Podcasts about Collective bargaining

It's a bridge episode, but we still got business to handle. Sparty MSU breaks down the six recruits Pat pulled in over the last two weeks — linebackers, corners, a big tight end, and a D-lineman with serious upside. We talk about what the size-first philosophy says about where this program is headed and whether the receiver room is a real concern heading into the season. Then we get into the real stuff — the Big Ten and SEC are going to war with Congress over the Protect College Sports Act, and we've got thoughts on why a collective bargaining agreement is the only real answer. Plus, the NCAA's new age-based eligibility model is heading to a vote this month, and we break down what it means for the future of the game. And of course — Kevin G watch is officially in effect. As of tonight, he has not signed with Clemson. The door is still open. We talk about what he's done right, what he hasn't, and who could step in if it comes to that. Subscribe to the Substack at ThisIsSpartaB1G for weekly articles and deep dives. Go Green.

‘The Coach' Helen Williams and ‘The Guru' Richard Cohen are on today's episode, breaking down the WNBA's collective bargaining agreement and more.HerHoopStats.com: Unlocking better insight about the women's game.The Her Hoop Stats Newsletter: https://herhoopstats.substack.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The looming CBA negotiations are upon us as owners and the MLBPA have initiated their first drafts towards a new collective bargaining agreement. Matt (@BelowAverageOPS) and Nick (@nickakaravolos) break down the two sides with insights as both baseball and Guardians fans/analysts.

Ben, Woods, and Paul are here for you on a Friar Friday! We start the show with a little foreplay as the guys talk about how ready for the weekend they are after a 4 day work week that felt like an 8 day week. Then we set the menu for today's show and discuss some updates as talks continue between MLB owners and the Player's Association in Collective Bargaining. Listen here!

Blake Toppmeyer reporting back from SEC Spring Meetings on Coaches Complaints & Disagreements from School to School, Discussions on New Legislation and Collective Bargaining, Steve Sarkisian and Pete Golding Comments; Top 5 Things We're Excited for this Weekend; Tell Your Story, Steve Sarkisian.

OEA Locals are not one-size-fits all franchises, like chain restaurant locations - Each Local faces unique circumstances, challenges, and opportunities. And, they each have different needs for support from the state organization. That's what OEA President Jeff Wensing has been hearing as he's talked to members across the state during his ongoing listening tour. Now, in this season finale episode, Jeff reflects on some of the common challenges members have shared - especially around state funding - and he shares his thoughts on what we can do right now to meet this moment. One message rises above all: we're stronger together. SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK | If you'd like to share your thoughts on the Public Education Matters podcast, including your ideas for what you'd like to hear on future episodes, please email educationmatters@ohea.org.SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Jeff Wensing, Ohio Education Association PresidentA high school math teacher in Parma City Schools, Jeff Wensing was elected OEA President in 2025 after serving as the Association's vice president for six years. A public education advocate and leader for more than 33 years, Jeff served as President of the Parma Education Association from 2012-2018, and as President of the North Eastern Ohio Education Association (NEOEA) from 2016-2018. He served on OEA's Constitution and Bylaws Committee and President's Cabinet, as Vice Chair of OEA's District Leaders Council, and as a member of the Fiscal Fitness Review Committee and Systemic Practices Committee. As Vice President, Jeff continued to emphasize the importance of organizing members throughout the state.Jeff believes OEA's commitment must be unwavering in protecting, promoting, and strengthening Ohio's public schools. As President, he maintains open and effective communication with the OEA Board and district and local leaders to continue building OEA's collective strength and lead the Association's advocacy for all students and educators and efforts to ensure equity and inclusion.As President, Jeff prioritizes empowering local affiliates, equipping leaders for successful negotiations, expanding and diversifying OEA membership, enhancing political advocacy, safeguarding equitable funding for public schools, opposing unchecked voucher expansion, defending collective bargaining rights, and promoting safe and supportive schools.Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on May 4, 2026.

The latest episode of Town Matters covers the May 19 Brattleboro Selectboard meeting and previews the first meeting of June. Town Matters, the Town of Brattleboro's podcast, summarizes Selectboard meetings so you can quickly catch up on local government while you go about your day. Show notes: May 19 meeting – Details The public is invited to the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Amtrak station on June 24. The Town is co-hosting a community conversation on opioid use disorder on June 9.  Rec & Parks to offer Sunday-night kickball for adults. Apply for a board or committee.

Melissa Arnold Lyon joins The Education Gadfly Show to discuss Fordham's new report, A Crowded Table: Teacher Union Strength in 2026, and what has changed in state education politics since Fordham's 2012 analysis of teacher union power. How influential are teacher unions today, where are they strongest, and what does a more crowded political landscape mean for education policy?Then, on the Research Minute, Amber Northern examines new research on the Common Core State Standards and their effects on achievement beyond math and English language arts.Recommended content:A Crowded Table: Teacher Union Strength in 2026 —Melissa Arnold Lyon, Sandy Frost Waldron, and Rebecca Jacobsen, Thomas B. Fordham InstituteHow Strong Are U.S. Teacher Unions? A State-By-State Comparison —Amber M. Northern, Ph.D., Janie Scull, and Dara Zeehandelaar Shaw, Ph.D., Thomas B. Fordham InstituteTeachers' Unions and Collective Bargaining —Bradley D. Marianno, Live Handbook: Education Policy Research, an initiative of AEFPThe unintended effects of the Common Core State Standards on non-targeted subjects — Benjamin W. Arold, and M. Danish Shakeel, ScienceDirect (2026)Feedback Welcome: Have ideas for improving our show? We would love to hear them. Send them to thegadfly@fordhaminstitute.org

Collective bargaining is the foundation that organized labor is built on. Truly, it's at the heart of what unions are and what unions do for their members. When UUP negotiates a contract for its members, our union has a equal hand in determining terms of employment—including compensation, job protections, benefits, work hours and more—with our employer, the state of New York. Over the years, UUP has achieved many gains through collective bargaining, from securing health care benefits and per-course minimum pay for part-time employees to annual across-the-board salary increases for our members and everyone we represent in our bargaining unit. In our current contract, which expires July 1, we negotiated to have New York's Paid Parental Leave—up to 12 weeks of guaranteed, fully paid leave following the birth, adoption or foster placement of a child—added to our agreement with the state. We also established 7-year and 12-year retention awards based on an employee's length of service—a UUP goal for decades. We also maintained our health benefits package with no increases in copays or employee share of premiums. These gains were not easily gotten. They never are. In this episode of The Voice Podcast, host Fred Kowal--who's also UUP's statewide president--talks to three people who were at the table to negotiate UUP's last three contracts with the state of New York. They are: Former statewide Vice President for Academics Jamie Dangler, chief negotiator for our 2011-2016 contract, easily one of UUP's most difficult contracts to negotiate.  Elizabeth Hough, UUP's former counsel to the president, who was at the table for two UUP contracts, the 2016-2022 agreement and the union's current 2022-2026 contract, which expires July 1. UUP Chief Negotiator Bret Benjamin served on UUP's Negotiations Team for the 2016-22 agreement and was chief negotiator for our current contract. He's also chief negotiator for a new contract we're negotiating with the state. In Labor Lookback, Mike Lisi explores the impact President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Works Progress Administration had on workers and the entire country during the Great Depression. He also looks at the life of folk icon Pete Seeger, a longtime union supporter. Kowal discusses the brings home the importance of collective bargaining to unions in Kowal's Coda. Music used in this podcast: "It's Got to be Love" - Henry King & His Orchestra with vocal by Joseph Sudy  "Solidarity Forever" - Pete Seeger 

