Nuts & Bolts: Higher education in 2025, International faculty gathering, teaching evaluations and MTA benefits
11/25/2024
FSU Calendar November 25th to November 27th
Tuesday, November 26th 3:30 - 5:00
The Executive Committee is meeting on Tuesday, November 26th, 3:30-5 . This is a zoom meeting. (contact FSU or Caroline Coscia for Zoom information).
Dear Members,
The red line is back with no speed restrictions, and this is a short teaching week.
Higher Education in 2025
We’ve heard your concerns about changes that may occur with the new administration in Washington DC. Our parent unions, NEA and MTA, are closely monitoring any programs or policy changes that may impact public higher education including our students and our departments. We will share information when we know more specifics.
Each of us selected a discipline because it moved us, it excited us, and we wanted to dedicate ourselves to it. As we forge into uncertain times, we must remain united to ensure all our colleagues’ areas of expertise are valued equally. It is only standing together can we keep public higher education a place for and one that benefits all.
Save the Date: International Faculty Gathering, December 3rd 3:30 to 5:00PM
As the Fall semester draws to a close the FSU invites all international faculty to meet, share questions and advice, and to forge solidarity.
Join us in person in the Campus Center 4th Floor Room 4201 or join us via zoom (contact FSU or Caroline Coscia for Zoom information).
University Space Policy
The FSU, CSU, PSU and GEO Union leaders met in coalition with Administration Wednesday, November 20th to reiterate concerns about the Space Use policy.
Teaching Evaluations
Departments decide how to evaluate teaching, and multiple methods are encouraged. From Article 33.4 of the contract: “Each department, program or other analogous unit shall develop or adopt one or several modes appropriate to the process of evaluating teaching in that unit, as well as procedures for the administration of student evaluations of teaching. Over time, the annual evaluations of teaching should attempt to capture the total contribution of the candidate to the instructional mission, both inside and/or outside the classroom, through multiple modes of evaluation, not just student evaluations. For faculty involved in graduate education, the annual evaluation should address their effectiveness in advising and mentoring graduate students.” Don’t like the way you are being evaluated for teaching? Discuss this in your department.
Happy 179th Birthday MTA!
The MTA was formed on November 24, 1845, when 85 educators met in Worcester. Since educators continue to unite in fighting for better schools and programming.
MTA benefits: MTA Travel Savings Center
You might be thinking of a January getaway. Check out the MTA Travel Savings Center.
We wish you a restful, safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving break with your family and friends.
Sincerely,
Caroline Coscia
FSU President
Senior Lecturer II
Political Science Department