Podcast appearances and mentions of melissa cropper

Marcus C. Evans Jr., State Representative for Illinois' 33rd district and Chairman of the Labor Committee, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss public transit funding in Illinois, the need for enhanced safety measures and the power of collective action in demanding better public services. Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the battle for fair school funding, attacks on collective bargaining rights for teachers and the potential impact of Medicaid cuts on children.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers and Secretary-Treasurer of the Ohio AFL-CIO, joined America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the dismantling of the fair school funding formula, cuts to library funding and a push to eliminate elected positions on the State Board of Education. Alyssa Goodstein, Communications Director for the Illinois AFL-CIO, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss her background in labor history, the impact of storytelling in union organizing and an upcoming digital media workshop aimed at empowering labor communicators.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the state's school funding proposal, efforts to protect federal education funding and recent union victories in higher education. Frank Mathews, Administrative Director for District 4 of the Communication Workers of America (CWA), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and spoke about the Wisconsin Supreme Court race, the implications of broadband infrastructure decisions and the influence of major financial players like Elon Musk in these arenas.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss pressing issues that could impact the state's education system including Ohio Senate Bill 1, school funding and possible federal education cuts. Michael Podhorzer, Chair of the Defend Democracy Project, joined America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the impact of billionaire influence on elections, the importance of unions in defending democracy and the need for increased public awareness and action.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the ongoing battle for fair school funding in Ohio and recent federal policy changes impacting educators. Melissa Wells, Special Assistant to the President of the North America's Building Trades Unions (NABTU), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to provide perspective on how enhancing diversity in union construction careers can serve as a pathway to the middle class.

Rob Handy, a special education teacher at Lanphier High School in Springfield, Ill., joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss a special education program utilizing the North American Building Trades Unions' MC3 program. Handy also shared his journey from aspiring professional baseball player to a special education educator demonstrating the power of vocational training for students with disabilities. Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the issues facing Ohio's education system. Cropper also discussed some controversial bills being pushed through during the Ohio Legislature's lame-duck session and their potential impact on schools and communities.

Pete Ielmini, Executive Director of the Mechanical Insulators Labor Management Cooperative Trust (LMCT), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss two critical initiatives - promoting energy efficiency through the Federal Mechanical Insulation Act and addressing mental health awareness within the construction industry. On today's episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT), discussed the potential challenges facing educators with the incoming presidential administration and the importance of innovative educational programs.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to talk about the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Votes Bus Tour. She also talked about a contract fight between the Lordstown Teachers Association and their school district, plus the potential impact of Ohio's capital budget funds going to private schools. Tim Drea, Illinois AFL-CIO President, appeared on the America's Work Force Union Podcast and talked about the 125th anniversary of the founding of the Union Miners Cemetery and the 2022 enshrinement of collective bargaining and organizing language into the Illinois State Constitution.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss their literacy instruction program for Ohio parents. She also discussed her visit to the Oyler School and the importance of educating voters. Marquez Brown, Cleveland Regional Director for the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Ohio Council 8, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss his approach to voter education and the impact that supporting pro-labor candidates could have on the labor movement's future.

Jonathan Rosenblum, a labor organizer, and Ebony Echevarria, an Amazon Delivery Driver, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss ongoing negotiations with Amazon and what the workers are trying to earn through a first contract. Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers and Vice President of the American Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast from the Democratic National Convention. She discussed two new library organizing campaigns and a potential teacher's strike in Lordstown, Ohio.

AFT President Randi Weingarten is joined by Jeff Freitas, president of the California Federation of Teachers, and Melissa Cropper, president of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, to discuss the union's ongoing efforts to ensure that our nation's educators stay central and engaged during the rise of artificial intelligence technology in our classrooms and in our lives.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT) and a Vice President of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the upcoming AFT National Convention and why several Locals from Ohio are going to be well-represented. She also discussed some of the common-sense guidelines from the AFT for implementing AI in the classroom. Michael Shields, Economist from Policy Matters Ohio, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss a failed signature-gathering campaign to raise Ohio's minimum wage to $15 per hour. He explained why minimum wage workers in Ohio deserve a pay raise.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT-AFT), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to provide an end-of-the-2023-2024 school year recap. Cropper discussed an OFT survey that focused on the factors causing the state's teacher shortage. She also provided an update on recent organizing and contract wins for union members. June is World Infertility Awareness Month, and in honor of that, Isha Vij, Vice President of Employer Growth at Maven Clinic, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed how the organization is helping union members address fertility issues.

