Podcasts about National Education Association

Author and homeschool pioneer Sam Blumenfeld gives a presentation on the topic of his book which exposes the National Education Association.  This audio is from the Sam Blumenfeld Archives http://blumenfeld.campconstitution.net/main.htm

When the Association for Cuyahoga County Employees for Special Students (ACCESS) sat down at the bargaining table a few years ago, they were told, 'if you don't like it here, you can leave.' In that moment, ACCESS leaders said, 'if we don't like it here, we can make it better.' And that's what they did - nearly going out on strike to achieve those critically important gains in their contract. In this episode, we hear from ACCESS Co-President Ky Theophanous about his journey to leadership, that 2023 bargaining crisis, and how it brought the members of his local association together to better advocate for themselves and for the individuals they serve through the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities today.READ THE STORY IN OHIO SCHOOLS | Parts of this conversation with Ky Theophanous were featured in the April/May 2025 edition of OEA's Ohio Schools magazine. Click here to check out the story on pages 20-21. 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: Kyriakos "Ky" Theophanous, ACCESS Co-PresidentConnect 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. The interview in this episode was recorded by Julie Newhall on February 25, 2025. 

District cites legal advice, fear of losing funds The Haldane school board voted unanimously on Tuesday (April 22) to suspend its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy in hopes of safeguarding $450,000 in federal funding threatened by the Trump administration's opposition to DEI programs. The district's resolution suspended the policy "pending clarification of the conflict between the respective positions of the state and federal governments regarding Title VI [of the Civil Rights Act of 1964] and DEI." The five-member board also approved a resolution certifying compliance with Title VI, which prohibits racial discrimination in federally funded programs. The Trump administration had set a Thursday (April 24) deadline for local school districts to eliminate "illegal DEI practices" or potentially lose funding. However, on Thursday, a federal judge in New Hampshire temporarily blocked the administration's guidance forbidding DEI efforts in K-12 public schools. The ruling came in a lawsuit brought by the National Education Association and the American Civil Liberties Union, which accused the Republican administration of violating teachers' due process and First Amendment rights. On Friday, attorneys general from 18 states, including New York, sought a federal court order stopping the Department of Education from implementing the April 3 certification demand, calling it illegal and unconstitutional. In February, the U.S. Education Department told schools and colleges they needed to end any practice that differentiates people based on their race or they would risk losing their federal funding. Craig Trainor, the acting assistant secretary for civil rights, issued a "Dear Colleague" letter arguing that a Supreme Court decision in 2023 banning race-based college admissions extended to DEI policies in public schools. "DEI programs, for example, frequently preference certain racial groups and teach students that certain racial groups bear unique moral burdens that others do not," Trainor wrote. "Such programs stigmatize students who belong to particular racial groups based on crude racial stereotypes. Consequently, they deny students the ability to participate fully in the life of a school." Earlier this month, the department ordered states to gather signatures from local districts certifying compliance with civil rights laws, including rejection of what the federal government calls "illegal DEI practices." The directive did not carry the force of law but threatened to use civil rights enforcement to rid schools of DEI practices. Schools were warned that continuing such practices "in violation of federal law" could lead to U.S. Justice Department litigation and termination of federal grants and contracts. At least 15 states, including New York, said they would not comply with the federal order. "We understand that the current administration seeks to censor anything it deems 'diversity, equity & inclusion,'" wrote Daniel Morton-Bentley, a lawyer for the New York Education Department. "But there are no federal or state laws prohibiting the principles of DEI." He added also that the federal government had "yet to define what practices it believes violate Title VI." At Haldane, interim Superintendent Carl Albano called the federal dollars, which are used to educate students with disabilities, provide student lunches and fund other initiatives, "a significant amount of money" that "could be at risk if you keep these policies in place." He said that Haldane's legal counsel had advised suspending the DEI policy, at least temporarily. The district adopted its DEI policy in December 2022 in "recognition of the inherent value of diversity and acknowledgement that educational excellence requires a commitment to equity in the opportunities provided to students and the resulting outcomes." The policy noted that Haldane's mission is to prepare its students to succeed in "an ever-changing global society," a goal that requires incorporating a DEI l...

The Trump administration is waging war against diversity, equity, and inclusion. But what does that mean for educators when it comes to discussing race, equity, and history in the classroom? How can schools continue to foster inclusive learning environments despite these restrictions? Alice O'Brien, general counsel for the National Education Association, walks through your rights, risks, and opportunities for to push back against anti-equality policies and fear tactics.

As the demand for Career Tech education continues to grow in Ohio, Career Tech programs continue to struggle to attract and retain educators to serve students because of problems with the way most salary schedules are structured. Career Tech educators often have years or decades of prior experience in the private sector - and the expertise they can share with their students is invaluable as a result - but many do not have the advanced degrees that other educators who took a more traditional path to the classroom often do, so Career Tech educators' salaries often don't reflect the value they bring to our schools. The Greene County Career Center Education Association recently bargained a new kind of salary schedule and new contract language to change that, and now they're hoping other local associations will follow their lead.SEE THE GCCCEA COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT AND SALARY SCHEDULE | Greene County Career Center Education Association President Doug Picard is happy to show other local leaders what his association accomplished in its latest negotiations and share his insight about how it could be replicated for other educators across the state. You can reach Doug by email at douglaspicard@gmail.comLISTEN TO OUR PREVIOUS CONVERSATION | Regular Public Education Matters listeners may recognize Doug Picard from a previous episode this season. Doug reached out with the follow up discussed in this episode after an earlier conversation about the Growing Demand for Career Tech in Ohio. Click here to listen to that conversation in Season 5, Episode 17.  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.SOCIAL SECURITY FAIRNESS | For too long, the federal Government Pension Offset and Windfall Elimination Provisions of the Social Security Act have unfairly hurt Career Tech educators, who often enter the education profession after private sector careers. At the end of 2024, Sen. Sherrod Brown's Social Security Fairness Act passed in Congress. Click here to read OEA's statement on the landmark legislation.Featured Public Education Matters guests: P.R. Frank, Greene County Career Center Education Association memberAn educator for 31 years, P.R. Frank came to CTE in 2007 after 15 years as a public school educator. He helped to start three successful Dayton schools, has led teacher professional development, and has taught in classrooms ranging from elementary to post-secondary education. Prior to joining a career technical school, P.R. enjoyed developing his own small business as a digital media creator in his spare time. He champions great curriculum design, excellent teaching, and giving students a step up in life pursuits.Doug Picard, Greene County Career Center Education Association President Doug Picard is in his sixth year as a manufacturing and engineering instructor at the Greene County Career Center (GCCC) in Xenia, Ohio. Before joining GCCC, he served 21 years in the U.S. Air Force, where he taught in classrooms, developed avionics test programs, and authored technical policies. At GCCC, his teaching emphasizes human-centered design and adaptive technologies to support underrepresented communities. Picard has also collaborated with the University of Dayton and Central State University as a research mentor for their Global STEM Research Experience for Teachers where he studied engineering in developing areas in Ecuador and India. Over the next three years, he will work with these universities, along with Wright State University, on a National Science Foundation-funded Research Experience for Teachers focused on electronics and semiconductors.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. The interview for this episode was recorded on April 14, 2025.

Union membership empowers educators to improve their lives and advocate for themselves and their students to ensure Ohio's learners have the supports and resources they need to succeed. Now, thanks to a partnership between NEA Member Benefits and Edvance, OEA membership has extra value - with access to up to 50 percent off tuition for many online college and certification courses. In this episode, we hear from Ashley Kaufman about how the NEA College Benefit through Edvance is helping OEA members and their families break down barriers and earn degrees.EXPLORE THE PROGRAMS AND THE SAVINGS | Edvance has negotiated tuition discounts for a number of 100% online schools and programs for OEA Members and their families. Click here to start exploring the available programs to see how NEA's College Benefit can help make college and certificate courses accessible and affordable to you and your family.SHARE THIS RESOURCE WITH YOUR FELLOW EDUCATORS | Education benefits like those available through the Edvance network are just one more reason for educators in your district to join your local association. Click here for information local leaders can share with other educators.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: Ashley Kaufman, Director of Channel Management, EdvanceAshley Kaufman is the Director of Channel Management at Edvance, bringing a career rooted in marketing, higher education, and franchising to this role. Passionate about work that helps others grow personally and professionally, Ashley believes that education is a powerful tool—equipping individuals with the knowledge and insight to make informed decisions that support themselves, their families, and their communities.With a deep understanding of the challenges working adults face when pursuing a higher education, Ashley works to build strategic partnerships with union leaders that makes higher education more attainable and impactful for union members and their families to advance their careers and achieve their goals.As a parent of young children, Ashley sees firsthand the profound role education plays in shaping the future. Her commitment to lifelong learning isn't just professional—it's personal. She strives to set an example of continuous growth, kindness, and the pursuit of opportunities that make a meaningful impact, both at work and at home.Connect with Ashley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleykaufman1208/Connect with Edvance: https://www.linkedin.com/company/edvance-education/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 17, 2025.

In this episode of The Human Experience, I sit down with Vincent Thompson, longtime journalist and current Communications Director for the President of Philadelphia City Council. Born and raised in Philly, Vincent shares how his curiosity led him from a school newspaper to national political conventions and eventually into public service. We discuss the power of local government, how to engage with your city, and why compassion still matters in civic life. Whether you're a Philly native or just want to better understand how your community works, this episode will leave you both informed and inspired.Interview recorded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.Key Takeaways:Vincent Thompson is the Communications Director for Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson.A lifelong Philadelphian, he grew up in North Philly and Germantown, and attended Temple University and Marietta College.He began his career in journalism, covering politics for outlets like the Philadelphia Tribune and WURD Radio.Vincent has hosted City Council radio sessions and emphasized the importance of knowing your district councilmember.He explains the structure of local government and why citizens should be more engaged at the city level.He encourages people to “be curious, not judgmental” and offers a human-centered view of government service.Vincent shares personal stories—from receiving a letter from his journalism idol to the importance of leading with kindness in leadership.A passionate advocate for Philadelphia, he invites visitors to see City Hall, the city's diverse neighborhoods, and yes—try the cheesesteaks (but he's not picking favorites).Vincent Thompson's Bio:Vincent Thompson is the Director of Communications for Philadelphia (Pa) City Council and Philadelphia City Council President Kenyatta Johnson. In his more than 30 year career in media and government, he has served as a Chief of Staff for the late Philadelphia City Councilman Juan Ramos, spokesperson for two past School District of Philadelphia Superintendents, former President of the Philadelphia Black Public Relations Society, former Vice President/Broadcast for the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists and has covered Republican and Democratic National Conventions starting with the 1988 Republican National Convention. Mr. Thompson has won numerous awards in his career for his work in journalism, public relations and community service. In 2018, he received PABJ's Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2017, he was named Politics and Government Reporter of the Year by the Pen & Pencil Club of Philadelphia, the nation's oldest press club in daily operation. He has been named one of Philadelphia's Most Influential African-Americans by the Philadelphia Tribune newspaper and has been a winner of the National Education Association's Excellence in Broadcasting Award.Connect with Vincent:Twitter @MediamancommInstagram: @phillymediamancomm#TheHumanExperiencePodcastFollow Along:Website: https://www.thehxpod.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehxpod/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/getthehxTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehxpodYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thehxpodSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ohio educators want professional development opportunities that give them the tools to be the best educators possible for their students. But, too often, school districts prescribe PD that doesn't feel like a valuable use of anyone's time. Ohio's Educator Standards Board set out to change that by making the state's Professional Learning Standards more user-friendly and more useful. Educator Standards Board member Eugene Mach walks us through the process and the changes that are in the pipeline for educators around the state.SEE THE CURRENT STANDARDS | If you'd like to look at the previously adopted Standards for Professional Development to see how they compare to the new Professional Learning Standards as proposed, click here to read the full document. KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THE NEW STANDARDS | The Educator Standards Board voted to move their newly developed Professional Learning Standards forward to the State Board of Education for consideration in March. The Professional Learning Standards document is not on the agenda for the State Board of Education's April meeting. Check the State Board of Education's webpage to keep tabs on when the document moves forward and to see the latest version of the document under consideration. Please note, the Educator Standards Board voted on March 7, 2025, to move forward this version of the Professional Learning Standards without the words 'equity' or 'inclusion,' despite the objections of several ESB members, including Eugene Mach, who is featured in this episode. This episode was recorded before that vote took place, so discussions about those changes are not included in the conversation you hear here.  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: Eugene Mach II, Warren Education Association President, Ohio Educator Standards Board memberEugene is a high school business teacher at Warren G. Harding High School. He serves on the Ohio Educator Standards Board, NEA Resolution Committee (Citizenship and Right subcommittee Co-Chair), OEA/NEOEA Resolutions Committee, NEOEA Summer Leadership Committee, and is the President of the Warren Education Association. He has served on various other committees during his time as an active OEA member, is a former Warren City Council member and a former candidate for state representative. He holds a bachelors degree in Integrated Business Education, a Masters in Education Administration, and is currently working to complete a Masters in Business Administration with a focus in Human Resources Management. 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 6, 2025. 

