March 2006

PSEA Human and Civil Rights Award for Community Leader as an Individual

 It is with pleasure to announce that Linda Heller, a member of our school community, was chosen to receive the 2006 PSEA Human and Civil Rights Award for Community Leader as an Individual. Ms. Heller was nominated by LMEA member Charles Whitting. The next few paragraphs are taken from his nomination letter.

Ms. Heller is an attorney with an office in Lower Merion. She is being honored in recognition of the outstanding contributions made toward African American regular and special education students attainment of equitable achievement, the elimination of the achievement gap and above all, for her appreciation of the intellectual credibility of black students.

Linda Heller is a non-litigating special education advocate. For nearly 12 years, she has assisted parents of children with various exceptionalities. She has so many requests for her services that she unable to accept every appeal. Parents seek her out for her expertise, diplomacy and ability to negotiate a positive outcome.

Linda Heller will receive the award at the PSEA Human and Civil Rights Award Dinner at the PSEA House of Delegates in Pittsburg on May 18.

LMEA Elections

 LMEA elections will be held May 16 in your building before and after work. If you are interested in running for an elected position, please contact Elaine DeStephano at Merion.

Retirement 2006

 If you plan to retire this year, the LMEA urges you to let us know and schedule an exit appointment with Human Resources as soon as possible. There is an advantage to declaring your retirement early with PSERS and understanding your retirement entitlements and benefits in advance of your retirement. Congratulations to all upcoming retirees!

LMEA Spring Banquet

 This year, the LMEA Spring Banquet will be held at Clothier Hall in Lower Merion on Wednesday, May 31. Please avoid scheduling events that will conflict with this date and mark your calendar to attend. This is always a spectacular event. Come and celebrate. This year we have combined the Banquet with the Annual LMEA Retiree luncheon. The evening will be an opportunity to reminisce with retired colleagues and co-workers as well. The cost is $35.00. Tickets will be sold as we get closer to event by your building rep.

Upcoming LMEA Events

March 15 General Membership Meeting (RA elections)

March 23-26 ESP Leadership Conference in Philadelphia

April 4 CAPS

April 5 Officers Meeting

April 17 Executive Council, PR&R

April 20 MER House of Delegates

May 3 Officers Meeting

May 8 Executive Council, PR&R

May 10 General Membership Meeting

May 16 LMEA Elections

May 19-21 PSEA House of Delegates in Pittsburgh

May 31 LMEA Spring Banquet

June 7 Officers meeting

June 12 Executive Council, PR&R

June 30-5 NEA Representative Assembly in Orlando

July 23-28 PSEA Leadership Conference in Gettsyburg

Executive Council meetings are held the second Monday of the month in the LMEA office at 4:00PM except April when it will be held on April 17, 2006.

Officers Meetings are held the Wednesday before Executive Council meetings at the LMEA office.

If you have any issues or concerns that you need addressed, please contact your building representative.