elections shall be held by Australian or machine ballot.
D.E. When there is a contested election, each candidate may appoint a designee to observe the counting of the
ballots.
E.F.
Elected candidates shall not be seated until they have filed a report with the Credentials and Ballot
Committee giving a complete account of campaign expenditures. The Credentials and Ballot Committee
shall certify the receipt of these reports.
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ACT ON PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS
President Madeloni introduced David McGlothlin, a member of the Resolutions Committee, and explained the process
for dealing with Resolutions. Changes are bold and crossed out.
Voted, by hand, the delegates adopted the following changes to Resolutions:
PROPOSED AMENDED B-11
THE ENVIRONMENT, NATURAL RESOURCES AND CLIMATE CHANGE
The Massachusetts Teachers Association believes that preservation of natural resources is vital to the future quality
of life. The MTA also recognizes the importance of all matter within the life cycle and urges the establishment of
programs to teach students the concepts of and appreciation for the interdependence of all living organisms.
The MTA urges its members to support and teach educational programs that develop in students an understanding
of their responsibilities to all living and non-living things, positive behaviors toward the environment, and an
understanding of the need to protect the Earth’s resources. The MTA also recognizes the importance of programs
designed to improve the ecological balance and shall actively support federal, state and local programs that seek to
combat the pollution of the environment.
The MTA believes that global climate change causes significant measurable damage to the Earth and its
inhabitants. The MTA further believes that students should be taught about the impact of human behavior on global
climate change and about environmentally sound practices that lessen that impact.
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Additionally, the MTA, recognizing that alternative energy use will reduce dependence on fossil fuels, strongly urges
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and its cities and towns to actively pursue the use of alternative energy
resources. (70, 79, 80, 85, 88, 89, 91, 99, 02, 15, 16)
PROPOSED NEW B-37 (AT THE END OF SECTION B)
EDUCATION OF IMMIGRANTS
The Massachusetts Teachers Association believes that, regardless of the immigration status of students or
their parents, every student has the right to a free public education in an environment free from harassment.
The Association also believes that all parents should have equal access to all services provided by the
school system regardless of their immigration status. The Association opposes Immigration and Customs
Enforcement (ICE) operations on school property.
The Association supports access to higher education for undocumented students and access to financial
aid and in-state tuition to state colleges and universities in the states where they reside. The Association
also believes that neither educational systems nor their employees are responsible for the determination and
enforcement of legal residency status.
PROPOSED AMENDED D-16
EDUCATOR LICENSURE
The Massachusetts Teachers Association believes that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, or any independent
standards board governed by members of the profession, if one is established, is the only entity that should have the
authority to award or deny teacher educator licenses in Massachusetts.
Professional development required to maintain an educator license should be relevant, practicable and
respectful of educators’ professionalism and time. (00, 09, 16)
PROPOSED NEW F-28 (AND RENUMBER THE REST OF SECTION F)
EQUITABLE SUPPORT FOR COLLECTIVE BARGAINING
The Massachusetts Teachers Association believes that solidarity among all members of a bargaining unit
is integral to supporting and defending public educators through collective bargaining. The MTA supports
requiring all members of a bargaining unit to become dues-paying members of that unit or to pay a fair share
fee to sustain the benefits that all members receive under the collective bargaining agreement.
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RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE ELECTORAL REVIEW COMMITTEE (ERC)
President Madeloni introduced James Kierstead, Chair of the Electoral Review Committee, who presented the
Proposed MTA Electoral District & Regional Plan.
PRESENTATION OF CHARTER SCHOOL CAMPAIGN
President Madeloni presented the Save Our Public Schools Campaign. SOPS is a coalition of education, parent
and community groups charged with stopping a ballot question that will allow the state to open more charter schools
and drain millions of dollars from public school districts.
Kathy Conway, Director of Finance and Accounting Division, presented financial information regarding the Save Our
Public Schools Campaign.
ORDER OF BUSINESS
Without objection, President Madeloni moved to hold questions on Agenda Item #16 – Presentation of Charter
School Campaign and to move to Agenda Item #18 – Adopt the Supplemental Credentials Report, Agenda
Item #19 – Speeches by Candidates for President and Vice President and Agenda Item #20 – Recess. The
President proposed that in Saturday’s business session, the delegates would begin with Agenda #16A – Act on
Recommendation from the Board of Directors to Fully Fund the Save Our Public Schools Campaign, then take
up Agenda Item #17 – Act on Proposed New Business Items With/Without Budgetary Implications and then
continue with agenda items as presented in the 2016 Business Session Agenda (Attachment A).
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ADOPT THE SUPPLEMENTAL CREDENTIALS REPORT
As of 4:32 p.m., Credentials and Ballot co-chair Paul Jacobs reported that 1,400 delegates were registered.
Without objection, the delegates adopted the Supplemental Credentials Report.
SPEECHES BY CANDIDATES FOR PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT
Barbara Madeloni, Tim Sullivan and Janet Anderson, candidates running for MTA President, addressed the
delegates.
Erik Champy, Merrie Najimy and Mike Shannon, candidates running for MTA Vice President, addressed the
delegates.
END OF DAY ANNOUNCEMENTS
President Madeloni reminded the delegates of the voting locations and hours, Saturday’s events and timelines.
RECESS
The 171st Annual Meeting of Delegates recessed at 5:33 p.m.
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SATURDAY BUSINESS SESSION – MAY 14, 2016
CALL TO ORDER
The second session of the 171st Annual Meeting of Delegates was called to order at 9:05 a.m. in the Hynes
Convention Center.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
President Madeloni reviewed the general meeting procedures.
