REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY
Nordonia High School
8006 S. Bedford Road
Macedonia, OH 44056
Saturday, March 25, 2017
Registration and Continental Breakfast
begin at 9:00 a.m.
Call to Order at 10:00 a.m.
Registration closes at 11:00 a.m.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Representative Assembly Agenda ..........................................................................
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Rules of Procedure for Conducting the Assembly Session .....................................
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Minutes of Assembly held November 12, 2016 ....................................................... 3-13
Final Credentials Committee Report, November 12, 2016 ...................................... 14
Nominations Committee Report .............................................................................. 15
Internal Political Action Committee Report .............................................................. 16
Elections Committee Report .................................................................................... 17-18
Environmental Concerns Committee Report ........................................................... 19
ESP Organizing Committee Report ......................................................................... 20
Leadership Development Committee Report .......................................................... 21
Legislative Committee Report ................................................................................. 22
Minority Organizing Committee Report ................................................................... 23
NEOEA-R Organizing Committee Report................................................................ 24
Personal Welfare and Finance Committee Report .................................................. 25
Professional Development Committee Report ........................................................ 26
Public Relations Committee Report......................................................................... 27-29
Resolutions Committee Report ............................................................................... 30
Social and Human Concerns Committee Report ..................................................... 31
Report of NEOEA Board of Directors and Executive Director ................................. 32
Finance Committee Report/Budget ......................................................................... 33
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NEOEA REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY AGENDA
SATURDAY, MARCH 25, 2017
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Call to Order ........................................................................................ Jeff Wensing
Pledge of Allegiance ..................................................................... Brian McConnell
Invocation ............................................................................................ Lillian Tolbert
Greetings: Nordonia Hills Educators’ Association President ............... Nate Loman
Introductions and Remarks from the NEOEA President ...................... Jeff Wensing
Preliminary Report of Credentials Committee ....................................... Lisa Lieben
Adoption of Order of Business
Adoption of Rules of Procedure
Approval of Minutes, November 12, 2016 .......................................... Lillian Tolbert
Legislative Committee Announcement .............................................. Andrew Smith
Nominations Committee Report ......................................................... Kim Richards
Speeches by Candidates on General Ballot
Report of Internal Political Action Committee .................................. Sue Messinger
Final Report of Credentials Committee ................................................. Lisa Lieben
Preliminary Report of Elections Committee ................................... Heather Gansler
Recess for Luncheon, Unit Caucuses, and Elections
Committee Reports
Environmental Concerns .............................................................. Melisa Norton
ESP Organizing ......................................................................... Diana Charters
Leadership Development ............................................................. Karen Carney
Legislative .................................................................................... Andrew Smith
Minority Organizing .................................................................. Carol Correthers
NEOEA-R Organizing ................................................................ Nancy Wonson
Personal Welfare and Finance ................................................... Diana Charters
Professional Development .......................................................... Karen Winston
Public Relations ...................................................... Larry Ellis and Jené Wilson
Resolutions .................................................................................. Kari Walchalk
Social and Human Concerns .......................................................... Becky Miller
Report of NEOEA Board of Directors and Executive Director ... Mary Alice Conkey
Action on Fiscal Year 2018 Budget ............................................... Brian McConnell
Action on New Business Items
Final Report of Elections Committee ............................................. Heather Gansler
NEA Report ........... Andrea Beeman, Jeff Rhodes, Kim Richards, HaSheen Wilson
OEA Report and Caucus ..................................................... Kecia Sanders-Stewart
OEA Officers .................................. Becky Higgins, Scott DiMauro, and Tim Myers
Adjournment
Unit meetings and voting will be held during the luncheon recess.
NOTE: Three (3) copies of new business items should be given to the Executive
Director as soon as possible. All items must be turned in before the luncheon
recess.
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RULES OF PROCEDURE FOR CONDUCTING THE
NEOEA REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY SESSION
1. DELEGATE REGISTRATION – The close of registration will be one hour after the printed
Representative Assembly starting time.
2. BASIC CONCEPT – Parliamentary procedure is designed to assist the assembly in accomplishing
its work. All members have the right to be heard, but the individual, as in any community, may at
times have to submit to the interests of the majority.
3. DISCUSSION AND DEBATE – No member shall speak more than twice on the same motion or
question. The floor will be assigned to those seeking recognition in the order in which the chair
observes them taking places at the microphones. The time limit is five minutes for each speech.
4. VOTING – Vote shall be oral (aye-no) except when the assembly indicates a desire for other
methods.
5. COMMITTEE ACTION – Any item referred to a committee must indicate the method of committee
selection (appointed or elected), the number to be placed on the committee, and when the
committee is to report.
6. DECORUM IN DEBATE – The objective is to debate ideas, not personalities. It is best to refer to
the previous speaker as “the previous speaker.”
7. PREVIOUS QUESTION – Following a motion to close debate, the chairperson shall ask for an
immediate second.
8. RULES OF ORDER – Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall be the authority governing all
matters not covered in these standing rules or any other rules of procedure adopted by the
Representative Assembly.
9. INTRODUCTION OF RESOLUTIONS AND NEW BUSINESS – Resolutions may be submitted to
the Resolutions Committee up to one hour after the printed Representative Assembly starting time.
Introduction of new business will be completed before the elections recess. All new business items
are to be written and placed in the hands of the Executive Director or designee at the time they are
presented. It is suggested that those persons desiring to introduce items of new business bring at
least 400 copies of the proposal with them to be distributed to the delegates. If this is impossible,
please mail a copy of the proposal to the NEOEA office.
10. RESOLUTION ASSISTANCE – The Resolutions Committee will meet prior to the Representative
Assembly and for one hour after the printed Representative Assembly starting time. Delegates may
ask the committee for assistance in writing new resolutions or in amending existing ones. The
committee shall recommend, subject to a final ruling of the Chair, whether submitted items are
resolutions or new business items.
11. ORDER OF RESOLUTIONS CONSIDERATION – Resolutions submitted by the Resolutions
Committee are recommendations of a standing committee. At the appropriate time in the agenda,
the reporting member will provide an opportunity for delegates to call out the letters and numbers of
resolutions to be considered separately. By asking that a recommended resolution be held, a
delegate will cause it to be considered separately. After delegates have had the opportunity to hold
proposed resolutions, those not so held will be considered in one motion to approve them.
Following the disposition of that motion, the assembly will consider the recommended resolutions
which have been held. Following the disposition of those resolutions, delegates may submit
additional resolutions from the floor, provided that a) they have been prepared in writing early
enough to be duplicated or b) written copies have been provided in sufficient number for the needs
of the assembly.
12. ORDER OF DISCUSSION – Items of new business will be numbered in the order they are presented,
and all discussion and action on these items will take place under “Action on New Business Items.”
Action required on committee reports will take place immediately following each report.
13. NEOEA CAUCUS – The meeting of the NEOEA Delegates to the OEA Representative Assembly,
or any other meeting of those delegates, shall be considered an NEOEA Caucus and shall abide by
the actions of the NEOEA Representative Assembly.
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NEOEA REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY
BROOKSIDE HIGH SCHOOL
NOVEMBER 12, 2016
MINUTES
CALL TO ORDER
NEOEA President Jeff Wensing called the NEOEA Fall Representative Assembly to
order at 9:30 a.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
NEOEA President Elect Brian McConnell led the Pledge of Allegiance.
INVOCATION
NEOEA Recording Secretary Lillian M. Tolbert gave the invocation.
President Wensing asked all veterans in attendance to stand and the delegation
thanked and applauded them for their service.
GREETINGS
Sheffield-Sheffield Lake Teachers’ Association President Andrew Smith greeted the
delegates and welcomed them to the Sheffield-Sheffield Lake District and Brookside
High School. He recognized the award-winning kitchen and cafeteria, whose workers
are all OEA members, and he thanked the staff for coming out to help. He recognized
the custodial staff for all the preparation for the RA today. He shared open access to
WiFi devices for delegates. The superintendent of the Sheffield-Sheffield Lake School
District, Mr. Michael Cook, addressed the delegates. He welcomed us to the facility and
recognized the teachers’ association for their hard work in helping to get the bond issue
passed for this beautiful building.
INTRODUCTION
President Jeff Wensing introduced Mary Alice Conkey (NEOEA Executive Director), Bill
Lavezzi (Assistant NEOEA Executive Director), Brian McConnell (President-elect), Kim
Richards (Past President), Marsh Buckley (Parliamentarian), Lillian Tolbert (Recording
Secretary), and Linda Grunden (Executive Assistant). Members of the NEOEA and OEA
Board of Directors, OEA officers, NEA Directors, NEOEA Past Presidents, and NEOEA
committee members and other special guests were introduced. First-time delegates
were asked to stand and be recognized.
The following guests were present: Mark Allison (OEA Data Specialist), Tammy Koontz
(OEA Director at-Large), Mark Hill (Central District), Sophia Rodriguez (Western OEA
District/NEA Director #2), and Phil Long (Western OEA District).
