Representatives of the U.S. Forest Service presented Spanish Fork's Rees Elementary with the 2009 Chief's National Volunteer Award, a distinction only a handful of organizations in the country can claim each year. Since 1997, Rees students, teachers, and and volunteers have provided 20,000 collective hours to the Diamond Fork Youth Forest to help blaze trains, conduct wildlife studies and decorate educational areas. This award comes from the Chief of Forest Service who works directly under the president.
Each student received a commemorative pin and a card bearing a quote from William Wadsworth: "Come forth into the light of things, Let Nature be your teacher."
Over the years students have helped create a 2.5 mile path called the Discovery Trail, including much of the actual scraping, gravel-hauling and bush-trimming required to blaze a trail. They also marked it with informative signs that students helped to design.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Good Neighbors For Good Schools Grant
The State Farm “Good Neighbors For Good Schools” Grant program is being sponsored by the UEA Children at Risk Foundation and Utah State Farm Insurance Agents. Please disseminate this application to Utah Public School teachers interested in applying for a $200 grant to help with classroom programs, equipment and supplies. The deadline is fast approaching (February 19, 2010) and there will only be a certain number approved. The application is available on the UEA website at www.utea.org.
Great Ideas From Sean Mabey at NEA Member Benefits
Dear NEA Members,
Greetings! There are many new ideas out there to help teachers. NEA has created a web-site called “Works-4-Me” which are tried and true teaching hints suggested by NEA members. Each week you will receive an e-mail with six helpful (and short) hints to help you in your teaching. They will fall under the following categories:
Teaching Techniques
Content
Getting Organized
Managing Your Classroom
Relationships
Using Technology
In addition, you will get information about your NEA Member Benefits that are available to you through your membership in the Association. Click on the link or visit www.neamb.com.
Teaching Techniques
Spongy Vocabulary Review
"To review vocabulary in any subject, take strips of masking tape and tape them to a rectangular sponge. Use a marker to write the vocabulary words on the tape. Have the students toss the sponge around the room to other students. The words that get chosen can depend on which finger is touching a particular part of the sponge. For example, if a student's left finger lands on a specific word that is the word they must try to define. Students love this game. If there are more than six vocabulary words, just tape over already defined words and write the new words on top."
Content
Class History Book
"I bring in the newspaper from home every day until I have six days worth. I divide my class into groups and ask them to find an article with an international dateline, another state's dateline and a dateline from our state. They staple these on an 8 x 11 piece of paper. Each group briefly tells the rest of the class about their articles. I fill in information and we file them. Each month I redistribute the month's pages and we narrow the articles down to the best six. We post these on the board and the students vote on which ones to keep. At the end of the school year we'll have twelve news pages for a class history book."
Getting Organized
Neat Treat
"Every afternoon at dismissal, I choose a name from a box and then check that student's desk to see if it's neat and clean. If it is, that student receives a 'Neat Treat' to take home. I put that name in my desk and when all of the names have been chosen, I start over again. If the chosen student's desk is not neat I put the name back into the box and choose another. This incentive has resulted in very organized desks and very little time wasted while a student hunts for materials."
Managing Your Classroom
Recess First, Then Lunch
"I was involved in a study at my school two years ago. We researched and studied the lunch plan. We discovered (American Dietetic Association Magazine, September 1996) that children eat more lunch when they go outside for recess first and then eat. Several fringe benefits of this plan are: children go back to class from the lunchroom rather than the playground and fights are reduced; fewer children have stomach aches after lunch because they will not have eaten and then run around."
Relationships
Self-Addressed Stamped Envelopes
"My students aren't always perfect at getting necessary information home to their parents so I request five self-addressed stamped envelopes when I send home my school supply list. These envelopes make it so easy to communicate with parents that I do it more often. The parental response has been outstanding! I am one of the few upper grade classes with a terrific parent volunteer turnout. I truly believe this turnout is because I send home personal communication. Plus, it's not on my stamp!"
Using Technology
Web Site for Teachers
"I developed lesson plans for using newspaper editorial cartoons as a teaching tool in social studies, art, journalism and English from elementary through high school. My husband, a syndicated cartoonist and officer in the National Cartoonist Society, created our web site by approaching his colleagues and asking them to participate. The site includes current cartoons from 24 editorial cartoonists. There is no cost to use the site. Our teachers' guide to the cartoonists' index is at www.cagle.com/teacher. The cartoonists' index site is at www.cagle.com."
NEA Member Benefit of the Week:
NEA Home Financing Program: Mortgages (see the attachment for information on Tax Credits)
NEA makes it easy to get competitive rates on a mortgage.
Special Offer!Receive $200 in gift cards when you close your loan.1
Whether you’re buying a home or refinancing, getting a competitive rate on a mortgage is easier than ever with the NEA Home Financing Program® offered through Wells Fargo Home Mortgage.
Free refinancing break-even analysis and assistance
Competitive interest rates and fees
Choice of mortgage options & terms to match your needs
Everything up until closing can be handled through a toll-free number
A 60-day interest rate lock option to protect against rising rates
Special Mortgage Programs
Low down payment loan options
First Time Home Buyer Loans and Tax Credit
Affordable Housing Programs
Reverse Mortgages for seniors
SOURCE: http://www.neamb.com/home/1199_875.htm
NEA Member Benefit Article of the Week:
How to Avoid the Holiday Overspending Trap
Read our tips and suggestions to stay in control of your holiday spending this year.
Date published: Monday, November 16, 2009
By Lexi Gray Andrews
The holidays are a seemingly good excuse for many people to throw their careful budgeting habits out the window. Each year, the holiday obligations keep piling on—and whether it’s a family dinner, an office get together or gift giving among friends, it’s hard to avoid spending cash that we wouldn’t otherwise be shelling out. Before you fall into the holiday ritual of overspending, here are some tips that will help you stay in line with old traditions without maxing out your credit cards.
Assess your budget, track your spendingThe first step in keeping holiday spending in check is to decide the most you can afford to spend. Gregory Karp, author of The 1-2-3 Money Plan: The Most Important Steps to Saving and Spending Smart, suggests that no more than 1.5 percent of your gross income should be spent on all holiday items, and that includes gifts, travel, decorations and entertaining. That means if your household has $60,000 in income, you would spend no more than $900 for all holiday expenses. “But if you’re deeply in debt, consider spending much less,” Karp said.
Once you’ve established how much you’re going to spend, stay strong! One way to do this is to diligently track your spending using a system that you can easily follow and maintain. Tracey McBride, author of Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons: Celebrate the Holidays with Elegance and Simplicity--on Any Income suggests designating an envelope for each person or event on your holiday list. Write the name of the person or event on the outside of an envelope, and place inside the exact cash amount you wish to spend on each.
“When I do my holiday gift shopping I simply take the envelopes, and no credit cards, and spend only what I’ve budgeted. Keep these in a safe, hard to get to compartment of your purse, or in your front pocket if you don’t use a purse,” McBride said.
Curb spending on gifts and other holiday cheerSometimes saving cash around the holidays is all about good timing. A little-known shopping tip is that if you visit a store after 6 p.m. the day before an advertised sale, you have a good chance of getting those discounted prices before anyone else, Karp said. Many retailers program their registers the evening prior to a big sale, Karp added, meaning that consumers will often get these sale prices before they are even posted throughout the store.
Shopping online may also keep your spending under control. “Research shows that the sights, sounds and smells of a retail store can entice us to spend impulsively. Shopping online for holiday gifts can keep you on task and allow you to avoid temptations,” Karp said.
Another huge holiday expense that just seems to grow each year is the tradition of mailing out greeting cards to friends, family members and associates. Karp suggests purchasing boxed holiday cards at your local dollar store or warehouse club. For those who won’t be offended by not receiving a physical card, consider sending a holiday e-card. Keep these personal by attaching a few digital family photographs.
Partying on a budgetThe pressure is on during the holidays to attend numerous types of parties and social gatherings, and there may be different expectations that come with each one. If your friends are getting together to exchange gifts, one of the most popular ways to save money is doing a random gift exchange where you draw names from a hat and only buy for the person whose name you pulled, suggests Adam Leone, financial advisor with Modera Wealth Management in Old Tappan, NJ.