OEA Locals can amplify the impact of their members' dues dollars through OEA grant programs - especially now, with the new Local Capacity Grants that are available just for completing a Local Capacity Toolkit assessment. The Tallmadge Teachers Association let the needs identified in that self-assessment drive their decisions not only to create a political action committee for their local, but also to create Action Plans to address needs in several other areas. Those Action Plans allowed them to access more Local Capacity Grant funding to support those new projects. TTA leaders join us for this episode to talk about how their Local Capacity and Wellness grants-fueled initiatives have strengthened member, student, and community engagement with their association.  GRANT FUNDING IN ACTION | Watch this short video to see photos from a few of the many grant-supported projects the Tallmadge Teachers Association members mention in this episode!CATCH UP | Click here to listen to our conversation with OEA Secretary-Treasurer Rob McFee from earlier this season about the OEA grants that are available and the changes that have been made to make this funding more accessible and impactful for local associations. Your Dues Dollars at Work: What you need to know about OEA's Local Affiliate GrantsJUMP AHEAD | Helpful timecodes to hear about some of Tallmadge TA's initiatives and projects:4:00 - Starting a political action committee, based on needs identified in the Local Capacity Grant toolkit assessment10:00 - Cultural events at the middle and high schools16:00 - Improving association visibility with kindergarten graduation t-shirts19:45 - OEA Wellness Grant-funded Survival Bags21:00 - Bagel-fed and Bracelet-bound, thanks to OEA Wellness Grant funding21:45 - Promoting Leadership with New TeachersLEARN MORE ABOUT THE OEA GRANTS:For more information about the Local Capacity Grant, click here. Additional information can be found on the OEA Grants and Scholarships page, in the bottom right corner.For more information about the OEA Wellness Grants, click here. For details about the Special Projects and Effective Local grants, click here. The application form is available here.Click here to learn more about the OEA Foundation Grants.SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guests: Becky Miller, Tallmadge Teachers Association PresidentBecky Miller taught 5 years in Cuyahoga Falls and 30 in Tallmadge, where she is a second grade teacher. She is a past OEA Board member and past NEA Trainer of the Trainers. She currently serves as TTA president, with her term ending June 1st. Audrey Cunert, Tallmadge Teachers AssociationAshley Graham, Tallmadge Teachers Association memberAshley Graham is a School Psychologist who worked for five years in Akron Public Schools before moving to Tallmadge schools four years ago. This year, she has also taken on the responsibility as the coordinator for the English as a Second Language program, though primarily, she still serves as a school psychologist. This is her first year in a leadership position with TTA and she is currently a building rep at Tallmadge Middle School.  Lianna Dauberman, Tallmadge Teachers Association Secretary-ElectNow in her 12th year as a school counselor -- all 12 of which have been in a K-5 setting -- Lianna Dauberman has been in Tallmadge schools for eight years now. She has been a building representative for TTA for the elementary for two years. This summer, she will start her new role as TTA Secretary. Brooke Nagy, Tallmadge Teachers AssociationBrooke Nagy is a kindergarten teacher at Tallmadge Elementary School.  She has been teaching for 25 years and has been a building rep on Tallmadge Teachers Association for the last 17 years.  Jon Bryan, Tallmadge Teachers Association Vice PresidentJon Bryan is currently a fifth-grade teacher in Tallmadge, Ohio, and is finishing his 32nd year in education.  He holds his master's in education from Kent State and is a Nationally Board-Certified Teacher.  Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband an...

Delegate Tom Garrett talks about the Supreme Court ruling of redistricting and Gov. Spanberger's veto of the collective bargaining bill.

Union members have called the veto a “betrayal.” Also: The US Supreme Court denied a request to intervene in Virginia's redistricting fight. Read more from VPM News:  Spanberger's collective bargaining veto tests relationship with labor  Hanover broadband expansion on track for completion by end of 2026  ICYMI: US Supreme Court declines to intervene in Virginia redistricting On the agenda: Richmond public works, Albemarle road maintenance plans    Other links:  Richmond collects $5.6 million related to delinquent taxes from short-term rentals (The Richmonder)  Henrico nursing home facing severe violations after multiple residents abused, state finds (WTVR)  Thrown-out ballots and map confusion: Voters are losing the redistricting battle (NPR)  The future of nuclear fusion energy could be at Jefferson Lab (WHRO News)  Our award-winning work is made possible with your donations. Visit vpm.org/donate to support local journalism.

Tiffin Columbian High School teacher Chris Monsour is the first person to tell you he never thought he'd be a teacher. Now, 27 years later, he's the Ohio Teacher of the Year. In that role, he has spent the 2025-2026 school year traveling around the state and the country, representing Ohio's public school educators, lifting up the positive stories about the power of our public schools, and sharing his message about the importance of staying the course. He joins us for this episode to catch us up on some of the many things he has done and lessons he has learned during his Ohio Teacher of the Year term so far.STAY THE COURSE | Click here to watch a recent Ohio School Spotlight video with Chris Monsour sharing his story of perseverance and dedication as he continues to push his students and fellow educators to “stay the course” and reach their full potential. Click here to check out other features in OEA's Ohio School Spotlight video library. STRONG UNIONS MAKE STRONG PUBLIC SCHOOLS | As part of OEA's ongoing statewide media campaign, Chris highlighted how his local association, the Tiffin Education Association, has been able to keep class sizes managable so they can individualize instruction and improve student outcomes. Click here to watch that TV commercial, and click here to see all of the other locals' stories that are being shared across the state this year. OHIO SCHOOLS | Chris Monsour was featured as the cover story in the December 2025/January 2026 issue of the Ohio Education Association's Ohio Schools magazine. Click here to read the piece. SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms, including YouTube. Click here for links for other platforms so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Chris Monsour, Tiffin Education Association member, 2026 Ohio Teacher of the YearChristopher Monsour teaches a variety of advanced science courses, including College Credit Plus (CCP) Environment and Society, CCP Oceanus, CCP Anatomy and Physiology, Honors Biology, and AP Biology at Columbian High School in Tiffin City Schools. Over the years, he has taught six different CCP courses while serving as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Findlay, Heidelberg University, and Terra State Community College.Monsour's 26 years of teaching experience also includes four years as a student study session consultant for AP Biology, ten summers of teaching at the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth, where he served as both an instructor and the Academic Dean for Science and Math, and two summers teaching English as a Second Language at Tianjin Normal University in the People's Republic of China.With plans as an undergraduate to pursue a career in environmental biology, Monsour earned his bachelor's degree through Heidelberg University. Since then, he has pursued graduate work in biology, ecology, and inquiry, earning two master's degrees: a Master of Arts in Education from Heidelberg University and a Master of Science from Montana State University. In addition to his education and teaching experience, Chris has participated in numerous global expeditions, both on land and at sea, which enhances his ability to keep students engaged and excited about the sciences. Monsour's dedication to teaching has also earned him the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching and Outstanding Biology Teacher of the Year from the National Association of Biology Teachers.Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on April 8, 2026.

Work has begun on both sides as baseball and its players' union seek to avoid a labor stoppage later this year. Correspondent Gethin Coolbaugh reports.

Tim Schneider shares his take of the day.

Gene & Tim debate... "Gene's Gossip Talk" in shots.

Gene kicks off hour 2 with shots & gossip talk(Gene's favorite). Bottom of the hour, its "Fairburn Friday." Matthew Fairburn from The Athletic stops in to gets you all set for Buffalo-Montreal game 2 from Keybank center. As always, Last Call is for you.

Full Show Broadcast. Happy Friday. The Sabres play game 2 vs the Canadiens tonight. Gene, Dennis & Matt get you all set for tonight. Gene shares shots & gossip talk. A fired up Timmy has his hot takes. Plus Last Call is always for you.

