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Date: 10/11/2005 7:11:00 PM
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Author:
Melissa
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Subject:Union
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While shopping just this past week I picked up a book about how woman can succeed in a male dominated world. As I flipped through the book I came across a chapter about woman in what the author called "Femal Ghettos" which she later described as work places where most if not all of the employees were woman and the wages, expectations and respect were disarmingly low. Among the occupations the author described were elemenary and preschool teachers and child care providers. Most child care teachers make less then the person who takes your order at McDonald's and probably with far less benefits. Child Care is a multi-million dollar buisness and even more so for the big chains like Godard, Just Children and Kindercare, so why doesn't that money funnel down to us, the employees and providers? Why do we suffer with little more then minimum wage and poor, if any, benefits? Then on top of that, forced to purchase supplies with our own money because such purchases usually "just aren't in the budget".
It's time to stand up for ourselves and defend the profession we love from money-hungry buisness owners and finally gain the respect and loyalties we deserve. Why don't child care workers have a union yet? Isn't it way over due?
I don't know about the rest of you out there, but I'm ready for a change. I'm tired of being looked at as just a babysitter (14 year old baby sitters probably make more then us). We are so much more for the children we care for and the families that trust us to raise their children while they're away. We're teachers, nurses, artists, psycologists, comedians, actresses, janitors, chefs, a shoulder to cry on, a hand to hold, a warm hug and so much more on a daily basis. We should be getting the benefits we deserve for the amazing jobs we do everyday.
We need to do something.
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Date: 10/19/2005 1:12:00 PM
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Author:
Juanita
(vstchris@yahoo.com)
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Subject:Union
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I'm interested. I live in Las Vegas, NV. I'll be checking my email to here about any information. I'm also going to check out the NY connection. Maybe I can get something stirred up here.
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Date: 10/29/2005 11:27:00 PM
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Author:
Jessica Nash
(jesslynne523@netzero.com)
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Subject:Where does Daycare bucks go? Not to the workers.
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Hello, I am a former child care worker who left the business because of low wages and stress that left me unhealthy--physically, emotionally and mentally. Although I love children, my true passion is writing. I am researching child care workers currently, trying to understand why they are underpaid, unrespected and overworked. Your message voiced information and opinions that are difficult to locate: that the owners and corporations of the child care industry are exploiting us, pocketing hefty profits. So far, no organization web page I've encountered have dared to assert this claim. If you have any clue where I can discover hard facts about why educated, multi-skilled child care workers are underpaid, and where does daycare bucks go, please let me know. Any books, websites, or personal opinions are greatly appreciated.
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Date: 2/1/2006 1:54:00 PM
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Author:
LINDA
(VARGASL8@AOL.COM)
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Subject:SEATTLE
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Please move to West Seattle!!!!!! We are in dire need of more providers, my phone is ringing off the hook each day. My mom and many friends also have home daycares and we are swamped. The rates are currently at around$60. per day for an infant then on down to 45.00 per day for preschoolers. Our assistants earn $10.00 per hour with no benefits and at the centers many of them earn up to 15.00 per hour. The centers are full as well because we cannot handle the demand for home childcare since we can only be licensed for 12 children in each home! This is my 21st year in daycare and I would love to retire but I feel the need is so great. My moms best friend did daycare in her home for 25 years and retired a couple years ago a millionaire!!! So it can be done! Linda
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Date: 10/28/2006 9:31:00 PM
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Author:
Donna
(dauna@aol.com)
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Subject:Union
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Melissa
I'm from Washington State we are the second state to form a child care union the first was Illinois. The SEIU child care union in Washington just finished bargaining with the state for higher subsidy rates, health care and more. As soon as we have a decision from the arbitrator about the subsidy rate we will put this out to a vote of our members.
What state are you in? Call or email me and I can tell you where to get started.
Donna M Horne,President
Washington State Family Child Care Association
1909 94th Dr Se
Everett,Wa 98205
425-334-1183 or 1-888-866-2555
dauna@aol.com
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Date: 10/31/2006 4:26:00 PM
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Author:
Carrie McIntosh
(carrie@weeblessings.net)
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Subject:I own my own daycare
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For the record, this money hungry business owner makes less than 25k per year. And, hour for hour my workers make more than me.
So, when I tell someone that an extra set of scissors or such jsut isn't in the budget - it isn't. Any extra expenses, including raises have to come from somewhere.
Like my daddy used to say "That ain't a money tree in the backyard."
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Date: 11/3/2006 3:54:00 PM
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Author:
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Subject:so, does this mean you are actually subs...
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so, does this mean you are actually subsidizing some of the child care costs of the parents ???? if you are the business owner, you charge what your expenses are. you bet Kindercare and the like owners/directors aren't earning pennies.
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Date: 10/2/2007 1:45:00 PM
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Author:
BobbiAnn
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Subject:why do we accept low paychecks?!
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I hear women tell me 'it is a mission'. the low paycheck keeps child care costs low to help moms work. OK. but now we have a ton of women in the workforce, cost of everything has gone up making it nearly impossible for a mom to stay home. and my gosh, if you are a single woman how can you afford to live by yourself unless you have a degree and a great job? maybe if the moms revolt, just stay home and be mommies. Many just refuse to fall into the 'work makes me a better person' trap. if the majority of moms stayed home (or just worked part-time), they can band together and complain about the cost of stuff today. not every home is a two-person wage earning home. stuff needs to be based on a single wage paycheck. maybe change a world view. oh, the dreams. back to the child care issue, thank you mission driven workers for continuing to devalue the child care industry, don't worry about losing your jobs to new immigrants. they won't take such low pay. and those child care corporations, they are enjoying their dividend checks at the beach resort.
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Date: 10/12/2005 11:20:00 AM
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Author:
Linda
(t0good@webtv.net)
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Subject:VOICE
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I don't know where you're located, but I'm in NYS. Just last year, local childcare providers organized and now a year old, have over 500 members in the area. It's called VOICE - which stands for The Voice of Organized Independent Childcare Educators. It's a movement to change the childcare community. Providers are organizing to tackle issues that are important to the providers, including regulations, obtaining cheep insurance and other benefits.
You can get more info directly from them at 1-800-342-4146X1356 or visit the website at www.voicecsea.org
Hope that helps!
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Date: 10/12/2005 1:58:00 PM
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Author:
terri
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Subject:thank goodness somebody else sees the truth!
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I was thrilled to read the first post because I feel exactly the same way. I often experience a strange kind of passive acceptance existing within the ranks of those working in the childcare industry that baffles me. It is bizarre to hear underpaid women make excuses for the economic injustices that exist in this industry.
I know for a fact that the corporate childcare industry is charging the parents a hefty price and pocketing most of the profits at the highest level. The wages for the people who do the actual real work of childcare are kept at poverty level or barely above it.
That does not surprise me.
What surprises me is how many women are willing to passively accept it, defend the corporations, attempt to belittle the women who complain about it, and perpetuate the female ghetto with their mild mannered, "I dont deserve more" attitude.
It was refreshing to finally see a post that challenges the status quo.
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Date: 10/17/2005 2:16:00 PM
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Author:
bobbiann
(bigddog803@go.com)
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Subject:to those accepting of their pay...
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too many childcare workers defend their low pay, saying parents can barely afford to pay the bill now. And mom needs to work. but, HEY, what about you! you are working, don't you deserve the pay. do you enjoy 'donating' some of your pay to 'help' another working mom. even if the mom is working just to provide the 'fun' stuff in her life. especially in 'independent' child care center you will find women strongly defending their meager checks. like it's noble to help another mom go to work. hmmmm, could they be as defensive and outspoken to help these same moms stay home? to help change government policies that make the cost of living so high? In the 70's and 80's (this is all I can go back!) you could be single and buy a car and rent an apartment and get by. Not today, taxes, insurance, food, gas, it's all forcing us to have two incomes to survive. Adding more child care subsidies will just add more taxes to pay, and it's a cycle that is out of control. I say unionize, and get the pay we deserve. The benefits we deserve. The respect we deserve. Proud UNION pre-K teacher !!!