If you happen to be hosting a party of your own, one of the easiest ways to save money is to avoid overspending on alcohol. “Everyone wants to make every possible drink under the sun, but if you focus on a few unique cocktails, you can still keep your guests happy,” said Leone. Many food-related and general interest magazines often have recipes for fun, holiday-themed cocktails that won’t break the bank.
To keep your guests happy, you may want to consider having a cocktail party instead of offering dinner. Holiday wine and cheese parties will be just as memorable, and even kinder on your wallet if each guest contributes a bottle for the party, said Kris Koederitz Melcher, author of Chick Living: Frugal and Fabulous.
Decorating for a party, or the holidays in general, is another area where you can get creative on a tight budget, said Melcher. “You don’t have to spend much on quality greenery, gorgeous ribbon, garland and small holiday accents and ornaments—craft and discount stores often have great deals on these. The same goes for simple glass votives and tea lights—which you can use year round—and these things can be the basis of holiday decorating for years to come.”
All things considered, with the proper planning it is easy to avoid the temptation to overspend during the holiday season. As Melcher noted, it is possible to “go all out without feeling put out” this year.
Source: http://www.neamb.com/home/602_4520.htm
Sean L. Mabey
NEA Member Benefits
Affiliate Relations Specialist
smabey@neamb.com
Greetings! There are many new ideas out there to help teachers. NEA has created a web-site called “Works-4-Me” which are tried and true teaching hints suggested by NEA members. Each week you will receive an e-mail with six helpful (and short) hints to help you in your teaching. They will fall under the following categories:
Teaching Techniques
Content
Getting Organized
Managing Your Classroom
Relationships
Using Technology
In addition, you will get information about your NEA Member Benefits that are available to you through your membership in the Association. Click on the link or visit www.neamb.com.
Teaching Techniques
Spongy Vocabulary Review
"To review vocabulary in any subject, take strips of masking tape and tape them to a rectangular sponge. Use a marker to write the vocabulary words on the tape. Have the students toss the sponge around the room to other students. The words that get chosen can depend on which finger is touching a particular part of the sponge. For example, if a student's left finger lands on a specific word that is the word they must try to define. Students love this game. If there are more than six vocabulary words, just tape over already defined words and write the new words on top."
Content
Class History Book
"I bring in the newspaper from home every day until I have six days worth. I divide my class into groups and ask them to find an article with an international dateline, another state's dateline and a dateline from our state. They staple these on an 8 x 11 piece of paper. Each group briefly tells the rest of the class about their articles. I fill in information and we file them. Each month I redistribute the month's pages and we narrow the articles down to the best six. We post these on the board and the students vote on which ones to keep. At the end of the school year we'll have twelve news pages for a class history book."
Getting Organized
Neat Treat
"Every afternoon at dismissal, I choose a name from a box and then check that student's desk to see if it's neat and clean. If it is, that student receives a 'Neat Treat' to take home. I put that name in my desk and when all of the names have been chosen, I start over again. If the chosen student's desk is not neat I put the name back into the box and choose another. This incentive has resulted in very organized desks and very little time wasted while a student hunts for materials."
Managing Your Classroom
Recess First, Then Lunch
"I was involved in a study at my school two years ago. We researched and studied the lunch plan. We discovered (American Dietetic Association Magazine, September 1996) that children eat more lunch when they go outside for recess first and then eat. Several fringe benefits of this plan are: children go back to class from the lunchroom rather than the playground and fights are reduced; fewer children have stomach aches after lunch because they will not have eaten and then run around."
Relationships
Self-Addressed Stamped Envelopes
"My students aren't always perfect at getting necessary information home to their parents so I request five self-addressed stamped envelopes when I send home my school supply list. These envelopes make it so easy to communicate with parents that I do it more often. The parental response has been outstanding! I am one of the few upper grade classes with a terrific parent volunteer turnout. I truly believe this turnout is because I send home personal communication. Plus, it's not on my stamp!"
Using Technology
Web Site for Teachers
"I developed lesson plans for using newspaper editorial cartoons as a teaching tool in social studies, art, journalism and English from elementary through high school. My husband, a syndicated cartoonist and officer in the National Cartoonist Society, created our web site by approaching his colleagues and asking them to participate. The site includes current cartoons from 24 editorial cartoonists. There is no cost to use the site. Our teachers' guide to the cartoonists' index is at www.cagle.com/teacher. The cartoonists' index site is at www.cagle.com."
NEA Member Benefit of the Week:
NEA Home Financing Program: Mortgages (see the attachment for information on Tax Credits)
NEA makes it easy to get competitive rates on a mortgage.
Special Offer!Receive $200 in gift cards when you close your loan.1
Whether you’re buying a home or refinancing, getting a competitive rate on a mortgage is easier than ever with the NEA Home Financing Program® offered through Wells Fargo Home Mortgage.
Free refinancing break-even analysis and assistance
Competitive interest rates and fees
Choice of mortgage options & terms to match your needs
Everything up until closing can be handled through a toll-free number
A 60-day interest rate lock option to protect against rising rates
Special Mortgage Programs
Low down payment loan options
First Time Home Buyer Loans and Tax Credit
Affordable Housing Programs
Reverse Mortgages for seniors
SOURCE: http://www.neamb.com/home/1199_875.htm
NEA Member Benefit Article of the Week:
How to Avoid the Holiday Overspending Trap
Read our tips and suggestions to stay in control of your holiday spending this year.
Date published: Monday, November 16, 2009
By Lexi Gray Andrews
The holidays are a seemingly good excuse for many people to throw their careful budgeting habits out the window. Each year, the holiday obligations keep piling on—and whether it’s a family dinner, an office get together or gift giving among friends, it’s hard to avoid spending cash that we wouldn’t otherwise be shelling out. Before you fall into the holiday ritual of overspending, here are some tips that will help you stay in line with old traditions without maxing out your credit cards.
Assess your budget, track your spendingThe first step in keeping holiday spending in check is to decide the most you can afford to spend. Gregory Karp, author of The 1-2-3 Money Plan: The Most Important Steps to Saving and Spending Smart, suggests that no more than 1.5 percent of your gross income should be spent on all holiday items, and that includes gifts, travel, decorations and entertaining. That means if your household has $60,000 in income, you would spend no more than $900 for all holiday expenses. “But if you’re deeply in debt, consider spending much less,” Karp said.
Once you’ve established how much you’re going to spend, stay strong! One way to do this is to diligently track your spending using a system that you can easily follow and maintain. Tracey McBride, author of Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons: Celebrate the Holidays with Elegance and Simplicity--on Any Income suggests designating an envelope for each person or event on your holiday list. Write the name of the person or event on the outside of an envelope, and place inside the exact cash amount you wish to spend on each.
“When I do my holiday gift shopping I simply take the envelopes, and no credit cards, and spend only what I’ve budgeted. Keep these in a safe, hard to get to compartment of your purse, or in your front pocket if you don’t use a purse,” McBride said.
Curb spending on gifts and other holiday cheerSometimes saving cash around the holidays is all about good timing. A little-known shopping tip is that if you visit a store after 6 p.m. the day before an advertised sale, you have a good chance of getting those discounted prices before anyone else, Karp said. Many retailers program their registers the evening prior to a big sale, Karp added, meaning that consumers will often get these sale prices before they are even posted throughout the store.
Shopping online may also keep your spending under control. “Research shows that the sights, sounds and smells of a retail store can entice us to spend impulsively. Shopping online for holiday gifts can keep you on task and allow you to avoid temptations,” Karp said.
Another huge holiday expense that just seems to grow each year is the tradition of mailing out greeting cards to friends, family members and associates. Karp suggests purchasing boxed holiday cards at your local dollar store or warehouse club. For those who won’t be offended by not receiving a physical card, consider sending a holiday e-card. Keep these personal by attaching a few digital family photographs.
Partying on a budgetThe pressure is on during the holidays to attend numerous types of parties and social gatherings, and there may be different expectations that come with each one. If your friends are getting together to exchange gifts, one of the most popular ways to save money is doing a random gift exchange where you draw names from a hat and only buy for the person whose name you pulled, suggests Adam Leone, financial advisor with Modera Wealth Management in Old Tappan, NJ.
