Important DatesMARCH is Women’s History Month,

National Nutrition Month, Music in Our Schools Month,

Youth Art Month

March 2, 2009Read Across America DayMake up day for snow day

March 2-6, 2009Nevada Reading Week

March 4, 2009CCSD Librarians’ Day

Health Traxx Spring Issue

March 6-7, 2009NSEA Board of Directors Mtg.

March 8, 2009Daylight Saving Time Begins

March 10, 2009CCEA Executive Board Mtg.

March 17, 2009St. Patrick’s Day

March 20, 2009First Day of Spring

March 24, 2009CCEA Association Rep Council Mtg.

March 30, 2009CCEA Express April 2009 Issue

April 1, 2009April Fool’s Day

April 6-10, 2009Spring Break

Vol. 9, Issue 6 March 2009

Inside This IssuePg 2 • My ViewPg 3 • A Word from the PresidentPg 4 • Frequently Asked QuestionsPg 5 • 2009 Negotiations SurveyPg 6 • SSSCU’s Classroom ProgramPg 7 • Promotions & DiscountsPg 8 • Sick Leave Usage 101Pg 9-10 • Resources for March

Celebrations/Observances Pg 11 • Grants & Awards

Transfer Season...To provide opportunities to many

If you want a new challenge, a newbeginning or just a change of sceneryyour chance to transfer begins onApril 1, 2009 (Article 35 of theNegotiated Agreement). Toget a transfer you will haveto be accepted for a job ata different work site.Since this is the voluntarytransfer period you willnot need your currentprincipal’s signature forthe transfer. The processbegins on April 1 with thefirst posting of availablejobs (subsequent postingswill be distributed about every sevenworking days). You will need tocontact the building to get aninterview. Not everyone that isinterested in a position will get aninterview. However, if an interview isscheduled, you should bring a copy ofyour license and any other documents

that will enhance your chances ofgetting the position. It is not unusualfor the principal to have you sign atransfer form at the time of the

interview. Signing theform does not guaranteeyou the transfer. It will,however, save processingtime if you do get thetransfer.

The voluntary transferperiod will continue untilthe end of April. At thattime preparations willbegin for the involuntarytransfer (surplus) meeting.

This takes place in mid-May. Ifinvoluntary transfers will take place atyour building, then youradministrator must have a staffmeeting by April 1, 2009 todetermine who will be involuntarilytransferred. Involuntary transfers

(continues on page 4)

Rallying for Education“Not On Our Backs” the Theme

In spite of a cold and rainy day,hundreds of educators and concernedcitizens rallied on February 7 to showsupport for public education and tovoice the need to protect its funding.“Not On Our Backs” was the themefor the event held at Chaparral H.S.

Speakers included Senator StevenHorsford, Assembly Speaker BarbaraBuckley, CCSD Board of TrusteesPresident Terri Janison, CCSDSuperintendent Walt Rulffes, UNLVChancellor Jim Rogers, and association executivesand governance from CCEA, ESEA and NSEA.

News coverage provided by channels 3, 5, 8, 13,15 and 19 helped raise awareness about the impactthe proposed cuts to education will have.

Join in the ongoing fight to protect publiceducation funding @ www.ccea-nv.org.

Do you havequestionsabout theprocess? Call CCEA @733-3063.

Page 2 • CCEA Express www.ccea-nv.org

“It was the best of times, it was theworst of times; it was the age of wisdom,it was the age of foolishness…” soundfamiliar? These would probably makegood lines for a book, probablysomething by Charles Dickens. Oh, Iguess he already used them. But howcould Dickens have possibly known howappropriate his words from A Tale ofTwo Cities would be to what we facetoday as a society, a community andeven a teachers’ union.

Driving between Las Vegas and LosAngeles to take my son to a footballcamp I had an epiphany somewherearound Barstow. It occurred to me thatwe are going to find out a lot about manypeople we know over the next sixmonths to a year. We already know thatGovernor Jim Gibbons is a myopic,politically inept “leader” who has novision and no political courage. We also have to place aquestion mark by his name when it comes to basic IQ. Thejury is still out on our legislative leaders but what we haveseen so far from Steven Horsford and Barbara Buckley givesencouragement that they may be more than your gardenvariety politician who talks a good game but ultimately bowsat the feet of the Chamber of Commerce and that giant ofliterary power, the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

As I roll on past Barstow toward Victorville, anotherscenic community, I wonder how the worst crisis that wehave seen since the Great Depression will be handled bythose of us who are entrusted to look after the folks who areentrusted with the future of our children. There will be agreat deal of pressure placed on your elected board as wellas your executive director, that would be me, to ask teachersto sacrifice as we have been asked to so many times before.How will we react? I am betting, with some pretty goodinsider information, that we will fight any cuts to the bitterend.

