Hello Everyone,
Please enjoy the information contained in this edition of Frontier Focus. Please be sure to share it with your members, colleagues, providers and office billing staff. Thank you for your continued efforts to broadcast Medicare information to the providers in Region VIII.
Table of Contents
1. Medicare Consumer Alert: New Rules for Beneficiaries Who Use Oxygen Equipment and Supplies
2. CMS Launches Fourth Annual Medicare Health Care Provider Satisfaction Survey
3. CMS Issues Historic Star Quality Rating System for Nursing Homes
4. Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) Updates
5. Update to Internet-Based Medicare Enrollment for Physicians & Non-Physician Practitioners
6. ICD-10 Updates
7. Pricing File Updates
8. New From the Medicare Learning Network
9. December Flu Shot Reminder
10. Extra Help for Beneficiaries Paying for Prescription Drugs
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Medicare Consumer Alert: New Rules for Beneficiaries Who Use Oxygen Equipment and Supplies
A recent Medicare law changes how Medicare pays for oxygen equipment and supplies, but beneficiaries will still have continued Medicare coverage for oxygen equipment and related supplies. CMS posted a tip sheet on Medicare.gov for beneficiaries about new Medicare rules due to changes from the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 (MIPPA). MIPPA repealed the requirement to transfer ownership of the equipment to the beneficiary after the 36-month rental period. Suppliers now retain ownership of the equipment.
The tip sheet provides information about the changes in the law, what Medicare pays after the 36 months of rental payments, if a beneficiary moves or travels, and if a supplier is not complying with the law.
If a supplier refuses to comply with these rules, please notify us immediately by calling:
1-800-Medicare (1-800-633-4227) or, for users of TTY, 1-877-486-2048
Your call will be referred to the appropriate place to be sure that you continue to receive your oxygen without interruption.
More information is available at: www.medicare.gov/Publications/pubs/pdf/11405.pdf
To read the consumer alert go to CMS Press releases (12/17) at: http://www.cms.hhs.gov/apps/media/press_releases.asp
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2. CMS Launches Fourth Annual Medicare Health Care Provider Satisfaction Survey
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently announced it has launched its fourth annual health care provider satisfaction survey of Medicare fee-for-service contractors who process and pay more than $280 billion in Medicare claims each year.
“I urge all 30,000 Medicare providers selected to participate in the survey to complete and return their surveys upon receipt,” Acting CMS Administrator Kerry Weems said.
The Medicare Contractor Provider Satisfaction Survey (MCPSS) offers health care providers the opportunity to contribute directly to CMS’ understanding of contractor performance, as well as aid future process improvement efforts at the contractor level. CMS is sending the 2009 survey, designed to be completed in about 20 minutes, to approximately 30,000 randomly selected providers, including physicians and other health care practitioners, suppliers and institutional facilities that serve Medicare beneficiaries across the country. Those health care providers selected to participate in the survey will be notified this month. Providers can submit their responses via a secure website, mail, fax or over the telephone. All Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) will be measured against performance targets on the 2009 MCPSS as part of their contract requirements. MACs are Medicare contractors that provide a number of services, including processing Medicare fee-for-service claims and fielding health care provider questions.
The MCPSS is required by the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003. Specifically, the law calls for CMS to develop contract performance requirements, including measuring health care provider satisfaction with Medicare contractors. CMS will analyze the 2009 MCPSS data and release a summary report on the CMS website in July 2009.
Further information about the MCPSS is available at: www.cms.hhs.gov/MCPSS
To read the CMS Press release (12/16), please visit : http://www.cms.hhs.gov/apps/media/press_releases.asp
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3. CMS Issues Historic Star Quality Rating System for Nursing Homes
For the first time in history, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released quality ratings for each of the nation’s 15,800 nursing homes that participate in Medicare or Medicaid. For more information, view the Press Release at
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/apps/media/press_releases.asp.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) Updates
2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative Measure Specifications Are Now Available!
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce the release of the detailed specifications for the 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) measures and the 2009 PQRI measures groups. The following resources have been posted to the PQRI webpage on the CMS website:
2009 PQRI Quality Measure Specifications Manual and Release Notes- Contains the detailed specifications (including codes and reporting instructions) for the 153 2009 PQRI quality measures for claims or registry-based reporting and a summary of the changes from the 2008 PQRI Measure Specifications (in the form of release notes delineated by measure number).
2009 PQRI Implementation Guide - Provides guidance about how to implement 2009 PQRI claims-based reporting of measures to facilitate satisfactory reporting of quality data codes by eligible professionals for the 2009 PQRI.
2009 PQRI Measures Group Specifications Manual and Release Notes- Contains the detailed specifications and instructions for the seven (7) 2009 PQRI measures groups and a summary of the changes from the 2008 PQRI Measures Groups Specifications (in the form of release notes).
Getting Started with 2009 PQRI Reporting of Measures Groups - Provides guidance about implementing the 2009 PQRI measures groups.
To access the 2009 PQRI Quality Measure Specifications Manual and Release Notes, the 2009 PQRI Implementation Guide, the 2009 PQRI Measures Group Specifications Manual and Release Notes, or the Getting Started with 2009 PQRI Reporting of Measures Groups, visit http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI/15_MeasuresCodes.asp#TopOfPage on the CMS website. Once on the Measure/Codes page, scroll down to the “Downloads” section and click on the appropriate link.
Please note that the 2009 PQRI quality measure specifications for any given quality measure may be different from specifications for the same quality measure used in 2008. Therefore, specifications for all 2009 PQRI quality measures, whether or not included in the 2008 PQRI program, must be obtained from the 2009 PQRI Quality Measure Specifications Manual.
In addition, measures groups specifications are different from the specifications for individually reported measures that form the group. Therefore, the specifications and reporting instructions for the 2009 PQRI measures groups must be obtained from the 2009 PQRI Measures Group Specifications Manual.
Reporting for the 2009 PQRI begins January 1, 2009. Please note there is no need to sign up or pre-register in order to participate.
# # # # #
New Section Page on the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative Web Page
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce a new section page on the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative web page. The “Spotlight” section page can be accessed on PQRI web page at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/pqri/ on the CMS website and click on the Spotlight tab. The “Spotlight” page is updated frequently and was created to alert eligible professionals to the newest program information available on the PQRI web page.
Detailed information on the 2009 PQRI may be found in the 2009 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule final rule with comment period (73 FR 69817 through 69847) that was published in the Federal Register on November 19, 2008. The final rule with comment period can be found in the “Related Links Outside of CMS” section of the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative website at: http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/pdf/E8-26213.pdf on the CMS website.
Reporting for the 2009 PQRI begins January 1, 2009. Please note there is no need to sign up or pre-register in order to participate.
# # # # #
CMS Posts PQRI Reporting Information on CMS Website
Beginning December 19, 2008, the names of physicians and other health care professionals who reported quality information under the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) in 2007 will be available at www.medicare.gov\physician, the Physician and Other Healthcare Professional Directory located on www.medicare.gov. This information includes all eligible professionals identified by their National Provider Identifier (NPI) who submitted at least one quality data code on their Medicare claims for services furnished between July 1, 2007 and December 31, 2007.
The PQRI is a voluntary reporting program. A physician or other healthcare professional can choose whether to report quality information to Medicare under the PQRI program. Reporting quality information by professionals is an important means to promote improved quality of care to Medicare beneficiaries. There are, however, numerous reasons why physicians or other healthcare professionals, who are committed to providing high quality care to their patients, may have chosen not to report quality information under the PQRI Program which began in 2007.
For more information on the PQRI and the instructions for reporting and requirements for satisfactory reporting, go to http://www.cms.hhs.gov/pqri.
Detailed information on the 2009 PQRI may be found in the 2009 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule final rule with comment period (73 FR 69817 through 69847) that was published in the Federal Register on November 19, 2008. The final rule with comment period can be found in the “Related Links Outside of CMS” section of the Physician Quality Reporting Initiative website at: http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/pdf/E8-26213.pdf on the CMS website.
Reporting for the 2009 PQRI begins January 1, 2009. Please note there is no need to sign up or pre-register in order to participate.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
5. Update to Internet-Based Medicare Enrollment for Physicians & Non-Physician Practitioners
MEDICARE PHYSICIANS AND NON-PHYSICIAN PRACTITIONERS
INTERNET-BASED MEDICARE ENROLLMENT IS AVAILABLE
in 34 STATES and the DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
IT’S FAST, SECURE, and EASY
December 15, 2008
Now there’s a better way for physicians and non-physician practitioners to enroll or make a change in their Medicare enrollment information. The Internet-based Provider Enrollment, Chain and Ownership System (PECOS) will allow physicians and non-physician practitioners to enroll, make a change in their Medicare enrollment, view their Medicare enrollment information on file with Medicare, or check on the status of a Medicare enrollment application via the Internet.
Previously, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that Internet-based PECOS is available to physicians and non-physician practitioners in District of Columbia and the following States:
Connecticut Kansas Nevada Tennessee
Delaware Kentucky New Jersey West Virginia
Hawaii Maryland New York Wisconsin
Illinois Michigan North Carolina
Indiana Minnesota Ohio
Iowa Missouri Pennsylvania
Idaho Nebraska South Carolina
Today, CMS is announcing the expansion of Internet-based PECOS for physicians and non-physician practitioners in the following States:
Alaska North Dakota Washington
Arizona Oregon Wyoming
Florida South Dakota
Montana Utah
Physicians and non-physician practitioners in the States shown above and the District of Columbia who wish to access Internet-based PECOS may go to https://pecos.cms.hhs.gov.
CMS will expand the availability of Internet-based PECOS for physicians and non-physician practitioners to all States over the next 2 months. In addition, CMS will make Internet-based PECOS available next year to all providers and suppliers (except durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS) suppliers).
Fast
By submitting the initial Medicare enrollment application through Internet-based PECOS, a physician or non-physician practitioner’s enrollment application can be processed as much as 50 percent faster than by paper. This means that it will take less time to enroll.
Physicians and non-physician practitioners are required by regulation to report certain changes in their enrollment information within specified timeframes. Internet-based PECOS will allow them to update, make corrections, and check on the status of their Medicare enrollment applications —again, as much as 50 percent faster than by paper. Changes include a change in practice location, ownership, or final adverse action (e.g., medical license suspension or revocation.) For additional information about the types of changes that must be reported, go to the download section of www.cms.hhs.gov/MedicareProviderSupEnroll.
Secure
Internet-based PECOS meets all required Government security standards in terms of data entry, data transmission, and the electronic storage of Medicare enrollment information. Only authorized individuals can enter enrollment information into PECOS or view PECOS data from the Internet. Authorized individuals include physicians and non-physician practitioners. Their User IDs and passwords protect the access to their enrollment information. After physicians or non-physician practitioners create User IDs and passwords or change their passwords, they should keep this information secure and not share it with anyone. By safeguarding their User IDs and passwords, they are taking an important step in protecting their enrollment information. CMS does not disclose Medicare enrollment information to anyone except when we are authorized or required to do so by law.
Easy
Internet-based PECOS is a scenario-driven application process with front-end editing capabilities and built-in help screens. The scenario-driven application process will ensure that physicians and non-physician practitioners complete and submit only the information necessary to enroll or make a change in their Medicare enrollment record. In contrast to the information collected on the CMS-855I, physicians and non-physician practitioners will no longer see questions that are not applicable to their enrollment scenarios when using Internet-based PECOS.
Additional Information
For information about Internet-based PECOS, including important information that physicians and non-physician practitioners should know before submitting a Medicare enrollment application via Internet-based PECOS, go to www.cms.hhs.gov/MedicareProviderSupEnroll.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
6. ICD-10 Updates
Transcript Now Available – ICD-10-CM/PCS National Provider Conference Call for Physicians
The transcript of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) ICD-10-CM/PCS National Provider Conference Call for Physicians that was held on November 17, 2008 is now available at
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ICD10/Downloads/November17calltranscript.pdf .
# # # # #
ICD-10 2009 Files
CMS has updated the ICD-10 download files by posting the 2009 version of the following documents at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ICD10/02_ICD-10-PCS.asp :
ICD-10 General Equivalence Mappings (these refer to procedure codes)
Reimbursement mappings and guides for the use of the Mappings
2009 version of ICD-10-Procedure Coding System (PCS)
ICD-10 version of the digestive Medicare Severity Diagnosis Related Groups (MS-DRG)
The 2009 ICD-10-CM (Diagnosis codes) General Equivalence Mappings have been posted at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ICD10/03_ICD_10_CM.asp .
The 2009 version of ICD-10-Clinical Modifications (CM), Diagnoses, will be posted by the end of December 2008 on the following sites:
http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/icd9.htm
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ICD10/03_ICD_10_CM.asp
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
7. Pricing File Updates
RY 2009 Inpatient Psychiatric Facility Prospective Payment System (IPFPPS) PC Pricer Release -- 12/10/2008
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has updated the Inpatient Psychiatric Facility (IPF) PPS PC Pricer for. RY2009 claims dates from 7/1/2008 to 9/30/2008. If you use the IPF PC Pricer, please go to the web page at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PCPricer/09_inppsy.asp#TopOfPage and down load the RY 2009.A version of the Pricer posted on 12/10/2008.
# # # # #
Medicare Part B Drugs Average Sales Price Files -- January 2009
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has made available the Medicare Part B Drug and Biological Average Sales Price (ASP) Payment Amounts for January 1, 2009 to March 31, 2009 on the CMS website at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/McrPartBDrugAvgSalesPrice/01a1_2009aspfiles.asp#TopOfPage. The files are located in the "Downloads" section of this web page.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
8. New From the Medicare Learning Network
The revised Medicare Physician Guide: A Resource for Residents, Practicing Physicians, and Other Health Care Professionals (October 2008), which offers general information about the Medicare Program, becoming a Medicare provider or supplier, Medicare reimbursement, Medicare payment policies, evaluation and management services, protecting the Medicare Trust Fund, inquiries, overpayments, and appeals, is now available in CD-Rom format from the CMS Medicare Learning Network. To place your order, visit http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNProducts/01_Overview.asp, scroll down to “Related Links Inside CMS” and select “MLN Product Ordering Page.”
# # # # #
The revised publication titled Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Prospective Payment System Fact Sheet (October 2008), which provides information about Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Prospective Payment System rates and classification criterion, is now available in downloadable format from the CMS Medicare Learning Network at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNProducts/downloads/InpatRehabPaymtfctsht09-508.pdf .
# # # # #
The revised Medicare Physician Guide: A Resource for Residents, Practicing Physicians, and Other Health Care Professionals (October 2008), which offers general information about the Medicare Program, becoming a Medicare provider or supplier, Medicare reimbursement, Medicare payment policies, evaluation and management services, protecting the Medicare Trust Fund, inquiries, overpayments, and appeals, is now available in print format from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Medicare Learning Network. To place your order, visit http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNProducts/01_Overview.asp, scroll down to “Related Links Inside CMS” and select “MLN Product Ordering Page.”