If you happen to be hosting a party of your own, one of the easiest ways to save money is to avoid overspending on alcohol. “Everyone wants to make every possible drink under the sun, but if you focus on a few unique cocktails, you can still keep your guests happy,” said Leone. Many food-related and general interest magazines often have recipes for fun, holiday-themed cocktails that won’t break the bank.
To keep your guests happy, you may want to consider having a cocktail party instead of offering dinner. Holiday wine and cheese parties will be just as memorable, and even kinder on your wallet if each guest contributes a bottle for the party, said Kris Koederitz Melcher, author of Chick Living: Frugal and Fabulous.
Decorating for a party, or the holidays in general, is another area where you can get creative on a tight budget, said Melcher. “You don’t have to spend much on quality greenery, gorgeous ribbon, garland and small holiday accents and ornaments—craft and discount stores often have great deals on these. The same goes for simple glass votives and tea lights—which you can use year round—and these things can be the basis of holiday decorating for years to come.”
All things considered, with the proper planning it is easy to avoid the temptation to overspend during the holiday season. As Melcher noted, it is possible to “go all out without feeling put out” this year.
Source: http://www.neamb.com/home/602_4520.htm
Sean L. Mabey
NEA Member Benefits
Affiliate Relations Specialist
smabey@neamb.com
Friday, November 13, 2009
SHHS and "Kids Cause"
Students in Mrs. Whittekiend’s Marketing class and DECA organization held a fundraiser to collect money to donate to the Kids Cause Foundation. They held a contest against Springville High School to see who could collect the most money over a set period of time. The Marketing and DECA students came up with a marketing campaign that included asking for monetary donations from Salem Hills High School students and collecting money from the crowd at the football game against ALA.
The winner of this fundraising competition was announced at the Salem Hills vs. Springville football game. Both the schools made chains adding one ring to the chain for every 50 cents collected. Salem Hills had collected roughly $850 and Springville had collected roughly $350. “Everyone’s going through a hard time right now, but people were still willing to donate. It’s awesome,” Said Debryn Saunders, DECA President, after the contest was over.
Kids Cause helps kids from financially challenged homes get things like glasses, winter coats, school supplies, and shoes. Josh Treanor, a Marketing student, after helping with collecting the donations, said, “It’s always fun to beat Springville, I’m glad it was for a good cause and I thank everyone for helping out.”
Mrs. Whittekiend said, “This was a great learning experience for all of the students involved. We were very happy to collect as much money as we did. Not only did we beat Springville, we were able to present a large check to a foundation that helps students right here in our schools.”
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Thinkfinity.org
Wow, go to thinkfinity.org if you are a teacher, student, parent, or afterschool teacher. This website may become you new favorite place to go. Thinkfinity has thoousands of resources for all of the above mentioned people. It is sponsored by the Verizon Foundation of Literacy. I went to the website and took the "tour" and was very impressed by what I saw. Do you need a new idea, a quick lesson plan?
Just put in the topic and you will instantly have wonderful lesson plans right before your eyes, ready to used in the classroom. Sign up for the free newsletter.
Get the help you need in your classroom--for free!!
Share this website with fellow educators, parents, anyone who is interested in education.
This is an example of one tiny portion on the website on Veteran's Day. The picture that goes with it is at the top of the page.
Understanding the Price of Freedom on Veterans Day
"Americans have gone to war to win their independence, expand their national boundaries, define their freedoms, and defend their interests around the globe. This online exhibition examines how wars have shaped the nation's history and transformed American Society.
read more >>
More Veterans Day Lessons >>"
Friday, November 6, 2009
Who We Are
The Bonneville UniServ assists the members of four school districts. The districts are Alpine, Carbon, Provo, and Nebo. We cover large urban districts and a small rural district. Suzie Makin is the Executive Director,Ron Firmage and Chris Watkins are UniServ Directors. Associate staff are Glenda Anderson, Amber Valenzuela (dental) and Teera Heinscheid. Lorraine Peterson is our new part-time associate. We all have different areas of expertise and work together very well serving the educators who make up our UniServ. We do teacher advocacy, Kids Cause, Association Representative Meetings, political action, and any issues that affect a teachers working environment. The associations are affiliated with the Utah Education Association and National Education Association.
The UniServ office staff work with the president and boards of the four associations which are: Alpine Education Association, Mike Gowans, president, Carbon County Education Association, Jim Thompson, president, Nebo Education Association, Jim Griffins, president, and Provo Education Association, Annette O'Bryant, President. Bonneville UniServ has outstanding leadership for our teachers. All of the presidents are full time teachers. Interestingly enough all four are high school teachers. We invite anyone to visit our office if they have questions about membership or other issues.
The UniServ office staff work with the president and boards of the four associations which are: Alpine Education Association, Mike Gowans, president, Carbon County Education Association, Jim Thompson, president, Nebo Education Association, Jim Griffins, president, and Provo Education Association, Annette O'Bryant, President. Bonneville UniServ has outstanding leadership for our teachers. All of the presidents are full time teachers. Interestingly enough all four are high school teachers. We invite anyone to visit our office if they have questions about membership or other issues.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Priming the Pump
It's never been more important to use money wisely. "The Connection's" "Priming the Pump" will feature money-saving tips available to UEA members. Find highlighted NEA Member Benefit products or services, Access merchants offering great discounts or other pointers to help UEA members save money and manage personal finances.
In addition, to help our members achieve financial peace of mind, the UEA's website will feature monthly tips and useful forms and templates at www.utea.org/benefits. Be it developing a family budget, saving for special occasions, paying off debt or planning for retirement, UEA members will find all kinds of resources to help them achieve financial goals.
Smart Living
NEA Member Benefits shares the common mistakes that cost you money. For more information visit http://www.neamb.com/.
Mistake #1: Saving money instead of paying off high-interest debt. If you have savings but are also paying off high-interest debt, like an auto loan, use your savings to pay off the debt first. You'll save more in the long run. Here's why: You're paying a higher interest rate on these debts than you can earn on most investments. Of course, if your only savings is your emergency reserve, paying off your debt first can be risky.
Learn from Francesca's mistake. Francesca had a $2,000 loan, but she also had more than $2,000 in her bank account. She had to pay an annual interest rate of 16 percent on the loan, and the savings account paid her 2 percent on her $2,000 worth of savings after taxes. After a year, she had paid $320 in interest on the loan and earned only $40 in interest from the $2,000 in her account. That means she lost $280! If she had paid off the loan instead, she wouldn't have earned any interest - but she would have saved herself $280. Even if she had put the $2,ooo in a high interest investment, she couldn't have expected more than a 10 percent return (or $200) - so paying off her debt would still have been the smarter choice.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Bonneville UniServ Mourns The Loss of Local Educator
The Utah Education Association and Alpine Education Association Mourn The Loss Of Heather Christensen. Utah Education Association President Kim Campbell issued the following statement today on the death of American Fork High School teacher Heather Christensen:
“Someone once said, ‘To teach is to touch a life forever.’ Today, as we all mourn the loss of a fellow educator, Heather Christensen, band instructor at American Fork High School, we remember her for not only touching lives as a dedicated teacher, but for saving the lives of her own students in an act of incredible bravery.
“As the news reports and eye witness accounts verify, Heather was a hero whose quick thinking and sacrifice prevented the loss of additional lives.
“On behalf of Utah Education Association members statewide, our thoughts and prayers are with Heather’s family, her colleagues, her students at American Fork High School and all those whose lives she touched.”
“Someone once said, ‘To teach is to touch a life forever.’ Today, as we all mourn the loss of a fellow educator, Heather Christensen, band instructor at American Fork High School, we remember her for not only touching lives as a dedicated teacher, but for saving the lives of her own students in an act of incredible bravery.
“As the news reports and eye witness accounts verify, Heather was a hero whose quick thinking and sacrifice prevented the loss of additional lives.
“On behalf of Utah Education Association members statewide, our thoughts and prayers are with Heather’s family, her colleagues, her students at American Fork High School and all those whose lives she touched.”
