This event will occur on: 05/23/2008

The last social of the 2007-08 school year is scheduled for May 23, 3:30-7:00 at Ninfa's at Jones and West Roads. Bring a guest and be present for a chance to win a doorprize. Margaret Brown, local membership chair, has become reknowned for her fun gifts and cash prizes. Don't miss the food and fun. No reservation necessary; bring a friend!

Frances Smith, President, CyFair TSTA/NEA, addressed the May 12 CFISD board meeting. Her complete comments on the impact of the legislative budget and the economy follow.

"As we approach the end of another school year, contrasting emotions are running rampant among the district's students. On one side, there are the graduating seniors whose parents and families are ecstatic regarding their impending graduation, awards given, scholarships which have been awarded, and the feelings of a job well done after 13 years of schooling. We can also celebrate successful TAKS tests for most students and advancement to the next grade level. On the other hand, we must work to make sure that those who did not complete all of the requirements have a plan and have the resolve to complete the plan, so that they may advance to the next grade level, begin careers or continue their educations.
For the district's teachers, there is a great sense of uncertainty, especially, of course for those who are on the excess list. While many hope that, eventually, they will get another contract, others are busy sending applications and going on interviews, and there is no sense of relief until the contract is signed. For those who do have a job, most know that nothing is certain, as almost all teaching teams have had to be reduced in number of teachers. So, even if a teacher has been in a certain position for a number of years, is quite competent, and enjoys it, it is not certain that he/she will be in that position next year. I have been questioned numerous times as to "what I might know" about the district's situation; no one is resting easy and many expressions are strained.
The Texas legislature managed to put a lock on Cy Fair's finances at a time when the highest rates of inflation and rising food and gas prices are occurring that we have seen in many years. Therefore, it is no wonder that so many teachers feel trapped, even if they have been prudent financially. For those who have endured unexpected financial problems, there are few choices. Many have already found second jobs and/or are applying to teach summer school for the first time. The financial pinch is real and it hurts.
For the district's high school teachers, the change to seven periods a day will mean an additional 30 students, even more at home grading, which for some of us, is already difficult if we have young families. We understand the change was inevitable due to the increased state graduation requirements, but teachers often feel that there has been no thought as to the consequences for them.
We recognize that finances and state laws have put the district within difficult parameters; however, even though the budget is tight, it would send a signal to our teachers, if there could be a raise to cover inflation, at minimum. Educator's salaries are modest at best, and the abrupt rise in groceries prices, and especially gasoline prices, has caught many in a real vise grip. We ask that they receive some compensation for the forces beyond their control to assist them during such a difficult time."

Spring Membership Special! Enroll in TSTA this spring and pay no dues until Fall. Great opportunity to receive outstanding publications and experience the benefits of TSTA membership.

Contact your campus AR or April Lemmon at April.Lemmon@cfisd.net for a membership application.