Mason High School intervention specialist Hakim Oliver believes relationships are the basis of who we are. He created his multi-session Building Bridges program to help bring people together by helping them share their own stories and learn from the stories of others. Now, he's writing a book to share those lessons with others. Hakim shares his story in this episode of the podcast. 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.SHARE YOUR STORY | Public Education Matters continues to lift up the good work of OEA members and OEA locals across the state. Help us tell your local's story! Please send us an email at educationmatters@ohea.org to let us know about what educators you know are doing to help their schools, students, co-workers, and communities.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Hakim Oliver, Mason Education Association memberHakim Oliver earned a Bachelor's degree in Special Education from Bowling Green State University and earned a Master's degree in Teacher Leadership from Wright State University.  He has been in the education field for 20 years.  He created a Special Olympics club for students with disabilities at Mason High School.  Hakim currently coaches middle school football and high school track for Mason.   Relationships are his passion.  Mr. Oliver presented at various conferences, including The High Aims Summer Institute, Mason Student Leadership Conference, The University of Tennessee Innovation and Teaching Learning Conference, Maysville Community and Technical College, Ignite Conference, Great Lakes I-Ready Leadership Symposium, and the Ohio State Teacher Leadership Summit.In addition to this, Hakim Oliver created Bridges Stories to connect members of a community.  These communities include Mason, Milford, Loveland, Lebanon, Maysville, Augusta, and Dayton.The Bridging Stories program is intended to facilitate positive intergroup interactions and discussions, recognizing individual differences, and creating a community.  This event emphasizes building relationships through communication.  It is a multi-part series incorporating a panel discussion, public engagement and interaction, and small group discussion.  These discussions will conclude with sharing a meal at a local establishment.  This program is safe and positive for all backgrounds.  This event is free for all community members except for the last session, where the participants will be sharing a meal at a local restaurant, where each participant is responsible for the cost of their meal.Hakim Oliver is in the process of completing a book "Bridging Stories," highlighting the topics discussed in the community sessions.  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 4, 2025.

Almost 90% of Ohio's children - in big cities, small towns, and rural communities - grow up, learn, and dream at one of our public schools. But, House Bill 96, as introduced with the governor's plan for the next state budget, doesn't use updated costs in the Fair School Funding Plan formula calculations, leaving the formula broken and threatening to cut more than $100 million from hundreds of public school districts over the next two years, while at the same time continuing to pour much more money into private school voucher plans. Licking Heights Education Association Vice President Gina Daniels is among the thousands of educators, parents, and community members in our state who are coming together to stand up for the fully and fairly funded public schools our students need. In this episode, she explains why.TAKE ACTION | Tell your Ohio lawmakers to keep their promise to our public school students by finishing the phase in of the Fair School Funding Plan with a formula that accurately reflects the costs of providing the world-class education all Ohio kids deserve. Click here to use OEA's Action Alert to contact your legislators.KEEP UP TO DATE ON THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS | Click here to register to join the bi-weekly stakeholder calls with the All in for Ohio Kids coalition to make sure you have the latest information about where things stand for public school funding in Ohio as the state budget debate continues.  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: Gina Daniels, Licking Heights Education Association Vice PresidentGina Daniels is a history and government teacher at Licking Heights High School in Pataskala, Ohio where she has taught for the last 11 years. She has 24 years of experience in public education teaching middle school and high school social studies. She has served as Vice President of the Licking Heights Education Association for 7 years as well as serving on the OEA Organizing Committee. She is the proud product of public schools, daughter of a retired third grade teacher, and mother to two children who attend the Licking Heights schools as well.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 17, 2025.

Eight years ago, Chardon Education Association member Dan Heintz was feeling distressed by what was happening in federal politics, when he heard someone ask Michelle Obama, 'What do we do now?' She responded, "We do more," and Heintz realized he could do more by running for the Cleveland Heights-University Heights school board. Now, he wants more educators to follow his path and serve on school boards in their own local communities. In this episode, Heintz highlights the importance of having educators' voices in the room when decisions are made about school districts' policies, and shares his own experiences navigating some of the difficult decisions CH-UH Board of Education has had to make. 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.SHARE YOUR STORY | Public Education Matters continues to lift up the good work of OEA members and OEA locals across the state. Help us tell your local's story! Please send us an email at educationmatters@ohea.org to let us know about what educators you know are doing to help their schools, students, co-workers, and communities.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 15, 2025.

The 126 members of the Akron Association of Classified Personnel - one of five unions representing educators in Akron - have their work cut out for them when it comes to overcoming challenges in their district and community. But, they understand the power of standing together. And, they're willing to try new strategies to connect with stakeholders and build their strength. AACP Vice President Lola Booker-Brewer joins us for this episode to talk about some of the many new community and member engagement opportunities the local has created in the last year or so alone.  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.SHARE YOUR LOCAL'S STORY | Public Education Matters continues to lift up the good work of OEA members and OEA locals across the state. Help us tell your local's story! Please send us an email at educationmatters@ohea.org to let us know about what educators you know are doing to help their schools, students, co-workers, and communities.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Lola Booker-Brewer, Akron Association of Classified Personnel Vice PresidentConnect 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 18, 2025.

When students have access to music education in their schools -- taught by licensed music educators -- the impact on their lives can be huge, as they learn skills that serve them far beyond the four walls of their music classrooms. In fact, music in our schools is so important, March has been designated as Music in Our Schools month! In this episode, Margo Trinter, a music educator in Oberlin City Schools, and Jasmine Monacelli, a music educator in Sheffield-Sheffield Lake City schools, share their perspective on why music is such a valuable part the high-quality, well-rounded education every student deserves. 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.SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK | OEA members have been weighing in on the Public Education Matters podcast and on podcasts in general to help shape the future of OEA's podcast. More feedback is always welcome! Please email educationmatters@ohea.org or complete the podcast survey here.Featured Public Education Matters guests: Margo TrinterMrs. Margo Trinter is a PK-4 music teacher at Oberlin City Schools where she teaches general music. She is going into her 13th year of education. She holds a Bachelor of Music and a Master of Education, both from Ashland University. She has been a clinician at the Ohio Music Educators Association Conference in the past. And is currently President of her local school union. She is passionate about music education, agriculture, and advocating for strong voices for all. When she isn't busy at school she enjoys time with her husband, 2 kids, and her 3 legged dog on their farm Jasmine MonacelliJasmine Monacelli is in her 10th year serving as the Director of Bands for the Sheffield-Sheffield Lake City Schools in Lorain County, Ohio. She teaches band to about 250 students in grades 5-12 at Brookside Intermediate, Middle & High Schools. Prior to the start of her career, Jasmine earned a Bachelor's in Music Education from The University of Akron, and is a proud graduate of North Ridgeville City Schools. Jasmine is an active member and Treasurer of her local Teachers Association as well as a member of the Board of Directors for NEOEA. Jasmine lives in Lorain County near her childhood home with her husband Jonathan (Ironworkers Local 17) and their dog Soca (Jack Russell Terrier- age 7).  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 14, 2024.

As I delved into the intricacies of Project 2025, I couldn't help but feel a sense of both fascination and alarm. This sprawling initiative, spearheaded by the Heritage Foundation and crafted by a cadre of former Trump administration officials, lays out a vision for a radically reshaped federal government that is as ambitious as it is contentious.At its core, Project 2025 is a 900-page blueprint designed to guide the next conservative presidential administration, with a particular focus on the second term of Donald Trump. The project is built around four key pillars: a comprehensive policy guide, a database of potential personnel, a training program for these candidates, and a detailed playbook for the first 180 days in office[4].One of the most striking aspects of Project 2025 is its proposal to consolidate executive power and reshape the federal bureaucracy in the image of conservative ideology. The plan calls for the replacement of merit-based federal civil service workers with individuals loyal to Trump, effectively politicizing key government agencies such as the Department of Justice, the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Trade Commission. This move is part of a broader strategy to centralize control over the government, aligning with the unitary executive theory that advocates for greater presidential control over the executive branch[1].The implications of such a shift are profound. For instance, the Department of Justice, under Project 2025, would be thoroughly reformed to combat what the project terms "affirmative discrimination" or "anti-white racism," and would be tasked with prosecuting state and local governments, institutions of higher education, and private employers with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. Gene Hamilton, a former Trump DOJ official, argues that these programs "come at the expense of other Americans—and in nearly all cases violate longstanding federal law"[1].Education is another area where Project 2025 proposes sweeping changes. The plan envisions a significant reduction in the federal government's role in public education, advocating for the closure of the Department of Education and the transfer of education funding and policy to the states. This would include ending federal enforcement of civil rights in schools and allowing public funds to be used as school vouchers for private or religious schools. The National Center for Education Statistics would be merged with the Census Bureau, and programs like Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, which provides $18 billion in federal funds for schools in low-income areas, would be allowed to expire[1][3].The project's stance on education is encapsulated in its criticism of what it calls "woke propaganda" in public schools. It argues that federal overreach has led schools to prioritize "racial parity in school discipline indicators" over student safety. This perspective is reflected in the project's recommendation to end the Head Start program and cut funding for free school meals, with proponents like Roger Severino claiming that such programs do not provide value, though he has not provided evidence to support these claims[1].Environmental policy is another critical area where Project 2025's vision diverges sharply from current trends. The project advocates for the reversal of several key environmental regulations, including the 2009 EPA finding that carbon dioxide emissions are harmful to human health. It proposes preventing the EPA from regulating greenhouse gas emissions and blocking the expansion of the national electrical grid, thereby stymying the transition to renewable energy. Diana Furchtgott-Roth, the Heritage Foundation's energy and climate director, suggests that the EPA should support the consumption of more natural gas, despite concerns from climatologists about the increased leakage of methane, a potent greenhouse gas[1].These environmental proposals have been met with strong criticism from Republican climate advocates. Sarah E. Hunt, president of the Joseph Rainey Center for Public Policy, and U.S. Senator John Curtis have emphasized the importance of supporting good energy and climate policy, contrasting sharply with Project 2025's stance. Benji Backer, founder of the American Conservation Coalition, has noted a growing consensus among younger Republicans that human activity causes climate change, calling Project 2025's climate policy "wrongheaded"[1].The project's approach to law enforcement is equally contentious. It suggests that the Department of Justice has become a "bloated bureaucracy" infatuated with a "radical liberal agenda" and recommends that the DOJ be thoroughly reformed and closely overseen by the White House. The plan also proposes that the director of the FBI be personally accountable to the president, and that legal settlements between the DOJ and local police departments, known as consent decrees, be curtailed[1].In addition to these reforms, Project 2025 advocates for a more aggressive stance on immigration, recommending the arrest, detention, and mass deportation of illegal immigrants, as well as the deployment of the military for domestic law enforcement. It also proposes enacting laws supported by the Christian right, such as criminalizing the sending and receiving of abortion and birth control medications, and eliminating coverage of emergency contraception[1].Despite Trump's public disavowal of Project 2025, the initiative's proposals align closely with his past policies and current campaign promises. In a social media post, Trump claimed, "I know nothing about Project 2025. I have no idea who is behind it. I disagree with some of the things they're saying and some of the things they're saying are absolutely ridiculous and abysmal." However, a line-by-line review by CBS News identified at least 270 proposals in Project 2025 that match Trump's policies[4].The project's impact on American governance could be profound. By centralizing executive power, dismantling federal agencies, and implementing a wide range of conservative policies, Project 2025 aims to reshape the very fabric of the federal government. As Kevin Roberts of the Heritage Foundation put it, "The nation is in the process of the second American Revolution, which will remain bloodless if the left allows it to be." This rhetoric underscores the project's ambition and the potential for significant political and social upheaval[4].As we move forward, it is clear that Project 2025 will remain a contentious and influential force in American politics. With Trump's second term underway, many of the project's architects and supporters have been nominated to key positions in his administration. The coming months will be crucial in determining how many of these proposals are implemented and what their long-term effects will be on the country.In the words of the National Education Association, "The American public is united: The 900+ page blueprint for another Trump presidency... would be disastrous for the nation." Whether this prediction holds true remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – Project 2025 represents a seismic shift in the political landscape, one that will have far-reaching consequences for the future of American governance[3].