This week is Teacher Appreciation Week, and Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to talk about what can be done to show appreciation for teachers. Cropper also spoke about the funding of private school vouchers in Ohio and the FTC's final rule on non-compete clauses. Jeff Worthington, President of the Utah AFL-CIO, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to talk about Utah's H.B. 285, the efforts by the state's unions to defeat the bill and organizing in the state.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the recent first contract ratification at Equitas Health in Ohio. Cropper also spoke about an ongoing organizing campaign that is beginning its union election process, and a research group focusing on improving Teacher's workplace stress. James Cahill, Vice President of the Labor and Trust Department for Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Taft-Hartley Trust Funds and how unions use the trusts to prevent shifting rising healthcare costs onto members.

President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT), Melissa Cropper, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the first contract negotiations at Equitas Health Centers in Ohio. Cropper also discussed how two Ohio groups used awards from the American Federation of Teachers' 2023 back-to-school innovation grants. Maximillian Alvarez, Editor-in-Chief of The Real News Network and Chris Albright, an East Palestine, Ohio resident, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss an upcoming event in East Palestine that hopes to urge President Joe Biden to utilize the Stafford Act to help residents of the region following 2023's Norfolk Southern derailment.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to talk about organizing campaigns in 2024. Cropper also talked about the organization's biennial convention and the success of Literacy Across Ohio Day. Director Carl Kriss joined America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss his upcoming documentary, Relighting the Flame, which focuses on the fall and comeback of the steel industry in Northeast Ohio. Kriss talked about the inspiration behind the film and some of the worker stories that stuck with him.

President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, Melissa Cropper, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to talk about a lack of awareness from Ohio politicians, continuing their momentum from 2023 and organizing librarians across America. U.S. Representative Ro Khanna of the 17th District in California, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to talk about distractions on Capitol Hill. He also spoke about his concerns for union jobs if the US Steel sale is finalized and why it's important for auto plants in the South to remain neutral during organizing campaigns.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to talk about the organizing wins at CCAD and the Pickerington Public Library. Cropper also talked about OFT's efforts to organize other libraries in the state and the difficulty of winning a first contract in the private sector. A visiting scholar at the Kalmanovitz Initiative for Labor and the Working Poor at Georgetown University, John Russo, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss contributing factors to the banner year for labor. He also discussed the impact of United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain and what the record contracts earned in 2023 could do for future negotiations.

President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, Melissa Cropper, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to talk about Columbus' designation as a workforce hub. Cropper also discussed the OFT's ongoing battles with the Freedom Foundation and her concern for groups seeking to undermine the educational system in America. Special Assistant to the President of North America's Building Trades Unions, Melissa Wells, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss her work with the trades, the growth she's seen since joining with NABTU and the upcoming Tradeswomen Build Nations Conference.

President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, Melissa Cropper, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to talk about updates in the decision-making process for the state's educational system and the increased discussions around banned book lists during Banned Book Week. In honor of National Farmers Day, the America's Work Force Union Podcast checked in with the President and Founder of the Farm Labor Organizing Committee, Baldemar Velasquez. Velasquez talked about his life growing up in a migrant family, the work FLOC does for farm workers and the issues with organizing in the agricultural industry.

Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and talked about the AFT Organizing Committee meeting. She also spoke about successful organizing campaigns in Ohio over the past two years and about grants received by several Locals in the state. Continuing our efforts to raise awareness during National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month,  the General President of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, Jimmy Williams Jr., joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss their Employee Awareness Program (EAP), the Helping Hands Program.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed the big win for labor against Ohio State Issue 1. Cropper also spoke about organizing libraries and school board elections.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and talked about Ohio's August Special Election. She also spoke about a rally in Cincinnati with John Legend and Ohio's student voucher program. Chief Correspondent for Our Schools, Jeff Bryant, appeared on the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed his recent article, “Right-Wing Indoctrination by Charter Schools at the Taxpayers' Expense.” Bryant explained the work performed by Our Schools and his concern about the separation of Church and State.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to talk about state budget changes proposed by the Ohio Senate. Cropper also discussed workforce development educational program in New Lexington and a book festival in Columbus. Organizer and dancer for Star Garden, Reagan, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to talk about the 15-month journey to receiving recognition to unionize with the Actors Equity Association. Reagan also discussed the issues that led to the dancers' fight to unionize and shared some of the reactions to their efforts.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed the recent passage of Senate Joint Resolution 2 in Ohio. She also addressed positive movement for the Fair School Funding Plan, changes made to the voucher program and organization efforts at the KIPP School in Columbus. Civil Service Employees Association Unit 9200 President Hattie Adams appeared on the America's Work Force Union Podcast and spoke about a new five-year Collective Bargaining Agreement recently ratified by members. She explained the difference between this contract and previous contracts, plus the difficulties Unit 9200 faced during the pandemic.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed legislation that the OFT opposes. She also gave updates on multiple organizing campaigns throughout the state.   Donnie Colston, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Utility Department Director, appeared on the America's Work Force Union Podcast and explained why the IBEW has petitioned Congress to move the date of Lineman Appreciation Day. He also detailed the need for more linemen and the safety hazards they face on the job.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed two bills introduced to the Ohio State House and how they could possibly harm Ohioans. She also gave an update on two organizing campaigns.    Jon Schleuss, President of the News Guild CWA, appeared on the America's Work Force Union Podcast and spoke about a recent assault that took place in the midst of a six-month strike at the Pittsbrugh Post-Gazette. He also explained a decision by the Federal Communications Commission to have a judge review a hedge fund's proposal to take ownership of more than 60 TV stations across America.

President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, Melissa Cropper, joined America's Work Force Union Podcast to share updates about legislature impacting teachers in Ohio. Cropper discussed a proposed rule by the Federal Trade Commission to ban non-compete clauses with workers. Cropper shared how some teachers, mostly those in the Charter school system, have been impacted by non-compete clauses. She then discussed the issues the state faces with the Fair School Funding Plan and expanded charter school vouchers being implemented. Cropper also warned that the democratic process could be impacted by passing Ohio's Senate Bill 1.   Stephen Rumburg, Business Manager and President of International Union of Operating Engineers Local 465, joined America's Work Force Union Podcast. Rumburg discussed the dynamics of managing an area covering North and South Carolina. He shared the difficulties he's faced trying to organize in two of the least union friendly states and the successes they've had in growing membership recently. The push for renewable energy has Local 465 working with the North and South Carolina Building and Construction Trades Councils to unionize much of that work.

Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper appeared on the AWF Union Podcast and spoke about Senate Bill 1, which would transfer curriculum decisions away from the State Education Board and give it to the governor. She also talked about House Bill 458, which requires Ohio voters to show official photo identification before they vote in-person.     Lou Antonellis, Business Manager and Financial Secretary of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 103, joined the AWF Union Podcast and discussed how the Local's JATC recently graduated its most diverse apprenticeship class in its history. He also spoke about their Construction Wireman pre-apprenticeship program.  

Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT) President Melissa Cropper joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed an organizing campaign of teachers at KIPP Columbus and the anti-union tactics used by the administration. She also talked about several bills that failed in the lame-duck session in the Ohio Legislature.   Heat and Frost Insulators Local 8 Business Manager Terry Burke appeared on the AWF Union Podcast and spoke about the Federal Mechanical Insulation Act (FMIA), which was introduced into the U.S. House earlier this month. 