PRESIDENT’S REMARKS
President Wensing addressed the delegation. His remarks detailed the long election
week and the Election 2016 results. He thanked delegates for their tireless efforts in the
form of monetary donations, phone banking, canvassing, conversing with our neighbors
and friends, and attending rallies. He reminded delegates that our professions are
impacted by any political decisions that have been made. He reflected on the Gore
election where again the candidate who received the popular vote was not elected. He
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read a quote from candidate Hillary Clinton’s concession speech, encouraging
delegates to continue to work hard to unite the country, as well as work hard to move
our profession forward. He recognized Bill Lavezzi for his efforts in his campaign for
State Board of Education. He reminded delegates to keep fighting!
PRELIMINARY REPORT OF THE CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE
Lisa Lieben, Chairperson of the Credentials Committee, gave the preliminary
credentials report. There are a total of 227 delegates and 1 alternate for a total voting
body of 228. We have 13 guests.
ADOPTION OF ORDER OF BUSINESS
Motion (Russo/Garcia) to adopt the order of business with flexibility. Motion carried.
ADOPTON OF RULES OF PROCEDURE
Motion (Messinger/Benn) to adopt the special rules of procedure as listed on page 2.
Motion carried.
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
Motion (Tolbert/Ellis) to move the acceptance of the April 9, 2016, Spring
Representative Assembly minutes. Motion carried.
LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ANNOUNCEMENT
Andrew Smith, Chairperson of the Legislative Committee, informed delegates that the
committee will be distributing two documents: Factoid Messaging Tool Kit and the FCPE
contribution sheet. The Factoid Messaging Tool Kit is a one-sentence email or a factoid
a day given to members to get message across about FCPE. The factoids are also
available on the NEOEA website.
NOMINATIONS REPORT
Kim Richards, Chairperson of the Nominating Committee, reported that the committee
report is on page 15. Vacancies in the offices of NEOEA Units 2 and 5 Representatives
and OEA/NEOEA Unit 8 Representative will be filled at today’s Representative
Assembly.
NEOEA Unit 2 candidate Sue Messinger ran unopposed for this position and was
elected by acclamation.
Nominations from the floor for NEOEA Unit 5 were given: Barb Martini and Veronica
Wadsworth. Candidates will be able to give their speech in their unit meetings and
voting will take place during the voting recess.
The following Board of Directors positions will be filled in elections at the NEOEA
Representative Assembly on Saturday, March 25, 2017.
NEOEA Recording Secretary
NEOEA Unit 5 Representative
NEOEA Unit 8 Representative
NEOEA Higher Education Rep.-at-large
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OEA/NEOEA Unit 3 representative
OEA/NEOEA Unit 6 Representative
OEA/NEOEA Unit 9 Representative
OEA/NEOEA Unit 10 Representative
BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR REPORT
Mary Alice Conkey reported that committee chairpersons from Board Committees will
be giving their reports.
Communications and Marketing – Chairperson Lillian Tolbert reported that this
committee will hold its first meeting December 7.
Finance Committee – Financial report is on page 25 in the delegate handbook.
Brian McConnell announced that NEOEA received a clean bill on their recent
audit.
NEA Event Planning – Rob McFee reported the committee has been working on
their next event to be held in Boston in the summer of 2017. Information
regarding the event will be shared at the Spring RA.
NEOEA Day Planning – Meisha Baker reported that we had a successful NEOEA
Day. The upcoming dates for the next two years are October 13, 2017, and
October 12, 2018.
Program Coordinating Committee – Jeff Wensing reported that committees are
continuing to work hard to prepare for our NEOEA Megaconference.
Publications – Karen Wright reported everyone should have received your News
and Views by direct mail. We are on budget and will continue to send them that
way. Let committee know how that is going. We do offer special interest group
mail and forms are available at the back table. She thanked her committee
members.
Summer Leadership Committee – Amy Butcher reported the committee is working
hard to provide a great summer training. It will be held July 26-27, 2017. It will be
held at the Bertram Inn this year. The keynote speaker is an NEA Executive
Committee member who born and raised in East Cleveland and attended East
Cleveland City Schools. Excited about having him come back and speak with us.
CFC Ad Hoc Committee (Jeff Rhodes, Kecia Sanders-Stewart, and Samuel
Adu-Poku) – They gave a report on the restructuring of the CFC’s as a response
to the dissatisfaction with the work of CFC’s from members. The goal is to make
the work more meaningful. Two recommendations will be brought up at the
upcoming OEA RA and should make for great conversation.
Mary Alice Conkey reported information regarding the transition between her and Bill
Lavezzi with her fulfilling the duties in the evenings and on weekends and Bill doing
daytime coverage of the office. She thanked Linda, the other office staff, other officers
and committee members for their help with this transition. She discussed the many
volunteer hours put in by committee members that helps the Association move forward.
RESOLUTION COMMITTEE REPORT
Kari Walchalk, Chairperson of the Resolution Committee, gave report detailing the
purpose of the Resolution Committee. Sections A. through C. were reviewed and
updated, and changes are proposed to several resolutions. See items below.
Section A.
Section B.
SERVE AS THE VOICE FOR EDUCATION IN NORTHEASTERN OHIO
A-5
Thorough and Efficient Education Funding
ADVANCE THE CAUSE OF EDUCATION FOR ALL INDIVIDUALS
B-18
(Eliminated) School Buildings and Equipment
B-27
Life-Saving Techniques (moved to section C suggested: after C25) renumber as needed
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Section C.
PROMOTE THE HEALTH, SAFETY, AND WELFARE OF CHILDREN
AND/OR STUDENTS
C-5
Student Transportation
C-11
Education for Students with Disabilities
C-18
School Counseling Programs
C-21
Student Rights and Responsibilities
New C Construction/Destruction/Remodeling
or
Repurposing
of
Educational Facilities
New C Anti-Opiate Treatments
New C Medical Marijuana
The NEOEA Resolutions Committee will be holding its annual NEOEA/OEA open
hearing on Tuesday, January 10, at 6:30 p.m. Comments, recommendations, or
questions regarding the NEOEA and OEA Resolutions Document will be heard at his
time.
Motion (Walchalk) on behalf of the committee for the adoption of the changes
presented in the document except for the new C regarding Anti-Opiate Treatments.
Motion carried.
New C Anti-Opiate Treatments
We believe that governing boards of education should provide inservice training for
all staff on how to deal with recognize impaired, addicted, or overdosed students
and/or educational personnel. Such training should include the proper use of
Narcan or other anti-opiate remedies, for those seriously impaired and in danger of
dying. If available, a police officer, a school nurse, or certified medical professional
should be the initial responder. Education personnel should be held responsible if
their efforts fail to revive an overdosed person.
We also believe governing boards of education need to establish clear directives
and policies on these matters.
Motion now belongs to body so question to body is without objection to rescind the
motion. No objection and the motion has been rescinded,
Motion (Monteleone/ Baker) to amend new C Anti-Opiate Treatment to change “should”
to “must” provide in-service training for all staff on how to recognize….” in the first line.
Motion carried.
Motion (Monteleone/ Baker) remove the line beginning with “if available a police officer,
school nurse or certified medical professional should be the initial responder. Motion
(Moorer/Hudson) to close debate. Motion carried. Motion on floor failed.
Motion (McMillan/ Cohan) to change the second to last line of New C Anti-Opiate
Treatment: Education personnel will not be held responsible or liable if their efforts fail
to revive an overdosed person. Motion carried.
Motion (Walchalk, on behalf of committee) to move to approve new C Anti-Opiate
Treatment as amended. Motion carried.
We believe that governing boards of education should must provide inservice
training for all staff on how to deal with recognize impaired, addicted, or
overdosed students and/or educational personnel. Such training should include the
proper use of Narcan or other anti-opiate remedies, for those seriously impaired
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and in danger of dying. If available, a police officer, a school nurse, or certified
medical professional should be the initial responder. Education personnel should
be held responsible or liable if their efforts fail to revive an overdosed person.
We also believe governing boards of education need to establish clear directives
and policies on these matters.
She recognized the work of the committee members and invited delegates to join the
committee.
Louisville Education Association is on strike, and we have one of their members here
today—Laura Esposito—who will give us information regarding the strike. Referred to
Strongsville strike and said they are pulling support from what they did previously. Two
major issues fighting for are evaluation and reduction in force; major job security issues.
Currently have eight days out on the line, and members are standing strong and they
appreciate the support. At a standoff right now, as the Board expects us to accept the
fact-finding report and we want them to come back to the table. “LEA Ohio” is their
Facebook page and feel free to log in to have updates.
CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS COMMITTEE
Teri Mackey, Chairperson of the Constitution and Bylaws Committee thanked Bill
Lavezzi and his hard work and knowledge in helping with the work of the committee and
reported that the committee received petitions proposing the following amendments:
Proposal #1: To amend the NEOEA Bylaws by establishing a procedure to fill a
vacancy in the office of Immediate Past President.
Rationale: In order for someone to effectively step into the office of Past-President, the
appointment of a replacement is limited to those with experience.
Proposed new language: In 5-5, Vacancies in the Office President, Immediate Past
President, President-elect, or Recording Secretary
Motion (Mackey, on behalf of the committee) to move for approval for Proposal 1.
Motion carried.
c.
A vacancy in the office of Immediate Past-President shall be filled by a
temporary appointment of the President with a two-thirds approval of
the Board of Directors: first by a former Past President, second by a
current Director, and last by a former Director. The term of office for the
temporary Past-President shall extend only until the next RA, when a
Past-President shall be elected to serve an unexpired term.