Despite bipartisan opposition, Senate Bill 1 is being fast-tracked in the Ohio General Assembly. The re-introduced version of Senate Bill 83, known by many as the Ohio Higher Education Destruction Act, micromanages higher education classrooms and threatens academic freedom on Ohio's public university and college campuses. Moreover, by prohibiting faculty and staff from striking and limiting their ability to bargain in areas that directly affect their ability to shape the learning conditions for their students, it's the biggest attack on workers' rights in Ohio since Senate Bill 5. And Ohioans are standing up to fight back. Nearly 1,000 people testified against SB 1 before the Ohio Senate voted it through in February. In this episode, we share some of their voices. CONTACT YOUR REPRESENTATIVE IN THE OHIO HOUSE | After the Ohio Senate approved SB 1 with a vote of 21-11 in mid-February, it moved to the Ohio House to consider. Use this Action Alert to tell your representative why they must oppose the bill in that chamber. WATCH THE SENATE COMMITTEE HEARING | In hours of in person testimony, Ohio students, faculty, organized labor leaders, and other community members offered their thoughts on why Senate Bill 1 is bad for Ohio. Click here to watch the recording on the Ohio Channel.READ THE TESTIMONY | The testimony featured in this episode represents excerpts from the full testimony submitted to the Senate Higher Education Committee. You can read all 1,000+ pieces of testimony here. You can also read OEA's full testimony and/or Adam Keller's full testimony by clicking on those links. 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 OEA member voices in this episode: Jeff Wensing, OEA Vice PresidentAdam Keller, Columbus State Education Association PresidentConnect 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 features testimony from the Ohio Senate Higher Education Committee hearing on February 11, 2025.

Becky Pringle, President of the largest labor union in America, the National Education Association joins.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

As I delved into the intricacies of Project 2025, I found myself navigating a complex web of policy proposals, ideological convictions, and far-reaching implications for American governance. This initiative, spearheaded by the Heritage Foundation and involving over 100 conservative groups, is more than just a policy guide; it is a blueprint for a radical transformation of the federal government.At its core, Project 2025 is a 900-plus page "Mandate for Leadership" authored by former Trump administration officials and other conservative stalwarts. The project is built around four pillars: a policy guide for the next presidential administration, a database of potential personnel, training for these candidates, and a playbook of actions to be taken within the first 180 days in office[4].One of the most striking aspects of Project 2025 is its vision for the redistribution of power within the federal government. The project advocates for a significant expansion of presidential powers, aiming to place the entire executive branch under direct presidential control. This includes eliminating the independence of agencies such as the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). According to Kevin Roberts, president of the Heritage Foundation, all federal employees should answer directly to the president, reflecting a unitary executive theory that centralizes greater control in the White House[2].This centralization of power is not limited to administrative restructuring. Project 2025 also proposes sweeping reforms in various federal agencies. For instance, the Department of Education is slated for dismantling, a move that would gut federal education funding and deny critical resources to vulnerable students. The National Education Association has warned that such changes would devastate public education, sanctioning discrimination against LGBTQ+ students and undermining the very fabric of the education system[3].In the realm of disaster response, Project 2025 suggests a drastic shift in the role of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The proposal recommends reforming FEMA emergency spending to shift the majority of preparedness and response costs to states and localities, rather than the federal government. This aligns with Trump's recent actions, where he established a review council to advise on FEMA's capabilities and suggested that states should take over disaster response management. The project's authors argue that FEMA is "overtasked" and "overcompensates for the lack of state and local preparedness," leading to deep debt and an unsustainable model[1].The project's stance on law enforcement is equally contentious. It calls for a thorough reform of the DOJ, criticizing it as a "bloated bureaucracy" infatuated with a "radical liberal agenda." The proposal suggests that the DOJ should combat "affirmative discrimination" or "anti-white racism," and that the Civil Rights Division should prosecute state and local governments, institutions of higher education, and private employers with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This vision is starkly at odds with traditional civil rights protections and reflects a broader agenda to reverse decades of progress in civil rights[2].Project 2025's economic policies are no less radical. The plan includes proposals to cut overtime protections for over 4 million workers, stop efforts to lower prescription drug prices, and limit access to food assistance for millions of Americans. It also aims to eliminate funding for key public transportation projects, such as the Capital Investment Grants (CIG) program, which has been crucial for awarding federal grants to local communities for infrastructure projects. These changes would make it significantly harder for Americans without cars to commute to work or travel around their communities[5].The environmental implications of Project 2025 are equally alarming. The plan seeks to undermine critical climate action by attacking the EPA's "Endangerment Finding," a cornerstone of federal efforts to curb emissions under the Clean Air Act. By 'updating' this finding, Project 2025 would make it harder for the EPA to take action against climate change, effectively rolling back hard-fought gains in environmental protection[5].Despite Trump's public disavowal of Project 2025, the initiative's architects and supporters have been nominated to key positions in his administration. This close alignment between Trump's policies and Project 2025's proposals has led critics to argue that the project is, in essence, a roadmap for Trump's second term. As CBS News noted, nearly two-thirds of Trump's executive actions in his second term mirror or partially mirror proposals from Project 2025[4].The broader themes of Project 2025—centralization of power, dismantling of social safety nets, and a radical shift in federal policies—paint a picture of an initiative that is both ambitious and deeply divisive. As the American public becomes more aware of these proposals, opposition grows, reflecting a deep-seated concern about the direction in which this project could steer the country.Looking forward, the implementation of Project 2025's policies will likely be a contentious and highly politicized process. With the project's architects now in key positions within the administration, the next few months will be crucial in determining how many of these proposals become reality. As the nation navigates this complex landscape, one thing is clear: Project 2025 represents a profound shift in American governance, one that could have far-reaching and lasting impacts on the lives of millions of Americans.

2.20.2025 #RolandMartinUnfiltered: Dismantling DOE, USDA land-grant scholarships pulled, Meta's digital redlining, Kash Patel confirmed The vetting committee has voted to advance Trump's nominee for the Education Department for confirmation votes on the Senate floor. I will speak with the president of the National Education Association, who will explain why Linda McMahon should not be appointed as Secretary of Education. The USDA's 1890 National Scholars Program, which partners with 19 HBCUs to provide full scholarships in agriculture, food sciences, and natural resources, gets cut. Civil rights groups are suing the tech company META for digital redlining. One of the lawyers involved in the case will join us to explain the situation. We will discuss how Musk is pressuring advertisers. Kash Patel has been confirmed to lead the FBI. A California Congressman gets a letter from the Justice Department because of his comments about Elon Musk. And the White Missouri man who shot an unarmed black teen who rang his doorbell dies just weeks before his sentencing. #BlackStarNetwork partner: Fanbasehttps://www.startengine.com/offering/fanbase This Reg A+ offering is made available through StartEngine Primary, LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. This investment is speculative, illiquid, and involves a high degree of risk, including the possible loss of your entire investment. You should read the Offering Circular (https://bit.ly/3VDPKjD) and Risks (https://bit.ly/3ZQzHl0) related to this offering before investing. Download the #BlackStarNetwork app on iOS, AppleTV, Android, Android TV, Roku, FireTV, SamsungTV and XBox http://www.blackstarnetwork.com The #BlackStarNetwork is a news reporting platform covered under Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ohio Education Association is made up of about 750 Local associations across the state - each with its own elected leaders. But, when it comes to the prospect of stepping into Local leadership, some potential Local presidents may not even know where they would begin. As the presidents of the Trotwood Madison Education Association and the Northwest Teachers Association tell us, supports like trainings from the National Education Association for new presidents have been invaluable as they've embarked on and grown in their new roles. SEE THE OHIO SCHOOLS STORY | Barb Newtown was also featured in the December/January edition of the Ohio Schools magazine. Click here to read the story on Page 21.  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 17th year of teaching. The 2024-2025 school year marks his first year as Local president. Graham received his bachelor's degree in Middle Childhood Education from Wright State University. He is currently pursuing his Master of Arts degree in Religion at Southern Evangelical Seminary, and expects to graduate in 2025.Barb Newtown, President, Northwest Teachers' Association (Stark Co.)Currently serving in her fourth year as Northwest Teachers' Association president, Barb Newtown is passionate about community engagement and advocating for members. She is a middle school Tech Resource Teacher who has been teaching for 31 years. During that time, Newton has served 20 years as a building representative for her Local union. She also has 20 years of coaching experience at the middle school and high school level. 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 16, 2024.

What do growing enthusiasm for a hog raffle and a quest for better inter-union communication have in common? These are two of the many items on April Troup's wish list as she continues to make her mark as president of the Norwayne Educational Support Professionals local. Troup, who is in her second year of her presidency, joins us for this episode to share her perspective on how her ESP local has achieved a more than 95% membership rate, and on some of the unique challenges faced by Education Support Professionals and ESP locals around the state. SEE THE OHIO SCHOOLS STORY | April Troup was also featured in the October/November edition of the Ohio Schools magazine. Click here to read the story on Page 23.  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: April Troup, President, Norwayne Educational Support Professionals  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, 2024.

From Diane Ravitch to 2022 National Teacher of the Year Kurt Russell - to a wide range of public school advocates and leaders in between - the Network for Public Education and Network for Public Education Action's 2025 national conference on April 5th and 6th in Columbus will bring together some of the biggest players in the national conversation about the future of our public schools. All Ohio educators and public school allies are invited to attend and be part of the conversation. NPE/NPE Action Executive Director Carol Burris joins us for this episode to dive into what the conference promises and why it's so important for all of us to stand together to save our public schools.  REGISTER NOW | If you'd like to attend the Network for Public Education/Network for Public Education Action national conference at the Hyatt Regency in Columbus on April 5 and 6, 2025, click here for more information 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 January 15, 2025.

