2010 Board of Directors Elections
YOUR VOTE, YOUR VOICE
The
2010 ACTE Board of Directors Election will be held February 1-26, 2010.
This year, we will continue to have a completely electronic election. Survey and Ballot Systems will
again be the election vendor facilitating the process, and, by the end
of January, all eligible members will receive an e-mail with voting
instructions.
In preparation for the election, please be sure to:
Verify your e-mail address with ACTE.
If ACTE does not have your e-mail address, it is imperative that you
update your member profile immediately. You can do this by and clicking “Update Your Profile” in the top left corner, or by calling 800-826-9972.
Make sure you/your IT department puts Survey and Ballot Systems on your e-mail’s “white list” so your voting information can be received/not marked as spam. The e-mail will be sent to you from actevote@directvote.net.
Remember that, in order to vote, you must be a member of ACTE as of January 15, 2010. Please contact Lauren Lessels at 800-826-9972 or llessels@acteonline.org with any questions or concerns.
The following ACTE Board of Directors positions will be up for election in February 2010:
All ACTE individual professional, retired, educational institution members, and national affiliate organizations whose membership dues were received at ACTE headquarters by January 15, 2010, are eligible to vote. Please review the biographical information and platform statements for nominees and exercise your right to vote for ACTE's future leadership.
The election process will be conducted via electronic ballot only. You will receive an e-signature via e-mail that must be used with your member number to vote electronically. If you do not receive an e-signature by midnight on February 3, 2010, please contact ACTE's Leadership Department at 800-826-9972, ext. 315. Electronic ballots must be cast by midnight on February 26, 2010. Ballots will be counted and audited at the offices of SBS, and the results will be posted on ACTE's Web site and announced in the April issue of Techniques.
2011 Election Changes
Please also note that a bylaw amendment changing the procedures for the Board of Directors election for 2011 was passed by the Assembly of Delegates at the 2009 ACTE Annual Convention. The new bylaws language reads:
The Board of Directors shall establish a detailed policy regarding campaigns for office and shall publish such policy to all candidates along with the announcement of the slate. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in disqualification. The Executive Committee of the ACTE Board of Directors shall be charged with the responsibility of deciding whether to disqualify a candidate when a violation is reported. Voting shall commence no later than the third day of the Association’s Annual Convention and shall remain open for 30 days. Each eligible member of the ACTE, as of 30 days prior to the commencement of the voting period, shall receive access to the ballot for voting. The Executive Committee shall certify the names of the persons duly elected. In case of a tie vote of two or more nominees, the ACTE Executive Committee shall cast the deciding votes for the office. A plurality of votes shall constitute an election.
Candidate 1Jim Comer—Candidate Questions, Letters of Support
Occupation: Business and Industry Coordinator, Francis Tuttle Technology Center
Employment History: Francis Tuttle Technology Center, BIS Coordinator; Oklahoma Department of CTE, Field Services Coordinator; Autry Technology Center, Small Business Management Instructor/Self Employment Training Coordinator; Manufacturing Company, Owner; Executive Vice President, Banking.
Education: B.B.A., University of Central Oklahoma, Management and Economics, Certification in Economic Development Finance (EDFP).
ACTE Involvement: Division: Policy Committee (2004-2005); Vice President of AWD Division (2006-2009); Nominating Committee Chair (2008-2009); CTE Support Fund Committee Representative (2006-2007); New Ideas Committee Chair (2005-2007); Public Information Committee (2003-2005); PAC Board/Legislative Committee (2002-present). Region: Coordinated Division and Region IV meeting (2004); Speaker, Region IV meeting (2002); Planning Committee Region IV (2002-2003).
Other National, State and Local Involvement: Developed plan for moving CBITS members from NRS to AWD (over 220 members) (2005-2007); Executive Committee of ACTE (2008-2009); Vice President of NRS; President of CBITS; President of Oklahoma ACTE (2004-2005); 5 year delegate /Assembly of Delegates (2001-2005); Officer Candidate Recruitment and Conference Planning (2004-present).
Platform Statement: CAREER TECH EDUCATION DOES MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF OUR STUDENTS. I also know ACTE makes a difference in the lives of our members!
Whether you are reading this platform statement in our Techniques magazine or online over the Internet, you are participating in one of the many values of our Association: communication between our members, our staff at our ACTE offices, and our advocates both inside and outside the classroom. CTE has many advocates at all levels of our great nation and throughout the world. The job of ACTE is to bring these advocates and supporters together for a common bond and a common purpose. ACTE’s purpose is “to provide leadership in developing an educated, prepared, adaptable and competitive workforce.”