Proposal #2: To amend the NEOEA Bylaws to permit the terms of office to match
the terms used by the Ohio Education Association.
Rationale: Currently, OEA terms run July 15-July 14. NEOEA terms run September 1August 31. This results in confusion for OEA/NEOEA Board of Directors who may be in
flux from July 14-August 31 with one term (OEA) expired and the other (NEOEA)
unexpired.
Motion (Mackey, on behalf of the committee) to move for approval for Proposal 2.
Motion carried.
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Proposed new language: In 5-13e, The Election of Officers
5.
All newly elected officers shall take office as of July 15 except as
otherwise provided herein of this Constitution and these Bylaws.
Motion (Mackey, on behalf of the committee) to approve proposed new language in 513e. Motion carried.
FINAL REPORT OF THE CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE
Lisa Leiben reported that at the close of registration at 10:00 a.m. there were 252
delegates seated and 1 alternate with a total voting body of 253, 9 guests and 6 nondelegates and committee members for a total of 268 in attendance.
Motion (Leiben/Committee) to accept the final report of the Credential Committee.
Motion carried.
PRELIMINARY REPORT OF ELECTIONS COMMITTEE
Heather Gansler, Chairperson of the Elections Committee, announced that delegates to
the NEOEA Representative Assembly will vote today on an endorsement for the
position of OEA Director at-Large. Tamika Moss has applied for the NEOEA
endorsement.
Units 5 delegates will caucus today to fill a vacancy for their NEOEA Unit
Representative.
There are also two Bylaws amendments to be considered.
The polls will close 20 minutes after President Wensing declare the voting break.
INTERNAL POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE REPORT
Sue Messinger, Chairperson of the Internal Political Action Committee, gave the IPA
report, which is located on page 16. The Internal Political Action Committee met on
Tuesday, October 25, 2016, to screen Tamika Moss, candidate for OEA Director atLarge. Tamika, from East Central OEA, is a 20-year educator with Canton City Schools.
She is dedicated and hardworking, and feels her most important role will be to be a
strong voice for the membership. Your IPA Committee members voted to recommend
NEOEA endorse Tamika Moss for OEA Director at-Large.
POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE
Collected $2,089 for Louisville Education Association. Please see the flyer requesting
other donations. The local representative thanked the delegation for the donation.
RECESS FOR UNIT CAUCUSES AND ELECTIONS
The assembly recessed at 11:35 a.m. and reconvened at 12:05 p.m.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #1
Motion (Loman/Ventre) The delegates, Board of Directors, and officers of the
Northeastern Ohio Education Association hereby express their appreciation to the
Sheffield-Sheffield Lake Teachers’ Association, the Sheffield-Sheffield Lake Classified
Employees Association, and the Sheffield-Sheffield Lake City Schools for their
hospitality in hosting the fall 2016 NEOEA Representative Assembly. Motion carried.
Sheffield-Sheffield Lake Representatives were given certificate of appreciation.
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COMMITTEE REPORTS
Education Support Professionals Organizing – Printed on page 37. Diana
Charters reported working on Megaconference sessions; will be having two
sessions. Fund-raising is long-sleeved hoodie to help fund scholarships. Drew
winner for gift card raffle.
Environmental Concerns – Printed on page 38. Melissa Norton reported
information regarding four events they will put on this year (Wine and Beer tour,
Green School Award, Cycling Tour, and Megaconference); she invited all to
attend.
Leadership Development – Printed on page 39; Karen Carney reported the
committee hosted the President plus Two NEOEA Day Negotiations Conference
and invited delegates to attend the Megaconference in March. She encouraged
delegates to continue to participate in committees and encouraged others to join
committees.
Legislative – Printed on pages 40-41. Andrew Smith reported the committee has
been hard at work with advocacy efforts. They will host a Megaconference
session related to running for local school boards. Presented the following
Political Action Awards:
Highest Total Contributions:
Lakewood TA – $14,684.55
Brunswick EA – $10,604.25
Willoughby-Eastlake TA – $9,885.24
East Cleveland EA – $8,911.00
Twinsburg E. A. – $6,023.80
Highest Average Contribution per Member:
East Cleveland EA – $46.17
Clearview EA – $42.36
Cardinal EA – $37.48
Lakewood TA – $31.44
Field Local TA – $30.34
Highest Percentage of Member Donors:
Field Local TA – 96.8%
Clearview EA – 91.0%
Vermilion TA – 86.6%
Cardinal EA – 84.3%
East Cleveland EA – 67.9%
Minority Organizing – Printed on page 42. Carol Correthers reported the
Megaconference session will be on Cultural Competency. Offering of
scholarships to the NEA Minority Leadership Training to be held January 27-29.
She asked delegates to save the date for next year’s NEOEA Day event to the
Underground Railroad Tour in Cincinnati.
NEOEA-R Organizing – Printed on page 43. Nancy Wonson encouraged delegates
to join lifetime retired membership which is now $350. Announced raffle winner:
Paul Gucwa.
Personal Welfare and Finance – Printed on page 44. Dennis Lewis reported details
about their many sessions for Megaconference. Program for NEOEA Day next
year dealing with personal financial planning.
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Professional Development – Printed on page 45. Pam Knox detailed information
regarding the committee’s Megaconference sessions. She thanked committee
members for all their work.
Public Relations – Printed on page 46-47. Jené Wilson reported the winners of the
2015-16 Communications Contest:
Willoughby-Eastlake TA – WETA News
Brunswick ESP Assn. – Brunswick ESP
Association Newsletter
Winner – Medium Local ($50): Field Local TA – In Talk
Winner – Small Local ($50):
Garfield EA – GEA Quarterly
Grand Prize Winner ($100):
Winner – Large Local ($50):
Honorable Mention:
East Cleveland Education Association – Communiqué
Mayfield Education Association – MEA News and Views
Riverside Local Education Association – RLEA Newsletter
Twinsburg Education Association – Update
Warren Education Association – WEA News
Warren Secretarial Association – WSA Newsletter
Following are the newest winners of the Five Star Local Award:
Barberton EA
Medina City TA #
Bay TA #
Mentor TA
Bedford EA
Nordonia Hills Educators’ Assn. #
Brunswick EA #
North Ridgeville EA
Brunswick ESP Assn.
North Royalton EA #
Cardinal EA
Painesville City TA
Champion EA #
Parma EA
Chardon EA
Riverside Local EA
Clearview EA #
Sheffield-Sheffield Lake TA #
Cuyahoga Heights Assn. of Teachers Southeast Local District TA #
East Cleveland EA #
Streetsboro EA #
Elyria EA #
Tallmadge TA #
Euclid TA
Twinsburg EA #
Field Local TA #
Vermilion TA #
Garfield EA #
Wadsworth SSA *
Garfield Heights TA
Warren EA #
Howland Classroom TA
Warrensville EA
Lakewood TA
Wellington Support Staff Assn.
Lorain EA
Westlake TA
Maple Heights TA #
Willoughby-Eastlake TA #
Youngstown EA
*indicates first time award recipient
# indicates local received all six stars available
Social and Human Concerns – Printed on page 48. Suzie Neff reported the
committee is working on a year of social justice, the new campaign this year is
“LOVE YOUR LABOR AND YOUR NEIGHBOR.” Working on having a table at
every event and hosting a Megaconference session. She thanked all committee
members and participation at the back table. The winner of the raffle ($25 gift
card) at the table was Tammy Segulin.
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POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE
Thanked the committees for the Five-Star Local Awards and the PR mini-grant.
Encouraged the continuation of these as they help locals fight the fight and reach out to
their communities.
NEA REPORT
Jeff Rhodes, Sophia Rodriguez, Kim Richards, and Andrea Beeman were in
attendance. Detailed information regarding their last meeting in Washington, D.C.
Lobbied on the hill regarding ESSA and the budget. NEA will be hosting a series of
webinars regarding ESSA. You can register for these on the NEA website. Three
observances while in DC; Solidarity Withstanding Rock, Hispanic /Latino Observance
with the discussion of Institutional Racism and American Indian/Alaska Native
Observance. Three ballot initiatives where monies were given to fight battles and were
successful in all three: Massachusetts was given $3 million to fight charter schools,
Georgia was given $1.9 million to fight the takeover of schools, and Oregon $1 million to
increase corporate taxes to be used for education spending.
Save the dates for the following events;
NEA Leadership Summit
2/24-2/26
ESP Conference
3/10-3/12
Retired Conference
3/21-3/23
MLT/WLT (East)
1/27-1/29
Orlando, Florida
Dallas, Texas
Dallas, Texas
Orlando, Florida
OEA OFFICERS’ REPORTS
Scott DiMauro (OEA Vice President), Tim Myers (OEA Secretary-Treasurer), and Becky
Higgins (OEA President). They are attending a previously scheduled out of town
meeting so they sent a document for President Wensing to read to the delegation. The
letter began with an apology for not being able to attend our RA and discussed how the
organization plans to move forward after the 2016 election results. They are in the
process of examining post-election results detailing how our members voted. OEA will
continue to build relationships with elected officials of both parties as we prepare for the
new attacks that will be coming to public education. We were successful with the
campaigns of some our OEA-endorsed candidates with 45 of our 65 endorsed
candidates being elected. They thanked Bill Lavezzi for his campaign as State Board of
Education even though he was not elected. Reminded delegates that we will continue
working on Core Values that unite our association including democracy, inclusion,
collective action, fairness, integrity, and professionalism. They encouraged delegates to
help Louisville Education Association while they bargain their contract. Thanked
delegates for their activism during the 2016 campaign.