Whether you live in the heart of one of Ohio's big cities or in the rolling hills of Appalachia - or anywhere in between - what happens in the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus make a huge difference in your life and what happens in our public school classrooms every day. That's why it's so important to have pro-public education lawmakers in the General Assembly and to hear from them about the big issues on the horizon for our public schools. OEA members were able to hear from a bipartisan panel of state lawmakers in December, 2024, about education priorities heading into the final days of the 135th General Assembly and looking ahead at what's coming in the 136th General Assembly as it gets underway in 2025.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.SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK | OEA members have been weighing in on the Public Education Matters podcast and on podcasts in general to help shape the future of OEA's podcast. More feedback is always welcome! Please email educationmatters@ohea.org or complete the podcast survey here.Featured Public Education Matters guests: State Rep. Dani Isaachsohn (D-24th Ohio House District)In the Statehouse, Rep. Isaacsohn is committed to fighting for a world-class public education for every student, better childcare for parents, smarter housing policy to bring down prices and increase supply, and making sure that seniors have what they need to age with dignity. He also knows that we must tackle racial and income inequality head-on in order to make lasting progress. Rep. Isaacsohn's district includes almost half of the City of Cincinnati. He is a Walnut Hills High School graduate, and received a bachelor's degree from Georgetown University, a master's degree from Cambridge University, and a J.D. from Yale Law School.State Rep. Justin Pizzulli (R-90th Ohio House District)Rep. Pizzulli's district encompasses all of Scioto and Adams Counties, as well as parts of Brown County. His priorities are protecting the sanctity of life, protecting Ohioans' second amendment rights, and promoting economic growth and prosperity. Outside of his role as State Representative, Rep. Pizzulli works as a realtor in Wheelersburg and as a Class 1 Commercial Freight Conductor in Portsmouth. He also has a packed resume of campaign and management experience. His previous experience and current careers allow him to bring a unique perspective to the table as an elected official and better represent the people of the 90th House District. Rep. Pizzulli lives in Franklin Furnace and in his free time, he is probably enjoying a movie.State Sen. William DeMora (D-25th Ohio Senate District)Sen. DeMora's passion for public service began at a young age. He grew up watching his father serve the people of his hometown, Euclid, as a city council member. DeMora took his passion for public service and civic engagement with him to The Ohio State University where he served as President for the Ohio State College Democrats and the Ohio College Democrats before graduating with honors.DeMora previously served as Executive Director of the Ohio Democratic Party and as Executive Director of the Ohio League of Conservation Voters. He has led numerous statewide and national political campaigns supporting candidates for municipal and statewide and national office, as well as for the Ohio General Assembly. DeMora has also served as Ohio Democratic Party's Convention and Delegate Director, where he has directed the Democratic National Convention's Ohio delegation for the past 8 election cycles. Senator DeMora continues to be a Senior Consultant and Parliamentarian for the Ohio Democratic Party as well as a campaign manager for several statewide and legislative candidates.He represents the 25th Senate District which encompasses areas of Franklin County, including  Grandview Heights, Marble Cliff, Minerva Park, Upper Arlington, Valleyview, and The Ohio State University, as well as parts of Columbus,  Blendon Township, Clinton Township, Franklin Township, Norwich Township, Perry Township, Plain Township, Prairie Township, and Sharon Township.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. The content of this episode was recorded at the OEA Fall RA on December 7, 2024.

Guest: Kartoon Studios' CEO & CFO Share Their 2025 Outlook $TOON Website: www.kartoonstudios.com Ticker: $TOON Press Release https://www.kartoonstudios.com/news/press-releases/detail/1253/kartoon-studios-executives-to-unveil-2025-dynamic-growth Andy's Bio Multi-Emmy Award-winning producer, and CEO of Kartoon Studios, Andy Heyward has made more episodes of children's television than any other producer, including Walt Disney. After graduating from UCLA with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy in 1975, he joined Hanna-Barbera as a writer and story editor. During his five years with Hanna-Barbera, he was involved in the development and writing of numerous series including Scooby Doo, Flintstones, Jetsons, Smurfs, Yogi Bear, and Scooby's All Star Laff-A-Lympics. In 1980, he moved to France where he joined DIC Audiovisual, a production company specializing in children's animated programming. In 1982, he co-created Inspector Gadget and during the following years he produced over 5,000 episodes of award-winning children's programs, most of which shows and brands are household names, including Inspector Gadget, The Real Ghostbusters, Alvin and the Chipmunks, Hello Kitty, Sonic the Hedgehog, Super Mario Bros, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Strawberry Shortcake, Care Bears, Captain Planet, Teddy Ruxpin, Sailor Moon, Madeline, Where on Earth is Carmen Sandiego, Liberty's Kids, Warren Buffett's Secret Millionaires Club, Llama Llama, Rainbow Rangers, Stan Lee's Superhero Kindergarten starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, and dozens more. In 1994, he convened the National PTA, National Education Association, UCLA School of Education, and producers from throughout the industry to draft the first voluntary set of program guidelines for children's television. In 1996, he hosted the first meeting between then FCC Chairman Reed Hundt and children's television producers. Today under Kartoon Studios, Heyward produces and licenses brands ranging from Stan Lee Universe, to Baby Genius, to Warren Buffett's Secret Millionaires Club, to Thomas Edison's Secret Lab, to Stan Lee's Superhero Kindergarten, to the recently released Shaq's Garage for the global market. He has also been the largest producer of FCC mandated educational informational programming for children, and has produced hundreds of PSAs promoting child safety, health, exercise, and nutrition. In collaboration with Warren Buffett, he produces the short film which opens the annual Berkshire Hathaway Shareholders meeting, and he co-authored a book with Warren Buffett promoting financial literacy for kids. Heyward is also the author of Go Go Gadget – The Creation of Inspector Gadget. Andy's notable work in children's programming has earned him multiple industry awards, and his charitable efforts off-screen have resulted in numerous recognitions. Some of his awards include two Emmys, nine Emmy nominations, two Humanitas Awards, two Cable Ace Awards, five Golden Reel Awards, three Environmental Media Awards, a New York Television Festival Award and a National Education Association Award, among others. He was inducted into the KidScreen Hall of Fame and won the Studio of the Year at Italy's Cartoons on the Bay International Festival of Television Animation in 2006 (co-awarded to Roy Disney). Heyward is a member of the Producers Guild of America, the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, the International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, and the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA). He was the 2010 UCLA College of Humanities Commencement speaker and is currently a Mentor in the UCLA mentoring program. He is active in many community activities, including serving on the Board of Directors of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where he was recently made a Life Trustee. Brian Parisi Chief Financial Officer Bio is available here: https://ir.kartoonstudios.com/management-team

Marti Franks has had a front row seat to witness and be part of union history, whether that was when she helped form the first union for Catholic school teachers in Michigan, when she became part of OEA's landmark work to ensure what are now known as instructional coaches were paid fairly as the professional educators they are, or even now, in her work as an OEA-Retired member advocating for public education and public school educators. In this episode, she shares her thoughts on the importance of unions in advocating for educators' working conditions and the importance of union activism among young educators as they shape the future of the profession.  LEARN MORE ABOUT THE HISTORY OF COLLECTIVE BARGAINING IN OHIO | Click here to listen to a Public Education Matters episode from earlier this season as Ohio marked the 40th anniversary of the law that legally protects collective bargaining for public sector employees taking effect in our state. 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.SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK | OEA members have been weighing in on the Public Education Matters podcast and on podcasts in general to help shape the future of OEA's podcast. More feedback is always welcome! Please email educationmatters@ohea.org or complete the podcast survey here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Marti Franks, Ohio Education Association-Retired memberBorn in Detroit, Michigan, in 1945, Marti spent the first 17 years of her teaching career in a parochial school and the last 27 in public education at Twinsburg High School. She has always been an education advocate. One of the things that struck her as a big difference between the two systems was accountability. She was able to take advantage of so many classes and professional development opportunities through the Twinsburg City Schools that she added 50 graduate hours to her resume. As drama director, her expenses were carefully monitored and every bill was recorded. Classroom records were carefully monitored too. Her sons were educated in the Twinsburg Schools as well, and that is a decision she has never regretted. "Teachers are teachers and students are students. I am still enjoying friendships I made on both sides of the desk. I have had the great privilege of teaching alongside former students," she said. "Education is the most important and gratifying professions on the planet. I have a million stories and some are pretty scary and others will warm the coldest heart.""The system of public education is so very important and we must protect and promote it at every turn," Franks adds. "It is my North Star."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 30, 2024.

Eddie McAllister, facilitator of the Shasta Beloved Community and recipient of the National Education Association's Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award, joins Viva Downtown on the Downtown Discussion Podcast. Eddie discusses the upcoming Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration in Downtown Redding on January 20, 2025, and the shifting cultural climate of Shasta County. He also shares ways to get involved in community organizing and breaking down cultural barriers.Monday, January 20, 2025: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. Schedule of Events: Events: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. • Prayer/Praise Circle/March to Sequoia | 10am Starts at the Shasta County Superior Courthouse - 1500 Court Street, Redding, Ca. A shuttle will be available at 9:30am at Sequoia Middle School for transportation to the Courthouse before the program begins. MLK Celebration Program & Performances/Bell Ringing Ceremony | 11:30am Lunch (provided) & Information Booths | 1:30pmLinks to learn more:Shasta Beloved Community: https://www.facebook.com/SCbelovedcommunity?mibextid=wwXIfrDr. Martin Luther King Jr. 6 Principles of Non Violence: https://civiced.org/six-principles-nonviolenceEddie McAllister recipient of the 2024 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. award: https://www.nea.org/professional-excellence/conferences-events/human-civil-rights-awards-program/winners/mccallisterThank you for joining us on the podcast EddieThe Downtown Discussion Podcast features the people who enhance downtown through social, cultural, and economic development. The podcast is edited and produced by Jacob Akana. 

As chair of OEA's Aspiring Educators division, Kent State University student Kyndal Mickel is a staunch advocate for the needs of other future educators. She's also passionate about making sure she can effectively meet the needs of neurodivergent learners when she becomes an early childhood educator after graduation. As Kyndal shares in this episode, it's a mission driven by the challenges she faced herself as a neurodivergent student in Ohio schools.  SHARE YOUR STORY | As Ohio lawmakers consider a bill to provide financial support for student teachers, it is extremely important that they hear from current and future educators about why this opportunity is so important and the kinds of barriers the current system creates. Click here to share your perspective.AE VOICES MATTER | Aspiring Educator members, click here for links to surveys about yearround organizing and financial supports for student teachers.  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: Kyndal Mickel, OEA Aspiring Educator 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 August 8, 2024.

A lot of people have a lot to learn about what Career Tech Education is and the amazing opportunities it offers for students in Ohio, whether they're pursuing paths to careers, college, or the military. In this episode, the president of the Greene County Career Center Education Association gives us an education on CTE in our state, his path to becoming a Career Tech educator, and what Career Tech educators learned from each other at the first-ever OEA Career Tech Leaders Retreat in the fall. 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.SOCIAL SECURITY FAIRNESS | For too long, the federal Government Pension Offset and Windfall Elimination Provisions of the Social Security Act have unfairly hurt Career Tech educators, who often enter the education profession after private sector careers. At the end of 2024, Sen. Sherrod Brown's Social Security Fairness Act passed in Congress. Click here to read OEA's statement on the landmark legislation. Featured Public Education Matters guest: Doug Picard, Greene County Career Center Education Association President Doug Picard is in his sixth year as a manufacturing and engineering instructor at the Greene County Career Center (GCCC) in Xenia, Ohio. Before joining GCCC, he served 21 years in the U.S. Air Force, where he taught in classrooms, developed avionics test programs, and authored technical policies. At GCCC, his teaching emphasizes human-centered design and adaptive technologies to support underrepresented communities. Picard has also collaborated with the University of Dayton and Central State University as a research mentor for their Global STEM Research Experience for Teachers where he studied engineering in developing areas in Ecuador and India. Over the next three years, he will work with these universities, along with Wright State University, on a National Science Foundation-funded Research Experience for Teachers focused on electronics and semiconductors.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 October 14, 2024.

