For many teachers, the start of a new school year kicked off last week. And it's a busy time of year for them. But amid business as usual, it's important teachers remember to take the time to consider their options regarding union membership. Educators only have until September 30 to decide. Listen to my radio segment on what opting out means for teachers. ...
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New data from the state’s Department of Education show student math scores have dropped for the fifth consecutive year and reading scores have dipped as well. In addition, very little progress has been made to close Minnesota’s persistent achievement gaps. ...
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Over the course of a recent two-day period (August 30-31), the Star Tribune ran at least four stories or editorials dealing with racial disparities. “Disparities in Maternal Deaths ‘Staggering,’” by Marissa Evans. “Math and Reading Scores Drop,” by Erin Golden and MaryJo Webster. “Spotlighting Racial Disparities,” by Patrick Condon. “Face Up to Gaps in Student Test Scores,” an unsigned editorial. Nothing said by anyone in the news stories was out of the ordinary. Same with arguments in the editorial. But that’s a major reason why the very real problems cited won’t get much better, as there wasn’t a single reference, or...
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This September resignation window is about what’s right for you, your students, and your family. And remember, you are not alone! Many educators have decided union membership is not the best choice for them....
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Consistently low test scores and lack of academic growth paired with unruly behavior and lack of discipline have driven thousands of Minneapolis Public Schools' students to charter schools and neighboring school districts—and the latest numbers show this flight is continuing....
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A U.S. magistrate judge has ruled that Aaron Benner, a former St. Paul school teacher, can pursue punitive damages from the district when his case goes to trial in federal court this October. ...
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The teachers’ union is quick to scare teachers into thinking that outside of union membership, they can’t get protection. This is false. ...
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Education Minnesota President Denise Specht once again used her column in the union’s magazine to call out the Center. "Our union and our vision...
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Discipline reform efforts are pushing schools to cut back on suspensions and expulsions and prodding them toward alternative discipline policies that often leave teachers to manage behavior issues on their own. Teachers—who are tasked with carrying out the discipline reforms—feel the policies are creating unsafe educational environments....
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Outside of the union, there are several organizations that offer job protection and legal counsel. These alternative organizations don't get caught up in partisan politics and instead focus on kids and serving teachers. ...
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