OEA REPORT AND CAUCUS
OEA Board of Directors Kecia Sanders-Stewart gave the report and detailed information
regarding the upcoming OEA Fall RA. It will be held at the Ohio Expo Center in Cardinal
Hall. Parking will not be a problem if you get there before other events being held
concurrently (the other events begin at 10:00 a.m.). She gave information regarding a
30-minute lunch break that will take place. You may only bring snacks into the facility;
other food will be sold; bringing cash would expedite service. Only one person running
for a position, and, if there are no other nominations from the floor, voting will not be
necessary and the person will be elected by acclamation. A new card system will be
11
used during time devoted for New Business Item and that process was reviewed.
Seating will be by districts so look for signs detailing where NEOEA will be seated (near
microphone 3).
LEGISLATIVE REPORT – HANK HAYNES
Hank Haynes gave the legislation report, from the yellow section of the Delegate
Handbook. He went through the 11 changes (in bold lettering) in the booklet.
POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE
Andrew Smith on behalf of the Legislative Committee thanked the delegation for the
FCPE contribution of $3,738.
NEW BUSINESS ITEM #2
Motion (Rhodes, on behalf of the NEOEA BoD) to move support of the statement of
new business item, to move effectively and immediately that OEA will begin the
implementation of the action plan and program to provide OEA LGBT members
employment protection equal to those provided to OEA members covered by locally
bargained contracts. Said plan will be an association wide plan and program designed
to gain equal employment rights for OEA GLBT members through the collectively
bargained process at the local level. The program will involve all facets of the
Association and will continue until all OEA GLBT members are covered by local contract
provisions protecting them from employment discrimination and harassment. At a
minimum, the plan will include annual evaluation of local bargaining contracts for
language supporting GLBT employment rights and protection, the development and
dissemination of idea local contract language for GLBT issues, training of local
association leaders and OEA staff on how to effectively bargain GLBT issues, the
creation of an OEA GLBT Advisory Council similar to the Affirmative Action Advisory
Council charged with the singular responsibility of evaluating the effectiveness and
success of the plan and programs and to officially issue an annual report to be made to
the Board of Directors and the RA in May, 2017 meeting and until after GLBT members
have all achieved equal employment rights. Motion carried.
POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE
Heather Gansler, daughter of Bill Lavezzi, thanked delegation for support of the
campaign for Bill for Board (Bill Lavezzi running for State Board of Education).
POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE
Leslie Frank asked for a moment of silence to recognize the passing of fellow delegate,
Pat Cohen, in June of this year.
ELECTIONS
Heather Gansler, chairperson of the Elections Committee, gave the final elections
report.
OEA Director at Large – There were 231 votes cast and 118 votes that were
needed to declare a winner. Votes cast to endorse Tamika Moss were 182, and
votes cast for “no endorsement” were 52. The delegates voted to endorse
Tamika Moss.
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NEOEA Unit 5 – There were 22 votes cast, and 12 votes were needed to elect a
winner. Barbara Martini received 14 votes, and Veronica Wadsworth received 8
votes. Delegates voted to elect Barb Martini.
Bylaw Amendments:
Proposal 5-5C – There were 237 votes cast, and 119 votes needed to adopt.
Votes for adoption were 225, and no adoption was 12 votes. Delegates voted
to adopt proposal 5-5C.
Proposal 5-13e5 – There were 234 votes cast, and 118 needed to adopt. Votes
for adoption were 230 votes, and 4 votes for no adoption. Delegates voted to
adopt proposal 5-13e5.
Motion for approval of final election committee reports. Motion carried.
POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE
Bill Lavezzi thanked delegation for support of his candidacy for State Board of
Education. Detailed information regarding what we learned from the campaign in District
11 and the difficulties of running a campaign in that district.
ADJOURNMENT
President Jeff Wensing adjourned the meeting without objection at 1:18 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Lillian M. Tolbert
NEOEA Recording Secretary
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FINAL CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE REPORT
NOVEMBER 12, 2016
The Credentials Committee seated 252 delegates and 1 alternate for a voting body of
253. Fourteen non-delegate committee members and 6 visitors were also registered for
a total attendance of 273.
Unit
Preliminary Count
Delegates
Alternates
Total
Final Count
Delegates
Alternates
1
2
3
4
23
25
32
16
23
25
32
16
25
28
40
18
5
23
23
23
23
6
7
8
9
10
27
13
22
5
9
27
13
22
5
9
27
15
24
9
9
27
15
24
9
9
Higher Ed
3
3
4
4
BVO
OEA-R
Past
Presidents
Students
Totals
6
11
6
12
6
12
6
12
12
12
12
12
0
227
0
228
0
252
0
253
1
1
Non-Delegate
Committee
Members
Visitors
Preliminary Count Total
7
6
241
1
Total
1
Non-Delegate
Committee
Members
Visitors
Final Count Total
26
28
40
18
14
6
273
Members of the Committee:
Lisa Lieben, Chairperson, Lorain EA
Pamela Barnes, Warrensville EA
Andrea Beeman, Maple Org. Support Team
Amy Butcher, Westlake TA
Sharron Callahan, Cardinal EA
Carol Correthers, Lorain EA
Lynnette Harris, ACCESS-R
Shelley Marchand, Youngstown EA-R
Candiss Poles-Ducksworth, Maple Hts. TA
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Janet Smart, Howland Classroom TA-R
Donna Smoot-Walters, Barberton EA-R
Yvette Thomas, Warrensville EA
John Veverka, Fairport Harbor EA-R
Veronica Wadsworth, Warren EA
Beverly Woolridge, Akron Assoc. of
Classified Prof.-R
Annie Zahradnik, Painesville City TA
NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE REPORT
MARCH 25, 2017
The following individuals have declared candidacy for the positions listed, which will be
filled by election at the NEOEA Representative Assembly on Saturday, March 25, 2017,
at Nordonia High School. Nominations were due by Monday, January 9, 2017, but may
be made from the floor at the RA.
NEOEA Recording Secretary
(term ends August 31, 2020)
NEOEA Unit 5 Representative
(term ends August 31, 2020)
NEOEA Unit 8 Representative
(term ends August 31, 2020)
NEOEA Higher Education Representativeat-Large
(term ends August 31, 2020)
OEA/NEOEA Unit 3 Representative
(to fill vacancy until August 31, 2020)
OEA/NEOEA Unit 6 Representative
(term ends August 31, 2020)
OEA/NEOEA Unit 9 Representative
(term ends August 31, 2020)
OEA/NEOEA Unit 10 Representative
(term ends August 31, 2020)
Lillian Tolbert
Barbara Martini
Jason Scherer
Diana Beebe
Marchell Josie
Reneé Augusta
Rob McFee
Barbara Armour
Tammy LaPlante
Members of the Committee:
Kim Richards, Chairperson
Kathy Abrahamson, unit 10
Samuel Adu-Poku, Higher Ed
JoNell Fox, unit 9
Julie Garcia, unit 1
Nate Loman, unit 7
Barbara Martini, unit 5
Rob McFee, unit 6
Susan Messinger, unit 2
Suzie Neff, unit 4
Jason Scherer, unit 8
Irene Spraggins, unit 3
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INTERNAL POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE REPORT
MARCH 25, 2017
The Internal Political Action Committee met Sunday, March 12, 2017, to screen several
candidates running for office.
The committee first interviewed Emilly Osterling of Southwest OEA, who is seeking reelection to the NEA Director #1 position she has held for the past 3½ years. Emily has
been an Intervention Specialist for 16 years and works for the Lakota School District.
She feels her main efforts will be to focus on the preservation of collective bargaining,
ESSA and the reauthorization of IDEA, and to work against the expansion of vouchers.
The IPA Committee voted to recommend NEOEA endorse Emilly Osterling for NEA
Director #1.
We then interviewed Sophia Rodriguez of Western OEA, who is running for re-election
as NEA Director #2. She has been a Director on the NEA Board for two years and is a
16-year Spanish Instructor for Coldwater Exempted Village Schools. She is a proponent
of using “our collective voices to challenge educational obstruction, create progressive
educational language, and share our learning stories to enhance understanding.” The
IPA Committee voted unanimously to recommend NEOEA endorse Sophia Rodriguez
for NEA Director #2.
Tamika Moss of East Central OEA is an OEA Director-at-large elected in November
2016, and she is running for re-election to that position. She is a 20-year educator with
Canton City Schools and sees her main goal as being a bridge between OEA and locals
and their members. The IPA Committee voted to recommend NEOEA endorse Tamika
Moss for OEA Director-at-large.