2024 marks 40 years since Ohio's collective bargaining law took effect. Before that, public employees, including educators, could face jail time for going on strike, and the so-called professional agreements they had been able to negotiate with school districts didn't carry much weight. All of that changed with a stroke of Gov. Richard Celeste's pen in 1983, with the law taking effect the following year. OEA-Retired member Bill Lavezzi shares his memories of working in Ohio schools before and after the legal protections that were granted under Ohio's collective bargaining law. 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.Important Moments in Ohio's Collective Bargaining History:1947 - Hagerman DecisionOhio Supreme Court case regarding dues checkoffSpoke in “strident terms” against public sector bargaining“[unions] have no function which they may discharge in connection with civil service employees"Deemed it was improper for a public entity to delegate authority to another entity (including a union)1947 - Ferguson ActBanned public employee strikes and expressly allowed discipline, including termination, for participating in a strike1958 - Voters reject a right-to-work amendment to the Ohio Constitution1959 - The Ohio legislature authorizes union dues checkoff, which nullifies part of the Hagerman Decision1975 reversal of the Hagerman DecisionThe Dayton Classroom Teachers Association won an Ohio Supreme Court case, which stated that a "board of education is vested with discretionary authority to negotiate and to enter into a collective bargaining agreement..."1975 - Gov. James Rhodes vetoes the first public sector bargaining bill1977 - Gov. James Rhodes vetoes the second public sector bargaining billBetween 1978 and 1980, there were 183 public sector strikes1983 - Gov. Richard F. Celeste signs into the law the "Ohio Public Employee Collective Bargaining Act"April 1, 1984 - Ohio's collective bargaining law comes into effect2010 - Senate Bill 5 would have eliminated nearly all collective bargaining rights for public sector employeesOn November 8, 2011, 61.33% of Ohio voters reject SB5 in a veto referendum2018 - Janus v. AFSCME US Supreme Court decision eliminates agency fees**Information from OEA Collective Bargaining and Research Consultant Eric Watson-Urban. Featured Public Education Matters guest: William Lavezzi, OEA-Retired member Retired English teacher Bill Lavezzi served as president of two OEA locals both before and after enactment of Ohio's Collective Bargaining Law. While teaching, he served in a variety of leadership roles in OEA and the North Eastern Ohio Education Association. Upon retirement, he served as NEOEA's executive director for sixteen years. Bill is a Professional Registered Parliamentarian and frequent presenter on parliamentary procedure. He is a retired delegate to the OEA Representative Assembly and a member of OEA's Convention Planning Committee. When not in a meeting room, Bill is a pianist and cantor at several worship sites in Ohio and participates in local open mic nights, where he is expanding his repertoire of jazz classics and Cole Porter songs.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 23, 2024.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools like MagicSchoolAI, ChatGPT, and others can serve important roles as both a teacher's assistant and a student's personal tutor, but there are important issues like privacy laws that must be considered. Those are just a few of the takeaways from a recent "ONE Beyond the Classroom" virtual PD session on AI and Digital Tools in the Classroom, led by Julia Tilton. The former ONE Member Ambassador-turned-EdTech integration specialist joins us for this episode to offer practical guidance for educators as they learn to use these emerging technologies to best serve their students.  BEYOND THE CLASSROOM | For more information about other upcoming Beyond the Classroom professional development opportunities through the Ohio's New Educators (ONE) department of OEA, click here. GET MORE GUIDANCE | In October 2024, the US Department of Education released a new toolkit for educators regarding AI in the classroom. Click here to read it.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: Julia Tilton, Northeast Ohio Network for Educational Technology (NEOnet) Technology Integration Specialist A former ONE Member Ambassador, Julia now serves in a role of training teachers in educational technology. She was previously a middle school science and STEM teacher, and now is an EdTech session instructor. 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 August 27, 2024.

Senate Bill 295, which is being rushed through the Ohio General Assembly in the final days of Lame Duck, represents a state overreach that punishes communities for their poverty and hurts public school students and educators. Ohio educators must act now to help our lawmakers understand why it must be stopped. OEA's Director of Government Relations joins us for this episode to explain what's in SB 295, and the president of the East Cleveland Education Association explains how SB 295 doubles down on the failed policies of state takeovers under House Bill 290, rather than focusing on the real needs of the students who need the state's support the most. TAKE ACTION NOW | Click here for the OEA Action Alert to help contact your state lawmakers and express your opposition to Senate Bill 295TELL YOUR STORY | Click here to record a short video to share on social media to help Ohioans understand why SB 295 is bad for Ohio's students, educators, and communities. WATCH THE SENATE HEARING | SB 295 got its first, and possibly only, hearing in the Ohio Senate Education Committee on Tuesday, December 10, 24. Watch it here, with discussion on SB 295 starting about 24 minutes into the recording.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.  Lillian Tolbert, East Cleveland Education Association PresidentLillian M. Tolbert is a dedicated educator with over three decades of service in the East Cleveland City Schools. A proud Shaw High School alumna, class of 1987, she pursued her undergraduate education at Hampton University in Hampton, VA, and earned her graduate degree from the University of Akron before returning to East Cleveland to teach. Lillian has taught grades 4-6 and currently serves as an ELA Instructional Coach and Lead Teacher for grades K-5. As the president of the East Cleveland Education Association, she is a passionate advocate for educators and students. Above all, she is a proud mother to three wonderful children—Arin, Jacques, and Nyzier—who each experienced part of their educational journey in East Cleveland City Schools. Lillian looks forward to continuing her positive impact on the East Cleveland community before retiring in June of 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 December 10 and 11, 2024.

Guest: Meet the Man Who Shaped Your Childhood: Multi-Emmy Award Winning CEO Andy Heyward Kartoon Studios Website: www.kartoonstudios.com Ticker: TOON Bio: Multi-Emmy Award-winning producer, and CEO of Kartoon Studios, Andy Heyward has made more episodes of children's television than any other producer, including Walt Disney. After graduating from UCLA with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy in 1975, he joined Hanna-Barbera as a writer and story editor. During his five years with Hanna-Barbera, he was involved in the development and writing of numerous series including Scooby Doo, Flintstones, Jetsons, Smurfs, Yogi Bear, and Scooby's All Star Laff-A-Lympics. In 1980, he moved to France where he joined DIC Audiovisual, a production company specializing in children's animated programming. In 1982, he co-created Inspector Gadget and during the following years he produced over 5,000 episodes of award-winning children's programs, most of which shows and brands are household names, including Inspector Gadget, The Real Ghostbusters, Alvin and the Chipmunks, Hello Kitty, Sonic the Hedgehog, Super Mario Bros, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Strawberry Shortcake, Care Bears, Captain Planet, Teddy Ruxpin, Sailor Moon, Madeline, Where on Earth is Carmen Sandiego, Liberty's Kids, Warren Buffett's Secret Millionaires Club, Llama Llama, Rainbow Rangers, Stan Lee's Superhero Kindergarten starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, and dozens more. In 1994, he convened the National PTA, National Education Association, UCLA School of Education, and producers from throughout the industry to draft the first voluntary set of program guidelines for children's television. In 1996, he hosted the first meeting between then FCC Chairman Reed Hundt and children's television producers. Today under Kartoon Studios, Heyward produces and licenses brands ranging from Stan Lee Universe, to Baby Genius, to Warren Buffett's Secret Millionaires Club, to Thomas Edison's Secret Lab, to Stan Lee's Superhero Kindergarten, to the recently released Shaq's Garage for the global market. He has also been the largest producer of FCC mandated educational informational programming for children, and has produced hundreds of PSAs promoting child safety, health, exercise, and nutrition. In collaboration with Warren Buffett, he produces the short film which opens the annual Berkshire Hathaway Shareholders meeting, and he co-authored a book with Warren Buffett promoting financial literacy for kids. Heyward is also the author of Go Go Gadget – The Creation of Inspector Gadget. Andy's notable work in children's programming has earned him multiple industry awards, and his charitable efforts off-screen have resulted in numerous recognitions. Some of his awards include two Emmys, nine Emmy nominations, two Humanitas Awards, two Cable Ace Awards, five Golden Reel Awards, three Environmental Media Awards, a New York Television Festival Award and a National Education Association Award, among others. He was inducted into the KidScreen Hall of Fame and won the Studio of the Year at Italy's Cartoons on the Bay International Festival of Television Animation in 2006 (co-awarded to Roy Disney). Heyward is a member of the Producers Guild of America, the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, the International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, and the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA). He was the 2010 UCLA College of Humanities Commencement speaker and is currently a Mentor in the UCLA mentoring program. He is active in many community activities, including serving on the Board of Directors of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where he was recently made a Life Trustee. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/smartmoneycircle/support

Twinsburg High School teacher Daneé Pinckney says she knew she wanted to be a teacher ever since she was a small child, but it wasn't that long ago that she found herself at a burnout point in her career and was considering leaving the profession. Starting an African American literature course for her students and empowering them to be engaged citizens helped reignite her passion. Now, as the 2025 Ohio Teacher of the Year, Pinckney is hoping to help other educators find their passion again while shining a spotlight on what they need to succeed for their students. LEARN MORE ABOUT DANEÉ PICKNEY'S PATH TO HER EDUCATION CAREER | Click here to read the 2025 Ohio Teacher of the Year's story on the Ohio State Board of Education site.   LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DISTRICT TEACHERS OF THE YEAR | The State Board of Education selects the Ohio Teacher of the Year from among the State Board District Teachers of the Year, all of whom are OEA members this year. Click here to learn more about each of these outstanding educators!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: Daneé Pinckney, Twinsburg Education Association member Daneé Pinckney began teaching in Columbus, Ohio after graduating from The Ohio State University. There Pinckney earned her Bachelor of Arts and Sciences in Middle Childhood Education. Later, she realized her passions were more suited to high school, and received her Ohio English K-12 Certification before earning a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction: Educational Technology from Ashland University. Pinckney, currently, teaches 11th and 12th-grade English at Twinsburg High School in Twinsburg, Ohio. Here, she makes a point to constantly search for new opportunities to challenge herself professionally and personally, as evidenced by her creating a senior-level course on African American Literature. The course addressed a need for representation sought by both students and community members. She obtained grant funding to support its implementation enriching educational experiences for all.Using literature as the anchor, she works to encourage students' engagement in community service and activism projects instilling in them a sense of social responsibility and civic engagement. She believes students can change the world “right here and right now.” Believing this to be true, her students most recently collaborated with students in Ghana and led a community fundraiser building global community and empathy. Pinckney's dedication to pursuing personal growth as an educator has earned her recognition as the 2025 Ohio Teacher of the Year, a Master Teacher Finalist by the Martha Holden Jennings Foundation, and accolades such as the 2023 Twinsburg City Schools Teacher of the Year, and a 2023 Fund for Teachers Fellow. 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 30, 2024.

High-impact tutoring has a wide body of evidence to support its efficacy, but how do you know what is and isn't “high-impact”?Is it better to brand yourself as an academic coach or an executive functioning coach?Should “executive functioning” be a class in school, or should it be embedded into all the classes?I invited my colleague David Schipper to episode 191 of De Facto Leaders to ponder some of these questions. David Schipper is the director of Strategic Learning Clinic, a position he has held since 2013. David obtained a B.A. in English Literature from Concordia University in 1998 as well as a B.Ed. in Secondary Education (English and History) from McGill University in 2002. After some work as a local teacher in Montreal, David founded 2Torial Educational Centre in 2007. Aside from his ability to put both parents and students at ease, David uses his clinic's fairly unique approach to help get to the root of students' learning challenges and propose the most suitable remediation to resolve these weaknesses. As a father of two children, David knows how to relate to the concerns of parents and as an experienced educator, thoroughly understands the struggles of students. His passion and dedication to teaching and learning is second to none. In this conversation, we discuss:✅The features of high-impact tutoring vs. traditional tutoring.✅How are “COVID high schoolers” doing now that they're in college?✅Strategies are important, but can you use a strategy without content knowledge?✅Executive functioning in the schools: How should it look across Tiers 1, 2, and 3?You can connect with David on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-schipper-1537972a/You can learn more about Strategic Learning Clinic on their website here: https://strategiclearning.ca/ on their Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/SLCStrategicLearningClinicor on Instagram @strategiclearningclinic (https://www.instagram.com/strategiclearningclinic/)You can find the National Education Association article on High-Impact Tutoring here: https://www.nea.org/nea-today/all-news-articles/high-impact-tutoring, and can find additional research on the impact of High-Impact Tutoring and COVID learning loss here: https://educationlab.uchicago.edu/2024/03/national-study-finds-in-school-tutoring-programs-are-successfully-accelerating-student-learning-reversing-pandemic-era-learning-loss/ We also mentioned Natalie Wexler's work in this episode. You can learn more about her work on her website here: https://nataliewexler.com/Listen to David's previous interview on De Facto Leaders here: https://drkarendudekbrannan.com/ep-162-the-summer-slide-real-phenomenon-or-invented-by-tutoring-companies-with-david-schipper/In this episode, I mention the School of Clinical Leadership, my program that helps related service providers develop a strategic plan for putting executive functioning support in place in collaboration with their school teams. You can learn more about that program here: https://drkarendudekbrannan.com/clinicalleadership We're thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL's comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers' timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments

As the former chair of OEA's Aspiring Educators division and as the current co-president of the Kent Student Education Association, the AE chapter at Kent State, Audrey Sargus works hard to give college students a voice in their current path and in their future profession. Audrey shares her thoughts about what led to her path to the teaching profession and what the future looks like as current and future educators contend with the realities of the public education field today.  SHARE YOUR STORY | As Ohio lawmakers consider a bill to provide financial support for student teachers, it is extremely important that they hear from current and future educators about why this opportunity is so important and the kinds of barriers the current system creates. Click here to share your perspective.AE VOICES MATTER | Aspiring Educator members, click here for links to surveys about yearround organizing and financial supports for student teachers.  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: Audrey Sargus, Kent Student Education Association president Audrey Sargus is a senior at Kent State University majoring in Middle Childhood Education with concentrations in Language Arts and Social Studies. Outside of her studies, she is the president of the Kent Student Education Association, as well as the former OEA Aspiring Educators chairperson. Within her chapter and OEA Aspiring Educators, Audrey has worked with teams to plan conferences for students across the state of Ohio connecting future leaders to a network of educators. Audrey and her colleague also have presented at conferences on Chapter Foundations - how to grow membership and keep students active within your local university. 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 August 8, 2024.