If the words “career and technical education” were substituted for “civilization” in the above quote, the resulting statement would marvelously describe the current situation facing CTE. My goal as president of ACTE is to build relationships—both internally and externally. My first goal is to work internally to strengthen the Divisions, Regions and states. My experience as a Board member and CTE professional with more than 30 years of experience in the field indicates that we need to talk more among ourselves and learn from each other. I will actively seek out the leaders of the Divisions, Regions and states to determine what we can do collectively to strengthen our organization. ACTE is like a big family; we need to become a more cohesive family and pay attention to each family member. Joseph F. Newton believes that people tend to “build walls instead of bridges.” My goal is to dismantle the walls between the Divisions and Regions and start building bridges with the states. If ACTE is to survive (and thrive), we must start by working on internal relationships. The advancement of career and technical education will require the cooperation of those outside the profession—legislators, business and industry leaders, and other educators. ACTE is fortunate to have a dedicated, competent staff that works diligently on establishing and maintaining external relationships. We need to continue to strengthen these external relationship efforts. I will contribute to these efforts. By harnessing “…the ability of all people, of all kinds…” we can move career and technical education forward.
Our 28,000 members live this purpose every day, and it shows in the quality of the education and training we provide. I believe our students are the best prepared and most successful students in the world! I am very optimistic about the future of career tech education and the future of ACTE. Much emphasis is being placed on education at the federal level, and I am confident we will be given more attention and more resources to deliver students even better prepared for the workforce and life. No educational system gives a higher return on the money invested than CTE.
I mentioned we have the have the best prepared and most successful students. We also have the best prepared and most successful teachers, counselors, administrators and educators in the world! As president, I will work to expand the awareness of the support and other benefits available to all members of ACTE, and develop better systems of communication and information sharing at the state, regional and national level. I will also develop an enhanced support system for new members of ACTE. We will make discovery of our resources easier to new teachers and members. I want to use the energy and ideas of our new members without losing the wisdom and knowledge of our long-time members.
I believe through the leadership of your Division vice president, Regional vice president and your president, we will pave the way for a strong future for CTE. I ask for your vote for president-elect.
Candidate 2Karen Mason—Candidate Questions, Letters of Support
Occupation: Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher, East Newton High School
Employment History: East Newton R-6 Schools, Family & Consumer Sciences Teacher (1988-present); McDonald County R-1 Schools, Family & Consumer Sciences Teacher (1981-1988).
Education: Master's in Secondary Education, Southwest Baptist University; Vocational Bachelor of Science in Home Economics Education, Pittsburg State University; Associate of Arts, Crowder College.
ACTE Involvement: Division: FACS Division Vice President (2004-2007); FACS Coalition FCCLA Representative (2007-present); FCCLA National Board of Directors (2004-2007); Membership in AAFCS, FCSEA, NATFACS and MoEFACS; Various committees for FACS Division and NATFACS (1998-2004); ACTE BOD Liaison Audit Committee (2009); ACTE BOD Liaison Bylaws Committee (2008); ACTE Liaison Awards Committee (2004-2007); ACTE Resolutions Committee (2002-2004); ACTE Public Information Committee (2000-2002). Region: Region III Vice President (2007-2010); ACTE Executive Committee Region Representative (2008-2009); Region III Conferences (2004-2009); Region III Award of Merit (2007).
Other National, State and Local Involvement: ACTE Finance Chair (2009-2010); MoACTE Policy Chair (2000-present); MoEFACS Division President (1998-1999); MoEFACS Committees (1990-present); ACTE NPS participant (2000-2009); MoACTE Legislative Day (1997-2009); MSTA & ENCTA member (1981-present); Career Ladder Chair of District (1999-present).
Platform Statement: I believe in career and technical education and feel it is very important to all students. Career and technical education has come a long way but still has a long way to go. All students can benefit from taking career and technical education courses. Highly qualified teachers are vital to programs; we need teachers who know their content and are able to relate their knowledge to their students. The practical skills and hands-on training students receive in CTE courses are valuable resources for their future. There has never been a more urgent need for CTE than right now in our country with the current economic situation. CTE has always been adaptable to change; teachers and schools must be willing to change. As educators working together, we can make a difference in our students’ lives and the world in which we all live. We as educators need to share the best kept secret of providing reasons for at-risk students to stay in school. Our career technical student organizations impact students in positive ways and create an awareness of our programs to our communities and schools. Student involvement is vital to preparing tomorrow’s leaders for today. As a classroom teacher, I truly believe career and technical education is important in high school and at the postsecondary levels.
President-Elect Candidates Video Questions
In what ways can the career and technical education profession and ACTE respond to the economic challenges currently facing the country?
ACTE has strategically increased its voice and leadership position within the education and workforce-development policy communities. What strategies would you recommend to continue and build on this success?
What do you perceive is the role of an association leader, and how will this perception guide your activity as president-elect and, ultimately, president?
