Amazing 08 Election Victories CCEA goes 4 for 4 in historic school board of trustees election

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1 Vol. 9, Issue 4 December 2008 / January 2009 Important Dates December 9, 2008 CCEA Executive Board Mtg. CCEA Association Rep Council Mtg. December 15, 2008 Bill of Rights Day December 19, 2008 Health Traxx Winter Issue CCEA Offices to Noon December 21, 2008 First Day of Winter December 22-29, 2008 Hanukkah December 22 - January 2, 2009 CCSD Winter Break December 24, 2008 Christmas Eve CCEA Offices Closed December 25, 2008 Christmas Day CCEA Offices Closed December 26, 2008 CCEA Offices Closed December 26 - January 1, 2009 Kwanzaa December 31, 2008 New Year s Eve CCEA Offices Closed January 1, 2009 New Year s Day (no school) CCEA Offices Closed January 5, 2009 Classes Resume January 13, 2009 CCEA Executive Board Mtg. January 19, 2009 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Observed (no school) CCEA Offices Closed January 23, 2009 CCSD Staff Development Day January 27, 2009 CCEA Association Rep Council Mtg. Amazing 08 Election Victories CCEA goes 4 for 4 in historic school board of trustees election November 4, 2008, will go down in history for electing the first African- American President of the United States. But, locally, the Clark County Education Association made history when all four CCEA-recommended candidates were elected to the Clark County School District Board of Trustees something political pundits could not have predicted. CCEA s recommended candidates in those races were District A - Deanna Wright; District B - Chris Garvey; District C - Linda Young; and District E - incumbent Terry Janison. (Current board members Mary Beth Scow, Ruth Johnson and Shirley Barber were ineligible to run due to term limits.) We extend a heartfelt THANKS to CCEA members, retirees, staff, and friends & family for volunteering countless hours to participate in the many activities that surrounded these campaigns. Your commitment to electing teacher-friendly candidates to the school board most certainly paid off. (Please see page 5 for list of volunteers.) In addition to the school board races, we were very successful in electing an education-friendly slate of legislators to the Nevada Senate and Assembly, including Speaker Barbara Buckley and the First African- American Senate Majority Leader, Steven Horsford. Now, it is time for the truly Your involvement throughout the coming legislative session will be critical. Sign up to receive alerts. Visit today! difficult work to begin. Nevada is in financial crisis and Governor Gibbons has warned us that an additional $300+ million needs to be reduced from the budget. The 2009 Legislative Session will prove extremely challenging for education funding considering the current economic conditions, but we must demand that K-12 public education remain a top priority. The governor and the legislature always claim that education is a priority, so let s hold them accountable. We will not take any lip service. We will be calling upon everyone yes, that means you too to contact your legislators and demand that they put education first. It is time they fulfill their campaign promises. It is time they deliver the resources and funding necessary to provide a quality education in Nevada. We will be at the forefront reminding them that teachers working conditions, are students learning conditions. Inside This Issue Pg 2 A Word from the President Pg 3 Legal Corner Pg 4 Retiree Health Trust FAQs Pg 5 Thank You! Pg 6 Board Vacancies Pg 7-10 Promotions & Discounts Pg 12 Attorney Referral Program Expanded Pg Opportunity Grants & Read to Me Pg 15 Grants & Awards Available

2 A Word from the President by Ruben R. Murillo, Jr. What next? In the past, CCEA has been criticized for being weak, having a lack of influence, or being impotent when it comes to politics. Then, on November 4, 2008, that perception changed. CCEA was successful in electing all four endorsed candidates for CCSD Board of Trustees. We make no apologies for supporting the candidates we endorsed and to the extent that we did. The Review-Journal, as well as other media outlets (including ESPN sports radio 1100), has been critical of our involvement. As an organization, it is imperative that CCEA be actively involved in the political process. We will be at the forefront, working with our endorsed candidates on issues that impact teachers and students Stay connected. in the classroom. We need Sign up for candidates who are open to updates. Simply visit hearing CCEA s input on the issues rather than board members who would cast aside the voice of CCEA members to further their own agenda. So where do we go from here? With the 2009 Nevada Legislature set to meet in February, the threat of a special session to address additional budget cuts, and the Room Tax Advisory Question, CCEA members must be ready to act at a moment s notice. In order to organize our members for this important legislative session we need your help and participation by doing the following. Go to and sign up to receive notices. Your assistance will be needed in contacting legislators when important issues arise. Robo calls will be used to deliver important information. They will direct you to the CCEA web page for specific information and directions. CCEA will also look for members who wish to serve as legislative advocates assigned to southern Nevada legislators. The CCEA Government Relations Committee will work to develop a grassroots organization that will offer training to members who are interested in becoming active advocates for teachers and CCEA. If you have any other ideas or are interested in participating in these endeavors, please go to and sign up to receive s. We face a depressed economy and devastating proposed budget cuts in the upcoming legislative session. We need your participation to protect teachers benefits and working conditions. Get involved. There is just too much at stake. Frequently Asked Questions By Kathy Foresythe CCEA Deputy Executive Director Legal Services Topic: Personnel Files Does CCSD maintain more than one personnel file for a teacher? Yes, Article 14 of the Negotiated Agreement provides for two (2) personnel files: one is kept at the central office and one is kept at the school location. Can written reports, comments, and other documents be placed in these files without the knowledge of the teacher? No, a copy of any document placed in the personnel files must be provided to the teacher. Are teachers required to sign documents to be placed in their file? Yes, if you are directed to sign a document, other than a resignation, you must sign it. Can a teacher be disciplined for refusing to sign a document? Yes, refusal to follow a direction to sign a document is considered insubordination and could result in an admonition. Does your signature mean that you agree with the contents of the document? No, by signing a document you are acknowledging that you have received it, not that you agree with it. Can teachers respond to documents placed in their personnel files? Yes, you have thirty (30) work days (see definition in Article 1-13) to submit a response to your administrator. W h e re does the response go? The response is signed by your administrator and a copy is placed in your work location file and one is sent to Human Resources to be placed in your central office file. Page 2 CCEA Express

