School and Community Winter 2023

SCHOOL & COMMUNITY The magazine for educators

WINTER 2023

ONE CHILD. ONE TUTOR. ONE SCHOOL YEAR. TWO LIVES FOREVER CHANGED. Intergenerational Reading Mentor Program Available to Missouri Schools!

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To Learn More About the Oasis Tutoring, Contact: Mary Click, National Tutoring Director (314) 862-2933, ext. 231 | mclick@oasisnet.org

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8 Member Profile

DEPARTMENTS

FEATURES

8 Member Profile: DeIla Ray

6 Education Policy

12 Get to Know Stacy Blakley

24 Professional Development

16 The Unsung Heroes of MSTA

28 Legal Services

44 Reading Circle

COLUMNS

46 Book Review

4 Leaning in to Vulnerability President's Column

MSTA HAPPENINGS

26 Richland Journalism Program by Kyle Carter

38 MSTA Presents Podcast

30 Mystery Theater Dinner by Pamela Clifton

39 FTA Signing Day Photos

42 Convention Recap

32 Chess in the Classroom by Phoebe Pohlman

30

34 Battling Burnout by Katie Mitchell

35 Common Bond Buddies Club by Tammy Hagely

32

36 Calling the Families by Shannon Berghoff

40 The Cardboard Challenge by Melody Drawbond

Cover: Lindsay James Images this page: stock.adobe.com,

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800 -392- 0532 • www.msta.org

Perspective

Leaning into Vulnerability

BY: MSTA PRESIDENT STACY BLAKLEY E mbracing our flaws is never easy. I fully realize I cannot do all things well. I love teaching most any content area with the exception of one - I do not love teaching math. I do not speak the language of math. To be clear, I can DO math (within reason), but I am aware that I do not explain it well. Math is at the bottom of my “favorite topics” list. At the end of last school year, one of my worst fears came true. I was told I would need to teach a sixth grade math class this school year. Anxiety started brewing. As the new school year drew near, I checked my class schedule and realized that I would be teaching not one math class, but TWO. At that point, my anxiety grew into a huge monster. How could I possibly do this? I played out every horrible scenario in my head. I felt so vulnerable and inept. My fear of teaching math completely overwhelmed my confidence in the other areas of teaching where I really excel. I took a deep breath and started looking for solutions. I utilized my greatest math resource, my husband Steve who has been teaching math for over 20 years. He pointed me to some great, free math tutorials. I used them to brush up on some concepts and am now able to explain those concepts in my classroom. I also have a really great teaching partner for math who provides me with a lot of support. I am definitely not in this alone. When school started and I stood in front of those bright young scholars for the very first time I felt all their excitement - it was palpable. Not only was this a new school year, this was a whole new building for them! I introduced myself and told them all about my husband, our children, my hobbies and our pets. I shared my classroom expectations and introduced the new math curriculum we would be using. Then I sat down with them and got real.

I did what, for some, is unthinkable. I got vulnerable with those kids. I told them I am not a lover of math. I don’t have confidence in math. I shared with them that I often second guess my answers and think my answers are wrong, even when they are right. I was so nervous and, honestly, I cried. I explained to them my goal for our class is that our confidence in math would grow this year. Do you have any idea what those kids did? They breathed a sigh of relief! They got up out of their chairs to give their new, crying teacher hugs. They told me they are nervous about math too. Something clicked for me at that moment. All the preparation that I did over the summer to learn to teach math better would never help me love the content. However, I DO love teaching and I DO want to teach these students who shared this moment with me. If you were to peek into my math classes today you would see kids working together to solve problems. You might see kids teaching other kids how to do math. You would certainly hear what we call “math talk.” You would probably see me make some funny faces when I try to figure out some random math problem, and maybe even do the happy dance if I get the answer right! A mentor of mine often tells me to “lean in” when times get hard or situations are uncomfortable. This is so challenging to do! It is often difficult to admit to those we are leading or teaching that we do not know everything. Vulnerability is hard AND so worth it. The simple, hard conversation we had at the beginning of school created an environment where we could all be real with each other. We are free to make mistakes and experience true growth. When you face uncertain situations in your professional or personal life, I encourage you to lean in. Own your weaknesses as well as your strengths. Be vulnerable and willing to grow.

