Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, March 27, 1990 TAG: 9003270324
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: B2 EDITION: EVENING
SOURCE: MIKE HUDSON STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
At least 1,600 delegates from across the state are expected. They make the policies of the 48,000-member teachers' organization.
VEA officials say issues that may come up during the conference include fingerprinting of teachers, child labor laws, planning time for elementary teachers, class size and retirement legislation.
VEA President Madeline Wade and Vice President Ann Duncan said they don't foresee many hot debates.
But you never know, Duncan said. "Some years you think there's going to be no controversy. Then all of sudden things get thrown left and right. I'm always surprised."
Duncan, a Bedford County librarian and guidance counselor, said the fingerprinting issue may spark some discussion.
It's been proposed that the state require all newly hired teachers to be fingerprinted, to check for criminal records including child abuse.
Although some have philosophical objections it appears most delegates are leaning toward the idea, Duncan said. "But you never know what's going to happen once it hits the floor."
Another question that may be debated is whether students should get more choice in where they attend public schools by being allowed to jump district lines. The National Education Association has already said such choice programs don't do much to improve education, Duncan said.
Wade will hold a news conference at 3 p.m. Thursday.
The business sessions will start at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 9:30 a.m. Friday and 10 a.m. Saturday.
Gov. Douglas Wilder is scheduled to address the delegates at 10 a.m. Friday.
by CNB