3 Budget Cuts... What does it mean to my contract? In the wake of the much talked about budget cuts, speculation, rumors and fear have raised several questions about the working conditions for licensed personnel. Many calls have come in asking whether teachers will have to give up preparation periods and whether there will be a step increase next year, all of which are valid questions. The fact that CCEA was able to negotiate the 2% and 4% pay raises for last year and this year, along with PERS paid this year, is astonishing given the budget crisis that was already occurring. The Collective Bargaining Agreement entered into between the school district and CCEA is a valid contract requiring that the terms outlined therein are met by the parties. That 64-page document is critical to defining the minimums that the school district must adhere to. The current contract provides for preparation periods, duty free lunch, sick days, etc. amongst other terms that enhance working conditions. Significantly, the salary schedule is also included in the contract. Thus, teachers will continue to advance based upon education and/or experience. With that said, there are other ways that budget cuts can and will more than likely have to occur and CCEA is prepared to have those discussions with the school district. Negotiations for the next contract will resume this fall and both parties will be interested in setting forth their goals for maintaining the terms in the contract that already exist, as well as being innovative in a budget crisis. it is imperative that teachers get involved and write to the State Legislature. Only by putting pressure on the legislature will there be an opportunity to secure funding for raises, retain/ reduce class sizes, and improve working conditions. This year, more than ever, it is imperative that teachers get involved and write to the State Legislature. Only by putting pressure on the legislature will there be an opportunity to secure funding for raises, retain/reduce class sizes, and improve working conditions. I recently met with a member who told me that her grandmother had worked for the school district for 40 years and they had to fight for preparation periods. She was adamant that preparation periods be protected because once you give something up, it will be hard to ever get it back. It s easy to let the propaganda, rumors and speculation that is around us put fear in our minds. To the extent that it empowers us to get politically motivated and effect change in the legislature, it is good. However, if you become fearful, remember you are not worse off than you were. The Collective Bargaining Agreement will protect working conditions. The school principal, superintendent, nor the school board can unilaterally take them away without being negotiated. NSEA Endorsed Candidates Win Big! More than 75 percent take races NSEA is happy to report that approximately 75 percent of the endorsed candidates won their elections on November 4. We re so proud of those candidates and are happy that the hard work and commitment of our members contributed to the success of these individuals, commented NSEA President Lynn Warne. We look forward to working hand in hand with these incumbents and newly-elected leaders to see that the ever-increasing needs of K- 12 public schools in Nevada are met. The next step is preparing for the 2009 Legislative Session. NSEA will be on the ground in Carson City lobbying Nevada s lawmakers to protect members rights, as well as to implement legislation to ensure we can provide quality public schools for Nevada s students. We will be counting on your involvement and support throughout the session. Stay tuned for ways in which you can become involved to ensure our success in Carson City. CCEA Bylaw Amendments March 2, 2009 deadline for submissions The CCEA Bylaws Committee is accepting proposed amendments to the CCEA Bylaws. The deadline for submission of the amendments is Monday, March 2, A PDF file with the format required for the submission can be downloaded at Amendment forms must be received at the CCEA office (4230 McLeod Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89121) no later than 4:30 p.m. on Monday, March 2, If you have any questions regarding the submittal process, please contact Ruth Serrano at CCEA Express Page 3

