1. From the Gongwer News Service Ohio Report
Volume #81, Report #233 -- Monday, December 3, 2012
Education Notes: OEA Joins Advocacy Coalition; UD Civic Scholars Program
Receives $50,000; School Choice Tour To Stop In Ohio
Ohio Education Association delegates voted to join the Strong Schools, Strong Communities
campaign in its mission of informing and engaging Ohioans and spreading stories of excellence in
public schools.
The group, which is made up of other public education advocacy organizations but led by individual
parents and community members, is based on the idea that strong communities are rooted in
successful schools. (See Gongwer Ohio Report, November 9, 2012)
"School districts need time to understand, absorb and implement new ways of doing things." OEA
President Patricia Frost-Brooks said in a release. "We must join together to take collective action
based on fairness and our belief that every student deserves a great public school."
The delegates at the OEA Fall Representative Assembly also recognized the 11 OEA member
candidates who were on the ballot in November.
"OEA is committed to electing representatives who understand and support public education in
Ohio," Ms. Frost-Brooks said. "OEA is proud of these candidates who share our commitment to
transforming public education and the success of every child."
Statehouse Scholars: The University of Dayton on Monday said a $50,000 contribution from the
AT&T Foundation will allow the school to maintain its Statehouse Civic Scholars Program for a third
year and beyond.
The program provides housing and a living expense stipend for 12 students who are pursuing work
experience in state government before graduation.
"Equipping our students to graduate ready for the workforce is an important issue for students, our
company and our country. Without key college and career readiness skills, students miss out on
significant work and life opportunities," AT&T Ohio President Tom Pelto said. "Our company and
every American business need an educated workforce to compete globally, and we are thrilled to
partner with the University of Dayton's Statehouse Civic Scholars Program."
For both of the past two summers, 12 students worked in the offices of Gov. John Kasich, Attorney
General Mike DeWine and Secretary of State Jon Husted, among others.
"We are developing the next generation of excellent and ethical public servants in Ohio, teaching
them valuable networking skills and, hopefully, giving them a reason to work and live in Ohio after
graduation," Statehouse Civic Scholars Program coordinator Eileen Austria said.
"We're also trying to take out the deal breakers, like living and travel expenses. If we want kids to
stay in Ohio, we have to find ways to get them in the door (of internships at places like state
government). You have to give them a reason to stay in Ohio."