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Date: 11/4/2005 2:07:00 AM
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Author:
Julie (liverpool)
(MzIntegra81@hotmail.com)
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Subject:In response to Terri
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i too agree i have been working in childcare now for 5 years and thoughout my time of studying and working all we do hear about is underpaid aND not enough benefits for us childcare workers and how we all say we are just doing it for the children but do you no what it is true, it is because we as childcar workers do love our jobs so much and stick to it that they are continuing to pay us at the same under paid wages for how many years now.
also terri did u use to work in liverpool for italian owners, i lost contact with a terri who did and who i would love to get back in contact with.
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Date: 10/13/2005 3:15:00 PM
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Author:
Elizabeth
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Subject:It IS Time for a UNION
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Yes, it is time for unionizing the preschools of America.
the corporate institutions would totally freak.
right now they offer just enuf to make those not too bright think they are getting a good deal at work.
they have pacified the masses of women who do the dirty work, use their own paychecks for supplies, and make wages appropriate for teens.
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Date: 10/19/2005 1:12:00 PM
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Author:
Kim
(kvak@elconcilio.org)
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Subject:I do agree something has to happen to gi...
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I do agree something has to happen to give child care providers what they are owed. As both a mom and a provider at a center I see things from both sides. Yes providers deserve to be paid more but I can not afford to pay anymore than I am. I would have my child with me but I work for a state subsidized program that only accepts families who work in agriculture. I can not afford to go back to the private sector as the pay is significantly less. I think more large businesses need to add a dependent care subsidy to their benefit packages and the goverment needs to see that private centers and homes do get a share of the tax dollars ear marked for Early Childhood Education so that they can afford to be paid more.
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Date: 10/17/2005 6:34:00 PM
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Author:
lana
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Subject:My family owns a child care center and w...
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My family owns a child care center and we pay our employees as much or more than we make ourselves- and they aren't there putting in the after hours in the evening and on the weekend painting, shopping, cleaning, etc.
I have no doubt that chains in larger cities are bringing in the bucks and are not trickling it down to employees, but I know there are some independent child care centers who are doing all they can to provide a great job for people, and we appreciate our employees.
I think it's time for the gov. to step in and help us out. Not sure about other states, but here in TN we are so regulated by the state that we might as well be state employees with state benefits!! We recently had to stop keeping infants because people in this area can't pay enough for infant care, we couldn't even pay a teacher with what other local centers are charging.
Then, if regulating us out of infant care wasn't bad enough, the state decides to use "excess" lottery proceeds to open, guess what, early childhood programs in the public school system.
What an outrage! Be ticked at your boss if you want, and it's probably warranted, but here in TN- at a top rated 3 star center- I'm fuming at the government.
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Date: 10/21/2005 5:23:00 PM
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Author:
Robyn
(quade00@comcast.net)
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Subject:Yes, I agree. I have been on all sides ...
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Yes, I agree. I have been on all sides of the fence, family day care provider, senior staff, director, and now a child care center owner. My center is also an independent center licensed for 52 children. I try to pay the staff as much as I can but like you I work 7 days a week all hours of the day. I have always said that the government needs to start paying the centers, not parents who keep having babies. The government should set aside money for the centers to pay the staff. I don't want the money for the income of the center, I want the money to go directly to the staff. Government money is going into the wrong hands.
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Date: 5/30/2007 9:16:00 AM
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Author:
Shelly
(AmazingKids2636@aol.com)
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Subject:Owner-operator
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I totally hear you! My family also owns and operates a Daycare Center (we're in MN) With the regulations - Equipment required, Training required, Qualifications required - by the State of MN it is very difficult to pay what our dedicated staff is truly worth! A lot of people do not realize what the expense is for all of the supplies, fees, meals etc. You have to consider worker's comp., taxes, supplies, meals, and you don't qualify for a lot extra funding if you are a for-profit business. (and let me tell you we are just now - after 7 years - starting to show a very small profit.) Being the daughter/sister of the co-owners I have opted to pass on my raise in order to allow for my staff to be able to get theirs. These individuals have been with me for a long time in terms of child care - but in order for this to happen, someone has to give a little. I find that a lot people don't necessarily understand all of cost of owning or running a child care business and yet they expect more with out doing the research.
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Date: 11/6/2005 5:42:00 PM
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Author:
kathy
(corkie_@,msn.com)
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Subject:to bobbi-ann, union pre-k teacher
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you say, you do not want to pay more taxes.
Yet you want to unionize - don't you realize the union itself is taxing YOU? (and a political tax.)
If the state governments must come up with more funding to pay into subsidizing early childhood... it will come in the form of more taxes or budget cuts to other early cildhood programs. That's going on already. Out state cut administrative support to the cacfp programs to balance their state budget.
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Date: 5/21/2007 4:21:00 PM
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Author:
bobbi ann
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Subject:proposed universal preK in the US
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so, Hillary Clinton is proposing a voluntary federal preK for American kids, predominately low-income or limited-English preschoolers. Teachers will have to have a specialization 4 yr degree in early childhood education. (some states already require teaching certificates for state funded schools). So, what shall the pay be? Public schools pay preschool teachers with a 4 yr degree about $28,000 a year working the school year. I see too many 4 yr degreed 'teachers' in day cares working for $8 an hour. these well-meaning, helping (subsidizing) parents afford day care, 'teachers' accepting such low pay in day care just cheapens our profession.
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Date: 1/26/2006 7:10:00 PM
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Author:
carolyn
(carton729@aol.com)
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Subject:unions
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i live in northern minnesota where unions are a major stronghold. unions can bebefit a worker or they can hurt you. if A UNION IS ACTIVELY POURSUING new members, they are probably out to make money for themselves--they are not really interested in the worker's rights. there are good unions out there, but wouldn't it better if all day-care workers banded together and stood up for their rights? after all, isn't that how unions came into existence in the first place? it's not always good to follow the crowd. we all must make informed decisions about what would be best for us and our kids. if daycare workers would all stand together, we would see major changes--there's nothing better than peer pressure on a national level. the truth is, there are many parents out there who don't care where their kids are placed, as long as they can have their careers. in many cases, day care workers care more about their kids than they do. sad but true. i applaud all those who lovingly care for our nation's children. keep up the good work, and fight for your rights!! band together, and don't worry about joining a formed union. form your own. it's the american way!!
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Date: 1/26/2006 7:10:00 PM
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Author:
carolyn
(carton729@aol.com)
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Subject:unions
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i live in northern minnesota where unions are a major stronghold. unions can bebefit a worker or they can hurt you. if A UNION IS ACTIVELY POURSUING new members, they are probably out to make money for themselves--they are not really interested in the worker's rights. there are good unions out there, but wouldn't it better if all day-care workers banded together and stood up for their rights? after all, isn't that how unions came into existence in the first place? it's not always good to follow the crowd. we all must make informed decisions about what would be best for us and our kids. if daycare workers would all stand together, we would see major changes--there's nothing better than peer pressure on a national level. the truth is, there are many parents out there who don't care where their kids are placed, as long as they can have their careers. in many cases, day care workers care more about their kids than they do. sad but true. i applaud all those who lovingly care for our nation's children. keep up the good work, and fight for your rights!! band together, and don't worry about joining a formed union. form your own. it's the american way!!
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Date: 10/19/2005 2:59:00 PM
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Author:
Lydia
(lydia@oregonafscme.com)
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Subject:Gaining power and a voice in a union just for child care.
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Child care professionals are already forming unions in many states with three different local unions for child care: Child Care Providers Together, United Child Care Union, and VOICE. In the past few years, child care professionals have won improvements in states like California, Pennsylvania, New York, Oregon, Minnesota, Iowa, and many others.
Here in Oregon, where I'm writing from, 5000 professionalized in home child care providers just organized a union with Child Care Providers Together and are now gearing up to sit down and negotiate over improvements in licensing, regulatory issues, pay increases, and health insurance benefits!
If you're in the child care field and want more information about how to make improvements through a union in YOUR state, check out this website.
http://www.afscme.org/childcare/index.html
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Date: 10/20/2005 8:29:00 AM
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Author:
debi
(kidz4fun@juno.com)
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Subject:unions
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I have also heard info about the new unions forming around the country. It is interesting to me, but I am confused about how they will really work. When you say "and are now gearing up to sit down and negotiate...", who are you gearing up to sit down with?