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The magazine for Missouri educators

MSTA OFFICERS President, Stacy Blakley, St. James R-1 President-elect, Pam Lowe, Sikeston R-6 Vice president, Amy Kelsey, East Buchanan C-I Treasurer, Andrew Reynolds, Centralia R-VI Past president, Chuck Martin, Bolivar R-1

BOARD Kezia Bohanon, North Kansas City 74, Gtr. Kansas City Region Amanda Bradshaw, Mt. Vernon R-5, Southwest Region Tisha Clawson, Bolivar R-1, Southwest Region Dana Cravens, Richmond R-16, Central Region Diane Gonzales, East Newton Co. R-6, Southwest Region Noelle Horner, Hillsboro R-3, Jefferson County Region James Kreyling, Mehlville R-9, Greater St. Louis Region Tyler Lappe, Cape Girardeau 63, Southeast Region Beth Ogden, North St Francois Co R-1, Southeast Region Mindy Parshall, Hannibal 60, Northeast Region Andrew Reynolds, Centralia R-6, Northeast Region Ashley Stanton, St. Joseph, St Joseph Region Christopher Wright, Rolla 31, South Central Region

what’s a Credit Score ?

what are my rights & responsibilities as A tenant?

understanding a lease

MEMBER SERVICE COORDINATORS Kim Bielinski

Erin Burnham Jen Conner Tracy Darian Aubry Kruse Mike Martin Sarah Papineau

Glenn Bussen Keri Cottrell Marca Hayter

what’s an appraisal?

the home buying process

Ryan Lewis

Shaelynn Nordwald

the benefits of buying a home

Mindy Walker

Mike Walsh

what is mortgage interest?

Please recycle me! When you finish reading your School & Community

MSTA COMMUNICATIONS Administrative Assistant Jennifer Bacon Director of Marketing and Communication Todd Fuller Design & Video Coordinator Michael Lising Digital Strategist/Project Manager Kara Potter Creative Media Specialist Lindsay James

high

Rent

what is equity ?

sell or remodel?

Bruce Moe

MSTA Executive Director

PUBLICATION POLICY Articles published in School & Community do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Missouri State Teachers Association.

magazine, please consider recycling by sharing with your physician’s office. Just cover up your mailing label with a blank one and you will be set. Let’s spread the word about Missouri’s teachers!

Advertising: Only those products, services and programs endorsed by the Board of Directors of the Missouri State Teachers Association may carry such notification. Advertising in School & Community does not imply such endorsement. Indexed by “Education Index.” It is the policy of the Missouri State Teachers Association

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not to publish materials or advertising that would promote a competing organization or be detrimental to the Missouri State Teachers Association.

It’s Your Move is an exciting free online course developed for high school juniors and seniors. Through a series of short videos, case studies, and interactive quizzes, students learn important information about Consumer Credit , Renting , Buying , and Selling a home. This free course meets Missouri Learning Standards and can be accessed at ItsYourMoveMissouri.org

Copyright © 2023, Missouri State Teachers Association. All rights reserved, including the right to reprint any article, photograph, cartoon or artwork published herein. School & Community (ISSN 0036-6447) is published three times during the year by the Missouri State Teachers Association. Non-profit bulk postage paid at Columbia, Mo., and at additional mailing office. Annual subscription price of $15 is included in membership dues. Current single copies cost $3.75. Postmaster: Send address changes to School & Community, 407 S. Sixth St., P.O. Box 458, Columbia, MO 65205-0458.

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We want to hear from you Share your thoughts on our publications, suggest article topics or express an opinion about education in Missouri. Write: School & Community, P.O. Box 458, Columbia, MO 65205 Phone: 800-392-0532 Email: editor@msta.org

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800-392-0532 www.msta.org

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What to Expect this Legislative Session W ith another new year underway, the Missouri State Teachers Association has clear guidance frommembers on the Education Policy K-12 transportation and support for new programs passed by the legislature in previous sessions, including changes regarding competency-based reading programs. Missouri education employees and retirees have seen

BY: MATT MICHELSON, DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION POLICY

Priorities for 2023. For those unfamiliar with the process, MSTAmembers’ voices are always the deciding factor in the positions that are taken by the MSTA Education Policy team. Throughout the year, the MSTA Education Policy Department takes recommendations on changes to the MSTA Adopted Resolutions. The MSTA Education Policy Committee, comprised of MSTAmembers from across the state, analyzes the proposals then sends them to open hearings in each region. The proposals are then discussed and voted on by delegates at the MSTA Assembly of Delegates to modify the MSTA Adopted Resolutions. These resolutions are the guiding document for advocacy positions. After the assembly has concluded, the Education Policy Committee meets again to vote on the MSTA Education Policy Priorities. The voices of MSTAmembers are important in this internal process, but it is also vital that they are building relationships with elected officials. Nothing can replace the connection between an elected official and their constituent. They are in the office to represent you. We know there will be many important issues in the legislature this session, yet I want to highlight a few that I think are worth mentioning to your legislators. You can stay up to date on these issues by reading MSTA Action each week during the session. Teacher pay will again be front and center during this legislative session. MSTA supports continued dedicated state monies to increase the minimum teacher salary to $42,000. MSTA believes that all education employees’ salaries must be increased to deliver the best possible education to the students of the state. Last session, MSTA was successful in lobbying to restart a revamped version of career ladder, as well as securing $37 million to fund the program. This programwill need to be funded again this session. The legislature created a voluntary 70/30 grant match program to raise beginning teacher salaries to $38,000. This program was a good start, but there is still work to be done as Missouri education employees fall further behind other states and industries with similar credentials. MSTA supports the expansion of this program to reach more districts, more school employees and include a component that would allow districts to address compression of their salary schedules. This would ensure that all employees of the school district would see an increase in pay. Other important funding issues the legislature must address this session include fully funding