Candidate 1David Bunting—Candidate Questions, Letters of Support
Occupation: Executive Director of Secondary Programs, Kirkwood Community College.
Employment History: Kirkwood Community College, Executive Director of Secondary Programs (1992-present); Kirkwood Community College, Dean, Iowa City Campus (1989-1992); Kirkwood Community College, Director, Non Traditional Students (1977-1989); Kirkwood Community College, Business Department Faculty & FIPSE Project Director (1972- 1977).
Education: Ph.D (coursework), University of Iowa, Iowa City; M.A., University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, Iowa; B.A., University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, Iowa.
ACTE Involvement: Region: Region III Representative for Iowa (2007-2010); Region III Professional Development Conference, Host State & Conference Co-Planner (2008-2009); Region III Representative for Iowa (2004-2007); Region III Awards Committee (2004-2009); Region III Awards Committee, Chair (2007, 2008); ACTE State Directors Task Force (2009); ACTE Nominating Committee (2008).
Other National, State and Local Involvement: Iowa ACTE Executive Director (2007-present); Iowa ACTE Past President (2002-2003); Iowa ACTE President (2001-2002); Iowa ACTE 1st Vice President (2000-2001); Iowa ACTE 2nd Vice President (1999-2000).
Platform Statement:
“Vision without action is only a dream”
“Action without vision only passes time”
“But, vision with action can change the world”
—Author Joel Barker
Career and technical education in the 21st century will require vision and action to meet the demands of a global workforce and economy. Students must be better informed and better prepared for their future success. Leaders in CTE must collaborate, advocate, listen and do the work that is essential to this future.
My years in career and technical education includes: teaching, curriculum development, program development, and partnership development. Serving as the Executive Director of Secondary Programs at Kirkwood Community College, I help create partnerships with nearly 40 high schools to deliver Career Edge Academy programs that serve over 3,000 high school students annually. I serve as the part-time Executive Director of Iowa’s ACTE which enables me to advocate for CTE throughout the state. Finally, I have served two terms on the Region III Policy Committee, so I have awareness of key issues and the experience to serve in a leadership role for all Region III states and to represent them on the ACTE Board. My priorities are to strengthen state associations and their relationships with ACTE.
Candidate 2Marcia Ritter—Candidate Questions, Letters of Support
Occupation: Educational Consultant/Guest Teacher/Adjunct Professor, Lee’s Summit R-7 Schools and Ottawa University.
Employment History: Lee’s Summit R-7 Schools, Guest Teacher/Substitute (2005-present); Mo. Dept. of Elem/Sec. Ed/MCCE, Curriculum Designer/Mentor (2005-present); Ottawa University, Adjunct Professor (2005-present); Glencoe/McGraw Hill Book Company, Educational Consultant (2005-present); University of Central Missouri, Adjunct Professor (1998-2005); Lee’s Summit R-7 Schools, Family & Cons. Sciences Educator (1976-2005).
Education: 60+ postgraduate hours from University of Central Missouri, University of Missouri, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas State University, Northwest Missouri State University, Southwest Missouri State University, Webster College; M.S.Ed. in Voc. Home Economics, University of Central Missouri (formerly Central Missouri State University); B.S.Ed. in Voc. Home Economics, University of Central Missouri (formerly Central Missouri State University); A.S. in Child Development, University of Central Missouri (formerly Central Missouri State University).
ACTE Involvement: Division: ACTE Public Information Committee (2008-present); ACTE Legislative Committee (2005-2009); National Coalition for FCS Ed. (2005-present); Keynote Speaker, ACTE-FCS Div. (2004, 2007); Presenter at ACTE Conf., FCS Div. (1995, 1998, 2005-2009); Attended ACTE National Policy Seminar (2000, 2002, 2004-2009). Region: Attended Region III meetings (2007-present); Attended Region III meeting in Kansas City (2004).
Other National, State and Local Involvement: Missouri ACTE Board of Directors; Mo. Educators Family & Cons. Sciences; Missouri ACTE/MoEFACS Conference; President, MO Ed. Family & Cons. Sci.
Platform Statement: Career and technical education provides unique growth opportunities for students, schools and communities. As a career and technical educator, I take pride in our profession and our mission and vision. We are on the cutting edge of technical advances and research-driven teaching strategies. We teach … we make a difference.
I have appreciated the many opportunities afforded to me due to my active involvement in ACTE, Missouri ACTE and the Missouri Educators of Family and Consumer Sciences. The networking, professional growth, legislative advocacy and intellectual stimulation are unsurpassed. I will continue to be the career and technical education advocate as I hope to serve you as ACTE Region III Vice President.
Candidate 1Lorrie Carlile—Candidate Questions, Letters of Support
Occupation: FACS Teacher, Morrison Public Schools.
