We were very fortunate to have a mild winter. I think everyone welcomes spring. Along with spring, comes election time.

School elections will be held on April 17th. Many districts won’t hold April election if their budgets came in under the 2% cap. There are still some elections being held. As always, we must stand behind these budgets. The schools do reflect your property values. It is in our best interest to support them.

Just as a clarification, any donations you make to PAC goes to electing pro-education legislators. They will help those that are active and protect the pensions and benefits of our retirees.

Our Philanthropic Committee will be meeting soon to discuss the possibility of an OCREA Scholarship. We will keep you posted. This endeavor cannot happen overnight. It will take time to create.

It has been rather quiet lately. I don’t know if I’m waiting for the other shoe to drop or what!! We still need to be vigilant. We never thought we would see the end of our COLA, but that is gone. I don’t think I’ll be around to see it re-instated. We must always be advocates for education. Our schools are not failing the majority of New Jersey students. The percentage of students going on to college is still among the highest in the nation. We cannot do away with tenure. We know, from experience, giving up tenure will nurture nepotism. The education-reform proposals by Gov. Christie are dangerous. When your neighbors ask, tell them what you think and why.

I urge you to go to our website. Ceil Colon has done a wonderful job and many other counties have now followed suit. On the site, you will get all information regarding government relations, pensions, member benefits, our trips and luncheons. For further information on a state level, please visit njea.org.

As retirees, we have so much to be thankful for each day. We can read a book when we want, travel if we feel like it and not worry about being put on the internet by a student. With all that we have achieved, we must never become complacent. We should be aware of events taking place around us locally, and at the state and national levels.

Enjoy spring and I hope I see you at our May 17th luncheon.

Regards,

Peggy Keane