4 RETIREE HEALTH TRUST FAQs Who is the Retiree Health Trust (RHT)? The RHT is the Trust that manages your retiree health plan. The RHT is considered its own legal entity. It has its own board members, IRS identification number, and bank numbers. Although not subject to ERISA, (Employee Retirement Insurance Security Act of 1974), the RHT intends to follow ERISA guidelines to the extent feasible. How is the RHT funded? $1.4 million from CCSD annually. An additional monthly contribution of $12.76 per licensed employee by CCSD. A start-up transfer of approximately $3 million from the Career Plan. An assessment of $15 per paycheck from each licensed employee. Is my contribution covered under Section 125? No, Section 125 bars pre-tax deductions on the $15.00 RHT subsidy deduction because it is for your future retiree insurance benefit. How do I qualify for retiree insurance benefits with the RHT? You must have 5 years of service as a licensed employee with the Clark County School District ( CCSD ) and must have retired as a licensed employee. Your years of service do not have to be consecutive. How do I qualify for a RHT subsidy? You must have a minimum of 10 years of service as a licensed employee with CCSD. Your years of service do not have to be consecutive; however, you must have retired from CCSD as a licensed employee. Revised Do I have to enroll for retiree insurance benefits with the RHT immediately after my retirement? No, you have up to 5 years to enroll in the RHT providing you have had continuous health insurance coverage with CCSD during the 5 year period. If you do not elect to enroll immediately following your retirement as a licensed employee, you may only enroll in the RHT during an open enrollment period or a life event. If I am 65 years or older do I qualify for the RHT? Yes. However, because Medicare coverage begins at age 65, a Medicare Advantage Plan will be offered for those retirees who are 65 years of age or older. Retirees covered by the Medicare Advantage Plan will also receive dental, vision and life insurance from the RHT. If I join ESEA or CCASAPE bargaining unit can I continue my contributions and have it count towards my years of contributions? No. What are the subsidy contributions? Tier years 30% subsidy Tier years 45% subsidy Tier years 55% subsidy Tier 4 over 30 years 68% subsidy Can my unused sick leave count towards my subsidy percentage? Amount of Unused Sick Days Additional Percent of Subsidy % % % % Yes. CCEA Elections Now Underway Members to elect 147 representatives in this election cycle The CCEA Elections Committee will be holding the 2009 CCEA Elections. Open positions include CCEA Secretary, CCEA Treasurer, CCEA Executive Board seats 1A, 2A, 3A, 4A and 5A, CCEA representatives on the NSEA Board of Directors seats G, H, I, J, K and L, five positions for the CCEA TIP Coordinating Council, and approximately 79 positions to the NSEA Delegate Assembly and 50 positions to the NEA Representative Assembly. At press time, nominations were scheduled to close during the December 9 Association Representative Council meeting. The Elections Newsletter will be produced to deliver the candidates messages. It will mail to all members on January 20, The Elections Committee will release ballots on Friday, January 30, Ballots must be received at the clearing house Daniel McArthur, Ltd., 501 S. Rancho Drive - Suite E-30, Las Vegas, NV no later than 5:00 p.m., Friday, February 20, Vote. Your participation in the election of your representatives is vital to the success of the organization. CCEA Express is published September through August by the Clark County Education Association (CCEA), 4230 McLeod Drive, Las Vegas, NV CCEA is affiliated with the Nevada State Education Association (NSEA) and the National Education Association (NEA). The publication s goal is to keep members abreast of issues affecting education and to provide economic benefits. Ruben R. Murillo, Jr. President Robert Benson Vice President Cindy Johnson Secretary Cassandra W. Bell Treasurer John Jasonek Executive Director Letty Elias Editor Ron Lopez Christine Page Contributing Editors Page 4 CCEA Express

5 Your active participation in the grassroots efforts to elect pro-education representatives gives public education a fighting chance, especially in these difficult economic times. It would not have been possible without your help. CCEA Members & Retired Teachers Rosalinda Soriano Margaret Aul Elizabeth Mannion Stan Lasker Theresa Boucher Precindia Parks April Carlson Lauel Lusk Mary Ella Holloway Bonnie Peck Mike Peck Jason Slobodnik Michelle Walz Billie Ann Watanabe Casey Korder Jean Stamm Mary Campbell Michelle Menard Brad Truax Wanda Keith Sharon Flick Brian Flick Jan Joiner Lisa Bright Scott Miller Cynthia Bustos Kerri Soper Karen David Juanita Oard Scott Austin Mike Steinbrink Bonnie Johnson Erin Riddle Michelle Noble Cindy Johnson Sheila Gaiser Leola Brinker Loretta Harper Carmen Garcia Bryn Songer April Kahle Amy DeVaul Ruben Murillo Doug Jydstrup Cassandra Bell Clara Munk Jodi Brant Ivy Rasmussen Lana Hess Carol Livingston Valerie McNay Doug Bache Thamilda Lewis Samye Lynom Nancy Gentis Chris Mangiapane John Gilmour Mina Coy Kim Bivan Althea Brown Terri Buhecker Kathy Zamora Amy Hirsbrunner Nick Bean Tom Bean John McLavy Jennifer Webb-Cook Blair Hogan Todd Rush Shan Terada Emily Boecker Terri Veach Shirley Webb Rob Benson Peg Bean Vikki Courtney Bonnie Edney Susie Sotelo Deann Baker Robert Hollowood Kathleen Coveney Shelly Bourque Lana Resnick Nancy Heimark James Smalley Jr. Debra Parhamovich Patsy Taylor Darcy Jespersen Dee Woodbury Christina McCollum Irving Madnikoff Mary Frances Ringstad Rick Jacoby Antoinette Wise-Sims Annette Coco Peter Simonds Victoria Heaton Larry Strannix Marjorie Gibson Natasha Thatcher Gloria Mason Susan Lefave Nicole Wilfinger Jennifer Jablonski Valerie Chiariamonte Lois Mack Gerri North Kay Padgham Ann Larson Marj Zimmerman Renee Rampton Chuck McCullough Gayle McCullough Non Members Gregg Frydman Candace Bixman-Murphy Family & Friends Ertis North Kenneth Noble Ti-Chen Feng Alex Bean George Bean, Sr. Bethany Noakes Carlos Bean George Bean MacKenzie Johnson Kerry Courtney Jack Courtney Andrew Page Porshia Stoner Jack Keith Sam Christos Association Staff Ed Alvarado Jocelyn Zepeda Janine Chamberlain Tracy Pollock Erin Colegrove Africa Sanchez Cathy Eisenzimer Ruth Serrano Pat Pay Jim Kee Adam Kerrigan Ron Lopez Sharon Whalum John Jasonek Letty Elias Mo Haid Kathy Foresythe Jahvel Manyvong Kevin Nielsen Diane Ostrozinski Christine Page Ed Tolleson Sheree Segura Dane Watson If you worked on a candidate s campaign and your name doesn t appear on the list, please let us know. We want to recognize your efforts and participation. Please visit and complete the My Vote Counts online form by January 9. CCEA Express Page 5

