today @ msea

2013 August Rally "Active Cultures" - August 6 & 7  

We are all connected through the increasing globalization of communications, trade and labor practices.  Changes in one part of the world affect people everywhere and cultural differences can at times be confusing and stressful.  Members attending the August Rally will improve their "cultural competency" skills so that we can work together, understand each other and be the BEST team ever!  Registration deadline:  July 15.  Space is limited, so register today!

MSEA Delegate Assembly - April 19 & 20

This year, Mother Nature may have slowed us down - but she didn't KEEP us down!  Unfortunately a number of members were unable to travel due to the "winter" storm, resulting in a slightly lower than average attendance. Regardless, members were kept busy attending workshops and debating resolutions as well as filling seven Board of Director seats.

We had a festive Caribbean theme where members went all out, perhaps in an attempt to forget the chilly reality outside.  Units, members and staff were recognized for their achievements over the past year; an impressive reminder of the dedication and talent within MSEA.

Congratulations also to MSEA's 2013 Sue Ezell Leadership Award recipient Terri Laudenbach (Sartell) for her advocacy and committment to keeping her unit strong.  We rounded out the evening with cool doorprizes and comedian C. Willi Myles, who helped us laugh at the weather - and ourselves.  Check out what else you missed!

22 Little Falls Paraprofessionals Accredited by the State

Twenty-two of the 60 Little Falls paras were recently accredited by the state of Minnesota.  It was a nine-year journey, but worth it, said Cindi Trettel.  

front:  Kathy Crocker, Nancy Sanoski, Cindi Trettel, Denise Guck, Annie Mrozek,

Kelly Conrad.  middle:  Lora McChesney, Brenda Bergman, Sandy Herman,

Mary Skoog, LuAnn Kuesel, Carol Snow.  back:  Renee Tabett, Deanne LeBlanc,

Jackie Kroll, Barb Stavish, Sarah Kronbeck, Carol Meyer, JoAnn Nieman.  

not pictured:  Jeaninie Pantzke, Kristin Lochner, Peggy Parins.

Little Falls requires its paras to be highly qualified.  That means they need at least 2 years of post secondary education, pass the ParaPro assessment test, meet all of the required core competencies and pass a state-approved assessment.  However, the Little Falls paras took it a step further.

Did You Know?

Group Calls for Tax Increases in Minnesota to Boost Local Funding

FARGO FORUM 4.17.13 - After cutting state spending by more than $5 billion over the past decade, leaders of a progressive think tank say it's time for Minnesota to reinvest in communities.  read more (including a quote from MSEA member Linda Pederson, Moorhead)

Sequester Update

Sequestration cuts to education programs including Title 1 and IDEA are now in affect.  Here's what we lose

Crystal Sugar Boycott Continues 

The members of BCTGM locals locked out by American Crystal Suguar for 20+ months recently thanked the pubic for their support and contributions during their struggle for a fair contract.  Sadly, they did not get to Fair.  With no end in sight, a majority of union members voted to end the hurt and accepted management's non-negotiable demands.  The boycott of Crystal Sugar products, however, will continue a while longer.  BCTGM press release

MSEA/SEIU Lobby Day

This year MSEA was excited to team with SEIU for Lobby Day as members shared their stories with their legislators at the Capitol.  Click here to find out what Lobby Day was all about.