increased support for the retirement system in the legislature during previous sessions. It seems that this trend should be maintained as the retirement system continues to be well managed and responsive to the needs of all members. However, there are important proposed changes that would benefit students, teachers and retirees. This includes bringing back the 2.55% benefit factor for those with 31 or more years of service, benefitting students by keeping highly qualified educators in the classroom and not negatively impacting the financial health of the system. On the federal level, MSTA continues to oppose the harmful and unfair Government Pension Offset andWindfall Elimination Provisions. MSTAmembers at the annual MSTA Assembly of Delegates voted to be clear in their opposition to open enrollment , yet there will be a push by Missouri legislators to make Missouri an open enrollment state. Open enrollment would allow students to attend the district of their choice regardless of where they reside. Past versions of the legislation claim to create a “voluntary” system, yet it is only voluntary as to whether a district accepts students and if a transfer student decides at any time to return to the resident district, the resident district is again responsible for the education of that student. This policy will lead to school consolidation and to many districts struggling to maintain the educational programs currently offered, such as FFA, choir, band and athletics. A provision in previous versions of the bill allows districts to deny students based on special education status if the transfer district determines they cannot meet the students’ needs, allowing districts to discriminate against students. Open enrollment will pit schools against one another to compete for students and the funding associated with them. Funding that would normally go toward student learning would be spent on recruiting students and competing with neighboring districts. Missouri has amazing teachers and school staff - we must be the disruptors and break through the negative narratives that many perpetuate. Let’s show our leaders that all Missouri students deserve quality schools that benefit Missouri families and communities. Don’t forget to check MSTA Action each Friday during session and sign up for the MSTA Rapid Response program by texting “MSTA” to 52886.

2023 MSTA EDUCATION POLICY PRIORITIES “A general diffusion of knowledge and intelligence being essential to the preservation of the rights and liberties of the people, the general assembly shall establish and maintain free public schools for the gratuitous instruction of all persons in this state within ages not in excess of twenty-one years as prescribed by law.” Missouri Constitution Article IX, Section 1(a). State Issues Supporting Educators for Recruitment and Retention Raising Education Professional Salaries: • MSTA supports a comprehensive

and autonomy of the local school district to develop and adopt curriculum, assessments, evaluations, and other programs to meet educational goals. • MSTA opposes any plan that would use student grades, student class performance or student performance on standardized tests as the single criteria to measure the merit of the teacher. Teacher Retirement: A secure and stable defined-benefit retirement program is vital to recruiting and retaining highly qualified and effective educators. Actuarially sound improvements to the system continue to strengthen the Missouri public educators’ financial futures. Transitioning work after retirement from a limit on the number of hours worked to an earnings limit for Public School Retirement System (PSRS) will further simplify burdensome requirements on employees and districts. Federal Issues Retirement and Social Security: • MSTA opposes any state or federal proposal to group the teachers’ retirement system funds with Social Security. In addition, the association opposes provisions that deprive teachers of their earned social security benefits. • MSTA opposes the Government Pension Offset as well as the Windfall Elimination Provision. Federal Influence in Education: • MSTA supports requiring existing funding and future increases in federal dollars be delivered directly to the local school district whenever possible and increased focus on distributing federal dollars back to the classroom. MSTA Opposes • MSTA opposes state restrictions or limitations placed on any federal COVID-19 pandemic relief funding for public education that go beyond federal rule or law. • MSTA opposes limiting the ability of employees to discuss working conditions with their employer. • MSTA opposes federal supersession over state and local responsibility for public education, including assessments that set standards and drive curriculum. • MSTA opposes any proposal to eliminate or weaken the teacher tenure law. • MSTA opposes school vouchers, education tax credits, or education savings accounts, that would divert public money to pay for homeschooling or private school tuition. • MSTA opposes merit pay, including the use of standardized test scores or other subjective criteria as a measurement of teacher performance or to determine further salary increases.