6 Board Vacancies NSEA Board of Directors - Seat I The untimely passing of CCEA member Pam Chambers created a vacancy on the NSEA Board of Directors. In accordance with NSEA Bylaws, the vacancy would be filled through an appointment by the CCEA Executive Board. The vacancy was announced in the CCEA Express and at the September 23 CCEA Association Representative Council meeting. Interested members submitted résumés for consideration by the CCEA Executive Board. The Board, at its November 3 meeting, reviewed the submitted letters of interest and résumés and conducted interviews. The Board appointed Mary Clair to represent CCEA members and to fulfill the remainder of the term. Mary will be attending her first meeting of the NSEA Board of Directors on Friday, December 5. Congratulations, Mary! CCEA Review Board The Elections Committee held elections for the CCEA Review Board vacancies Seats C and D during the October 28 Association Representative Council meeting. Elected to the 3-year term positions are: Seat C - Marjorie Gibson Seat D - Emily Boecker Congratulations to Marj and Emily! CCEA Executive Board - 2A A vacancy for the unfulfilled term on Seat 2A was created with the appointment of Cindy Johnson to the position of CCEA Secretary. Nominations for this seat opened during the October 28 Association Representative (AR) Council meeting and will close during the November 25 AR Council meeting at which time the election will be conducted. At press time, the election for this seat had not been conducted. The results will appear in the February 2009 edition NSEA/CCEA Access Card On Its Way to You The Access card for the membership year was mailed to all members via U.S. mail in late November. The card serves as both a membership card and a discount card. It is another great benefit of membership; it entitles you to receive discounts on an incredible array of services and products at more than 150,000 retailers nationwide. Enjoy the card and the savings it provides you. If you have not received your card by January 2, please call We will send you one right away! 3 rd Smash Year!!! Dollar For Dollar, It s The Best Show In Town Len Butcher, Las Vegas Review-Journal Four women at a lingerie sale with nothing in common but a black lace bra AND memory loss, hot flashes, night sweats, not enough sex, too much sex and more! This joyful musical parody set to 25 classic baby boomer songs from Puff, My God I m Draggin to the disco favorite Stayin Awake, Stayin Awake, will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles! It s Definitely Not The Silent Passage anymore! We invite the CCEA to join us for a Special Discount of $49.95 per ticket includes all taxes and fees (Regularly $60.89) Cannot be combined with any other offers, promotions, special rates or previously purchased tickets Call the box The Las Vegas Hilton (702) Mention Code: CCEA LG Performance Schedule Monday: 7 pm Tuesday: 7 pm Wednesday: 2 pm, 7 pm Thursday: 7 pm Friday: 7 pm Saturday: 4 pm, 7 pm Sunday: 4 pm, 7 pm In The Shimmer Cabaret at The Las Vegas Hilton Page 6 CCEA Express

7 Wolfgang Puck s Chinois is pleased to present an exclusive holiday offer for members of CCEA. Wolfgang Puck is a strong supporter of educators and is pleased to present the exclusive offer in appreciation for your work on behalf of the children of Clark County. All CCEA members will receive 50% off at Chinois Sundays through Thursdays, now through Dec. 30, Offer cannot be combined with any other coupon or discount offer. Offer is valid for CCEA members only and is not transferrable. Offer does not include alcohol or gratuity. Must show CCEA membership card to receive the discount. We come to your home, school site, or office every quarter to change your oil, oil filter, top off fluids and put air in tires if needed. Teachers receive 20% off the first oil change. Regular price is $40; discounted is $32. KKMobileOil.com (702) Offer expires December 31, CCEA Express Page 7

8 STOMP OUT LOUD is The Strip s loudest hit at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. A unique combination of percussion, movement, and visual comedy, STOMP OUT LOUD has created its own inimitable form of musical entertainment. STOMP OUT LOUD performs in The Showroom at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino nightly at 7:00 p.m. Call or visit and use promotion code: 241DM3 STOMP OUT LOUD is pleased to present an exclusive offer to CCEA members. Buy one ticket and receive a second ticket free. Offer valid through December 30, Offer applies to regularly priced tier one and two tickets. Must show valid ID upon ticket pick-up at the Box Office. Offer is subject to availability and is not valid with any other offer or for previously purchased tickets. All sales are final; no refunds or exchanges. Blackout dates apply. Member Benefits At CCEA we strive to bring you promotions and discounts on a large variety of products and services. These special promotions are offered by local community businesses. To enjoy these offers, we encourage you to visit us at click on Member Resources and select Promotions & Discounts. Check us out frequently as the offers change often. Remember, the Educators Business Guide goes online January 2009 click on its icon under Promotions & Discounts. Keyword: Clark County Page 8 CCEA Express