Finally, the Committee interviewed two candidates for OEA ESP Director-at-large: Mary
Hargreaves of Western OEA, who is a Paraprofessional with Montgomery County ESC,
and Cheryl Williams of Central OEA, who is an Administrative Secretary with Dublin City
Schools. We spoke with Cheryl Williams by phone (she was attending the NEA ESP
Conference in Dallas, TX), and her main goals will be to assist in uniting and advocating
for all members throughout the state. Williams was previously a Cook and a Teacher’s
Aide, and she was a member of her association’s Negotiations Committee from 2010-17
and is their current President. We interviewed Mary Hargreaves next. She is member
and President of their wall-to-wall local, where teachers and ESPs are under the same
agreement. She feels she will bring a unique perspective to the position and wants to
increase awareness of the work ESPs do. After deliberation regarding these two
accomplished candidates, the IPA Committee voted to recommend NEOEA endorse
Mary Hargreaves for OEA ESP Director-at-large.
Members of the Committee:
Susan Messinger, Chairperson, Parma EA
Michelle Augusta, Willoughby-Eastlake TA
Rich Foulk, Lorain EA-R
Joel Gleason, Clearview EA
Leah Kasmenn, Euclid TA
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William Noice, Hudson EA-R
Julia Papcke-Russell, Bay TA
Jeff Rhodes, North Royalton EA
Danielle Russo, Mentor TA
ELECTIONS COMMITTEE REPORT
MARCH 25, 2017
The OEA Representative Assembly will elect statewide officials on Friday, May 12, 2017.
Nominees who have applied for NEOEA’s endorsement today in that election are:
 Emilly Osterling for Ohio NEA Director #1;
 Sophia Rodriguez for Ohio NEA Director #2;
 Tamika Moss for OEA Director-at-large; and
 Mary Hargreaves and Cheryl Williams for OEA ESP Director-at-large.
In a general election, delegates will decide on those endorsements and elect an NEOEA
Recording Secretary and an NEOEA Higher Education Representative-at-large.
In addition, elections will be held in electoral units 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10; delegates in units
with contested elections will vote in caucus. (Additional nominations are taken from the
floor. After nominations have been closed, delegates have the authority to elect unopposed
candidates by acclamation and avoid taking a paper ballot.)
NEOEA Campaign and Election Rules
NEOEA Policy 4.05, revised March 4, 2017:
a.
Candidates’ speeches at the Representative Assembly will be limited to three (3)
minutes each. Order of speeches to be determined by the Elections Committee.
b.
Delegate names and addresses will be available to candidates at the NEOEA office.
Copies will be sent upon request according to established procedures of the NEOEA
office.
c.
Gifts of material value are prohibited. Badges, buttons and ribbons may be distributed.
Information relative to the candidate, the candidate’s platform, or statements on issues
before the Assembly shall be printed on single sheets of paper no larger than 8½” by
11”, and shall contain the name of the source and sponsor. Pictures and slogans may
be included in such information.
d.
Distribution of campaign materials is prohibited in the assembly hall and in the polling
areas, except for OEA/NEOEA Board of Directors candidates to be elected within
specific units at the NEOEA Representative Assembly, who may distribute materials in
the polling area.
e.
The Elections Committee will require removal of campaign material before entering the
polling area.
f.
Campaign material (posters, banners, computer printouts, e-mail, endorsements, etc.)
shall contain the name of the source/sponsor, including caucuses and other special
interest groups. Use of the NEOEA, OEA, NEA or UEP logo on materials used to
promote the candidacy of any individual or individuals is PROHIBITED. Display all
campaign materials under “Meet the Candidates” sign. Posted materials will be limited
to five (5) posters no larger than 14” x 22”. One of these may be placed in the
designated area, which will be determined approximately one (1) hour prior to the
beginning of the assembly and all campaign materials should be held until that time.
(The cafeteria will probably be the designated area for campaign posters if it is
possible.) No posters may be placed in or adjacent to the polling area.
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g.
Audio-visual presentations are prohibited except during the three-minute speech.
h.
Campaign materials must be removed by the candidate before the close of the
assembly.
i.
At the fall meeting, the polls will be open for twenty (20) minutes. At the spring
meeting, the polls will be open one-half (½) hour. At both meetings, polls will close
promptly at the designated time.
j.
Voting passes shall clearly reflect unit of representation. Unit elections will be on
separate ballots.
k.
Candidates may appoint observers. The Elections Committee must be notified of such
appointments (by name) in writing prior to the day of the election. Candidates must
notify the NEOEA Executive Director, who will transmit their written notices to the
Elections Committee. Exception: Candidates nominated from the floor may appoint an
observer. Same courtesy is extended to the candidate previously running unopposed.
Observers will remain in the elections headquarters until election results are officially
announced.
l.
Delegates must present the official voting pass in order to receive ballots. Under no
conditions will any delegate be permitted to vote without an official voting pass.
Delegates must retain the voting pass for possible runoff elections. Proxy voting will
not be permitted.
m.
With the approval of the President, the committee may enlist temporary election aides.
Ballots will be counted at the direction of the Elections Committee. Results will be
posted outside the meeting hall after the official announcement is made. A list of the
winners will be given to News & Views. Candidates who cannot remain until the end of
the assembly shall provide the Elections Committee with a stamped, self-addressed
envelope so results can be mailed at the end of the assembly.
n.
In the event no candidate receives a majority of votes on the first ballot, a runoff
election will be held as soon as possible between the two (2) candidates receiving the
greater number of votes.
o.
Any election problem(s) unable to be resolved in accordance with NEOEA policy will
be referred to the OEA Secretary-Treasurer for resolution.
p.
Consistent with the OEA Constitution, write-in voting shall be prohibited in all
elections.
Members of the Committee:
Heather Gansler, Chairperson, Bedford EA
Kathy Abrahamson, Newton Falls ACE
Beryl Burkle, Bedford EA-R
Joyce T. Cyrus, East Cleveland EA-R
Carol Dolgosh, Lakewood TA-R
Joyce Hives, East Cleveland EA-R
Richard Javorek, Brunswick EA-R
18
Marchell Josie, East Cleveland EA
Tim Matheson, Midview EA-R
Tom Moscovic, Willoughby-Eastlake TA-R
Connie Murray, Bedford EA
Melanie Podojil, Parma EA
David Saywell, Euclid TA-R
ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS COMMITTEE REPORT
MARCH 25, 2017
The Environmental Concerns Committee remains focused on promoting environmental
awareness for NEOEA members, students, and communities. Activities planned for this
year include the following:
● Due to three terrific projects submitted for the Green School Award, the Committee
decided to award the prizes as follows:
Best Overall Program:
Damascus Elementary, West Branch EA
Best Garden Program:
Bluestone Elementary, Euclid TA
Best Recycling Program: Norton Primary, Norton CTA
● A “Grown-Up Green Tour” was held on January 28, 2017, on the Cuyahoga Valley
Scenic Railroad. We met with local author Peter Chakerian who spoke with us about
his book Cleveland Beer: History & Revival in the Rust Belt and then sampled some
locally-crafted beverages with food pairings.
● We sponsored a Megaconference session about Adopt-A-Spot. Our presenter was
Rita Chahda-Gonzalez from Lakewood TA. John Dutton from East Cleveland EA
offered lead testing information during the conference.
● The Green Tour is scheduled for April 22, 2017, at Edgewater Park in Cleveland.
This is a family-friendly biking event; however, no pets will be permitted as per park
rules.
Please see News and Views for our schedule of activities. The committee meetings are
held in a variety of manners: on site at the NEOEA office, off-site in green locations, as
well as via conference call and web-conferencing. New members, ideas, and
suggestions are always appreciated.
Members of the Committee:
Melisa Norton, Chairperson, Euclid TA
Ray Patacca, consulting member,
Greater Cleveland Aquarium
Benjamin Beukeman, Euclid TA
Rita Chahda-Gonzalez, Lakewood TA
John Dutton, East Cleveland EA
JoNell Fox, Wadsworth SSA
Georgia Hackney, Euclid Class. Trans. Assn.
Melanie Hameed, Warren EA
Norman Hillstrom, Mentor TA-R
Steven Mitchell, East Cleveland EA
Doug Sommers, Garfield Hts. TA
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ESP ORGANIZING COMMITTEE REPORT
MARCH 25, 2017
The ESP Organizing Committee is committed to promoting ESP issues pertaining to
their jobs and to assure they get the tools they need to succeed.
This year the committee sponsored two sessions at Megaconference. We have also
been discussing ESSA and its implementation.
Our scholarship fund provided three scholarships to the NEA ESP Conference in Dallas,
Texas. The three scholarships winners were Michelle Abrams, Maple Organization
Support Team; Rhonda Ferguson, Akron Association of Classified Personnel; and
Jennifer Hein, Brunswick Education Support Professionals Association.
The next ESP Organizing meeting will be April 8, 2017, where our three scholarship
winners will be our guests and report on their experience at the NEA ESP Conference.
Members of the Committee:
Diana Charters, Chairperson, Ashtabula
ACSE
Kathy Abrahamson, Newton Falls ACE
Barbara Armour, Brunswick ESP Assn.
Andrea Beeman, Maple Org. Support Team
Barbara Catalano, Mayfield EA-R
JoNell Fox, Wadsworth Support Staff Assn.
Martha Harper, Ashtabula ACSE-R
Matthew Hickman, Willoughby-Eastlake
Class. Prof.
Karla Hopkins, Maple Org. Support Team
Debbie Jefferson, Euclid Classified Trans.
Assn.