It will be interesting to watch how our new school boardfaces the crisis as well. Will they understand that withoutquality teachers there can be no education? Will they realizethat you can do without the latest programs, computers,chalkboards and even desks but that in the end you need ateacher and a student for learning to take place? Hopefullythey’ll “get it.” And not fold like so many school boards will

and talk about how teachers ought to bethe ones sacrificing for the kids when, infact, it is the teacher all along who isshaping that kid’s future.

I will also be watching carefullyhow our superintendent reacts as everyobstacle is placed before him. As I havesaid before, he has impressed me morethan any superintendent I have everbeen associated with and I am equallyimpressed with his character andconcern for teachers. Obviously, duringthis time many people will belegitimately afraid and will seek shelterwhile some will become passionate inthe fight for our future. And of course,the negative merry band of chroniccritics will again show their true colorslike the old NBC peacock. We will beexposed to the wannabe journalistwhose only claim to fame is his third-

rate and vulgar monthly diatribes in a street stand tabloidmagazine. We will also get to hear from those who lost outon trying to become the new teachers’ union who havealready come out from under the rocks to blame CCEA for the6% cuts (which will not take place) and me for orchestratingthis grand “budget conspiracy.”

The vast majority of teachers will do what they havealways done through generations whenever they arechallenged with tough times—they will buckle up the bootstraps, teach harder than ever before and rally together tosupport the cause of public education. But for some, it willbe the worst of times; for some, it will be a time ofhopelessness and negativity. These will be the prophets ofdoom who are mired up to their necks with issues that willnot allow them to find good in anything or anyone. But formany more it could be the best of times not because thechallenges aren’t real, but because these are the people whoare defined by their response to the challenge. It is duringtimes like these that new leaders emerge and positivechange can be made for future years and, most assuredly,will emerge a new governor.

I have always believed that it is during the difficult timesthat we find out the most about our character and the contentof our souls. We find out a lot about how we were raised andour core values and we get a glimpse as to how others willdefine us. Time will only tell.

“ … I wonder how theworst crisis that wehave seen since theGreat Depression willbe handled by those ofus who are entrusted tolook after the folks whoare entrusted with thefuture of ourchildren.…I am betting,with some pretty goodinsider information, thatwe will fight any cutsto the bitter end.”

My ViewBy John Jasonek, Executive Director

BEST OF TIMES OR THE WORST?

Making my visits across the valley to various work locations,letting members know what CCEA is doing to address theproposed budget cuts, I began to see a pattern of questionsbased on lack of information and rumors. One evening whenI couldn’t sleep I looked at my notes and organized thequestions that had been asked and the answers given, andput them into talking points that were used at the CCEA Rallyand on subsequent school visits. Below you will find that listand information that I hope will help to answer questionsthat you may have or rumors that youmay have heard.

The Collective BargainingAgreement (CBA)• Without CCEA there would be no

contract. • The CBA will be up for renegotiation

in June 2009, the current contract willcontinue in effect until the new one is negotiated.

• CCEA has negotiated a contract with CCSD which protectspay and benefits.

• CCSD has indicated they have a legal obligation to honorthe contract.

• Without a contract you can bet that the district would havebeen forced to make immediate pay cuts, suspension of allstep increases, salary advancements, PERS contributions,insurance subsidies and seniority status.

• CCEA represents ALL certified teachers and that includesArt, Music, PE, Counselors and Librarians.

Job Security• Transfers/surplus will take place as described in the

contract (Article 35).• There is a difference between a Reduction in Force (RIF)

and the surplus of teachers. A RIF means layoffs andsurplus means transfers.

• With 300 to 400 teachers retiring, 500 to 600 teachersleaving Clark County and 300 current open positions, wefirmly believe there will be no RIF.

• Teachers who have a very restrictive or limited license maybe offered the opportunity to keep their benefits whiledoing a long-term sub assignment at their daily rate of payand benefits for three years.

• Surplus at elementary schools is based on district-wideseniority. Surplus at a middle school or high school is bydepartment and is also based on district-wide seniority.

Your Pay and Benefits• CCSD has indicated they have a legal obligation to pay all

negotiated salary and step increases. This includes a

Master’s degree or any other step increases you may becurrently working on.

