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Friday, March 4, 2011

Des Moines Education Association: Time to Take A Stand - Monday, March 7, 5 PM!!!

Des Moines Education Association: Time to Take A Stand - Monday, March 7, 5 PM!!!

Time to Take A Stand - Monday, March 7, 5 PM!!!


In 2002 we faced across the boards cuts in education spending that were some of the largest seen in our state. In answer to these cuts we organized a rally where over 2,000 educators gathered at the state Capitol on one of the coldest days of the year.

Now we are faced with an even larger challenge. The Republicans in the Iowa House have introduced a bill (HF 525) that would:

· Eliminate the ability of DMEA to bargain health insurance benefits. DMEA has one of the best health insurance programs in the state. This is provided at no cost to virtually all staff in the District. Can you imagine what DMPS will do with this program if you no longer have the right to bargain these benefits? Some teachers in Iowa pay as much a $1,000/month for family health insurance. This could be you!

· Eliminates the ability of DMEA to bargain staff reduction language in your contract. Current staff reduction