• MSTA opposes lawmakers slipping back into the past practice of underfunding public education in Missouri. Educator Safety and Student Accountability: • MSTA supports solutions to the problem of violence in schools, including alternative placement programs for students removed from the classroom due to behavioral concerns and efforts in providing funding for alternative programs in addition to the school foundation formula. • MSTA supports clear and consistently applied discipline policies for student behavior that prioritize safe and productive learning environments for all students and education employees. Students should be held responsible and accountable for maintaining a safe school environment. • MSTA supports increased involvement and responsibility by parents for their children’s attendance, performance, and behavior in public schools. Missouri teacher surveys conducted by MSTA consistently show that the leading reason teachers consider leaving the profession are disrespect, student behavior, the lack of classroom support. These issues go beyond classroom management, and impact not only education staff, but other students in classrooms as well. According to the MSTA Educator Wellness survey, the leading factor for educator stress was student behavior. standards of other schools in the district, and tenure status should not be reduced or lost as a result of teaching in the public charter school. • MSTA supports expanding high speed internet access. Assessment and Evaluation Reform: The single biggest factor in the success of students is the teacher. MSTA believes that teacher input is vital to the continued success of our students. Local districts must have the freedom to meet the needs of their communities without being controlled by state or federal education departments. • MSTA supports the use of locally developed assessments to improve instruction. • MSTA supports local control of public education by the district board of education

program utilizing both legislation and the appropriations process to increase the minimum teacher salary to $42,000 as well as increases to all public education staff members. Education professional salaries must be addressed with support to local districts from the state. Funds must also be available to help districts with salary schedule compression. • MSTA supports continued state funding of the Career Ladder program, allowing educators to earn an additional stipend for engaging students in activities that enrich the student, school, and community. The average teacher salary in Missouri is far below the national average and compared to other states, the average beginning teacher salary is one of the lowest in the United States. Missouri’s inadequately paid professionals are expected to deliver student performance results that are above average. While states surrounding Missouri continue to increase teacher pay, Missouri falls further and further behind national trends in teacher compensation. Full Transportation Funding: In 2022, the state legislature fully funded the school foundation formula, as well as the transportation reimbursement. The legislature is legally obligated to fully fund Missouri’s students, including full payments for reimbursable transportation costs to allow the best possible public schools in communities across the state. Local Control • MSTA opposes legislative actions involving inter-district choice. Open enrollment fails to serve the needs of all students in the community to receive a quality education, increasing student mobility while creating further funding inequities. • MSTA supports each school district developing a written policy for transfer and assignment of students within a district and to any other school district. • MSTA supports public charter school expansion when charters are granted by the local school board within an existing accredited Missouri public school district and requires all members of a public charter school board to be residents of the district in which the charter school serves. Charter school expansion should include requirements that charter schools have the same certification and compensation

MEMBER PROFILE

Chasing a Spark: Welding instructor embraces life journey and inspires the next generation

STORY AND PHOTOS BY LINDSAY JAMES A ccording to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2020 only 3.8% of welding, soldering and brazing workers were women. In an ever evolving industry, this statistic is subject to change and one MSTA member is determined to lead the way. DeIla Ray is the newest addition to the welding instructional team at the Davis H. Hart Career Center in Mexico, Mo. which offers a variety of career and technical programs to secondary students from nine

area schools. Although Ray has flourished in the role since starting in September, becoming a teacher was not originally in her career plan – nor was welding. Through life’s changes, Ray developed a unique skill set, inf luenced by her parents’ own tenacity and drive to succeed. “My father was a drill sergeant in the military and my mom was a marksman shooter. She also trained military police on how to drive Humvees and later worked in the

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prison systems for years,” Ray explained. “They are very strong-willed and always told me that there wasn’t anything I wouldn’t be able to do in life.” While Ray initially studied nursing and psychology, her interests shifted and eventually led her to the STEM industry. Her husband, Jack, was a journeyman pipefitter in North Dakota at the time and, when opportunity came knocking, she joined his company as a fire watch. “I sat on a bucket while others performed spark producing work, and I made sure the space and the workers did not catch fire,” Ray said. “As cliché as it might sound, that experience lit a fire within me.” Determined to ignite that same spark, Ray completely immersed herself in learning the welding trade. With several years of experience under her belt as a combo pipe welder and certifications from groups such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the American Welding Society, Ray is now a force to be reckoned with in the industry. Following their time spent traveling the country for extensive jobs, the Rays moved back to Missouri and founded their own business. The Alpha Duo LLC. specializes in custom welding and fabrication of many materials including metals, wood, fabrics and glass. Clients bring unique ideas to the married team who jumps at the opportunity to bring meaningful projects to life. One of their most impactful projects was created for the Pleasant Valley Fire Station – a sculpture of the World Trade Center, welded from real debris from the buildings’ collapse. The Rays worked alongside other professionals to construct the beautiful sculpture in 2021, complete with an intricate water feature. This structure is housed at the fire station and will stand as a memorial for generations to come.