9 We offer Clark County teachers a saving on our 15% Discount Card, so stop by and check out our large selection of items. Store hours are Mon.-Sat. 9am-9pm and Sun. 10am-7pm. Congratulations from CCSD has qualified for See s Sweet Savings Discount program. That means CCSD employees are eligible to receive discounts on purchases of select boxed candy items & gift certificates at See s Quantity Discount shop on west Sahara. Savings up to 30% off retail prices Simply show your CCSD I.D. at our register to enjoy See s Sweet Savings prices through What a delicious benefit! 4760 W. Sahara Avenue - Suite 28 Call for store hours DISCOUNT ONLY AT THIS LOCATION Purchase Orchestra Level tickets at $135 and receive the Absolut Best Seat in the House VIP Ticket Upgrade* a $100 value! Each Absolut VIP ticket includes: Prime Front Center Orchestra Seat Location Complimentary Absolut Specialty Cocktail Private Entrance into the Theatre, featuring Memorabilia from The Four Seasons and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Full Color Oversized Jersey Boys Souvenir Program To order your tickets, call or go online to JerseyBoysInfo.com/Vegas/ Use Code VIPVEGAS when ordering. *Offer available through February 12, Offer applies to Orchestra Level seating only. Must show Nevada ID upon pick-up at the box office. Offer is subject to availability and is not valid with any other offer or on previously purchased tickets. All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges. $135 ticket price does not include tax. CCEA members receive 10% off all landscape construction packages. Valid ID and discount request required upon initial consultation. Not valid with other offers or promotions. Hours: 8am - 8pm Daily LAWN (5296) As parents, we share our wisdom. As partners, we share a life. As friends, we share our wildest dreams. But seldom do we ever share our final wishes. We avoid the emotional topic when we should recognize it for what it is a kind, selfless act that relieves grieving family and friends of the planning burden. Creating your plan is simple if you use the four-step process: Reflect, Record, Share and Support. Start sharing your wishes today download a preplanning worksheet CCEA Express Page 9

10 NEA DUES-TAB Is your beneficiary information up-to-date? NEA DUES-TAB is free, automatic term life insurance coverage for all eligible members. This is a guaranteed benefit provided at no cost to members. Up to $1,000 of term life Up to $5,000 of accidental death and dismemberment coverage Up to $50,000 of AD&D coverage for any covered accident that occurs while on the job or serving as an Association leader Up to $150,000 of life insurance for homicide while on the job Your coverage is automatic, but you must register your beneficiary. Go to and click on NEA Complimentary Life Insurance (formerly known as NEA DUES-TAB) to register your beneficiary today! Page 10 CCEA Express

11 Documents to Keep in Your Professional Records File 1. Your teaching certificate/license(s) 2. Transcripts of degrees and credits including attendance 3. Letters of hire 4. An individual employee contract if you signed one upon hire 5. Supplemental contracts for extra duty responsibilities 6. A copy of the latest negotiated agreement 7. Yearly salary information and payroll notices 8. Records pertinent to your retirement 9. Records of leave accrual and use 10. Evaluation and growth plans 11. Commendations, awards and honors 12. Teaching schedules 13. Records of incidents involving discipline or referral of students 14. Records of referrals of students with special needs 15. Copies of all correspondence from your employer 16. Proof of Association membership 17. The Association s $1 million liability insurance policy brochure Are you looking for ways to motivate your students or raise funds for your work/school site? Is proud to partner with CCEA to offer two programs. 1Certificates of Achievement for your students. The certificates can be used as awards or incentives and they help build selfesteem, pride, and enthusiasm. Students receive a certificate for a Free Kids Meal with the purchase of an adult entree. They are designed to reward students demonstrating outstanding achievement in honor roll, perfect attendance, and/or good citizenship. 2School Spirit Night. This fun night at Joe s is for families of your school, where a percentage of the sales that your school brings in goes back to your school. You pick a date, promote it how you d like, and simply bring the flyer into Joe s. We will keep track of the sales. What s the catch? There is none. It is definitely a fun time for all and we d like to make your fundraiser a success. Certificates and flyers are available to you at all times and at no cost. Contact Sergio Morones at and the certificates and flyers will be delivered to you right away. Joe s Crab Shack wants to give back to our local community by promoting positive behavior and would like to start with your school. Moving or planning a move? If you are planning a move or have recently moved, have your mail follow you to your new address. Keeping organizations and entities informed of your name change and contact information (address, phone number and ) ensures communication won t be interrupted. It is important that you contact the SCHOOL DISTRICT and EACH one of the organizations listed below, since there is no sharing of information. U.S. Postal Service Pick up a Change of Address card at any local post office or you can now do it online visit scroll down to Would you like to...? and click on the Change of address link which will open a new window where you can make the change in no time. CCEA/NSEA/NEA To update your information you may: Call: Mail: 4230 McLeod Drive, Las Vegas, NV addresschange@ccea-nv.org If ing information, please include full name, address, city, state & zip code, home phone number, cellular number (if desired), and personal address. Teachers Health Trust To change your address the Trust at serviceteam@teachershealthtrust.org Please be sure to include your Trust ID No. Voter Registration (Election Department) You may request a Voter Registration Card by calling VOTE (8683) or download the form at ish/pages/regcur.aspx Nevada Dept. of Education - Teacher Licensing You may visit 9890 S. Maryland Pkwy - Suite 231, Room Las Vegas, or download the address/name change request form by visiting the Applications/Forms Portal at CCEA Express Page 11