Although we're heading into the final weeks of the school year, learning should never stop. OEA members have the opportunity to learn from each other, improve their practice for their students, and build their skills and relationships at this year's OEA Summer Leadership Academy June 22-24 in Columbus. In this episode, we're sitting down with two OEA members who are presenting at SLA about why this is such a valuable experience for educators. We're also hearing from one of the OEA staff members who is co-planning the event about why a fireside chat with the keynote speaker, Tyler James Williams from Abbot Elementary, is just one of the many draws for this year's SLA conference.REGISTER NOW FOR SLA | The OEA Summer Leadership Academy is designed to help OEA members at all levels of the association realize and develop skills and talents as leaders of their profession and their association while building relationships and organizing for power. June 22-24, 2026 - Hyatt Regency Columbus (350 N High Street, Columbus, OH 43215)More information and registration at https://cvent.me/z0aWP9Registration deadline: June 12026 Summer Leadership Academy Features:• Annual OEA District Leaders Event open to all Summer Leadership Academy attendees• Meet and Greet with Ohio's 2026 pro-public education candidates• More than 40 unique sessions to meet your professional learning needs• NEW! A wellness session block focused on balance, care, and creativity• Time for you to connect with your colleagues, learn together, and reflect on how OEA members are United for Public EducationJOIN OEA FOR MORE SUMMER FUN | In addition to this year's Summer Leadership Academy, OEA is offering several other opportunities for educators to come together while school is out:GOLF OUTING | Join OEA at Champions Golf Course before you head to SLA on Monday, June 22, 2026.Click here for full details and info about registering your foursome or signing up to attend as a spectator.SUMMER CELEBRATION OF DIVERSE READERS | OEA and the Dayton Education Association will be giving away thousands of free books featuring diverse characters, written by diverse authors at the 4th annual Summer Celebration of Diverse Readers on Saturday, June 13, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Lohery Recreation Center (2366 Glenarm Ave. Dayton, OH 45420)  SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guests: Mackenzie Leonard, Van Buren Education Association memberMackenzie is the EL Program Coordinator and ESL teacher at Van Buren Schools, where she works with students grades PK-12. She is also a member of the Ohio TESOL Board and a proud member of OEA's EL Cadre. Kenzie is a graduate from THE Ohio State University as well as from BGSU and has a passion for developing and fostering cultural awareness and multicultural experiences within small-town communities. Kenzie is a daughter, sister, and "Mama" to her ever-energetic daughter, Palmer!Joie Moore, Pickerington Support Staff Association PresidentJoie Moore serves as the president of the Pickerington Support Staff Association, as a board member of Central OEA/NEA, and on the OEA Board of Directors, representing Central Unit 2. Additionally, she is the Vice Chair of the Ohio Association of Education Support Professionals. She was a participant in the OEA ESP Educator Voice Academy and a 2023 NEA ESP Leadership Academy graduate.  Joie is married to Greg, a fellow OEA member, and they have two adult children, who both graduated from Pickerington Schools, Frankie and Nick.  In her downtime Joie enjoys spending time with her family, crafting, and reading. Daria DeNoia, OEA Education Policy and Practice Consultant In her role as an Education Policy and Practice Consultant for the Ohio Education Association, Daria DeNoia (she, her) advocates for best practices and equitable policies for Ohio educators at the state level, and provides professional development for OEA members that supports their teaching practices.  She has been a special education teacher for young children with significant needs in an urban school district, an experiential pre-school teacher, and a program coordinator for an educational equity organization. Daria believes that communities are strongest when all people work together to create systems that support their needs, and works as a community organizer to build local power. She has her B.A. in English Literature and American Studies from Rutgers College, her M. Ed. in Special Education from the University of Dayton, achieved National Board Certification, and is a certified Restorative Practices Facilitator through IIRP. Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on April 14 and 22, 2026...

A full court press on the WNBA's new collective bargaining agreement, the ins and the outs, how it is affecting things so far in the 2026 season, and more with Helen Williams and Richard Cohen.HerHoopStats.com: Unlocking better insight about the women's game.The Her Hoop Stats Newsletter: https://herhoopstats.substack.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Teacher Appreciation Week is May 4-8 this year, and across the country, we are celebrating the amazing educators who make a big difference for their students every day. This Teacher Appreciation Week, the host of this podcast is showing her appreciation for one educator in particular: Dr. Steve Kucinski, the high school English teacher who taught her how to find her voice and really think for herself. Twenty years after she was in his class, Katie sat down with Dr. K for this episode to share her personal thanks and messages from other former students, and to hear from him about his reflections on his career, the state of education, and what he hopes all of his students took away from their time with him over his 33 years in the classroom.CELEBRATE A GREAT TEACHER IN YOUR LIFE | This Teacher Appreciation Week, tell us about an amazing educator you know, and they could win a resort stay in Mexico from NEA Member Benefits, an Ohio State Fair experience package, gift cards, or other great prizes. Educators, parents, and students are all invited to submit nominations at www.ohea.org/ThankATeacherNomination deadline: May 10, 2026SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guest:Dr. Steve Kucinski, Dublin Education Association memberDr. Steve Kucinski, Nationally Board Certified in 2002 and 2012, has taught middle and high school English for 32 years.  He has a Bachelor's in English Education, a Master's in Educational Administration, and a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and Adolescent Development from The Ohio State University, and is an adjunct lecturer there as well as at Otterbein University and Ashland University. Dr. Kucinski has taught at Dublin Coffman High School for the past 26 years, currently working with grades 9 and 11.  In his district, he has served as department chair and district English Language Arts Lead Teacher. Dr. Kucinski has been committed to learning and growing in ways that will provide him knowledge and experience he can use to be a better instructor, such as scoring AP and SAT essays for College Board, as well as writing and evaluating questions for the ACT.  Dr. Kucinski's publications include a young adult novel, Between Friends, and a Barron's Guide to the Ohio Graduation Test.  Additionally, he delivered a TEDx Talk in Worthington in 2016 entitled, “Resolve to Enjoy the Goodness and Beauty in Each Other and in Life.” He enjoys collaborating with colleagues and presenting at conferences both locally and nationally, truly valuing the chances to learn from and to connect with others.   His most recent work was a contribution to the online materials for an educational psychology textbook. Currently, Dr. Kucinski is passionate about innovation and creativity in teaching and learning, authentic assessment, and integrating technology meaningfully into the classroom. Dr. Kucinski was recently selected as the District 7 Ohio Teacher of the Year for 2024, the 2024 OCTELA Outstanding HS Educator, the 2024 NCTE HS Teacher of Excellence.More: https://stevekucinski.com/Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on April 18, 2026.

Defense Department employees have become the latest to lose their protections provided under collective bargaining agreements as the Trump administration continues to strip workers of their union rights at agencies with national security missions. But unions say they have represented federal workers for decades, have successfully challenged similar efforts in the past and will continue to fight the move. For more, Federal News Network's Anastasia Obis spoke with Ira Rushing from the Tully Rinckey law firm.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ohio's public schools are facing an existential threat. If a measure to eliminate property taxes in Ohio makes it to the ballot and passes this fall, the results would be catastrophic for all of our public schools, students, communities, and local economies. Schools would close and consolidate, class sizes would balloon, programs would be eliminated, and we'd see massive layoffs of educators across the state - not to mention the devastating impact on other essential public services that are also funded by our property taxes. We need to be talking about this and telling everyone we know not to sign the petition. OEA Director of Government Relations Dan Ramos joins us for this episode to talk about how we got here and why eliminating property taxes without a plan to replace that funding is not the way to achieve needed property tax relief.GET THE FACTS | Click here for more information from OEA about school funding and property taxes in Ohio, including the catastrophic impact of the potential ballot measure to eliminate property taxes.  DECLINE TO SIGN | Do not sign the petition to put this constitutional amendment on the ballot! Instead, click here to pledge not to sign the AxOHTax petition — and show that you're committed to protecting public schools, public safety, and your community.RSVP FOR THE NEXT TOWNHALL | OEA is hosting a series of virtual town halls to educate members about this critically important issue. Thursday, April 30, 2026 – 5 p.m.-6 p.m.Thursday, May 28, 2026 – 5 p.m.-6 p.m.Thursday, June 25, 2026 – 5 p.m.-6 p.m.Register at: https://ohea.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_FB_YR5P2QXqH2zpRYRgSRw  LEARN MORE | OEA is part of a growing statewide coalition of educators, parents, first responders, seniors, and community members standing together against AxOHTax. Learn more at protectpublicservices.org. Featured Public Education Matters guest: Dan Ramos, OEA Director of Government RelationsDan Ramos is from Lorain, Ohio, where he attended school at St. John the Baptist and Lorain Southview High School.  After graduating high school in 2003, Dan obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science, International Affairs and Philosophy from Baldwin Wallace College in Berea, OH in 2007.  Through the 2008 presidential election cycle, he joined the Obama for America campaign, working to help elect President Obama in northeastern Ohio.  In 2009, Dan was hired by the Service Employees' International Union (SEIU) District 1199 WV/OH/KY.  Initially working with SEIU as an Administrative Organizer, representing and negotiating contracts for SEIU's state employees' division, he became SEIU 1199's Political and Legislative Liaison in late 2010.  In 2011, Dan worked with fellow labor lobbyists and attorneys in the effort to stop Senate Bill 5 while it was in the General Assembly, and then lead SEIU's efforts field in Central and Northeast Ohio to collect signatures referendum and then defeat SB 5 on the November 2011 ballot.  In 2012, Dan moved to the Ohio Education Association. Dan has served as OEA's Political Advocacy Consultant, where he was responsible for growing OEA's member political action and legislative advocacy, increasing OEA's PAC membership, the Fund for Children and Public Education, and assisting in OEA's political coalitions, such as LEAD Ohio and the America Votes Coalition. In 2018, Dan Ramos moved to Cincinnati, Ohio where he served as a Labor Relations Consultant for the Warren County Leadership Council, representing over 2,400 certified and classified K-12 teachers and ESPs.Dan returned to his political role with OEA in 2021, returning as a UniServ Political Advocacy Consultant and then moving into his current role as the Manager of Government Relations in May of 2022. Now, as the Director of Government Relations, Dan heads up OEA's efforts to engage the Ohio General Assembly and Members of Congress to advance OEA's legislative policy priorities, build relationships with Ohio's elected officials, and engage members in advocacy and accountability programs.  Dan also helps coordinate OEA's political, coalition, and electoral programs.  Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on April 9, 2026.