• Did I mention that without CCEA none of this would beguaranteed?

• Once anyone agrees to give up a benefit, it’s almostimpossible to recuperate that benefit or potential earnings.

Impact of Imposed Budget Cuts• If the legislature cuts education funding and CCSD leaves

our pay and salary advancementalone, then cuts will result in NOsupplies at all, bigger class sizes, andcuts in programs and services.

• Members of the public will accuseteachers of being selfish but theydon’t realize that Nevada has beenbehind the national average fordecades when it comes to fundingeducation and paying teachers.

Failed Tax Structure and Solutions• There is no state income tax, a lost source of revenue.• Inability to raise local and county taxes as they do in other

states.• Majority of taxes based on gaming, sales tax.• Nevada budgets like a Ponzi scheme, robbing Peter to pay

Paul as new residents move to Nevada.• CCEA and NSEA fought to pass the Room Tax Initiative as

an additional source of revenue and developed proposedsolutions to fix the broken tax structure.

• Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce agrees something has tobe done to prevent budget cuts — could this mean thatthey are open to taxes?

The Legislative Fight• CCEA is part of the NSEA Lobby Team — Dane Watson and

I represent your interests in Carson City.• CCEA is communicating with members via CCEA website,

e-mail alerts, video messages, robo calls and othermethods. CCEA’s website contains up-to-date informationon legislation and ways for members to be activelyinvolved.

• CCEA has revived the Legislative Advocate program,pairing up CCEA members with southern Nevadalegislators.

• CCEA will be asking members to contact legislators withspecific messages concerning legislation impacting theirpay, benefits & work environment throughout the session.

• Supporting pro-public education legislation such as theTeacher’s Bill of Rights.

www.ccea-nv.org CCEA Express • Page 3

A Word from the Presidentby Ruben R. Murillo, Jr.

The Facts...

Stay involved! Go to www.ccea-nv.organd sign up to receive

Legislative E-mail Alerts.

Page 4 • CCEA Express www.ccea-nv.org

FrequentlyAsked

QuestionsBy Kathy Foresythe

CCEA Deputy Executive Director - Legal Services

Topic: Early Retirement

Is there currently a negotiated Early RetirementProgram?Yes, Article 18-9 of the NegotiatedAgreement provides for an Early RetirementIncentive Program.

How do I qualify?4 You must have twenty-nine (29) years but

less than 30 years of accumulatedservice time in the Public Employees’Retirement System of Nevada (PERS).

4 You must have been employed as ateacher for at least fifteen (15) years withthe Clark County School District.

4 You must terminate employment with theDistrict at the conclusion of the currentcontract year.

4 You must have one hundred (100) days ofaccumulated unused sick leave.

What is the incentive?If you meet all four criteria, the District willpurchase up to one year of PERS servicecredit, total service including suchpurchase not to exceed thirty (30) years.

Where can I learn more?CCEA, CCSD and PERS will be holding twoinformational meetings regarding theArticle 18 Early Retirement IncentiveProgram. Interested educators do not needto attend both meetings.

When: Thursday, March 19, 2009Times: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.Where: Clark County School District

Edward A. Greer Boardroom2832 East Flamingo RoadLas Vegas, Nevada 89121

If you have any questions or concerns,please call the CCEA office at 733-3063 andask to speak with a UniServ Director.

Note: You can also take advantage of CCSDPolicy 4370: Voluntary Early IncentiveProgram through the end of 2008-09.

Transfer Season(continued from front page)

take place when a building is projected to be overstaffed forthe coming school year. For the purpose of determiningwho will be involuntarily transferred seniority is defined astotal length of service as a licensed employee in theDistrict. On the elementary level the teacher or teachersthat will be involuntarily transferred are the least senior inthe building. On the secondary level the teacher orteachers that will be involuntarily transferred are the leastsenior in the department that is overstaffed. Before theleast senior teacher(s) can be designated for an involuntarytransfer there must be an opportunity for a teacher tovolunteer.

Due to the budget problems in the state of Nevada thereis the possibility that a large number of teachers will beinvoluntarily transferred this year. In anticipation threedays have been set aside for the surplus meetings: May 11,2009, May 12, 2009 and May 13, 2009. Affectedteachers will be notified of the date for their meeting. Theorder of selection of a new position is based upon seniority(most senior selecting first) and area of licensure.

The possibility exists that there will not be a positionfor every teacher. If that should occur then Reduction inForce (RIF) procedures will be put in place. The proceduresare outlined in Article 30 of the Negotiated Agreement andwill be explained in the April edition of the CCEA Express.