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Nebo Association School Visits
Nebo Education Association leaders are visiting schools in the Nebo School District. The leaders with the Bonneville UniServ Directors are talking to teachers in all of the schools. They take donuts, juice, and printed materials. They have had many good conversations around current issues and rumors that need facts. All teachers are invited, members and potential members.
The Association has set the goal of visiting all schools by Christmas break.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
NEA Insurance Life Insurance Benefits
“Because, it’s not for you—it’s for them.”
A message from Sue Fox, your NEA Insurance Program Liaison
Dear NEA Members,
No one really wants to think about life insurance, but it’s absolutely heartbreaking to see what can happen when there isn’t enough.
You may not know this, but a full 86% of NEA Members are underinsured and not aware of it. All too often, I hear about the financial hardship caused by inadequate coverage, and I honestly don’t want to see even one more member’s family go through this.
That’s why, during September, we are partnering with the Life Foundation to educate members about the importance of having adequate life insurance.
Please take full advantage of the resources available on our site this month:
Test your insurance IQ
Calculate how much life insurance you need
Register your beneficiary for NEA Complimentary Life Insurance
Learn about NEA life insurance plans
Find out what you need to adequately protect those you love, and we’ll do our best to help you get it.
I know how much your family means to you. Please e-mail me if you need help along the way.
Regards,
Sue Fox
sfox@neamb.com Source: http://www.neamb.com/home/4454.htm
A message from Sue Fox, your NEA Insurance Program Liaison
Dear NEA Members,
No one really wants to think about life insurance, but it’s absolutely heartbreaking to see what can happen when there isn’t enough.
You may not know this, but a full 86% of NEA Members are underinsured and not aware of it. All too often, I hear about the financial hardship caused by inadequate coverage, and I honestly don’t want to see even one more member’s family go through this.
That’s why, during September, we are partnering with the Life Foundation to educate members about the importance of having adequate life insurance.
Please take full advantage of the resources available on our site this month:
Test your insurance IQ
Calculate how much life insurance you need
Register your beneficiary for NEA Complimentary Life Insurance
Learn about NEA life insurance plans
Find out what you need to adequately protect those you love, and we’ll do our best to help you get it.
I know how much your family means to you. Please e-mail me if you need help along the way.
Regards,
Sue Fox
sfox@neamb.com Source: http://www.neamb.com/home/4454.htm
Teaching Tips From NEA Benefits Regional Representative
Dear NEA Members,
Greetings! There are many new ideas out there to help teachers. NEA has created a web-site called “Works-4-Me” which are tried and true teaching hints suggested by NEA members. Each week you will receive an e-mail with six helpful (and short) hints to help you in your teaching. They will fall under the following categories:
Teaching Techniques
Content
Getting Organized
Managing Your Classroom
Relationships
Using Technology
In addition, you will get information about your NEA Member Benefits that are available to you through your membership in the Association. Click on the link or visit www.neamb.com.
Teaching Techniques
Take It Apart Party
"I run an after school club for my students. I want to use this valuable time on academics, but also know it's important for students to get to know one another. So, once a month to have an after school gathering; this month we had a 'Take It Apart Party.' We collected broken small appliances and on the appointed day, we took them apart. We found the insides of various hair dryers are similar, toasters have springs all over the place, and gears are a wonder in old telephones and mixers. We had such a great time taking things apart that we got back together the next two days to nail our findings together into free form sculptures."
Content
Bedroom Maps
"In order to reinforce map skills, my students write a detailed description of their bedrooms including shapes, sizes, colors and directional relationships between objects in their rooms. After a few lessons on maps, keys and symbols the students create an aerial view map of their room. I display the bedroom maps on the bulletin board and include a zip lock bag with the children's descriptions in the middle. There are only numbers that I can identify on the descriptions so the students don't know who wrote them. During free time, the children can take out a description and try to match it to a map on the board. If the work was done accurately, the challenge shouldn't be too difficult."
Getting Organized
Missing Papers I
"My students are always losing handouts (homework sheets, school notices, skill pages). I always run off three extra copies of each handout and place them in an in-basket. I use the top of a gift box in a convenient spot. If my students can't find a handout at the end of the day, they check the box and don't bother me. I clean out the box about every two weeks. This is a life-saver since the end of the day is hectic enough without having to locate a missing paper."
Managing Your Classroom
Silent Noise
"Particularly useful at the start of the school year or on days near special events when students are talking during introductory instructions, I tell them they can keep talking, just without sound. It usually catches their attention quickly. Then I explain that when so many are talking all at once in the room, it just takes my words away. Trying to figure out the directives is hard when only my lips are moving and it usually gets the class quiet so that I can continue with directives."
Relationships
Scavenger Hunt at Open House
"Each year at the beginning of the year, my teaching partner and I put together a small scavenger hunt for the fourth graders to do at open house with their parents. This activity makes the students real excited about coming to the open house and showing off everything. It allows parents to see all the things you want them to see and really cuts down on those parents who want to turn open house into conference night. The first item on the list is for students to introduce their parents to the teacher and then we add about twelve other things like showing their science notebook, solving a problem, doing an estimation activity together, showing the science table, etc. If students complete the sheet, parents sign it and students return it the next morning, they receive a bonus point. It works for everyone!"
Using Technology
Weekly E-Mail Newsletter
"I e-mail newsletters to my students and their parents. At the beginning of the year, I collect the addresses of all those interested in receiving the newsletter. I send out a quick little newsletter about upcoming projects, tests, homework assignments and any other helpful information every week. Since I have everyone's address in a personal distribution list, all I have to do is hit the send button to communicate with the majority of my students and parents. The responses I have gotten are phenomenal. It has really opened up the communication lines. Parents are up to date with what's going on and feel comfortable asking questions via e-mail. They are very appreciative of the effort to get them involved at the high school level. My students are also able to send me e-mail with questions, suggestions and thank-you's."
Regards,
Sean L. Mabey
NEA Member Benefits
Regional Representative
smabey@neamb.com
"Your Dedication Drives Ours."
Greetings! There are many new ideas out there to help teachers. NEA has created a web-site called “Works-4-Me” which are tried and true teaching hints suggested by NEA members. Each week you will receive an e-mail with six helpful (and short) hints to help you in your teaching. They will fall under the following categories:
Teaching Techniques
Content
Getting Organized
Managing Your Classroom
Relationships
Using Technology
In addition, you will get information about your NEA Member Benefits that are available to you through your membership in the Association. Click on the link or visit www.neamb.com.
Teaching Techniques
Take It Apart Party
"I run an after school club for my students. I want to use this valuable time on academics, but also know it's important for students to get to know one another. So, once a month to have an after school gathering; this month we had a 'Take It Apart Party.' We collected broken small appliances and on the appointed day, we took them apart. We found the insides of various hair dryers are similar, toasters have springs all over the place, and gears are a wonder in old telephones and mixers. We had such a great time taking things apart that we got back together the next two days to nail our findings together into free form sculptures."
Content
Bedroom Maps
"In order to reinforce map skills, my students write a detailed description of their bedrooms including shapes, sizes, colors and directional relationships between objects in their rooms. After a few lessons on maps, keys and symbols the students create an aerial view map of their room. I display the bedroom maps on the bulletin board and include a zip lock bag with the children's descriptions in the middle. There are only numbers that I can identify on the descriptions so the students don't know who wrote them. During free time, the children can take out a description and try to match it to a map on the board. If the work was done accurately, the challenge shouldn't be too difficult."
Getting Organized
Missing Papers I
"My students are always losing handouts (homework sheets, school notices, skill pages). I always run off three extra copies of each handout and place them in an in-basket. I use the top of a gift box in a convenient spot. If my students can't find a handout at the end of the day, they check the box and don't bother me. I clean out the box about every two weeks. This is a life-saver since the end of the day is hectic enough without having to locate a missing paper."
Managing Your Classroom
Silent Noise
"Particularly useful at the start of the school year or on days near special events when students are talking during introductory instructions, I tell them they can keep talking, just without sound. It usually catches their attention quickly. Then I explain that when so many are talking all at once in the room, it just takes my words away. Trying to figure out the directives is hard when only my lips are moving and it usually gets the class quiet so that I can continue with directives."
