|
OSSTF District 11- Thames Valley
|
District 11 Office |
Education Matters Online
News
Volume 2, Issue 3: March 3, 2004
Reflections of a (Re)tiring PresidentBy Don Rowdon |
|
I have also been fortunate in finding opportunities for Professional Growth through leadership opportunities in Athletics and in Federation work. Many of our younger members will be faced with deciding what career path is best for them. Our system needs good administrators, a path many will consider and pursue. This was not for me but I am thankful many of my colleagues took this route.
There are other paths that also offer growth and opportunity. If you love the "kids" but want other challenges as well, I encourage you to become active in the Federation. There are different challenges and numerous opportunities for leadership development within District 11, for members who want to continue to teach. In the not too distant future, many of the positions on Bargaining Unit Executives, the District Executive, and Branch Executives will be open for nominations. These positions require minimal experience but offer an excellent introduction to the functioning of your union and an opportunity for future career advancement.
On reflection, the one regret I have is that I didn’t get involved sooner. My reason (excuse) was that I would have to give up coaching in order to serve the Federation. To some degree that was true. As President, I envisioned that I could alter the timing and structure of OSSTF meetings to be more welcoming and accommodating to members involved in extra-curricular activities. To this end I have failed. That being said, I honestly believe that members too busy to take Federation positions are the very ones we need to serve the District. It can be done and I encourage such members to find a way. The Federation needs you and in return you will find a whole new world of challenges and opportunities.
Give it some thought and don’t hesitate to enquire about the opportunities available and the expectations and commitments that go with them. OSSTF involvement is a win win situation!