20
Tammy LaPlante, Ashtabula ACSE
Adele Matias, Mayfield EA-R
Linda Pollock Mueller, Wadsworth
Support Staff Assn.
Michele Puskar, Mayfield Assn. of
Support Personnel
Beverly Woolridge, Akron Assoc. of
Classified Prof.-R
Karen Wright, Wellington Support Staff
Ralph Wright, Wellington Support Staff-R
Diana, Zaverl, Willoughby-Eastlake
Class. Prof.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE REPORT
MARCH 25, 2017
The Leadership Summit that was scheduled for April 6, 2017, has been cancelled for
this year to allow time for other trainings. The Committee will revisit this issue next year.
On Friday, June 9, NEOEA will sponsor a cookout at the NEOEA office to provide local
leaders the opportunity to see the variety of local supports and benefits available
through NEOEA. Please plan to attend to broaden your leadership skills with the
abundance of resources available to local leaders and members through NEOEA district
events.
On March 4 the NEOEA Megaconference was held at Corporate College, with
Leadership Development hosting ten sessions. We are pleased to announce that over
300 members attended this conference, which makes it the second most highly
attended! Sessions included many hot topics for bargaining to include: Impact of OTES
changes, OEA Policy and Positions around ESSA, and healthcare. Additional sessions
were presented on General Fund Analysis, Building Diversity, Changing Environments
and Working in a Consensus Environment. The legal update focused on Licensure
Code of Ethics and Avoiding Financial Improprieties. Please plan to register for the
Megaconference next year to gain insight on the latest trends facing employees in
public education.
Members of the Committee:
Karen Carney, Chairperson, Campbell EA
Sharron Callahan, Cardinal EA
Nanci DiBianca, Cuyahoga Hts. A of T-R
Martha Dunford, Perry EA-R
Matt Fundak, Willoughby-Eastlake TA
Stephani Itibrout, Medina City TA
Debbie Jefferson, Euclid Class. Trans.
Assn.
Marchell Josie, East Cleveland EA
Sherri Koncilja, Painesville City TA-R
Nate Loman, Nordonia Hills EA
Ellen Rybak, Garfield EA
Susan Selby, Olmsted Falls EA
Sandy Smith-Fischer, Streetsboro EA
Pat Wagar, Mayfield EA-R
Karen Wright, Wellington Support Staff
21
LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE REPORT
MARCH 25, 2017
The Legislative Committee continues to work to advance NEOEA’s legislative agenda.
NEOEA Legislative Committee members continue to serve in each of the Senate
Districts as liaisons to NEOEA. Our hope is that these positions will improve
communication between OEA and NEOEA. Our goal is to support one another in the
political screening process and facilitate the scheduling of legislative receptions,
screenings, and/or meetings.
Legislative Receptions were held on February 13, 2017, in DSC 1, 2, and 3 concurrently
at four separate locations: north (Lakewood), south (Medina), east (Burton), and west
(Amherst). All receptions were successful with cross-sectional representation of state
legislators and NEOEA members.
The committee sponsored two sessions at the Megaconference on March 4 which
centered on the organization/strategies for holding an OEA-FCPE drive as well as ways
to engage and screen/endorse local school board candidates.
The committee continues to gather information regarding “Creative FCPE Fundraising
Campaigns,” where locals can use creative and innovative ideas to engage members in
the contribution process for OEA FCPE.
The Legislative Committee continues to develop innovative projects that link political
leaders with public education employees who advocate for working conditions to drive
student success.
Members of the Committee:
Andrew Smith, Chairperson, SheffieldSheffield Lake TA
Jeff Arra, Avon Lake EA
Bryan Bain, Willoughby-Eastlake TA
Denise Bartholomew, Howland Classroom TA-R
Debbie Bernauer, Brecksville-Broadview
EA-R
Robert Blessinger, Brunswick EA
Rhonda Braylock, East Cleveland EA-R
Melody Carlisle, Cuyahoga Falls EA
Lyn Curry-Huston, Cuyahoga Falls EA-R
22
Hazel Haffner, Willoughby-Eastlake
TA-R
Hank Haynes, ACCESS-R
Matthew Hickman, WilloughbyEastlake Class. Prof.
Audrey Hinneberg, Highland EA
Rich Javorek, Brunswick EA-R
Dale Kain, Mayfield EA-R
Barbara Martini, Champion EA
Rob McFee, Willoughby-Eastlake TA
Irene Spraggins, East Cleveland EA
Lauren Stanislaw, Bay TA
MINORITY ORGANIZING COMMITTEE REPORT
MARCH 25, 2017
The Minority Organizing Committee is passionate about increasing the participation of all
minority members across the region (NEOEA), state (OEA), and national (NEA) levels. It
is the committee’s hope that the above would then impact minority members’ participation
at the local level as well.
At this year’s NEOEA Megaconference, the Minority Organizing Committee looked
forward to offering members an engaging workshop on “Cultural Competency in the
Classroom.”
We would like to remind our members that we offer scholarships to the annual NEA
Minority Leadership Training Conference. Please watch NEOEA publications for
information on scholarships.
Save the Date: October 13, 2017
Underground Railroad Tour in Cincinnati
Opened on the banks of the Ohio River in Cincinnati in 2004, the mission of the National
Underground Railroad Freedom Center is to reveal stories of freedom’s heroes, from the
era of the Underground Railroad to contemporary times, challenging and inspiring
everyone to take courageous steps of freedom today. A history museum with more than
100,000 visitors annually, it serves to inspire modern abolition through connecting the
lessons of the Underground Railroad with today’s freedom fighters. The center is also a
convener of dialogue on freedom and human rights.
Members of the Committee:
Carol Correthers, Chairperson, Lorain EA
Meisha D. Baker, Lorain EA
Andrea Beeman, Maple Org. Support
Team
Ernestine Davis, East Cleveland EA
Peg Ham, Lorain EA-R
Michael Hernandez, Manchester EA
Joyce Hives, East Cleveland EA-R
Darlene Mallett, East Cleveland EA
Greg Roberts, Bedford EA
Kecia Sanders-Stewart, East Cleveland EA
Karen Winston, East Cleveland EA
23
NEOEA-R ORGANIZING COMMITTEE REPORT
MARCH 25, 2017
As a large committee, we have found that working in smaller subcommittees has allowed us to
accomplish many tasks.

The Conference Committee has a well-planned Spring Conference ready for April 19. With
four break-out sessions, there will be many areas of interest discussed. If you know
someone who has retired within the last year, please remind them of this date as we may
not have their email address on our list.

The Outreach Committee has many events planned for Read Across America. Each reader
had a new book and several recycled books to take with them to present to the school or
group to whom they read.

The Political Action Committee has many members serving on OEA Screening Committees
and are involved with lobbying and other legislative actions.

The Membership Committee is responsibility for our drawing table at all NEOEA events.
They also speak with active members about the reasons for joining the OEA-R/NEOEA-R as
a pre-retired member.

The Retirement Committee is working with the Personal Welfare and Finance Committee to
review and update a retirement document which would be distributed at NEOEA events. The
committee is also keeping us informed on new member benefit opportunities.
The OEA-R Intergenerational Mentoring Program continues at two colleges here in Northeast.
Both Kent State and Youngstown State are involved with the program. We have been very
successful in finding retired members who want to give back by mentoring young educators.
Several of our committee members are organizing luncheons in their home counties. Any retired
educator is invited, and updates from STRS and legislative issues are discussed. Information
about this year's Spring Conference is shared, and, of course, we encourage membership.
We continue to encourage active members to purchase a pre-retired membership while still actively
teaching. The retired membership fee goes up every couple years; the sooner you join, the less it
will cost. One of the biggest benefits of membership is the continuation of all Member Benefits
programs. If you do not have an NEA-R/OEA-R membership when you retire, you will lose your
benefits, including the NEA credit card and any insurance programs in which you are involved.
Members of the Committee:
Nancy Wonson, Chairperson, Lakewood TA-R
Debbie Bernauer, Brecksville-Broadview EA-R
Rhonda Braylock, East Cleveland EA-R
Marshall Buckley, Mentor TA-R
Beryl Burkle, Bedford EA-R
Barb Catalano, Mayfield EA-R
Dave Ciborek, Twinsburg EA-R
Lyn Curry-Huston, Cuyahoga Falls EA-R
Pat Czech, Sheffield-Sheffield Lake TA-R
Nanci DiBianca, Cuyahoga Hts. A of T-R
Carol Dolgosh, Lakewood TA-R
Martha Dunford, Perry EA-R
Sue Fatica, Painesville City TA-R
Patricia Frost-Brooks, East Cleveland EA-R
Hazel Haffner, Willoughby-Eastlake TA-R
24
Peg Ham, Lorain EA-R
Martha Harper, Ashtabula ACSE-R
Hank Haynes, ACCESS-R
Norman Hillstrom, Mentor TA-R
Joyce Hives, East Cleveland EA-R
Gary Hollow, Bristol-R
Richard Javorek, Brunswick EA-R
Dale Kain, Mayfield EA-R
Mary Keefe, Maple Hts. TA-R
Sherri Koncilja, Painesville City TA-R
Dennis Lewis, Parma EA-R
Adele Matias, Mayfield EA-R
Patricia Sharkey, North Ridgeville EA-R
Donna Smoot-Walters, Barberton EA-R
Pat Wagar, Mayfield EA-R
PERSONAL WELFARE AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT
MARCH 25, 2017
The goal of the Personal Welfare and Financial Planning Committee is to provide the
members of NEOEA with information, resources, and tools to provide a more secure
financial status as well as the means to enjoy health and well-being throughout their
career and into retirement. Having good health and spirits only helps to make it easier to
provide quality services to the students at our work places. Being economically secure
is a means to assist in these goals.