Relationships
Scavenger Hunt at Open House
"Each year at the beginning of the year, my teaching partner and I put together a small scavenger hunt for the fourth graders to do at open house with their parents. This activity makes the students real excited about coming to the open house and showing off everything. It allows parents to see all the things you want them to see and really cuts down on those parents who want to turn open house into conference night. The first item on the list is for students to introduce their parents to the teacher and then we add about twelve other things like showing their science notebook, solving a problem, doing an estimation activity together, showing the science table, etc. If students complete the sheet, parents sign it and students return it the next morning, they receive a bonus point. It works for everyone!"
Using Technology
Weekly E-Mail Newsletter
"I e-mail newsletters to my students and their parents. At the beginning of the year, I collect the addresses of all those interested in receiving the newsletter. I send out a quick little newsletter about upcoming projects, tests, homework assignments and any other helpful information every week. Since I have everyone's address in a personal distribution list, all I have to do is hit the send button to communicate with the majority of my students and parents. The responses I have gotten are phenomenal. It has really opened up the communication lines. Parents are up to date with what's going on and feel comfortable asking questions via e-mail. They are very appreciative of the effort to get them involved at the high school level. My students are also able to send me e-mail with questions, suggestions and thank-you's."
Regards,
Sean L. Mabey
NEA Member Benefits
Regional Representative
smabey@neamb.com
"Your Dedication Drives Ours."
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Ways to Build and Maintain a Culture of Belonging
1. An inclusive culture: "Everyone belongs to our Association."
2. EXPECT that everyone will belong.
3. Reinforce a collective sense of identity. What battles have we fought and won together?
4. Each individual has a positive relationship with others in the group? We work together and play together.
5. We support one another during times of stress. What happens to one happens to all. This begins the strength of unity.
2. EXPECT that everyone will belong.
3. Reinforce a collective sense of identity. What battles have we fought and won together?
4. Each individual has a positive relationship with others in the group? We work together and play together.
5. We support one another during times of stress. What happens to one happens to all. This begins the strength of unity.
Reinforcing a Culture of Belonging
Now more than ever, educators need a strong advocate. Public education needs a strong advocate. Utah needs to maintain its commitment to a great public school for every student. During these tough economic times people are looking for ways to trim their expenses and live more economically. We need to be prepared to speak out on the importance of a strong association. The NEA, UEA and local affiliates work hard for members in many ways:
1. Protects members' benefits-wages and medical insurance, working conditions and job protection
2. Enforces legal policies-school board policies, state and federal laws, other legally binding agreement, and in some cases professional agreements
3. Advocates for public education funding-both national and state revenue sources
4. Promotes rigid teaching standards to ensure quality educators in public schools
5. Protects against burdensome policies and other unrealistic requirements.
It's vital that the UEA members know the importance of maintaining a strong Utah Education Association and a voice of unity. At the beginning of this 2009-10 school year we ask that every Association Rep hold a membership meeting at your school.
1. Protects members' benefits-wages and medical insurance, working conditions and job protection
2. Enforces legal policies-school board policies, state and federal laws, other legally binding agreement, and in some cases professional agreements
3. Advocates for public education funding-both national and state revenue sources
4. Promotes rigid teaching standards to ensure quality educators in public schools
5. Protects against burdensome policies and other unrealistic requirements.
It's vital that the UEA members know the importance of maintaining a strong Utah Education Association and a voice of unity. At the beginning of this 2009-10 school year we ask that every Association Rep hold a membership meeting at your school.
Friday, August 21, 2009
New Teacher Lunches Successful
The Alpine Education Association and Nebo Education Associations held their new teacher luncheons in connection with district new teacher orientations. Both associations talked to the potential members about the advantages of joining and had Association Representatives ready to speak to the new teachers at their schools. Many new teachers signed and many others took paperwork to study.
The Provo Education Association held a social to meet with their new teachers and to present them with "Survival Kits". The kits were well received and leadership has begun to followup with teachers that were unable to attend.
The Carbon Education Association spoke to their new teachers right after their lunch. They presented a wonderful goodies bag to each of the seven new teachers. Leadership has also started a follow up visit with each of these teachers.
Bonneville UniServ would like to give a big WELCOME TO EDUCATION to all new educators in all four locals. We would love to have everyone join us in "your" professional association.
The Provo Education Association held a social to meet with their new teachers and to present them with "Survival Kits". The kits were well received and leadership has begun to followup with teachers that were unable to attend.
The Carbon Education Association spoke to their new teachers right after their lunch. They presented a wonderful goodies bag to each of the seven new teachers. Leadership has also started a follow up visit with each of these teachers.
Bonneville UniServ would like to give a big WELCOME TO EDUCATION to all new educators in all four locals. We would love to have everyone join us in "your" professional association.
Bonneville UniServ Has New Website
The Bonneville UniServ has a new website with many resources for members of Alpine, Carbon, Provo, and Nebo Education Associations. The website address is bonneville.org. All of forms that Association Representatives need are now on line and can be downloaded whenever they are needed. Pictures and email addresses of staff, associate staff, and local leaders can be found under the appropriate local association tabs. The Alpine Education Association also has a new website. It can be found at alpine.org.
Bonneville UniServ encourage all members and potential members to check out the websites and take advantages of all of the information that is there. If you ever have any questions look to the websites for answers or who to go to for answers.
Bonneville UniServ encourage all members and potential members to check out the websites and take advantages of all of the information that is there. If you ever have any questions look to the websites for answers or who to go to for answers.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Provo Education Association New Teacher Social
The Provo Education Association will be hosting a new teacher social at the Grandview Learning Center. The address is 1591 North Jordan Ave in Provo, Utah. Everyone is invited, there will be light refreshments and new teachers will recieve a "New Teacher" survival bag. We look forward to meeting everyone.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
New Teacher Luncheons
The Alpine Education Association will hold its annual new teacher luncheon Monday, August 10th at Lone Peak High School. Association Reps. will meet at 10:00 a.m. for a representative training.
The Provo Education Association will host a New Teacher Social Monday, August 10th. The association reps. will meet at 2:00 p.m. for a short training then all will meet with new teachers.
The location is to be announced. Stay tuned!
Nebo Education Association will meet with their new teachers on Wednesday August 12th at Springville High School. The reps. will meet at 10:00 a.m. for a rep. traning and they will have lunch with the new teachers.
The Bonneville staff is excited to meet the new teachers and answer any questions that they may have about the association.
The Provo Education Association will host a New Teacher Social Monday, August 10th. The association reps. will meet at 2:00 p.m. for a short training then all will meet with new teachers.
The location is to be announced. Stay tuned!
Nebo Education Association will meet with their new teachers on Wednesday August 12th at Springville High School. The reps. will meet at 10:00 a.m. for a rep. traning and they will have lunch with the new teachers.
The Bonneville staff is excited to meet the new teachers and answer any questions that they may have about the association.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Bonneville Bucket Golf Tournament Huge Success
On June 1, 2009, the Bonneville UniServ hosted the Bonneville Bucket to raise money for Kids Cause. Over ninety golfers participated. The day was sunny and warm creating an inviting environment for those golfing and those working to make the event successful. After the the golfing was done the golfers enjoyed hamburgers and hot dogs and prizes were given away.
There were golfers from Nebo, Provo, and Alpine School Districts.
There were many hole sponsors and we would like to say thanks to the companies for their generosity and to the Bonneville UniServ Staff who organized set up, and made the day work! Over five thousand dollars was raised and donated to the United Way in the Kids Cause name. Kids Cause is a teacher driven fund that gives teachers a portal to help students who need school supplies, clothing, eye glasses, hearing aides, and anything else to make their school days successful.
There were golfers from Nebo, Provo, and Alpine School Districts.