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Date: 11/20/2005 2:15:00 PM
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Author:
kathy
(corkie_@msn.com)
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Subject:reference to mn
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you can leave out Minnesota, the 2 unions are barely visible and definietely not a "voice" or a "force" and have made no improvements at all!
They have, however, gotten themselves a bad reputation among providers for pretending to be from the food program, licensing, and have followed schoolaged children in from the bus stop right into provider's homes. The doorknockers have tried ploys like "sign here to prove to my boss I was here" or "sign here to get more information". One tried it one me this summer. "Sign here to let people know providers deserve higher pay and benefits." But you actually sign to indicate a desire to join a union.
Why the trickery, why not promote this on proven, actual money for providers? I would like to see actual health care policies that family child care providers receive through union membership.
kathy
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Date: 11/27/2005 2:25:00 PM
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Author:
Heather
(knhfalk@aol.com)
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Subject:responce to Lydia
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I'm sorry Lydia but your information is wrong. AFSCME is not in Minnesota that's more of their propaganda. Home based childcare is fighting the union. It's ridiculous to think it could benefit us to join. We set our own wages, write our own contract with parents and they can't get us health care. They have used underhanded methods to get so called members and then turn around when faced with opposition and set up meeting and hearings with our commissioners, with out providers in put. All the union wants from home- based childcare providers is are money. I hope anyone in a home based operation asks them the hard questions before they agree to join. Like who is going to pay for healthcare, retirement, and better insurance. Is it possible for these things in my state and what dose the health policies look like in the other states. You are a fool if you just take there smooth talk and sign on the line.
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Date: 10/20/2005 6:58:00 AM
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Author:
marci
(marcystewart@aol.com)
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Subject:union
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I am just now hearing lots about daycare provider unions. I am interested in knowing what actual benefits we would receive by joining together. Would like to hear from those who are in a union now and what it has done for them.
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Date: 10/20/2005 8:31:00 AM
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Author:
debi
(kidz4fun@juno.com)
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Subject:union
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I am also interested in talking to someone who has joined a union to hear what it has really done for them. Please let me know if there is anyone who is in a union.
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Date: 10/20/2005 11:42:00 AM
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Author:
Lydia
(lydia@oregonafscme.com)
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Subject:The process of "negotiations" varies dep...
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The process of "negotiations" varies depending upon the situation. In Oregon, family child care providers will be negotiating with the different state agencies that regulate and oversee them. Through this process, providers will have a chance to sit down as equals with the heads of these agencies and have a real discussion about what providers think could be improved or changed.
In other states, providers are organizing by county or by city... the effort often depends upon who regulates the providers and what opportunities we have to get official recognition.
In Oregon, the Governor agreed to officially recognize family child care providers after a majority of them signed cards indicating that they wanted to unionize with Child Care Providers Together/AFSCME. This process may vary from place to place.
I hope this helps answer your question!
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Date: 11/6/2005 5:51:00 PM
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Author:
kathy
(corkie_@,msn.com)
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Subject:lydia
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Lydia, please define "improvement"
You cite Illinois but SEIU has agreed to not attempt to negotiate any health care benefits for providers and has not made a gain in rate scale, paid holidays, or overtime for providers receiving assistnce reimbursement on behalf of parents. i have provider friends and relatives there.
I live in Minnesota; you say unions have made improvement here? The unions are barely warming up, have no contracts with any agency, and have been less than honest in their doorknocking etc.. What improvement is that?
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Date: 10/20/2005 6:03:00 PM
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Author:
Kristen
(Kilikina0525@adelphia.net)
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Subject:Getting A Union
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I totally agree.....I am currently working at a chiildcare center and have been there for four years, I am only making $7.00 and hour and have to pay $44.00 a week for my own health insurance. Yet another aide who works in my center is making $9.00 an hour and has been there less time than me. For the amount of money that they charge these parents, it's apawling at how we are treated. We are way more to those children than just their teachers. I hope that some childcare owners and directors read this, and get informed about your workers and how we feel.
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Date: 10/21/2005 2:38:00 PM
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Author:
Angela Owens
(angelowens2003@yahoo.com)
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Subject:I agree! I believe that we are highly un...
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I agree! I believe that we are highly under paid. I think if we are required to get an education (as we should), then we ought to be paid like it, recieve benefits and recieve some respect. As far as the education world goes, they put their nose down at us as babysitters and nothing more.
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Date: 10/23/2005 7:13:00 AM
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Author:
Terri
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Subject:unionize
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I agree with the statement that daycare workers are underpaid. The large corporate daycares are making millions off the parents and the government. the government is already paying millions in vouchers for low income children to attend daycare.
Is the profit from institutional care for children and babies being shared with those who do the actual work? No
Do most of these undereducated, underpaid women feel that they are getting what they deserve? In some strange way I see the answer as YES! It is bizarre to hear daycare teachers sympathize with the parents financial strain, while accepting their own meager paychecks as justifiable.
Many are just brainwashed into believing that they are being taken care of as a few tidbits are thrown their way.
The answer to this is to unionize, so that those who cant and wont speak for themselves will have an able negotiating team of experts represent them to corporate heads.
Major companies in the USA often own a multiple "brands" of daycare. For instance, Knowledge Learning Corp owns KindeCare, Childrens World, Discovery Centers, Mulberry and many more. It's a billion dollar industry. All of their daycare staff are making federal poverty level wages for a family of 4.
Unions need to approach daycare staff to give them the opportunity to make an alternative decision about the quality of their care! that same old song and dance we hear so often in the industry about "quality of care" for children, needs to include the quality of care for teachers.
It will happen if the teachers demand more...somebody has to watch all those kids being left with strangers!
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Date: 11/6/2005 6:00:00 PM
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Author:
kathy
(corkie_@,msn.com)
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Subject:terri- institutional care
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Maybe parents should get their babies out of institutional care. Licensed family child care typically costs half as much - if htat happened, or parents paid their family chldcare provider 75% of what they pay institutional care, it would be a win-win situation. And a plus for the baby.
I've been in childcare business for 17 years and I do make good money; I set my own rates and determine my own hours and my working condition. I have a paid vacation.
People who can't speak for themselves or have no backbone should perhaps find another line of work. If they don't already have self-respect what kind of role model are they for children?
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Date: 11/3/2005 9:53:00 AM
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Author:
Bob
(compani@cseainc.org)
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Subject:VOICE
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We are VOICE, And we are orgainzing childcare providers in New York State. Contact us at 1-800-342-4146 ext 1356 for any further information. We are also at www.voicecsea.org or you can e-mail us at voice@cseainc.org
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Date: 5/21/2007 11:44:00 AM
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Author:
deidra l smith
(deidraroc@yahoo.com)
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Subject:interested in joining
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hello my name is deidra l smith. i am interested in joining csea.my new address i 388 post ave rochester,ny 14619. i am currently a childcare provider.
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Date: 11/6/2005 5:04:00 PM
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Author:
Roni
(LtlRedHen3@aol.com)
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Subject:NO WAY!
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Ok, I see I'm the only one taking a stand for the other side here, but I'm going to anyway. Don't you DARE suggest that Minnesota providers are unionized. Yes, both unions are trying (through lies and deceit) to organize providers. But they can't do anything that we and our associations aren't already doing. In Minnesota at least, the subsidy rates are based by law on a survey of what providers are charging. The union can't change it, only the providers can. If you want health insurance, many will qualify for our state subsidized plans. If you want a paid vacation, change your contract to get one. The union isn't going to do that for you. They won't make your parents show up on time or pay on time or keep their child home when it's sick. What they will do is take what little money you make in the form of dues. All they want is more members to increase their own power. It says so on the AFSCME website. I refuse to be a part of any organization that will lie to your face, as these unions have done time and again. People, get a backbone! Stand up for yourselves, and don't get duped into letting a union take away your right to speak for yourself.
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Date: 8/11/2006 12:20:00 PM
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Author:
Linda
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Subject:Unions
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Yes, unions(SEIU) have been pulling out all the stops to unionize in my state of Maryland. They have told many untrue things to providers to get that signature on a card showing support. Providers in this state, thanks to our state and local associations, have shown them that we will not be bullied into anything.