The committee, along with other NEOEA Committees, assisted in the selection of topics
and hosting of presentations at this year’s March 4 NEOEA Megaconference. This
year’s Megaconference, with increased member attendance and new program ideas,
was a great success. A new series of workshops was presented this year that focused
on the unique health care, legal, and financial planning needs of solo members.
Other offerings were presented by representatives of the retirement systems that our
members participate in, providing up-to-date information about the benefits and
challenges that each respective system will face in the near future.
Our committee reviewed and recommended adoption of the discounted dental services
program now available through Bright Now! Dental; NEOEA members will be receiving
a vendor-paid mailing with information related to the discounted services available in the
region.
Discounted electric and natural gas supplier services are also available from a supplier
that was reviewed and recommended by the Committee.
The committee is open to consider a variety of topics related to our goals or review
recommendations for presentations at an upcoming Megaconference or NEOEA Day as
we continue to look for methods to convey useful information to Association members.
Your encouragement of members from your local to attend this year’s Megaconference
is appreciated. The content of the many programs offered is of superior quality, and
participants can gain so much for such a little commitment of time and cost.
Members of the Committee:
Dennis Lewis, Chairperson, Parma EA-R
Diana Charters, Ashtabula ACSE
Lynette Corn, East Cleveland EA-R
JoNell Fox, Wadsworth SSA
Leslie Frank, Weaver Workshop and
Support
Reneé Hajek, Wadsworth SSA
Mary Keefe, Maple Hts. TA-R
Adele Matias, Mayfield EA-R
Alexandria Miller, Elyria EA
Lisa Steigerwald-Kana, Campbell EA-R
25
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE REPORT
MARCH 25, 2017
The primary objective of the Professional Development Committee is to explore and
evaluate educational opportunities that will benefit our membership both personally and
professionally. When final decisions have been examined by the committee, these
topics become offerings at the annual Megaconference. The Professional Development
Committee strives to provide opportunities for professional growth experiences that
relate to the current needs of the teaching profession.
At the recently held Megaconference SPARCC Technology Integration Specialist Eric
Curts returned by popular demand. Mr. Curts conducted two sessions: one dealing with
creating and managing Google Classroom and a second entitled “YouTube for
Schools.”
To meet the needs of the newer members of our profession, informational sessions
were offered regarding the Resident Educator Program. RESA years one and two were
addressed in one session, and RESA years three and four were covered in a second
session.
Ellen Adornetto who is the Education Reform Consultant from the Ohio Education
Association conducted two sessions for the recent Megaconference. One session
explored LPDC updates and the second session dealt with High-Performing Teacher
Designations and HB 64.
Committee members continue to attend monthly WVIZ Advisory Council meetings and
report back updated information and areas that that committee might pursue for our
membership. Members also attend the annual Ideastream Technology Conference to
gather additional information for the committee. We also have committee members that
serve on various OEA committees such as the Professional Efficacy Committee in
Columbus.
Our continuing goal as a committee is to support teachers in their continual efforts to
improve instruction so that each student may achieve at higher levels in our schools.
We welcome suggestions from our NEOEA membership for new and/or improved
professional development programming.
Members of the Committee:
Pamela Knox, Chairperson, Brunswick EA
Samuel Adu-Poku, YSU-OEA
Barbara Catalano, Mayfield EA-R
Patricia Greenawalt, Ashtabula Area TA-R
Peg Ham, Lorain EA-R
MaryAnn Harris, East Cleveland EA
Debra Lipnos, Twinsburg EA
Lori Michalec, Tallmadge TA
26
Nicole Nadasky, Portage Co. Educators for the MR
Marissa Platton, Austintown EA
Kattya Romero Mora, Willoughby-Eastlake TA
Sally Schuler, Olmsted Falls EA-R
Susan Selby, Olmsted Falls EA
Anne Wimmer, Elyria EA
Karen Winston, East Cleveland EA
Nancy Wonson, Lakewood TA-R
PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMITTEE REPORT
MARCH 25, 2017
Welcome delegates! The Public Relations Committee will promote the Association, its
views, services, and activities among members, and promote local association
programs that enhance the image of public education and its employees. Public
Relations sponsors each year the following opportunities for local associations:
Local Communications-Newsletter Contest
Each year Public Relations sponsors a Communications Contest. Communications is
important for running a successful local. How do you communicate with members? This
award recognizes communications that are distributed directly to members on a regular
basis from local affiliates of all types, including Education Support Professionals, DDs,
Career Centers, and Higher Education. Winners are recognized at the fall
Representative Assembly and in News and Views. The top entries from small, medium,
and large associations will receive a monetary award honoring them for their work.
An outstanding printed or electronic newsletter will have a BALANCE IN COVERAGE
of news from NEA, OEA, and NEOEA, with special emphasis on local association news.
Forms are available at neoea.org/CommunicationsContest.pdf.
Mini-Grant
Free money for your members! Sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? Well, in this
case, it is true!
Your local may use one of these grants for a public relations project that will promote a
positive image of your association within your community.
A total of $9,972 was invested in our locals through Mini-Grants to help promote positive
images within their communities.
Ashtabula ACSE – Trunk or Treat
Avon TA – Graduate Yard Signs
Barberton EA – Congratulations Graduates
Campbell EA – Celebrating the Class of 2017
Canfield EA – Canfield Teachers Community Forum
Canfield EA – Congratulation Yard Signs for Seniors 2017
Champion EA – Champion Middle School Art Show at the Eastwood Mall
Champion EA – Champion Middle School Performs
Clearview EA – CEA t-shirts
Crestwood EA – Sponsorship of Little League Teams
Cuyahoga Falls EA – Trunk or Treat
East Cleveland EA – Back to School Rally
East Cleveland EA – Back to School Rally
Euclid TA – Big Show Program Ad
Field Local TA – FLTA Loves Field Grads
27
Firelands EA – “We Are Firelands” Celebration
Garfield Heights TA – GHCS Senior Graduation Signs
Lorain EA – Bring a Veteran to Lunch
Lowellville EA – Student Support
Medina City TA – Community Fun
Medina City TA – Home Run Fence
Mentor Classified Emp. – One Book One School
Mentor TA – Chamber of Commerce Luncheon
Niles EA – NEA Canned Food Drive
North Ridgeville EA – Fine Arts Banquet/Pride Day
Olmsted Falls EA – OFEA Logo Window Clings
Revere EA – Congratulations Graduating Seniors
Revere EA – Veterans Day Recognition Partners/Yearbook Ad 2017
Sandusky EA – Celebrating Seniors!
Sandusky EA – Go Streaks! Banner Project
Southeast Local District TA – Senior Class 2017 Yard Signs
Southeast Local District TA – Veterans Day Breakfast and Assembly
Streetsboro EA – SEA Pride
Streetsboro EA – SEA Senior Signs
Strongsville EA – Relay for Life
Twinsburg EA – Bring a Veteran to Lunch
Vermilion TA – Yearbook Ads
Wadsworth ESP Assn. – Back Pack Students
Warrensville EA – Dr. Seuss Day Celebration
Youngstown Student EA – Read Across America
YSU-APAS – Cat Love for YSU APAS
Five Star Awards
Created in 2001 the Five Star Award honors local affiliates that are leaders in
involvement with the Association.
Each year’s Five Star Locals are honored by the Representative Assembly in the fall; on
November 12, the RA honored the 41 locals who earned this recognition for 2015-16;
they constitute over 20% of NEOEA’s local affiliates.
Megaconference
The Public Relations Committee sponsored a workshop at Megaconference. This year
we presented Loot for Your Locals. Attendees were provided with multiple grant
resources.
Positive Image Awards
Positive Image Awards are being presented today to the following locals and
individuals:
28
Honoree
Local
Project
Brunswick Educational
Support Professionals
Association
Firelands Education
Association
Geneva Area Teachers'
Association
Medina City Teachers'
Association
Brunswick ESP
Assn.
Halloween Spooktacular
Firelands EA
“We Are Firelands” Celebration
Geneva Area TA
Audrey Cunert
Tallmadge TA
Joan Cottrill
Twinsburg EA
Vermilion Teachers'
Association
Vermilion TA
Eagle Pride - Congratulation
Signs for Graduating Seniors
Social Media Pages: Faces of
Medina City Schools, Teacher
Feature, and What Did You Do
with Your Weekend?
Community Outreach: Citizens for
Tallmadge Schools
Educational Lessons from
Ultramarathon
Community Candidates' Night
Medina City TA
Visit www.neoea.org and read your News and Views for details on these and other
Public Relations Committee projects.
Members of the Committee:
Reneé Augusta, Chairperson, Willoughby-Eastlake TA
Barbara Armour, Brunswick ESP Assn.