There were many hole sponsors and we would like to say thanks to the companies for their generosity and to the Bonneville UniServ Staff who organized set up, and made the day work! Over five thousand dollars was raised and donated to the United Way in the Kids Cause name. Kids Cause is a teacher driven fund that gives teachers a portal to help students who need school supplies, clothing, eye glasses, hearing aides, and anything else to make their school days successful.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Bonneville UniServ Will Hold Annual Retreat
On Tuesday June 2, 2009, the Bonneville UniServ directors, staff, and local leadership will meet at Salem Hills High School to meet together for their annual retreat. The 2009-10 budget will be set and approved, new teacher orientation dates will be set and planned and local issues discussed. Important teacher vendors will be there to present information that may be useful in new teacher orientation. This annual retreat is vital to the organization of the UniServ as it drives the activities that will be planned for the next school year.
Carbon County Education Association Ratifies 2009-10 Agreement
Negotiations Summary
School Year 2009-2010
Benefits and Benefit Changes
· Steps/Lanes funded
· Insurance premium increase of 6.4% funded – no increase of cost to employees
· 180 contract days with additional 2 days from Quality Teaching – 182 total days
· Early Retirement Incentive payments will no longer be based on the employee’s last year of salary, but on their highest year
· Early Retirement Incentive will not be offered to anyone hired or rehired after January 1, 2009
· No change to Early Retirement Incentive of 20/20/20 with Insurance benefit
· Early Retirement Incentive of 50/50/50 will change from payments of “50% of highest base salary for three consecutive years” to “25% of highest base salary for six consecutive years”
· District will no longer contribute 50% of premium cost of Long-Term Disability Insurance
· District will no longer participate in the Blomquist-Hale Employee Assistance Program
Jim Thompson was elected to the position of CCEA President and Janis Blake was elected as Vice-president.
School Year 2009-2010
Benefits and Benefit Changes
· Steps/Lanes funded
· Insurance premium increase of 6.4% funded – no increase of cost to employees
· 180 contract days with additional 2 days from Quality Teaching – 182 total days
· Early Retirement Incentive payments will no longer be based on the employee’s last year of salary, but on their highest year
· Early Retirement Incentive will not be offered to anyone hired or rehired after January 1, 2009
· No change to Early Retirement Incentive of 20/20/20 with Insurance benefit
· Early Retirement Incentive of 50/50/50 will change from payments of “50% of highest base salary for three consecutive years” to “25% of highest base salary for six consecutive years”
· District will no longer contribute 50% of premium cost of Long-Term Disability Insurance
· District will no longer participate in the Blomquist-Hale Employee Assistance Program
Jim Thompson was elected to the position of CCEA President and Janis Blake was elected as Vice-president.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Nebo Education Association Ratifies Negotiated Agreement
The Nebo Educatiion Association ratified the agreement negotiated between the Nebo School District and the Nebo Education Association. The agreement is listed below.
AGREEMENT BETWEEN NEBO SCHOOL DISTRICT
AND THE NEBO EDUCATION ASSOCIATION
May 14, 2009
Salary Base Increase -- 0% for COLA
Salary Adjustments $4,200 will continue to be added to each cell in the Certified Salary Schedule.
Insurance Fund the Public Employees Health Program insurance at the Advantage Plan (HMO, with IHC Care providers only) as an 85/15 plan; and fund the Summit Plan (HMO, with the Mountain Star and Iasis hospitals only) as an 85/15 plan. Change deductible on standard plans from $100/$300 to $200/$600 for contracted providers and from $200/$600 to $400/$1200 for non-contracted providers. Change out of pocket maximum from $2000/$6000 to $3500/$7500 for contracted providers and from $4000/$12000 to $5000/$13000 for non-contracted providers. Employees will continue to pay 11% of their monthly premium ($35.50 for Single Coverage, $76.00 for Two Party Coverage, and $105.75 for Family Coverage). There are also changes to the mail order pharmacy benefits. The District will continue to offer the High Deductible/Health Plan with the Health Savings Account.
Steps and Lanes Fully fund Step and Lane increments.
Article 2.12 This article will read: "If the District budget is cut by the state during the contract year, the District shall have the discretion to impose further furlough days(s) for the current contract year, after consulting with association leadership."
Article 9 This article will be deleted from the Agreement Book.
Article 15.2 This article will read: “The teaching contract for Certified Employees is 184 days with additional Quality Teaching Block Grant days."
Appendix A A new teacher evaluation instrument will be used beginning in 2009-2010. The new documents will be included in Appendix A of the Certified Negotiated Agreement.
Definitions “Furlough Day” means a day for which teachers are not paid and do not come to work. The Furlough Days are: August 13-14, March 19.
“District Development Day” means a day that is not an instructional day, but teachers are paid and come to work. Use of time on this day is at the discretion of the district.
The DDD’s on August 17-18, October 30, and January 15 are part of the 184 day contract.
The DDD on September 25 is being paid for from one-time federal stimulus money and is not part of the 184 day contract. This DDD is for the 2009-2010 school year only.
AGREEMENT BETWEEN NEBO SCHOOL DISTRICT
AND THE NEBO EDUCATION ASSOCIATION
May 14, 2009
Salary Base Increase -- 0% for COLA
Salary Adjustments $4,200 will continue to be added to each cell in the Certified Salary Schedule.
Insurance Fund the Public Employees Health Program insurance at the Advantage Plan (HMO, with IHC Care providers only) as an 85/15 plan; and fund the Summit Plan (HMO, with the Mountain Star and Iasis hospitals only) as an 85/15 plan. Change deductible on standard plans from $100/$300 to $200/$600 for contracted providers and from $200/$600 to $400/$1200 for non-contracted providers. Change out of pocket maximum from $2000/$6000 to $3500/$7500 for contracted providers and from $4000/$12000 to $5000/$13000 for non-contracted providers. Employees will continue to pay 11% of their monthly premium ($35.50 for Single Coverage, $76.00 for Two Party Coverage, and $105.75 for Family Coverage). There are also changes to the mail order pharmacy benefits. The District will continue to offer the High Deductible/Health Plan with the Health Savings Account.
Steps and Lanes Fully fund Step and Lane increments.
Article 2.12 This article will read: "If the District budget is cut by the state during the contract year, the District shall have the discretion to impose further furlough days(s) for the current contract year, after consulting with association leadership."
Article 9 This article will be deleted from the Agreement Book.
Article 15.2 This article will read: “The teaching contract for Certified Employees is 184 days with additional Quality Teaching Block Grant days."
Appendix A A new teacher evaluation instrument will be used beginning in 2009-2010. The new documents will be included in Appendix A of the Certified Negotiated Agreement.
Definitions “Furlough Day” means a day for which teachers are not paid and do not come to work. The Furlough Days are: August 13-14, March 19.
“District Development Day” means a day that is not an instructional day, but teachers are paid and come to work. Use of time on this day is at the discretion of the district.
The DDD’s on August 17-18, October 30, and January 15 are part of the 184 day contract.
The DDD on September 25 is being paid for from one-time federal stimulus money and is not part of the 184 day contract. This DDD is for the 2009-2010 school year only.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Important Flu Information
Influenza Information and Notices
Known School Closures
District/School
Affected Dates
Park City School District
Now through at least May 4
Information for Educators
Recommendations for Teachers and School Personnel (includes advice on recognizing flu in children and help on preventing spread of the disease in the classroom)
Information for Parents
What are schools and state health officials doing and what can you do reduce the risk of your child getting the flu?
More information on
Swine-Origin Influenza A (H1N1) Virus: Utah Department of Health
(includes Utah daily situational report)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(includes reported cases nationwide)
Known School Closures
District/School
Affected Dates
Park City School District
Now through at least May 4
Information for Educators
Recommendations for Teachers and School Personnel (includes advice on recognizing flu in children and help on preventing spread of the disease in the classroom)
Information for Parents
What are schools and state health officials doing and what can you do reduce the risk of your child getting the flu?
More information on
Swine-Origin Influenza A (H1N1) Virus: Utah Department of Health
(includes Utah daily situational report)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(includes reported cases nationwide)
Kim R. Burningham honored at UEA House of Delegates
Kim R. Burningham past president of the Utah State Office of Education Board and strong advocate for teachers and common sense education was honored by the UEA House of Delegates on April 25, 2009. Mr. Burningham has been a champion for public education for many years. His love of education and teachers has been evident as he has stood up to those who want to privatize education. Mr. Burningham is presently a member of the Utah State Board of Education and will continue to be a strong advocate for Utah's public education. He is shown with State Representatives and UniServ Director's Chris Watkins and Laura Black.