When the Rays are not on the job, they keep busy at a local tattoo studio - Jack and his brother are the shop’s artists while DeIla specializes in piercing. This is yet another creative outlet for the hardworking couple. Still, amidst all her success, Ray longed to become a mentor and pave the way for others. Through local connections, she met a young teenage girl who wished to learn about welding and decided to offer private lessons. This interaction led Ray to hear about an opening at the Davis H. Hart Career Center for an additional welding instructor. After interviewing for the position and demonstrating her skill, Ray took a leap of passion and accepted the role. She never saw herself in a teaching position but craved the opportunity to open doors for others to enter the industry. Everything fell into place quickly and the transition into a school-based schedule was abrupt, but Ray has found the commitment worthwhile. “Bringing my experience into this program, I'm able to offer a completely different, non-traditional perspective,” Ray said. “I’m proof that if you put in the work, show up and try, there are a lot of opportunities for welding. Whether they're going to do it in their own shop, at a manufacturing company, on the road or on the pipeline, these students can make great money right out of school.” Together with long-time HCC instructor Scott Ulrich, Ray works to educate and prepare students for welding certifications that can be carried out of school and into their future career paths. Students are given the opportunity to pass exams like the qualitative bend test to evaluate the functionality of the material being welded. Advanced stations are also available to test different position methods of welding, including overhead

Above: DeIla Ray exhibits welding skills in a booth at the Hart Career Center. Middle: The Rays' 9/11 tribute sculpture stands at Pleasant Valley Fire Station. Far right: Ray welds in an industrial environment while on a job. Submitted photo.

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and horizontal stations. This experience is crucial for students to gain perspective on real world working environments, including an outdoor station to test their ability to weld in variable elements. Regardless of experience or skill, all students with an interest in learning are encouraged to join the program. With the proper education, supervision and tools, most anyone could learn the trade. Ray’s students have already accomplished huge milestones in their careers, including participation in contests like SkillsUSA. She hopes to propel the program to new heights and expand its diversity as well. In some labor industries, workers can be stigmatized with classification of roles to a specific gender. Ray firmly believes that these stereotypes are outdated and inaccurate in the welding industry – women are welcome to learn and work in the same roles as men. “This is not a male dominated field,” Ray emphasized. “There may be more men in those positions or in those industries, but that doesn't mean they're dominating. Roles may be more male populated, but that does not mean women can't succeed in those same fields. Changing the language we use in these scenarios is so important.” Another great accomplishment in Ray’s career is her involvement with a group called Empowering Women in Industry. They work with a mission to “connect, educate and empower women who will not only inspire the next generation of leaders, but provide a community for those currently leading.” In 2020, the group honored Ray with their Tradeswoman of the Year award, followed by the Industry Advocacy and Mentor of the Year awards in 2022. These recent honors were recognized and celebrated by the Mexico School District. The trophies now sit on Ray’s desk as a reminder of all she’s achieved. “I have had so much reach to other avenues in life through the work I’ve done,” Ray mused. “And now the space they [Empowering Women in Industry] have created shines light on women like me that are doing this kind of work. They really help you believe in yourself and make a difference.”

Clockwise from above: A welding student models a handcrafted MSTA sign. She is the primary operator of the machinery and its design software. The Alpha Duo works together to weld a pipe while on the job. DeIla Ray poses in the Hart Career Center's welding shop. Ray oversees a student in the welding booth.

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Ray’s own impact on the industry has been both subliminal and tangible. Upon entering the profession, she quickly noticed that none of the personal protective equipment provided was made to fit a woman’s body. “Gear is often oversized - I've had jackets that went past my knees and button ups that were too tight around my chest and hips,” Ray added. “It was a hazard and did not protect me properly.” With these issues in mind, Ray has collaborated with industry clothing manufacturers to develop and test options that fit varying body types. With the John Tillman Company, Ray has helped assess and develop PPE that is specifically made for women. "As companies step-up and acknowledge the presence of women in industry and the necessity of proper fitting and working protective wear, they are helping fill a huge void that has been hindering women from utilizing their full scope of abilities," Ray explained. Young women in the HCC welding program now have access to gloves and other gear that fit properly as well, due to Ray’s efforts (though these gloves have not been released for public sale yet). This is just one step that she has taken thus far in her classroom career to accommodate and advance the next generation of industry leaders. Through networking, Ray is showing the young ladies in class that companies are listening. “These companies now know that we, as women, are here and they are actively working to better prepare women for their jobs,” she said. Ray has traveled to the Hart Career Center's contributing districts to recruit and inspire new participants. She is hopeful that more young women will pursue interest in the industry and develop

their careers accordingly. When she arrives at school each morning, Ray is fueled by the excitement of witnessing her students’ growth. Whether they launch a career or merely step out of their comfort zones to try a new hobby, she is proud to have contributed. This is a satisfying feeling, she noted. “Every time I put my hood on and I go into a booth out there, I'm helping someone get better to where they can potentially change their entire life.” Because she has enjoyed her role as an instructor at HCC so much, Ray is currently enrolled in school to achieve her full teaching degree. Ironically, one of the course requirements had already been fulfilled years ago when Ray studied as a psychology major. When the world comes full circle in this way, fate is hard to ignore. “Coming back to school and teaching, then going back to school myself is something I didn't think that I would ever be doing, but I'm ready to tackle it all and see where this path leads me,” Ray said. “That first welding spark has led me many places over the years and now I get to witness that in the students – it's really special. Opportunity is always knocking at the door. If you're willing to open it and go for a wild ride, you might just find your passion.”