Employment History: Morrison Public Schools, FACS Teacher (1992-present).
Education: Bachelor of Science, Vocational Home Economics Education, Oklahoma State University.
ACTE Involvement: Division: NATFACS Committee member (2008-2009); Region: Region IV Membership Committee (2009-2010).
Other National, State and Local Involvement: OkACTE Strategic Plan (2007-2009); OATFACS Awards Chair (2008-2009); OATFACS Public Information (2004-2006); OATFACS Financial Growth (1998-1999); OkACTE President (2009-2010); OkACTE President-Elect (2008-2009); OATFACS President (2007-2008); OATFACS Secretary (2006-2007); OATFACS Vice President (2005-2006).
Platform Statement: ACTE is committed to providing leadership opportunities to members to educate and prepare them for the continuous changes required of career tech education in preparing our future in today’s competitive workforce. In order for this purpose to be successful, it is vital for the membership to become and remain involved.
My goal as Region IV Vice President will be to continuously motivate our membership to become more involved in leadership development through Region IV, national conferences and through our awards programs. It will be vitally important for our members to remain involved in order to take action on issues that affect our region as well as all of ACTE. I will dedicate my time to involvement in the Region that will continue to secure the mission and goals of ACTE and will continue to work on the development of unity within the Region and all members involved. I appreciate the opportunity for your consideration for the highest leadership role in Region IV.
Candidate 2Marty Thompson—Candidate Questions, Letters of Support
Occupation: Career and Technology Director and Dean of the Advanced Technology Complex, Denton Independent School District.
Employment History: Denton ISD, CTE Director and Dean of the Advanced Technology Complex (1999-present); Lewisville ISD Marcus High School, Assistant Principal Career Counselor (1992-1999); El Paso ISD Technical Center Andress High School, Placement Coordinator Career Counselor CVAE Coordinator Business Teacher (1988-1992); El Paso Community College, Adjunct Professor (1988-1992); University of Texas-El Paso, Scholarship Director (1982-1988).
Education: M.Ed., Occupational Education, Corpus Christi University; B.S. in Business Education/minor in Home Economics, Northeastern State University.
ACTE Involvement: Division: NCLA board member; NCLA Best Practice presenter; ACTE national conference presenter; ACTE Texas voting delegate; ACTE National Policy Seminar attendee; Region IV Awards Committee; Region: Region IV Conference presenter; Region IV Outstanding Educator Award.
Other National, State and Local Involvement: President for Career & Technology Association of Texas; Chair for Denton County Seamless Education; Chair for Texoma Tech-Prep Consortium; North Texas Workforce Board member; Career & Technical Association of Texas presenter; Public Relations and Legislative Committees.
Platform Statement: “BBS!” That is one of the first self lessons I learned as an administrator. How to Beg, Borrow and Steal to support and share new and creative solutions in CTE. My platform is to help find that BBS approach to promote ACTE and CTE for increased membership. Our elected leaders listen based on number of voters we represent! We need to educate the community, business/industry and teachers that their input is extremely valuable to their legislators. My background represents industry, teachers, counselors and administrators. I look forward to giving back to career and technology education as your vice president for Region IV.
Candidate 1Roger Fulk—Candidate Questions, Letters of Support, Audio Interview (Q1, Q2, read transcript)
Occupation: Professor/Director Office Information Systems Program, Wright State University-Lake Campus; Certified Etiquette Presenter.
Employment History: Wright State University-Lake Campus, Professor/Director of Office Information Systems Program (1981-present); Ohio Hi-Point Career Center, Business Instructor (1978-81).
Education: M.S., Business Education, Bowling Green State University; B.S., Business Education, Ohio University; A.A.B., Shawnee State University.
ACTE Involvement: National: Committees—Membership; National Quality Teacher; Conference Proposals Selection; Presenter; Business Education Division: Membership Chair; Policies Commission (Vice Chair); NASBE Newsletter Editor; Presenter; Region: Region I Member; Presenter. State: Ohio Board of Directors; Business Division President, President-elect, Secretary, Treasurer.
Other National, State and Local Involvement: Business Professionals of America, National Board of Directors; International Association of Administration Professionals; Ohio Business Teachers Association, President, President-elect, Secretary, Treasurer; NCBEA; Tech Prep Presenter. Awards: NBEA National Business Teacher; Ohio Business Teacher; Ohio ACTE Outstanding Educator; Ohio Magazine Top College Educators in Ohio.
Platform Statement: Our students’ success is our success! We must be committed to providing our students with both the soft skills and the technical skills that will enable them to succeed in today’s workplace—and to meet the new needs and demands that will inevitably define the workplace of the future.