Arch Coal Teacher Achievment Award
On Tuesday, April 28, 2009, the Arch Coal Company honored five teachers from five rural districts where the Arch Coal employees live. Carbon County was honored to have Carol Carlson, a third grade teacher at Wellington Elementary win one of the prestigious awards.
This award is given to teachers all over the United States, Arch Coal is in its third year of presenting these awards. Teachers have to be nominated by parents or colleagues and then the company has them complete a rigorous application. The winners are chosen by a cadre of teachers and then honored at a luncheon and presentation at a local school. This year the awards assembly was at Wellington Elementary. Many school superintendents, principals, and local civic leaders were in attendance. The students at Wellington Elementary were thrilled to have Mrs. Carlson win! Carol has been a past president for the Carbon County Education Association and is presently the secretary for the local association. Bonneville UniServ is pleased to have another "winner" among our teaching ranks. Congratulations for a teaching job well done.
Dr. Nancy Livingston Honored
Dr. Nancy Livingston was honored at the UEA House of Delegates on Saturday, April 25, 2009.
Dr. Livingston is a living legend known for her tireless work in improving the skills of teachers in teaching reading. Her sense of humor is and quick wit help make this remarkable woman a true "Educators" friend and advocate. A very special thank you to a remarkable teacher and friend.
UEA House of Delegates
On Saturday April 25, the Utah Education Assoiciation (UEA) held their annual House of Delegates Convention. Teacher delegates met at Alta High School to hear about pertinant information, honor outstanding educators and education advocates. A number of bills were presented to the delegates for debate and voting. Bill number B2 was written to freeze the UEA dues for one year, after much debated this bill was defeated. Bill number B5 would have added a new section to Article I, Section 1.4 of the UEA Bylaws, it would have created a different due structure and cost for teachers in the first three 
years of teaching. Again after much debate this bill was defeated. Bonneville UniServ director Ron Firmagae and Executive Secretary Glenda Anderson cooked yummy steaks for the Bonneville UniServ delegates. The four locals contributed salads, rolls, dutch oven beans, and cookies for the lunch. A big "Thank You!" for all who contributed to this busy day.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Paul Bradley receives Crystal Apple Award
Paul Bradley has been in education for nearly thirty years. He began his career teaching third grade at Park Elementary, Paul them moved to Barnett Elementary and taught for thirteen years, he now teaches at Mt. Loafer Elementary. Paul worked on and received his masters degree and has served on many school and district committees. His gentle, kind nature along with his high expectations and positive work ethic combine to help mold youthful lives in nurturing them to achieve their highest potential. Paul is married to Pat Bradley and they have seven children and eight grandchildren with three more to arrive this summer. Paul has been a great leader and mentor and is appreciative of this award given to him by Horace Mann.
The New Groove
By Brooke Alderks
Ever find that your students can’t keep their arms and legs still? Most of us discourage such behavior in the classroom. Not this teacher. Linda Rossiter of Spring Creek Elementary finds getting those wiggles out daily is a huge benefit. Every day for 30 minutes, her class of 22 first graders visits the gym where they warm up, join hands, and get their energy out.
Some may argue that dance is not in the curriculum and that it’s unnecessary. Linda finds a way to integrate dance into the core subjects. Vocabulary, math, science, and social skills are taught through dance. Ms. Rossiter comments, “If for example, you teach the water cycle through dance, the students will remember it. Teach it with a piece of paper and it may be forgotten.”
Studies have shown that dance increases a child’s ability to listen and to focus. Linda states, “Dance has helped my students' learn in an extreme way. It trains their brain to learn.” Not only do they learn, but students enjoy themselves and learning is a lot more interesting and fun. Teachers who use dance and other fine arts to teach core curriculum are finding that teaching is less mundane. Linda states, “I have found a new joy in teaching.”
Finding joy in wiggling children? It’s possible, but how? Brain Dance is a program Linda has been using for 2 years. Learn about the program and founder Anne Green Gilbert at www.creativedance.org. Teaching has a new groove, so why not join it?
By Brooke Alderks
Ever find that your students can’t keep their arms and legs still? Most of us discourage such behavior in the classroom. Not this teacher. Linda Rossiter of Spring Creek Elementary finds getting those wiggles out daily is a huge benefit. Every day for 30 minutes, her class of 22 first graders visits the gym where they warm up, join hands, and get their energy out.
Some may argue that dance is not in the curriculum and that it’s unnecessary. Linda finds a way to integrate dance into the core subjects. Vocabulary, math, science, and social skills are taught through dance. Ms. Rossiter comments, “If for example, you teach the water cycle through dance, the students will remember it. Teach it with a piece of paper and it may be forgotten.”
Studies have shown that dance increases a child’s ability to listen and to focus. Linda states, “Dance has helped my students' learn in an extreme way. It trains their brain to learn.” Not only do they learn, but students enjoy themselves and learning is a lot more interesting and fun. Teachers who use dance and other fine arts to teach core curriculum are finding that teaching is less mundane. Linda states, “I have found a new joy in teaching.”
Finding joy in wiggling children? It’s possible, but how? Brain Dance is a program Linda has been using for 2 years. Learn about the program and founder Anne Green Gilbert at www.creativedance.org. Teaching has a new groove, so why not join it?
Monday, April 13, 2009
100% For Kids an OK Charity sponsored by the Utah Credit Union Education Foundation released details of its second quarter of the 2008-09 school year. It gave away more than $106,000 to 103 teachers. One special grant was give to Payson Jr. High to purchase new microscopes for their science department. The Nebo School District generously matched the $3,000.00 grant giving Payson Jr. High a total of $6,000.00 to spend on microscopes. A very special "Thank You!" to the Utah Credit UnionEducation Foundation and the Nebo School District. During these difficult and challenging economic times it is heart warming to know that education is important to many the people who can donate and help out our struggling schools.
Friday, March 27, 2009
BONNEVILLE UNISERV
18th Annual Bonneville Bucket
GOLF TOURNAMENT
For Alpine, Carbon, Nebo & Provo Educators!
June 1st, 7:30 a.m. at
Sleepy Ridge Golf Course
700 Sleepy Ridge Drive, Orem
(1000 South Geneva Road)
Don’t miss out on your chance to play golf with fellow teachers, receive awards, get some grub and win prizes, prizes and more prizes!
o Shotgun Start – Best Ball Tournament
o Individual players may register and be pooled into foursomes
o Complimentary autographed team photos with retired pro golfer Billy Casper
o $50 per person includes: entry fee, green fee, cart, prizes and Kids Cause donations
o Free Range Balls available before tournament starts
o Bring $ for Mulligans and Raffle Tickets
o Prizes available at every hole
o After Tournament: Awards, Prizes, Free Lunch and Raffles
o Deadline to register is May 1st forms must be turned into Bonneville UniServ
For tournament questions call:
Bonneville UniServ
39 S. 400 W., Orem, UT 84058
801-224-2055
18th Annual Bonneville Bucket
GOLF TOURNAMENT
For Alpine, Carbon, Nebo & Provo Educators!
