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President promises a productive year ahead
I am ready for the commitment and challenge as president of the greatest professional teacher organization–the Texas Classroom Teachers Association. When I was installed as president on June 14 and received the box of standard equipment from the past-president, I knew my dream was finally a reality. The integrity and professionalism of each TCTA staff person, under the auspices of Jeri Stone, afforded me the grand opportunity to transition into this position gracefully. My family, district, colleagues and TCTA members from around the state have been very supportive.
How it all began…
As I began my teaching career, I joined TCTA because of its integrity. TCTA met my needs as a teacher in the classroom and responded to my inquiries the same day. Upon applying for a position in business education, I discovered that no positions were available. I immediately inquired about special education certification requirements at Lamar University. During the summer of 1975, I completed my certification, was hired as a middle school teacher and never considered moving from the middle school. Once you become attached to middle school students, it’s difficult to leave them. In earlier years, I imagined that teaching 10 years would be long enough in the classroom. Yet, 29 years later, the light to this candle has not burned out. Working with children is a positive addiction. I love their questions, challenges, responses, creativity, character and even their sense of humor.
The duties and rewards
Last year as president-elect, I was invited to share the legislative update with members of the Baytown CTA and the Gamma Nu Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma in Baytown. I also attended the officer installation and teacher awards banquet of the Lamar CTA and District 1 to update members about the potential impact of proposed legislation. As president, I enthusiastically look forward to visiting all 20 districts. I will be your link to headquarters. I will learn from your concerns and questions. I will also discover the similarities and differences in teaching as well as the variations of educational needs within Texas. I encourage members to always be proactive. Be willing to contact and develop a rapport with your legislators. They want to hear from you. Let them know how you feel about education issues.
Do your part for TCTA
Membership is the driving force that strengthens our organization. TCTA’s new slogan and marketing strategy were presented during the board of directors meeting in June and at regional workshops across the state this summer. TCTA members are motivated, and this will enable us to experience a successful year. If you haven’t done so already, make sure your colleagues are aware of the many benefits of TCTA membership and encourage them to join or rejoin today.
Yes, I will miss the many aspects of the first day of school, such as seating charts, ethnicity counts, attendance, no shows, class supplies, review of class rules and campus rules, hall duty, class tour of the campus, schedule changes, changing classes, cafeteria duty, after-school dismissal, parent pickup of students and bus duty. But I look forward to the many new opportunities and challenges this special year will bring. Dreams do come true. Thanks for your confidence in me. This will be a productive year.
Web posted: 08/27/07
