NCSPA Newsletter Article

The legislature convened 12:00 Noon, on January 28th. Our Lobbyist, Steve Shaber talked to Representatives Rick Glazier, Doug Youngue, and Maggie Jeffus, who all have shown us support in the past. While we are not sure exactly who will sponsor our bill this session, we plan on reintroducing the bill in conjunction with NCAE. The bill, an act to establish a salary schedule rate increase for certified personnel of the public school who are paid on the advanced degree (sixth year) or doctorate degree salary schedule, will be pursued despite the projected 2 billion dollar state budget shortfall. We are staying positive, while recognizing that this will be a difficult year not only for state institutions, but also for those of us who are paid by those institutions. Stay tuned, and read our Legislative Blog, accessible through the NCSPA website to obtain the most up to date information as the 2009 legislative session gets underway.

In other news, the legislative and public policy committee needs your help. If you are interested in making contacts with your legislators or being involved in the exciting changes facing our profession, please contact Chris Tufts, ctufts@wcpss.net. As a profession, we have a great deal to offer our legislators, who are concerned about the future and welfare of the students in our schools. They want to hear from us on issues that we know about.