They never approached the state family child care association when they came into the state to organize. They secretly came up with a Bill that they tried to get passed by decieving our Legislators. Thank goodness our Legislators had the good sense to listen when we spoke. The Bill was defeated. In the end they could not even get the votes of the Legislators that they had conned into introducing the Bill. Our providers, associations, early childhood advocates and agencies had made an impact. MSFCCA (Maryland State Family Child Care Association)is the driving force for licensed family child care in Maryland and does a wonderful job at representing us. We have a voice and are heard. We have a seat at all of the tables from Legislative decisions to regulatory issues. Due to the efforts of many child care advocates in Maryland, including MSFCCA, our Licensing agency was just moved to our State Department of Education because in Maryland we realize that learning begins at birth.
ALl of this shows that providers do not need a union to come in and represent them. Providers need to stand up for themselves. Get involved in your associations and support their efforts to get positive legislation, regulatory issues and other benefits for providers. Our association is now working to get Health Care benefits for providers and their families. There is power in numbers and if you choose not to be counted and let someone else do it for you, then you have no right to complain about these issues.
Yes, we need society to respect the work that we do and support us accordingly but the way to get there is to tell them and show them by our actions that we will make positive changes.
Unions may work well in other states that are not as organized as Maryland but my only advise would be to be informed before you make a decision to pay someone else to represent you when you can do it yourself.
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Date: 11/8/2005 2:23:00 PM
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Author:
bobbiann
(bigddog803@go.com)
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Subject:subsidies/taxes?
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Kathy, I teach 4yr olds, following the same state mandates and curriculum standards as the Kindergarten teacher down the hall. I also must give 'assesssments', open house, and two school conferences. We both have the same degree. Yet, I receive $10,000 a year less. If I didn't have the union, I wouldn't have medical, retirement and other perks like the 'teacher'. Why should I be paid less than the 5 yr olds' teacher? I can't even join the state teacher's union or be in the public school benefits system. I think the government has NO business subsidizing child care. I stayed home with my kids, yet another family making the same yearly income got nearly $6000 a year in child care subsidies for their two kids. Did the government give me $6000 to stay home? No, they just taxed me to help pay for the other families' day care bill. talk about fairness. It's time to unionize, either we are 'real teachers' or just 'overpaid babysitters'.
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Date: 11/6/2005 6:04:00 PM
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Author:
Maureen
(Maureen22m@aol.com)
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Subject:Union
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For those of you that are involved in unions across the country can you share with us what benefits your union provides for you and what your initiation and monthly dues currently cost?
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Date: 11/7/2005 11:32:00 AM
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Author:
Linda
(t0good@webtv.net)
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Subject:Im a member of VOICE in NY
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The cost for the VOICE Union that I'm in is VERY reasonable. It's just $54 for the year. With that, I can get a reduced rate liability insurance. There are also other options that I can get through them like life insurance, health insurance, but I don't need.
Also, we meet about once a month (or more frequently if a problem were to arise) to find out OUR issues, come up with action plans, and follow through. We have had some summits, with another one coming up in April, and have had major break throughs. Like when NYS first came out with MAT training, VOICE got them to hold off for a number of months before instating it and got the State to issue funding for it. There is so much more as well.
If you guys have more specific questions, you can contact Ed Gresco at VOICE (CSEA) at gresco@cseainc.org. He's a great guy who's been on both sides of the fence as well.
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Date: 11/8/2005 2:52:00 PM
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Author:
Terri
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Subject:companies fear unions
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If a union doesnt provide for it's members and give them power, represntation, and a voice then why are they so feared??? A union is the only thing that will force corporate owned childcare to reconsider the poverty level wages they offer their staff. Without the staff of hardworking teachers, no corporation would exist in daycare, yet they do not honor, respect, or provide teachers with a livable wage.
I agree with bobbiann that the government should not subsidize more childcare for working parents. That is just more money out of my pocket (TAXES) to help parents make more money and pay less for childcare.
Parents are paying enough, but it is being kept at the top.
A union gives workers the power of a strike, negotiations, and a voice. Pilots, nurses, teachers, ...most professions have depended on a union to fight for their share.
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Date: 11/20/2005 2:03:00 PM
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Author:
kathy
(corkie_@,msn.com)
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Subject:MAT training in NY state
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My understanding of the medication administration training required for NY fcc providers is that the legislation was pushed through by the nurse's union.
For things as simple as OTC meds that we've been administering for years, but the nurses union promised more pay/higher income so they pushed this through and the nurses they represent are doing the training!
Doesn't that seem a bit odd, and the taxpayers are paying the nurses to do it? let's get at the root of the situation here.
kathy, mn
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Date: 11/9/2005 5:54:00 AM
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Author:
Rudy
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Subject:WOW
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You teach in your public school system in a preschool classroom and don't get paid what the teachers get. That is sad. I teach prek in my district and we are all on the same salary schedule as the teachers.
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Date: 11/12/2005 7:04:00 AM
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Author:
bobbiann
(bigddog803@go.com)
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Subject:clarification to maureen
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I did not work at home or use day care, so I could not get a day care credit on my taxes. What I implied was families were mom and dad were working making the same (or more) yearly income as us total, and yet getting $6000 to pay for child care. My family sacrificed to have me at home with my kids, and I wind up helping subsidize child care through taxes for moms who chose to work. As for my center, the public school 'contracts out' their preK program as a cost-saving move. Origionally, the teachers were paid the same as the other teachers and considered school teachers. Now we are 'independent' of the school, yet rent space.
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Date: 11/20/2005 2:43:00 PM
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Author:
kathy
(corkie_@msn.com)
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Subject:bobbiann - equity for prek teachers
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You are talking about being a preschool teacher; you work under guidelines set by the state including curriculum. You are located in a school building. I assume your slary comes frm the school district? Then, I can see your point about equitable pay for the responsibility you take on.
I am self-employed and run my own business and am responsible for every aspect of that. I follow set guidelines for the health, safety & welfare of the children in my care. I set my own rates, write my own contracts, curriculum, pay for all my own training. I've gone through accreditation. The state determines how many children I may have in my care and what ages, but 90% of my business is based on my terms.
I am also a trainer, mentor, and advocate. I do child assessments, parent conferences, and write behavior plans, grants, fundraise, participate in IEP and IFSP teams. I have testified and had laws changed.
Why would I accept a union to speak for me? What if I am opposed some of the moral, ethical and political leanings associated with one, two or three unions- why would an individual in my position support this, or accept being taxed by one as a condition to a having a license ?
My husband is a licensed substitute teacher; only does this occasionally, but the union fees are taken right off the checks & he'll never get a cent back.
kathy
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Date: 11/9/2005 8:40:00 AM
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Author:
bobbiann
(bigddog803@go.com)
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Subject:wow?
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no, wow is before unions, you got $8 to $11 an hour (6 hour days), plus a $800 supply check. unions got us about $5000 extra a year in pay. We get $10,000 less than the regualr teachers. I don't know how they figured that, but before we were only averaging around $12-18,000 a year with no benefits.
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Date: 11/13/2005 8:51:00 PM
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Author:
Melissa
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Subject:Corporate Chains
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After doing research for a college paper I'm writing, I came across information stating that large chains like Kindercare (as namely stated in my sources) are the main perpetrators in minimum wage salaries. Privatly owned and non-profit centers paid much higher wages, nearly double the minimum wage. Reasons being chains have share-holders to keep happy and owners' wallets to fill. They have to sell a product. I'm not sure why non-profit and private owned centers pay higher wages however. Perhaps there are some theories, but the big chains seem to be the cause of most workers grief. I myself work at a big chain center and only make 7.35 an hour; salaries are capped at 9.50 (even for directors!).
As for the unions organizing in New York and Pennsylvania, I'm located in New Jersey and I haven't heard anything about a union here. I believe a union would do much more good then harm, as some of you have mentioned.