Public education is not partisan, but it is political. Politicians in the statehouse make decisions that impact Ohio's public school classrooms every day. That's why it is so important that our lawmakers hear directly from the educators who know what these policy decisions mean in our schools. Trotwood Madison Education Association President David Graham wasn't sure what to expect when he had a chance to talk to his state lawmakers the first time he joined his fellow OEA members for a Lobby Day at the statehouse. But as he tells us in this episode, he actually really enjoyed the experience, and he wants other educators to give it a try.REWIND | David Graham is no stranger to the Public Education Matters podcast. Click here to listen to an interview with him in Season 5 about learning the ropes as a new Local president and the support he received from NEA. SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms, including YouTube. Click here for links for other platforms so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: David Graham, President, Trotwood Madison Education AssociationAn 8th grade science teacher at Trotwood Madison Middle School, David Graham is in his 18th year of teaching. He has been president of the Trotwood Madison Education Association since the 2024-2025 school year. Graham received his bachelor's degree in Middle Childhood Education from Wright State University, and later pursued a Master of Arts degree in Religion at Southern Evangelical Seminary, graduating in 2025.Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on March 12, 2026.

OEA's grant programs empower Local associations to do incredible things for educators, students, and their communities. The Twinsburg Education Association has taken those opportunities and put that funding to work to build engagement and support. In this episode, we hear from 14 members of the TEA Grant Committee - yes, 14 guests on this episode! - about some of the amazing events, initiatives, and projects they've been able to do, with the support of their OEA grant funding. These are steal-worthy ideas (in the very best way) and TEA leaders hope you'll do just that!SEE FOR YOURSELF | Watch this short video to see photos from a few of the many grant-supported projects the TEA Grant Committee members mentioned in this episode, including the kindergarten t-shirts, family night with the Cleveland Monsters, and more! CATCH UP | Click here to listen to our conversation with OEA Secretary-Treasurer Rob McFee from earlier this season about the OEA grants that are available and the changes that have been made to make this funding more accessible and impactful for local associations. Your Dues Dollars at Work: What you need to know about OEA's Local Affiliate GrantsJUMP AHEAD | Helpful timecodes to hear about some of Twinsburg EA's initiatives and projects:3:00 - How Twinsburg Education Association got started with the OEA Affiliate and Wellness grants6:00 - The types of grants TEA wrote for the 2025-2026 schoolyear 9:00 - Kindergarten shirts with grant money from the OEA Action Plan12:25 - TEA Winter Party with funding from the OEA Affiliate Grant14:00 - Quarterly newsletter with support from the OEA Action Plan18:00 - TEA podcast, which will be supported by funding through the OEA Action Plan to get materials needed20:45 - OEA Fund Lunch with funding from the OEA Affiliate Grant24:45 - OEA Fund donations increased with an OEA Affiliate Grant-funded prize to encourage engagement26:30 - Family Fun Event at a Cleveland Monsters game, funded by the OEA Affiliate Grant28:45 - Coffee and snacks for each building, thanks to OEA Wellness Grant fundingLEARN MORE ABOUT THE OEA GRANTS:For details about the Special Projects and Effective Local grants, click here. The application form is available here.For more information about the Local Capacity Grant, click here. Additional information can be found on the OEA Grants and Scholarships page, in the bottom right corner.For more information about the OEA Wellness Grants, click here. Click here to learn more about the OEA Foundation Grants.SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guests: Kimberly Fink, Retired Twinsburg Education Association member and former TEA PresidentAfter teaching for 35 years in Twinsburg, Kimberly Fink continues to serve on the Twinsburg Education Association grant committee in her retirement. She was TEA vice president for four years and TEA president for six years, during which time she started the OEA Affiliate Grant and Wellness Grant-funded programs in Twinsburg. Fink was a Team Leader for 18 years and served on six negotiating committees. She also served ten years as a delegate to the NEOEA and OEA Representative Assemblies. She is now a member of TEA-Retired and OEA-Retired, and works as a student teacher supervisor for the University of Akron.Mary Bilinski, Twinsburg Education Association Vice PresidentA third grade teacher at Samuel Bissell Elementary School, Mary Bilinski is in her 25th year of teaching, the last 18 of which in Twinsburg schools. She is currently in her first full year as TEA vice president and NEOEA/OEA Rep. Bilinski has previously served as a TEA building rep for three years (2009-2011 and 2024-205) and has served on two TEA contract negotiations committees. She was a Team Leader in 3rd Grade from 2011 to 2014, and she continues to serve on the Grade 3 Math Ohio Content Advisory Committee for the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. Bilinski has served in that role for the last eleven years. Note: During our conversation in March, Bilinski mentioned she was running in the upcoming TEA elections. She has since shared an update letting us know she was re-elected for another term as TEA Vice President!Scott Peterson, Twinsburg Education Association SecretaryScott Peterson teaches 8th grade Language Arts in Twinsburg and is in his 31st year of teaching. He was a building rep for 11 years, and has been the TEA Secretary for the past five years. Peterson also writes the Politics Corner column for the quarterly TEA newsletter. Outside of his work for TEA and in his classroom, Peterson coaches the 8th grade Power of the Pen team.Kristie Lewis, Twinsburg Education Association memberKristie Lewis is a dedicated educator with 27 years of experience supporting students and public education. She spent eight years as a classroom teacher and has served as a school counselor for the past 19 years. Now in her eighth year with Twinsburg City Schools, Kristie continues to advocate for student success, wellness, and equitable opportunities.In addition to her work with students, Kristie is an active union leader and advocate for educators. She has served as a Building Representative and as a delegate for the Northeast Ohio Education Association, Ohio Education Association, and the National Education Association Representative Assembly for the past three years. Through grants and partnerships with these organizations, she helped provide nearly 200 books to support student learning. Diversity Read-Ins are grant-sponsored events offered by TEA. Kristie believes empathy in solidarity and protecting public education is both her passion and her life's work.Click here to listen to a previous Public Education Matters episode fe...

Episode 15 Virginia Public Sector Collective Bargaining Developments Hosted by Mark G. Eskenazi and Toby Latham Former NLRB attorney Toby Latham joins host Mark Eskenazi for a deep dive into the developments in Virginia over the potential for public-sector collective bargaining. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the participants and should not be considered the views of Fox Rothschild LLP or its attorneys. This podcast is for informational purposes only, is not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Janaya Foster used to hate afternoons in her elementary school classroom in Columbus. Too often, something would happen during lunch and recess that would leave students distracted or distressed. But, bringing yoga and other mindfulness tools into her classroom - along with rewards like treats from her grant-funded smoothie machine - has made a big difference for Janaya's students and her own wellbeing. In this episode, she shares more about her experiences, the supports she's received to make these initiatives possible, and the messages she's sharing with other educators across Ohio and on a national stage.SEE FOR YOURSELF | Click here to watch a short video featuring photos of Janaya Fosters' students doing yoga in their school.GRANT SUPPORT | Janaya was able to get yoga mats for her classroom and other mindfulness resources through a Columbus Education Association mini-grant. She also was able to buy her class their smoothie machine with grant funding from Donors Choose. For more information about some of the other grants that are available through OEA, listen to our previous Public Education Matters episode with OEA Secretary-Treasurer Rob McFee: Your Dues Dollars at Work: What you need to know about OEA's Local Affiliate GrantsSUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guest:Janaya Foster, Columbus Education Association member Janaya Foster is a 2nd grade teachers at Berwick Elementary in Columbus City Schools, where she serves as a Columbus Education Association senior faculty representative for her building. She also serves as an Ohio's New Educators (ONE) Member Organizer and a member of the OEA Elections Committee. In addition to her work with educators around Ohio, Foster presented two wellness-focused sessions at the NEA Leadership Summit in Chicago in March, 2026.Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on March 18, 2026.

EP31: Collective Bargaining Under Pressure: Wages, Inflation, and the Fight for Fair but Sustainable Wages In this episode of Inside IR, Rohan Doyle and Natalie Gaspar explore the growing pressure on enterprise bargaining wage negotiations as we see unions pressing for wage increases that outpace the rising cost of living in the face of inflation and interest rate increases, at a time when employers are under immense pressure to reduce costs. Natalie and Rohan examine why productivity has become central to achieving sustainable wage outcomes, and discuss some of the other key developments driving up wage costs, including same job, same pay orders, and expanding enterprise agreement coverage. A timely and practical discussion for employers, HR and IR professionals navigating a highly charged bargaining environment.

