Posted on 09/20/2004 9:49:21 AM PDT by Republican Wildcat
Class size can make a difference because we can catch those falling behind before they get frustrated and give up.
But beyond all of that, parental involvement is more influential than any teacher will ever be.
Unfortunately, your union makes that impossible in most cases.
My niece and nephew go to school in GA. Yes, the school years starts at the beginning of August and goes til June. But they get a week off in September (they just came for a visit) 3 weeks at Christmas, and I believe a 2 week spring break. Take those out and you end up with about a 9 month school year like everyone else.
Try getting health care without union involvement. Give Blue Cross a call. I'll bet they beat your union deal
Another reason why homeschooling is the best choice for me. And before you freak out at me, we own our own business and because we are very small, must insure as individuals. I know our health care was not nearly as high as what you quoted. We live in one of the top districts in Missouri and still choose not to send our kids there, although I still have to pay for the services of which I do not avail myself. So I find it incredibly hard to have sympathy on you.
We all want more for our families. Don't you get that?? The trouble with what you are saying is that you want ME to foot the bill so you can have more.
My guess is that it's close to zero on 38K. Yet you will participate in an illegal strike for what, $3000? Doesn't make sense.
Rather you should get a summer job, which could easily handle that amount.
I suggest you bring this up at the next union meeting. I'm sure all of the members will see the logic in my proposal and thank you for helping them see the light.
You could explain to them how the working poor, especially women and minorities, will be hit hardest by the tax increases required.
Your Union is ripping you off if they are telling you that is what insurance will cost.
My parents don't even pay that and they have to pay top dollar because their insurance has to be accepted worldwide and the demographic of their group is over 50 and so-so health.
You might want to check out why your union is lying to you.
If you want on or off the Kentucky PING list, let me know.
bttt
bttt
I happen to be an employee of the federal government and have the Federal Employees Health Benefit Plan. My current carrier is Mail Hnadlers, high option. My premium in 2004 is $180.61 every two weeks. In 2005 the premium is increasing to $296.79, an increase of $116.18 every two weeks, or $3020.68 a year.
I do have the option of switching and am going to do so. Moving to a plan with a high deductible and a Health Savings Account. I will pay less and have almost $2000 in the HSA every year and still have PPO coverage for major illness. Fortunately we are all healthy and do not have major health problems.
My point is, my SIL is a teacher and all she did this weekend was complain about the cost of her insurance. I guess she thinks she is the only one facing an increase.
thanks... :)) bttt
Here are two press releases from Fletcher's office. The first is released before the vote for a strike, the second released after the KEA voted to strike. Notice the difference in tone. Fletcher was already working with them and was negotiating a better scenario, but they voted to strike anyway. Our common sense already told us this, but it is now beyond obvious the KEA is coordinating with the Kentucky Dem party to try to influence the election -- the Oct. 27 date for the strike makes it obvious.
Press release 1:
STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR ERNIE FLETCHER REGARDING A POSSIBLE KEA STRIKE
Over the last several days, I have met with many state employees, public school teachers and union leaders. I met with Frances Steenbergen and want to keep the lines of communications open.
As Governor however, it would be inappropriate to negotiate if they choose to promote an illegal strike.
No illegal strike or other organized job action can be justified. I am concerned and compassionate about the impact of health insurance costs on all state employees and teachers. An illegal strike or work stoppage would be harmful to our children.
What makes this situation even more frustrating is that the problem of escalating health care costs has been neglected for so long by previous administrations.
I want teachers and teacher unions to work with my administration toward the goal of parity of teacher compensation with the surrounding states-a goal which I share with the members of the teaching profession.
_____________
Press release #2
STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR ERNIE FLETCHER REGARDING THE KEA UNION'S CALL FOR A STRIKE
I am very disappointed that the KEA union has called for an illegal strike. Certainly, they have gone too far. No person, group or union is above the law. This action is illegal, inappropriate, and sets a dangerous precedent.
The disregard of law always has serious consequences and is highly inappropriate for those who serve as role models for our children in public schools. I urge the union to reconsider.
This action was taken well after midnight following hours upon hours of contentious and chaotic meetings. JCTA's president apparently bullied his colleagues into making a rash and ill-advised decision. An illegal strike harms our children, parents, communities and endangers public respect for the teaching profession.
I have always been open to discuss the KEA union's concerns and any reasonable adjustments they have. However, it is inappropriate for me to negotiate in response to an illegal threat. No illegal strike or other organized job action can be justified. I am concerned and compassionate about the impact of health insurance costs on all state employees and teachers, but an illegal strike or work stoppage would be harmful to our children and our Commonwealth.
...the dice have been thrown...
You know, the last time they tried a statewide strike was in 1970. Quiz: What factor do today and that time have in common?
I live in KY, and I hope the teachers strike. I think that will help kill the Dems here. I cheered out loud when I read Gov. Fletcher's comments.
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