Special Election- Executive Union Representative, Ed Lang has announced his resignation from office effective November 12, 2008. A special election will be held on November 12, 2008 to fill this position. Watch your mailboxes at home for a postcard from the SVFT listing the names of the candidates as they will appear on the ballots. Ballots were distributed to each school this week. Seven members have been nominated and their biographical information is posted on the SVFT Web-site under Members Log-in (click here). You may also read the candidates statements in the October Vocational Instructor (click here).
Retirement Information - Many members have called the office with questions about retirement. We have limited information to share and cannot estimate for you what your benefits might be. The number for State of CT retirement information is 860-702-3490. Or you can visit their web site. Click here
Teacher Certification- The State Department of Education is examining certification regulations for Connecticuts teachers. The AFT placed an article on its website with information about the proposals and a web form where teachers can comment on the certification regulations. Click here for the AFT web site.
Degree Scale Stipend- According to Central Office the degree scale stipends will be in the paycheck dated December 19, 2008. Please comply with the posted application regulations if you feel you are eligible for a stipend.
Political Action Committee- As recommended by the committee and voted on by the Executive Council, the SVFT donations to Connecticut Senate and House of Representatives candidates have been sent. Be sure to VOTE ON 11/4!
School Visits- The SVFT leadership visits are going well. It is always inspiring to visit our schools and see first-hand the wonderful work being done by our members. At Grasso this week we observed the preparations for a scholarship dinner that would rival any five star restaurants as well as the exciting beginnings of their wind turbine incentive. At Norwich we were able to walk through the state-of-the-art new building that our teachers have waited so long for. At OBrien teachers are struggling with the deterioration of their facility while providing engaging, stimulating instruction. In the coming weeks we will be visiting Wolcott, Kaynor, Vinal and Whitney. When asked, most shop teachers and guidance counselors lament the 2-day exploratory schedule as being far too brief to get to know a students talents and for the students to get a realistic feel for the trade. Exploratory teachers are encouraged to gather data on how many students are unable to complete projects. Watch for an article addressing this in the November Vocational Instructor.