The 19th annual meeting of Professional Educators of Tennessee was held Saturday, June 13, at Glenstone Lodge in Gatlinburg. The meeting theme “A Better Way…A Brighter Day” gave focus to the fact that membership with PET does provide a better way for members and the future looks bright for membership growth. Attendees were encouraged to look forward and expect a brighter days for access to potential new members.
Bill Gemmill, PET Board of Directors vice-president, convened the meeting with comments and a devotional thought. After leading in the Pledge of Allegiance, he introduced Walter Jewell, executive director, for his annual report. The thrust of Walter’s report gave emphasis to the challenges ahead for independent teacher associations such as PET. We will need to work together to bring about change in state government so as to provide equal access in Tennessee schools. The executive leadership of PET will change in the coming years and the board will be working on leadership replacement.
Ginger Tinney, executive director Professional Oklahoma Educators (POE), gave a presentation on “Professional Alternatives to Collective Bargaining.” She talked about work she has done in Oklahoma to create better a more positive atmosphere for determining teacher salaries and benefits. As the leader of a growing association, her information was timely and well received.
Larry Crain, PET Legal Counsel, discussed school violence and presented information from a violence in the school study done by the National Center for Education. Teachers and administrators were encouraged to recognize warning signs in student behavior; keep a written record of a student’s remarks and behavior; report information to the principal and other administrators; and request intervention by parents, school officials and the Department of Children’s Services. His comments were most enlightening and prompted several questions and additional comments.
Tracey Bailey, state director of Virginia Professional Educators, followed lunch with an enthusiastic “Update on the Growth of Independent Teacher Associations.” He traced his personal journey which led him to involvement with independent associations in Florida and Virginia. He reminded us of the importance of our attitude and having a servant’s heart. As independent associations, we must think big but work small to get big.
Tim Brinegar, PET Legal and Legislative Services Liaison, gave an update on his involvement with education issues during the recent state legislative session. He reminded us of the key 2010 election of state legislators.
Jan Forman, PET Director of Membership, brought the meeting to a close with the awarding of door prizes and comments about the excellent presentations and information shared. He also introduced local unit presidents in attendance.
The 2010 annual meeting will celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the founding of PET. The meeting will be in Franklin, Tennessee. Mark your calendars and plan to join us on Saturday, June 12, for the big celebration.