Vouchers are 'the new kid on the block' for public education threats, but the executive director of the Network for Public Education says while everyone's eyes are on vouchers, harmful charter school legislation has continued to pass nationwide, taking those publicly-funded schools farther and farther from the promise of what they were supposed to be. NPE is shining a spotlight on the charter school issues with a three-part report called "Charter School Reckoning" and a new research center project to tell the real story about what has happened with charter schools in Ohio and across the country. NPE Executive Director Carol Burris shares some of the reports' findings and suggestions for how lawmakers can improve the problems with charter schools in our states.READ THE REPORTS | "Charter School Reckoning" is a three-part report from the Network for Public Education. Click here to read part one of the report, "Decline." Click here to read Part 2, "Disillusionment." Part 3, focusing on costs, will be published later in 2026. GET THE FACTS | Click here to visit the Network for Public Education's Charter School Accountability Center.GO TO THE NPE NATIONAL CONFERENCE | Click here for more information on the 2026 National Conference in Houston and to register. SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms, including YouTube. Click here for links for other platforms so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Carol Burris, Executive Director, Network for Public Education/Network for Public Education ActionCarol Burris, a retired public school teacher and principal, now serves as the Executive Director of the Network for Public Education, a national organization dedicated to supporting and improving public education. Dr. Burris, who has authored three books on educational equity, has received numerous awards for her leadership, including being named the 2013 New York State High School Principal of the Year. Carol Burris served as principal of South Side High School in the Rockville Centre School District in NY from 2000-2015. Carol received her doctorate from Teachers College, Columbia University, and her dissertation on equitable practices in mathematics instruction received the 2003 National Association of Secondary Schools' Principals Middle of the Year Award. Carol serves as a Fellow of the National Education Policy Center and is the co-director of its Schools of Opportunity program.  She authored three books on educational equity. Articles that she has authored or co-authored have appeared in Educational Leadership, The Kappan, the American Educational Research Journal, Theory into Practice, The School Administrator and EdWeek.Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on March 12, 2026.

Read more from VPM News:  Public college faculty left out of Virginia's collective bargaining expansion  Richmond housing authority's 'ComeHome' produces first tenant-to-homeowner    Other links:  How does snow accumulate after it's been so warm? (Cardinal News)  Virginia joins national push for refunds after US Supreme Court voids Trump tariffs (Virginia Mercury)  Memo: Avula says he's ‘assessing' how to comply with city code requiring publication of spending data (Richmond Times-Dispatch)  Harrisonburg teaching assistants seek pay increase (Daily News-Record)*  Rising costs squeeze Virginia food truck owners: 'I'm basically taking a loss' (WTVR)    Our award-winning work is made possible with your donations. Visit vpm.org/donate to support local journalism.   

Student loans are a fact of life for many educators who relied on that support to make their education career path possible, or who are now on Parent Plus loans to help their own children achieve their college and career dreams. But, so much has changed with the federal student loan programs over the last year, it can be really hard to keep track of what any of us need to be doing to stay on track with repayments. NEA Member Benefits Affiliate Relations Lead Guy Kendall-Freas joins us for this episode to get us up to speed.GET HELP NAVIGATING YOUR STUDENT LOAN DEBT | Click here to learn more about NEA Member Benefits' Savi Student Debt Navigator tool and other student loan resources  FIND OTHER SAVINGS | Click here for more information on other NEA Member Benefits discounts and resourcesREWIND AND LEARN MORE | Click here and here to hear Guy's interviews on previous Public Education Matters episodes about the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guest:Guy Kendall-Freas, NEA Member Benefits Affiliate Relations LeadGuy Kendall-Freas is the NEA Zone 3 Lead for NEA Member Benefits, where he has been employed since 1996.  A former special education teacher in Ohio, Guy was also a leader in his local, district and OEA.  He served the Ohio Department of Education in several capacities, including the Rules Revision Committee for Special Ed Service Delivery and as one of the first practicing teachers trained as Entry Year Teacher Assessors.  Working from his office in Mansfield, Ohio, he supports members and affiliates in the 13 states comprising NEA's Zone 3.Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on February 25, 2026.

3/18/2026 PODCAST Episodes #2333 GUESTS: Mark Mix, John McLaughlin + YOUR CALLS! at 1-888-480-JOHN (5646) and GETTR Live! @jfradioshow #GodzillaOfTruth #TruckingTheTrut  

Ohio Rep. Sean Patrick Brennan (D-Parma) knows if you're not at the table, you get the scraps. After a 30-year career in a public school classroom, he's now at the table in the General Assembly, serving as the Ranking Member on the House Education Committee. He joins us for this episode for a deeper dive into House Bill 523, a bill he has co-sponsored to allow paid student teaching and remove other barriers for Aspiring Educators trying to enter the education field. He also shares his thoughts on the importance of our union in this moment, as someone who recently made the choice to become a Lifetime member.WATCH | Rep. Brennan wrote a guest column for the April/May edition of Ohio Schools called "Why Our Union Matters More Than Ever." Click here to watch a short video of him sharing that message. LEARN MORE ABOUT HB 523 | Click here to read the full text of the bill and to track its progress in the Ohio General Assembly. Click here to read OEA President Jeff Wensing's testimony in support of House Bill 523 in the House Education Committee in February, 2026. TELL YOUR STORY | Help advocate for a more accessible path to becoming an educator by sharing your perspective about your own time as a student teacher - past or present. Click here to share your experience.  SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Ohio Rep. Sean Patrick Brennan, (D-House District 14)State Representative Sean Patrick Brennan has dedicated his life to public service. He firmly believes that his story informs his calling to public service and proves that the American Dream survives. After his father abandoned his family, his strong mother modeled the importance of family and the satisfaction of a hard day's work, making their trailer a home and utilizing public assistance only as needed. Sadly, his mother later suffered through an abusive relationship. As a result, Rep. Brennan was blessed when his loving grandmother took him in to help tend the family farm and focus on his studies.Rep. Brennan went on to attend the University of Dayton where he graduated summa cum laude earning a Bachelor's Degree in International Studies concentrating in Russian, Soviet, and East European Studies. While there, he fell in love with Deena Denk from Parma, where they currently reside and raised their two beautiful children. He has also completed graduate-level coursework in history, political science, economics, and pedagogy at several colleges and universities and has a Master's Degree in Secondary School Administration from Cleveland State University. Brennan's scholarly activities involve projects on the subjects of the U.S. Constitution, religious freedom in America, and various other American political and historical topics at George Washington's Mount Vernon, James Madison's Montpelier, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, the University of Oxford in England, George Washington University in Washington, D.C., the Bill of Rights Institute in Arlington, Virginia, and the Ashbrook Center at Ashland University.Rep. Brennan served as an award-winning public school teacher for three decades, as well as a Parma councilman for nearly two decades, including over a decade as the at-large elected President of Council and the Public Housing Board of Ohio's 7th largest city. He is active in civic, professional, and charitable organizations, which include founder and board member of the Andrew Boyko Scholarship Foundation, St. Charles Borromeo Parish lector and adult server, Friends of Parma Libraries life member, founder of the Parma Peanut Butter Drive benefitting All Faiths Pantry, founder and past adviser of the Parma Youth Commission, advisory board member of Big Creek Connects, member of West Creek Conservancy, Parma Historical Society, the City Club of Cleveland, German Central Foundation, National Education Association, Ohio Education Association, and Northeast Ohio Education Association.An avid runner and advocate of healthy living, Rep. Brennan has completed over 100 full marathons, as well as countless other smaller running events. His love of running led to his creation of the annual Parma Run-Walk for Pierogies, which has raised tens of thousands of dollars for local charities. Among other projects, his charitable work led to the creation of the script Parma sign which was subsequently donated to the City of Parma and adorns Anthony Zielinski Park and raising thousands of dollars to assist residents whose incomes were negatively impacted by the pandemic.Rep. Brennan was nominated Ohio Teacher of the Year, selected for the Parma Senior Veterans Appreciation Award, “Citizen of the Year” by the Friends of Parma Libraries, “Friend of PEA” by the Parma Education Association, “Conservationist of the Year” by the Cuyahoga Soil and Water Conservation District, “Parma Democrat of the Year” by the Parma Democratic Party, “Teacher of the Year” by the Cleveland American Middle Eastern Association (C.A.M.E.O.), and the “Good Partner Award” by Goodwill Industries.Rep. Brennan joined the Ohio House of Representatives in 2023 and is now serving his second term. He is proud of his perfect session attendance, 96% bipartisan voting record, being named the “Most Bipartisan Legislator,” sponsoring more bills than any other legislator in the Ohio General Assembly, and passing 5 bills in his first term. Most of all he is committed to providing excellent constituent services to the residents who contact his office. He cares deeply for the people of the great state of Ohio and works doggedly to improve the quality of life for all of those who reside in the Buckeye State. He is deeply honored to serve the residents of Ohio's 14th House District which includes, Parma, Parma Heights, and Cleveland Wards 12, 13, and 14, which encompass the Old Brooklyn, South Hills, Brooklyn Centre, and Clark-Fulton neighborhoods. Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about

The primary teacher's union is accusing the government of divide and conquer tactics in their stalled pay negotiations. The Public Service Commission has decided to extend a pay offer to about 10,000 teachers who are not bound by the NZEI collective agreement ahead of settling with unionised teachers. NZEI claims it is a deliberate and serious breach of good faith and would undermine teachers collective bargaining. It is now threatening legal action. NZEI's lead negotiator for the primary teachers collective, Liam Rutherford spoke to Lisa Owen.