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Get to Know Stacy Blakley

STORY AND PHOTOS BY LINDSAY JAMES

On November 18, 2022, Stacy Blakley took the stage at the 160 th Convention of the Missouri State Teachers Association and assumed the title of State President. Having previously served as MSTA President-Elect and Vice President, as well as on the AB&R Committee, Blakley is well prepared for the role. The following is an excerpt of a conversation with Lindsay James, MSTA’s Creative Media Specialist, during a behind-the-scenes look at a day in Stacy’s life teaching at St. James Middle School.

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Far left: Stacy Blakley is all smiles at St. James Middle School! Left: Blakley displays a creative collage of personal memories on her classroom wall.

Which subjects and grade levels do you currently teach? My official title is Keyboarding Teacher, but that hasn’t been updated in a few years. I am currently teaching the eighth grade careers class, seventh and eighth grade agriculture and sixth grade math. What do you look forward to every day when you come to school? What gets you in the car and driving down to St. James from your home in Rolla? My favorite part of coming to school every day is the relationships that I have, not only with my students, but with my coworkers and, obviously, with our service dog. Just getting to know them and being there for their ups and downs, their struggles and the fun times and the hard times. I know that we’ve built a family here and we really do depend upon each other. We have all of the good times and all the bad times, but we’re here for each other. And that’s what people ask me - why do I teach in St. James and why do I travel? That’s why... It’s often said flippantly that we’re like family, but I really think that we’re the functional part of a family.

When did you initially join the association? Was teaching your first career?

My husband was a teacher before I became one. I used to work in mental healthcare with a degree in psychology. I worked with adults with developmental disabilities and was a program coordinator for an agency. We started having children and I decided to stay home with my four girls for many years. After my youngest began preschool, I started back to school and got certified to be a teacher. Education became my passion and then MSTA became my passion. I decided immediately that I was going to be an SMSTA member and even went to convention with a friend. Sitting in that convention, I remember thinking, “I’m gonna do this. I am committed. I want to be a leader in MSTA.” After watching your lunch duty shift today in the cafeteria, I can tell that your students are very eager to approach you and it seems like you can relate to them on certain levels. Would you agree? Definitely. One of the reasons this school is such a good fit for me is because we participate in the Capturing Kids’ Hearts discipline program. What that means is that we build relationships and focus on

Meet Mookie! That wasn’t just any golden ball of fluff running down the hallway - Mookie is an honorary MSTA member and therapy dog at St. James Middle School. He comes to school on most days with his owner, guidance counselor Sarah Baker. Mookie spends his days bringing joy to students and staff. Blakley cites Mookie’s calm, loving disposition for many happy moments in the classroom. Students are comforted by his presence and often participate in activities to earn the opportunity to read with Mookie.

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that. We greet students at the door. Every class period we do “good news” and in my classroom, its student led. The students share and then they ask each other, “What’s your good news?” Sometimes it’s huge, good news and sometimes they just make something up. Either way, it’s fantastic because it gives you a glimpse into their personal life and it lets you know where they’re at and gives you some points to connect with. I always share good news as well, which helps them get to know me better. It allows me to be transparent with the kids and tell them, “My daughter came to visit!” or “I had a really great cup of coffee this morning.” It builds a connection, and we can often find something to build on. I love teaching... I love teaching in a middle school, and I really love building those relationships. Being referred to as the school mom is kind of my thing. I want to help build their confidence and give them the tools that they need to be successful. What is one piece of advice you like to give your students? It’s okay to fail. That’s where true growth comes from. We don’t get better at anything by always being successful at it. Being comfortable and confident enough to fail at something - and to fail in front of someone else - that’s hard. That’s really hard. My classroom is an environment where that’s okay. We’re going to learn together and come prepared with resources. MSTA is totally a family ordeal. When Steve and I started going to events together and first attended a legislative day, I had assumed that Steve knew Bruce [Moe]. They actually hadn’t met, so Bruce said, “Oh, you must be Mr. Stacy.” And so that stuck, and one year we had Steve’s delegate card changed to say Mr. Stacy. Steve and I were teasingly coined “the MSTA power couple” a few years ago and it’s pretty funny. There’s a School and Community article from awhile back of Steve and I wearing Mr. President and Mrs. President shirts because I was the CTA president in Waynesville while Steve was the CTA president in Rolla. So, that being said, we just have a really good time. We enjoy spending time together and building relationships with others. What does MSTA mean to your family?