Rob McFee is no stranger to leadership. Before assuming his new role as Ohio Education Association Secretary-Treasurer in July, 2024, he served in every role from president of the Willoughby-Eastlake Education Association to NEOEA president to a member of the State Teachers Retirement System Board of Directors, and many roles in between. In this episode, Rob McFee looks back at some of the pivotal moments that shaped his journey from being a math teacher in northeast Ohio to being an OEA officer helping amplify the advocacy of educators across the state. He also discusses the challenges and opportunities he has found so far in this new chapter. 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.SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK | OEA members have been weighing in on the Public Education Matters podcast and on podcasts in general to help shape the future of OEA's podcast. More feedback is always welcome! Please email educationmatters@ohea.org or complete the podcast survey here.Featured Public Education Matters guests: Rob McFee, OEA Secretary-Treasurer Rob McFee brings over two decades of dedicated leadership in education and union advocacy to his role as OEA Secretary-Treasurer. While serving as a secondary math teacher in the Willoughby-Eastlake City Schools, Rob has consistently demonstrated his commitment to advancing the rights and interests of both his students and his members.Rob's union leadership journey has seen him wear a variety of hats. Most notably, he served nine years as local president and as the NEOEA President from 2018 to 2022. He has also advocated for members while serving on the NEOEA and OEA Board of Directors, and as a member of the State Teachers Retirement System Board of Directors, including a term as chair from 2021 to 2022. As local president, Rob successfully negotiated multiple contracts and served on various levy committees. He led his local union through significant changes, including the construction of new buildings and the aftermath of a fire that devastated the district's Board of Education Office. His unwavering advocacy for the health, safety, and working conditions of union members underscored his leadership as NEOEA President during the COVID pandemic. Rob believes deeply in the power of collaboration and diversity. For him, leadership means assembling the right team, empowering individuals to succeed, and finding equitable solutions through collective effort.As OEA Secretary-Treasurer, Rob is dedicated to upholding financial transparency and accountability. Working closely with the leadership team, Rob is committed to amplifying OEA's voice in advocating for public education. He believes passionately in racial, social, and economic justice, viewing diversity as a cornerstone of strength within the OEA. Rob's vision for an inclusive education system demonstrates his commitment to ensuring all students and educators have the resources they need to succeed.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 August 21, 2024.

Public school educators are called to the profession by a dedication to serving their students. And, before their careers in the classroom, quite a few teachers served their country in the US Military. But not every veteran-turned-teacher knows their years of service in the military counts toward years of service for a higher initial placement on the salary schedule when they begin working for a school district in Ohio. That can mean missing out on a significant amount of money they should be receiving! Delaware City Education Association Member Josh Caslow shares his story of getting the credit he was owed for his time in the Army and National Guard, and his message to other veterans in the education profession.KNOW THE LAW | Under Ohio Revised Code Section 3317.13 (Minimum Salary Schedule for Teachers), "years of service" includes: "All years of active military service in the armed forces of the United States, as defined in section 3307.75 of the Revised Code, to a maximum of five years. For purposes of this calculation, a partial year of active military service of eight continuous months or more in the armed forces shall be counted as a full year." Unfortunately, since there is no minimum salary schedule in statute for Education Support Professionals in Ohio, years of military service does not necessarily impact salary schedule placement. But, just like teachers in Ohio, military veterans who become ESPs have the ability to purchase service credit in SERS/PERS, and also have licensure fees waived, if applicable to their position. GET HELP | If you are an educator who previously served in the US Military, and you think you should have been credited for years of service that you have not received, please contact your Labor Relations Consultant. 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: Josh Caslow, US Army Veteran, Delaware City Education Association member"I've been an educator for the last 11 years, teaching grades 5, 6 and 7 math to students at all ability levels.  Prior to education, I served in the United States Army for 6 and a half years, half being active duty and half in the Ohio National Guard.  I have two children, 10 and 13, that I raise with their bonus mom, Natalie Geer."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 10, 2024.

Rep. Sean Patrick Brennan (D-Ohio District 14) says being a voice for Ohio's educators in the statehouse has been one of the greatest honors of his life. The OEA-Retired member taught in Parma City Schools right up until went to the Ohio House after winning election in 2022. Now, as the OEA member-recommended candidate seeks another term in the General Assembly, Rep. Brennan is reminding educators across Ohio that their voices are crucial in this election. He joins us for this episode to share his thoughts about what he has achieved in office so far, and what he still is working to do, including securing financial support for student teachers, among other aims.  LEARN MORE ABOUT WHERE REP. BRENNAN STANDS | Visit brennanforohio.com to learn more about Rep. Sean Patrick Brennan's campaign for re-election and where he stands on the issues. Click here to read why Cleveland.com/The Plain Dealer have endorsed Rep. Brennan for re-election. It reads, in part: "The residents of the Ohio House District 14, which comprises Parma, Parma Heights and parts of Old Brooklyn and Brooklyn Centre in Cleveland, have a treasure in Rep. Sean Patrick Brennan. If they are wise, they will send him back to Columbus for a second term."MAKE A PLAN TO VOTE | Election Day is November 5, 2024. Now is the time to make your plan to vote, whether early in-person at your county board of elections location beginning October 7th, absentee by mail, or in-person on Election Day at your local polling location. Early in-person voting ends November 3. Mailed absentee ballots must be postmarked by November 4. Check your voter registration and find your local polling place at VoteOhio.govSUBSCRIBE | 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.SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK | OEA members have been weighing in on the Public Education Matters podcast and on podcasts in general to help shape the future of OEA's podcast. More feedback is always welcome! Please email educationmatters@ohea.org or complete the podcast survey here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Ohio Rep. Sean Patrick Brennan, D-District 14State 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.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 and Soviet 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.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, Brennan has completed more than 110 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 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.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 posi...

The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 educators across the state, across a wide variety of professional paths and in every stage of their careers. One of the big benefits of membership is having OEA's assistance in bargaining the strongest contracts possible to create the best learning and working conditions possible for everyone. In this episode, OEA Collective Bargaining and Research Consultant Eric Watson-Urban offers his wisdom on the PUMP Act, continuing contracts, and 403(b) special pay plans, three important areas where the law intersects with potential contract provisions and the language every Local bargaining team should be aiming to include in any future agreement. CHECK OUT THE CHANGES TO OHEA.ORG | OEA just launched the much-anticipated redesign of its website. It is easier to navigate and integrates more seamlessly with the My OEA app than ever before. Take a look for yourself at www.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, 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.SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK | OEA members have been weighing in on the Public Education Matters podcast and on podcasts in general to help shape the future of OEA's podcast. More feedback is always welcome! Please email educationmatters@ohea.org or complete the podcast survey here.Featured Public Education Matters guests: Eric Watson-Urban, OEA Collective Bargaining and Research Consultant Eric Watson-Urban is an experienced negotiator with over two decades of service to the members of the Ohio Education Association (OEA). In his role, first as a Labor Relations Consultant and now as a Collective Bargaining and Research Consultant, Eric has successfully negotiated over 100 public and private sector collective bargaining agreements, demonstrating his knowledge in navigating complex labor negotiations and advocating for fair and equitable working conditions for union members.In addition to his work at the OEA, Eric serves as the Treasurer of his union, the National Staff Organization (NSO), where he manages the day-to-day financial operations and contributes, along with his fellow Executive Committee members, to the strategic direction of the union. His dual roles underscore his deep commitment to supporting labor unions at the local, state, and national levels.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 August 21, 2024.

Dr. Chris Orban, a physics professor at the Ohio State University, is running to represent District 6 on the State Board of Education because he wants to give educators a voice in policymaking in Ohio and work to return academic standards to the Board's purview. Dr. Orban has already played a big role in changing the public education landscape in Ohio, though, through his work to transform the way math is taught in our state and expand access to discrete math and computer science curriculum for Ohio students. Dr. Orban joins us for this episode to discuss his work and his vision for the future. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CANDIDATE | Click here to visit Dr. Orban's campaign website to learn more about his qualifications, platform, and more.MAKE A PLAN TO VOTE | Election Day is November 5, 2024. Now is the time to make your plan to vote, whether early in-person at your county board of elections location beginning October 7th, absentee by mail, or in-person on Election Day at your local polling location. Check your voter registration and find your local polling place at VoteOhio.govFIND THE OEA MEMBER RECOMMENDED CANDIDATES ON YOUR BALLOT | OEA members, go to ohioballot.com to see which pro-public education, pro-labor candidates are up for election in your voting district this year. OEA members who live in the State Board of Education's District 6 can learn more about Dr. Chris Orban and his campaign here. 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.SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK | OEA members have been weighing in on the Public Education Matters podcast and on podcasts in general to help shape the future of OEA's podcast. More feedback is always welcome! Please email educationmatters@ohea.org or complete the podcast survey here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Dr. Chris Orban, Running for Ohio State Board of Education, District 6"I am a physics professor at Ohio State University. My father grew up near Cleveland and his father worked at a unionized Republic Steel plant for most of his life. My mother graduated high school in Wooster and my parents met in the marching band at Ohio State. Teaching is a frequent occupation in my family. My mother and brother are music teachers. My aunt taught art and on my wife's side of there are English and ESL teachers and my father-in-law is an ethics professor.My wife Julia and I have been married for 15 years and we have an adorable 3-year-old daughter, and two grown godchildren who lived with us in a “kinship care” arrangement when they were younger. Our experience helping to raise our godchildren opened our eyes to the struggles that students of color face in general and in the school system in particular. My wife and I have lived in the Weinland Park neighborhood for about 18 years.Julia and I are active members of a progressive and multi-racial Methodist church in the north Linden neighborhood in Columbus. My wife helps connect people in our community to resources including rental assistance and utilities programs. I often lead worship at our services where we sing a mix of traditional Methodist hymns and black gospel music.Although I have a reputation for being knowledgeable in science, computer science and math, I love to write and no small part of my success in life thus far has been in using writing to communicate my ideas to other people (and to funding agencies!). No matter how specialized the workforce becomes, I still believe it is important to be a well-rounded person and I am grateful to all the English and music teachers I had growing up."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 5, 2024.

Sheri Few is president and founder of United States Parents Involved in Education.Sheri described United States Parents Involved in Education as a coalition of states that have banned together to fight the indoctrination taking place in government schools. Their mission is to end the U.S. Department of Education and all federal education mandates. The reason they've chosen this as their mission is because they understand that most of the nefarious pedagogies originate from the federal government and they're incentivizing federal dollars. If schools don't comply with this leftist agenda, they threaten to withhold funding. Part of the problem, as Sheri noted, is that the Biden/Harris administration believes that children belong to the community. She believes children are a gift from God to the parents and thus no one else has any authority over those children.She sees an intentional agenda where children are taught lie after lie. Whether it's Mao or Hitler, such leaders understand that if they can control the minds of youth, they can change the future direction of the nation.Review this edition of Crosstalk to hear more on this issue including:How does the National Education Association factor into this?What is taking place in classrooms across America as it relates to Title IX?A protest related to a girls soccer team that had a biological boy on it in New Hampshire. School backlash to a silent protest by parents resulted in parents filing a lawsuit against the school district saying that their 1st Amendment rights were violated.Should parents simply remove their girls from sports where biological boys are allowed?What is "Gender Dysphoria"?