There are certain exceptions to the scenarios that havebeen described. To find out more, call your UniServDirector at 733-3063 or e-mail your question touniserv@ccea-nv.org.

Enjoy a LAS VEGASWRANGLERS CCEA Night!

7:30 pm Friday, March 13: Friday the 13th themed jerseys7:30 pm Saturday, March 21: Team card set giveaway7:30 pm Friday, March 277:30 pm Saturday, April 4: Fan appreciation night

Ticket Price:Adult — $12.75

Youth (12 & under) — $7.25

Contact Nick Cappola to place your ticket order.702-471-7825 ext. 228

ncappola@lasvegaswranglers.com

www.ccea-nv.org CCEA Express • Page 5

Teacher Safety

Teachers often discuss issues regarding threats, abuse,and harassment. Furthermore, recent allegations of the

death of a teacher at the hands of a student have raised concerns aboutteacher safety. NRS 388.132 requires schools to provide a safe and respectfullearning environment. This applies as much to students as it does to teachers.There are statutes, school district polices, and contract language to protectteachers from these types of actions.

Article 12 of the Negotiated Agreement addresses teacher protection fromassaults and/or battery. Pursuant toArticle 12-2, when a teacher becomesaware of a potential danger, the teachershould notify their immediate supervisorwho is required to investigate and takeappropriate action. If a teacher isassaulted during the work day, Article12-3 requires that the teacher file awritten report. The teacher can file acriminal complaint against the adult orjuvenile, and the school or department“shall assist and cooperate with theassaulted employee in making his/hercriminal complaint.” Article 12-8.

Significantly, NRS 392.850 requires the school district to inform eachemployee of the district, who may have consistent contact with a student whowithin the last 3 years has caused or attempted to cause serious bodily injuryto any person. Thus, teachers must be informed if one of their students hascaused serious bodily injury to another student, teacher, bus driver, etc. withinthe last three years. This information is important for obvious reasons.

CCSD Policy 5137 provides that teachers have the right to work in anenvironment free from harassment, abuse, and threats from students and otherschool personnel. Policy 5137 makes it clear that harassment and intimidationare prohibited in public schools and that any employee who witnesses,overhears, or receives a report of harassment or intimidation shall report it tothe school principal. If the school principal is the offender, then the reportshould be made directly to the affirmative action officer or superintendent.

In a school setting, principals have the ability to limit parent interactions inorder to protect the employee. For example, the principal can require that allcommunications go through administration in order to protect the teacher andcan even trespass parents from the school. Although this is mostly done inserious cases, there are less intrusive measures that principals can take.

The collective bargaining agreement, Nevada law, and CCSD policies arewritten in such a way to foster teacher safety. There are mechanisms in placeto inform the teacher of potentially dangerous students. If you feel that acertain student may have prior issues, ask your immediate supervisor.Remember, teachers can file criminal complaints against students, parents,visitors, etc. Practically speaking, one should try and have the immediatesupervisor resolve the issue, unless the act is so egregious that additionalsteps should be taken. If you have doubt as to what actions should be taken,call CCEA.

If you have doubtas to whataction should betaken, call CCEAright away @733-3063.

CCEA Express is published September throughAugust by the Clark County EducationAssociation (CCEA), 4230 McLeod Drive, LasVegas, NV 89121. CCEA is affiliated with theNevada State Education Association (NSEA)and the National Education Association (NEA).

The publication’s goal is to keep membersabreast of issues affecting education and toprovide economic benefits.

Ruben R. Murillo, Jr. PresidentRobert Benson Vice PresidentRuby Caliendo SecretaryCassandra W. Bell TreasurerJohn Jasonek Executive Director

Letty EliasEditor

Christine PageContributing Editor

Board Vacancy • CCEA Executive Board - 5AA vacancy for this unfulfilled term wasfilled during the January 27 AssociationRepresentative (AR) Council meeting.

Shirley Webb was declared elected bythe AR Council as she ran unopposed.Shirley attended her first official meetingas a Board member on February 10.

Congratulations, Shirley!

2009Negotiations SurveyAs we embark on what we anticipate to bea difficult negotiations year, the CCEANegotiations Committee would like youropinion and input. As always, all issues willbe considered, but remember that theresponsibility of the committee is toprioritize based on the factual situation andthe limitation by legislation and budgetaryrestrictions.

Visit www.ccea-nv.org and click on the“Your Opinion Wanted: 2009 NegotiationsSurvey” link to complete the survey.Deadline is March 31, 2009.

