democracy in action

This past weekend's spring RA provided me an opportunity to pause and reflect about how the ideas of democracy embodies the governance of MEA. In one sense, the two day RA is democracy in action. MEA members from across the state gather to set a course for the organization in the next year. Officers are elected, actions are taken on business items, budgets are debated and passed, and the current issues are considered. The decisions that these delegates make are done in a way that allows for all voices to be heard. Debate can be spirited and caucus rooms can have some of the political wheeling and dealing that American politics is known for. However, at the end of the debate and the decision is made, members walk away supporting the action that was taken. No longer a member but now as a staff member, I am impressed at how serious everyone takes their job while on the floor. When I was a MEA member, I didn't realize that the RA was even held. Every MEA member should take the opportunity to watch how their organization operates and thank those delegates that sacrifice time from family in order to perform their elected duty. It is truly impressive to see how MEA members care about school employees across the state!

On a final note, I would like to recognize an individual that was important in my professional growth. Don Johnson, president of the Holt EA, will be retiring at the end of this school year. As I moved into the organization, Don was a friend and a mentor. He always knew what needed to be said and when to say it. It was an honor for me to work with him when I was a teacher and now as a staff member.