# # # # #
The October 2008 version of the Adult Immunizations tri-fold brochure, which provides fee-for-service health care professionals with an overview of Medicare's coverage of influenza, pneumococcal, and hepatitis B vaccines and their administration, is now available to order from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Medicare Learning Network (MLN). To place your order, visit http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNProducts/01_Overview.asp, scroll down to “Related Links Inside CMS” and select “MLN Product Ordering Page.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
9. December Flu Shot Reminder
It's seasonal flu time again! If you have Medicare patients who haven’t yet received their flu shot, you can help them reduce their risk of contracting the seasonal flu and potential complications by recommending an annual influenza and a one-time pneumococcal vaccination. Medicare provides coverage of flu and pneumococcal vaccines and their administration. – And don’t forget to immunize yourself and your staff. Protect yourself, your patients, and your family and friends. Get Your Flu Shot – Not the Flu.
Remember - Influenza vaccine plus its administration are covered Part B benefits. Note that influenza vaccine is NOT a Part D covered drug.
Health care professionals and their staff can learn more about Medicare’s coverage of the influenza vaccine and other Medicare Part B covered vaccines and related provider education resources created by CMS, by reviewing Special Edition MLN Matters article SE0838 http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/SE0838.pdf on the CMS website.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
10. Extra Help for Beneficiaries Paying for Prescription Drugs
Do You Know Someone Who Is Having Trouble Paying For Prescription Drugs?
Medicare Can Help!
If an individual has limited income and resources, they may qualify for extra help from Medicare. It could be worth over $3,300 in savings on prescription drug costs per year.
Encourage people with Medicare to file for Extra Help online: https://s044a90.ssa.gov/apps6z/i1020/main.html or by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to apply over the phone.
State Health Insurance Information Program (SHIP) offices can assist with the application. Find contact information for a local SHIP Counselor at http://www.medicare.gov/contacts/static/allStateContacts.asp or by calling
1-800-MEDICARE.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Lucretia James
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Region VIII
1600 Broadway, Suite 700
Denver, CO 80202
(303) 844-1568
lucretia.james@cms.hhs.gov
Professor Emeritus -- Dr. Tom Seymour from West Fargo, North Dakota -- Professor, Minot State University, MSU Faculty Regents Award (2015) -- PAST Peer Reviewer (Higher Learning Commission - Chicago); - Author and Presenter Board of Directors, SRT Communications, Inc and Minot City Alderman - Ward 5 (2010-June, 2016) PAST - Editor-in-Chief (North Dakota State Senator (2002-2010) 2017-Cass County Electric Cooperative- Board of Directors
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Senator Tom Seymour in Bismarck Tribune Internet Article
Lawmakers adapt to Internet
LOADING
Dec 20, 2008 - 04:06:10 CST
By BRIAN DUGGAN
Bismarck Tribune
Internet modernity is brewing - albeit slowly - inside the North Dakota state Capitol, and it's something that might change the way lawmakers communicate with folks around the state.
This upcoming session marks the first time that every legislator will have a laptop - some of the holdouts who avoided the computers in past sessions did not return for another - and talks of a possible test program to issue lawmakers BlackBerry smart phones has ("at best") a 50-50 chance of seeing the light of day, according to House Leader Al Carlson of Fargo.
But one of the most tech-savvy improvements coming to the North Dakota Legislature is from Sen. Tom Seymour, a Minot Democrat, who said he will use the Web site Twitter to tell people what's going on in the state Capitol throughout the session.
Haven't heard of Twitter yet? It's a Web site that lets users electronically publish their every move in the form of 140-character posts, akin to a Facebook update. At the same time, anyone with a Twitter account can message Seymour through the social network.
Seymour said he and John Girard of Minot State University got the idea to twitter after they encouraged all the freshmen at the university to join the social networking site Facebook in order to communicate with each other.
"Then it came to the political arena and how can you get your constituents involved?" said Seymour, who teaches at Minot State.
Twittering isn't new to politics. President-elect Barack Obama's campaign team twittered throughout the 2008 election. U.S. Rep. John Culberson, R-Texas, for example, sends Twitter messages from his BlackBerry - even from the House floor, to the chagrin of House Leader Nancy Pelosi.
Seymour said he wants to see lawmakers adapt more Web tools, such as instant messaging and Facebook, to communicate with each other and constituents.
Many state officials already have accounts on Facebook and MySpace. During committee meetings, for example, it isn't difficult to spot a few lawmakers checking their Facebook profiles.
Still, the value of shaking hands and hitting the road hasn't changed, despite the Internet, University of North Dakota political science director Mark Jendrysik said.
"I think it's just another tool in the toolbox of politicians," he said of Web sites such as Twitter. "All of these things are just different ways to reach voters."
But after the 2008 presidential election, Jendrysik said politicians should learn to adapt to online communication, especially if they want to reach younger voters, who have largely strayed from newspapers and television news.
"I think successful politicians in the future will have to employ all these means," he said.
The big picture suggests that technology is changing the way government operates. After all, Obama could become the first president in history with a laptop in the Oval Office, according to press reports.
The question is, how will these new interactive online features find their way into North Dakota politics?
Seymour said he wonders if the day will ever come when Legislature meets in a virtual world, rather than meeting in Bismarck. Regardless, he sees the communication landscape as a changing one.
"This thing has been a slow transition from the phone," Seymour said. "People used to call each other during the session; now they hardly call each other, except for some of the older guys and girls."
(Reach reporter Brian Duggan at 223-8482 or brian.duggan@bismarcktribune.com. Read his blog at www.bismarcktribune.com/blog/?wnodakcentral.)
News > Columnists
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Comments Shawn K wrote on Dec 20, 2008 10:44 AM:
" It's great that at least one state senator has decided to join the party and try to communicate with Generation Y. It would be a lot better if we knew what his Twitter name is though. "
Post Your Own Comment
Name:
Email: (optional)
Comments:
Image Verification:
All online comments are limited to 350 words total.
Comments are reviewed for taste, tone and language before posting.
Some comments may be used in the Tribune's print edition.
We value and respect your privacy, but The Bismarck Tribune might
disclose certain information to governmental entities if served with subpoena.
LOADING
Dec 20, 2008 - 04:06:10 CST
By BRIAN DUGGAN
Bismarck Tribune
Internet modernity is brewing - albeit slowly - inside the North Dakota state Capitol, and it's something that might change the way lawmakers communicate with folks around the state.
This upcoming session marks the first time that every legislator will have a laptop - some of the holdouts who avoided the computers in past sessions did not return for another - and talks of a possible test program to issue lawmakers BlackBerry smart phones has ("at best") a 50-50 chance of seeing the light of day, according to House Leader Al Carlson of Fargo.
But one of the most tech-savvy improvements coming to the North Dakota Legislature is from Sen. Tom Seymour, a Minot Democrat, who said he will use the Web site Twitter to tell people what's going on in the state Capitol throughout the session.
Haven't heard of Twitter yet? It's a Web site that lets users electronically publish their every move in the form of 140-character posts, akin to a Facebook update. At the same time, anyone with a Twitter account can message Seymour through the social network.
Seymour said he and John Girard of Minot State University got the idea to twitter after they encouraged all the freshmen at the university to join the social networking site Facebook in order to communicate with each other.
"Then it came to the political arena and how can you get your constituents involved?" said Seymour, who teaches at Minot State.
Twittering isn't new to politics. President-elect Barack Obama's campaign team twittered throughout the 2008 election. U.S. Rep. John Culberson, R-Texas, for example, sends Twitter messages from his BlackBerry - even from the House floor, to the chagrin of House Leader Nancy Pelosi.
Seymour said he wants to see lawmakers adapt more Web tools, such as instant messaging and Facebook, to communicate with each other and constituents.
Many state officials already have accounts on Facebook and MySpace. During committee meetings, for example, it isn't difficult to spot a few lawmakers checking their Facebook profiles.
Still, the value of shaking hands and hitting the road hasn't changed, despite the Internet, University of North Dakota political science director Mark Jendrysik said.
"I think it's just another tool in the toolbox of politicians," he said of Web sites such as Twitter. "All of these things are just different ways to reach voters."
But after the 2008 presidential election, Jendrysik said politicians should learn to adapt to online communication, especially if they want to reach younger voters, who have largely strayed from newspapers and television news.
"I think successful politicians in the future will have to employ all these means," he said.
The big picture suggests that technology is changing the way government operates. After all, Obama could become the first president in history with a laptop in the Oval Office, according to press reports.
The question is, how will these new interactive online features find their way into North Dakota politics?
Seymour said he wonders if the day will ever come when Legislature meets in a virtual world, rather than meeting in Bismarck. Regardless, he sees the communication landscape as a changing one.
"This thing has been a slow transition from the phone," Seymour said. "People used to call each other during the session; now they hardly call each other, except for some of the older guys and girls."
(Reach reporter Brian Duggan at 223-8482 or brian.duggan@bismarcktribune.com. Read his blog at www.bismarcktribune.com/blog/?wnodakcentral.)
News > Columnists
Printer friendly version
Lawmakers adapt to Internet share it:
Ads by Yahoo!
north Dakota moving quote - move.com
Compare Professional Movers in Your Area. Save Time and Money Today.
www.Move.com
Free North Dakota Dating Personals
No credit card required. Free to signup and email local singles.
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North Dakota Foreclosures - 50% off
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Comments Shawn K wrote on Dec 20, 2008 10:44 AM:
" It's great that at least one state senator has decided to join the party and try to communicate with Generation Y. It would be a lot better if we knew what his Twitter name is though. "
Post Your Own Comment
Name:
Email: (optional)
Comments:
Image Verification:
All online comments are limited to 350 words total.
Comments are reviewed for taste, tone and language before posting.
Some comments may be used in the Tribune's print edition.
We value and respect your privacy, but The Bismarck Tribune might
disclose certain information to governmental entities if served with subpoena.
National Education Review
ED REVIEW
December 19, 2008 (Happy Holidays!)
...a bi-weekly update on U.S. Department of Education activities relevant to the Intergovernmental and Corporate community and other stakeholders
______________________________________________________________________
SECRETARY DESIGNATE
In response to the nomination of Arne Duncan, Chief Executive Officer of the Chicago Public Schools, as U.S. Secretary of Education, Secretary Spellings issued the following statement:
"Arne Duncan is a visionary leader and fellow reformer who cares deeply about students. As the CEO of the Chicago Public Schools, Arne has advanced policies to hold schools accountable for providing all our nation's students -- regardless of race, income level, or background -- with a high-quality education. His credibility and expertise will be invaluable as we continue working to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed and to make higher education accessible and affordable to all. Above all, Arne understands that, in today's global economy, we must stay focused on results for every child…. I look forward to being helpful to Arne and his team during the transition and beyond."
______________________________________________________________________
NCLB UPDATE
Asserting, "As Americans prepare for a change in government, one thing that must not change is the remarkable progress being made by our nation's schools," the Department has released a new fact sheet: "Progress by Our Schools and the Department of Education." The document offers a bulleted list of bipartisan accomplishments (e.g., test scores are higher, the achievement gap is narrowing, children once "left behind" have made great strides forward), discusses some of the significant changes in the culture of education, and looks ahead to the challenges of the 21st century. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO http://www.ed.gov/nclb/accountability/results/trends/progress.html.
Meanwhile, spurning any rumors of an "early departure" from the agency, Secretary Spellings visited with students, teachers, and other stakeholders in New York City, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. On December 9, she delivered remarks at the All-Stars Helping Kids Second Annual Sports, Business, and Philanthropy luncheon at the Sports Museum of America in New York City (http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2008/12/12092008a.html). "We frequently hear that No Child Left Behind is punishing schools or narrowing the curriculum by excluding subjects like art and physical education," she noted. "I disagree. For one thing, the law doesn't punish schools; it supplies extra help, like free tutoring for students who fall behind. For another, there's no good reason why we can't focus on reading and math and still have art, recess, and other subjects. I've seen it for myself. Phil Mickelson uses golf to teach kids geometry and trigonometry…. We know that exercise helps kids focus and grow up healthy and confident." Two days later, on December 11, the Secretary delivered remarks at Chicago's Westcott Elementary School, one of 10 schools participating in the city's performance pay pilot program funded, in part, by the Department (http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2008/12/12112008.html). "Recruiting and retaining good teachers is key to closing the achievement gap and preparing all students to compete in the 21st century," she said. "Yet, one-third of new teachers leave within five years, while, in high-poverty schools, about half leave within five years. Chicago is on the cutting edge of a movement to reward teachers for taking on more challenging assignments and getting results. I'm proud that my Department is supporting these awards and helping to make a difference for Chicago school children." Then, this week (December 17), the Secretary was at Amidon-Bowen Elementary School in Washington, D.C., only a few blocks from agency headquarters, to present the President's Volunteer Service Award to volunteers with the Foster Grandparent program (whereby senior citizens tutor and mentor children) and recognize Department employees and local residents for volunteering with Everybody Wins! (whereby individuals tutor children during recess and lunch).
The latest Achiever newsletter (http://www.ed.gov/achiever/) spotlights a Texas elementary school -- where one in four students are English language learners and one in five transfer each year -- that has built teacher collaboration to help achieve a near-perfect student proficiency rate of 98% in reading and math.
______________________________________________________________________
TIMSS RESULTS
A lengthy new report from the Department's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) summarizes the performance of U.S. fourth- and eighth-grade students on the 2007 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), comparing their scores with their peers internationally, as well as documenting changes in math and science achievement since 1995. The report also describes details about trends in the achievement of U.S. students, by sex, race/ethnicity, and the poverty level of the schools they attend. Consider:
Math
The 2007 average math scores of both U.S. fourth- (529) and eighth- (508) grade students were higher than the scale average (500). At grade 4, the average U.S. score was higher than those in 23 of the 35 participating nations, lower than those in eight nations (all in Asia or Europe), and not measurably different from those in four nations. At grade 8, the average U.S. score was higher than those in 37 of the 47 participating nations, lower than those in five nations (all in Asia), and not measurably different from those in five nations.
Comparing average scores from the first TIMSS administration in 1995 to the most recent results from 2007 shows that both U.S. fourth- (11 points higher than the 1995 average of 518) and eighth- (16 points higher than the 1995 average of 492) grade students improved in math.
While U.S. black and Hispanic students score lower in math than U.S. white students, over the 12-year period, the gap has narrowed in some areas: at grade 4, the white-black gap closed 17 points; at grade 8, the white-black gap closed 21 points, and the white-Hispanic gap closed 15 points.
Science
The 2007 average science scores of both U.S. fourth- (539) and eighth- (520) grade students were higher than the scale average (500). At grade 4, the average U.S. score was higher than those in 25 of the 35 participating nations, lower than those in four nations (all in Asia), and not measurably different from those in six nations. At grade 8, the average U.S. score was higher than those in 35 of the 47 participating nations, lower than those in nine nations (all in Asia or Europe), and not measurably different from those in three nations.
Unlike in math, comparing average scores from the first TIMSS administration in 1995 to the most recent results from 2007 shows that U.S. fourth- (3 points lower than the 1995 average of 542) and eighth- (7 points higher than the 1995 average of 513) grade students were not measurably different
in science.
While U.S. black and Hispanic students score lower in science than U.S. white students, over the 12-year period, the gap has narrowed in some areas: at grade 4, the white-black gap closed 31 points; at grade 8, the white-black gap narrowed 26 points, and the white-Hispanic gap narrowed 27 points.
TIMSS, sponsored by an international organization of national research institutions and government agencies, has been administered four times: 1995, 1999, 2003, and 2007. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO http://nces.ed.gov/timss/. (Note: Massachusetts and Minnesota participated separately. Both topped the U.S. average scores in fourth- and eighth-grade math and science, with Massachusetts performing as well as some of their Asian peers. See http://timss.bc.edu/timss2007/.)