ORDER OF BUSINESS
President Madeloni reminded the delegates that the order of business had been amended on Friday and that
business on Saturday would take place in the following order.
■ Agenda Item #23 – Adopt the Supplemental Credentials Report
■ Agenda Item #23A – Verizon Worker: Matthew Lyons
■ Agenda Item #24 – Recognition and Presentation of Awards
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■ Agenda Item #25 – MTA President’s Award
■ Agenda Item #15 – Electoral Region and District Plan
■ Agenda Item #16 – Presentation of Charter School Campaign: Video
■ Agenda Item #16A - Act on Recommendation from the Board of Directors to Fully Fund the Save Our Public
Schools Campaign
■ Resume original schedule as noted with Agenda Item #26 – Act on Proposed New Business Items with Budgetary
Implications.
ADOPT THE SUPPLEMENTAL CREDENTIALS REPORT
Paul Jacobs, Co-Chair of the Credentials and Ballot Committee, announced that as of 6:00 p.m. on Friday, 1,429
delegates were registered.
Without objection, the delegates adopted the Supplemental Credentials Report.
VERIZON WORKER, MATTHEW LYONS
President Madeloni introduced Matthew Lyons, a Verizon worker. Mr. Lyons gave brief remarks to the delegates.
RECOGNITION OF THE 2016 MTA ESP OF THE YEAR AWARD
Recognition was given to Saul Ramos, Educational Association of Worcester, Inc., who had been named the 2016
MTA ESP of the Year at the April 2016 ESP Conference.
MTA SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD FOR THE RECIPIENT OF THE MASSACHUSETTS TEACHER OF THE
YEAR
Special recognition was given to the 2016 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year, Audrey Jackson of Boston Public
Schools. Ms. Jackson addressed the delegates.
MTA FRIEND OF EDUCATION
The 2016 MTA Friend of Education Award was presented to Steven Tolman, AFL-CIO President. Mr. Tolman
addressed the delegates.
MTA FRIEND OF LABOR
The 2016 MTA Friend of Labor Award was presented to Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey. Attorney
General Healey addressed the delegates.
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MTA PRESIDENT’S AWARD
The 2016 MTA President’s Award honoring student activism was presented to three students: Fania Joseph, Boston
Community Leadership Academy; Italo Fini, Worcester Technical High School; and Ruthie Page Wienbaum, AmherstPelham Regional Middle School. Ms. Weinbaum was unable to attend. Ms. Joseph and Mr. Fini addressed the
delegates.
ANNOUNCEMENT: VOICE OF TEACHERS FOR EDUCATION (VOTE)
Executive Director Treasurer Clarke reminded the delegates to contribute to VOTE.
ELECTORAL REGION AND DISTRICT PLAN
President Madeloni re-introduced James Kierstead, Chair of the Electoral Review Committee, for purpose of taking a
vote on the report he had presented Friday.
Without objection, voted to adopt the MTA Electoral District/Region Plan.
PRESENTATION OF CHARTER SCHOOL CAMPAIGN – VIDEO
President Madeloni introduced the Charter School Campaign video.
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ACT ON RECOMMENDATION FROM THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS TO FULLY FUND THE SAVE OUR PUBLIC
SCHOOLS CAMPAIGN
President Madeloni read the motion recommended by the Board of Directors to commit to and fully fund the Save
our Public Schools Campaign:
Motion to adopt the recommendation from the MTA Board of Directors that the delegates to the Annual Meeting
vote to fully commit to and to fully fund in the amount of $9.2 million the campaign to Save Our Public Schools.
The $9.2 million will come from the following sources, in this order:
■ First, funds committed to the campaign by the January 2016 vote of the Public Relations and Organizing
Committee.
■ Second, funds made available to the Public Relations and Organizing Committee for 2016-2017, also
committed to the campaign by the January 2016 vote of the committee.
■ Third, funds committed by the National Education Association.
■ Lastly, the balance to be funded by MTA Board of Directors at its June 2016 meeting by a designation from
MTA’s reserves.
Moved and seconded to postpone this matter after Agenda Item #28 – Act on Public Relations and Organizing
Campaign Budget and Dues for FY 2016-2017. (Gerald Conefrey/Debra Mullen)
Motion failed to postpone this matter after Agenda Item #28 – Act on Public Relations and Organizing Campaign
Budget and Dues for FY 2016-2017.
Moved and seconded to amend to require that the total campaign budget be limited to $9 million so that the
balance to be funded by MTA would be $1.6M. (Todd Ostrowski/Kerry Costello)
Moved and seconded to suspend the use of yellow cards and move to debate. (Charles Clarke/Jane Roderick)
Voted, by hand, to suspend the use of yellow cards and move to debate.
Motion fails to amend to require that the total campaign budget be limited to $9 million so that the balance to be
funded by MTA would be $1.6M.
Moved and seconded to suspend the use of yellow cards and end questioning. (Robert Miller/Ryan Keser)
Voted, by hand, to suspend the use of yellow cards and end questioning.
Voted, by hand, to adopt the recommendation from the MTA Board of Directors that the delegates to the Annual
Meeting vote to fully commit to and to fully fund in the amount of $9.2 million the campaign to Save Our Public
Schools. The $9.2 million will come from the following sources, in this order:
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■ First, funds committed to the campaign by the January 2016 vote of the Public Relations and Organizing
Committee.
■ Second, funds made available to the Public Relations and Organizing Committee for 2016-2017, also
committed to the campaign by the January 2016 vote of the committee.
■ Third, funds committed by the National Education Association.
■ Lastly, the balance to be funded by MTA Board of Directors at its June 2016 meeting by a designation from
MTA’s reserves.