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Date: 11/26/2005 8:36:00 AM
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Author:
Lisa
(Foxxydkbrown@yahoo.com)
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Subject:Childcare laws
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I've been a childcare provider for four years now. A person wrote a letter that was proven to be a lie to the Department of Human Services here in Colorado, which open an investgation on my childcare. My youngest child's father was here in my home, and due to his background we never said that he resided in my home. Now this was my profession before I began this relationship with him. But the person knew of his background and wanted to destory my business. So, the state began to ask me if he lived here, I said yes, because I was trying to make things right with him being in the home. The state asked me to provide them with his background information on his criminal background and his fingerprints. I asked my license specialist before I agreed with the whole background check what would result in losing my license. She would only say that it was up to the divison of childcare to decide. Needless to say my license was revoked last week. They state didn't provide me with an attorney but wanted me to go to court and fight for my license. I tryed everything I could, because I never had any complaints, no issuses with any of my families. I just wanted to do chilcare. I didn't have a back-up plan, it's just a bad situation. Who's there to help us childcare providers when we have a situation as such, we need help with legal issuses, and help to understand the rules and regulations as well as the laws.
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Date: 11/26/2005 9:50:00 AM
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Author:
kathy
(corkie_@msn.com)
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Subject:childcare laws (lisa)
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Lisa, I've known some thatlet their license go when their teenager got in trouble. At first their child was able to go stay with relatives, then licensing said the child could not even visit home on weekends when daycare children were not present. How can a minor charge that did not go to court separate a parent and child like that? But it does, even writing a bad check disqualifies someone after last year's legislative session.
It seems the people making the laws, and the public, want to know everything about our personal lives. They think our judgemment or parenting was faulty to have people who have made mistakes come into contact with the children. It's called a "parent's right to know" or "parent confort." We have new posting requirements and our minor children have lost their privacy and their mistakes must be posted now, even when Human Services determined they were no danger to the safety & welfare of the other children.
I am so sorry this has happened to you. I can't answer whether a union attorney could help you, from what I see they are discounted or free providing no rules were broken.SO much would be hindsight. Can you still do childcare in another environment, like in a rental property or another provider's home as jointly licensed?
When you get a license do they provide training on understanding the regulations at all or do you send in paperwork and that's it? I really would fault licensing for you not understanding the regs, but of course they wouldn't admit that. What are your options now?
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Date: 1/3/2006 8:56:00 AM
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Author:
Liz
(caringfriends@msn.com)
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Subject:Unions/Brightside Academy centers in Philly
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Spend an hour in a Brightside Academy in Philly. They are unionized - and staff members will tell you flat out what they will and won't do, etc. The care is criminal. Speak with the director - it is almost impossible to get rid of bad or marginal employees. There is no motivation for staff to go above and beyond, or invest anything more than the minimum - in fact, co-workers apply pressure to maintain the status-quo so that they don't look bad. There are several pro-union publications that toute how successful this collaboration is, and how good staff retention is... but never is the quality of care mentioned. If you want to research unionizing, spend some time at a Brightside/Allegheny center. Be prepared for having a hard time sleeping that night though.
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Date: 1/27/2006 2:04:00 PM
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Author:
Robyn
(quade00@comcast.net)
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Subject:Child Care Workers Pulling Together
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Wow, your message is good and strong. I agree with child care workers pulling together. More than that I truely agree that some children are better with us than their own parents. There are times a parent will drop their child off at the center and go back home. I see it as the parent stills pays then why not. Well, I have some staff that do not feel the same way. In some cases the child is better with us than all day with their parent. Not to say the parent doesn't love them but we are seeing more parents having children because that is what sociaty wants or the mother became pregnant by accident. It is sad but I am thankful the children have good providers out there to take care of them.
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Date: 2/2/2006 12:30:00 PM
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Author:
bethie
(Early childhood ages)
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Subject:Rates
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I've never heard of rates of 45.00 and 60.00 per day! Is that a misprint? Who can afford that?
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Date: 2/2/2006 12:32:00 PM
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Author:
bethie
(Early childhood ages)
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Subject:Also
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Is that 12 children for one care giver? That is twice the number we are allowed in my state. That seems awfully high, also. Just wondering.
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Date: 7/21/2006 5:42:00 PM
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Author:
Sue
(goesue45@wmconnect.com)
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Subject:Child care ratios
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In Minnesota, the family child care license varies according to the license one is issued. I have a C-3 license. This means that I can have 14 children with a helper present. The breakdown of the children ages is as follows:
You may have up to 4 infants and toddlers, of that number only 3 can be infants. I can also have 6 more preschool children with 4 infants and toddlers. The balance (4) must be children who are school aged.
a C-2 license may have up to 12 children, of that 3 may be infants or toddlers, and of that number only 2 may be infants. One may also have 8 more preschool children and 2 school age children.
There is also a C-1 license and is works pretty much the same with only a total of 10 children. 2 may be infants or toddlers and 6 preschool age with 2 being school age.
Confusing - yes? What are your ratios?
Sue
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Date: 2/5/2006 7:29:00 PM
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Author:
Heather
(knhfalk@aol.com)
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Subject:Capacity
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I live in MN and we are licenced for 12 kids to 1 provider also, I am licenced for 14 with a helper. I make $25 a day per child and I only work 8 hours. I't a great job and I make good money. I don't need the union to come in and take my Hard earned money to give me benifits I can obtain on my own. I am highly respect because of my good reputation and the quality of care I provide right out of my home. I have lobbied at the grassroots level to obtain right for myself and all the providers in my county. We can do it for our selves and we don't need some dishonest money hungry union.
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Date: 2/4/2006 10:15:00 PM
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Author:
gi jo
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:MY OPINION FOR UNIONS IN 2006
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Hey ladies and gents,
I was reading all the emails, from all these different states. In reference to unions. I live in what is called downstate NY, I believe that we cannot fight for our rights with the agencies that govern us. No matter where you live. Thats where the strong force of unionization comes in. Numbers. Yes, its a business I will agree, but the foundation and the sincerity of most of the union representatives is there. You cannot fake it, no matter how much money they are making. I did not see the mention of what is lacking in our profession RESPECT. Some of us, depending on our demographics, do not put up with the disrespect of the notorious DSS, department, but we ALL no matter how lucrative your daycare business is, suffer from the inconsistencies and the whim of regulations that do not make sense at times. Try fighting on your own, it just does not work. You need a strong force to be your MEGAPHONE, like VOICE. UFT-ACORN. i HAVE experienced both. I live downstate, NYC, therefore I am represented or will be represented by UFT-ACORN.
What has the union done for me? It has given me HOPE for a way that our jobs becomes a recognized profession in the eyes of society. WE STRIVE for Respect and do not want to Compromise our dignity while seeking this basic right of all living creatures on this earth. WE ARE THE UNINDENTIFIED EDUCATORS OF THE FUTURE GENERATIONS....ITS TIME TO BE RECOGNIZED AND GIVEN WHAT WE DESERVE.
PEACE SIGNING OFF
GI JO/
UFT-ACORN MEMBER
VOICE MEMBER
SIDCA TEAM MEMBER
CHILDCARE PROVIDER/OWNER OF GA GA DAYCARE
CHECK OUT THE BUILDING OF THE STATEN DAYCARE ALLIANCE website- www.sidca.org All are welcome
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Date: 2/5/2006 7:25:00 AM
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Author:
Roni
(LtlRedHen3@aol.com)
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Subject:I beg to differ! I have personally forc...
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I beg to differ! I have personally forced our oversight agency (county in this case) to reverse their decisions three times in the past six years. In two cases, it meant back-pay to many providers in the county. It can be done.
No one had to pay me to stand up for provider's rights, like we'd have to pay union dues. No one pays our associations to do it either. Our association dues barely cover the cost of the trainings it offers. Trainings that cost very little compared to what our county offers, and are far better.
Respect needs to be earned. Providers need to learn to stand up and advocate for themselves. Unions have NOT earned our respect, and the more I learn, the less respect I have for them. Do some research, there's a lot of information on the 'net about it. And take union publications for what they are - sales pitches. They don't tell the whole truth.
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Date: 2/14/2006 6:46:00 AM
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Author:
GI CLO
(UTSEA#AOL.COM)
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Subject:POWER TO UNIONS
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WOW LADY YOU WENT OFF!!!!!! THAT WAS COOL YOU PINNED IT RIGHT ON THE NOSE... SOUNDS REALLY NICE YOU TRULY HAVE THE VOICE AND YOUR BLESSED LIKE THAT AND DONT FORGET I HAVE YOUR BACK IF YOU NEED ME CAUSE WE WILL HAVE RANDI ON OUR SIDE AGAIN LOL!!!!!