As business educators, we must:
- communicate the vital role business education plays in our students’ success
- reach out to new educators and provide them with outstanding professional development opportunities and to be advocates for career and technical education—develop a new mentoring program for business educators
- continue to work with related organizations to promote business education
- involve members in the organization and provide opportunities for leadership and professional development programs that continue to incorporate our national business education standards
- develop strong linkages with businesses
We provide students with skills for a lifetime. The Business Education Division has a proud history of providing members with outstanding services.
In our profession, there is no greater reward than witnessing the success of our students. The bright smile on the face of a student who has excelled is priceless! Thank you, business educators, for all of the smiles!
Candidate 2Sarah Heath—Candidate Questions, Letters of Support, Audio Interview (Q1, Q2, read transcript)
Occupation: State Supervisor, Business Education and Computer Science, Georgia Department of Education.
Employment History: Georgia Department of Education, State Supervisor, Business Education and Computer Science (2007-present); Gwinnett County Public Schools, Business Education Teacher (2005-2007); Clarke County Schools, Business Education Teacher (2003-2005).
Education: Ph.D. Workforce Education (in progress), University of Georgia; M.Ed. Business Education, University of Georgia; B.B.A. Management information Systems, University of Georgia.
ACTE Involvement: Division: New Ideas Committee (2008-2009); Business Education Division Policy Committee (2008-2009) Region: Region II.
Other National, State and Local Involvement: Convention Planning (2007-2009); Convention Presenter (2005-2008).
Platform Statement: If elected as Business Education Vice President, I will focus efforts on each critical group within our Division: the classroom teacher, the teacher preparation educators and the supervisors of business education.
If elected, I would ensure that all classroom teachers of business education had a forum to share ideas and resources in order to enhance student learning and achievement. I would also establish groups for teachers to communicate and network throughout the year particularly new teachers, teachers looking for “renewal” and retiring teachers. It would be my goal to continue to create programming at our conference that supports the growth and reflects the needs of the current business education classroom teachers (middle school, high school and postsecondary).
While classroom teachers are the direct link to students, teacher education institutions and supervisors of business education are vital to the process of supporting student achievement. Without strong business education teacher preparation institutions, classroom instruction will cease to grow and our program will cease to grow. If elected, I will support the public relations efforts and promotion of teacher preparation institutions and business education as a career field. Without strong business education supervisors, teachers would not have the tools or support needed to be successful. Business education supervisors are the critical connection between the classroom teachers, teacher preparation institutions and local governments supplying funding for programs. If elected, I will continue to support means for business education supervisors to network and share ideas that will assist with program development in all states.
Candidate 1Luke Steinke—Candidate Questions, Letters of Support
Occupation: Assistant Professor, Eastern Illinois University.
Employment History: Eastern Illinois University, Assistant Professor, School of Technology (2007-present); Southeast Missouri State University, Instructor, Department of Industrial & Engineering Technology (2002-2007); Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, Graduate Assistant, Department of Workforce Education and Development (2001); Northern Michigan University, Graduate Assistant, Engineering and Technology Department (1999-2000).
Education: Ph.D. in Education, Workforce Education and Development, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale; M.S. in Training and Development, Northern Michigan University; B.S. in Industrial Technology, Northern Michigan University; associate degree in Graphic Communications, Moraine Park Technical College.
ACTE Involvement: Division: Policy Committee Chair, eTED (2008-present); Postsecondary Representative, eTED (2004-2006); Policy Committee member, eTED (2004-present); eTED Research Symposium Reviewer (2008-2009); 2nd Place, eTED Research Symposium (2007); Communications Committee (2004-2008).
Other National, State and Local Involvement: eTED outreach presentation and activities conducted at Westlake High School for the 2006 ACTE Convention in Atlanta, Georgia (2006).
Platform Statement: As technology continues to advance at a rapid rate, so does the need for an increasingly technologically literate society. Therefore, I believe that engineering and technology education has never been more important and leadership within the field is needed to be a voice for technology teachers at all levels. The eTED division of ACTE must be both a support structure and an advocate for these teachers.
My goal if elected vice president is to continue actively promoting engineering and technology education at all levels of education, recruiting new and existing teachers to participate in leadership roles within the field, and effectively representing all engineering and technology education teachers within ACTE and at the national level. Additionally, I will work towards improving the quality of what the Division offers by working closely with ACTE eTED members to best meet their needs.
Candidate 2Gayla Stoner—Candidate Questions, Letters of Support
Occupation: Doctoral Student, Southern Illinois University
Employment History: Southern Illinois University, Administrative Assistant to the Provost and Vice Chancellor (2008-present); Southern Illinois University, Office Manager (1998-2008); NuYou Inc., Regional Trainer/Business Owner (1990-1998).
Education: Doctoral Student, Workforce Education and Development (expected 2011), Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC); M.S. in Workforce Education and Development, SIUC; B.S., SIUC.