Also: Last week, results were announced for the Siemens Competition in Math, Science, and Technology. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO http://www.siemens-foundation.org/en/competition.htm.
______________________________________________________________________
PRIVACY GUIDANCE
On December 9, the Department published in the Federal Register final regulations clarifying and making changes to the existing Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) regulations. These new regulations are intended to help educational agencies and institutions better understand and administer FERPA and make important updates to improve school safety, access to education data for research and accountability, and the safeguarding of education records, among other areas. (For example, language was removed requiring strict construction of the FERPA provision that permits the disclosure of education records, without consent, in order to deal with health or safety emergencies; now, in making a determination concerning disclosures, a school may take into account the totality of circumstances pertaining to a threat.) The regulations address public comments received on proposed regulations, published in March, from more than 100 individuals and organizations. They represent an appropriate balance between preserving students' privacy, promoting their safety, and facilitating research and accountability that will help ensure that students receive a quality education. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2008/12/12092008b.html.
______________________________________________________________________
MONITORING THE FUTURE
The annual Monitoring the Future survey of U.S. secondary students, conducted since 1975, finds alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drug use by American teenagers continues to fall overall. Indeed, among tenth-graders, lifetime use of any illicit drug other than marijuana declined from 18.2% in 2007 to 15.9% in 2008; past year use declined from 13.1% in 2007 to 11.3% in 2008; and past month use declined from 6.9% in 2007 to 5.3% in 2008. Likewise, the use of stimulants (amphetamine, crack cocaine, and crystal methamphetamine) declined in all prevalence periods for tenth-graders. On the other hand, marijuana use, which had fallen since the mid-1990s, appears to have leveled off, with past year use reported by 10.9% of eighth-graders, 23.9% of tenth-graders, and 32.4% of twelfth-graders. Also, 15.4% of twelfth-graders reported using a prescription drug non-medically within the past year. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO http://www.monitoringthefuture.org/. (The Office of National Drug Control Policy's survey fact sheet is available at http://www.whitehousedrugpolicy.org/news/press08/MTF2008_factsheet.pdf.)
Also: The White House incorporated the survey findings in its summary of efforts to improve the lives of America's youth. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2008/12/20081211-6.html.
______________________________________________________________________
BARNEY CAM VII
Earlier this month, the White House unveiled "A Red, White, and Blue Christmas," the final installment of "Barney Cam," which features the President and First Lady's Scottish terriers touring the White House to give viewers a dog's eye view of the holiday decorations. This year, to celebrate the family's last Christmas in the White House, Barney decides on a patriotic theme. However, the task of decorating proves exhausting, leading to an interesting daydream, with Barney capturing Olympic gold medals in gymnastics and swimming and sinking a difficult putt to secure golf's Ryder Cup. Awakened by the President ("We are sprinting to the finish, not napping to the finish!"), Barney is motivated to complete the decorations by Olympic champions Michael Phelps, Garrett Weber-Gale, Nastia Liukin, and Shawn Johnson and NBC's Jimmy Roberts and the U.S. Ryder Cup team. The video features President Bush, First Lady Laura Bush, Barbara Bush (with Willard the Cat!), and Henry and Jenna Hager. Don't miss the amazing soundtrack by the U.S. Marine Band! FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO http://www.whitehouse.gov/holiday/.
______________________________________________________________________
QUOTE TO NOTE
"Pointing out weaknesses makes some people uncomfortable. And, we're hearing lots of reasons why the law's goals of all students on grade level by 2014 can't be achieved. But you know that winning stems from focusing on what's possible, not what seems impossible. Furthermore, as a parent, I want my daughters on grade level now, not six years from now. Why would we think other parents want anything less?.... To me, it comes down to a matter of how much we believe in our kids. If they're having a tough time at home, or if they start off far behind, do we really think that means they're doomed to fail?.... You know that if we have faith in our kids, and if we support them and their teachers, there's no limit to what we can achieve."
-- Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings (12/9/08), speaking at the All-Stars Helping Kids luncheon
______________________________________________________________________
UPCOMING EVENTS
Coming Up Taller Awards (http://www.pcah.gov/cut.htm), sponsored by the President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities, focus national attention on exemplary programs fostering the creative and intellectual development of America's youth. Fifteen awards of $10,000 are presented each year, providing recognition and contributing to continued work. Applications must be postmarked by January 30, 2009.
Scholarships are now available for American students wishing to travel abroad and study languages that are critical to the nation, including Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Hindi, Korean, Russian, and Turkish. Students have the option of three different program lengths: a summer intensive, a semester, or a full academic year. Interested students must: (1) be U.S. citizens, (2) be 15-18 years of age at the start of the program, and (3) be enrolled in high school with at least a 2.5 grade point average. Students may travel abroad during high school or during a "gap year." Applications must be submitted by February 2, 2009. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO http://www.nsliforyouth.org/.
______________________________________________________________________
Please feel free to contact the Office of Communications and Outreach with any questions:
Director, Intergovernmental Affairs -- Rogers Johnson, (202) 401-0026, mailto:Rogers.Johnson@ed.gov
Deputy Director -- Keith Brancato, (202) 401-6178, mailto:Keith.Brancato@ed.gov
Program Analyst -- Adam Honeysett, (202) 401-3003, mailto:Adam.Honeysett@ed.gov
To be added or removed from distribution, or submit comments (we welcome your feedback!),
contact Adam Honeysett. Or, visit http://www.ed.gov/news/newsletters/edreview/.
This newsletter contains hypertext links to information created and maintained by other public and private organizations. These links are provided for the user's convenience. The U.S. Department of Education does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. Furthermore, the inclusion of links is not intended to reflect their importance, nor is it intended to endorse any views expressed, or products or services offered, on these sites, or the organizations sponsoring the sites.
December 19, 2008 (Happy Holidays!)
...a bi-weekly update on U.S. Department of Education activities relevant to the Intergovernmental and Corporate community and other stakeholders
______________________________________________________________________
SECRETARY DESIGNATE
In response to the nomination of Arne Duncan, Chief Executive Officer of the Chicago Public Schools, as U.S. Secretary of Education, Secretary Spellings issued the following statement:
"Arne Duncan is a visionary leader and fellow reformer who cares deeply about students. As the CEO of the Chicago Public Schools, Arne has advanced policies to hold schools accountable for providing all our nation's students -- regardless of race, income level, or background -- with a high-quality education. His credibility and expertise will be invaluable as we continue working to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed and to make higher education accessible and affordable to all. Above all, Arne understands that, in today's global economy, we must stay focused on results for every child…. I look forward to being helpful to Arne and his team during the transition and beyond."
______________________________________________________________________
NCLB UPDATE
Asserting, "As Americans prepare for a change in government, one thing that must not change is the remarkable progress being made by our nation's schools," the Department has released a new fact sheet: "Progress by Our Schools and the Department of Education." The document offers a bulleted list of bipartisan accomplishments (e.g., test scores are higher, the achievement gap is narrowing, children once "left behind" have made great strides forward), discusses some of the significant changes in the culture of education, and looks ahead to the challenges of the 21st century. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO http://www.ed.gov/nclb/accountability/results/trends/progress.html.
Meanwhile, spurning any rumors of an "early departure" from the agency, Secretary Spellings visited with students, teachers, and other stakeholders in New York City, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. On December 9, she delivered remarks at the All-Stars Helping Kids Second Annual Sports, Business, and Philanthropy luncheon at the Sports Museum of America in New York City (http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2008/12/12092008a.html). "We frequently hear that No Child Left Behind is punishing schools or narrowing the curriculum by excluding subjects like art and physical education," she noted. "I disagree. For one thing, the law doesn't punish schools; it supplies extra help, like free tutoring for students who fall behind. For another, there's no good reason why we can't focus on reading and math and still have art, recess, and other subjects. I've seen it for myself. Phil Mickelson uses golf to teach kids geometry and trigonometry…. We know that exercise helps kids focus and grow up healthy and confident." Two days later, on December 11, the Secretary delivered remarks at Chicago's Westcott Elementary School, one of 10 schools participating in the city's performance pay pilot program funded, in part, by the Department (http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2008/12/12112008.html). "Recruiting and retaining good teachers is key to closing the achievement gap and preparing all students to compete in the 21st century," she said. "Yet, one-third of new teachers leave within five years, while, in high-poverty schools, about half leave within five years. Chicago is on the cutting edge of a movement to reward teachers for taking on more challenging assignments and getting results. I'm proud that my Department is supporting these awards and helping to make a difference for Chicago school children." Then, this week (December 17), the Secretary was at Amidon-Bowen Elementary School in Washington, D.C., only a few blocks from agency headquarters, to present the President's Volunteer Service Award to volunteers with the Foster Grandparent program (whereby senior citizens tutor and mentor children) and recognize Department employees and local residents for volunteering with Everybody Wins! (whereby individuals tutor children during recess and lunch).
The latest Achiever newsletter (http://www.ed.gov/achiever/) spotlights a Texas elementary school -- where one in four students are English language learners and one in five transfer each year -- that has built teacher collaboration to help achieve a near-perfect student proficiency rate of 98% in reading and math.
______________________________________________________________________
TIMSS RESULTS
A lengthy new report from the Department's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) summarizes the performance of U.S. fourth- and eighth-grade students on the 2007 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), comparing their scores with their peers internationally, as well as documenting changes in math and science achievement since 1995. The report also describes details about trends in the achievement of U.S. students, by sex, race/ethnicity, and the poverty level of the schools they attend. Consider:
Math
The 2007 average math scores of both U.S. fourth- (529) and eighth- (508) grade students were higher than the scale average (500). At grade 4, the average U.S. score was higher than those in 23 of the 35 participating nations, lower than those in eight nations (all in Asia or Europe), and not measurably different from those in four nations. At grade 8, the average U.S. score was higher than those in 37 of the 47 participating nations, lower than those in five nations (all in Asia), and not measurably different from those in five nations.
Comparing average scores from the first TIMSS administration in 1995 to the most recent results from 2007 shows that both U.S. fourth- (11 points higher than the 1995 average of 518) and eighth- (16 points higher than the 1995 average of 492) grade students improved in math.
While U.S. black and Hispanic students score lower in math than U.S. white students, over the 12-year period, the gap has narrowed in some areas: at grade 4, the white-black gap closed 17 points; at grade 8, the white-black gap closed 21 points, and the white-Hispanic gap closed 15 points.
Science
The 2007 average science scores of both U.S. fourth- (539) and eighth- (520) grade students were higher than the scale average (500). At grade 4, the average U.S. score was higher than those in 25 of the 35 participating nations, lower than those in four nations (all in Asia), and not measurably different from those in six nations. At grade 8, the average U.S. score was higher than those in 35 of the 47 participating nations, lower than those in nine nations (all in Asia or Europe), and not measurably different from those in three nations.
Unlike in math, comparing average scores from the first TIMSS administration in 1995 to the most recent results from 2007 shows that U.S. fourth- (3 points lower than the 1995 average of 542) and eighth- (7 points higher than the 1995 average of 513) grade students were not measurably different
in science.
While U.S. black and Hispanic students score lower in science than U.S. white students, over the 12-year period, the gap has narrowed in some areas: at grade 4, the white-black gap closed 31 points; at grade 8, the white-black gap narrowed 26 points, and the white-Hispanic gap narrowed 27 points.
TIMSS, sponsored by an international organization of national research institutions and government agencies, has been administered four times: 1995, 1999, 2003, and 2007. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO http://nces.ed.gov/timss/. (Note: Massachusetts and Minnesota participated separately. Both topped the U.S. average scores in fourth- and eighth-grade math and science, with Massachusetts performing as well as some of their Asian peers. See http://timss.bc.edu/timss2007/.)
Also: Last week, results were announced for the Siemens Competition in Math, Science, and Technology. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO http://www.siemens-foundation.org/en/competition.htm.
______________________________________________________________________
PRIVACY GUIDANCE
On December 9, the Department published in the Federal Register final regulations clarifying and making changes to the existing Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) regulations. These new regulations are intended to help educational agencies and institutions better understand and administer FERPA and make important updates to improve school safety, access to education data for research and accountability, and the safeguarding of education records, among other areas. (For example, language was removed requiring strict construction of the FERPA provision that permits the disclosure of education records, without consent, in order to deal with health or safety emergencies; now, in making a determination concerning disclosures, a school may take into account the totality of circumstances pertaining to a threat.) The regulations address public comments received on proposed regulations, published in March, from more than 100 individuals and organizations. They represent an appropriate balance between preserving students' privacy, promoting their safety, and facilitating research and accountability that will help ensure that students receive a quality education. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2008/12/12092008b.html.
______________________________________________________________________
MONITORING THE FUTURE
The annual Monitoring the Future survey of U.S. secondary students, conducted since 1975, finds alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drug use by American teenagers continues to fall overall. Indeed, among tenth-graders, lifetime use of any illicit drug other than marijuana declined from 18.2% in 2007 to 15.9% in 2008; past year use declined from 13.1% in 2007 to 11.3% in 2008; and past month use declined from 6.9% in 2007 to 5.3% in 2008. Likewise, the use of stimulants (amphetamine, crack cocaine, and crystal methamphetamine) declined in all prevalence periods for tenth-graders. On the other hand, marijuana use, which had fallen since the mid-1990s, appears to have leveled off, with past year use reported by 10.9% of eighth-graders, 23.9% of tenth-graders, and 32.4% of twelfth-graders. Also, 15.4% of twelfth-graders reported using a prescription drug non-medically within the past year. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO http://www.monitoringthefuture.org/. (The Office of National Drug Control Policy's survey fact sheet is available at http://www.whitehousedrugpolicy.org/news/press08/MTF2008_factsheet.pdf.)
Also: The White House incorporated the survey findings in its summary of efforts to improve the lives of America's youth. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2008/12/20081211-6.html.
______________________________________________________________________
BARNEY CAM VII
Earlier this month, the White House unveiled "A Red, White, and Blue Christmas," the final installment of "Barney Cam," which features the President and First Lady's Scottish terriers touring the White House to give viewers a dog's eye view of the holiday decorations. This year, to celebrate the family's last Christmas in the White House, Barney decides on a patriotic theme. However, the task of decorating proves exhausting, leading to an interesting daydream, with Barney capturing Olympic gold medals in gymnastics and swimming and sinking a difficult putt to secure golf's Ryder Cup. Awakened by the President ("We are sprinting to the finish, not napping to the finish!"), Barney is motivated to complete the decorations by Olympic champions Michael Phelps, Garrett Weber-Gale, Nastia Liukin, and Shawn Johnson and NBC's Jimmy Roberts and the U.S. Ryder Cup team. The video features President Bush, First Lady Laura Bush, Barbara Bush (with Willard the Cat!), and Henry and Jenna Hager. Don't miss the amazing soundtrack by the U.S. Marine Band! FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO http://www.whitehouse.gov/holiday/.
______________________________________________________________________
QUOTE TO NOTE
"Pointing out weaknesses makes some people uncomfortable. And, we're hearing lots of reasons why the law's goals of all students on grade level by 2014 can't be achieved. But you know that winning stems from focusing on what's possible, not what seems impossible. Furthermore, as a parent, I want my daughters on grade level now, not six years from now. Why would we think other parents want anything less?.... To me, it comes down to a matter of how much we believe in our kids. If they're having a tough time at home, or if they start off far behind, do we really think that means they're doomed to fail?.... You know that if we have faith in our kids, and if we support them and their teachers, there's no limit to what we can achieve."
-- Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings (12/9/08), speaking at the All-Stars Helping Kids luncheon
______________________________________________________________________
UPCOMING EVENTS
Coming Up Taller Awards (http://www.pcah.gov/cut.htm), sponsored by the President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities, focus national attention on exemplary programs fostering the creative and intellectual development of America's youth. Fifteen awards of $10,000 are presented each year, providing recognition and contributing to continued work. Applications must be postmarked by January 30, 2009.
Scholarships are now available for American students wishing to travel abroad and study languages that are critical to the nation, including Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Hindi, Korean, Russian, and Turkish. Students have the option of three different program lengths: a summer intensive, a semester, or a full academic year. Interested students must: (1) be U.S. citizens, (2) be 15-18 years of age at the start of the program, and (3) be enrolled in high school with at least a 2.5 grade point average. Students may travel abroad during high school or during a "gap year." Applications must be submitted by February 2, 2009. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO http://www.nsliforyouth.org/.
______________________________________________________________________
Please feel free to contact the Office of Communications and Outreach with any questions:
Director, Intergovernmental Affairs -- Rogers Johnson, (202) 401-0026, mailto:Rogers.Johnson@ed.gov
Deputy Director -- Keith Brancato, (202) 401-6178, mailto:Keith.Brancato@ed.gov
Program Analyst -- Adam Honeysett, (202) 401-3003, mailto:Adam.Honeysett@ed.gov
To be added or removed from distribution, or submit comments (we welcome your feedback!),
contact Adam Honeysett. Or, visit http://www.ed.gov/news/newsletters/edreview/.
This newsletter contains hypertext links to information created and maintained by other public and private organizations. These links are provided for the user's convenience. The U.S. Department of Education does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this outside information. Furthermore, the inclusion of links is not intended to reflect their importance, nor is it intended to endorse any views expressed, or products or services offered, on these sites, or the organizations sponsoring the sites.
Friday, December 19, 2008
North Dakota Governor Hoeven's Band and Chorus
NEWS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 18, 2008
Contact: Don Canton or Jody Link
701.328.2200
HOEVEN ANNOUNCES 2008-2009 GOVERNOR’S BAND AND CHORUS
BISMARCK, N.D. – Gov. John Hoeven today announced that the Lewis and Clark Berthold High School Senior Band and the Jamestown High School Choir have been selected to serve as the 2008-2009 Governor’s Official State Band and Chorus. Both organizations will perform during the Joint Session of the 61st North Dakota Legislative Assembly January 6 in Bismarck.
“The Lewis and Clark Berthold High School Senior Band and the Jamestown High School Choir are two very impressive organizations that will represent the state of North Dakota with pride and enthusiasm,” Hoeven said. “As Governor’s Band and Chorus, they exemplify the outstanding musical talent that exists in schools and communities across our state.”
The Lewis and Clark Berthold High School Senior Band, under the direction of Dawna Helfrich, is comprised of 42 students from grades 10-12. In addition to playing at various school and civic events, the band has performed on tour in various U.S. and Canadian cities, including Minneapolis and Winnipeg. Individual members have been selected to participate in honor bands across the state such as Minot State University’s Northwest Festival of Music, Dickinson State University’s Northern Plains Festival of Music and the North Dakota All-State Festival.
The 110-member Jamestown High School Choir is directed by Cheryl McIntyre and performs for numerous school and community events, including festivals, contests, nursing homes, senior citizens banquets and veterans programs. Choir members have traveled to Washington, D.C. and New York City and have performed at venues such as the Statue of Liberty, the United Nations and St. Paul’s Chapel near Ground Zero. Several members of the choir have earned star ratings at regional and state music festivals and have been selected to participate in state, regional and national honor choirs.
The Governor’s Band and Chorus were selected from applications submitted by school and civic groups from across the state based on musical talent, achievement and community involvement. The band and chorus may be invited to perform at official state functions held throughout the year.
-###-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 18, 2008
Contact: Don Canton or Jody Link
701.328.2200
HOEVEN ANNOUNCES 2008-2009 GOVERNOR’S BAND AND CHORUS
BISMARCK, N.D. – Gov. John Hoeven today announced that the Lewis and Clark Berthold High School Senior Band and the Jamestown High School Choir have been selected to serve as the 2008-2009 Governor’s Official State Band and Chorus. Both organizations will perform during the Joint Session of the 61st North Dakota Legislative Assembly January 6 in Bismarck.
“The Lewis and Clark Berthold High School Senior Band and the Jamestown High School Choir are two very impressive organizations that will represent the state of North Dakota with pride and enthusiasm,” Hoeven said. “As Governor’s Band and Chorus, they exemplify the outstanding musical talent that exists in schools and communities across our state.”
The Lewis and Clark Berthold High School Senior Band, under the direction of Dawna Helfrich, is comprised of 42 students from grades 10-12. In addition to playing at various school and civic events, the band has performed on tour in various U.S. and Canadian cities, including Minneapolis and Winnipeg. Individual members have been selected to participate in honor bands across the state such as Minot State University’s Northwest Festival of Music, Dickinson State University’s Northern Plains Festival of Music and the North Dakota All-State Festival.
The 110-member Jamestown High School Choir is directed by Cheryl McIntyre and performs for numerous school and community events, including festivals, contests, nursing homes, senior citizens banquets and veterans programs. Choir members have traveled to Washington, D.C. and New York City and have performed at venues such as the Statue of Liberty, the United Nations and St. Paul’s Chapel near Ground Zero. Several members of the choir have earned star ratings at regional and state music festivals and have been selected to participate in state, regional and national honor choirs.
The Governor’s Band and Chorus were selected from applications submitted by school and civic groups from across the state based on musical talent, achievement and community involvement. The band and chorus may be invited to perform at official state functions held throughout the year.
-###-
Thursday, December 18, 2008
North Dakota Chancellor Goetz' Legislative Budget Video
The following is sent at the request of Chancellor Goetz--
Chancellor's Budget Message to Faculty, Staff and Students:
Dear Friend of Higher Education,
As chancellor of the North Dakota University System, one of my top priorities is to facilitate an engaged dialog with key constituents of higher education. It is my goal to create opportunities for open discussion and an exchange of ideas. To that end, I am providing you a link http://www.ndus.nodak.edu/reports/default.asp?ID=524 to a video message created to communicate with faculty, staff and students about the University System's 2009-11 budget request.
--
Chancellor's Budget Message to Faculty, Staff and Students:
Dear Friend of Higher Education,
As chancellor of the North Dakota University System, one of my top priorities is to facilitate an engaged dialog with key constituents of higher education. It is my goal to create opportunities for open discussion and an exchange of ideas. To that end, I am providing you a link http://www.ndus.nodak.edu/reports/default.asp?ID=524 to a video message created to communicate with faculty, staff and students about the University System's 2009-11 budget request.
--
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
North Dakota Legislative Council -- The Budget Section
NORTH DAKOTA LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Minutes of the
BUDGET SECTION
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Senate Chamber, State Capitol
Bismarck, North Dakota
Senator Ray Holmberg, Chairman, called the
meeting to order at 11:15 a.m.
Members present: Senators Ray Holmberg, Bill
Bowman, Randel Christmann, Tom Fischer, Tony S.
Grindberg, Ralph L. Kilzer, Aaron Krauter, Karen K.
Krebsbach, Elroy N. Lindaas, Tim Mathern, Carolyn
Nelson, David O'Connell, Larry J. Robinson, Tom
Seymour, Bob Stenehjem, Rich Wardner, John
Warner; Representatives Larry Bellew, Merle
Boucher, Al Carlson, Jeff Delzer, Mark A. Dosch, Mary
Ekstrom, Eliot Glassheim, Kathy Hawken, Lee Kaldor,
Keith Kempenich, Matthew M. Klein, Gary Kreidt, Joe
Kroeber, Bob Martinson, Shirley Meyer, David
Monson, Jon Nelson, Kenton Onstad, Chet Pollert,
Bob Skarphol, Ken Svedjan, Blair Thoreson, Don
Vigesaa, Francis J. Wald, Alon C. Wieland, Clark
Williams
Members absent: Representatives Rick Berg,
James Kerzman, Ralph Metcalf
Others present: Jim W. Smith, Legislative
Council, Bismarck
See appendix for additional persons present.
STATUS OF THE STATE GENERAL FUND
Chairman Holmberg called on Ms. Pam Sharp,
Director, Office of Management and Budget, to report
on the status of the general fund. A copy of the
information presented is on file in the Legislative
Council office.
Ms. Sharp presented the following information on
the status of the state general fund for the 2007-09
biennium based on revenue collections through
October 2008:
Unobligated general fund
balance - July 1, 2007
$295,541,176
Add
General fund collections
through October 2008
$1,764,459,951
Forecasted general fund
revenue for the remainder
of the 2007-09 biennium
(based on the December
2008 revised forecast)
917,438,844
Total estimated general fund
revenue for the 2007-09
biennium
$2,681,898,795
Total available $2,977,439,971
Less
2007-09 biennium general
fund ongoing
appropriations
($2,317,447,307)
2007-09 biennium general
fund one-time
appropriations
(139,526,649)
Contingent appropriation
(Section 50 of Senate Bill
No. 2200)
(5,000,000)
Recommended
supplemental
appropriations
(22,532,907)1
Total appropriations ($2,484,506,863)
Estimated transfer to the
budget stabilization fund1
($111,092,167)2
Add
Estimated unspent
authority
10,000,000
Estimated general fund
balance - June 30, 2009
$391,840,941
1Recommended supplemental (deficiency) appropriations include:
Office of Management and Budget $5,000,000
Attorney General 99,000
University of North Dakota 1,310,955
North Dakota State University 527,842
Veterans Home 12,036,404
Adjutant General 3,422,553
Main Research Center 100,499
Central Grasslands Research Center 13,560
North Central Research Center 22,094
Total recommended supplemental
appropriations
$22,532,907
2The estimated transfer is based on the required balance in the
budget stabilization fund as determined by total appropriations in
the Governor's recommended 2009-11 budget.
Ms. Sharp said revenues for the biennium through
October 2008 exceed the legislative forecast by
$296.3 million or 20 percent. She said because the
$71 million statutory cap for the 2007-09 biennium has
been reached, no additional oil tax collections will be
deposited in the general fund during the 2007-09
biennium, and through October 2008 oil tax
collections totaling $343.6 million have been
transferred, or are available for transfer, to the
permanent oil tax trust fund.
Ms. Sharp presented the following information on
the status of the permanent oil tax trust fund for the
2007-09 biennium:
Budget Section 2 December 3, 2008
Beginning permanent oil tax trust fund
balance - July 1, 2007
$143,270,662
Add
Revenue collections through October 2008 343,619,952
Forecasted revenues for the remainder of
the 2007-09 biennium (based on December
2008 revised forecast)
221,365,074
Total estimated permanent oil tax trust funds
available for the 2007-09 biennium
$708,255,688
Less expenditures and transfers 145,716,541
Estimated permanent oil tax trust fund
balance - June 30, 2009
$562,539,147
TOBACCO SETTLEMENT PROCEEDS
Ms. Sharp presented information on the status of
tobacco settlement proceeds received by North
Dakota. She said the state received its tobacco
settlement payment in April 2008. She said the total
settlement payments received to date are
$233.2 million and the next payment is anticipated to
be received in April 2009. A copy of the report is on
file in the Legislative Council office.
2009-11 EXECUTIVE BUDGET
REVENUE FORECAST
Ms. Sharp presented the executive budget
revenue forecast for the 2009-11 biennium; one-time
revenues, including beginning balance; and proposed
statutory changes affecting revenues. She said the
estimated June 30, 2009, general fund balance is
$391.8 million and 2009-11 general fund revenues are
estimated to total $2.8 billion, resulting in an estimated
$3.2 billion available for the 2009-11 biennium. She
said the recommended general fund appropriations for
the 2009-11 biennium total $3.1 billion, of which
$2.8 billion relates to ongoing appropriations and
$357 million to one-time appropriations. She said the
estimated June 30, 2011, general fund balance is
$65 million. She said the forecast is based on an
increase in the maximum amount of oil revenue that
can be deposited in the general fund from $71 million
to $110 million. She said for purposes of the forecast,
all transfers from the Bank of North Dakota, the Mill
and Elevator, the lands and minerals trust fund, and
gas tax are considered ongoing revenue. A copy of
the report is on file in the Legislative Council office.
Ms. Sharp said permanent oil tax trust fund
revenues for the 2009-11 biennium are estimated to
total $566 million based on oil prices that range from
$50 to $68 and production assumptions that range
from 185,000 barrels per day to 215,000 barrels per
day through fiscal year 2011. She said the revenues,
added to the estimated June 30, 2009, balance of
$563 million, would result in funds available in the
permanent oil tax trust fund of $1.129 billion. She
said a recommended continuing appropriation for
property tax relief of $300 million would result in an
estimated June 30, 2011, balance of $829 million in
the permanent oil tax trust fund.
Ms. Sharp said the Office of Management and
Budget will update the revenue forecast for
presentation to the 2009 Legislative Assembly on
February 9, 2009.
In response to a question from Senator Holmberg,
Ms. Sharp said estimated revenues are based on the
estimated price of North Dakota oil being discounted
by $10 per barrel for additional transportation costs
due to limited pipeline capacity. She said the
transportation discount has been applied for fiscal
years 2009 and 2010, but not fiscal year 2011.
Ms. Sharp presented information regarding
statutory changes affecting revenues that will be
proposed to the 2009 Legislative Assembly. She said
in addition to increasing the maximum amount of oil
revenue deposited in the general fund from
$71 million to $110 million, statutory changes include
a change in the allowable transfer from the budget
stabilization fund in the event of a revenue shortfall;
eliminating the $5 million transfer from the Mill and
Elevator to the general fund for the 2007-09 biennium;
an increase in energy impact grants from $6 million to
$20 million; a $1 million increase in the maximum
annual amount distributed to each oil and gas
producing county from the gross production tax; an
increase, from $3 million to $5 million, in the maximum
amount of oil and gas gross production tax and oil
extraction tax revenues deposited in the oil and gas
research fund; $300 million in property tax relief; and
a reduction in individual income tax. A copy of the
report is on file in the Legislative Council office.
APPROPRIATION BILL FORMAT FOR THE
2009 LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Ms. Sharp reviewed a sample of the appropriation
bill format for the 2009 legislative session. She
presented a three-column format that includes fulltime
equivalent (FTE) employee amounts. She said
the appropriation bill format will include a line item for
deferred maintenance and a section authorizing the
agency to transfer from the deferred maintenance line
item to the capital assets line item as necessary to
address extraordinary repair needs without
Emergency Commission approval. A copy of the
information presented is on file in the Legislative
Council office.
In response to a question from Representative
Svedjan, Ms. Sharp said the Office of Management
and Budget was not planning to identify one-time
funding in the appropriation bills. She said one-time
funding may be included in multiple line items of an
agency's budget.
Representative Svedjan suggested the Office of
Management and Budget exclude 2007-09 one-time
funding items from agencies' 2009-11 base funding
level and identify one-time items in a separate section
of the appropriation bill. Ms. Sharp said the Office of
Management and Budget may need additional time to
prepare the appropriation bills due to this request.