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the AWF Union Podcast to discuss the outcome of midterm elections for the Ohio State Board of Education, as well as the outcomes of other political races around the state decided on the Nov. 8 General Election.    Ironworkers Local 33 Business Agent, Apprenticeship Coordinator and Recording Secretary Stephen Tavernia appeared on the AWF Union Podcast during National Apprenticeship Week and explained his personal journey into the trades and why a registered apprenticeship program is a great fit for anyone looking for a rewarding career.

Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT) President Melissa Cropper joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed a bill in the Ohio Senate that, if passed, would allow veterans to become public school teachers without a teaching degree. She also talked about several races on Ohio's upcoming General Election ballot.    Plumbers Local 55 Business Representative John Hodge appeared on the AWF Work Force Union Podcast and discussed the busy workload in the Greater Cleveland area and the need to grow the Local's apprenticeship program to help meet the demand. He also shared his own journey on why he decided to join the trades.

Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT) President Melissa Cropper joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed a resolution under consideration by the Ohio State Board of Education that would encourage Ohio school districts to defy a proposal by the U.S. Department of Education to enhance Title IX protections for gay and transgender kids.   Sheet Metal Air Rail Transportation (SMART) Local 110 Business Manager/Financial Secretary-Treasurer Benjamin “Mark” Adams appeared on the AWF Union Podcast and discussed how Ford's $5.8 billion electric battery campus in Kentucky will impact the Local's membership.  

Callie and Chuck talk to Ohio Federation of Teachers president Melissa Cropper about the harmful laws going into effect that target teachers in Ohio and across the country. ALSO, Callie and Chuck give the top 7 cringiest and quackiest things Dr. Oz has said or done, Chuck wages war against terrible minor league baseball names, and the two discuss JD Vance's sham non-profit and its connections to big pharma. -----------------------------------------------HELP SUPPORT APPODLACHIA!Join our Patreon, for as little as $1/month, and access live events, weekly exclusives, bonus series, and more http://www.patreon.com/appodlachia-----------------------------------------------Timestamps01:39 - We need a cryptid baseball team07:29 - Top 7 Cringiest/Quackiest things Dr. Oz has said32:50 - Announcements (Patreon Limericks!)36:56 -  Interview with Ohio AFT President Melissa Cropper01:01:35 - Under-the-Radar in Appalachia:  JD Vance's sham non-profit &  Purdue Pharma-----------------------------------------------Check out our fantastic sponsors!CBD and THC gummies & more: (use code "APPODLACHIA" for 25% off) http://www.cornbreadhemp.com/Our website is great, and it's because Starry Eyes Media built it.  Yours can be too! https://www.starryeyes.media/-----------------------------------------------Transition Music: "Leave it to Me" by Corduroy Brownhttps://corduroy-brown.com/-----------------------------------------------Follow us!-Instagram: http://instagram.com/appodlachia-Twitter: http://twitter.com/appodlachia-Facebook: http://facebook.com/appodlachia-TikTok:  http://tiktok.com/appodlachia-Discord: https://discord.gg/czgUeWzvhT-----------------------------------------------None of the views expressed on this show represent the views of either Chuck or Callie's employersWomen in Tech PodcastInspiring women in tech share their stories on how they got to where they are today.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify The Quarterback DadCastI'm Casey Jacox….the host of the Quarterback Dadcast. I want to take a minute to tell...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT) President Melissa Cropper joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed an American Federation of Teachers report about what needs to be done to alleviate the nationwide teacher shortage. She also talked about a Baldwin Wallace University survey that found overwhelming public support for public schools and teachers.   United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 655 President David Cook appeared on the AWF Union Podcast and spoke about the impact of automation on grocery store workers and the displacement of the working class. He highlighted a recently signed Collective Bargaining Agreement for Schnucks union workers.

Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT) President Melissa Cropper joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed how leaders at the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Convention collaborated to brainstorm solutions to the nation's teacher shortage. She also spoke about the AFT's goal of growing community schools and encouraging more students to go into the trades.    Laborers' International Union of North America (LiUNA) Local 758 Business Manager Chuck Brooky appeared on the AWF Union Podcast and spoke about the union's objection to out-of-state non-union workers being hired to decommission an Ohio power plant and the economic impact on the area. 