June 1st, 7:30 a.m. at
Sleepy Ridge Golf Course
700 Sleepy Ridge Drive, Orem
(1000 South Geneva Road)
Don’t miss out on your chance to play golf with fellow teachers, receive awards, get some grub and win prizes, prizes and more prizes!
o Shotgun Start – Best Ball Tournament
o Individual players may register and be pooled into foursomes
o Complimentary autographed team photos with retired pro golfer Billy Casper
o $50 per person includes: entry fee, green fee, cart, prizes and Kids Cause donations
o Free Range Balls available before tournament starts
o Bring $ for Mulligans and Raffle Tickets
o Prizes available at every hole
o After Tournament: Awards, Prizes, Free Lunch and Raffles
o Deadline to register is May 1st forms must be turned into Bonneville UniServ
For tournament questions call:
Bonneville UniServ
39 S. 400 W., Orem, UT 84058
801-224-2055
All proceeds go to the Kids Cause Foundation
Detach and return to Bonneville UniServ with payment by May 1st, 2009
18th Annual Bonneville Bucket – June 1st
GOLF TOURNAMENT
ENTRY FORM
$50 Covers: Fees, cart, prizes & Kids Cause donation
Name________________District___________School________
Address______________________________Phone_________
Foursome Preference _________________ ________________
_________________ ________________
INDIVIDUAL PLAYER (will be placed in foursome)_____________
Detach and return to Bonneville UniServ with payment by May 1st, 2009
18th Annual Bonneville Bucket – June 1st
GOLF TOURNAMENT
ENTRY FORM
$50 Covers: Fees, cart, prizes & Kids Cause donation
Name________________District___________School________
Address______________________________Phone_________
Foursome Preference _________________ ________________
_________________ ________________
INDIVIDUAL PLAYER (will be placed in foursome)_____________
Dear NEA Member,
Greetings! There are many new ideas out there to help teachers. NEA has created a web-site called “Works-4-Me” which are tried and true teaching hints suggested by NEA members. Each week you will receive an e-mail with six helpful (and short) hints to help you in your teaching. They will fall under the following categories:
Teaching Techniques
Content
Getting Organized
Managing Your Classroom
Relationships
Using Technology
In addition, you will get information about your NEA Member Benefits that are available to you through your membership in the Association. Click on the link or visit http://www.neamb.com/.
Teaching Techniques
Student Control of Learning
"I design an activity that offers opportunity for personal expression and that will require students to use a small piece of information that they DON'T have, such as a vocabulary word or a verb tense. Once they realize they need to know that, they will want to learn it because it has become their decision to learn it, not mine. Things acquired in this way seem to stick much better."
Content
Reading in the Halls
"For Read Across America, we took time at the end of the day and every single student and teacher sat in the hallway and read for thirty minutes. It was awesome! Our principal feels that we should do this every week. I hope we can do that. It was wonderful!"
Getting Organized
Extra Copy Box
"I frequently have students absent, leaving my room for music lessons, calls to the office, nurse, etc. I have a box in my room labeled extra copies. After I pass out worksheets, I put 10 extra copies in the box for students to use. When a student comes back to my room and notices we are working on a sheet he/she doesn't have, they know to go to the extra copy box and get the sheet. I post all assignments on my backboard so they could check to see what they missed and do not have. I leave the assignments up for two weeks. This has eliminated them interrupting class to ask for a worksheet and makes them responsible for catching up on work they missed. Frequently students may ask to recopy a worksheet because it is sloppy and they want to do it over, I just tell them to go to the box and get another copy. This also instills pride in their work."
Managing Your Classroom
Group Work
"When choosing groups, I tell my students that when they are working they will not always be working with their best friend. I remind them that an important part of class is learning how to work in a group."
Stick Grouping
"I vary my classroom groups by greeting each student at the door with a craft stick. The tips of the sticks are color coded according to the area of the room they must go to or the activity they must work on first. This allows for a differentiation in grouping. The students really like this method and it's very simple to control."
Relationships
Reflections on the Quarter Past
"When report card time approaches, I ask my students, without submitting their names, to reflect and write short notes on what to change, delete and add to the class. Sometimes students have insight that teachers forget to consider. Their comments help me improve my lessons and teaching techniques as well as see myself through their eyes. This gives my students ownership and gives me some grounding."
Using Technology
Movie Night
"I add a blank tape to my list of supplies at the beginning of the year. The students and I use a digital camera to take pictures of classroom activities all year. We use Photo Studio software to download the pictures to videotape and can even put music to accompany these pictures. Our year ends with a class movie night. Parents and students come view our class memory tape. Everyone enjoys the tape tremendously. I make individual copies on the blank tapes students brought in at the beginning of the year so all students have their own copies. It is a wonderful way to capture and celebrate student accomplishments."
Greetings! There are many new ideas out there to help teachers. NEA has created a web-site called “Works-4-Me” which are tried and true teaching hints suggested by NEA members. Each week you will receive an e-mail with six helpful (and short) hints to help you in your teaching. They will fall under the following categories:
Teaching Techniques
Content
Getting Organized
Managing Your Classroom
Relationships
Using Technology
In addition, you will get information about your NEA Member Benefits that are available to you through your membership in the Association. Click on the link or visit http://www.neamb.com/.
Teaching Techniques
Student Control of Learning
"I design an activity that offers opportunity for personal expression and that will require students to use a small piece of information that they DON'T have, such as a vocabulary word or a verb tense. Once they realize they need to know that, they will want to learn it because it has become their decision to learn it, not mine. Things acquired in this way seem to stick much better."
Content
Reading in the Halls
"For Read Across America, we took time at the end of the day and every single student and teacher sat in the hallway and read for thirty minutes. It was awesome! Our principal feels that we should do this every week. I hope we can do that. It was wonderful!"
Getting Organized
Extra Copy Box
"I frequently have students absent, leaving my room for music lessons, calls to the office, nurse, etc. I have a box in my room labeled extra copies. After I pass out worksheets, I put 10 extra copies in the box for students to use. When a student comes back to my room and notices we are working on a sheet he/she doesn't have, they know to go to the extra copy box and get the sheet. I post all assignments on my backboard so they could check to see what they missed and do not have. I leave the assignments up for two weeks. This has eliminated them interrupting class to ask for a worksheet and makes them responsible for catching up on work they missed. Frequently students may ask to recopy a worksheet because it is sloppy and they want to do it over, I just tell them to go to the box and get another copy. This also instills pride in their work."
Managing Your Classroom
Group Work
"When choosing groups, I tell my students that when they are working they will not always be working with their best friend. I remind them that an important part of class is learning how to work in a group."
Stick Grouping
"I vary my classroom groups by greeting each student at the door with a craft stick. The tips of the sticks are color coded according to the area of the room they must go to or the activity they must work on first. This allows for a differentiation in grouping. The students really like this method and it's very simple to control."
Relationships
Reflections on the Quarter Past
"When report card time approaches, I ask my students, without submitting their names, to reflect and write short notes on what to change, delete and add to the class. Sometimes students have insight that teachers forget to consider. Their comments help me improve my lessons and teaching techniques as well as see myself through their eyes. This gives my students ownership and gives me some grounding."
Using Technology
Movie Night
"I add a blank tape to my list of supplies at the beginning of the year. The students and I use a digital camera to take pictures of classroom activities all year. We use Photo Studio software to download the pictures to videotape and can even put music to accompany these pictures. Our year ends with a class movie night. Parents and students come view our class memory tape. Everyone enjoys the tape tremendously. I make individual copies on the blank tapes students brought in at the beginning of the year so all students have their own copies. It is a wonderful way to capture and celebrate student accomplishments."
Bonneville Welcomes Back Former Director
December 1, 2008, former Bonneville UniServ Director Christine (Chris) Watkins returned to fill a vacancy in the office. Chris retired and returned to teaching for one year in the Carbon School District. She then became the elementary principal at Pinnacle Canyon Academy in Price. Chris believes that the two and half year hiatus gave her a better understanding of what teachers are facing today. As a principal she also gained an appreciation of the pressures that administrators have. “I loved going back as a special education teacher, but I really enjoyed leading teachers and working with all of the students as an administrator.”
Last March Chris decided to run for the Utah State Legislature for District 69. District 69 encompasses most of Carbon County, Green River in Emery County, part of the west side of Grand County, all of San Juan County and a small portion of Wayne County. Chris had to make it through the State Democratic Convention, she did, and then she had a Primary Race, she won that race. Chris continued to campaign very hard and on November 4, 2008, she was victorious. After a few weeks she realized that winning this office was truly a “life changing event” and she knew she could not be an effective educational leader being away from school. She resigned her position as principal and was fortunate to be able to come back to the Bonneville UniServ.
Chris is very happy to be back serving teachers and public education. One of her main assignments is membershipping and she is asking Association Reps. to give her a call or email (chris@bonneville.org) and she will gladly come to a faculty meeting or come to any school to talk individually with any member or potential member. “I have been a member of UEA my whole professional career and believe in public education and love advocating for public school teachers.”
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