Welcome to the new MEA Votes Blog!
In this critical election year, the economy is the issue at the top of everyone’s mind. But it's another crucial yet less discussed issue – education – that really drives our economy by preparing students for future careers, encouraging local growth in 21st century jobs, and providing a cost-effective return on all of our tax dollars.
That’s why we’ve launched the MEA Votes Blog, providing a forum for discussion of the key education issues that are part of the political dialogue in our communities, our state and our nation. From how the dropout crisis relates to availability of local jobs, to how the No Child Left Behind law affects students and school employees across the country, the MEA Votes Blog is the place to make your voice heard on the issues you hear about in the school halls and on the campaign trail.
As in the past, this site also provides you with information on candidates recommended by Michigan Education Association members and gives you the chance to get involved in the political process by voting, volunteering or contributing to the MEA-PAC that helps elect friends of public education.
Check back throughout the fall and beyond to engage in the conversation and be an active participant in the intersection between education and politics.
Comments
censorship
I guess you will censor my previous blog
MEA endorses Obama
I am appalled at the notion that the MEA finds it reasonable to think a member such as myself would support Obama.I don't remember anyone from the MEA asking my opinion and that is what is called proper representation. I will never vote for anyone who is friendly with a self proclaimed terrorist as Bill Ayers. Oh by the way i am also retired from the US Navy and was on active duty when those cowards struck. So take your endorcement and choke on it!!!!
Endorsement Process
Thanks for your response to NEA/MEA’s endorsement of Barack Obama.
I just want to share with you the screening process that is used to recommend candidates at the local, state and national level. It is a fair process, with members like you, who serve on a screening committee and who vote on whether or not to endorse a candidate, based on responses to a questionnaire and an interview. The interview includes questions about the candidate’s position on school funding, educational opportunity for all students, curriculum issues, employment issues and his/her support of public education.
If a candidate does not complete a questionnaire or attend the interview, he/she cannot be considered for a recommendation. For your information, Senator McCain did not participate in this process. The only Republican Presidential candidate who participated in the process was Mike Huckabee, former Governor of Arkansas. All the Democratic candidates for President did participate in the process. A recommendation was made to the NEA Representative Assembly this past July by the NEA PAC Committee to endorse Barack Obama for President. It was then voted upon by the more than 8,000 RA delegates who are elected by members.
At the State and Local levels, we have Screening Committees that interview candidates and vote on state and local endorsements. Our interview process, allows member to question candidates on educational and school employment and employee rights issues. Decisions on endorsements are based on the answers they give on these issues and voted upon by members on the committee.
Lastly, I would encourage you to get involved in the process by volunteering to serve on a screening and recommendation committee. Contact your local association president and ask to be considered for an appointment to such a committee.
Linda Myers, MEA Campaign Consultant