THE HENTON HEADLINES
October 26, 2023

Senator Kunesh Request

I received questions from our colleagues about why I forwarded Senator Kunesh’s request to superintendents regarding Indigenous People’s Day and the education mandate that accompanies celebrating that day. It is true that superintendents do not report to one senator, there is no mandated report about instruction delivered that day required by statute, and superintendents look to MDE for guidance and accountability.

I was copied on many responses to Senator Kunesh, Chair of the Senate Education Finance Committee, detailing the resources used in classrooms that day and the effective lessons delivered. I also noted what superintendents shared additionally with the senator about the lack of resources, the need for equitable and increased funding, hurried legislation that required implementation with little if any professional development, and the effects of negotiations. 

The senator asked what additional resources were needed, and some superintendents delivered on both parts of her request which will be very helpful in our future advocacy efforts with her.

Attention Leaders of MASA Regions 1, 4, 5. 7, & 9!

Please join your colleagues in Regions 2, 3, 6, and 8 who have selected their “Day at the Capitol.” Here are the dates they chose. Valerie and I are happy to meet with you in the morning prior to your appointments with your representatives.

Please send your preferred date to Taylor Ethen and Deb Henton. Thank you for your advocacy!

Padlet for Retiring MASA/MASE Staff Member Deb Larson

Soon Deb Larson will be retiring. We are grateful for her service to MASA and our members. Please consider adding a message to Deb wishing her well during this next phase of her life!

Leadership Matters!

Check the direct tweet it out here!