Budget Section 3 December 3, 2008
It was moved by Representative Svedjan,
seconded by Representative Skarphol, and carried
on a roll call vote that the Budget Section,
pursuant to North Dakota Century Code Section
54-44.1-07:
1. Request the Office of Management and
Budget to prepare the appropriation bills
for introduction to the 2009 Legislative
Assembly to reflect:
• The exclusion from the base level
funding column of any one-time
funding items approved by the 2007
Legislative Assembly; and
• The identification, using a two-column
format in a separate section of the bill,
of the one-time funding items approved
by the 2007 Legislative Assembly and
the one-time funding items
recommended in the 2009-11 executive
budget for each agency.
2. Allow the Office of Management and
Budget an extension of seven days,
until December 17, 2008, to submit
appropriation bills to the Legislative
Council.
Senators Holmberg, Bowman, Christmann,
Fischer, Grindberg, Kilzer, Krauter, Krebsbach,
Lindaas, Mathern, Nelson, O'Connell, Robinson,
Seymour, Wardner, and Warner and Representatives
Bellew, Dosch, Ekstrom, Glassheim, Hawken, Kaldor,
Kempenich, Klein, Kreidt, Kroeber, Martinson, Meyer,
Monson, Nelson, Onstad, Pollert, Skarphol, Svedjan,
Vigesaa, Wald, Wieland, and Williams voted "aye."
No negative votes were cast.
The Budget Section recessed for lunch at
12:30 p.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m.
ECONOMIC OUTLOOK FOR THE UNITED
STATES AND NORTH DAKOTA
Chairman Holmberg called on Mr. Steven G.
Cochrane, Managing Director, Economy.com, to
present information regarding the economic
assumptions included in the executive budget revenue
forecast for the 2009-11 biennium; the North Dakota
economic outlook, including oil prices and agriculture
commodity prices; and the impact of the state's oil
industry on state revenues. A copy of the information
presented is on file in the Legislative Council office.
Mr. Cochrane said two-thirds of the nation is in a
recession that began in December 2007 and he has
seen no positive indicators nationally. He said North
Dakota's economy is still growing, but that growth has
slowed. He said North Dakota's housing price index
has shown slow, continued growth. He said the state
did not experience the large changes in housing
values that is causing economic concerns in the
majority of other states. He said his company's latest
analysis of gross domestic product indicates a longer
and more gradual recovery than previous analyses.
Mr. Cochrane said that while increases in wealth
generate more spending, it is increasing income that
is sustaining the North Dakota economy. He said
North Dakota's per capita income has increased over
20 percent in the last year. He said the global
recession will most likely result in decreases in
demand for North Dakota's manufactured goods and
commodities and will slow the state's income growth.
He said oil prices are expected to increase during
2009 and 2010, and stabilize at approximately $70 per
barrel for West Texas intermediate crude oil through
2013.
AGENCY REQUESTS AUTHORIZED BY
THE EMERGENCY COMMISSION
Chairman Holmberg directed the committee to
consider agency requests which have been
authorized by the Emergency Commission and
forwarded to the Budget Section pursuant to North
Dakota Century Code (NDCC) Sections 54-16-04,
54-16-04.1, and 54-16-04.2. The information relating
to the requests is on file in the Legislative Council
office.
It was moved by Representative Svedjan,
seconded by Senator Robinson, and carried on a
roll call vote that, pursuant to NDCC Sections
54-16-04, 54-16-04.1, and 54-16-04.2, the Budget
Section approve the following requests, which
have been approved by the Emergency
Commission:
• Racing Commission (Request #1687) - To
increase special funds spending authority
by $76,089 for Attorney General legal fees
($45,634), a contingency for future legal fees
($12,000), and for settlement fees awarded
by a district court in a civil case ($18,455).
• Public Service Commission (Request
#1688) - To increase the operating expenses
line item by $100,000 of special funds for
expert assistance and other costs
associated with analyzing and deciding
public utility rate cases for regulated
investor-owned utilities.
• Department of Commerce (Request #1689) -
To increase federal funds spending
authority by $19,600,000 for the operating
expenses line item ($1,960,000) and grants
line item ($17,640,000) to provide financial
assistance for the redevelopment of
abandoned and foreclosed homes to benefit
low-income citizens.
• Mill and Elevator (Request #1690) - To
increase spending authority by $4 million of
other funds for the operating line item
($4 million) for higher than anticipated
interest expenses related to market factors
requiring a larger than anticipated operating
line of credit with the Bank of North Dakota.
• State Department of Health (Request
#1692) - To increase the women, infants, and
Budget Section 4 December 3, 2008
children (WIC) line item by $2,750,000 to
accept federal funds from the United States
Department of Agriculture WIC program for
increased costs of the program.
• Veterans Home (Request #1694) - To
transfer $300,000 from the salaries and
wages line item to the operating expenses
line item to provide for increased operating
expenses related to contract nursing and
other operating costs, including utilities,
travel, and supplies.
• Secretary of State (Request #1696) - To
increase special funds spending authority
by $165,520 for the salaries and wages line
item ($67,757) and for the operating
expenses line item ($97,763) for expenses
associated with the agency's data
processing information technology project.
Senators Holmberg, Bowman, Christmann,
Grindberg, Kilzer, Krebsbach, Lindaas, Mathern,
Nelson, O'Connell, Robinson, Seymour, Wardner, and
Warner and Representatives Boucher, Dosch,
Ekstrom, Glassheim, Hawken, Kaldor, Kempenich,
Klein, Kreidt, Kroeber, Martinson, Meyer, Monson,
Nelson, Onstad, Pollert, Skarphol, Svedjan, Vigesaa,
Wald, and Wieland voted "aye." No negative votes
were cast.
2009-11 EXECUTIVE BUDGET
RECOMMENDATIONS
Chairman Holmberg called on Ms. Sheila
Peterson, Director, Fiscal Management Division,
Office of Management and Budget, to present
information regarding the 2009-11 executive budget.
She directed the Budget Section members to the
detailed budget books provided to legislators. She
reported on the 2009-11 executive budget
recommendations for information technology, onetime
budget investments, state employee
compensation and benefits, capital projects, and
bonding for capital projects. She said the budget
includes funding to continue to pay the full cost of
health insurance premiums for state employees. She
said the budgeted cost for health insurance is $826
per month per employee, a 25.5 percent increase
compared to the 2007-09 biennium rate of $658. She
said the recommended state employee compensation
package provides a 5 percent average salary increase
with a $100 per month minimum, effective July 1,
2009, and a 5 percent average salary increase with a
$100 per month minimum, effective July 1, 2010. She
said the salary increases are to be based on merit and
equity and are not to be given across the board. She
said the compensation package also includes
$23 million, of which $13 million is from the general
fund, to address salary equity issues for certain
agencies. She said agencies will have flexibility to
use salary equity funding to address salary issues
relating to the competitive employment market, salary
issues in targeted occupations, and internal agency
and interagency salary equity issues.
Ms. Peterson said the executive recommendation
for capital projects totals $380.5 million, of which
$127.8 million is from the general fund. She said the
largest capital project is the $67 million prison
expansion project for the Department of Corrections
and Rehabilitation.
Ms. Peterson said none of the capital projects
recommended in the 2009-11 biennium require
bonding. Based on statutory bond payment
guidelines, the state could issue bonds of up to
$60 million for the 2009-11 biennium and still be within
statutory guidelines.
Ms. Peterson said the executive recommendation
includes $357.2 million in one-time funding
investments. She said the executive recommendation
also includes information technology projects that
were ranked by the Statewide Information Technology
Advisory Committee. She said information technology
projects to be paid from the general fund total
$12.5 million and are included as one-time
investments. A copy of the reports is on file in the
Legislative Council office.
Mr. Joe Morrissette, Office of Management and
Budget, presented information on the executive
budget recommendation for the Department of Public
Instruction. He said the North Dakota Commission on
Education Improvement recommends formula
changes to provide funding for regional education
associations, assessments, career advisors, tutors, a
state prekindergarten program, and one extra day in
the school calendar. He said the recommendation of
$837.1 million for state school aid is an increase of
$111 million or 15.3 percent from the 2007-09
biennium. He said the recommendation also includes
$38.5 million for transportation payments,
$15.5 million for special education contracts, and
$2.3 million for a new mentoring program to provide
training and support for new teachers.
Representative Skarphol asked the Legislative
Council staff to provide information on the estimated
cost to continue the recommended state aid to
schools payment level for the 2011-13 biennium.
Mr. Morrissette discussed the executive budget
recommendation for the Department of Career and
Technical Education. He said the recommendation
provides for $2 million, an increase of $800,000, to
continue the virtual area career and technical
education center initiative authorized by the 2007
Legislative Assembly. He said the recommendation
provides $1.6 million to increase career and technical
education program reimbursement rates and equalize
reimbursement rates among various programs.
Mr. Morrissette discussed the executive budget
recommendation for the Department of Corrections
and Rehabilitation. He said the recommendation
provides $5.6 million to maintain existing programs
and services at contract rates and population levels
anticipated for the 2009-11 biennium. He said the
recommendation provides an additional 32 FTE
Budget Section 5 December 3, 2008
positions, including 21 FTE positions that are currently
temporary positions and 11 new FTE positions. He
said the 2007 Legislative Assembly appropriated
$41 million for the proposed construction and
renovation project at the State Penitentiary and with
interest the funds available are anticipated to total
$44.5 million. He said the recommendation provides
an additional $22.5 million from the general fund for a
total project cost of $67 million.
Mr. Morrissette discussed the executive budget
recommendation for the State Historical Society. He
said the recommendation includes $30 million, of
which $18 million is from the general fund, for
construction of an addition to the Heritage Center.
Mr. Morrissette discussed the executive budget
recommendation for the Department of
Transportation. He said the recommendation includes
$7.5 million to replace the department's drivers
records computer system and a one-time $120 million
transfer from the general fund to the highway tax
distribution fund for infrastructure maintenance, repair,
and improvement projects for the state and political
subdivisions.
Senator O'Connell asked the Office of
Management and Budget to provide information
comparing the highway tax distribution fund
allocations under current law to the recommended
allocations. Mr. Morrissette said he would provide the
information.
Ms. Sandy Deis, Office of Management and
Budget, presented information on the executive
budget recommendation for the North Dakota
University System. She said the recommendation
includes $614.2 million from the general fund, which is
an increase of $145.6 million from the 2007-09
biennium.
Ms. Deis said the recommendation provides:
• $24 million for one-time investments such as
emergency preparedness, security, and
maintenance and repairs of buildings;
• $50 million for capital projects and the
development of campus master plans;
• $49 million for campus parity distributions;
• $10 million for equity payments;
• $40 million for student financial assistance
grants from the general fund, an increase of
$34 million;
• $2 million for the North Dakota Scholars
program;
• $600,000 for the University of North Dakota
School of Medicine and Health Sciences for a
new scholarship program to encourage
students to pursue family medicine careers in
rural areas;
• $1.335 million for security staff and coordinators
to develop a statewide plan for emergency
preparedness and campus security;
• $1.275 million to stabilize the operations of the
Bismarck and Minot Centers for Family
Medicine;
• $400,000 for the Space Grant Consortium; and
• $800,000 of additional general fund support for
the Experimental Program to Stimulate
Competitive Research.
Ms. Lori Laschkewitsch, Office of Management and
Budget, presented information on the executive
budget recommendation for the State Department of
Health. She said the recommendation includes
$321,910, of which $215,680 is from the general fund,
and two FTE positions to conduct life safety
inspections for construction and renovation projects of
basic care and long-term care facilities. She said the
recommendation increases funding for the medical
personnel loan program by $195,000 and the dental
loan repayment program by $200,000. She said the
recommendation also provides a special fund
appropriation of $18.6 million for the Comprehensive
Tobacco Control Advisory Committee.
Ms. Laschkewitsch presented information on the
executive budget recommendation for the Veterans
Home. She said the recommendation includes a
2007-09 supplemental appropriation to increase
funding for the completion of the new Veterans Home,
including furniture, fixtures, and equipment, by
$13.3 million, of which $12 million is from the general
fund. She said the recommendation includes
$110,088 in temporary salaries for a project manager
to oversee construction of the new facility, provides
$133,600 for e-charting software, and authorizes
14.8 additional FTE positions for the new building.
Ms. Laschkewitsch presented information on the
executive budget recommendation for the Department
of Human Services. She said the recommendation
includes $40.1 million, of which $14.8 million is from
the general fund, to rebase payment rates for medical
assistance program providers. She said the
recommendation also increases the eligibility income
limits for the state children's health insurance program
at a cost of $1.1 million from the general fund,
provides $600,000 from the general fund to establish
an aging and disability resource center as a single
point of entry for long-term care services for the
elderly and disabled, and enhances the funding to
senior services providers by $900,000 to assist with
the costs of providing meals to the elderly.
Ms. Tammy Dolan, Office of Management and
Budget, presented information on the executive
budget recommendation for the Adjutant General.
She said the recommendation expands the veterans'
bonus program by $500,000 from the general fund to
address multiple deployments. She said the
recommendation also includes a $3.6 million
investment in State Radio, including $2.1 million from
the general fund, to develop a statewide seamless
base map; $1 million from the general fund to
enhance computer-aided dispatch; and $500,000 to
lease or purchase State Radio tower space in
selected areas of the state where radio reception is
not adequate.
Ms. Dolan presented information on the executive
budget recommendation for the Agricultural
Budget Section 6 December 3, 2008
Experiment Station and the Extension Service. She
said the recommendation includes $2.7 million from
the general fund and seven FTE positions to provide
for crop disease management; extension specialist
operating support; utilities for the new greenhouse; an
increase for extraordinary repairs; and pulse, oilseed,
and wheat quality and product evaluation. She said
the recommendation includes one-time funding from
the general fund for capital projects, including
$11.4 million to complete the greenhouse facility,
$2.6 million to complete construction of the beef
research facility, and $2.9 million for office building
additions and renovation projects at the North Central,
Williston, Langdon, and Dickinson Research Centers.
Ms. Dolan presented information on the executive
budget recommendation for the State Water
Commission. She said the recommendation includes
two FTE positions--one hydrologist to address the
increasing volume of water permits and an engineer
technician to operate the Northwest Area Water
Supply pipeline--and $433,990, of which $373,213 is
from the general fund, to address salary equity issues.
SPECIFIC EXEMPT
COMMODITIES AND SERVICES
Chairman Holmberg called on Ms. Sherry Neas,
State Procurement Manager, Office of Management
and Budget, to report on the specified commodities
and services exempted from the procurement
requirements of NDCC Chapter 54-44.4. She said the
Office of Management and Budget has exempted few
commodities and services from the state procurement
system. She said the administrative rules related to
state procurement--North Dakota Administrative Code
Article 4-12--that became effective in August 2004
identify commodities and services that are not
procurements, such as professional memberships and
grants, and identifies exemptions to the rules. She
said the list of exemptions also identifies commodities
and services that are subject to other statutes for the
procurement or selection process, such as
appointments of a special or an assistant attorney
general, public improvements, concessions, and
engineers. A copy of the information presented is on
file in the Legislative Council office.
DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
Chairman Holmberg called on Ms. Jennifer
Witham, Director, Information Technology Services,
Department of Human Services, to present
information regarding the status of the Medicaid
management information system project pursuant to
Section 3 of 2007 Senate Bill No. 2024. She said in
November 2008, the department agreed to a request
by ACS State Healthcare, LLC, for a 10-month delay
to the project schedule with the understanding that the
state will not be responsible for additional costs
resulting from the delay. She provided the following
project funding summary:
Description Budget
Spent
Through
October 2008 Remaining
General fund $3,643,133 $1,551,169 $2,091,964
Federal funds 55,218,418 19,720,674 35,497,744
Other funds 3,667,820 1,007,597 2,660,223
Total project $62,529,371 $22,279,440 $40,249,931
A copy of the report is on file in the Legislative
Council office.
VETERANS HOME PROJECT
Chairman Holmberg called on Mr. Mark B.
Johnson, Administrator, Veterans Home, to present
information regarding the status of the Veterans Home
construction project pursuant to Section 4 of 2007
Senate Bill No. 2418. He said construction of the new
Veterans Home was approved by the 2007 Legislative
Assembly with an appropriation of $21.1 million of
state and federal funds. He said subsequent to
legislative approval, the scope of the project was
changed to meet federal Department of Veterans
Affairs guidelines. He said the change increased the
size of the facility by 20,000 square feet and resulted
in increased construction costs. He said the Veterans
Home requested and received Emergency
Commission and Budget Section approval to increase
the project to $25.6 million in March 2008. He said
bids for the Veterans Home construction project were
received in September 2008 and totaled $30.8 million.
He said the Veterans Home has rejected all of the
bids and is rebidding the project. He said the new
bids will be opened January 27, 2009. He said a
separate appropriation bill totaling $13.3 million, of
which $12 million is from the general fund, will be
introduced to the 2009 Legislative Assembly to
increase funding for completion of the new Veterans
Home and that the funding must be approved by both
the House of Representatives and the Senate by
March 1, 2009, to qualify for federal Department of
Veterans Affairs funds.
INDUSTRIAL COMMISSION
Chairman Holmberg called on Mr. Lynn Helms,
Director, Department of Mineral Resources, Industrial
Commission, to present information regarding
revenues and expenditures of the abandoned oil and
gas well plugging and site reclamation fund; the
geophysical, geothermal, subsurface minerals, and
coal exploration fund; and the geologic data
preservation fund to date for the biennium beginning
July 1, 2007, and ending June 30, 2009, pursuant to
Section 7 of 2007 House Bill No. 1060. A copy of the
report is on file in the Legislative Council office.
Mr. Helms presented revenue and balance
information for the abandoned oil and gas well
plugging and site reclamation fund. He said revenue
deposited in the fund for the 2007-09 biennium
through October 2008 was $239,625, $134,625 more
than the anticipated revenue of $105,000. He said the
fund balance was $458,350 on October 31, 2008. He
Budget Section 7 December 3, 2008
said the increased revenue is due to higher than
anticipated drilling activity. He said the fund's
outstanding liabilities for the plugging and reclamation
of four oil and gas wells in Grenora Field total
$250,000. He said possible liabilities include the
plugging and reclaiming of three oil and gas wells and
one saltwater disposal well in Tioga Field, the cost of
which could total an additional $250,000. He said it is
likely those wells will be transferred to a new operator
interested in returning them to production.
Senator Krauter asked for information on the status
of gas production in the state. Mr. Helms said he
would provide the information.
Mr. Helms presented revenue and balance
information for the geophysical, geothermal,
subsurface minerals, and coal exploration fund. He
said revenue for the 2007-09 biennium through
October 2008 totaled $11,680. He said the fund
balance on October 31, 2008, was $12,565. He said
the fund has no outstanding liabilities. He said the
maximum potential liability, calculated based on
percentages and historical costs, would be $498,500
extended over a long period of time.
Mr. Helms presented revenue and balance
information for the geologic data preservation fund.
He said there has been no activity in the fund and the
fund balance is zero as of October 31, 2008. He said
federal revenue of $100,000 was anticipated, but the
funds were never appropriated by Congress. He said
the fund will focus on potential private sector
contributions and on developing a subscription service
website where oil and gas companies can pay to
access information.
GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT
Chairman Holmberg called on Mr. Roger Rostvet,
Deputy Director, Game and Fish Department, to
present information regarding a report on the
recruitment and retention of hunters in North Dakota
pursuant to Section 7 of 2007 Senate Bill No. 2017.
He said the department contracted for the study that
included telephone surveys of North Dakota residents
18 years of age and older and a separate children's
survey. He said the study confirmed youth education
and recruitment efforts are working and North Dakota
is second only to Montana for active participation in
hunting activity. He said data sources examined by
researchers indicated that hunting participation in
North Dakota has increased, including a substantial
increase in out-of-state hunters. He said researchers
concluded that women should not be the highest
priority for hunting recruitment as they generally
showed less interest in hunting and were less
responsive to various motivators. He said copies of
the full report are available from the department. A
copy of the report is on file in the Legislative Council
office.
COMMITTEE DISCUSSION AND
STAFF DIRECTIVES
It was moved by Senator Robinson, seconded
by Senator Nelson, and carried on a voice vote
that the Budget Section meeting be adjourned
subject to the call of the chair.
Chairman Holmberg adjourned the meeting at
4:45 p.m.
___________________________________________
Sheila M. Sandness
Fiscal Analyst
___________________________________________
Allen H. Knudson
Legislative Budget Analyst and Auditor
ATTACH:1
Minutes of the
BUDGET SECTION
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Senate Chamber, State Capitol
Bismarck, North Dakota
Senator Ray Holmberg, Chairman, called the
meeting to order at 11:15 a.m.
Members present: Senators Ray Holmberg, Bill
Bowman, Randel Christmann, Tom Fischer, Tony S.
Grindberg, Ralph L. Kilzer, Aaron Krauter, Karen K.
Krebsbach, Elroy N. Lindaas, Tim Mathern, Carolyn
Nelson, David O'Connell, Larry J. Robinson, Tom
Seymour, Bob Stenehjem, Rich Wardner, John
Warner; Representatives Larry Bellew, Merle
Boucher, Al Carlson, Jeff Delzer, Mark A. Dosch, Mary
Ekstrom, Eliot Glassheim, Kathy Hawken, Lee Kaldor,
Keith Kempenich, Matthew M. Klein, Gary Kreidt, Joe
Kroeber, Bob Martinson, Shirley Meyer, David
Monson, Jon Nelson, Kenton Onstad, Chet Pollert,
Bob Skarphol, Ken Svedjan, Blair Thoreson, Don
Vigesaa, Francis J. Wald, Alon C. Wieland, Clark
Williams
Members absent: Representatives Rick Berg,
James Kerzman, Ralph Metcalf
Others present: Jim W. Smith, Legislative
Council, Bismarck
See appendix for additional persons present.
STATUS OF THE STATE GENERAL FUND
Chairman Holmberg called on Ms. Pam Sharp,
Director, Office of Management and Budget, to report
on the status of the general fund. A copy of the
information presented is on file in the Legislative
Council office.
Ms. Sharp presented the following information on
the status of the state general fund for the 2007-09
biennium based on revenue collections through
October 2008:
Unobligated general fund
balance - July 1, 2007
$295,541,176
Add
General fund collections
through October 2008
$1,764,459,951
Forecasted general fund
revenue for the remainder
of the 2007-09 biennium
(based on the December
2008 revised forecast)
917,438,844
Total estimated general fund
revenue for the 2007-09
biennium
$2,681,898,795
Total available $2,977,439,971
Less
2007-09 biennium general
fund ongoing
appropriations
($2,317,447,307)
2007-09 biennium general
fund one-time
appropriations
(139,526,649)
Contingent appropriation
(Section 50 of Senate Bill
No. 2200)
(5,000,000)
Recommended
supplemental
appropriations
(22,532,907)1
Total appropriations ($2,484,506,863)
Estimated transfer to the
budget stabilization fund1
($111,092,167)2
Add
Estimated unspent
authority
10,000,000
Estimated general fund
balance - June 30, 2009
$391,840,941
1Recommended supplemental (deficiency) appropriations include:
Office of Management and Budget $5,000,000
Attorney General 99,000
University of North Dakota 1,310,955
North Dakota State University 527,842
Veterans Home 12,036,404
Adjutant General 3,422,553
Main Research Center 100,499
Central Grasslands Research Center 13,560
North Central Research Center 22,094
Total recommended supplemental
appropriations
$22,532,907
2The estimated transfer is based on the required balance in the
budget stabilization fund as determined by total appropriations in
the Governor's recommended 2009-11 budget.
Ms. Sharp said revenues for the biennium through
October 2008 exceed the legislative forecast by
$296.3 million or 20 percent. She said because the
$71 million statutory cap for the 2007-09 biennium has
been reached, no additional oil tax collections will be
deposited in the general fund during the 2007-09
biennium, and through October 2008 oil tax
collections totaling $343.6 million have been
transferred, or are available for transfer, to the
permanent oil tax trust fund.
Ms. Sharp presented the following information on
the status of the permanent oil tax trust fund for the
2007-09 biennium:
Budget Section 2 December 3, 2008
Beginning permanent oil tax trust fund
balance - July 1, 2007
$143,270,662
Add
Revenue collections through October 2008 343,619,952
Forecasted revenues for the remainder of
the 2007-09 biennium (based on December
2008 revised forecast)
221,365,074
Total estimated permanent oil tax trust funds
available for the 2007-09 biennium
$708,255,688
Less expenditures and transfers 145,716,541
Estimated permanent oil tax trust fund
balance - June 30, 2009
$562,539,147
TOBACCO SETTLEMENT PROCEEDS
Ms. Sharp presented information on the status of
tobacco settlement proceeds received by North
Dakota. She said the state received its tobacco
settlement payment in April 2008. She said the total
settlement payments received to date are
$233.2 million and the next payment is anticipated to
be received in April 2009. A copy of the report is on
file in the Legislative Council office.
2009-11 EXECUTIVE BUDGET
REVENUE FORECAST
Ms. Sharp presented the executive budget
revenue forecast for the 2009-11 biennium; one-time
revenues, including beginning balance; and proposed
statutory changes affecting revenues. She said the
estimated June 30, 2009, general fund balance is
$391.8 million and 2009-11 general fund revenues are
estimated to total $2.8 billion, resulting in an estimated
$3.2 billion available for the 2009-11 biennium. She
said the recommended general fund appropriations for
the 2009-11 biennium total $3.1 billion, of which
$2.8 billion relates to ongoing appropriations and
$357 million to one-time appropriations. She said the
estimated June 30, 2011, general fund balance is
$65 million. She said the forecast is based on an
increase in the maximum amount of oil revenue that
can be deposited in the general fund from $71 million
to $110 million. She said for purposes of the forecast,
all transfers from the Bank of North Dakota, the Mill
and Elevator, the lands and minerals trust fund, and
gas tax are considered ongoing revenue. A copy of
the report is on file in the Legislative Council office.
Ms. Sharp said permanent oil tax trust fund
revenues for the 2009-11 biennium are estimated to
total $566 million based on oil prices that range from
$50 to $68 and production assumptions that range
from 185,000 barrels per day to 215,000 barrels per
day through fiscal year 2011. She said the revenues,
added to the estimated June 30, 2009, balance of
$563 million, would result in funds available in the
permanent oil tax trust fund of $1.129 billion. She
said a recommended continuing appropriation for
property tax relief of $300 million would result in an
estimated June 30, 2011, balance of $829 million in
the permanent oil tax trust fund.
Ms. Sharp said the Office of Management and
Budget will update the revenue forecast for
presentation to the 2009 Legislative Assembly on
February 9, 2009.
In response to a question from Senator Holmberg,
Ms. Sharp said estimated revenues are based on the
estimated price of North Dakota oil being discounted
by $10 per barrel for additional transportation costs
due to limited pipeline capacity. She said the
transportation discount has been applied for fiscal
years 2009 and 2010, but not fiscal year 2011.
Ms. Sharp presented information regarding
statutory changes affecting revenues that will be
proposed to the 2009 Legislative Assembly. She said
in addition to increasing the maximum amount of oil
revenue deposited in the general fund from
$71 million to $110 million, statutory changes include
a change in the allowable transfer from the budget
stabilization fund in the event of a revenue shortfall;
eliminating the $5 million transfer from the Mill and
Elevator to the general fund for the 2007-09 biennium;
an increase in energy impact grants from $6 million to
$20 million; a $1 million increase in the maximum
annual amount distributed to each oil and gas
producing county from the gross production tax; an
increase, from $3 million to $5 million, in the maximum
amount of oil and gas gross production tax and oil
extraction tax revenues deposited in the oil and gas
research fund; $300 million in property tax relief; and
a reduction in individual income tax. A copy of the
report is on file in the Legislative Council office.
APPROPRIATION BILL FORMAT FOR THE
2009 LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Ms. Sharp reviewed a sample of the appropriation
bill format for the 2009 legislative session. She
presented a three-column format that includes fulltime
equivalent (FTE) employee amounts. She said
the appropriation bill format will include a line item for
deferred maintenance and a section authorizing the
agency to transfer from the deferred maintenance line
item to the capital assets line item as necessary to
address extraordinary repair needs without
Emergency Commission approval. A copy of the
information presented is on file in the Legislative
Council office.
In response to a question from Representative
Svedjan, Ms. Sharp said the Office of Management
and Budget was not planning to identify one-time
funding in the appropriation bills. She said one-time
funding may be included in multiple line items of an
agency's budget.
Representative Svedjan suggested the Office of
Management and Budget exclude 2007-09 one-time
funding items from agencies' 2009-11 base funding
level and identify one-time items in a separate section
of the appropriation bill. Ms. Sharp said the Office of
Management and Budget may need additional time to
prepare the appropriation bills due to this request.
Budget Section 3 December 3, 2008
It was moved by Representative Svedjan,
seconded by Representative Skarphol, and carried
on a roll call vote that the Budget Section,
pursuant to North Dakota Century Code Section
54-44.1-07:
1. Request the Office of Management and
Budget to prepare the appropriation bills
for introduction to the 2009 Legislative
Assembly to reflect:
• The exclusion from the base level
funding column of any one-time
funding items approved by the 2007
Legislative Assembly; and
• The identification, using a two-column
format in a separate section of the bill,
of the one-time funding items approved
by the 2007 Legislative Assembly and
the one-time funding items
recommended in the 2009-11 executive
budget for each agency.
2. Allow the Office of Management and
Budget an extension of seven days,
until December 17, 2008, to submit
appropriation bills to the Legislative
Council.
Senators Holmberg, Bowman, Christmann,
Fischer, Grindberg, Kilzer, Krauter, Krebsbach,
Lindaas, Mathern, Nelson, O'Connell, Robinson,
Seymour, Wardner, and Warner and Representatives
Bellew, Dosch, Ekstrom, Glassheim, Hawken, Kaldor,
Kempenich, Klein, Kreidt, Kroeber, Martinson, Meyer,
Monson, Nelson, Onstad, Pollert, Skarphol, Svedjan,
Vigesaa, Wald, Wieland, and Williams voted "aye."
No negative votes were cast.
The Budget Section recessed for lunch at
12:30 p.m. and reconvened at 1:00 p.m.
ECONOMIC OUTLOOK FOR THE UNITED
STATES AND NORTH DAKOTA
Chairman Holmberg called on Mr. Steven G.
Cochrane, Managing Director, Economy.com, to
present information regarding the economic
assumptions included in the executive budget revenue
forecast for the 2009-11 biennium; the North Dakota
economic outlook, including oil prices and agriculture
commodity prices; and the impact of the state's oil
industry on state revenues. A copy of the information
presented is on file in the Legislative Council office.
