Going the extra mile

NEA Today, Feb 2003

High-Tech Tactics

Two local Associations are using technology to reach out to current and potential members of the Association.

The Nazareth Area Educational Support Personnel Association in Pennsylvania used a $3,500 NEA ESP Technology Grant to purchase a laptop computer, software, and a printer, which it uses to publish a local newsletter.

The newsletter provides members with job information, Association news, and informotion about members' activities in the community. The newsletter helps increase members' awareness about the benefits of belonging to the Association, says Debra Maher, president of the local. "Better communication leads to a better organization of ESP." she says.

Meanwhile, the Tucson Education Association (TEA) in Arizona used a $3,500 NEA ESP Technology Grant to expand its technology program. Association members Ruth Ar,graves and Jay Adkins, who applied for the grant, have helped the program grow during the past five years.

TEA used the grant to purchase computers and software to use in Association workshops on leadership, politics, and public education. The local also uses the computers to present PowerPoint slide shows at its board meetings and in the district's 100 schools where the local wants to recruit new members. The presentations inform members and potential membars about the benefits of belonging to TEA.

The local also updated its website to enhance communication among members and inform them about activities and training programs.

For more information on NEA ESP Technology grants, visitwww.nea.org/esphome/ members/techgrnt.html. Apply by April 15, 2003, for the 200304 grants.

New Jersey ESP Elected to State Board

New Jersey custodian Lee Flanagan was elected trustee of the New Jersey Public Employees Retirement System last summer. He started his term in September.

Flanagan is a 24-year employee with the Plainfield Board of Education. For five years, he has served as the head custodian of Plainfield High School.

In addition, he is chairman of the NJEA Educational Support Professionals Committee and a member of the NJEA Delegate Assembly. Flanagan also has served on the Executive Board of the Plainfield Education Association since 1991.

NJEA staff and members vigorously campaigned for Flanagan who received 8,345 votes and triumphed over two other qualified candidates.

The nine-member Board of Trustees oversees the state retirement system, approves retirements, and reviews disability claims.