May 2012
Dear Members and Guests,
Things are not always as they seem as the saying goes. Believe half of what you read and even less than what you hear. Be sure to check the source of information before you judge the information as credible or factual. These are the lessons we teach our students. Yet even educated adults sometimes accept information at face value.
The MEA election is just such a situation. MEA is a private non-profit organization whose sole purpose is to uphold contracts that are bargained in good faith and protect members rights as well as ensure that a fair due process is employed for all our members.
Internally, the MEA needs to be transparent and members must be informed of the issues within the organization. However, there are times as in any organization whether it be MEA, MTA, City Council, or School Committee, when a closed executive session is necessary to discuss internal issues that cannot and must not be public record due to the sensitivity of the situation or reputation of individuals (Roberts Rules of Order).
The MEA Executive Board are members who give of their time voluntarily for the good of the organization. They are not self-serving individuals who swear blind allegiance to one individual leader, nor should they. Their duty is to govern the organization in accordance of the by laws and policies of the MEA under a code of ethics. If the by laws are silent on specific issues, Roberts Rules of Order are to be followed.
This is what happened in our election process. From the beginning of the election process to the events that occurred on the day of the election, there were significant issues that the Executive Board could not ignore. Contrary to rumor, the revote is not simply one candidate's dissatisfaction with the results. Elections must be clean, transparent and above board. They must have consistency in the process without outside interferences of any kind.
The Executive Board reviewed the results and made their decision based on the facts, not rumors or conjecture. Those who are critical of the process need to reserve judgment until they hear the facts. Members are entitled to hearing the issues discussed in the open Executive Board meeting only. How members receive this information is important because this is a private matter for our members only. Therefore, face-to face conversations will take place in building visitations.
The unity of MEA is critical in negotiations as well as in tackling issues our members face. It is extrememly unfortunate that we are faced with this crisis but the integrity of MEA is at stake. The Executive Board has a responsibility to protect our organization and its members to the best of their ability. The Board is comprised of good honest people who want to do the right thing. As an organization, we are very fortunate to have them.
In solidarity,
Donna Gogas
Methuen Education Association President
MEA Meeting Schedule 2011-2012
All meetings: 3:30-5:00
Light refreshments
All Mtgs. @ MEA Office 184 Pleasant Valley St except General Meetings (see below)
Two General Meetings @ TBA
May
" 5/9 MEA Executive Board meeting @ MEA Office
" 5/11-5/12 MTA Annual Meeting Hynes Center Boston
" 5/15 Mutual Concerns Meeting w/ Administration @ Quinn
" 5/16 MEA Retirement Party
June
" 6/5 MEA Executive Board meeting @ MEA Office
" 6/19 Mutual Concerns Meeting w/ Administration @ Quinn
" 6/29-7/6 NEA Representative Assembly Washington, DC (MEA Handbook had incorrect location)
MEA Retirement Celebration
May 16, 2012 - Retirement Celebration @
DiBurro's 4-7 PM (tickets $20)
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