12 Attorney Referral Program List of participating attorneys expanded Winter break is here and for some of us a perfect opportunity to take care of those pesky legal matters we have put off for a while. To assist you in this process, you have the CCEA/NSEA/NEA Attorney Referral Program at your service! The CCEA/NSEA/NEA Attorney Referral Program provides active members, their spouse, and dependent children with legal advice on personal matters in five association-identified core areas: Wills, Trusts, Guardianships and Estates; Real Estate; Domestic Relations (such as divorce, child support, name change); Traffic Violations; and Consumer Protection. During any membership year from September 1 to August 31 eligible members (including member s spouse and dependent children) are entitled to two free 30-minute consultation sessions with any of the association-approved attorneys. During the two free sessions, you may discuss any legal matter except income tax preparation. In addition to these free consultations, members may have specific legal work performed in five core areas at a 30 percent reduction of that attorney s normal fee. To take advantage of this membership benefit, call the attorney s office and identify yourself as a member of CCEA using the Attorney Referral Program. If more than a consultation is needed, always discuss the fees you will be charged with the attorney before the session begins. (Attorneys are not required to accept cases.) * PARTICIPATING ATTORNEYS * LAW FIRM PRE-DISCOUNT HOURLY FEES LAW FIRM PRE-DISCOUNT HOURLY FEES Layne F. Barney, Esq. $150 Layne F. Barney, Esq W. Cheyenne Ave., Suite 500 N. Las Vegas, NV Phone (702) Personal Injury, Probate, Immigration, Estate Planning, Corporations, Real Estate and Family Law Law Office of Mary F. Chapman, Ltd. $350 Mary F. Chapman, Esq W. Lake Mead Blvd., Suite 100 Las Vegas, NV Phone (702) Wills, Trusts, Real Estate and Consumer Protection. This firm offers fixed fee services in a core area or areas that are discounted by 30% for NEA/NSEA members. Andrade & Magana Law Group $195-$250 Giovanni Andrade, Esq. Marciar Magana 1489 W. Warm Springs Road, Suite 110 Henderson, NV Phone (702) Family Law and Domestic Relations The Herr Law Group $300 Allison Herr, Esq. 12 Sunset Way, Suite 212-B Henderson, NV Phone (702) Domestic Relations, Wills, Trusts and Guardianship Law Offices of Tracey Itts, LLC $325-$375 Tracey Itts 2000 S. Eastern Avenue Las Vegas, NV Phone (702) Domestic Relations and Adoptions Cliff W. Marcek, Esq. $300 Attorney & Counselor at Law 700 South Third Street Las Vegas, NV Phone (702) Personal Injury, Criminal and Family Law Miley Law Firm, PC $300-$350 Edward R. Miley, Esq. 711 South 9th Street Las Vegas, NV Phone (702) Guardianships, Domestic Relations, Traffic Violations, Criminal, Personal Injury, Auto Accidents and Lemon Law. This firm offers fixed fee services in a core area or areas that are discounted by 30% for NEA/NSEA members. Law Office of Lisa A. Taylor, Esq. $200-$250 Lisa A. Taylor, Esq West Lake Mead, Suite 300 Las Vegas, NV Phone (702) Real Estate, Wills and Estates, Consumer Protection, Personal Injury, Employment Law and Business Litigation Visit for a complete description of the program. Page 12 CCEA Express