ACT ON PROPOSED NEW BUSINESS ITEMS WITH BUDGETARY IMPLICATIONS
President Madeloni noted that New Business Item #15 – Donation to Verizon Strike Fund was the only new
business item with budgetary implications. However, President Madeloni stated to the maker of the motion, Al
Leisinger from Faculty Staff Union-UMass Boston, that she would expend funds from the presidential donation fund
for this purpose.
Al Leisinger withdrew New Business Item #15 – Donation to Verizon Strike Fund: That the MTA donate $5,000 to
the Verizon Strike Hardship Fund.
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ANNUAL OPERATING BUDGET AND DUES 2016-2017
President Madeloni instructed the delegates on the process for adopting the annual budget and dues for 2016-2017.
The adoption of the annual budget was in two parts: dues related to the Annual Operating Budget and dues related
to the Public Relations/Organizing Campaign Budget.
Janet Anderson, Vice President and Chair of the Advisory Budget Committee, reviewed the proposed Annual
Operating Budget with the delegates.
Vice President Anderson read the motion: motion to adopt the Annual Operating Budget of $45,776,576 and an
operating budget dues level of $463, based on 86,380 full-time equivalent active members for the 2016-2017 fiscal
year. Dues for secretaries, clerks, and custodians are to be $278; dues for aides, food service personnel and other
education support professionals are to be $139.
Moved and seconded to amend the operating budget to include $10,000 to fund the MassChild Program. (Christine
Mulroney/Diana Marcus)
Voted, by hand, to amend operating budget to include $10,000 to fund the MassChild Program.
Motion to adopt the Annual Operating Budget of $45,776,576 $45,786,576 and an operating budget dues level of
$463 $464, based on 86,380 full-time equivalent active members for the 2016-2017 fiscal year. Dues for secretaries,
clerks, and custodians are to be $278 $279; dues for aides, food service personnel and other education support
professionals are to be $139 $140.
Voted, by hand, to adopt the Annual Operating Budget of $45,786,576 and an operating budget dues level of $464,
based on 86,380 full-time equivalent active members for the 2016-2017 fiscal year. Dues for secretaries, clerks, and
custodians are to be $279; dues for aides, food service personnel and other education support professionals are to
be $140, as amended.
Moved and seconded to reconsider the previous vote on the Annual Operating Budget and Dues. (Kathryn
Winterson/Frances Winterson)
Motion failed to reconsider the previous vote on the Annual Operating Budget and Dues.
PUBLIC RELATIONS AND ORGANIZING CAMPAIGN BUDGET AND DUES 2016-2017
Vice President Anderson, Co-Chair of the Public Relations/Organizing Campaign Committee, gave the report of
the committee and introduced the video showing some of the activities funded by the Public Relations/Organizing
campaign over the last year.
Vice President Anderson read the motion: motion to adopt the Public Relations/Organizing Campaign Budget of
$4,319,000 and a Public Relations/Organizing Campaigns dues level of $50, based on 86,380 full-time equivalent
active members for the 2016-2017 fiscal year. Dues for secretaries, clerks and custodians are to be $30; dues for
aides, food service personnel and other education support professionals are to be $15.
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Moved and seconded to amend the motion to increase the Public Relations and Organizing Campaign dues levels
to $75; dues for secretaries, clerks, and custodians to be $30; and dues for aides, food service personnel and other
ESP to be $15. (Tim Collins/Phillip Dowgiert)
Moved and seconded to suspend the rules and end the use of yellow cards. (Margaret Charron/Kara Dougherty)
Voted, by hand, to suspend the rules and end the use of yellow cards.
ORDER OF BUSINESS
President Madeloni interrupts the proceedings to go to Agenda Item #31 – Adopt the Results of the Election.
ADOPT THE RESULTS OF THE ELECTION
Paul Jacobs, Co-Chair of the Credentials and Ballot Committee, announced the results of the election. Mr. Jacobs
reported that a runoff election will be required for the office of the MTA Vice President. Campaigning will begin from
1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. and polls will open from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. (Attachment C).
PUBLIC RELATIONS AND ORGANIZING CAMPAIGN BUDGET AND DUES 2016-2017 (CONTINUED)
Motion to amend the motion to increase the Public Relations and Organizing Campaign dues levels to $75; dues for
secretaries, clerks, and custodians to be $30; and dues for aides, food service personnel and other ESP to be $15.
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Motion failed to amend the motion to increase the Public Relations and Organizing Campaign dues levels to $75;
dues for secretaries, clerks, and custodians to be $30; and dues for aides, food service personnel and other ESP to
be $15.
Moved and seconded to amend the motion to hold Public Relations and Organizing Campaign dues at current
levels and not increase those dues. (Anneta Arygres/Thomas Goodkind)
Motion to amend adoption of the Public Relations and Organizing Campaign budget of $4,319,000 $2,591,400 and a
Public Relations Organizing Campaigns dues level of $50 $30, based on 86,380 full-time equivalent active members
for the 2016-2017 fiscal year. Dues for secretaries, clerks and custodians are to be $30 $18; dues for aides, food
service personnel and other education support professionals are to be $15 $9.
Moved and seconded to suspend the rules of using the yellow cards. (Mona Bonin/Karen Kruse)
Voted, by hand, to suspend the rules of using the yellow cards.
Voted, by standing, to amend the motion to adopt the Public Relations and Organizing Campaign budget of
$4,319,000 $2,591,400 and a Public Relations Organizing Campaigns dues level of $50 $30, based on 86,380 fulltime equivalent active members for the 2016-2017 fiscal year. Dues for secretaries, clerks and custodians are to be
$30 $18; dues for aides, food service personnel and other education support professionals are to be $15 $9.