Sheri Few is president and founder of United States Parents Involved in Education.Sheri described United States Parents Involved in Education as a coalition of states that have banned together to fight the indoctrination taking place in government schools. Their mission is to end the U.S. Department of Education and all federal education mandates. The reason they've chosen this as their mission is because they understand that most of the nefarious pedagogies originate from the federal government and they're incentivizing federal dollars. If schools don't comply with this leftist agenda, they threaten to withhold funding. Part of the problem, as Sheri noted, is that the Biden/Harris administration believes that children belong to the community. She believes children are a gift from God to the parents and thus no one else has any authority over those children.She sees an intentional agenda where children are taught lie after lie. Whether it's Mao or Hitler, such leaders understand that if they can control the minds of youth, they can change the future direction of the nation.Review this edition of Crosstalk to hear more on this issue including:How does the National Education Association factor into this?What is taking place in classrooms across America as it relates to Title IX?A protest related to a girls soccer team that had a biological boy on it in New Hampshire. School backlash to a silent protest by parents resulted in parents filing a lawsuit against the school district saying that their 1st Amendment rights were violated.Should parents simply remove their girls from sports where biological boys are allowed?What is "Gender Dysphoria"?

Rep. Justin Pizzulli (R-District 90) draws on his experience growing up in Appalachia to guide his work in the Ohio House. In his work on the Primary and Secondary Education Committee, he has been proud to be a strong advocate for the needs of Ohio's rural public schools, especially. And, he has continued to stand up for public education and educators across Ohio, and against attacks like Senate Bill 83, despite huge pressure from his colleagues in the General Assembly. OEA members are recommending Rep. Pizzulli for re-election because of his record as a pro-public education, pro-labor leader. As Rep. Pizzulli tells us in this episode, he's focused on the big picture for Ohio. LEARN MORE ABOUT WHERE REP. PIZZULLI STANDS | Visit www.justinforohio.com to learn more about Rep. Pizzulli's campaign for re-election and where he stands on the issues.MAKE A PLAN TO VOTE | Election Day is November 5, 2024. Now is the time to make your plan to vote, whether early in-person at your county board of elections location beginning October 7th, absentee by mail, or in-person on Election Day at your local polling location. Check your voter registration and find your local polling place at VoteOhio.govSUBSCRIBE | 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.SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK | OEA members have been weighing in on the Public Education Matters podcast and on podcasts in general to help shape the future of OEA's podcast. More feedback is always welcome! Please email educationmatters@ohea.org or complete the podcast survey here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Ohio Rep. Justin Pizzulli, R-District 90State Representative Justin Pizzulli was recently appointed State Representative for the 90th Ohio House District, which encompasses all of Scioto and Adams Counties, as well as parts of Brown County.  His priorities are protecting the sanctity of life, protecting Ohioans' second amendment rights, and promoting economic growth and prosperity.Outside of his role as State Representative, Rep. Pizzulli works as a realtor in Wheelersburg and as a Class 1 Commercial Freight Conductor in Portsmouth. He also has a packed resume of campaign and management experience. His previous experience and current careers allow him to bring a unique perspective to the table as an elected official and better represent the people of the 90th House District. Rep. Pizzulli lives in Franklin Furnace and in his free time, he is probably enjoying a movie.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 5, 2024.

About one in every 100 Ohioans is an OEA member. That is a lot of power to shape the future of public education in our state if we use our united voices at the ballot box to support the best pro-public education, pro-labor candidates on Election Day. Rep. Joe Miller is a former teacher who is steadfast in his support of public education, and the OEA members say he is the best person to represent District 53 in the Ohio House in the next General Assembly. In this episode, Rep. Miller shares his goals for supporting public education in his next term.LEARN MORE ABOUT WHERE REP. MILLER STANDS | Visit www.joemillerforohio.com to learn more about Rep. Miller's campaign for re-election and where he stands on the issues. MAKE A PLAN TO VOTE | Election Day is November 5, 2024. Now is the time to make your plan to vote, whether early in-person at your county board of elections location beginning October 7th, absentee by mail, or in-person on Election Day at your local polling location. Check your voter registration and find your local polling place at VoteOhio.govSUBSCRIBE | 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.SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK | OEA members have been weighing in on the Public Education Matters podcast and on podcasts in general to help shape the future of OEA's podcast. More feedback is always welcome! Please email educationmatters@ohea.org or complete the podcast survey here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Ohio Rep. Joe Miller, D-District 53State Representative Joe Miller proudly serves Lorain County, where he grew up and attended Marion L. Steele High School in Amherst. After working his way through Lorain Community College and earning his Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Bowling Green State University, Joe furthered his education with two graduate degrees from Ashland University: a Master of Education and a Master of Arts in American History and Government.Joe's diverse professional background spans both public and private sectors. He has experience as a teacher and coach in, an Associate Director of Planning at a design build firm, and a general manager in a print production office—roles that provided him with deep insights into the challenges facing Ohio businesses.Motivated by the events of September 11th, Joe returned to education, teaching at both high school and college levels. He is also a certified USGTF Professional Golf Instructor, an OHSAA Basketball Official, and an active volunteer in his church and community. Joe lives in Amherst with his wife Kelly, also an educator, their two sons, Joseph and Jordan, and their bulldog, Heisman.As a dedicated advocate for quality education, job creation, renewable energy, and veterans' support, Joe is committed to driving meaningful change. He champions a new, equitable school funding model that involves local stakeholders and meets the needs of 21st-century learners.Throughout his tenure representing the Lorain County in the Ohio House District, Joe pushed for legislation that revitalized the local economy, promoted green energy, honored veterans, and reinstated local control in Lorain City schools. He has been a vocal leader in the fight against the opioid crisis and a staunch defender of women's rights and reproductive care. Joe Miller envisions Ohio as a leader in innovation, job creation, and sustainability—a prime place for working and raising a family.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 August 28, 2024.

Ohio's public school educators work hard for their money. It's no surprise that a lot of educators have said they're interested in learning more about how they can get the most bang for their buck to save more of what they've earned. In this episode, Guy Kendall-Freas delivers the deals, and shares the details about the NEA Member Benefits savings OEA members can't afford to miss.SAVE MONEY | To check out all of the deals and services that are available through NEA Member Benefits for OEA members and their families, visit neamb.com today.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.SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK | OEA members have been weighing in on the Public Education Matters podcast and on podcasts in general to help shape the future of OEA's podcast. More feedback is always welcome! Please email educationmatters@ohea.org or complete the podcast survey here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Guy Kendall-Freas, NEA Member Benefits Guy Kendall-Freas is an Affiliate Relations Specialist for NEA Member Benefits where he has been employed since 1996.  A former special education teacher, Guy was also a union leader in his local, district and state Association during his 12 years in the classroom. In addition, he served the Ohio Department of Education in various capacities, including serving on the Committee charged with Revision of Rules for Special Ed Services and as one of the first practicing teachers trained as Entry Year Teacher Assessors.  Working from the NEA Member Benefits Regional Office in Mansfield, Ohio, Guy serves members and locals in Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia.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 August 21, 2024.

Public K12 education in the United States has become the largest government-controlled monopoly in the world, (other than the CCP controlled monopolies in China), spending nearing $1 trillion per year.  And for all the money spent, it's been a failure. In international tests, American eighth graders score 9th in reading, 16th in science, and 34th in math.  With few other options granted other than attending their residentially assigned district public school most Americans cannot conceive that there are other alternatives to educate their children. School reform efforts are ferociously resisted by the education monopoly.  It's not just teachers unions and school boards. It's the curriculum developers, the textbook publishers, consultants, the teachers colleges. The list goes on and on. Schools and school administration are also the largest source of patronage for big city, mayors, and governors in every state. They are not going to give up control of this.  But the dynamics may be changing.  What happened during COVID, and the prolonged school closures, was a great parent awakening.  Parents had a front row seat into their child's classroom and they were able to see what was being taught as well as what wasn't being taught. They didn't like what they saw, and now millions are beginning to explore and create other ways to educate their kids. The person to talk with about this movement is Dr. Keri D. Ingraham Director of the Discovery Institute's American Center for Transforming Education.  She is also a Senior Fellow at Independent Women's Forum. Here is what we agree on.  We need to create new types of schools from the ground up. There are new, more effective ways to teach our kids. Let the old institutions atrophy and die out. Some Key Takeaways: The fastest, most effective way to reform K12 public education is to allow families to exit the system. 03:24 Public school education's roots are in the progressive era in the 19th Century. 6:29 On the world stage US students are not competitive. 09:07 Critical race theory is embedded in the curriculum 10:09 Progressive bias dominates textbook publishing, college schools of education, and teacher certifications 12:05 The bar is low to enter teacher college programs. It's typically the easiest field to go into within the university. 15:50 Teacher college curriculums ignore subject matter expertise. 16:23 Don Graham, former publisher of the Washington Post and a history major at Harvard, couldn't teach in DC public schools because he didn't have a teaching certificate. 18:12  Is there any examples of a government monopoly or any big bureaucracy that has successfully reformed itself? 20:46 Big cities' schools are among their mayor's largest form of patronage. 12;10 When schools say “We're underfunded. We need more money.” It means the want to hire more non-teaching administrative staff. 24:19 Great books classical education has exploded. 28:26 Do we really need to have kids go to school and sit there for eight hours a day? 29:46 What do you do about the inner city kids that don't have parents that are that involved? 35:29 How do we change the teacher certification rules? 38:42 From the beginning of the progressive era over a hundred years ago, schools were designed to get kids off the streets and under the control of what they then called the “education trust” 40:44 In 1919, the “education trust” advocated taking children from the family into the hands of the custody of “community experts.” 41:37 California's Gavin Newsom recently signed a law saying that schools are not required to tell a parent of their child's gender ideology unless that child gives permission. 42:51 In 1934, the president of the National Education Association, wrote, “we expect to accomplish by education what dictators in Europe are seeking to do by compulsion and force.” 46:02 We're not going to be able to reform the existing public government owned K12 schools. What we can do is to create effective alternatives that are better, cheaper, more humane, and teach good values. And if we create these alternatives, this ends the K12 monopoly. 48:22

Ohio's State Board of Education plays a critical role in the professional live of public school educators, and retired educator Rhonda Johnson says she is just the person to do the work of the Board, representing District 7. In this episode of Public Education Matters, Johnson tells us more about the journey that led her to this campaign, from learning in segregated schools as a child to leading the Columbus Education Association as its president to her ongoing mission to bring more young people of all backgrounds into the education profession.MAKE A PLAN TO VOTE | Election Day is November 5, 2024. Now is the time to make your plan to vote, whether early in-person at your county board of elections location beginning October 7th, absentee by mail, or in-person on Election Day at your local polling location. Check your voter registration and find your local polling place at VoteOhio.govSUBSCRIBE | 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.SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK | OEA members have been weighing in on the Public Education Matters podcast and on podcasts in general to help shape the future of OEA's podcast. More feedback is always welcome! Please email educationmatters@ohea.org or complete the podcast survey here.Featured Public Education Matters guest: Rhonda Johnson, Running for Ohio State Board of Education, District 7Rhonda Johnson is a retired teacher and OEA-R member who has worked tirelessly in the education community for more than 40 years. From 2014--2019, she served as the Education Director for the City of Columbus and ex-officio member of the Columbus Board of Education.  During Rhonda's tenure as a teacher in Columbus City Schools, her love and passion for education led her to be a committed advocate for teachers through numerous leadership positions with the Columbus Education Association (CEA). Among them were Vice President and President, serving members in those offices for two decades.During her presidency, Johnson was a successful and active voice for Columbus teachers and students, both locally and nationally. During her leadership, CEA achieved a number of major educational reform projects, and the union remained in a competitive negotiating position. Johnson represented CEA and the City on numerous boards, councils and panels. She been recognized repeatedly for her work. A native of Tuscumbia, Alabama, Rhonda received a Bachelor's degree at Alabama A&M University and a Master's Degree from The Ohio State University in Business Education. 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 August 20, 2024.