13 Opportunity Grants The CCEA Community Foundation Opportunity Grants Program stimulates innovation by providing teachers and the community with resources to develop creative ideas. The competitive grants allow teachers and community groups throughout Clark County opportunities to experiment with new materials, new approaches to learning, and new ways to bring energy and excitement into their school and neighborhood. Opportunity Grants are awarded throughout the year (up to $500 per grant). Emphasis is put on activities that support Clark County youth so they may access school and community resources (regardless of ability to pay) as they grow into healthy and productive adults. Beatriz Magana Grant amount $ LeapPad Learning Center. Students will use their LeapPads to engage in interactive instruction while reading. The LeapPads will provide an enjoyable environment and help students become better learners. Jenna Regulinski Grant amount $ Non-fiction AR Books. This first year teacher s students will have access to non-fiction AR books in their classroom library. Jodi L. Grumbly Grant amount $ Fantastic Crayola Fun. Ms. Grumbly enjoyed the Crayola Dream-Makers PDE classes so much that she is incorporating the fun hands-on activities into her lessons. Students learn best when they are using their hands, and the crayola products will enhance their learning and lock the lessons into their minds. Recent Grants Awarded: Madness. This dedicated teacher has started a Friday morning math club to help students increase their problem solving abilities. To entice students to attend, breakfast is provided. Kimberly Wise Grant amount $ Manipulative Math Centers. Manipulative math centers will enhance the learning of skills previously taught. Students will have the opportunity to increase their math comprehension with the math centers. Megan Plourde Grant amount $ Bonding through Books: Teens Finding Social Connections as Readers. New high-interest books will be purchased to encourage reading with Book Clubs for fun. This idea of reading for fun will encourage them to read throughout their lives, which correlates with academic achievement. Rita Scroggins Grant amount $ Upgrade Reading Library. To encourage literacy among her students, this teacher plans to improve her library with newer, more popular books. Julie Weisgerber Grant amount $ Mathematical Magic. This teacher wishes to improve her students academic achievement in math by creating math centers that will enhance learning of previously taught math skills. The math centers will address the many diverse learning styles of the students in her classroom. Jamie L. Whitmore Grant amount $ A Treasure of Genres. By expanding the genres available in the classroom, this teacher will encourage increased literacy among her students encouraging them to step outside their literary comfort zone and try something new that they just might like. Rebecca Vega Grant amount $ Physics Day at Adventuredome. This fun and educational field trip will let students see Physics in action! Students will learn about basic physics in the classroom prior to the trip, and how a roller coaster works. They will then observe it for themselves at the Adventuredome. Donald Backner Grant amount $ Math Club Kelly Doyle Grant amount $ Election Year Excitement! To encourage students to be involved in their communities throughout their lives, they will be exposed to informational text. Most of the text will address the election (an added bonus). This will give students tools to increase their comprehension of informational texts. Kathryn Mazar Grant amount $ Math Manipulatives. Students will be hands-on from now on when learning math in this classroom. Students will have the advantage of learning math in a more tactile way. They will gain a deeper understanding of each principle taught. Kathleen Bearer Grant amount $ Science All Along. This Kindergarten teacher found it difficult to find time to fit science in more than once a week. This project will help incorporate science into the everyday lessons of reading, writing and math. They will focus on three different topics: the five senses, winter and polar animals and plants/trees. Deborah Wilhite Grant amount $ Robotics Club. First League Lego Robotics club creates opportunities for students to research and solve real-world problems. This program encourages teamwork and builds self-esteem. It inspires students to participate in science and technology in the future. (continues on page 14) CCEA Express Page 13

14 Opportunity Grants (continued from page 13) More storybooks unveiled The CCEA Community Foundation is proud to bring you the third phase of Read to Me storybooks. We invite you to make this program part of your class activities. Your students will be amazed by the wonderful reading performances. The new lineup includes: Ten Gallon Bart and the Wild West Show Performed by Terry Fator, Impersonator & Ventriloquist at Las Vegas Hilton and winner of 2007 America s Got Talent. Purplicious Read by Rita Rudner, Comedian at Harrah s Las Vegas. The Gum Chewing Rattler Read by Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman, The Happiest Mayor in the Universe. Old Black Fly Performed by Carrot Top, Comedian at Luxor, Las Vegas. Poof Read by Mac King, Magician & Comedian at Harrah s Las Vegas. Cool Bopper s Choppers Read by Clint Holmes and Kelly Clinton, Entertainers performing on stage around the world. La Abuelita Fina y Sus Sombrillas Maravillosas Read by Luis El Tapatio local DJ with La Preciosa 101.9FM. Hooray Jose Read by Coach Lon Kruger, Head Coach for the UNLV Men s Basketball Team. This story is also available for the hearing impaired. It is performed in American Sign Language by Cassidy Scolpino and narrated by Coach Kruger. The Clever Monkey Read by Rob Cleveland, Award Winning Author and Storyteller. Watch children s books online read by celebrity storytellers. For an interactive experience go to OR listen by calling BOOK (2665) Jinnie Anderson Grant amount $ Reading & Language Arts. This project will give students the building blocks to reading. Students will learn essential concept skills and experiences in phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, reading comprehension and writing. Sean B. Gilgore Grant amount $ Student Created Audio Library. Students who are accelerated readers will be recorded on audio as they read AR and trophies books; these recordings will be saved in an MP3 library. Students will be able to download the stories onto an MP3 player or burn a CD to listen to while at home. Students will learn about broadcasting and serving others. Patsy Whitworth Grant amount $ Classroom Jeopardy. This teacher is going to prepare her students for tests with the famous game Jeopardy. This program will be used by all the sixth grade teachers in the school. Julie Weisberger Grant amount $ Reading Done Right. Reading centers will be set up around the classroom equipped with comprehension packs, listening centers, game shows and writing centers. With hands-on experience, students have the ability to retain the information better and be engaged by it. Kayla Sparrow-Brown Grant amount $ Literacy Centers. Learning stations will help the minority, ELL and impoverished children in their literacy understanding. The learning stations will provide the students with additional practice in the areas of phonics, phonemic awareness, and comprehension. Kathleen Bearer Grant amount $ Family Fun Science Night. This project will allow for a night of education and fun where the student and their family can participate. Apply for an Opportunity Grant. It is easy! Visit Grant Writing Workshops offered to maximize your ability to qualify We invite you to attend one of the workshops to learn proper submission procedures when applying for an Opportunity Grant. Seminars will be held on Wednesdays from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the CCEA Community Foundation office located at 2880 E. Flamingo Road - Suite F, Las Vegas, NV (across from CCSD) on: January 14, 2009 March 11, 2009 Sign up for a workshop right away as seating is limited and reservations are required. Contact Kevin Nielsen through Interact to reserve your seat. to download the application or to apply online. Page 14 CCEA Express