President Madeloni announces that a teller count was requested and asks the sergeant-at-arms to close the doors.
Voted, by standing, to have a teller count.
Moved and seconded to suspend the rules to postpone teller count until 2:35 p.m. (Richard Shea/Kathy Winterson)
Motion failed to suspend the rules to postpone teller count until 2:35 p.m.
President Madeloni announces that a teller count will take place.
Voted, by teller count (320/202), to amend the motion to adopt the Public Relations and Organizing Campaign
budget of $4,319,000 $2,591,400 and a Public Relations Organizing Campaigns dues level of $50 $30, based on
86,380 full-time equivalent active members for the 2016-2017 fiscal year. Dues for secretaries, clerks and custodians
are to be $30 $18; dues for aides, food service personnel and other education support professionals are to be $15
$9.
Moved and seconded to amend $30 to $45; $18 to $24; and $9 to $12. (Mike Zilles/James Roderick)
Motion to amend the motion to adopt the Public Relations and Organizing Campaign budget of $4,319,000
$2,591,400 and a Public Relations Organizing Campaigns dues level of $30 $45, based on 86,380 full-time
equivalent active members for the 2016-2017 fiscal year. Dues for secretaries, clerks and custodians are to be $18
$24; dues for aides, food service personnel and other education support professionals are to be $9 $12.
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Moved and seconded to suspend the rules on all activity of the Public Relations and Organizing Campaign budget
until 2:35 p.m. (Peter Schoonmaker/Kerry Costello)
Voted, by hand, to suspend the rules on all activity of the Public Relations and Organizing Campaign budget until
2:35 p.m.
ORDER OF BUSINESS
President Madeloni moves to Agenda Item #29 – MTA Year in Review Video and states that new Business Items
will be reviewed until 2:35 p.m.
MTA YEAR IN REVIEW VIDEO
President Madeloni introduces the Activism Video, showing how members have taken and used their power to
make a difference opposing charter schools, testifying against high-stakes testing, working in coalitions to collect
signatures supporting revenue for public education, holding forums about opting out and attending conferences and
union events with fellow members.
ORDER OF BUSINESS
President Madeloni asks the delegation to recess until 2:35 p.m.
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Without objection, voted to recess until 2:35 p.m.
RECESS
The 171st Annual Meeting of Delegates recessed at 1:52 p.m. and will resume again at 2:35 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER
President Madeloni called the 171st Annual Meeting of Delegates to order at 2:45 p.m.
PUBLIC RELATIONS AND ORGANIZING CAMPAIGN BUDGET AND DUES 2016-2017 (CONTINUED)
Motion to amend the motion to adopt the Public Relations and Organizing Campaign budget of $4,319,000
$2,591,400 and a Public Relations Organizing Campaigns dues level of $30 $45, based on 86,380 full-time
equivalent active members for the 2016-2017 fiscal year. Dues for secretaries, clerks and custodians are to be $18
$24; dues for aides, food service personnel and other education support professionals are to be $9 $12.
Motion failed to amend the motion to adopt the Public Relations and Organizing Campaign budget of $4,319,000
$2,591,400 and a Public Relations Organizing Campaigns dues level of $30 $45, based on 86,380 full-time
equivalent active members for the 2016-2017 fiscal year. Dues for secretaries, clerks and custodians are to be $18
$24; dues for aides, food service personnel and other education support professionals are to be $9 $12.
Moved and seconded to reconsider the motion to amend the motion to establish a dues level of $30. (Andrew
Willis/Lauren Smith)
Motion to adopt the Public Relations and Organizing Campaign budget of $2,591,400 and a Public Relations
Organizing Campaigns dues level of $30, based on 86,380 full-time equivalent active members for the 2016-2017
fiscal year. Dues for secretaries, clerks and custodians are to be $18; dues for aides, food service personnel and
other education support professionals are to be $9.
Motion failed to reconsider the motion to amend the motion to adopt the Public Relations and Organizing Campaign
budget of $2,591,400 and a Public Relations Organizing Campaigns dues level of $30, based on 86,380 full-time
equivalent active members for the 2016-2017 fiscal year. Dues for secretaries, clerks and custodians are to be $18;
dues for aides, food service personnel and other education support professionals are to be $9.
Voted, by hand, to adopt the Public Relations and Organizing Campaign budget of $2,591,400 and a Public
Relations Organizing Campaigns dues level of $30, based on 86,380 full-time equivalent active members for the
2016-2017 fiscal year. Dues for secretaries, clerks and custodians are to be $18; dues for aides, food service
personnel and other education support professionals are to be $9, as amended.
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ACT ON PROPOSED NEW BUSINESS ITEMS WITHOUT BUDGETARY IMPLICATIONS
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #1 – TEACHER TENURE
Moved and seconded to adopt New Business Item #1: The MTA should actively support striking sections 3, 4 and 9
in section 42 of Chapter 131 of the Acts of 2012, Mass General Laws, which effectively eliminates teacher seniority.
The law was enacted on June 27, 2012. Sections 3 and 4 are to take effect on September 1, 2016.
■ The MTA will develop educational materials aimed at MTA members about how this will affect their
employment status. These materials should be published in MTA Today and on the website.
■ The MTA will encourage members through regular communication channels to participate in the drive to strike
those sections of the law.
■ The MTA will contact locals and help organize educational forums to inform and mobilize the membership, and
to enlist the support of parents and students.
■ The MTA will build coalitions with other affected groups, such as the American Federation of Teachers and the
Boston Teachers Union.