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What are you most excited about this year during your presidency? I am super excited this year to be part of the new normal in our society and within MSTA. We’ve all had so much trauma in the past few years throughout the pandemic and it’s exciting to be part of resetting and creating a new baseline for what normal is. We’ve got to work together to be better and that’s totally where we’re at now. I want to continue with the things that Halley [Russell] and Chuck [Martin] and the previous presidents have started and to be a voice for educators at the Capitol and everywhere in the state. I hope to boost the overall sense of morale and be the champion of getting teachers the respect they deserve. Teaching is really hard right now. Actually, education in general is hard. It’s difficult to be a student, it’s difficult to be a teacher and it’s also difficult to be a parent. I think we should all remember to look at it through the right lens and work together. We need to remember that we’re all on the same team and we’re all working collectively toward empowering students and creating a better society. What are some facts about yourself that others may not know? I love to travel and go on road trips to weird places. We went to the Jell-O Museum, the world’s smallest city block and the world’s largest pecan. I love interesting things like that. Also on my list is the largest ball of twine and the SPAM Museum. We all need to have more spontaneity in life to do things like that. Steve and I often kayak with friends and play board games. That’s where you can find us on Friday nights – playing board games and going out to eat Mexican food. Our four daughters are all out of the house. Our oldest and youngest both live in Springfield and our middle two live in Baltimore and Oklahoma. Another thing about me is that I decorate my classroom with the ampersand symbol and even have it tattooed as a sign of perseverance. Is there anything else that you’d like for MSTA members to know about you? I’m in the classroom every day just like you. I have struggles and hard days and fantastic days. I am here for you 100% and really want you to know that you can reach out to me at any time with the hard stories if you’re going through a tough time, or the success stories and funny stories. I will do my best to do the same. We are here together; we will support each other, and we will make this year the best year ever.

Clockwise from top left: The Blakley family enjoys time together. Students gather with Blakley at lunch. Mookie rests after a hard day of being Dog President of MSTA. Sixth-graders visit with Blakley in the hallway.

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Recipients of the 2022 Unsung Heroes of MSTA Award were chosen by the MSTA member service coordinators. The award recognizes those who have made a substantive yet unrecognized contribution to MSTA and our mission to advocate for and empower public educators so they can teach.

These recipients are admired for their courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. Some factors of consideration for selecting these individuals may include: • Individual leadership style • Understanding of MSTA’s mission • Actions which reflect MSTA’s mission • Commitment and follow through to the leadership role and CTA • Service beyond the CTA to children, their school district, the community, or MSTA • Interpersonal and communication skills • Creative thinking and problem solving • Ability to handle crisis or extreme circum stances in their role as a CTA leader

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Erin Dieckmann School district: Lafayette County C-1 School building: Grandview Elementary Grade level/subject: Kindergarten and 1st

Holly Smith School district: Mountain View-Birch Tree R-3 School building: Liberty Middle School Grade level/subject: 8th Grade American History

grade Special Education Years teaching: 19 years Years in MSTA: 19 years Roles in MSTA: CTA President

Years teaching: 19 Years in MSTA: 19 Roles in MSTA: CTA treasurer, president Why did you get involved with MSTA? I love the fact that MSTA supports teachers with a $2 million professional liability insurance policy. We also have a voice that is heard in Jefferson City. I feel like our profession is under a microscope more than any other career. Our expectations are high and pay is low. We have every right to speak up and demand better for ourselves; MSTA gives us this voice! I believe that when the state starts putting teachers first, they will put students first. What has been a recent win for you? In 2022, we have more teachers in leadership positions within our CTA. Mountain View-Birch Tree has four different buildings, miles apart. These “take charge” teachers have done a great job collecting dues and passing on necessary information. What is one of your goals for 2023? I believe that teachers are in trenches, so to speak. It’s hard to explain what is going on in a classroom to someone that has never taught. My goal for 2023 is to make Mountain View-Birch Tree’s CTA more tenacious, more focused and louder.

Why did you get involved with MSTA? I got involved in Student MSTA when I was in college and loved everything about the organization. I believe MSTA wants to stand behind every teacher and advocate for them. They understand that every teacher needs a support system and I believe they do a wonderful job at supporting all of us teachers. What has been a recent win for you? I went from teaching fourth and fifth grade special education to teaching kindergarten and first grade, which was a huge jump. I feel as though I have embraced the change and am making the most of each and every day with my students. What is one of your goals for 2023? One of my goals for the upcoming year is to do more self-reflection. I think self-reflection leads you to not only learn things about yourself as a person and as a teacher, but it allows you to grow and change in a positive way.