ACTE Involvement: Division: Elected Secretary; Policy Committee Member; New Ideas Chair (2009); New Ideas Committee, (2008-2010); ITEA/Liaison Committee (2010).
Other National, State and Local Involvement: N/A.
Platform Statement: The intent of this platform statement is to convey my interest in serving as vice president for the Engineering and Technology Education Division. Currently, I am a doctoral student in workforce education and am employed with the Office of the Provost at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
Our nation is at a pivotal point due to the current economic times. Political leaders are pushing for workforce restructuring as a result. Concurrently, we are experiencing global competition in the labor market with jobs going to the lowest-paying wage countries. This is an exciting time to be involved in CTE and as members of ACTE! Continued research that leads to the training and preparation of our workforce will allow our nation to provide quality output to meet the global demand. ACTE is the strongest voice for career and technical educators and this will provide a substantive and promising future for our profession.
As a former trainer, I understand the importance of member retention and the need to recruit new members. ACTE’s modification of waiving student fees is a perfect example of the leadership and mentoring direction that our organization needs to provide for newcomers to the field. As educators in CTE, we need to be open to teach students the importance of exploring all paths that lead to various career options. Our charge must be to act as one voice in the development of our workforce while encouraging collaboration between our legislators, corporations and educational institutions.
Candidate 1Ronna Ford—Candidate Questions, Letters of Support
Occupation: FCS Teacher, Lebanon Technology & Career Center
Employment History: Lebanon Technology & Career Center, FCS/Culinary Arts Teacher (1983-present).
Education: M.S. Secondary Education, Missouri State; B.S. FCS Education, Missouri State University.
ACTE Involvement: Division: NATFCS Legislative Chair (2007-2009); Presented workshop at ACTE Convention (2008); MoEFACS President (2003-2004); MoEFACS Secretary (1998-2001); Various MoEFACS Committees (1994-present); ACTE Legislative Committee (2008-present); ACTE Bylaws Committee Chair (2006-2007); ACTE Bylaws Committee for FCS Division (2003-2006); MOACTE Public Information Committee (2002-present). Region: Region III Conference (2005-2006, 2008); Region III Award of Merit (2007).
Other National, State and Local Involvement: Missouri ACTE President Elect (2005-2006); Missouri ACTE President (2006-2007); Missouri ACTE Past President (2007-2008); Missouri ACTE Board of Directors (1998-2008); Missouri ACTE Outstanding Service Award (2005).
Platform Statement: I believe that the most critical issue facing America’s schools is the fact that nearly one-third of American public high school students fail to graduate every year. This shocking statistic is a result of many complicated factors: spotty early childhood education that leaves a huge number of children unprepared for kindergarten; elementary and junior high schools that advance functionally illiterate students up to the next level; an outmoded “chalkboard mentality” in our high schools that leaves students feeling disengaged and bored with our often archaic ways of doing business.
That said; if elected vice president of the FACS division, I would seek to expand ACTE’s support for service-based co-curricular activities such as FCCLA and Skills USA, which have been proven to lower dropout rates and keep students involved. Along the same vein, research has shown that career counseling is a key; I would push ACTE to deepen its commitment to this field. Thirdly, I would advocate for enriching alternative schools with structured CT programs and providing professional development for alternative school administrators. Lastly, I would encourage ACTE to expand the “Best Practices” offerings on its website, particularly the innovative online CT offerings available around the country.
Candidate 2Leslie Watkins—Candidate Questions, Letters of Support
Occupation: Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher, Reidland High School.
Employment History: McCracken County Board of Education, FACS Teacher (1997-present); Paducah Independent Schools, FACS Teacher (1983-1997); Lyon County Schools, FACS Teacher (1981-1983).
Education: M.S. Home Economics Education, Murray State University; B.S. Home Economics Education, Murray State University; Rank 1, National Board Certification, Career and Technical Education, Family/Consumer Sciences.
ACTE Involvement: Division: NATFACS President-elect (2004-2005); NATFACS President (2005-2006); NATFACS Awards Chair/Web Design (2006-2007); NATFACS History Chair (2007-2008); NATFACS Financial Growth Chair (2003-2004); KATFACS President-elect (2000-2001); KATFACS President (2001-2002); KATFACS Awards Chair (2002-2003); KATFACS History/Scholarship Chair (2003-2004); KATFACS Region 1 President (1983, 1988, 1994, 1999); KATFACS Region 1 Treasurer (2004, 2005, 2008, 2009); KATFACS State Conference Chair (2002); ACTE Nominating Committee (2008-2010); Family and Consumer Sciences Board (2004-2006); KACTE Conference Committee (2001-2002); ACTE FCS Showcase Presenter; NATFACS Pride Award (2008); NATFACS Distinguished Service Award (2009). Region: Region II Division Conferences (2006-2008); Region II Teacher of the Year (2007); KACTE Nominee for Teacher of the Year (2006).