Mr. Cochrane said two-thirds of the nation is in a
recession that began in December 2007 and he has
seen no positive indicators nationally. He said North
Dakota's economy is still growing, but that growth has
slowed. He said North Dakota's housing price index
has shown slow, continued growth. He said the state
did not experience the large changes in housing
values that is causing economic concerns in the
majority of other states. He said his company's latest
analysis of gross domestic product indicates a longer
and more gradual recovery than previous analyses.
Mr. Cochrane said that while increases in wealth
generate more spending, it is increasing income that
is sustaining the North Dakota economy. He said
North Dakota's per capita income has increased over
20 percent in the last year. He said the global
recession will most likely result in decreases in
demand for North Dakota's manufactured goods and
commodities and will slow the state's income growth.
He said oil prices are expected to increase during
2009 and 2010, and stabilize at approximately $70 per
barrel for West Texas intermediate crude oil through
2013.
AGENCY REQUESTS AUTHORIZED BY
THE EMERGENCY COMMISSION
Chairman Holmberg directed the committee to
consider agency requests which have been
authorized by the Emergency Commission and
forwarded to the Budget Section pursuant to North
Dakota Century Code (NDCC) Sections 54-16-04,
54-16-04.1, and 54-16-04.2. The information relating
to the requests is on file in the Legislative Council
office.
It was moved by Representative Svedjan,
seconded by Senator Robinson, and carried on a
roll call vote that, pursuant to NDCC Sections
54-16-04, 54-16-04.1, and 54-16-04.2, the Budget
Section approve the following requests, which
have been approved by the Emergency
Commission:
• Racing Commission (Request #1687) - To
increase special funds spending authority
by $76,089 for Attorney General legal fees
($45,634), a contingency for future legal fees
($12,000), and for settlement fees awarded
by a district court in a civil case ($18,455).
• Public Service Commission (Request
#1688) - To increase the operating expenses
line item by $100,000 of special funds for
expert assistance and other costs
associated with analyzing and deciding
public utility rate cases for regulated
investor-owned utilities.
• Department of Commerce (Request #1689) -
To increase federal funds spending
authority by $19,600,000 for the operating
expenses line item ($1,960,000) and grants
line item ($17,640,000) to provide financial
assistance for the redevelopment of
abandoned and foreclosed homes to benefit
low-income citizens.
• Mill and Elevator (Request #1690) - To
increase spending authority by $4 million of
other funds for the operating line item
($4 million) for higher than anticipated
interest expenses related to market factors
requiring a larger than anticipated operating
line of credit with the Bank of North Dakota.
• State Department of Health (Request
#1692) - To increase the women, infants, and
Budget Section 4 December 3, 2008
children (WIC) line item by $2,750,000 to
accept federal funds from the United States
Department of Agriculture WIC program for
increased costs of the program.
• Veterans Home (Request #1694) - To
transfer $300,000 from the salaries and
wages line item to the operating expenses
line item to provide for increased operating
expenses related to contract nursing and
other operating costs, including utilities,
travel, and supplies.
• Secretary of State (Request #1696) - To
increase special funds spending authority
by $165,520 for the salaries and wages line
item ($67,757) and for the operating
expenses line item ($97,763) for expenses
associated with the agency's data
processing information technology project.
Senators Holmberg, Bowman, Christmann,
Grindberg, Kilzer, Krebsbach, Lindaas, Mathern,
Nelson, O'Connell, Robinson, Seymour, Wardner, and
Warner and Representatives Boucher, Dosch,
Ekstrom, Glassheim, Hawken, Kaldor, Kempenich,
Klein, Kreidt, Kroeber, Martinson, Meyer, Monson,
Nelson, Onstad, Pollert, Skarphol, Svedjan, Vigesaa,
Wald, and Wieland voted "aye." No negative votes
were cast.
2009-11 EXECUTIVE BUDGET
RECOMMENDATIONS
Chairman Holmberg called on Ms. Sheila
Peterson, Director, Fiscal Management Division,
Office of Management and Budget, to present
information regarding the 2009-11 executive budget.
She directed the Budget Section members to the
detailed budget books provided to legislators. She
reported on the 2009-11 executive budget
recommendations for information technology, onetime
budget investments, state employee
compensation and benefits, capital projects, and
bonding for capital projects. She said the budget
includes funding to continue to pay the full cost of
health insurance premiums for state employees. She
said the budgeted cost for health insurance is $826
per month per employee, a 25.5 percent increase
compared to the 2007-09 biennium rate of $658. She
said the recommended state employee compensation
package provides a 5 percent average salary increase
with a $100 per month minimum, effective July 1,
2009, and a 5 percent average salary increase with a
$100 per month minimum, effective July 1, 2010. She
said the salary increases are to be based on merit and
equity and are not to be given across the board. She
said the compensation package also includes
$23 million, of which $13 million is from the general
fund, to address salary equity issues for certain
agencies. She said agencies will have flexibility to
use salary equity funding to address salary issues
relating to the competitive employment market, salary
issues in targeted occupations, and internal agency
and interagency salary equity issues.
Ms. Peterson said the executive recommendation
for capital projects totals $380.5 million, of which
$127.8 million is from the general fund. She said the
largest capital project is the $67 million prison
expansion project for the Department of Corrections
and Rehabilitation.
Ms. Peterson said none of the capital projects
recommended in the 2009-11 biennium require
bonding. Based on statutory bond payment
guidelines, the state could issue bonds of up to
$60 million for the 2009-11 biennium and still be within
statutory guidelines.
Ms. Peterson said the executive recommendation
includes $357.2 million in one-time funding
investments. She said the executive recommendation
also includes information technology projects that
were ranked by the Statewide Information Technology
Advisory Committee. She said information technology
projects to be paid from the general fund total
$12.5 million and are included as one-time
investments. A copy of the reports is on file in the
Legislative Council office.
Mr. Joe Morrissette, Office of Management and
Budget, presented information on the executive
budget recommendation for the Department of Public
Instruction. He said the North Dakota Commission on
Education Improvement recommends formula
changes to provide funding for regional education
associations, assessments, career advisors, tutors, a
state prekindergarten program, and one extra day in
the school calendar. He said the recommendation of
$837.1 million for state school aid is an increase of
$111 million or 15.3 percent from the 2007-09
biennium. He said the recommendation also includes
$38.5 million for transportation payments,
$15.5 million for special education contracts, and
$2.3 million for a new mentoring program to provide
training and support for new teachers.
Representative Skarphol asked the Legislative
Council staff to provide information on the estimated
cost to continue the recommended state aid to
schools payment level for the 2011-13 biennium.
Mr. Morrissette discussed the executive budget
recommendation for the Department of Career and
Technical Education. He said the recommendation
provides for $2 million, an increase of $800,000, to
continue the virtual area career and technical
education center initiative authorized by the 2007
Legislative Assembly. He said the recommendation
provides $1.6 million to increase career and technical
education program reimbursement rates and equalize
reimbursement rates among various programs.
Mr. Morrissette discussed the executive budget
recommendation for the Department of Corrections
and Rehabilitation. He said the recommendation
provides $5.6 million to maintain existing programs
and services at contract rates and population levels
anticipated for the 2009-11 biennium. He said the
recommendation provides an additional 32 FTE
Budget Section 5 December 3, 2008
positions, including 21 FTE positions that are currently
temporary positions and 11 new FTE positions. He
said the 2007 Legislative Assembly appropriated
$41 million for the proposed construction and
renovation project at the State Penitentiary and with
interest the funds available are anticipated to total
$44.5 million. He said the recommendation provides
an additional $22.5 million from the general fund for a
total project cost of $67 million.
Mr. Morrissette discussed the executive budget
recommendation for the State Historical Society. He
said the recommendation includes $30 million, of
which $18 million is from the general fund, for
construction of an addition to the Heritage Center.
Mr. Morrissette discussed the executive budget
recommendation for the Department of
Transportation. He said the recommendation includes
$7.5 million to replace the department's drivers
records computer system and a one-time $120 million
transfer from the general fund to the highway tax
distribution fund for infrastructure maintenance, repair,
and improvement projects for the state and political
subdivisions.
Senator O'Connell asked the Office of
Management and Budget to provide information
comparing the highway tax distribution fund
allocations under current law to the recommended
allocations. Mr. Morrissette said he would provide the
information.
Ms. Sandy Deis, Office of Management and
Budget, presented information on the executive
budget recommendation for the North Dakota
University System. She said the recommendation
includes $614.2 million from the general fund, which is
an increase of $145.6 million from the 2007-09
biennium.
Ms. Deis said the recommendation provides:
• $24 million for one-time investments such as
emergency preparedness, security, and
maintenance and repairs of buildings;
• $50 million for capital projects and the
development of campus master plans;
• $49 million for campus parity distributions;
• $10 million for equity payments;
• $40 million for student financial assistance
grants from the general fund, an increase of
$34 million;
• $2 million for the North Dakota Scholars
program;
• $600,000 for the University of North Dakota
School of Medicine and Health Sciences for a
new scholarship program to encourage
students to pursue family medicine careers in
rural areas;
• $1.335 million for security staff and coordinators
to develop a statewide plan for emergency
preparedness and campus security;
• $1.275 million to stabilize the operations of the
Bismarck and Minot Centers for Family
Medicine;
• $400,000 for the Space Grant Consortium; and
• $800,000 of additional general fund support for
the Experimental Program to Stimulate
Competitive Research.
Ms. Lori Laschkewitsch, Office of Management and
Budget, presented information on the executive
budget recommendation for the State Department of
Health. She said the recommendation includes
$321,910, of which $215,680 is from the general fund,
and two FTE positions to conduct life safety
inspections for construction and renovation projects of
basic care and long-term care facilities. She said the
recommendation increases funding for the medical
personnel loan program by $195,000 and the dental
loan repayment program by $200,000. She said the
recommendation also provides a special fund
appropriation of $18.6 million for the Comprehensive
Tobacco Control Advisory Committee.
Ms. Laschkewitsch presented information on the
executive budget recommendation for the Veterans
Home. She said the recommendation includes a
2007-09 supplemental appropriation to increase
funding for the completion of the new Veterans Home,
including furniture, fixtures, and equipment, by
$13.3 million, of which $12 million is from the general
fund. She said the recommendation includes
$110,088 in temporary salaries for a project manager
to oversee construction of the new facility, provides
$133,600 for e-charting software, and authorizes
14.8 additional FTE positions for the new building.
Ms. Laschkewitsch presented information on the
executive budget recommendation for the Department
of Human Services. She said the recommendation
includes $40.1 million, of which $14.8 million is from
the general fund, to rebase payment rates for medical
assistance program providers. She said the
recommendation also increases the eligibility income
limits for the state children's health insurance program
at a cost of $1.1 million from the general fund,
provides $600,000 from the general fund to establish
an aging and disability resource center as a single
point of entry for long-term care services for the
elderly and disabled, and enhances the funding to
senior services providers by $900,000 to assist with
the costs of providing meals to the elderly.
Ms. Tammy Dolan, Office of Management and
Budget, presented information on the executive
budget recommendation for the Adjutant General.
She said the recommendation expands the veterans'
bonus program by $500,000 from the general fund to
address multiple deployments. She said the
recommendation also includes a $3.6 million
investment in State Radio, including $2.1 million from
the general fund, to develop a statewide seamless
base map; $1 million from the general fund to
enhance computer-aided dispatch; and $500,000 to
lease or purchase State Radio tower space in
selected areas of the state where radio reception is
not adequate.
Ms. Dolan presented information on the executive
budget recommendation for the Agricultural
Budget Section 6 December 3, 2008
Experiment Station and the Extension Service. She
said the recommendation includes $2.7 million from
the general fund and seven FTE positions to provide
for crop disease management; extension specialist
operating support; utilities for the new greenhouse; an
increase for extraordinary repairs; and pulse, oilseed,
and wheat quality and product evaluation. She said
the recommendation includes one-time funding from
the general fund for capital projects, including
$11.4 million to complete the greenhouse facility,
$2.6 million to complete construction of the beef
research facility, and $2.9 million for office building
additions and renovation projects at the North Central,
Williston, Langdon, and Dickinson Research Centers.
Ms. Dolan presented information on the executive
budget recommendation for the State Water
Commission. She said the recommendation includes
two FTE positions--one hydrologist to address the
increasing volume of water permits and an engineer
technician to operate the Northwest Area Water
Supply pipeline--and $433,990, of which $373,213 is
from the general fund, to address salary equity issues.
SPECIFIC EXEMPT
COMMODITIES AND SERVICES
Chairman Holmberg called on Ms. Sherry Neas,
State Procurement Manager, Office of Management
and Budget, to report on the specified commodities
and services exempted from the procurement
requirements of NDCC Chapter 54-44.4. She said the
Office of Management and Budget has exempted few
commodities and services from the state procurement
system. She said the administrative rules related to
state procurement--North Dakota Administrative Code
Article 4-12--that became effective in August 2004
identify commodities and services that are not
procurements, such as professional memberships and
grants, and identifies exemptions to the rules. She
said the list of exemptions also identifies commodities
and services that are subject to other statutes for the
procurement or selection process, such as
appointments of a special or an assistant attorney
general, public improvements, concessions, and
engineers. A copy of the information presented is on
file in the Legislative Council office.
DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
Chairman Holmberg called on Ms. Jennifer
Witham, Director, Information Technology Services,
Department of Human Services, to present
information regarding the status of the Medicaid
management information system project pursuant to
Section 3 of 2007 Senate Bill No. 2024. She said in
November 2008, the department agreed to a request
by ACS State Healthcare, LLC, for a 10-month delay
to the project schedule with the understanding that the
state will not be responsible for additional costs
resulting from the delay. She provided the following
project funding summary:
Description Budget
Spent
Through
October 2008 Remaining
General fund $3,643,133 $1,551,169 $2,091,964
Federal funds 55,218,418 19,720,674 35,497,744
Other funds 3,667,820 1,007,597 2,660,223
Total project $62,529,371 $22,279,440 $40,249,931
A copy of the report is on file in the Legislative
Council office.
VETERANS HOME PROJECT
Chairman Holmberg called on Mr. Mark B.
Johnson, Administrator, Veterans Home, to present
information regarding the status of the Veterans Home
construction project pursuant to Section 4 of 2007
Senate Bill No. 2418. He said construction of the new
Veterans Home was approved by the 2007 Legislative
Assembly with an appropriation of $21.1 million of
state and federal funds. He said subsequent to
legislative approval, the scope of the project was
changed to meet federal Department of Veterans
Affairs guidelines. He said the change increased the
size of the facility by 20,000 square feet and resulted
in increased construction costs. He said the Veterans
Home requested and received Emergency
Commission and Budget Section approval to increase
the project to $25.6 million in March 2008. He said
bids for the Veterans Home construction project were
received in September 2008 and totaled $30.8 million.
He said the Veterans Home has rejected all of the
bids and is rebidding the project. He said the new
bids will be opened January 27, 2009. He said a
separate appropriation bill totaling $13.3 million, of
which $12 million is from the general fund, will be
introduced to the 2009 Legislative Assembly to
increase funding for completion of the new Veterans
Home and that the funding must be approved by both
the House of Representatives and the Senate by
March 1, 2009, to qualify for federal Department of
Veterans Affairs funds.