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Date: 2/5/2006 2:39:00 AM
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Author:
Narelle
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Subject:Union march - QLD AUSTRALIA
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It is a very simlar situation in Australia, each state has a different award to pay staff. Child care staff in some southern states are seeing a decent pay increase. In QLD we are still fighting for it - A march has been organised by the union for may 1st (Labor day public holday) that begins in Roma st brisbane (sorry have no extra details at moment as can not find my union newsletter!) This is a fabulous opertunity to let the community know that we are more than baby sitters! hope to see you there!
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Date: 2/7/2006 4:42:00 AM
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Author:
bethie
(Early childhood ages)
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Subject:to heather
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I'm curious and have some questions if you'd have time to answer. With your 12 children, what ages are they? Are they $25 a day, even if they are school age? Approximately what percent of your income do you spend on expenses and taxes?
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Date: 2/6/2006 7:20:00 AM
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Author:
gi jo
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:IN RESPONSE TO RONI LILREDHEN
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Excuse me, but where do you live at?
You need not beg to differ, its your opinion and you do what is best for YOU... Thats the great thing about DEMOCRACY you have freedom of choices. Good for you and the county you live in, you were able to change your corner of the world. Temporarily. HOWEVER, can you say that what you did changed anything for your state? Or legislation that benefits everyone in the daycare industry, in your area.
I stand up for myself all the time, and I earn and demand my RESPECT. I am an advocate for Social Justice. I know for a fact that all humans strive for that right. You do not have to earn what should be a way for everyone to treat each other, in any profession.
UNITY is important, and in my case I feel that the way to accomplish what is not only good for me but my fellow provider sister and brothers. My choice is UNIONS.
I am sorry you have encountered people that have made you so anti-union. That has not been my experience.
Lets start by respecting other peoples opinions and beliefs. You do not have to do anything you do not want to. This is the United States of America.
I am looking for positive research on Unions, so that is what I am finding. You find what you look for.
With all that being said, to each his or her own.
Peace
GI JO
VOICE MEMBER
UFT-ACORN MEMBER
SIDCA TEAM MEMBER
PROVIDER/OWNER
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Date: 2/6/2006 12:35:00 PM
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Author:
Roni
(LtlRedHen3@aol.com)
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Subject:You have every right to support the unio...
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You have every right to support the union. You made the choice, knowingly and obviously happily. I resent having the union FORCED onto providers and that is what's happening in many states. You cry democracy, but the union way is not democratic. It's pay up or else. Union dues or fair share, take your pick. Unity comes from people of like minds working together. The union here in Minnesota is dividing people, working against providers and behind their backs. As they've done in other states as well. I'm glad your happy with your union. Keep it, I sure don't want it.
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Date: 2/6/2006 9:33:00 PM
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Author:
GI JOE
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:NOT GOOD TO BE BITTER.......IT GIVES YOU CONDITIONS..
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Sorry Lil Red Hen,
You know your responses leave me with no other choice but to respond back. Of course, I have done everything concerning the union by FREEWILL. No one tied me down, or threaten me to join. As I cry democracy I say I will keep my choices on being unionized and if you ever need US, I will share it with you and anyone in MINNESOTA. Because obviously you have a BOOTLEG Union doing some representing down there. How is that for being Democratic!
Peace GI JOE
UFT -ACORN MEMBER
VOICE MEMBER
SIDCA TEAM MEMBER
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Date: 2/7/2006 12:35:00 PM
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Author:
Roni
(LtlRedHen3@aol.com)
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Subject:The "bootleg" unions fighting to represe...
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The "bootleg" unions fighting to represent Minnesota are AFSCME and SEIU. Tell folks in Illinois that they don't have to join a union. Well, no I guess they don't if they're lucky enough to live in an affluent enough area that they don't have to take subsidized kids. Because if they're not so lucky, the dues are deducted from their subsidy checks. Same in several other states, same as would happen if they succeed in unionizing Minnesota. And the way they're going about forming their union is just as unfair. What kind of union tells a legally blind provider that they can't leave the information for them to check out in their reader later, but I'll read it for you and you can sign up now. But then "forgets" to read them the part that this isn't just for more information only, but to give this union sole representation and to take an unspecified amount of dues from any monies owed her from any public or private entity. AFSCME. I've heard all kinds of false promises and misrepresentations and downright lies from both unions. Anyone is entitled to make an informed choice, I won't argue that point. But it has to be informed, and providers aren't getting full and acurate information.
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Date: 2/9/2006 8:38:00 AM
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Author:
corkie
(corkie_@msn.com)
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Subject:freewill & democracy
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where do you live and work, GI JOE?
you refer to Minnesota as "down there"
I see NO free will or choice given to providers who publicly oppose joining or financially supporting a union.
Then those whose free will/choice has been deined are subsequently taxed by a union that surreptitiously acquired signatures on cards through misreperentation wiggled itself into a postion of sole representation of these providers through their already chummy relationships with commissioners and elected officials. Is our freedom to say "no" revoked?
JMHO:
whether or not you have chosen this course for yourself isn't going to change my mind... I don't want to be taxed by any union whose methods and political stances in other issues go against the grain of my values. This whole thing, IMO, is not about securing better quality of care for children and supporting families in hard economic times- it is about raking in money and power for pre-existing union politics.
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Date: 2/7/2006 8:14:00 AM
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Author:
Heather
(knhfalk@aol.com)
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Subject:With 12 kids its 3 kids under 2 years ( ...
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With 12 kids it's 3 kids under 2 years ( only 2 can be under 1). 2 school age kids and the rest are preschoolers 2 year olds to pre-k 5 year olds. The school age kids I charge $3 and hour with a min of 2 hours a day. I belong to a food program most months I make a little $ off that to cover other supplies. Every 6 months I charge an activity fee to buy art supplies and fund field trips. Last year I made over $40,000.00 on my taxes after deductions ( I still got a refund of a couple thousand).
I have 3 kids that receive county subsidies these families also qualify for Head start a preschool program through the state that pays me $50 per child per week to run head start out of my home. They also supply curriculum for my entire daycare.
I hope that I answered all your questions.
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Date: 2/8/2006 1:57:00 PM
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Author:
bobbiann
(bigddog803@go.com)
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Subject:12 kids!
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how can you possibly provide a safe, nurturing environment for that many kids by yourself! I can see maybe if they were all over the age three, but babies and toddlers too? state here in OH for home care providers is max 1 adult per 6 kids (or 4 babies). more than that you need a home business license. day care teachers are allowed 1 adult to 12 kids 3-5 yrs, 1 adult to 5 babies, and 1 adult to 7 toddlers. if there is ONE baby in a mixed age group, then the lowest ratio is what you go by.
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Date: 2/7/2006 8:36:00 AM
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Author:
Lisa
(Foxxydkbrown@yahoo.com)
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Subject:Re: License
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To response to my last words. I'm not really happy with the way Colorado State handled my case. Their has been providers in the Metro Denver, and Aurora area that have had children die in their homes, with no problems from the state. They're providers that are drinking on the job during the day with their husbands to cover for their actions. I think that Colorado has laws that they pick and choose who they want to enforce the rules on. Now that I'm no longer in the childcare field. I have no problems with not wanting to be around children or parents in that form. It's sorry that I have let the state make me feel bitter, but that's what happends when a person goes through something like that. Maybe things will change once it's been sometime, but now I'm not going to do childcare.
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Date: 2/15/2006 10:36:00 PM
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Author:
Lucille
(brightdays@yahoo.com)
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Subject:Unions Are The Best
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Here in Claire county, we are organized providers under the direction of Greg Battavia. I must say Unions work
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Date: 2/9/2006 7:29:00 AM
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Author:
Heather
(knhfalk@aol.com)
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Subject:Family enviorment
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That's the way it is Here in MN. I do a wonderful job and truly enjoy the kids I have. It's a family atmosphere the bigger kids love to help with the "babies" and the Babies love to watch the bigger kids. We all participate in circle time, mealtime, outside time together. In the 5 years I have been licenced I have never had an accident or complaint I have a very safe and lovibg envioerment.I personally don't think I could handle 5 infants at one time, but if it works in you state that's great.
