ISTA-R Politics

A main purpose of ISTA-R is to support public education. Even if our children or grandchildren attend a non-public school, we realize that publicly supported public education is not only a Constitutional requirement, but also a pillar of democracy that must be funded.

To that end, our Indiana Political Action Education Committee, so well represented by Jack Spindler and our January ISTA speaker, keeps us informed about the stance of our government representatives on this single issue. Your generous donations to IPACE have shown your concern and interest.

Our Fort Wayne ISTA R council/group has two meetings, Jan. 14 at Chops and March 10 at the winery, to learn about public education issues and especially the representatives and candidates who will implement laws and regulations concerning education in Indiana.

Many people working to bring forward and clarify these issues often hear, “I don’t vote in the primary, but I will vote in November for President.” And we ask, “Why? Why not vote in the primary? Indiana, despite Governor Pence’s best, or worst efforts, remains Republican. To make our votes count, let’s learn about the many Republicans and Democrats in the primary and their views on public education, and not just learn about the final two on the November ballot when often the party not the issues count most.”

On Monday, January 25th, we invite all members of ISTA-R to attend a screening of the video “Education, INC” to be presented at the FWEA-ISTA office (adjacent to Brown-Mackie College). Following the viewing, Glenda Ritz will address the FWEA RA and our membership. The movie will begin at 3:00 and lasts approximately 45 minutes. The RA will begin at 4:15 with Ms. Ritz’ presentation.

At our January and March meetings as well as at the FWEA RA, let’s take a few extra moments to ask questions and listen carefully. After all, if we veteran teachers don’t prepare ourselves to vote wisely on public education issues, who will?

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