Other National, State and Local Involvement: ACTE National Policy Seminar; ACTE 2007 Teacher of the Year; ACTE National meetings.
Platform Statement: As a family and consumer sciences educator for the past 29 years, I have found one constant truth: our program is still vital and needed. Whether preparing career pathways in culinary arts, child development, consumerism or life preparation, the evidence of our importance is written in today’s headlines from the Wall Street Journal or the New York Times: ”The Demand for Childcare,” “Obesity and Children,” “Making Wise Consumer Decisions” and “Connecting Education to Real Life,” to name a few.
Our role is vital in addressing our country’s issues of consumerism, parenting, careers, employment, culinary, family, relationships, life skills and nutrition. Our expertise, knowledge and skill is necessary in providing a lead to solving many crises in our society and preparing this generation of students for today and their future. I hope to serve the FACS Division and offer my FACS experience, leadership experience and passion to help increase our membership, participation and voice.
Candidate 1Kirk Edney—Candidate Questions, Letters of Support
Occupation: Continuing Education Associate Professor, Texas A&M University.
Employment History: Instructional Materials Service, TAMU, Curriculum Specialist (1998-present); Texas Education Agency, Program Director (1994-1998); Texas Education Agency, Program Specialist (1989-1994); Azle Independent School District, Lead Agriscience Teacher (1982-1989); Azle Independent School Disctrict, Agriscience Teacher (1978-1982); Arlington Independent School Disctrict, Agriscience Teacher (1975-1978).
Education: Ph.D. in Agricultural Leadership, Education & Communications, Texas A&M University; Master of Science Teaching Agricultural Education, Tarleton State University; B.S. in Agricultural Education, Texas A&M University.
ACTE Involvement: Division: ACTE member since 1975, NRS Division meeting (2007); Association for Instructional Materials (2000-present); Diversity Committee (2007-2008, 2009-2010); Association for Instructional Materials Officer (2004-present); Curriculum Development Roundtable presentation (2000-present). NAAE Division: NAAE member since 1975, NAAE Workshops (2000-present).
Other National, State and Local Involvement: N/A.
Platform Statement: The New and Related Services Division of ACTE is the catalyst and incubator for change in our Association. Interest areas take root here in NRS, and are nurtured as they develop and expand. We must continue as a Division to serve as the mechanism for internal change and growth. Opportunities for collaboration exist between NRS and other Divisions within ACTE. It is not uncommon for our members to maintain memberships within other Divisions as well, enhancing opportunities for collaboration.
The leadership process is best served when at least two viable candidates are available for elected positions within our Division. I chose to run for the position of NRS vice president to provide a second candidate and allow the process to move forward. The vice president of this Division must be an individual who is open to opportunities for emerging interest groups and communities of practice, and can provide the stability and experience necessary for the Division to function efficiently and effectively. Both the quality and quantity of previous experience in NRS activities can be an asset.
Candidate 2Claire Zevnik-Cline—Candidate Questions, Letters of Support
Occupation: Instructional Development Specialist, Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (ODCTE).
Employment History: ODCTE, Curriculum and Instructional Materials Center, Instructional Development Specialist (1991- present); ODCTE, Public Information Office, Darkroom Technician (1979-1991).
Education: M.S., Oklahoma State University; B.S., Oklahoma State University.
ACTE Involvement: Division: AIM Awards Chair (2006-2008); AIM President (2005); AIM Vice President/Awards Chair (2004); AIM 2nd Vice President/Program Chair (2003); ACTE Presenter/Curriculum Roundtable (2004-2006, 2008; Bylaws Committee member (2009-2011); NRS Policy Committee member (2008-present); Communications Committee Member (2004-2008). Region: Strategic Planning Committee Chair (2005-2007, Chair 2005-2006).
Other National, State and Local Involvement: OkACTE Awards committee (2007-2009), NRS President (2008-2010; 2004-2005); NRS Secretary (2002-2004); NRS Reporter (2001-2002); NRS Vice President (2000-2001).
Platform Statement: We are at a critical point in this nation. Our economy is suffering and people don’t know where to turn or what to think. Times look bleak but we, as ACTE, can brighten the outlook! I feel we need two things to reach those who need our services—more members and the message that we can help.
There is strength in numbers. I want to find ways to recruit and involve members in ACTE. We need to create excitement in our profession so people are asking to join! We need more members telling our story, explaining how we can help boost the economy! We can only assist in recovery efforts if we are recognized by those making decisions or needing our services. A focused message lets people know how we can help. More members and strong message equals more recognition!