Larry Ellis, Youngstown EA
Bobbi Emery, Clearview EA-R
Michael Hernandez, Manchester EA
Yvette S. Smith, Mayfield EA
Tony Spano, YSU-ACE
Jené Wilson, OEA Independent
29
RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE REPORT
MARCH 25, 2017
The committee has met three times since the Fall Representative Assembly. At these
meetings, the committee has continued to review the document and has made
adjustments which will be acted on at the Fall 2017 NEOEA Representative Assembly
including a reorganization to make the document more reader-friendly. We have been
working on issues related to the RA request regarding the word “formula” in C-11,
student fund-raising protections, and bus safety. The committee will next meet at the
All-Committee Conference in May.
There will be no Resolutions considered at the Spring Representative Assembly this
year.
We would love to have new active members join us in this important work of writing the
most up-to-date version of the belief document of the North Eastern Ohio Education
Association.
Please consider submitting your name for consideration of appointment to this
committee.
Members of the Committee:
Kari Walchalk, Chairperson, Field Local TA
Meisha Baker, Lorain EA
Marshall Buckley, Mentor TA-R
Barb Catalano, Mayfield EA-R
MaryAnn Harris, East Cleveland EA
Teri Mackey, Wadsworth EA
Cindi Nagy, Ashtabula Area TA
Suzie Neff, Columbia Local EA
30
Dianne Noice, Independence EA-R
Melanie Podojil, Parma EA
Frederick Robsel, Buckeye EA-R
Audrey Scuba, Stow TA-R
Kim Vivolo, Lakewood TA
Jené Wilson, OEA Independent
Dana Yaro-Linderman, Independence EA
SOCIAL AND HUMAN CONCERNS COMMITTEE REPORT
MARCH 25, 2017
Charge: The Social and Human Concerns Committee will advocate for civil and human
rights, public education, the dignity of workers, and the value of cooperation through
education. The committee will research, develop, and present programs and activities
that advance these goals.
Megaconference: We sponsored a session on School to Prison Pipeline. The presenter
was Deloris Rome Hudson. We also had a table where she was available to answer
questions, sign members up for NEA’s edCommunities, and/or provide resources on this
topic.
Pay It Forward program: This has been ongoing--Pat Sharkey has provided information
in the News and Views, and she and the committee always appreciate your donations.
Love Your Labor and Your Neighbor: We have begun to extend our work by dividing
into social justice subcommittees that are of interests to our committee members. So far
the following subcommittees have been formed. The following are just some ideas that
are being discussed and developing:
 LBGTQ: Resources and Responsibilities: “Supporting the Transgender Community in
Education.” Looking to have a forum in the near future on transgender issues; this
would possibly be a panel that would provide information on possible board policy
language, how we as educators can support students/staff, alliances in schools that
work, and resources.
 Homeless: This would be working to extend the Pay It Forward program to reach more
NEOEA areas. The subcommittee would like to explore other ways to provide more for
the homeless.
 Union-Made: This will be a continuation of information and resources to join other
unions and purchase union-made items. Marti Franks and Kim Backus have provided
resources at a table and News and Views articles on this.
This committee is hoping you will think about a social justice issue you are passionate
about and join our committee and work on a subcommittee that interests you or create a
new subcommittee on a topic that you have ideas to do an activity.
Thanks to all our members!! We welcomed new members this year and applaud those
who have been on the committee for some time. We will need a chair, vice chair, and
secretary chosen at the All Committee meeting, and this meeting would be a great
opportunity for you to join.
Members of the Committee:
Becky Miller, Chairperson, Tallmadge TA
Kim Backus, Elyria EA-R
Dana Campbell, East Cleveland EA
Jennifer Dudley, Stow TA
Marti Franks, Twinsburg EA-R
Jean Jerina, Cardinal EA
Dawn Magnasco, East Cleveland EA
Suzie Neff, Columbia Local EA
Mia O’Connor, Wadsworth SSA
Kecia Sanders-Stewart, East Cleveland EA
Patricia Sharkey, North Ridgeville EA-R
31
REPORT OF NEOEA BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
MARCH 25, 2017
Since the Representative Assembly last met on November 12, the principal activities
and concerns of the Board of Directors and NEOEA staff have been:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
producing and coordinating NEOEA communications;
administering member discount programs and NEOEA member activities;
assisting UniServ Councils in Regions 2 and 3;
presenting four February 13 Legislative Receptions sponsored by the
Legislative Committee;
presenting Megaconference 2017, offering 33 workshops sponsored by ten
NEOEA committees;
planning the Summer Leadership Conference scheduled for July 26-27, 2017;
and
evaluating NEOEA Day 2016 and preparing for NEOEA Day 2017 on
October 13.
During today’s assembly, you will be hearing brief reports from the committees of the
Board of Directors responsible for Communications and Marketing, NEA Event
Planning, NEOEA Day, Publications, Strategic Planning, and the Summer Leadership
Conference.
Members of the NEOEA Board of Directors:
Jeff Wensing, Parma EA, President
Brian McConnell, Warrensville EA, President-elect
Kim Richards, Cardinal EA, Past President and NEA Director #3
Lillian Tolbert, East Cleveland EA, Recording Secretary
Kathy Abrahamson, Newton Falls ACE, NEOEA Unit 10
and NEOEA ESP Representative at-large
Samuel Adu-Poku, YSU-OEA, OEA/NEOEA and NEOEA
Higher Ed.
Barbara Armour, Brunswick ESP Assn., OEA/NEOEA Unit 9
Meisha D. Baker, Lorain EA, OEA/NEOEA Unit 1
Andrea Beeman, Maple Org. Support Team, NEA ESP
Director-at-large
Marsh Buckley, Mentor TA-R, NEOEA Retired
Representative at-large
Amy L. Butcher, Westlake TA, OEA/NEOEA Unit 2
Diana Charters, Ashtabula Classified, OEA/NEOEA Unit 10
Larry Ellis, Youngstown EA, OEA/NEOEA Unit 8
JoNell Fox, Wadsworth SSA, NEOEA Unit 9
Julie Garcia, Lorain EA, NEOEA Unit 1
Melanie Hameed, Warren EA, OEA/NEOEA Unit 5
Rebecca L. Higgins, Copley TA, OEA President
Debra Lipnos, Twinsburg EA, OEA/NEOEA Unit 7
Nate Loman, Nordonia Hills EA, NEOEA Unit 7
32
Teri Mackey, Wadsworth EA, OEA/NEOEA Unit 4
Barbara Martini, Champion EA, NEOEA Unit 5
Rob McFee, Willoughby-Eastlake TA, NEOEA Unit 6
Susan Messinger, Parma EA, NEOEA Unit 2
Suzie Neff, Columbia Local EA, NEOEA Unit 4
William Palma, Youngstown State SEA, OSEA President
Jeff Rhodes, North Royalton EA, NEA Director #5
Danielle Russo, Mentor TA, OEA/NEOEA Unit 6
Aubrey Ryan, Kent State SEA, NEOEA Student
Representative
Kecia Sanders-Stewart, East Cleveland EA, OEA/NEOEA
Unit 3
Jason Scherer, Field Local TA, NEOEA Unit 8
Irene Spraggins, East Cleveland EA, NEOEA Unit 3
HaSheen Wilson, YSU-ACE, NEA ESP Director-at-large
Karen Winston, East Cleveland EA, NEOEA Minority
Representative at-large
Karen Wright, Wellington Support Staff, OEA ESP
Representative-at-large
FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT/BUDGET
MARCH 25, 2017
The Finance Committee will be submitting a budget at the Representative Assembly.
Members of the Committee:
Brian McConnell, Chairperson,
Warrensville EA
Barb Armour, Brunswick ESP Assn.
Marsh Buckley, Mentor TA-R
Rob McFee, Willoughby-Eastlake TA
Danielle Russo, Mentor TA
Kecia Sanders-Stewart, East Cleveland EA
Jason Scherer, Field Local TA
33
NOTES
Directions to Nordonia High School
8006 S. Bedford Road
Macedonia, OH 44056
From the north: Take I-271 south to Exit 19 (OH-82). Turn left onto OH-82/East Aurora
Road. Take the first right onto S. Bedford Road. Go three-quarters of a mile to
Nordonia High School, which will be on the right. **
From the southeast: Take the turnpike (I-80) west toward Akron. Merge onto Route 8
north. Turn right onto Highland Road, East. Turn left onto S. Bedford Road. Go onequarter of a mile to Nordonia High School, which will be on the left. **
From the south/southwest: Take I-271 north. Take the Route 8 exit (Exit 18) and turn
right onto Route 8. Turn left onto Highland Road, East. Turn left onto S. Bedford Road.
Go one-quarter of a mile to Nordonia High School, which will be on the left. **
From the west: Take the turnpike (I-80) east to Route 8 (Exit 180) toward Akron. Merge
onto Route 8. Turn right onto Highland Road, East. Turn left onto S. Bedford Road. Go
one-quarter of a mile to Nordonia High School, which will be on the left. **
** Enter the north driveway and go around behind the building to park. The entrance to
the high school is across from the stadium.
Parking lot
Parking lot
Entrance to building 
Auditorium
Cafeteria/
Vendors
Entrance to parking lot
RA 101
Unit Caucuses
Registration/
Elections
S. Bedford Road