Behind silence over foreign policy at DNC, Democrats prepare escalation of global war / National Education Association union announces deal to end strike by staffers

Today we have an urgent and important conversation with members of the NEA Staff Organization, the union of staffers at the National Education Association, who have been locked out of their workplace by NEA management for the past four weeks. The NEA, representing over 3 million members, is the largest union in the country. Staffers working for the NEA have been bargaining for higher wages and fairer treatment by the union, and have instead been locked out of their workplace after a 3-day ULP strike a month ago. We've brought on former educator Rowena Shurn and national board-certified teacher Ambereen Khan-Baker, both of whom are NEASO members and Senior Policy Program Analysts at the NEA, to talk about the lockout, what it means for a union to engage in union-busting tactics with their own staff, and how NEASO members are keeping each other's spirits up on the picket line. Additional links/info below… NEASO Website NEASO Strike Fund Nation's biggest labor union has locked out its employees for 4 weeks now Union With Labor Dispute of Its Own Threatened To Cut Off Workers' Health Benefits NEA Staffers Locked Out After 3-Day Strike Disrupts Convention, Biden Speech Why Did the National Education Association Just Lock Out Its Own Staffers? Staff Who Disrupted NEA's Assembly Will Be Locked Out of Work Permanent links below… Leave us a voicemail and we might play it on the show! Labor Radio / Podcast Network website, Facebook page, and Twitter page In These Times website, Facebook page, and Twitter page The Real News Network website, YouTube channel, podcast feeds, Facebook page, and Twitter page Featured Music… Jules Taylor, “Working People” Theme Song Studio Production: Mel Buer Post-Production: Jules Taylor

Today we have an urgent and important conversation with members of the NEA Staff Organization, the union of staffers at the National Education Association, who have been locked out of their workplace by NEA management for the past four weeks. The NEA, representing over 3 million members, is the largest union in the country. Staffers working for the NEA have been bargaining for higher wages and fairer treatment by the union, and have instead been locked out of their workplace after a 3-day ULP strike a month ago. We've brought on former educator Rowena Shurn and national board-certified teacher Ambereen Khan-Baker, both of whom are NEASO members and Senior Policy Program Analysts at the NEA, to talk about the lockout, what it means for a union to engage in union-busting tactics with their own staff, and how NEASO members are keeping each other's spirits up on the picket line.Additional links/info below…NEASO WebsiteNEASO Strike FundNation's biggest labor union has locked out its employees for 4 weeks nowUnion With Labor Dispute of Its Own Threatened To Cut Off Workers' Health BenefitsNEA Staffers Locked Out After 3-Day Strike Disrupts Convention, Biden SpeechWhy Did the National Education Association Just Lock Out Its Own Staffers?Staff Who Disrupted NEA's Assembly Will Be Locked Out of WorkPermanent links below...Leave us a voicemail and we might play it on the show!Labor Radio / Podcast Network website, Facebook page, and Twitter pageIn These Times website, Facebook page, and Twitter pageThe Real News Network website, YouTubechannel, podcast feeds, Facebook page, and Twitter pageFeatured Music...Jules Taylor, "Working People" Theme SongPost-Production: Jules TaylorHelp us continue producing radically independent news and in-depth analysis by following us and becoming a monthly sustainer.Sign up for our newsletterLike us on FacebookFollow us on TwitterDonate to support this podcast

Ralph welcomes Jeff Cohen from the activist group “Roots Action,” whose “Step Aside Joe” campaign was years ahead of the curve urging Joe Biden – for many reasons – to keep his promise to be a one-term president. Plus, Harvey Rosenfield, founder of Consumer Watchdog, updates us on how the insurance industry in cahoots with governor Gavin Newsom wants to roll back the immensely successful Prop 103 that over the years has saved Californians billions of dollars in insurance premiums and why this struggle has implications for auto and homeowner insurance premiums across the country.Jeff Cohen is Co-Founder and Policy Director at RootsAction. He is a media critic, columnist, documentary filmmaker, and retired journalism professor who founded the media watch group FAIR—Fairness and Accuracy in Reporting— in 1986. For years, he was a regular pundit on CNN, Fox News and MSNBC discussing issues of media and politics, and he is the author of Cable News Confidential: My Misadventures in Corporate Media.Now, the challenge is reminiscent of Hubert Humphrey and Lyndon Baines Johnson. And when Hubert Humphrey ran for President in 1968—he was LBJ's Vice President—he had to face the question, is he gonna stay loyal to Johnson's position on the Vietnam War…or is he going to be faithful to his own personal judgment, which was to find a way to get out of the Vietnam War. He chose the former, to be loyal—he didn't distance himself—and he lost the election.Ralph NaderYou have all of these constituencies that want a change in policy…The base of the party is for peace and social justice. Not for continual expansion of the military budget. People forget that the Democratic platform in 2020 called for a reduction in military spending, and Joe Biden has increased military spending every year.Jeff CohenWe've organized around that point that if we cut the military budget—which has grown year after year under Joe Biden—and we took that money and spent it on healthcare and housing and education, imagine what a society we would have. If we uplifted working-class people. And when I look at what Joe Biden ran in in 2020—and the promises that were made that have been broken—if he had kept even half of these promises the Democrats would be winning in a landslide.Jeff CohenHarvey Rosenfield is one of the nation's foremost consumer advocates and founder of the advocacy group, Consumer Watchdog. Among many other accomplishments, Mr. Rosenfield authored Proposition 103 that has saved consumers hundreds of millions of dollars in auto insurance premiums. He has also co-authored groundbreaking initiatives on HMO reform and utility rate deregulation and is the author of the book, Silent Violence, Silent Death: the Hidden Epidemic of Medical Malpractice.The insurance industry never stopped fighting [Prop 103]. Even though they lost at the ballot box, they constantly tried to relitigate that election. They couldn't believe that the voters would have the temerity to tell the insurance companies how to conduct business in the state of California.Harvey RosenfieldThis kind of economic blackmail—boycotting state after state in order to up their profits—has worked in the past for insurance companies and this is what they're doing now. And it's easy to predict that as their bottom line improves, as the stock market improves…they'll start coming back into these states with the promise of far higher rates, and things will calm down. But in the meantime, people will have been soaked for tens of billions, hundreds of billions of dollars nationwide.Harvey RosenfieldIn Case You Haven't Heard with Francesco DeSantis1. This week, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu will address the United States Congress for an unprecedented fourth time. According to the Wall Street Journal, presumptive Democratic nominee Kamala Harris will skip Netanyahu's address, but will meet with the Prime Minister – who is wanted on war crimes charges by the International Criminal Court – and is expected to tell him that “it is time for the war to end” and to stop the “suffering of Palestinian civilians.” Harris is expected to take a new foreign policy approach, likely doing away with key Biden administration figures like Jake Sullivan, Anthony Blinken and Lloyd Austin. Jim Zogby, founder of the Arab American Institute, has stated that Harris has shown “far greater empathy for Palestinians than Biden.”2. With Harris taking center stage, the Intercept's Prem Thakker reports that Representative Rashida Tlaib has released a statement saying “I welcome the opportunity to engage Vice President Harris as my team and I work hard to inspire our Democratic base...They want to see a permanent ceasefire and an end to the funding of genocide in Gaza…They want us to fight against corporate greed that wants to eliminate unions and keep our families in the cycle of poverty. I am eager to speak to Vice President Harris about all of these issues and more.” Unlike other prominent progressive lawmakers – such as Bernie Sanders and AOC – Tlaib did not back Biden against the campaign to have him step aside as the Democratic nominee, and crucially, appears to be using whatever leverage she has to demand Harris push vigorously for a ceasefire in Gaza.3. The New York Times reports several major unions – including the The American Postal Workers Union, the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, the Service Employees International Union, United Auto Workers, United Electrical Workers, and the National Education Association, the largest union in the U.S. – have sent a letter to the Biden Administration demanding they “halt all military aid to Israel.” This letter emphasizes that “it is clear that the Israeli government will continue …until it is forced to stop,” and that “Stopping US military aid to Israel is the quickest and most sure way to do so.” APWU President Mark Dimondstein said in a statement “Our unions are hearing the cries of humanity as this vicious war continues…Working people and our unions are horrified that our tax dollars are financing this ongoing tragedy.”4. Reuters reports that in talks hosted in China this week, “Palestinian rivals including Hamas and Fatah agreed to form a unity government.” Al Maydeen reports “The meetings saw the participation of 14 Palestinian factions, including Fatah, Hamas, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, and the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine.” The so-called Beijing Declaration promises to “end the Palestinian national division [and] unify national efforts to confront…[Israeli] aggression and stop the genocide.” Implementation of this agreement will be monitored by Egypt, Algeria, China, and Russia.5. In the United Kingdom, “Five climate activists who planned a protest to cause gridlock and block traffic over four days on a major highway circling London were sentenced…to as much as five years in prison,” per ABC. Just Stop Oil, the group planning the protest, “called the prison terms ‘an obscene perversion of justice... for nothing more than attending a Zoom call.'” Protesting this decision, many prominent climate activists – ranging from Independent MP Jeremy Corbyn to Rowan Williams, Former Archbishop of Canterbury to musician Brian Eno – have signed a letter calling this “one of the greatest injustices in a British court in modern history…making a mockery of the right to a fair trial.” This letter also notes that these sentences are “higher than those given to many who commit serious sexual assault.” This letter also cites the United Nations special rapporteur on environmental defenders, who called this “a dark day for peaceful environmental protest, the protection of environmental defenders and indeed anyone concerned with the exercise of their fundamental freedoms in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.”6. In more climate related news, in New York City landlords are required to provide heat for tenants in the winter. Yet, there is no equivalent rule for landlords to provide air conditioning for tenants during the increasingly blistering summers. Now, Gothamist reports New York City Councilmember Lincoln Restler of Brooklyn plans to introduce a bill “requiring [landlords] to ensure tenants can cool their homes to at least 78 degrees when it is 82 degrees or warmer during the summer.” Restler is quoted saying “Heat is the number one climate or weather-related killer – not just nationally, but right here in New York City…We've already suffered three awful heat waves this summer. Can you imagine what it's like to try to manage it without air conditioning or any cooling device in your apartment?” This move comes amid other attempts to legislate heat protections as temperatures continue to rise.7. In an infuriating example of corporate greed, the Guardian reports that pharmaceutical giant Gilead is charging outrageous prices for a new drug described as “the closest we have ever been to an HIV vaccine.” According to this report, “Lenacapavir, sold as Sunlenca…currently costs $42,250 for the first year…[yet] In a study…experts calculated that the minimum price for mass production of a generic version…allowing for 30% profit, was $40 a year.” This report continues “Given by injection every six months, lenacapavir can prevent infection and suppress HIV in people who are already infected…In a trial, the drug offered 100% protection to more than 5,000 women in South Africa and Uganda.”8. In a welcome check against corporate greed, the Federal Communications Commission has “voted to end exorbitant phone and video call rates that have burdened incarcerated people and their families fordecades.” The new rules will cap the cost of a 15-minute phone call at 90 cents for large jails and $1.35 for small ones. As of now, a 15-minute phone call can cost as much as $11.35 in a large jail and over $12 in a small one. The new rules also bar added fees.9. In more positive regulatory news, the Federal Trade Commission has “issued orders to eight companies offering surveillance pricing products and services that incorporate data about consumers' characteristics and behavior. The orders seek information about the potential impact these practices have on privacy, competition, and consumer protection.” The companies in question include Mastercard, JPMorgan Chase, and perennial corporate malefactor, McKinsey. Indicating the universality of this move, no more than 3 members of the FTC can be of the same party yet the Commission voted 5-0 to issue these orders.10. Finally, in some local news, NBC4 Washington reports that “Former President Donald Trump has threatened a federal takeover of Washington, D.C., if he wins a second term in November.” Leaving aside the ever-present bluster and bombast that accompany such Trump pronouncements, NBC4 makes the crucial point that because D.C. lacks statehood “The president can take over the police department and many of the powers the mayor and D.C. Council have.” In light of this credible threat, it is more critical than ever that Congress act on D.C. Statehood and end the unjust status quo of taxation without representation.This has been Francesco DeSantis, with In Case You Haven't Heard. Get full access to Ralph Nader Radio Hour at www.ralphnaderradiohour.com/subscribe