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Date: 2/9/2006 7:29:00 AM
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Author:
Heather
(knhfalk@aol.com)
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Subject:Family enviorment
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That's the way it is Here in MN. I do a wonderful job and truly enjoy the kids I have. It's a family atmosphere the bigger kids love to help with the "babies" and the Babies love to watch the bigger kids. We all participate in circle time, mealtime, outside time together. In the 5 years I have been licenced I have never had an accident or complaint I have a very safe and lovibg envioerment.I personally don't think I could handle 5 infants at one time, but if it works in you state that's great.
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Date: 2/9/2006 1:14:00 PM
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Author:
bobbiann
(bigddog803@go.com)
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Subject:pros/cons of unions
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I agree that unions due too much to protect inept workers. yet, I see the positive at my workplace since the union came on board. first, you never knew if you had a job teaching the next school year, you'd get a notice to come back about a WEEK before school! you could be the best teacher, yet rub the wrong people the wrong way and you were out next year (or the next school break!) your school assignment could change on a whim. one year the CEO was upset at a union atempt and reassigned the entire agency teaching staff to other schools right after Christmas break. We had a meeting, they said "pack up and go to your new center today!" parents screamed, but to no avail. You could be fired for an infraction (leaving a child unattended), while the your co-worker could have the same but numerous infractions in her file. (she had 'seniority' or 'you should know better, she has problems'.) and for those inept workers, they never fired them anyway. sadly now the union is there to protect them even further. but at least I am safe at my job. oh, and we almost went on strike. the agency wanted us to take a 25% paycut! off of $18,000 a year pay! (union got us a raise!) Workers rights need protection, the government doesn't help us with that, so what else but unions?
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Date: 2/10/2006 11:46:00 AM
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Author:
Heather
(knhfalk@aol.com)
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Subject:
I totally agree with you Coorkie, ...
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I totally agree with you Coorkie, there is no free will to the union. They have no values and there only mission here is to collect as much money as possible. Home daycare providers don't have an employer, there isn't a work place that needs to be improved, We can set what ever rate we want I don't want to give AFSCME or SEIU a dime for things I can do on my own.
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Date: 2/10/2006 7:25:00 PM
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Author:
GI JOE
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:AILMENTS OF BITTERNESS
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IN RESPONSE TO YOUR LATEST DISRESPECT TOWARDS PEOPLE IN YOUR OWN PROFESSION.............BRING IT.........
(GI JO)
Alrighty now, Minnesota in attack mode, now their are two.
Let me be as clear as possible... Don't want you to feel victimized..
CORKIE WROTE................
where do you live and work, GI JOE?
you refer to Minnesota as "down there"
(GI JO)
I am GI JO from NYC.. work and live here. Child care provider/ gfdc.
You say you make good money thats why you do not understand the movement.
You have no subsidized children therefore, how can you understand....
In reference to Minnesota as "down there". what would you prefer on "the side there" or up there" you know where you at, whats your point...? Corkie.
CORKIE WROTE
I see NO free will or choice given to providers who publicly oppose joining or financially supporting a union.
(GI JO)
You see no Free will, are you shackled when you write your outbursts to others opinions. Or are you the poor legally blind provider, THEY made you sign a card that gives THEM the right to rule your life?? You should have asked for it in Braille.
CORKIE WROTE .
Then those whose free will/choice has been deined are subsequently taxed by a union that surreptitiously acquired signatures on cards through misreperentation wiggled itself into a postion of sole representation of these providers through their already chummy relationships with commissioners and elected officials. Is our freedom to say "no" revoked?
(GI JO)
Tell me how can a state that has not been approved for legislation on a union, be giving out union dues???? You are making your fellow state providers look really ...........you know.
Did THEY rewrite the constitution, in your state to take away your freedom of speech. If they did you not listening. Surreptitiously, ha, was it presented as a winning lotto ticket?
CORKIE WROTE
JMHO:
whether or not you have chosen this course for yourself isn't going to change my mind... I don't want to be taxed by any union whose methods and political stances in other issues go against the grain of my values. This whole thing, IMO, is not about securing better quality of care for children and supporting families in hard economic times- it is about raking in money and power for pre-existing union politics.
(GI JO)
Assuming you are referring to the same person and topic, WHO IS TRYING TO CHANGE YOUR MIND. Contrary to your illusion, you still have the right to just go ahead and do whatever you do. Keep to the grains of your values, they have been dampen with bitterness. Once again the intials, Thats your opinion, it may not be your view of what unions are meant to do. Won't bother explaining social justice. You are too bitter. WHY? If you have a point to make, why not attract with honey instead of using vinegar.
Only one state has been given the Executive Order to be unionized. Your state is not it.
So relax, and stop attacking people with your outburst.
gi jo/provider/gfdc
voice member
uft-acorn member
sidca team member
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Date: 2/12/2006 6:03:00 PM
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Author:
bobbiann
(bigddog803@go.com)
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Subject:home providers vs. child care centers
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I don't see why home child care providers would ever need a union. but child care centers, now that is a different story. I don't like wherre my union due money goes for politically, but then I can't afford to be treated as a slave dog by my employer. I can have my pay cut at a whim, hours cut, reassigned to another center, or worse let go for no reason. I need protection. Any suggestions other than unionizing?
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Date: 2/12/2006 5:39:00 PM
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Author:
Roni
(LtlRedHen3@aol.com)
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Subject:Holy cow, talk about bitter! Dont bust ...
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Holy cow, talk about bitter! Don't bust a gut trying to defend yourself. Your twisting words just like we've been seeing the unions twist them here. No one ever said we don't have freedom of speech. At least not now. But the union card says that they'd have sole negotiating power. We certainly would lose our freedom to speak for ourselves then. Blind provider was not allowed - by the UNION - to put the card in her reader after hours, but was read the card - by the UNION - at least the portions he wanted her to hear. We have the right to speak to other providers, we know what's happening in Minnesota, and other states. We let everyone make their own decision, we just make sure they're aware of all the facts. Not just the ones the unions want them to know. If you have something you want to share about your wonderful union, share it. You're sure not improving our impressions of them this way. Otherwise, I suggest this topic be closed.
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Date: 2/14/2006 2:33:00 PM
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Author:
corkie
(corkie_@msn.com)
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Subject:attack mode?
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<<(GI JO) Alrighty now, Minnesota in attack mode, now their are two. Let me be as clear as possible... Don't want you to feel victimized.. >>
Joe, respect must be earned, plain and simple. Yelling with the capslock on gets you nothing.
Two MN providers out of 13,000 overwhelms you so?
Been in the business over 16+ yrs, respected and respect myself. Have testified at the Legislature, been quoted in legislature journals... only once told to "shut up and sit down" by a Representative who is opposed to licensing for childcare providers, apparently-- he respects none of us.
Provider associations and grasroot advocate efforts are effective here; we're experienced and capable of undoing dumb laws that serve no real purpose. Get someon the books that make our lives easier too. Maybe what really bothers union leadership is that we accomplish this as nonprofits at no cost to providers.
I suggest anyone wishing to be respected approach their efforts at change with level heads & logic, and with facts backing them - not through bullying and making more noise than the oposition.
kathy (just one of 13,000)
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Date: 2/13/2006 9:01:00 PM
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Author:
GI JO
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:YOU GUYS STARTED IT............
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HOLY TOLEDO, FUNNY. Listen, you guys started with your barbs. Everyone should be able to voice their opinions without insults. I will drop the topic because it has no end. There are three of you guys from Minnesota that are not giving out constructive dialogue. You are tearing people up. Not right. But you know what WHATEVA. There are more important things in life. I did not twist anything that is why I quoted everything the other MINNESOTA woman was saying. Dang insulting and you guys do not expect a response?
All I am saying is you should respect others beliefs and opinions. If you have a point, make it respectfully.
We do not need anymore of that.
Signing off,
Topic dropped with The Minnesota Cousins. lol/
GI JO
Member of Voice
Member of UFT-ACORN
Sidca Team Member/Founder
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Date: 2/13/2006 5:56:00 AM
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Author:
Roni
(LtlRedHen3@aol.com)
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Subject:unfortunately, thats the way it is in an...