■ This NBI should entail no cost and could be undertaken by field service operatives in the course of their regular
duties.
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Moved and seconded to amend motion by adding that MTA will file suit challenging the constitutionality of this
segment of the law by July 1, 2016. (Patrick Barry/Maureen O’Connor)
Motion to amend was withdrawn by the maker of the motion and asked to go back to the original motion.
Moved and seconded to adopt New Business Item #1: The MTA should actively support striking sections 3, 4 and 9
in section 42 of Chapter 131 of the Acts of 2012, Mass General Laws, which effectively eliminates teacher seniority.
The law was enacted on June 27, 2012. Sections 3 and 4 are to take effect on September 1, 2016.
■ The MTA will develop educational materials aimed at MTA members about how this will affect their
employment status. These materials should be published in MTA Today and on the website.
■ The MTA will encourage members through regular communication channels to participate in the drive to strike
those sections of the law.
■ The MTA will contact locals and help organize educational forums to inform and mobilize the membership, and
to enlist the support of parents and students.
■ The MTA will build coalitions with other affected groups, such as the American Federation of Teachers and the
Boston Teachers Union.
■ This NBI should entail no cost and could be undertaken by field service operatives in the course of their regular
duties.
Voted, by hand, to adopt New Business Item #1: The MTA should actively support striking sections 3, 4 and 9 in
section 42 of Chapter 131 of the Acts of 2012, Mass General Laws, which effectively eliminates teacher seniority.
The law was enacted on June 27, 2012. Sections 3 and 4 are to take effect on September 1, 2016.
■ The MTA will develop educational materials aimed at MTA members about how this will affect their
employment status. These materials should be published in MTA Today and on the website.
■ The MTA will encourage members through regular communication channels to participate in the drive to strike
those sections of the law.
■ The MTA will contact locals and help organize educational forums to inform and mobilize the membership, and
to enlist the support of parents and students.
■ The MTA will build coalitions with other affected groups, such as the American Federation of Teachers and the
Boston Teachers Union.
■ This NBI should entail no cost and could be undertaken by field service operatives in the course of their regular
duties.
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NEW BUSINESS ITEM #2 – EVALUATION SYSTEM
Moved and seconded to adopt New Business Item #2: The MTA should actively lobby the state legislature to
repeal sections 1, 2, 5, 6, 7 and 8 of Chapter 131 of the Acts of 2012, Mass General Laws. These sections are the
basis for the current state mandated educator evaluation system. The MTA should also lobby both state and federal
legislatures to eliminate any use of student test scores as part of teacher evaluations.
■ The MTA will develop educational materials aimed at MTA members about how this system was developed
and implemented. These materials should be published in MTA Today and on the website.
■ The MTA will encourage members through regular communication channels to participate in the drive to strike
those sections of the law.
■ The MTA will contact locals and help organize educational forums to inform and mobilize the membership, and
to enlist the support of parents and students.
■ The MTA will enlist allies, such as the AFT and the Boston Teachers Union in this effort.
■ There will be no cost to this NBI, as it can be implemented by field service operatives in the course of their
regular duties.
Voted, by hand, to adopt New Business Item #2: The MTA should actively lobby the state legislature to repeal
sections 1, 2, 5, 6, 7 and 8 of Chapter 131 of the Acts of 2012, Mass General Laws. These sections are the basis
for the current state mandated educator evaluation system. The MTA should also lobby both state and federal
legislatures to eliminate any use of student test scores as part of teacher evaluations.
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■ The MTA will develop educational materials aimed at MTA members about how this system was developed
and implemented. These materials should be published in MTA Today and on the website.
■ The MTA will encourage members through regular communication channels to participate in the drive to strike
those sections of the law.
■ The MTA will contact locals and help organize educational forums to inform and mobilize the membership, and
to enlist the support of parents and students.
■ The MTA will enlist allies, such as the AFT and the Boston Teachers Union in this effort.
■ There will be no cost to this NBI, as it can be implemented by field service operatives in the course of their
regular duties.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #3 – END COMMON CORE
Moved and seconded to adopt New Business Item #3: In an effort to foster the continued delivery of rigorous,
high quality curriculum and assessment, based on Massachusetts students’ unique needs, the MTA shall formally
endorse a YES vote on the End Common Core ballot question. The MTA shall communicate its support of the
initiative with members and the community at-large, through web-based media, print mailings and publications, and
shall take steps to promote its position to voters and organizations across the Commonwealth. The endorsement is
intended to serve as a means to ensure that Massachusetts students are held to high standards and that curriculum
frameworks and assessments reflect student needs without forced alignment to the standards set forth by the
ever-dwindling Common Core Consortium. The MTA recognizes that the needs of the Consortium are not in line
with those of Massachusetts students and that upcoming development of new standardized testing tools (MCAS
2.0) should be conducted in line with students’ needs and with much-needed input from educators across the
Commonwealth.
Motion failed to adopt New Business Item #3: In an effort to foster the continued delivery of rigorous, high quality
curriculum and assessment, based on Massachusetts students’ unique needs, the MTA shall formally endorse a
YES vote on the End Common Core ballot question. The MTA shall communicate its support of the initiative with
members and the community at-large, through web-based media, print mailings and publications, and shall take
steps to promote its position to voters and organizations across the Commonwealth. The endorsement is intended to
serve as a means to ensure that Massachusetts students are held to high standards and that curriculum frameworks
and assessments reflect student needs without forced alignment to the standards set forth by the ever-dwindling
Common Core Consortium. The MTA recognizes that the needs of the Consortium are not in line with those of
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2016 MTA ANNUAL MEETING OF DELEGATES
Massachusetts students and that upcoming development of new standardized testing tools (MCAS 2.0) should be
conducted in line with students’ needs and with much-needed input from educators across the Commonwealth.