The Negotiations Committee thanks you fortaking the time to participate!

Page 6 • CCEA Express www.ccea-nv.org

Silver State SchoolsCredit Union;committed to“Financial Solutions– for Life!”Silver State Schools Credit Union (SSSCU) has beenserving its member base… educators, staff,volunteers and their families… since 1951.Nevada’s largest credit union, SSSCU has alwaysbeen involved, as part of its cultural philosophy, inthe commitment to financial literacy. A critical partof that commitment in the communities we serve isreaching out to empower young people withknowledge and financial solutions through financialeducation.

Our mission — to provide ‘Excellent MemberService and Financial Solutions – for Life!” —encompasses a number of benefits for Nevadaschools. One benefit associated with ourexceptional relationship with CCSD is theopportunity for teachers to get involved with ourFinancial Literacy programs. SSSCU recognizes thatthe financial preparedness of our young people isessential to their well-being and of vital importanceto this nation’s economic future. In thesechallenging times it is even more critical forstudents to become financially literate at an earlyage so they will be better able to make decisionsand navigate a complex financial marketplace.

The programs designed and developed bySSSCU are completely free and administered bytrained Credit Union staff. Tailored to any gradelevel, from kindergarten through 12th grade, SSSCUoffers programs as simple as classroom sessions onthe basics of money management, to an entire juniorsavings program. We’ve seen these programs gaintremendous momentum; and in fact, during this pastyear SSSCU has instructed more than 1,500 LasVegas valley students on financial responsibility.

With interactive games and activities for hands-on experience, and age appropriate, free giveaways(piggy banks for younger students, calculators forolder ones), SSSCU’s programs offer a fun andvaluable resource to any teacher who wants tobring financial education into the classroom. Simplepre and post session surveys may also be used tomeasure the students’ understanding andimplementation of good money management.

Silver State Schools Credit Union welcomes theopportunity to discuss any of the programs we canoffer to your educational institution. Contact yourlocal branch manager or Crystal Lyon at (702) 697-8082 or by email at clyon@silverstatecu.com to startyour students on a path to financial success!

www.ccea-nv.org CCEA Express • Page 7

The Educators’ BusinessGuide is now online!Go to the “Member Resources” tab of theCCEA website (www.ccea-nv.org), and selectPromotions and Discounts to access theEducators’ Business Guide icon. Takeadvantage of the discounts and special offersto products and services you use in your

daily lives. Enjoy your $aving$!

Phantom is pleased to present anexclusive offer for members of CCEA.Buy one ticket and receive a secondticket free.

Call 414-9000 or Visit phantomlasvegas.com

Promotion code: CCSDLVOffer Valid March 1- 31, 2009

Offer applies to regularly priced tickets. Must show valid CCEA IDupon ticket pick-up at the Box Office. Offer is subject to availabilityand is not valid with any other offer or for previously purchasedtickets. All sales are final; no refunds or exchanges.

HURRY! Last Show is March 14th

Only $20Offer good March 2-14, 2009

9:30 PM NIGHTLY (dark Thursdays and Sundays)7:30 PM Wednesdays

“Laugh Out Loud” with the SCINTAS at the Las Vegas Hilton.

Purchase tickets at the Las Vegas Hilton Box Officeor call 732-5755. Present your local ID to the boxoffice at The Las Vegas Hilton and tickets are only$20.

• Please arrive 45 minutes before show time.• Tickets subject to availability.

Page 8 • CCEA Express www.ccea-nv.org

Over the course of your career you willlikely have reason to utilize sick leave.What is it and when and how can youuse it? Let’s take a look at what isavailable to you.

Sick Leave DefinedSick leave is paid leave that is granted toteachers by virtue of the negotiatedagreement between the Clark CountyEducation Association and the ClarkCounty School District. It is earned at1.5 days per month, not to exceed 15days per year, to be used by teacherswho are unavoidably absent because ofpersonal illness or accident or becauseof serious illness or accident in theimmediate family. Need to know thedefinition of “immediate family?” Take alook at Article 1-11 of the negotiatedagreement.

It is important to keep track of yourpaid time off (i.e., personal, sick anduniversal) so that you are not caughtunprepared. Teachers who misuse sickleave or are absent without leave aresubject to disciplinary action. Call yourUniServ Director immediately if your sickleave usage is being investigated.

