SLATE Steering Committee Meeting. November 19, 2004. Indianapolis, Indiana

Meeting called to order at 1:04 PM by Vice Chair, Ruth McClain

Attending: Fred Barton, Barbara Bell, Pat Cordeiro, Millie Davis, Susan Dillon, Reade Dornan, Doug Hesse, Maryann Manning, Ruth McClain, Rick Meyer, Aurelia De Silva, Lyndsey Tate, Kathryn Whitmore

Millie Davis, NCTE Staff Liason
Millie announced the retirement of Charles Suhor and said she will take over his duties. We discussed upcoming challenges:

1) Book challenges by AP, dual enrolled and International Baccalaureate program students. Students, particularly dual enrolled students, may begin to challenge course material. While this may be the most immediate problem, AP, and International Baccalaureate programs are also subject to challenges. Currently most schools lack a challenge policy in these areas. Mentioned that one possibility might be that students coming on a college campus would agree to abide by college rules on text selection, but a different policy could be developed for on line and on site classes.

2) College level challenges (from students). Mentioned that a student in suing his department (Sociology) because of lack of credence given to his conservative viewpoints.

3) Reported that in Medina, CA, in June a superintendent confiscated all texts that did not conform to NCLB guidelines. Case is still ongoing.

Millie mentioned that “hundreds” of rationales are forthcoming and a new challenged book rationale CD will be available by the next convention. Also discussed the censorship “kit” which will be available in 2006. Kit will contain materials for developing policies, dealing with challenges, and making rationales. It will be part of a series of “briefing books.” Doug mentioned that books are currently available for adolescent literacy, teacher quality (online versions only), and assessment.

Millie suggested putting the current issue of the SLATE Newsletter online for all NCTE members. Rick moved, Pat seconded. Motion carried.

Starter Sheets
Maryann discussed her ongoing difficulties in getting new authors. Reported on her efforts to get updates and revisions to current Starter Sheets. Previous editor, Reade mentioned that she had been unable to get any new authors during her tenure as editor as well. Discussion of possible changes to Starter Sheet format and name. FYI Sheets suggested. Decided to determine from Mille if the committee has the authority to loosen the format and make a name change. If that is possible, Kathryn and Barb will co-edit the revised sheets.

Motion to revise and rename Starter Sheets made by Pat, seconded by Barb. Passed.

Reade Dornan, Former Region 4 (MI) SLATE Representative
Reade brought a series of resolutions from MLA on government use of language in wartime; the USA Patriot Act; and Title VI funding (higher ed funding) specifically HR 3077. Asked if SLATE would be interested in putting forth resolutions on appropriate issues to NCTE. After discussion Rick moved that SLATE develop a resolution for next year’s convention. Kathryn seconded. Passed. Rick will head resolution committee.

Regional Reports
Region I: Pat is staying on as Coordinator

Region II: Ruth discussed issues dealing with professional development in her region.

Region III: No report.

Region IV: Fred described the passage of Proposal 1 in Michigan, which deals with non-casino gambling and has ramifications for the state Lotto from which educational funds are drawn. He also mentioned that the state will likely drop the state developed test for high school, the MEAP, in favor of the ACT. 

Region V: No report

Region VI: Aurelia discussed the benefits of the book “Good to Great” by Jim Collins. Although written primarily for business it has many applications to educational problems. Also discussed the rising stress levels among teachers and students as a result of NCLB testing mandates and AYP deadlines.

Rick reported on bilingual issues in his region and distributed some materials developed for parents of bilingual students. Discussed the possibility of SLATE supporting the distribution of materials to parents.

Region VII:  No Report

Other Business
Ruth moved to elect Rick Meyer Vice Chair. Aurelia seconded. Passed

It was decided to repeat the current SLATE workshop (H.03, pg 135 in the convention guide) at the next convention (2005).

Pat moved for adjournment, Barb seconded. Passed. Meeting adjourned at 3:11 PM

Respectfully submitted,

Fred Barton
Editor, SLATE Newsletter, and Region 4 Representative to the NCTE/SLATE Steering Committee