David Grimes wears many hats. By day, he's a middle school science teacher in Westerville. He's also a leader in his local union and has spent the last two years as a community leader serving on Westerville's city council. In 2026, he added Westerville Mayor to that list. In this episode, he takes a look back at some of what he has accomplished in city government already, a look ahead at what he hopes to do as mayor, and a look around at his fellow educators who could be great in public office, including another Westerville teacher and WEA leader who joined Grimes in the city council chambers this year.TIME MACHINE | Click here to hear then-city council candidate David Grimes on the OEA podcast when he was first running for office in 2023.SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: David Grimes, Westerville Education Association SecretaryA 7th grade science teacher in Westerville City Schools, David Grimes also serves as Westerville Mayor, a position to which he was appointed in January, 2026. He has served as a Westerville City Council member since 2024. Grimes serves as Council Representative to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and the Uptown Westerville, Inc. Board. He is also actively involved with Sustainable Westerville, WeRISE Westerville, the Westerville Queer Collective, the Arts Council of Westerville, Westerville Garden Club, Friends of Alum Creek and Tributaries, the Westerville Historical Society, and the Westerville Education Association, for which he serves as Secretary. Grimes is also a former Ohio's New Educators Member Ambassador and former president of Otterbein Middle Level Association. Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on January 19, 2026.

Alex Rodriguez, former MLB superstar slugger and A-Rod Corp chairman and CEO, discusses sports investing in 2026, progress on a new collective bargaining agreement in the MLB, and the latest episode of ‘The Deal’ podcast. He speaks with Bloomberg’s Carol Massar and Tim Stenovec from the Bloomberg Invest conference in New York City.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a special audio-only version of Bronco Studios Live presented by Ford, host Jay Tust gets several viewpoints, for and against, collective bargaining in college sports. He visits with Boise State Director of Athletics Jeramiah Dickey, Athletes.org founder Jim Cavale, college sports writer Matt Brown (extrapointsmb.com), and Boise State law professor Sam Ehrlich.2:10 Jeramiah Dickey, Boise State Director of Athletics, and Jim Cavale, Founder of Athletes.org3:40: What is Athletes.org and what does Jim Cavale hope to achieve with it9:40: Jeramiah Dickey's viewpoint on collective bargaining and what organizations like Athletes.org provide to college athletics11:20: How does an organization like Athletes.org get changes made across different states and different state laws15:50: Why would anyone be for and against employment status in college sports20:30: An Athletic Director's perspective on student-athletes becoming employees 22:20: What is the next step in Athletic Director and University presidents getting moved towards a solution and overcome the current obstacles27:30: How would athletes benefit collective bargaining and why would they want collective bargaining31:00: Are guardrails necessary for college sports, from an Athletic Director's perspective34:20: What is needed for these efforts and what are the results of them in the next 5 years?37:30: An athletic director's perspective on what could happen in the next 5 years?40:25: Will this be led by athletes or schools?42:30: The potential movement and its impact on Olympic sports46:01: How important is it to have these discussions? Encouraged or discouraged on where things stand today?50:40: How to view the “chaotic” moments that happen in the day-to-day of college athletics?52:20: Matt Brown and his trip to Boise a couple years ago53:35: Why is fan engagement so important?55:15: Why did Matt Brown start Extra Points as a newsletter and choose to focus on “off the field” things in college sports?57:35: Thoughts on collective bargaining in college sports and its impact on college football60:00: How realistic is collective bargaining in college football63:10: Why would college athletes view collective bargaining as beneficial to them65:30: What is a realistic timeline for collective bargaining to take place and be completed67:30: How likely is it that laws get changed at the federal level to start the process of moving towards collective bargaining70:30: Does a split in college football facilitate collective bargaining72:30: Defining the standards of what it means to be at the potential split levels of college football75:00: If Matt Brown was in charge of college football, what is one thing he would institute? 77:20: What is one challenge and one opportunity for Boise State going forward?80:00: Sam Ehrlich, Boise State law professor and founder of College Sports Litigation Tracker website81:30: Why he created CollegeSportsLitigationTracker.com83:00: Why he picked sports law as a career path and passion project84:45: Sam Ehrlich's view of the benefits of collective bargaining in college sports87:00: What is preventing collective bargaining from happening in college sports90:30: How college sports has changed since situations like Maurice Clarett was trying to get into the NFL early to what is going on today, as well as the result of what collective bargaining does for leagues and players associations92:00: How collective bargaining would go over in the state of Idaho95:30: Is there a realistic path to laws changing to support collective bargaining in college sports98:00: What does the discussion look like around collective bargaining in college athletics over the next 18-24 months90:45: What happens to CollegeSportsLitigationTracker.com if collective bargaining is instituted in college sportsJim Cavalewww.athletes.orgMatt Brownwww.extrapointsmb.comSam Ehrlichhttps://www.collegesportslitigationtracker.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As Ohio continues to spend more than $1 billion each year of public taxpayer money on unaccountable private school voucher schemes, more than 325 Ohio school districts are standing together in the Vouchers Hurt Ohio lawsuit to force the state to stop cutting those checks. In June 2025, a Franklin County Common Pleas Court judge sided with the coalition on three counts, declaring vouchers unconstitutional in the state. But, the case now has to continue moving through the appeals process before there can be injunctive relief. Chardon Education Association member Dan Heintz is on the Vouchers Hurt Ohio steering committee, and in this episode, he walks us through the legal arguments that are being made, the next steps, and what educators across the state should be saying to their district leaders about joining the lawsuit.A LOOK AT THE TIMELINE:January, 2022 - The Vouchers Hurt Ohio coalition files the lawsuit in the Franklin County Common Pleas court challenging the constitutionality of the state's private school voucher program. Click here to read the press release, which includes a link to a copy of the complaint.June, 2025 - Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Judge Jaiza Page rules Ohio's voucher scheme unconstitutional on three of five counts. Click here to read OEA's statement on the ruling. January, 2026 - Both sides file reply briefs in the 10th District Court of Appeals as the state's appeal of Judge Page's ruling moves forward through the courts. Click here to check out some of the news coverage about the filing. Click here to read the Vouchers Hurt Ohio reply brief for yourself. Summer, 2026 - Oral arguments are expected in the 10th District Court of Appeals.???? - The 10th District Court of Appeals will issue its ruling and the case will likely move forward to the Ohio Supreme Court.WHAT THEY'RE SAYING IN COURT | Click here to read more on the five counts at the center of the Vouchers Hurt Ohio lawsuit.JOIN THE LAWSUIT | Click here for a list of school districts currently participating in the lawsuit. Click here and here for info and resources to advocate for your school district to join the lawsuit, too. SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Dan Heintz, Chardon Education Association memberDan Heintz is a public school grad, dad, teacher and advocate. He teaches at Chardon High School, serves on the Board of Education for the Cleveland Heights - University Heights school district, and is a member of the Steering Committee for the Vouchers Hurt Ohio lawsuit.  Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on January 13, 2026.