FMLATeachers who have worked for one yearprior to needing access to the FamilyMedical Leave Act (FMLA) can beapproved for up to 12 weeks of approvedleave. The teacher must have “identifiedand substantiated an eligible personalqualifying event or condition.” Onlyteachers who utilize their available sickleave simultaneously are on paid statuswhile on FMLA. FMLA in and of itselfdoes not provide income -- it does,however, protect your position with thedistrict and requires the district to

continue its contribution toward yourhealth insurance.

Other Voluntary OptionsAvailable to Teachers• Sick Leave Pool

Suggested and promoted by members,the CCEA Negotiations Teambargained with the district to createthe Sick Leave Pool giving teacherswith catastrophic illness or injuryaccess to additional sick leave daysabove those they had accrued.Enrollment in the Sick Leave Pool isvoluntary. The open enrollment periodis September 1 through September 30of each school year and is open toany teacher who has accrued six daysof unused sick days as of September1. One sick leave day is deductedfrom each teacher who joins the pool.

Teachers with a catastrophicillness or injury and who have enrolledin the Pool can apply to the SickLeave Pool Committee for days oncetheir own sick and personal leave isexhausted. The Pool is onlyaccessible when the enrolled teacherhas a catastrophic illness or injury.Immediate family members are notcovered under this provision. Lifetimeusage of the Pool is limited to 100 daysmaximum per person.

You need only enroll in the poolonce. If you are not sure if you havepreviously joined the Pool, or if youwould like an application, please callCCEA at 733-3063.

• Short Term DisabilityCCEA has partnered with AmericanFidelity Assurance Company to offershort- and long-term disabilityinsurance. Once enrolled in the plan,

short-term disability insurance canprovide a benefit for an accident orillness which prevents you fromperforming the substantial duties ofyour job. Short-term disability isespecially useful for maternity leavewhich will otherwise only be paid ifyou have accumulated leave time.Short-term disability insuranceprovides up to 66 2/3% of your grossmonthly income and can be used formaternity or other illness or accidentwhich lasts between 15 days and sixmonths. Benefits are not taxable andare paid directly to you so that youcan pay your monthly expenses suchas mortgage or rent, car payments,utilities, etc.

• Long Term DisabilityLong-term disability provides benefitsfor disabling accidents or illnesseswhich last more than 6 months and,for a prolonged disability, can be paidto age 65. This coverage is also non-taxable and can replace up to 66 2/3%of your gross monthly income.Statistics show that one in sevenemployees will be disabled for fiveyears or more before retirement.

Remember: You do not pay into theSocial Security System and there is nostate disability in Nevada; therefore,short- and long-term disability insurancemay be your only source of income inthe event of an unforeseen accident orillness. To be eligible for disabilitybenefits you must be enrolled in the planprior to the disabling illness or accident.Contact American Fidelity @ 433-5333ext. 0 in order to find out more aboutthese benefits.

SICK LEAVE USAGE 101What You Need to Know About Sick Leave

SICK LEAVE USAGE 101

www.ccea-nv.orgBeginning March 8, 2009, the CCEA website will sport a new look. Visit the website during the month ofMarch and enter a raffle when you sign up to receive the Legislative E-Mail Alert. It’s a win-win!!

*If you have already signed up for the Legislative E-Mail Alert your name will be entered automatically.

www.ccea-nv.org CCEA Express • Page 9

In March, Let the Music Ring...Celebrate Music In Our Schools Month!

March has been officially designated byMENC: The National Association forMusic Education for the observance ofMusic In Our Schools Month(MIOSM®), the time of year whenmusic education becomes the focus ofschools across the nation.

The purpose of MIOSM is to raiseawareness of the importance of musiceducation for all children – and toremind citizens that school is whereall children should have access tomusic.

MIOSM is an opportunity for music teachers tobring their music programs to the attention of theschool and the community and to display the benefitsschool music brings to students of all ages.

Activity Ideas for Music In OurSchools Month* Participate in the World's Largest Concert on March

12, 2009.* Make a "Music Month" calendar, and suggest that

students dress for different musical eras. Playappropriate music as students arrive in the morningand at lunchtime.

* Ask the lunchroom to rename itemsusing musical themes such as PolkaPotatoes, Harmonic Ham Sandwiches,etc. Have students suggest these funnames.

* Sponsor a poster or poetry contest.Posters and poems should supportMusic In Our Schools and revolvearound the current year's theme.

* Have a talent show emphasizing music.Tell a story, a joke, or read poetry about music, and be sure to include

traditional acts of singing, playing instruments, etc.* Ask students to draw their favorite musical

instrument, have them design an instrument of thefuture, or bring in homemade instruments for "showand tell".

