Much has transpired since the members of the Board of Education finalized its FY2010 Operational Budget.  As this summer began, many Reduction-in-Force (RIF) letters were sent to our members threatening them with demotions and/or termination of employment.  We met, on several occasions, throughout this period, with the Superintendent and selected members of his staff, to minimize the effects of the Board’s actions.

          We were successful in securing the retention of practically all of our affected members, either through assignments to same positions, transfers to like positions or, in a slight few cases, active employment in lieu of termination.  I am quite concerned that the fight we fought this summer is but a prelude to the battle which will be forthcoming in this fiscal year.  As Governor O’Malley wrestles with State shortfalls in projected revenues and as County Executive Johnson adjusts the County’s budget to align it with the County-share of State reductions, some impact could fall to Board of Education funding.

          This unexpected and all encompassing down turn of the economy has had an immense effect upon our Union and our members.  Recognizing this impact, I view this year as one of tremendous challenge to our Organization and members.  We must come together to provide a driving force to enhance and strengthen our Union to make it even stronger, more effective and more cohesive.  Support and protection of our members is of utmost importance.  With this in mind, I recognize that our Union can only achieve its strength, effectiveness and unity by the involvement of its members.  Maintaining an experienced, consistent, conscientious leadership is critical in these otherwise unstable times.

          Having served as President of ASASP for the past six years, I have come to recognize even more so the importance of this position and what it means to you as members.  When I began my term, times, although difficult, were nothing like our current situation.  Each year has presented more and more challenges and I have learned the process of addressing the issues in a member supportive and professional role.

          Although, as President, I have not accomplished all of my goals, I have been able to improve upon the working conditions and benefits and to negotiate the largest pay increase ASASP has ever received.  Also, as President of ASASP, I was elected as one of the national Vice Presidents on the Board of Directors of the American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA).

          These accomplishments, although significant, are not enough in the current economic situation.  The welfare of our members is critical and the consistent, experienced leadership of ASASP is crucial.  This challenge and opportunity has strengthened my desire to continue to represent you and is my motivation to run for another and final term.

          As the President of ASASP, one must be willing to make sacrifices to provide the representation you deserve.  Although I personally have experienced the consequences of being your leader, spokesperson and advocate, I have not let that diminish my desire to continue the fight which is needed even more so given today’s economic situation.  I feel in these six years as President, I have shown that I have and am willing to continue to make sacrifices for the betterment of our members.

          As this school year begins, I realize the many challenges we face.  Let me list several that come to mind:  SchoolMAX, the amendments to the Student Code of Conduct, a defined work day and work week, the Principal selection process, and improved and increased systemic intervention programs for behavioral students.  I am sure you can identify others and I welcome your ideas/suggestions.  As we undertake these challenges, your support will help in bringing about the needed changes.

          In closing, I am looking forward to working with you to meet the challenges of this year and years to come.  I assure you that I will strive to enhance the compensation of and the benefits for all our members and to support each and every one of you.  As we work through the difficult times ahead, let us pull together to surmount the obstacles as a unified membership.