By working people. For working people. Welcome to The Rick Smith Show.Tune in every weeknight from 9-11pm EST as we break down the news of the day and what that news means for working families across the country.Call-in at 1-866-416-RICK (7425) to join the show.Did you miss part of the #RickShow on your local radio station? Want to listen at work? Download the podcast at: https://www.thericksmithshow.com.The Rick Smith Show also streams live every weeknight from 9p-11p EST on YouTube & Twitch, and you can also find us on Free Speech TV. Be sure to add the FSTV channel on Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, on the FSTV iOS app, or find it in the regular channel lineup on DirecTV or Dish.Questions or comments? Email Rick@thericksmithshow.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT) President Melissa Cropper joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed House Bill 99 and the OFT's position on allowing teachers and staff to carry guns in schools. She also talked about the AFL-CIO Constitutional Convention and a recent filing by Equitas Healthcare Workers' to hold a union election and join the OFT.   Adam Dean, Assistant Professor of Political Science at George Washington University, and Jamie McCallum, Professor of Sociology at Middlebury College, appeared on the AWF Union Podcast and discussed separate studies they co-authored that explored the impact unions had on public health policy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT) President Melissa Cropper joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed the successful organizing campaign of charter school, Menlo Academy teaching staff, Ohio House Bill 616 and two OFT members running for seats on the Board of the State Teachers Retirement System.        Shawn McDonnell, West Central Florida Labor Council President and Assistant Business Manager/Organizer and President of IBEW Local 915, was today's second guest. He talked about the challenge of getting apprenticeship ordinances enforced once they have been passed. He also discussed the difference between top down and bottom up organizing techniques and when to use each approach. 

Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper joined the AWF Union Podcast to speak about the historic affiliation between the American Federation of Teachers and the American Association of University Professors. She also talked about two OFT members who are running for seats on the State Teachers Retirement System Board.   Today's second guest was Teamsters Local 200 Business Rep. Tom Benvenuto, who discussed the advantages truck drivers have in the current employment market, and how they can use this leverage to increase their pay.

Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper was the first featured guest on today's edition of the AWF Union Podcast. She spoke about a new poll showing strong support for public education, how redrawn congressional maps are not favorable for public education advocates to run for seats on the State Board of Education and the upcoming OFT biennial convention.   Also featured on the podcast today was Boilermakers Local 154 Business Agent Shawn Steffee. He discussed how Boilermakers are navigating the “green and renewable” trend in energy conservation, carbon capture to make fossil fuels more efficient and the Boilermakers apprenticeship program.

Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper was featured on the podcast today. She spoke about the Reading Opens the World campaign, a charter school using delay tactics to slow a unionizing effort and teachers fighting for safe conditions to keep schools open for in-person learning.   American Federation of Government Employees District 5 National Fair Practices Affirmative Action Coordinator Ceretta Smith was also featured on today's America's Work Force Union Podcast. She discussed the need for more union members to run for elected office, how her city successfully raised the minimum wage to $15 and other political races in Georgia.

Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper was the first guest on today's episode of the AWF Union Podcast. She discussed difficulties faced by teachers attempting to unionize at Menlo Park in northeast Ohio. She also discussed legislation introduced by Rep. Tim Ryan (D-OH) to help students with Social Emotional Learning. Good Jobs First Executive Director Greg LeRoy was also featured on today's show. He spoke about CARES Act spending and how those expenditures were poorly documented by most states. LeRoy also discussed the fact taxpayers are funding Amazon warehouse expansions.

Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper was the first guest on today's episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast. She spoke about teachers getting “May tired” in November, causing them to feel burnt out. She also discussed how well-funded campaigns dominated recent school board elections nationwide. Also featured on today's episode was Sprinkler Fitters Local 669 Training and Outreach Specialist Tim Coleman. To highlight National Apprenticeship Week, Coleman spoke about the Local 669 registered apprenticeship program and explained how apprenticeships help put workers on a path to the middle class.

Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper addressed the “Backpack Bill,” Ohio House Bill 290, which could gut public education and provide a universal voucher to all students in Ohio regardless of income or the performance of their local public schools. She also spoke about student loan forgiveness and the alarming rate of student loan debt. UCOMM Blog Editor-in-Chief Kris LaGrange was also featured on today's episode of the AWF Union Podcast. He gave advice on what to do and what not to do when standing in solidarity with striking workers. LaGrange also encouraged unions to take advantage of having President Biden in office.

Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper joined the AWF Union Podcast today to discuss mask mandates in Ohio schools and their effectiveness. She also discussed the recent redrawing of Ohio's congressional maps. Cropper contends the maps are unconstitutional. Humana Associate Vice President of Group Medicare Eric St. Pierre was also featured on today's episode. He spoke about group Medicare Advantage plans and how they offer great care to retirees.

Conversations about race, equity, and inclusion are not new to K-12 classrooms. From studying MLK's "I Have a Dream" speech to the analysis of works by poet Maya Angelou, these discussions have been necessary components in lessons on history, literature, and art for decades.rnrnYet, in response to sudden outrage over Critical Race Theory, the Ohio state legislature has introduced two bills that ban "divisive concepts" - a broad definition that leaves much to interpretation and has put many routine classroom conversations in jeopardy.rnrnWhat will be at stake if these conversations are prohibited in schools? Why are honest conversations about race, equity, and inclusion important in K-12 education?rnrnJoin the City Club for a virtual conversation with local voices at the heart of the matter: John Adams, Department Chair for History, Cleveland School of Science and Medicine at John Hay High School; Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers; Owen Ganor, Student at Rocky River High School; and Sarah Rintamaki, a parent of two children in the Westlake City Schools.

International Union of Painters and Allied Trades District Council 7 Business Manager/Secretary Treasurer Jeff Mehrhoff made his debut appearance on today's episode of the AWF Union Podcast. He spoke about his involvement with the union, their organizing efforts, why so-called “Right to Work” is damaging to the workforce and the misclassification of workers in the construction industry. Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper also joined the show to speak about cleaning and sanitizing protocols and mask mandates as students head back to school. She also discussed the vaccination rate among Ohio's teachers.

Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper joined the AWF Union Podcast today to discuss the attempt by Worthington Public Library workers to organize for a stronger voice in the workplace. She also spoke about Ohio educators celebrating the Fair School Funding Plan, which was included in the state's budget. Missouri-Kansas Laborers-Employers Cooperation and Education Trust Executive Director Laura Wagner was also featured on today's episode. She talked with host Ed “Flash” Ferenc about the role of an LECET regional director, the work they perform to support Laborers training, recruiting, promoting the union construction industry and more.

UA Local 669 JATC Recruitment and Outreach Specialist Tim Coleman discussed the UA Local 669 apprenticeship program, how the COVID-19 pandemic affected apprenticeship and how a career in the trades is a viable path to the middle class.  Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper was also featured on today's edition of the AWF Union Podcast. She spoke about the Ohio Supreme Court ruling finding Ohio school funding unconstitutional, broadband issues throughout the pandemic and Critical Race Theory. 

American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten was the first featured guest today on the AWF Union Podcast. Weingarten spoke about the need to get students back to school. The complex issue involves a combination of vaccination, safety protocols and helping families feel comfortable. Also featured on today’s episode was Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper. She spoke about Critical Race Theory and what critics are saying about it, how Critical Race Theory has been accepted in Ohio and an Ohio bill that affects public school funding.

American Public Transportation Association President and CEO Paul Skoutelas was one of the featured guests on today’s edition of the AWF Union Podcast. He spoke about the public transit industry, why it is so difficult for lawmakers to work on transportation legislation, the American Jobs Plan and how it will provide sufficient funding and investment in inner city transportation. Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper also joined the podcast today to discuss public school funding, private school vouchers and how they hurt public schools, legislation allowing teachers and school staff to be armed with little training and legislation being presented that would ban transgender students from competing in school sports. 

