Another great year in my life! Elected to the position of President of O.S.T.A. What an honor!  So many people who are probably more deserving and I get picked. When I think of O.S.T.A., my thoughts are immediately of Commitment and Dedication.  The core group who established O.S.T.A. and continue to be involved epitomize this traditional "C and D." 

 

Every substitute teacher should realize that it is because of our organization that we enjoy some of the highest salaries within the Nation.  We will continue to urge that the State maintains its high qualifications, work for due process, and other desires of our rank and file.

 

I have become more vocal in greeting substitutes, both new and old, in the schools where I work and point out what O.S.T.A. has done for you and will continue to do for you.  I point out that we need your membership and it is time to pay back that small amount for membership so that we can continue to go forth with our programs and goals.  If we can be successful in getting ten percent of licensed substitutes to join it would quadruple our membership! Wouldn't that be grand? 

 

I urge all substitutes to follow the moves of legislatures, both State and National, and make it clear to them that they need to prioritize and fund education as they should in order to maintain our position as the greatest Nation in the world.

 

Keep up the good works, spread the good thoughts and reap the good feelings that come from our profession!

 

Sincerely,

 

Walt Ricks

President

Oregon Substitute Teachers Association