Saturday, September 15, 2007

Why WEA-PAC Matters and our Local WEA-PAC Drive


In the next few days one of your building reps will be coming around to speak to you about WEA-PAC and asking you to join. This year we have payroll deduction available for $2.25 a month; fill out a form, and you're good to go forever! You can also sign up the traditional way and write a one-time check; either works and is greatly appreciated.

It's been two good years for WEA-PAC. If you remember the bad old days of getting 0%-0%-4%-0%-3%-0% for our cost-of-living raises in a six year period, then you know just how great getting 3.5% last year and 4.2% this year really is. The battle over gainsharing didn't go the way we wanted it to, but getting the retirement age lowered to 62 and allowing new teachers to choose between TRS2 and TRS3 were gains when we could have lost gainsharing and gotten nothing in return.

This year it's a short 60-day legislative session, but with the next gubernatorial election on the horizon and a host of initiatives going on statewide it's also a critical time to make sure the teacher's voice is heard.

The work we do in Olympia is important, and it's your WEA-PAC dues that make that possible. When asked if you'd be willing to join, please give it your thoughtful consideration.

If you have any questions you can contact Ryan, Wendy, or your building rep. Thank you!

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