NEA Representative Assembly scheduled for July 1-6

The National Education Association Representative Assembly, the NEA's major decision-making body, will be July 1-6 in New Orleans.

"The NEA RA provides an exceptional opportunity for connecting with educators from around the country. The assembly’s work keeps the organization’s foundation in good shape," Education Minnesota President Tom Dooher said. "Sharing and celebrations of good work ensure that building excellence in the profession will continue from our collective action."

All active Education Minnesota members are eligible to run for state credential delegate for the NEA RA. Filings opened Nov. 2 and closed Dec. 11. Elections will take place in local districts Feb. 24-26 and March 1-3 (ballots will be mailed the week of Feb. 8 to all local presidents in elections districts where an election is necessary).

Nominations for state credential student delegates opened Nov. 2 and close Feb. 15. Elections will take place on a date to be determined in April.

Important funding information for state credential delegates
To receive funding, state credential delegates must attend the entire RA, beginning with the first Minnesota caucus meeting on the afternoon of July 1 through the adjournment of the RA the evening of July 6. State elected delegates are expected to attend all caucus meetings and be on the convention floor for all proceedings.

Funding includes the following:

Airfare -- travel arrangements to be made through the designated travel agent and direct billed to Education Minnesota (alternative transportation will be reimbursed up to a predetermined amount).
Half the cost of a double room at the delegation hotel (to be direct billed) for an authorized number of days.
Up to $455 for reimbursement for meals and other convention-related expenses (with receipts).

Delegates are also eligible to claim mileage from their home to the airport as follows:

$15 if delegates live 30 or fewer miles from the airport.
$30 if delegates live 31-100 miles from the airport.
$60 if the delegate lives more than 101 miles from the airport.

No funding is available for Category 2 delegates, those who are retired or inactive members.

Funding to small locals of 125 members or fewer
This program helps locals with 125 members or fewer send a delegate to the RA or AFT Convention. Local presidents will receive information and details regarding how to apply.

November 23, 2009