15 The opportunity grants offered by the CCEA Community Foundation provide a local source to fund your innovative ideas. Below is information to help you expand on those resources: Toyota Tapestry Grants for Science Teachers Support for Innovative Classroom Science Projects Administered by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), Toyota Tapestry grants recognize outstanding educators who demonstrate excellence and creativity in science teaching. Since 1991 the program has awarded more than $8 million to 986 teams of teachers for innovative science classroom projects. This year, 50 large grants of up to $10,000 each and mini-grants of up to $2,500, totaling $550,000 in all, will be awarded to K 12 teachers of science in the United States. The project categories are: * physical science application * environmental science education * integrating literacy and science. To apply for funding, qualified teachers must submit a Toyota Tapestry proposal online. The deadline for completing the online application is 11:59 p.m., EST, Wednesday, January 21, Recipients will be notified by March 4, Non-recipients will be notified by May 31, Visit for more information and to begin the proposal submission process. Cable in the Classroom s Leaders in Learning Awards Education Innovators Honored This program recognizes outstanding educators, administrators, policymakers, and other community leaders working in schools who are (1) using new ideas and technology to educate and better prepare students; and (2) whose innovative practices have a positive impact on prek 12 education in one of the following categories: Cable partnerships for learning Media literacy education General excellence Policymaker excellence Winners receive a $3,000 cash prize and an allexpenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., in June While there, recipients will visit with members of Congress and attend a gala event with policymakers, government officials, leaders of the national education community, cable industry executives, and other VIPs. The deadline to submit an application is 12 p.m. (noon), PST, on December 17, Visit for information. NEA Foundation Provides Grant Opportunities New Web-Based Application Process Saves Time, Paper, & Is Easier To Complete The NEA Foundation has introduced a web-based application process for its $2,000 and $5,000 grants to support public school educators ideas to improve teaching and learning. Applicants can link directly to the application from The NEA Foundation s website ( After responding to three questions that determine eligibility, applicants complete the process in five simple steps. They are prompted when they ve left out any required information, and they are allowed to save their application if they need more time. The process also allows repeat applicants the opportunity to save personal and school information, cutting down on time spent on the administrative portion of the application and allowing more time for the narrative section. Available grants are: Learning & Leadership Grants These grants provide opportunities for teachers, education support professionals, and higher education faculty and staff to engage in high-quality professional development and lead their colleagues in professional growth. The grant amount is $2,000 for individuals and $5,000 for groups engaged in collegial study. Student Achievement Grants These grants provide $5,000 to improve the academic achievement of students by engaging in critical thinking and problem solving that deepen knowledge of standards-based subject matter. The work should also improve students habits of inquiry, self-directed learning, and critical reflection. (These grants replace the foundation s Innovation Grants program, which has been discontinued.) Application deadlines: February 1, June 1 and October CCEA Express Page 15

16 CCEA brings you the perfect stocking stuffer this holiday season. These premiere super saver tickets are valid for all movies and showtimes at any Regal Cinemas, United Artists and Edwards Theatres. Stop by the CCEA office to purchase your movie tickets. There s no purchase limit. Payroll deduction payment available for 5 tickets or more. Wish to send flowers or baskets this holiday season? CCEA has partnered with local businesses to bring you valuable discounts. Edible Arrangements East: 3754 E. Flamingo Rd., LV * West: 8520 W. Desert Inn Rd., LV * Hours of operation: Monday thru Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday - 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Offer: CCEA members receive $5 off on any order of $25 or more; 10% off on corporate accounts. Bloomers Floral Design 440 E. Sahara Ave., Suite A Las Vegas Hours of operation: Monday thru Friday - 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Offer: 10% discount on local orders - when ordering identify yourself as a CCEA member. English Garden Florist 4171 S. Maryland Pkwy. Las Vegas Hours of operation: Monday thru Saturday - 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday - 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Offer: CCEA members receive 10% discount or free upgrade for local Las Vegas orders. CCEA has secured tickets for the Pioneer Las Vegas Bowl XVII. Seating available in sections 202, 234 and 236. Ticket price is $ Join in the excitement of college football Order your tickets today! Hurry, tickets are selling fast. Call Towne and Country Flowers 1431 E. Charleston Blvd., Suite 1 Las Vegas Hours of operation: Monday thru Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Offer: 10% discount on local orders - when ordering identify yourself as a CCEA member. Clark County Education Association 4230 McLeod Drive Las Vegas, NV Tel PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Las Vegas, NV Permit No. 57