Nearly two years after its workers voted to establish one of the first unions at an auto factory in the South, employees at the Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, have approved their first contract.The United Auto Workers union announced Thursday that 96% of workers at the Chattanooga plant voted in favor of the deal, which was hashed out over months of often slow-moving talks between the union and the German automaker. It reportedly includes immediate bonuses of more than $6,500, a 20% wage increase over the life of the four-year contract, job security benefits, and cuts of at least 20% in health care premiums.#Volkswagen, #VWChattanooga, #UAW, #UnionContract, #AutoWorkers, #ManufacturingNews, #LaborNews, #UnionVictory, #CollectiveBargaining, #AutoIndustry, #USManufacturing, #Chattanooga, #TennesseeJobs, #WageIncrease, #JobSecurity, #SouthernManufacturing, #WorkforceNews, #ElectricVehicles, #ID4, #AtlasSUV, #IndustrialNews, #Unionization

The hundreds of Ohio Education Association locals across the state come in all sizes, ranging from 4,000+ members in big Locals like the Columbus Education Association to just eight members in the Bay Individual/Small Group Instruction Teachers Association (BISGITA), which represents 8 of the 9 hourly certified educators working as intervention specialists and reading specialists in Bay Village City Schools. As BISGITA President Jackie Hartsel tells us in this episode, the Local may be small, but their union gives them a meaningful voice in the decisions that affect student learning conditions and resources, so BISGITA members can have a big impact on their students' success. SHARE YOUR PERSPECTIVE | If you have an education topic you're passionate about, we want to hear from you on the podcast! Please email us at educationmatters@ohea.org SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Jackie Hartsel, BISGITA PresidentJackie Hartsel has been an educator for 25 years, holding an elementary teaching license (grades 1–8, all subjects) with a K–12 reading endorsement, as well as a K–12 Mild/Moderate Special Education–Intervention Specialist license. She earned her bachelor's degree from Ashland University and her master's degree from Cleveland State University.Throughout her career, she has worked in both public and charter school settings in a variety of roles and employment capacities. She has served as a full-time salaried employee and as a part-time hourly employee, gaining experience as a classroom teacher, reading tutor, and a curriculum and special education supervisor. Currently, she works as a part-time hourly intervention specialist in Bay Village.Hartsel genuinely enjoys working with students, and says, like most educators, the most rewarding part of her work is watching students learn, grow, and gain confidence. She was especially drawn to special education because two of her own children had IEPs during their school years. Parenting children with unique learning challenges has had a profound impact on her teaching practice, allowing her to better empathize with both students and their families and to advocate effectively for their needs.In her personal life, Hartsel is the parent of three grown children and the proud grandparent of nine grandchildren. When she is not spending time with her family, she enjoys tending to flowers and plants, both indoors and outdoors. She also likes tackling home improvement projects, from repairing a kitchen sink to painting and refinishing furniture. One of her favorite traditions is creating a custom Volkswagen-themed dresser for each grandchild when they turn five, complete with working tap headlights in their choice of color. Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on January 7, 2026.

The Trump administration is telling agencies to proceed with terminating their collective bargaining agreements if they haven't already a new advisory from the Office of Personnel Management follows two executive orders last year that directed most agencies to cancel their union contracts. That's despite ongoing litigation against the president's orders here with the latest is Federal News Network's Drew Friedman.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Airline pilots love to debate (and sometimes complain about) unions, but do pilot unions actually make pilots “richer”? In this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast, we break down what unions really change, what they don't, and why the answer depends on how you define “richer.”Related Podcast Episodes: Ep 259. What Pilots (& Others) Should Consider 5 Years Before Mandatory RetirementEp 273. How Early Retirement Affects Pilot BenefitsEp 322. How Airline Pilots Can Make the Most of Their Profit-Sharing BonusRelated Financial Education Videos:When Should Pilots File for Social Security?What Would a Change in FAA Retirement Age Mean for Pilots?Learn More:- About Wiser Wealth Management- Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial freedom.- Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on building a financial legacy, the importance of a financial advisor for business owners, post-divorce financial planning, and more! Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter- A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

She was the Ridgewood High School band director. He was a football coach for the Riverview High School team. She dropped her papers in the end zone. He helped pick them up. She eventually got his friend - the band director for Riverview - to have him finally call her to ask for a date. That was beginning of Bill and Cheryl Graham's love story; one that has endured through their combined 112-year teaching careers and beyond. Just in time for Valentine's Day, we hear from Bill and Cheryl about what kept them going through more than five decades in the classroom, how personal tragedy actually deepened their commitment to education, and why they continue to serve students now in their retirement. LESSONS FROM A LIFETIME OF LEARNING | Click here to read the feature about Bill and Cheryl Graham in the October/November 2025 edition of Ohio Schools.SHARE YOUR PERSPECTIVE | If you have an education topic you're passionate about, or you know about educators in your Local who are doing amazing things, we want to hear from you on the podcast! Please email us at educationmatters@ohea.org SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guests: Bill and Cheryl Graham, OEA-Retired membersConnect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded in early September, 2025.

Nearly 100 years after Cesar Chavez was born, his mission and message are as important now as ever. That's why when Orange High School Spanish teacher Emily Machias had the opportunity to bring Cesar Chavez's grandson to Orange City Schools during their Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations in 2025, she jumped at the chance to have her students hear from Andres Chavez about the labor leader and civil rights activist's enduring legacy. In this episode, Macias shares her passion for showing students the wider world around them, whether that means bringing them new perspectives, like those of Andres Chavez as he carries on his grandfather's work, or bringing them to new parts of the world, including a recent trip to Peru that included eye-opening visits to homes and a school in a remote part of that country.IN THE NEWS| Check out some of the local news coverage of Andres Chavez' visit to Pepper Pike:Andres Chavez tells crowd at Orange High School how he works to keep grandfather's legacy alive - cleveland.com Northeast Ohio events will honor Cesar Chavez's labor legacy in the state and beyond | Ideastream Public MediaGrandson of civil rights activist Cesar Chavez to speak Oct. 16 at Orange High School - cleveland.comLEARN MORE | For more information about the Cesar Chavez Foundation and its ongoing work, click here.SHARE YOUR PERSPECTIVE | If you have an education topic you're passionate about or know about great work educators are doing in your Local, we want to hear from you on the podcast! Please email us at educationmatters@ohea.orgSUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guests: Emily Macias, Orange Teachers Association memberEmily Macias is a veteran Spanish educator at Orange High School in Pepper Pike, Ohio, where she has taught for 23 years. In addition to her work in the classroom, she serves as the high school's ROX (Ruling Our Experiences) advisor, supporting the empowerment and leadership development of young women.Emily is also an active member of the Orange Teachers Association, serving as a building representative, and contributes to national assessment efforts through her work with the College Board as an AP Spanish exam reader.Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on December 4, 2025.

Ohio's public schools are safe, welcoming learning environments for students of all backgrounds and abilities. But, only five decades ago, there was no guarantee that they could attend school or receive support to help them reach their full potential. That changed in late-1975 when the law that would become the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) became federal law. In this episode, we take a look at what has changed for students with disabilities over the last 50 years with educators who have dedicated their careers to serving that population of students - including one who was working in Ohio schools before IDEA codified students' rights to a free and appropriate education in the U.S.JOIN OASNP | The Ohio Association of Special Needs Professionals is a department within OEA that supports and advocates for OEA members who work with individuals with special needs. All OEA members are invited to join. Click here to learn more about the benefits of joining OASNP and for a link to add OASNP to your OEA membership.All OEA members are also invited to attend the next OASNP annual conference:April 24-25, 2026Mohican State Park Lodge & ResortClick here to registerLEARN MORE | Click here to read the Ohio Schools magazine story on IDEA's 50th anniversary (Page 14). And, read this piece for more information from NEA: IDEA is 50 Years Old — And at Risk | NEASHARE YOUR THOUGHTS | If you'd like to share your feedback on the Public Education Matters podcast, including your ideas for what you'd like to hear about - or talk about - on future episodes, please email educationmatters@ohea.org. SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guests: Jené Wilson, OASNP Past Chair and Business Manager Jené Wilson was a Teacher/Behavior Specialist with the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities for 36 years, serving as president, vice president, Corresponding Secretary, and Recording Secretary for her local, the Association of Cuyahoga County Employees for Special Students (ACCESS), as well as holding numerous roles within OEA, NEOEA, and NEA during that time. Since retiring from the Board of DD, she has remained active in all levels of Association work. Wilson currently serves as NEOEA-R Representative to the OEA-R Advisory Council, as a delegate at the NEOEA, OEA, and NEA represenative assemblies, and on the NEOEA Board of Directors, among her other roles. Additionally, she continues to serve as the Business Manager for the Ohio Association of Special Needs Professionals (OASNP), after serving as OASNP chairperson for five years and as OASNP vice-chairperson for 24 years before that. Since retiring in 2009, she taught at Notre Dame College for nine years and is currently supervising student teachers at Cleveland State. Nikki Nadasky, OASNP ChairNikki Nadasky has been a Service and Support Administrator for the Portage County Board of Developmental Disabilities for 14 years, as well as Portage County Education Association for Developmental Disabilities union president and acting Chair of OASNP. Prior to becoming chair, Nadasky was vice chair and also was the group's secretary. She has worked for 23 years in total serving those with developmental disabilities and has met many wonderful people, for whom she has so much respect.  They have shown Nadasky to live life with perseverance.Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on November 6, 2025.

