Last week's Representative Assembly business sessions were preceded by a general session updating the progress of the IEA Invest in Excellence campaign for increased school funding. Breakout sessions followed, providing time for discussion and suggestions on how to present the campaign to the legislature and the community. Interest ran high as members were asked to pledge support for the Capitol Action Day planned for May 2. [
View Photos]
Energized by the pre-sessions, nearly 1200 IEA delegates then proceeded to seamlessly tackle various agenda items, approving a $5 dues increase, passing three resolutions, adopting six new business items and three bylaws and addressing issues pertaining to the legislative platform.
Visits from various guest speakers, including Gov. Rod Blagojevich, IEA President Reg Weaver, several major Illinois policymakers and noted author Jonathan Kozol, were interspersed throughout the 2-1/2 day event. The achievements of individual members and students also were recognized in the presentation of several awards.
“The RA was a tremendous experience this year,” said President Ken Swanson. “From start to finish we were able to focus on our Invest In Excellence agenda, efficiently conduct all business, pass a budget which adds to our organizational capacity while only requiring a $5 dues increase, and hear from important policymakers including an address by Gov. Blagojevich in which he explained his
school funding proposal and asked for our help.
"I could not be more pleased with how engaged we were. I believe we all left Rosemont ready to do what is necessary to ensure this spring is when we FINALLY see systemic sustainable school funding reform and pension funding solutions passed and signed into law. Invest in Excellence is our focus from now until the end of the legislative session."