INDUSTRIAL COMMISSION
Chairman Holmberg called on Mr. Lynn Helms,
Director, Department of Mineral Resources, Industrial
Commission, to present information regarding
revenues and expenditures of the abandoned oil and
gas well plugging and site reclamation fund; the
geophysical, geothermal, subsurface minerals, and
coal exploration fund; and the geologic data
preservation fund to date for the biennium beginning
July 1, 2007, and ending June 30, 2009, pursuant to
Section 7 of 2007 House Bill No. 1060. A copy of the
report is on file in the Legislative Council office.
Mr. Helms presented revenue and balance
information for the abandoned oil and gas well
plugging and site reclamation fund. He said revenue
deposited in the fund for the 2007-09 biennium
through October 2008 was $239,625, $134,625 more
than the anticipated revenue of $105,000. He said the
fund balance was $458,350 on October 31, 2008. He
Budget Section 7 December 3, 2008
said the increased revenue is due to higher than
anticipated drilling activity. He said the fund's
outstanding liabilities for the plugging and reclamation
of four oil and gas wells in Grenora Field total
$250,000. He said possible liabilities include the
plugging and reclaiming of three oil and gas wells and
one saltwater disposal well in Tioga Field, the cost of
which could total an additional $250,000. He said it is
likely those wells will be transferred to a new operator
interested in returning them to production.
Senator Krauter asked for information on the status
of gas production in the state. Mr. Helms said he
would provide the information.
Mr. Helms presented revenue and balance
information for the geophysical, geothermal,
subsurface minerals, and coal exploration fund. He
said revenue for the 2007-09 biennium through
October 2008 totaled $11,680. He said the fund
balance on October 31, 2008, was $12,565. He said
the fund has no outstanding liabilities. He said the
maximum potential liability, calculated based on
percentages and historical costs, would be $498,500
extended over a long period of time.
Mr. Helms presented revenue and balance
information for the geologic data preservation fund.
He said there has been no activity in the fund and the
fund balance is zero as of October 31, 2008. He said
federal revenue of $100,000 was anticipated, but the
funds were never appropriated by Congress. He said
the fund will focus on potential private sector
contributions and on developing a subscription service
website where oil and gas companies can pay to
access information.
GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT
Chairman Holmberg called on Mr. Roger Rostvet,
Deputy Director, Game and Fish Department, to
present information regarding a report on the
recruitment and retention of hunters in North Dakota
pursuant to Section 7 of 2007 Senate Bill No. 2017.
He said the department contracted for the study that
included telephone surveys of North Dakota residents
18 years of age and older and a separate children's
survey. He said the study confirmed youth education
and recruitment efforts are working and North Dakota
is second only to Montana for active participation in
hunting activity. He said data sources examined by
researchers indicated that hunting participation in
North Dakota has increased, including a substantial
increase in out-of-state hunters. He said researchers
concluded that women should not be the highest
priority for hunting recruitment as they generally
showed less interest in hunting and were less
responsive to various motivators. He said copies of
the full report are available from the department. A
copy of the report is on file in the Legislative Council
office.
COMMITTEE DISCUSSION AND
STAFF DIRECTIVES
It was moved by Senator Robinson, seconded
by Senator Nelson, and carried on a voice vote
that the Budget Section meeting be adjourned
subject to the call of the chair.
Chairman Holmberg adjourned the meeting at
4:45 p.m.
___________________________________________
Sheila M. Sandness
Fiscal Analyst
___________________________________________
Allen H. Knudson
Legislative Budget Analyst and Auditor
ATTACH:1
Ideas for your College of Education
AACTE Weekly News Briefs | December 16, 2008___________
. . . delivered to your inbox so you can enjoy up-to-date news on Colleges of Education, Teaching and the Classroom, Campaigns, Legislation, STEM Teacher Issues, International Teacher Issues, Grants, and Upcoming Events. Please click on linked headlines for full story.
AACTE ANNOUNCEMENTS
AACTE 61st ANNUAL MEETING & EXHIBITS
February 6 - 9, 2009
Hyatt Regency Chicago - Virtual Tour
Chicago, IL
REGISTER NOW!
Click here for more information on the 61st Annual Meeting & Exhibits as well as direct links for registration, hotel reservations, and answers to frequently asked questions.
AACTE Announces 2009 Annual Meeting Planner
Did you know that you can search an online database for ALL confirmed sessions as well as create your own customized itinerary for AACTE’s 61st Annual Meeting & Exhibits? You can do all that and more by using AACTE's exclusive Online Itinerary Planner!
NATIONAL NEWS
Education Secretary Nominee Will Reach Out to Unions, School Reform Groups
From the Washington Post
In seven years as chief executive officer of the Chicago school system, Arne Duncan earned a reputation as a leader who pushed for strong measures to improve schools but also reached out to the teachers union and the community. As President-elect Barack Obama's pick to be become the nation's next education secretary, he'll draw on that background to try and bridge the deep divides among education advocates, teachers unions and civil rights groups over how to fix America's schools.
How to Go Forward With 'No Child Left Behind'
From the Washington Post
President-elect Barack Obama has vowed to "fix the failures" of the No Child Left Behind law, which rates schools based on student performance on annual math and reading tests. With Congress poised to begin the debate anew, a student, a PTA president, a charter school advocate, a teachers union leader and a superintendent offer ideas about how to improve the law.
The Propaganda of International Comparisons
From Inside Higher Ed
The latest rhetorical trope in the bad news presentation of U.S. higher education is to say — even when home front improvements are acknowledged — “Wait a minute! But other countries are doing better!” and rush out a litter of population ratios from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) that show the U.S. has “fallen” from 2nd to 9th or 3rd to 15th place in whatever indicator of access, participation and attainment is at issue.
Obama education advisor calls for more teacher collaboration
From Education Daily *login required*
American teachers spend an average of 400 more hours each year in the classroom with students than their counterparts in Japan, Singapore, and other member countries of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, yet American students' academic achievement lags behind their peers internationally. The difference is what teachers in these foreign nations do with their time out of the classroom, said Linda Darling-Hammond, speaking to teachers and school administrators at the National Staff Development Council Annual Conference on Dec. 8.
Tech trends every school leader should know
From eSchoolnews
A new generation of students with vastly different learning needs is redefining expectations for classroom instruction, and a growing emphasis on school accountability is changing the role of the school district IT leader. William Rust, research director for the IT research and consulting firm Gartner identified four key trends that school district chief technology officers (CTOs) should be aware of: accountability, the changing nature of learners, the accessibility of technology, and the "internal and external demands" that are now placed on ed-tech executives.
Teach For America Said Boon to D.C.
From Education Week
Teach For America’s expansion into preschool is having positive effects so far, at least in the District of Columbia, a study suggests. The findings are “remarkable,” writes Nicholas Zill, the author of the paper, who recently retired from his post as a vice president of the Rockville, Md.-based research organization.
Lobbying for Darling-Hammond
From Politico
The remaining Cabinet posts are all subject to quiet, intense lobbying, and a source sends over a letter sent by 40 deans of education schools backing Linda Darling-Hammond, a Stanford professor and head of Obama's education transition team, as secretary of education. To read the full letter, click on “Continue reading Lobbying for Darling-Hammond.”
NEWS FROM AROUND THE COUNTRY
New Annual Georgia Teacher Certification Test Results Reports Available Online for Educator Preparation Programs
From GaPSC and Pearson
Government and independent research supports that preparing, recruiting and retaining great teachers is key to student academic success, and no state has worked harder than Georgia to ensure that its classrooms are led by qualified educators. To support this goal, the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) and Pearson announced that state educator preparation programs now have secure online access to annual Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators® (GACE®) test result reports for their program.
Liberty-YSU partnership to benefit students
From Vindy.com
Liberty Local Schools and Youngstown State University have formed a partnership to benefit students on the high school and collegiate levels. The partnership, known as a Professional Development School, is designed to give future teachers at YSU the classroom experience they need and Liberty students the college credit they want.
Teacher training program graduates to high school
The University of Chicago Chronicle
Responding to a national shortage of high school mathematics and science teachers, the Urban Education Institute will expand its teacher preparation program in 2009 to ready secondary math and biology teachers for urban classrooms.
KUPDS Alliance used to recruit high-quality teachers to USD 500
From the Kansas City Kansan
Founded in 1991, the KUPDS is a partnership between the University Of Kansas School Of Education and the seven public schools in three near-by districts to provide collaborative research, training and professional development opportunities for public school teachers, and university faculty and teacher education students with the ultimate goal of improving public school education for children.
Professionals targeted for teacher recruitment
From the Nashville Business Journal
If a new teacher recruitment program in Nashville’s troubled public schools comes off as planned, dozens of “career changers” will roll into the city’s hard-to-staff schools next year. The Nashville Teaching Fellows, a project co-sponsored by Metro Nashville Public Schools and a New York-based nonprofit, is looking to find 75 to 100 new teachers for the 2009-10 school year.
Other Announcements
ACE, VA to Convene Regional Meetings on New GI Bill Implementation
The American Council on Education, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, will host three regional meetings to educate campus leaders about provisions of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 and solicit input on the implementation of payment systems.
These meetings are open to representatives of the higher education community on a first-come, first-served basis at the following locations:
January 6, 2009: Los Angeles, California
January 9, 2009: Washington, D.C.
January 14, 2009: Chicago, Illinois
· Further information and online registration is available.
Alyssa J. Mangino
Communications Manager
AACTE
1307 New York Ave., NW Suite 300
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 478-4596 -Direct
(202) 457-8095 -Fax
amangino@aacte.org
. . . delivered to your inbox so you can enjoy up-to-date news on Colleges of Education, Teaching and the Classroom, Campaigns, Legislation, STEM Teacher Issues, International Teacher Issues, Grants, and Upcoming Events. Please click on linked headlines for full story.
AACTE ANNOUNCEMENTS
AACTE 61st ANNUAL MEETING & EXHIBITS
February 6 - 9, 2009
Hyatt Regency Chicago - Virtual Tour
Chicago, IL
REGISTER NOW!
Click here for more information on the 61st Annual Meeting & Exhibits as well as direct links for registration, hotel reservations, and answers to frequently asked questions.
AACTE Announces 2009 Annual Meeting Planner
Did you know that you can search an online database for ALL confirmed sessions as well as create your own customized itinerary for AACTE’s 61st Annual Meeting & Exhibits? You can do all that and more by using AACTE's exclusive Online Itinerary Planner!
NATIONAL NEWS
Education Secretary Nominee Will Reach Out to Unions, School Reform Groups
From the Washington Post
In seven years as chief executive officer of the Chicago school system, Arne Duncan earned a reputation as a leader who pushed for strong measures to improve schools but also reached out to the teachers union and the community. As President-elect Barack Obama's pick to be become the nation's next education secretary, he'll draw on that background to try and bridge the deep divides among education advocates, teachers unions and civil rights groups over how to fix America's schools.
How to Go Forward With 'No Child Left Behind'
From the Washington Post
President-elect Barack Obama has vowed to "fix the failures" of the No Child Left Behind law, which rates schools based on student performance on annual math and reading tests. With Congress poised to begin the debate anew, a student, a PTA president, a charter school advocate, a teachers union leader and a superintendent offer ideas about how to improve the law.
The Propaganda of International Comparisons
From Inside Higher Ed
The latest rhetorical trope in the bad news presentation of U.S. higher education is to say — even when home front improvements are acknowledged — “Wait a minute! But other countries are doing better!” and rush out a litter of population ratios from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) that show the U.S. has “fallen” from 2nd to 9th or 3rd to 15th place in whatever indicator of access, participation and attainment is at issue.
Obama education advisor calls for more teacher collaboration
From Education Daily *login required*
American teachers spend an average of 400 more hours each year in the classroom with students than their counterparts in Japan, Singapore, and other member countries of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, yet American students' academic achievement lags behind their peers internationally. The difference is what teachers in these foreign nations do with their time out of the classroom, said Linda Darling-Hammond, speaking to teachers and school administrators at the National Staff Development Council Annual Conference on Dec. 8.
Tech trends every school leader should know
From eSchoolnews
A new generation of students with vastly different learning needs is redefining expectations for classroom instruction, and a growing emphasis on school accountability is changing the role of the school district IT leader. William Rust, research director for the IT research and consulting firm Gartner identified four key trends that school district chief technology officers (CTOs) should be aware of: accountability, the changing nature of learners, the accessibility of technology, and the "internal and external demands" that are now placed on ed-tech executives.
Teach For America Said Boon to D.C.
From Education Week
Teach For America’s expansion into preschool is having positive effects so far, at least in the District of Columbia, a study suggests. The findings are “remarkable,” writes Nicholas Zill, the author of the paper, who recently retired from his post as a vice president of the Rockville, Md.-based research organization.
Lobbying for Darling-Hammond
From Politico
The remaining Cabinet posts are all subject to quiet, intense lobbying, and a source sends over a letter sent by 40 deans of education schools backing Linda Darling-Hammond, a Stanford professor and head of Obama's education transition team, as secretary of education. To read the full letter, click on “Continue reading Lobbying for Darling-Hammond.”
NEWS FROM AROUND THE COUNTRY
New Annual Georgia Teacher Certification Test Results Reports Available Online for Educator Preparation Programs
From GaPSC and Pearson
Government and independent research supports that preparing, recruiting and retaining great teachers is key to student academic success, and no state has worked harder than Georgia to ensure that its classrooms are led by qualified educators. To support this goal, the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) and Pearson announced that state educator preparation programs now have secure online access to annual Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators® (GACE®) test result reports for their program.
Liberty-YSU partnership to benefit students
From Vindy.com
Liberty Local Schools and Youngstown State University have formed a partnership to benefit students on the high school and collegiate levels. The partnership, known as a Professional Development School, is designed to give future teachers at YSU the classroom experience they need and Liberty students the college credit they want.
Teacher training program graduates to high school
The University of Chicago Chronicle
Responding to a national shortage of high school mathematics and science teachers, the Urban Education Institute will expand its teacher preparation program in 2009 to ready secondary math and biology teachers for urban classrooms.
KUPDS Alliance used to recruit high-quality teachers to USD 500
From the Kansas City Kansan
Founded in 1991, the KUPDS is a partnership between the University Of Kansas School Of Education and the seven public schools in three near-by districts to provide collaborative research, training and professional development opportunities for public school teachers, and university faculty and teacher education students with the ultimate goal of improving public school education for children.
Professionals targeted for teacher recruitment
From the Nashville Business Journal
If a new teacher recruitment program in Nashville’s troubled public schools comes off as planned, dozens of “career changers” will roll into the city’s hard-to-staff schools next year. The Nashville Teaching Fellows, a project co-sponsored by Metro Nashville Public Schools and a New York-based nonprofit, is looking to find 75 to 100 new teachers for the 2009-10 school year.
Other Announcements
ACE, VA to Convene Regional Meetings on New GI Bill Implementation
The American Council on Education, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, will host three regional meetings to educate campus leaders about provisions of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 and solicit input on the implementation of payment systems.
These meetings are open to representatives of the higher education community on a first-come, first-served basis at the following locations:
January 6, 2009: Los Angeles, California
January 9, 2009: Washington, D.C.
January 14, 2009: Chicago, Illinois
· Further information and online registration is available.
Alyssa J. Mangino
Communications Manager
AACTE
1307 New York Ave., NW Suite 300
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 478-4596 -Direct
(202) 457-8095 -Fax
amangino@aacte.org
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