ORDER OF BUSINESS
President Madeloni interrupts the proceedings to go to Agenda Item #34 – Adopt the Results of Any Runoff
Election.
ADOPT THE RESULTS OF ANY RUNOFF ELECTION
Paul Jacobs, Co-Chair of the Credentials and Ballot Committee, announced the results of the runoff election for the
office of the MTA Vice President.
ADOPT THE FINAL CREDENTIALS REPORT
Paul Jacobs announced that as of 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, the number of delegates entitled to be present is 2,868;
the number of delegates registered is 1,647.
■ The number of local associations entitled to be in attendance is 383; the number of local associations in
attendance is 185.
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■ The number of delegates representing local associations entitled to be present is 2,494; the number of local
delegates present is 1,358.
■ The number of regional Ethnic Minority Delegates entitled to be present is 49; the number in attendance is 7.
■ The number of statewide Retired District Delegates entitled to be present is 218; the number in attendance is
209.
■ The number of state/county affiliates entitled to be present is 7; the number in attendance is 1.
■ The number of state/county delegates entitled to be present is 22; the number in attendance is 1.
■ The number of delegates entitled to be present from the Board of Directors is 71; the number in attendance is
70.
■ The number of student delegates entitled to be in attendance is 14; the number in attendance is 2.
Voted, by hand, to adopt the final credentials report of the Credentials and Ballot Committee.
ACT ON PROPOSED NEW BUSINESS ITEMS WITHOUT BUDGETARY IMPLICATIONS
(CONTINUED)
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #4 – RETIREE HEALTH INSURANCE BENEFITS
Moved and seconded to adopt New Business Item #4: Be it resolved that, the MTA shall oppose any efforts by
the Governor or Legislature that would adversely affect current and future MTA members’ health care coverage
upon retirement, including changes to the minimum eligibility age, years of service required, and/or percentage of
premiums to be paid; and the MTA shall work with unions and other allies in an effort to defeat such attacks.
The MTA shall inform all Local Presidents of this decision and its rationale, and shall post the decision and its
rationale on the MTA website.
Without objection, changed the name of the local association for the maker of the motion from Everett Teachers
Association to Revere Teachers Association.
Voted, by hand, to adopt New Business Item #4: Be it resolved that, the MTA shall oppose any efforts by the
Governor or Legislature that would adversely affect current and future MTA members’ health care coverage upon
retirement, including changes to the minimum eligibility age, years of service required, and/or percentage of
premiums to be paid; and the MTA shall work with unions and other allies in an effort to defeat such attacks.
The MTA shall inform all Local Presidents of this decision and its rationale, and shall post the decision and its
rationale on the MTA website.
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2016 MTA ANNUAL MEETING OF DELEGATES
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #5 – TEACHER EVALUATIONS
Moved and seconded to adopt New Business Item #5: The Annual Meeting of the Massachusetts Teachers’
Association rejects the K-12 Educator Evaluation System promulgated by the Massachusetts Department of the
Elementary and Secondary Education in 2011. It is arbitrarily implemented at the school and district level and
yet achieves none of the purported goals to improve teaching in the Commonwealth. It is instead used as a tool
to suppress teacher creativity, objective criticism and to muzzle union leaders. The net effect thus far has been
to increase teacher workload while adding to our already high levels of stress and job insecurity. Likewise local
associations spend inordinate amounts of time and resources first negotiating contractual terms to protect their
members from potential excesses and then defending members from evaluator actions and inactions. This same
type of evaluation system is being proposed for the Massachusetts state university and college system. As such, this
body instructs the Massachusetts Teachers’ Association in the following manner:
■ The MTA staff will inform the DESE of this resolution, and will continue its work to collect input from MTA
membership on their experiences with the evaluation process especially cases of excessive workload, increased
teacher stress and union leadership harassment.
■ The MTA bargaining support unit will collect examples of contract language to protect teachers from arbitrary
and harmful evaluation demands, share the MTA positions with parent and civic groups, participate in efforts to
develop policy, and work legislatively for protections for Massachusetts teachers and school employees. These
materials will be available to members on an MTA Teacher Evaluations Toolkit page.
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■ The MTA will develop an Evaluation Grievance Assistance Resource to support teachers who are defending
themselves from violations of contract protections by their evaluation systems, and make it available to teachers
through the Evaluation Toolkit page.
■ The MTA will act toward the effective repeal of the current evaluation system during the next 12 months and to
report back to the next Annual Meeting on the efforts made and the results achieved.
Motion was withdrawn by the maker of the motion.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #6 – FOSSIL FUEL DIVESTMENT
Moved and seconded to adopt New Business Item #6: The MTA will endorse divestment of the Pension Reserve
Investment Trust (PRIT) from existing holdings in fossil fuel companies (as defined in MA bill S. 1350) over the next
five years and cease any new investment in these companies. The MTA will publish this endorsement on its website
and in MTA Today, accompanied by a clear explanation of the legislation’s provisions and its relevance to MTA
members. The MTA will communicate its support for divestment of the pension fund from fossil fuel companies to
every state legislator and will notify its local unions, the NEA, and all other labor councils and coalitions to which
MTA belongs.
A delegate questioned the existence of a quorum. President Madeloni asked the sergeant-at-arms to call delegates
into the ballroom. The President stated that if a quorum was not established, no votes could be taken. 574 delegates
constitute a quorum.
President Madeloni announced that a teller count will take place because a quorum has been called into question.
After the teller count, President Madeloni announced that with 607 delegates present, there was a quorum.