* Ask students to cut pictures of music andmusicians out of magazines and create a musicalwall collage for your classroom(s).

* Have students list ways in which music is a part oftheir everyday lives. Have them compare lists withfriends and family members.

* Present students with lapel stickers to wear duringMIOSM.

Visit http://www.menc.org/events/ for more ideasand resources.

Page 10 • CCEA Express www.ccea-nv.org

National Nutrition Month® is a nutritioneducation and information campaignsponsored annually by the American DieteticAssociation. The campaign focuses attentionon the importance of making informed foodchoices and developing sound eating andphysical activity habits. Registered DietitianDay, also celebrated in March, increasesawareness of registered dietitians as theindispensable providers of food and nutritionservices and recognizes RDs for theircommitment to helping people enjoy healthylives.

The theme for March 2009 is "EatRight." Nutrition education resources suchas books and publications, classroom activities,meal ideas, interactive quizzes and many othermaterials can be accessed atwww.eatright.org.

2009 Women’s History Month Women Taking the Lead toSave Our Planet

Each year, March is designated as NationalWomen’s History Month to ensure that thehistory of women will be recognized andcelebrated in schools, workplaces, and

communities throughout the country. The stories of women’shistoric achievements present an expanded view of the complexityand fulfillment of living a purposeful life.

The knowledge of women’s history provides a more expansivevision of what a woman can do. This perspective can encouragegirls and women to think larger and bolder and can give boys andmen a fuller understanding of the female experience. This year’stheme recognizes the pioneering and fearless ways that womenhave taken the lead to save the planet.

To learn about the history and for some great ideas, visithttp://www.nwhp.org or www.infoplease.com where you can finda multitude of information such as biographies of notable women,history and timelines, special features, topics especially for kids,winners and honorees, quizzes you can use in your classroomactivities, statistical information, and links to many otherresources -- Women in World History, Fathorn KnowledgeNetwork: Women’s History Month Resources, NationalOrganization for Women and many more.

Presidential Awards forExcellence in Mathematics andScience TeachingYour Chance to Nominate OutstandingTeachers!

The Presidential Awards for Excellence inMathematics and Science Teaching is the highestrecognition that a kindergarten through 12th-grademathematics or science teacher may receive foroutstanding teaching in the United States. Awardeesare recognized for their contributions to teachingand learning and their ability to help students makeprogress in mathematics and science. In addition tohonoring individual achievement, the goal of theaward program is to exemplify the highest standardsof mathematics and science teaching.

Since the program’s inception in 1983, more than3,900 outstanding teachers have been recognized fortheir contributions to mathematics and scienceeducation. If you know great teachers, nominatethem to join this prestigious network ofprofessionals.

Nominations are now being accepted online forthe 2009 Presidential Awards for Excellence inMathematics and Science Teaching. Teachers maynominate themselves or someone else (e.g.,principals, teachers, parents, or other members ofthe general public) may nominate them for thisaward.

The PAEMST Online Application is now available.To apply, teachers must first be nominated for theaward. Once nominated, teachers will receive anemail with a login and password to access the onlineapplication. The application deadline forsecondary school teachers (Grades 7-12) is May 1,2009. Elementary school teachers (Grades K-6) areeligible to apply in 2010.

The application process for the PresidentialAwards for Excellence in Mathematics and ScienceTeaching involves four phases:

* Nomination* Completion of an application* State and national competition* FBI background check (for finalists)

The deadline for nominations is April 1, 2009.The nomination form should be completed earlyenough to ensure that the nominated teacher isgiven enough time to thoroughly prepare anapplication that reflects exemplary teaching prior tothe application deadline. Applications are due byMay 1, 2009.

Award recipients receive:* A citation signed by the President of the United

States* A paid trip for two to Washington, DC, to attend

a weeklong series of recognition events andprofessional development opportunities

* A $10,000 award from the National ScienceFoundation

* Gifts from program sponsors from around thecountry

* The chance to build lasting partnerships withcolleagues across the Nation

All applications will be submitted online.

Visit www.paemst.org for eligibilityrequirements, nomination guidelines, applicationinformation, and to apply online.