Casey Burch School District: Farmington R-7 School Building: Farmington High School Grade level/subject: 9-12+ special education, ELA, social studies, transition Years Teaching: 18 Years in MSTA: 19 Roles in MSTA: Farmington R-7 CTA Vice President

Leigh Ann Dunn School district: Savannah R-3 School building: Minnie Cline Grade level/subject: Special Education

Paraprofessional Years teaching: 9 Years in MSTA: 9

Why did you get involved with MSTA? Several years ago, I was asked to join our local CTA officer team. Since then, I have served as treasurer and I am currently the vice president. I absolutely love working with the other officers, building representatives and administration to support our students, staff and community! What has been a recent win for you? A recent win for me (and my local CTA) was increasing our membership by speaking with new teachers during their training before the start of school and signing up 30+ members for MSTA and CTA. What is one of your goals for 2023? My goal is to help others be as successful as possible!

Why did you get involved with MSTA? Legal and grant assistance. What has been a recent win for you? Seeing the growth of my students. What is one of your goals for 2023? I hope to continue learning and growing alongside each of the kiddos I provide services for.

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Megan McReynolds School district: Jefferson City

Misty Grandel School district: Fordland R-3 School building: Fordland High School Grade level/subject: 9-12 english, spanish, communications Years teaching: 28 Years in MSTA: 20+ Roles in MSTA: Member, presenter, advocate

School building: Capital City High School Grade level/subject: 9-12 PLTW Biomedical Science courses.

Years teaching: 16 Years in MSTA: 13 Roles in MSTA: Building-level Rep for JC CTA/ MSTA, High School Rep for JC CTA/MSTA Welfare Committee, Vice President for JC CTA/MSTA, President for JC CTA/MSTA Why did you get involved with MSTA? I wanted to be an advocate for the betterment of staff and students within our district through open communication and collaboration with our district Board Office Administration. I wanted to advocate from a solution-based approach to situations to truly see growth within not only our district but also in the teaching profession. What has been a recent win for you? Between both teacher organizations within our district, we have established monthly welfare meetings to have ongoing discussions in regard to improving our district. Whether it is salary discussions, climate/ culture concerns, positive feedback regarding changes in the district, teacher retention discussions, etc., opening up two-way communication has been a huge positive impact in our district between board office administration and staff. What is one of your goals for 2023? To get more members involved in the process that advocates for the betterment of their profession. Whether that be within their building, within the district, or even within the state. MSTA provides so many resources to assist educators in this profession and it only benefits them as educators. Years teaching: 16 Years in MSTA: 16 Roles in MSTA: Building representative, CTA secretary, CTA scholarship committee member, chair of the state credentials committee Why did you get involved with MSTA? I was encouraged by mentoring teachers to benefit from the many things MSTA had to offer me. What has been a recent win for you? I completed my gifted education certification during the first two years of teaching in my current position. What is one of your goals for 2023? I want to fully enjoy my youngest son’s last two years of high school before he heads off to college and fully support him in all of his pursuits! Jamie Martin School District: Bolivar R-1 School Building: Bolivar Intermediate School Grade level/subject: 1st-6th grade gifted

Why did you get involved with MSTA? MSTA is an outstanding organization focusing on real issues facing classroom teachers and students in Missouri. They champion causes that make a huge difference in the daily lives of school community members. I am incredibly proud to be a part of their advocacy and overall body of work. What has been a recent win for you? A recent win for me outside the classroom would be the work in which I have been involved regarding teacher recruitment and retention on the state’s Blue Ribbon Commission. I believe the committee has designated goals that will make a substantial difference in the teaching profession in Missouri, and especially in rural communities across our state. Inside the classroom, a recent win is the excitement I see in my senior students’ faces as they hang up college acceptance letters on our classroom bulletin board. The joy and hope for the future they can’t help but exude makes this profession more than worthwhile! What is one of your goals for 2023? One goal I have for the coming year is to convince as many people - students and adults - as possible to consider the teaching profession. I don’t regret one day I’ve spent in the classroom, and I know so many others would find the same joy I have if they would just give spending time with students a chance! Teachers are the number one factor in student success, and I believe there is nothing greater someone can choose as their life’s work.

Lana Moore School building: Mt. Vernon High School Grade level/subject: 9-12 Special Services Years teaching: I have been in Education for 40 years. I began my journey as a Paraprofessional as I was finishing my degree. Years in MSTA: 36 Roles in MSTA: I have had many roles in MSTA

beginning with building representative, and have served as secretary, vice president, president-elect, and president (three separate terms) for my local CTA. I began serving on various SWRTA committees for my region when I found my desire to do more for our profession. I have served as member at large on the Southwest Region Board, vice president, president-elect, and president, and am now once more president- elect for the Great Southwest. I have served this incredible organization as a member at large on the State Board of Directors for two terms and loved every minute of it. Why did you get involved with MSTA? My mother, aunt and sister were all members of MSTA. There was never a question whether to join or not. I have my mother’s 1936 membership card. MSTA is in our blood and I want to continue their legacy in serving the teachers and students of our state by being involved and letting my voice be heard.

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