Educators often get a front row seat to see their students realizing their potential. Those lightbulb moments when a new concept clicks are what a lot of educators say keep them going. Intervention Specialist Elena North and Occupational Therapist Maddy Schnabel recently got a front row seat to see their student, Cy, write his name for the first time - something that was possible because of the custom assistive device they designed and 3-D printed to enable him to use crayons, markers, and pens, just like his peers. In this episode, Maddy and Elena share their ongoing journey to overcome challenges to help unlock Cy's potential. And they share their dreams for Cy's future: Whatever he dreams for himself.SEE CY IN ACTION | Watch this short social media video to see Cy using his new assistive device for yourself.EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES | Educators who are considering whether 3-D printed devices can help their students are welcome to pick Maddy and Elena's brains about what they've learned so far in the design and printing process. Please email communications@anthonywayneschools.org to get in touch with them.SHARE YOUR PERSPECTIVE | If you have an education topic you're passionate about or know about great work educators are doing in your Local, we want to hear from you on the podcast! Please email us at educationmatters@ohea.orgSUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guests: Elena North, Intervention Specialist, Anthony Wayne Education Association memberElena North is an Intervention Specialist at Monclova Primary School with a background in Special Education and certifications in Mild–Moderate and Moderate–Intensive disabilities, serving students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. Now in her third year of teaching, Elena is committed to providing student centered-instruction that meets learners where they are and supports their growth across academic, social, and daily living skills. Guided by the belief that every child deserves an equitable education, Elena emphasizes adapting instruction to match how students learn best. She prioritizes maintaining a structured, predictable learning environment where students can expect clear expectations and consistency–an approach that reduces anxiety, builds trust, and supports meaningful communication and positive behavior. A recent highlight of Elena's work is her role in co-leading the Reaching for Independence while Striving for Excellence (R.I.S.E.) program alongside colleague Lauren Whalen. The weekly program provides students with authentic, real-world opportunities to practice social, academic, and functional life skills. Through her work, Elena strives to help students build confidence, independence, and essential skills needed to reach their fullest potential beyond the classroom.Maddy Schnabel, OTD, OTR/L, Teachers Association of Lucas County Schools memberMadeline Schnabel is a school-based occupational therapist with a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from the University of Toledo with a graduate certificate in Teaming in Early Childhood. With three and half years of experience, she is dedicated to helping students participate in meaningful school activities and develop skills that support their independence now and into the future. Employed by the Educational Service Center of Northwest Ohio and serving the Anthony Wayne Local Schools district, Maddy also serves as an adjunct faculty member in The University of Toledo's OTD program. Maddy builds strong relationships with students, helping them feel supported and confident when facing new or challenging tasks. A recent highlight of her work includes creating a 3-D printed device to enhance student participation in the classroom.Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on November 20, 2025.

In an education landscape that forces educators to prioritize getting kids to pass standardized tests, students who are already performing above grade level can easily be overlooked. But, Warrensville Education Association member Briana McDonald says we have to do better for those gifted students. In this episode, she shares her perspective about the need for high-quality gifted education programs in our schools, the challenges of serving gifted-identified learners, and the opportunities for all educators to grow as professionals to meet gifted students' needs.SHARE YOUR PERSPECTIVE | If you, like Briana, have an education topic you're passionate about, we want to hear from you on the podcast! Please email us at educationmatters@ohea.orgMID-CAREER EDUCATORS UNITE | Many educators in the second decade of their career especially report a need for more effective professional development opportunities. Mid-career educators are coming together now within the Ohio's New Educators (ONE) department to ensure all Ohio educators in the second decade of the career have the support they need to thrive. Check out our episode on the mid-career pilot program from earlier this season.  SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Briana McDonald, Warrensville Education Association memberNow in her 13th year in education, Briana McDonald has been a teacher, administrator and gifted intervention specialist during her career. She currently works for Warrensville Heights City School District as an elementary teacher. Her two Bachelor's degrees in Middle School Education and Accounting are from the University of Mount Union (Alliance, OH). Her two Master's degrees in Educational Administration and Curriculum and Instruction with Gifted and Talented Learners are from Cleveland State University. She is a twin mom to 5 year old twin boys, Zeke and Zion, and married to her husband, Jeff. Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on September 22, 2025.

Danny White joins HEA to talk alignment with Chancellor Plowman, including how they are both builders and change agents. The conversation first talks about his doctorate degree in higher education as the dissertation design is similar to mine. We then jump back into the concept of collective bargaining in college athletics. White explains his philosophy of building a strong administrative team and why launching former deputies into AD jobs is a good thing despite needing to constantly replenish. I ask Danny about the pro sports model we're seeing in college athletics and how current athletic administrators can keep moving forward despite the hype of outsiders coming for AD jobs. HEA is presented by PILYTIX, an AI tech company for higher education institutions and sports organizations. Increased Donations. Fast, Effective Targeting. Improved Performance. HEA has partnered with AD Vantage for AD Insights and Coaching Hires. AD Vantage empowers athletic directors with comprehensive staff data, performance analytics, and AI-powered candidate insights to make smarter hiring, compensation, and retention decisions in an era where every dollar counts.0:00 Introduction2:10 Dr. White's Doctorate Dissertation5:25 Change Agents7:55 Becoming a Builder: Born or Developed?13:35 Collective Bargaining in College Athletics17:25 Danny's CBA Plan & Athletes.Org Plan21:20 Launching Tennessee Deputies into AD Jobs & Replenishing Roles Within31:22 Advice to Administrators Concerned about Outside Industry People Coming for AD Positions

 In Ohio, roughly one in four students is chronically absent—missing 10 percent or more of the school year. Behind those numbers are complex challenges that go beyond the classroom, and the solutions are often found outside the classroom, too. In this episode, Communities In Schools of Ohio CEO Adero Robinson discusses how his non-profit organization works in partnership with dozens of public schools to address the root causes of absenteeism and many other issues, building relationships with students and families and creating lasting supports that help more young people succeed.  LEARN MORE | For more information about Communities in Schools of Ohio or to support the non-profit's work, visit ciskids.org Click here to see which schools CIS of Ohio is partnering with this school yearClick here to see the results from the organization's work in Ohio schools last yearClick here to learn more about the Community in Schools modelConnect with Adero Robinson directly to explore opportunities to partner and to see more CIS data by emailing arobinson@ciskids.org SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS | If you'd like to share your feedback on the Public Education Matters podcast, including your ideas for what you'd like to hear about - or talk about - on future episodes, please email educationmatters@ohea.org. SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Adero Robinson, Communities in Schools of Ohio Executive Director & CEOAdero Robinson is the Executive Director and CEO of Communities In Schools of Ohio (CIS), part of the national Communities In Schools network dedicated to surrounding students with a community of support so they can thrive in school and beyond. With nearly 30 years of nonprofit leadership experience, he leads efforts to connect students with caring adults, community resources, and evidence-based supports designed to overcome barriers to success. Under his leadership, Communities In Schools of Ohio currently serves 46 schools across six cities, providing whole-school and individualized services such as academic assistance, behavioral interventions, family engagement, enrichment, and attendance support. For the 2024–2025 academic year, in 52 schools across the state, CIS of Ohio supported more than 24,000 students and 12,700 families. For the 2,800 students receiving intensive, one-on-one support—91% of seniors graduated, and the majority made measurable gains in attendance, behavior, and academics.Robinson began his career as an AmeriCorps member with City Year Columbus, serving as a tutor and mentor in Columbus City Schools, and later held leadership positions with City Year Columbus as Chief of Staff and Executive Director. His career also includes roles with the Columbus Compact Corporation, United Way of Central Ohio, the Columbus Urban League, and Battelle for Kids, where he advanced education, community development, and youth success initiatives.He has received several community awards, including the City Year Comcast Leadership Award, and has completed leadership programs with the African American Leadership Academy, the Ray Miller Institute for Change and Leadership, Bank of America Emerging Leaders, Stanford University's Designing Social Systems program, and City Year LEAD. Robinson holds a BA degree from Denison University and an MBA from the Keller Graduate School of Management. He is married to Tracy Robinson and is the father of four children and three stepchildren. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, Netflix, music, coaching youth basketball, and practicing karate, holding a second-degree black belt through the United Fighting Arts Federation.Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on November 3, 2025.

Another conversation with Dr. Brian Gantwerker. Find the video of this conversation at https://youtu.be/mWy9CVPwUoo