Discussion of New Business Items #6 resumed.
Moved and seconded to suspend the rules on use of yellow cards. (Robert Miller/Andrew Willis)
President Madeloni stated that a number of delegates had left the ballroom. She questioned the presence of a
quorum and called for a teller count.
Following a teller count, President Madeloni announced that, with 524 delegates present, there was no quorum.
President Madeloni announced that no votes can be taken on agenda items that require votes.
ACT ON ADDITIONAL PROPOSED RESOLUTIONS (IF NECESSARY)
David McGlothlin, Chair of the Resolutions Committee, reported that there were no additional proposed resolutions.
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2016 MTA ANNUAL MEETING OF DELEGATES
CLOSING REMARKS
President Madeloni invited the MTA Vice President elect to address the delegates followed by Vice President
Anderson. MTA Vice President-elect Champy and MTA Vice President Anderson offered brief remarks to the
delegates.
President Madeloni made brief closing remarks to the delegates.
FINAL ANNOUNCEMENTS
President Madeloni encouraged the delegates to fill out the electronic evaluation of the Annual Meeting when they
get home. The next Annual Meeting is scheduled to convene at the Hynes Convention Center on May 5 and 6, 2017.
ANNOUNCEMENT: VOICE OF TEACHERS FOR EDUCATION (VOTE)
Jackie Gorrie, member of the Retired Members Committee, reported that a total of $4,765 was collected for VOTE
and announced the VOTE giveaway recipients.
ADJOURNMENT
The 2016 Annual Meeting of Delegates adjourned at 5:03 p.m.
A true record.
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66
ATTACHMENT A
2016 BUSINESS SESSION AGENDA
FRIDAY, MAY 13
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20.
Call to Order (Noon) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Madeloni, President, Presiding
Pledge of Allegiance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Janet Anderson, Vice President
“The Star-Spangled Banner” MTA Annual Meeting Chorus
Moment of Remembrance
Announcements
Adopt the Preliminary Credentials Report (Quorum) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Jacobs, Co-Chair, Credentials and Ballot Committee
Adopt the Order of Business
Report on Certified Candidates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Jacobs, Co-Chair, Credentials and Ballot Committee
Teacher Leadership Presentation & Awards
MTA Leadership Reports
a. Barbara Madeloni, President
b. Janet Anderson, Vice President
c. Ann Clarke, Executive Director-Treasurer
Greetings from Tom Gosnell, President of AFT Massachusetts
Act on Proposed Amendments to the MTA Standing Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Gerry Ruane, Chair, Bylaws and Rules Committee
Act on Proposed Amendments to the MTA Bylaws. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Gerry Ruane, Chair, Bylaws and Rules Committee
Act on Proposed Resolutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . David McGlothlin, Chair, Resolutions Committee
Electoral Region and District Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . James Kierstead, Chair, Electoral Review Committee
Charter School Campaign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Madeloni, President
Act on Proposed New Business Items WITH/WITHOUT Budgetary Implications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Madeloni, President
Adopt the Supplemental Credentials Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Jacobs, Co-Chair, Credentials and Ballot Committee
Speeches by Candidates for President and Vice President
Recess
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SATURDAY, MAY 14
The Saturday Session Lasts through Adjournment with No Lunch Break
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Call to Order (9 a.m.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Madeloni, President, Presiding
Announcements
Adopt the Supplemental Credentials Report. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Jacobs, Co-Chair, Credentials and Ballot Committee
Recognition and Presentation of Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Madeloni, President
a. Acknowledge the Recipient of the 2016 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year Award. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Audrey Jackson, Boston Public Schools
b. MTA Friend of Education Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steve Tolman, AFL-CIO President Massachusetts
c. MTA Friend of Labor Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Maura Healey, Massachusetts Attorney General
MTA President’s Award
Act on Proposed New Business Items with Budgetary Implications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Madeloni, President, Presiding
Act on the Budget & Dues Recommendation for FY 2016-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Janet Anderson,
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Vice President & Chair of the Advisory Budget Committee
a. Presentation and Discussion of the Recommended Operating Budget and Dues
b. Act on the MTA Annual Operating Budget and Dues
Act on the PR/Organizing Campaign Budget and Dues for FY 2016-17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Janet Anderson,
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Vice President and Co-Chair of the PR/Organizing Campaign
a. Act on the Proposed Public Relations/Organizing Campaign Budget and Dues
MTA Year in Review Video
Act on Proposed New Business Items without Budgetary Implications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barbara Madeloni, President, Presiding
Adopt the Results of the Election . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Jacobs, Co-Chair, Credentials and Ballot Committee
Adopt the Final Credentials Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Jacobs, Co-Chair, Credentials and Ballot Committee
Act on Additional Proposed Resolutions (if Necessary) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . David McGlothlin, Chair, Resolutions Committee
Adopt the Results of Any Runoff Election (if Necessary) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Paul Jacobs, Co-Chair, Credentials and Ballot Committee
Closing Comments by President Barbara Madeloni
Announcements and Points of Personal Privilege
VOTE Giveaway
Adjournment
67
ATTACHMENT B
CERTIFIED CANDIDATES
CERTIFICATION OF NOMINATION PAPERS FOR
ELECTIONS AT 2016 MTA ANNUAL MEETING
MTA OFFICERS, PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT; EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE;
BOARD OF DIRECTORS; AND RETIRED MEMBERS COMMITTEE
March 10, 2016
OFFICIAL RECORD
In accordance with ARTICLE VII of the MTA Bylaws, it is hereby certified that the candidates for the positions indicated
below have filed proper nomination papers in accordance with Article VII of the Bylaws of the Massachusetts Teachers
Association.