I have gained much professionally and personally as a member of ACTE and NRS. I would like the opportunity to give back. I am a hard worker with varied leadership experience, and am confident that I can be an asset to the ACTE Board. It takes a team to recruit members, increase involvement and impart the message of CTE. I ask for your support to become part of the team that lets America know how great CTE is! Together we can make a difference!
Candidate 1Mark Fuchs—Candidate Questions, Letters of Support
Occupation: Coordinator, St. Louis Carpenters Joint Apprenticeship Program.
Employment History: St. Louis Carpenters Joint Apprenticeship Program, Coordinator (2000-present); R.G. Brinkmann Const., Project Superintendent (1996-1999); Various Construction Firms, Craft Carpenter (1978-1996).
Education: Master of Public Administration, expected May 2010, St. Louis University; Bachelor of Science, Workforce Education and Development, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale; Associate of Applied Science, Apprenticeship Training, Jefferson College.
ACTE Involvement: Division: T&I Policy & Planning Committee Legislative Representative (2008); National Policy Seminar (2009); ACTE National Conference (2008); Region I Conference (2009); Chair Elect ACTE Legislative Committee (2009); Mo ACTE MTTA Delegate (2008, 2009); Chair, Mo ACTE Diversity Awareness Committee (2008, 2009); Region: Chair Elect, Missouri Trade & Technical Association (2009-present); Chair, Missouri Trade & Technical Association, Construction Division (2008-2009); Mo ACTE MTTA Program Planner (2007, 2008); Chair, MoACTE Diversity Awareness Committee (2008, 2009); Mo ACTE Annual Conference (2000-2009).
Other National, State and Local Involvement: N/A.
Platform Statement: I consider it an honor and privilege to serve the Trade and Industrial Division professionals who strive to improve career and technical education. After 25 years in the carpentry trade as a craftsman, I learned my true passion is sharing the skills I’d learned with future generations through technical education, and now direct one of the largest apprenticeship programs in the nation. Just as our country is impacted by such critical issues as globalization, economy, NCLB and technical advancement, so is CTE. To that end, we as educators must promote CTE in partnership as a viable solution to address these issues. We must continue our commitment to integrating the core areas of math, science, English and social studies and advancing those areas through technical education. Federal legislation is now focusing on transferable skill levels and accountability measures which further challenge CTE educators. If we are to meet today’s demands of workforce readiness we must prepare for the future by continuing to hone our skills and augment traditional classroom-based instruction. I ask your support in helping to lead our nation into the future by providing all students with the higher order work-readiness competencies demanded in today’s global marketplace.
Candidate 2Jeff Johnson—Candidate Questions, Letters of Support
Occupation: Automotive Instructor, Francis Tuttle Technology Center.
Employment History: Automotive Instructor, Francis Tuttle Technology Center, Rockwell Campus (2004-present); Automotive Technician, Reynolds Ford (2001-2004); Automotive Technician, Diffee Ford L&M (2000-2001); Automotive Technician and Shop Foreman, Fred Jones Ford (1982-2000).
Education: Bachelor's degree in Adult Education, University of Central Oklahoma (in progress); Associate's degree in Automotive Service Technology, Spokane (Washington) Community College.
ACTE Involvement: Division: Active member of the T&I Division of the Association for Career and Technical Education (2004-present); T&I Representative Oklahoma ACTE CareerTech Administrative Council (2007); Oklahoma T&I Division V.P. (2008); Oklahoma T&I Division President Elect (2009); attended the National ACTE Conference 2008 and the National Policy Seminar (2009); Oklahoma T&I Division Bylaws and other miscellaneous duties assigned by the president.
Other National, State and Local Involvement: Vice Chairman Oklahoma ACTE Career Tech Administrative Council (2007) and Chairman (2008); N.W. District SkillsUSA Student Advisor (2007-present).
Platform Statement: Proudly wearing the official red VICA blazer, I swore the pledge as an officer of VICA at a community college in Spokane Washington in 1980. Today, that pledge is even more relevant to my professional beliefs and goals as I continue supporting the ideals of SkillsUSA. T&I and SkillsUSA have provided me with the skills and confidence to rise above the acceptable norm. These ideals took me to the top of my profession to become a FORD Senior Master Technician, to become part of a management team, and to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree. The opportunity to hone my leadership skills by serving on the Mustang (Oklahoma) school board, the Oklahoma State School Board Association, the Oklahoma T&I Division and Oklahoma ACTE were a direct result of the ideals I learned from SkillsUSA.
I believe strongly in promoting T&I and in developing the skilled work force and future leaders of tomorrow. By seeking the ACTE Trade and Industrial Vice President-elect position I will strive to better connect industry and education through enhanced academics within the T&I Division, accomplishing it through improved delivery methods to all instructors by electronic and traditional means.