The first featured guest today on the AWF Union Podcast was Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper. She discussed the America Rescue Plan and how the money in the bill will be used for state and local aid, keeping schools open and cutting child poverty across the entire nation. American Federation of Teachers - West Virginia President Fred Albert was our second guest speaker on the podcast. He discussed legislators taking retaliatory actions against teachers unions in West Virginia, union busting, and how their teachers navigated the pandemic.

Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper was the first featured guest on today’s edition of the AWF Union Podcast. Cropper spoke with host Ed “Flash” Ferenc about Ohio Governor Mike DeWine calling out school districts in Ohio for not opening schools back up by March 1, priorities for teachers and school staff receiving the vaccine and calling out inequities in Ohio school funding.Also featured on the podcast today was Florida Education Association President Andrew Spar. Spar discussed the teacher shortage during the pandemic, teachers dying from COVID-19 after constant exposure and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis not allowing teachers to move up in priority to receive the vaccine, but allowing schools to open.

Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper joined the AWF Union Podcast today to discuss Ohio Governor Mike DeWine calling for schools to reopen March 1, teachers and other school personnel moving up on the priority list to receive the COVID-19 vaccine and Biden’s nominations for Secretary of Education and Secretary of Labor.Tony Reardon, National President of the National Treasury Employees Union also joined the podcast today. He explained how federal employees were affected by the pandemic, the disrespect of the outgoing administration and how they damaged the federal workforce.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers was one of our featured guests today on AWF Union Podcast. She spoke about Ohio Senate Bill 17, fair funding for schools in Ohio, how vouchers have taken money out of Ohio school systems and COVID-19 vaccines for teachers.Andrew Spar, President of the Florida Education Association also joined the podcast today. He discussed funding in Florida schools, the state diverting money to private schools and not helping the underfunded public schools and how Florida teachers have been attempting to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper was one of two featured guests today on America’s Work Force Union Podcast. She covered topics such as the current state of schools during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Biden transition team, changes in the Department of Education and making public schools a high quality choice again. Zach Schiller, Research Director with Policy Matters Ohio wrapped up today’s edition of AWF Union Podcast. He spoke with host Ed “Flash” Ferenc about the election results and changes in policies that will affect Ohioans. 

American Federation of Teachers Vice President Melissa Cropper was the first featured guest on America’s Work Force Union Podcast today. With election season in full swing, Cropper covered topics such as state school board elections in Ohio, the incumbents up for reelection in the Ohio Supreme Court, the Presidential election and a bus tour through Ohio. The second guest was BlueGreen Alliance Executive Director Jason Walsh who covered a wide range of topics. He offered some background about the organization, organizing the wind and solar industries, fundamental labor law reform, President Trump’s broken promises to the coal mining industry and how a second term for President Trump may cause a major crisis for workers and worker rights.

Our first featured guest today on America’s Work Force Union Podcast was Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper. Cropper spoke about issues with standardized testing, the fight to limit new private school vouchers and various other education related topics.Debbie Berkowitz, Worker Safety and Health program director for the National Employment Law Project (NELP) was the second featured guest today on the podcast. She discussed her time spent working with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and comparing how pandemics were dealt with in the past compared to now, OSHA’s lack of response to worker complaints and how the COVID-19 pandemic exposed how weak worker rights really are. 

Today on America’s Work Force Radio Podcast, Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers spoke about protection plans for teachers and students as schools reopen, as well as different issues that different schools will face.Sean Egan, director of COVID-19 workplace safety in the state of Michigan spoke with AWF Radio Podcast about his appointment to the position, MIOSHA, the General Duty Clause and keeping workers protected as they work through the COVID-19 pandemic.

President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, Melissa Cropper spoke about the threat of the federal government cutting funding to schools if they do not reopen in the fall. Ed Mortimer of the Americans for Transportation Mobility (ATM) coalition spoke with about the investment in domestic infrastructure. He said their coalition encourages elected leaders to invest money to repair old infrastructure as well as bring infrastructure systems into the 21st century. 

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