The order of the candidates’ names (if applicable) on this document reflects the results of the lottery conducted by the
Credentials and Ballot Committee which shall be the order of placement of certified candidates on the election ballots
at Annual Meeting.
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*Election Waiver: According to the MTA Bylaws, Standing Rules & Resolutions, Article VII, Section 3 E. (4), Section 4 E.
(4), Section 5 C. (3), Section 6 C. (3), if the number of candidates is equal to the number of seats to be filled, the election
shall be waived, and the candidate(s) declared elected. Therefore, the following candidate(s), indicated with an asterisk
(*) are elected.
MTA PRESIDENT
(One Vacancy - Two-Year Term, Commencing July 15, 2016)
Barbara Madeloni
Tim Sullivan
Janet Anderson
MTA VICE PRESIDENT
(One Vacancy - Two-Year Term, Commencing July 15, 2016)
Erik Champy
Merrie Najimy
Mike Shannon
MTA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
REGION B
(One Vacancy - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Heidi Lahey
Bernadette Marso
REGION D
(One Vacancy - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Timothy J. Dwyer
Maryann Ziemba
68
ATTACHMENT B
CERTIFIED CANDIDATES
REGION E
(One Seat - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Rebecca Cusick *
REGION H
(One Vacancy - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Candace Shivers
Dan Clawson
MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
STATEWIDE RETIRED DISTRICT
(Two Vacancies - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Lani Gerson
Anne Wass
Phyllis Neufeld
Jacqueline Gorrie
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33C
(One Vacancy - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Deborah McCarthy *
36C
(One Vacancy - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Sue Doherty
Andrea Pires
41C
(One Vacancy - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Dale Forest *
39E
(One Vacancy - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Lorraine Gagne *
40E
(One Vacancy - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Renee Vieira
Lori Silveira
12F
(One Vacancy - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Ruth Allen *
13F
(One Vacancy - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Bill Miskinis
Mary Foyle
69
ATTACHMENT B
CERTIFIED CANDIDATES
16G
(One Vacancy - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Raymond Albright *
17G
(One Vacancy - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Kristine Barker
Jim Murphy
20G
(One Vacancy - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Lea Benson
Peter Lahey
48H
(One Vacancy - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Sovann-Malis Loeung
Leslie Marsland
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49H
(One Vacancy - Three-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Carl Ericson *
RETIRED MEMBERS COMMITTEE
(Four Vacancies - Two-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Richard Liston
Mary Gilmore
Bill Coleman
Kathleen Harrigan
Kathleen Skinner
Paul McLaughlin
Eileen Cleary
Kathleen Comer
70
ATTACHMENT C
2016 OFFICIAL TABULATION OF ELECTION
OFFICIAL TABULATION OF ELECTIONS
ANNUAL MEETING OF DELEGATES | MAY 14, 2016
* = ELECTED
UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED, ONE SEAT ELECTED PER RACE
MTA PRESIDENT
(Two-Year Term, Commencing July 15, 2016)
* Barbara Madeloni
805
Timothy Sullivan
291
Janet Anderson
479
MTA VICE PRESIDENT
(Two-Year Term, Commencing July 15, 2016)
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Election One:
Erik Champy
613
Merrie Najimy
703
Michael Shannon
249
Runoff Election::
* Erik Champy
629
Merrie Najimy
595
MTA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
(Three-Year Terms, Commencing July 1, 2016)
REGION B
* Heidi Lahey
57
Bernadette Marso
33
REGION D
* Tim Dwyer
86
Maryann Ziemba
74
REGION H
*
Candace Shivers
113
Dan Clawson
141
MTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
(Three-Year Terms, Commencing July 1, 2016)
STATEWIDE RETIRED DISTRICT
(Two Seats Elected)
Lani Gerson
59
* Anne Wass
124
Phyllis Neufeld
76
* Jackie Gorrie
114
71
ATTACHMENT C
2016 OFFICIAL TABULATION OF ELECTION
DISTRICT 36C
Su Ann Doherty
10
26
* Andrea Pires
DISTRICT 40E
* Renee Vieira
15
13
Lori Silveira
DISTRICT 13F
*
*
William Miskinis
Mary Foyle
6
13
DISTRICT 17G
Kristine Barker
James Murphy
32
18
DISTRICT 20G
6
1
0
2
* Lea Benson
* Peter Lahey
8
39
DISTRICT 48H
*
Sovann-Malis Loeung
Leslie Marsland
4
14
RETIRED MEMBERS COMMITTEE
(Four Seats Elected – Two-Year Term, Commencing July 1, 2016)
* Richard Liston
* Mary Gilmore
*
*
111
80
41
85
59
33
86
49
Bill Coleman
Kathleen Harrigan
Kathleen Skinner
Paul McLaughlin
Eileen Cleary
Kathleen Comer
Elected by Waiver: If the number of candidates is equal to the number of seats to be filled, the elction shall be waived,
and the candidate(s) declared elected. Therefore, the following are elected via the election waiver:
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
(Three-Year Terms, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Rebecca Cusick, Region E
DISTRICT DIRECTORS
(Three-Year Terms, Commencing July 1, 2016)
Deborah McCarthy, 33C
Dale Frest, 41C
Lorraine Gagne, 39E
Ruth Allen, 12F
Raymond Albright, 16G
Carl Ericson, 49H
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©2017 MASSACHUSETTS TEACHERS ASSOCIATION
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ANNUAL MEETING OF DELEGATES YE72 d
AR
n
MAY 19-20
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www.massteacher.org/ameval
Scan QR code for the online evaluation