Other resources are ...— http://www.publiceducation.org/newsblast

_grants.asp— www.teacherscount.org— www.neafoundation.org/grants.htm— http://e-grants.ed.gov/egHome.asp— www.learningis4everyone.org/content/category

/1/47/2/— www.k12grants.org/newsletter.htm— http://school.discovery.com/schrockguide/

business/grants.html

www.ccea-nv.org CCEA Express • Page 11

PBS In Education******************************************

Download the Masterpiece ClassicTeachers Guide to Teaching Dickens

Designed to help readers see Dickens’ relevance to ourworld today, this extensive teaching tool offers generalquestions and activities to be used in conjunction withDickens’ texts and the Masterpiece Classic productionsof Oliver Twist, Little Dorrit, The Old Curiosity Shop andDavid Copperfield. What do we mean when we speak ofsomething being Dickensian? How does Dickensillustrate his famous and eccentric characters? How didthe workhouse conditions of Dickens’ day compare topoverty in our time? The Teachers Guide for TeachingDickens offers clear and concise classroom ideas foropening the world of Charles Dickens to school-agereaders. Visit http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/learn/guides.html

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LEGOLAND & Sea Life Aquarium 1-Day Hopper ticket. Second day is FREE if used within 90 days.

$53.00 $53.00(2 and under free)

$73.00 Adult$63.00 Child

$20.00 Adult$10.00 Child

ATTRACTION ADULT CHILD GATE PRICE $AVING$

Adventuredome Theme ParkCircus Circus Hotel & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip.

$14.00 No child ticket available $24.99 Adult $10.99 Adult

Tournament of Kings - Excalibur Hotel & CasinoJousting Dinner Show on the Las Vegas Strip - Dark TuesdaysShow vouchers for 6:00 PM or 8:30 PM

$57.00 $4.21Starting @$61.21

$57.00(children 2 and under

seated on parents lap)

Movie Tickets - Regal * United Artist * Edwards TheatresNo restrictions, No expiration -- Tickets are good throughout the U.S.

Disneyland & California Adventure Parks2-Day Hopper.

$136.00(+10 & older)

$117.00(ages 3 to 9)

$143.00 Adult$123.00 Child

$7.00 Adult$6.00 Child

LEGOLAND Second day is FREE if used within 90 days.

$44.00 $44.00(2 and under free)

$63.00 Adult$53.00 Child

$19.00 Adult$9.00 Child

Six Flags Magic Mountain1-Day Ticket. Valid on any regular operating day.

$26.00 $15.00(under 48“)

$39.00 Adult$29.99 Child

$13.00 Adult$14.99 Child

Universal Studios - 2-Day Ticket2nd day must be used within 7 days of initial visit.

$57.00 $57.00 $67.00 $10.00

Knott’s Berry Farm1-Day Ticket.

$26.99(Ages 3-61,48" or taller)

$19.99 Junior (3 yrs & under 48”) $19.99 Senior (62+)

$51.99 Regular$21.99 J / S

$25.00 Regular$2.00 J / S

Sea World2-Day Ticket.

$51.00 $45.50(ages 3 to 9)

$65.00 Adult$55.00 Child

$14.00 Adult$9.50 Child

San Diego Zoo - Good for admission, unlimited use of guided bustour, express bus & skyfari aerial tram.

$30.00 $22.00(ages 3 to 11)

$35.00 Adult$26.00 Child

$5.00 Adult$4.00 Child

San Diego Wild Animal Park - Journey into Africa Tour andConservation Carousel; excludes parking.

$30.00 $22.00(ages 3 to 11)

$35.00 Adult$26.00 Child

$5.00 Adult$4.00 Child

Tickets are $7.00 year round!

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Clark County Education Association4230 McLeod DriveLas Vegas, NV 89121Tel. 702-733-3063 • www.ccea-nv.org

PRSRT STDU.S. Postage

PAIDLas Vegas, NVPermit No. 57

2008 TaxInformation

If you were a dues paying member ofCCEA for the calendar year January 1,2008 to December 31, 2008, the itemizedmiscellaneous dues deduction that youmay be able to deduct on your 2008 taxreturn is $680.88.

For more information, see page A-9 of the instructions for IRS form 1040,schedule A itemized deductions, line21, or consult with your tax adviser forspecific tax questions and advice.

Spring Break…is right around the corner

Whether your travels take you to Southern California or you decide to stay in town, let CCEA save you money on these popularattractions! Just stop by the CCEA office or call Sharon Whalum at 733-3063.

Please be aware that we make every effort to keep this information up-to-date. Quantities may be limited and special conditions may apply to purchasesome tickets. Prices, tickets and restrictions are subject to change without notice. All sales are final - No refunds or returns. We accept cash, personalcheck from CCEA member only, and payroll deduction as method of payment.