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unfortunately, that's the way it is in any employment. I worked a salaried job once (non-childcare related) but when the company went short of money, I was switched to hourly and had my hours cut. Couldn't do a darn thing about it. If it's really that bad there, a union might be the way to go. They do have their place and time. Good luck!
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Date: 2/13/2006 8:33:00 PM
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Author:
GI JO
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:home care provider in nyc
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I will respectfully submit an answer to your question. Why do home care providers need a union?
Where I live, this is from my experiences, and the majority of the downstate area,we are all going through similar problems. We try to fight on our own, but we are not heard nor respected. We have third party agencies that mandate us. If you hear some of the things these providers have to go through. You would understand. I will not elaborate, but we need the muscle. The muscle we have is UFT-Acorn, which are two reputable unions. United Federation of Teachers, and ACORN, which are people instrumental in things like the cost of living wages.
Believe me when I tell you we have a lot of people that have and are standing up for their rights, even though we are small business people, we need a megaphone to stand up to the powers that be.
This is my experience and explanation.
gi jo
member of Voice
member of UFT-ACORN
sidca team member/founder
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Date: 2/13/2006 2:12:00 PM
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Author:
bobbiann
(bigddog803@go.com)
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Subject:employers
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the prior for-profit centers I worked at change employment terms based on anything. money. the director's friend needed a job. another teacher begged for more hours, and I was known as 'the quite one' so I'd get bumped. a teacher didn't like teaching 2 yr olds and wanted my class. a drop in enrollment ( a legitimite reason). director angry at staff or angry at the owners. then there was the center that paid you based on the age you taught. now, at a government preschool things are better, especially now there is a union. no more games from management. other jobs you don't have to worry about the children and bonding issues. day care turnover is horrendous, at least 50% of day care staff change in a year.
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Date: 2/14/2006 8:56:00 AM
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Author:
Heather
(knhfalk@aol.com)
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Subject:What has the union done, thats good?
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As I read through the exchanges between you and the Mn ladies, I haven't seen the good. As a home day care provider I really don't see the benifit of belonging to a union. You belong to the union and are a Home Daycare provider what is the cost to you monthly "dues" and what is the benifit for your bussiness? The MN ladies seem to have proven their point of injustice from the union ;AFSCME is the second largest union in the United States right after the teamsters. Would you please explain the benifit for me?
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Date: 2/14/2006 10:13:00 AM
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Author:
GI JO
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:HEATHER, I THOUGHT YOUR MIND WAS MADE UP?
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EXCUSE ME HEATHER, YOU ARE ONE OF THE WOMEN I WAS REFERRING TO. YOU ARE ANTI-UNION. YOU HAVE YOUR MIND MADE UP SO BE IT. I AM NOT LOOKING TO CONVERT ANYONE. JUST SAID WHAT I FELT.
MAYBE ITS OUR DEMOGRAPHICS, I DON'T KNOW. I LIVE IN A CITY AREA, WITH AGENCIES THAT HAVE NEVER ENDING POWERS. BUT I DO KNOW WHAT IS RIGHT FOR ME. RESPECT THAT.
FYI,,, I DO NOT PAY UNION DUES. BECAUSE THERE IS NO WAY ANYONE CAN MAKE DEDUCTIONS OUT OF ANYONES EARNINGS WITHOUT THE PERSONS CONSENT. BESIDE THE FACT THAT ONLY ONE STATE IS UNDER EXECUTIVE ORDER, TO HAVE A UNION.
I MET PEOPLE FROM AFSCME, CSEA, VOICE. I WOULD EXPLAIN THE THINGS THEY DID AND STAND FOR, BUT WHY, YOU HAVE YOUR MIND MADE UP. THE FOLKS THAT ARE ORGANIZING HERE ARE THE UNITED FEDERATION OF TEACHERS,(UFT) AND (ACORN) ACRONYM FOR ASSOCIATION OF COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS FOR REFORM NOW. LOOK UP WHAT THEY STAND FOR. IF YOU REALLY THAT INTERESTED.
AS FOR PROVING A POINT NOT ONE OF YOU HAS SAID ANYTHING CONSTRUCTIVE. BESIDES INSULTING THOSE THAT DO NOT AGREE WITH YOUR STANCE. FOLLOW YOUR FELLOW STATEWOMEN ADVICE AND DROP IT.
HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE COME BACK TO THIS MESSAGE BOARD,AFTER YOU GUYS FINISH WITH THEM?
THE SAME PEOPLE WITH THE SAME VIEWS AS YOU AND YOUR COUSINS.
SEE YA, AND YOUR MINNESOTA COUSINS.
HOWS THE ICE FISHING? LOL (JOKE)
SIGNING OFF
GI JO
VOICE MEMBER
UFT-ACORN MEMBER
SIDCA TEAM MEMBER/FOUNDER
PROUD OF ALL THE ABOVE MORE THAN EVER,
THANKS TO YOU ALL!
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Date: 2/15/2006 10:27:00 AM
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Author:
GI JO
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:HEATHER , LOOK..........
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Date: November 27, 2005 02:25 PM
Author: Heather (knhfalk@aol.com)
Subject: responce to Lydia
I'm sorry Lydia but your information is wrong. AFSCME is not in Minnesota that's more of their propaganda. Home based childcare is fighting the union. It's ridiculous to think it could benefit us to join. We set our own wages, write our own contract with parents and they can't get us health care. They have used underhanded methods to get so called members and then turn around when faced with opposition and set up meeting and hearings with our commissioners, with out providers in put. All the union wants from home- based childcare providers is are money. I hope anyone in a home based operation asks them the hard questions before they agree to join. Like who is going to pay for healthcare, retirement, and better insurance. Is it possible for these things in my state and what dose the health policies look like in the other states. You are a fool if you just take there smooth talk and sign on the line.
Organizing daycare
by Bob Kelleher, Minnesota Public Radio
January 13, 2006
Duluth day care provider Donna Giersdorf-Thompson juggles daughter Gracie while talking about the difficulties keeping her business in business. She says she often makes about 75 cents per hour per child. Her center is licensed for 14 kids, and now has eight. (MPR Photo/Bob Kelleher)
A labor union best know for representing government workers, is now organizing home-based childcare providers. AFSCME is signing up daycare providers in St. Louis, Hennepin and Ramsey Counties. The daycare associations aren't traditional labor unions, but organizers say they might be a tool to increase support for an undervalued profession.
Duluth, Minn. — Donna Giersdorf-Thompson has been in the childcare business for four years, and already she's had thoughts about getting out.
Giersdorf-Thompson runs Small World Family Care in Duluth, where she looks after eight kids. About a third are from families that qualify for Minnesota's daycare subsidies. Others are from families not much better off. Giersdorf-Thompson says it's very difficult to raise rates to a level that would provide her a reasonable income.
"You know, we want to help people out, and don't want to make things difficult for them, so we take much less than we're worth," Giersdorf-Thompson says. "You not only receive less than you're worth, but it's really hard to increase your rates so you can expect to have cost of living increases."
Eric Lehto
Giersdorf-Thompson is one of more than 200 St. Louis County childcare providers who've signed up for union representation from AFSCME, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.
Eric Lehto heads up AFCME's drive. Lehto says it's hard to provide quality day care when childcare rates are low.
"And the astonishing number that I found is, is that the Minnesota Department of Human Services did a study, that found providers are earning on an average $2.83 an hour," Lehto says. "That's what they're, on average, taking in. A lot of those folks are not earning a lot of money."
The average is driven down by substantial costs, for building upkeep, food, training and licensing.
Providers are earning on an average $2.83 an hour ... A lot of those folks are not earning a lot of money.
- Eric Lehto
At the heart of the low return, Lehto says, is the low rate of government support for kids from the neediest families. While there was a small increase recently, Minnesota's reimbursement rates have been essentially frozen since 2002. Meanwhile, thousands of families lost their subsidy when the state raised eligibility levels.
"The providers, many of them, are put in a box, where they feel that they can't raise their rates much more or much higher above what the current subsidy rate is, which has been frozen, or for fear that their parents won't be able to afford to have their kids in their licensed center." says Lehto.
Lehto says AFSCME can can help negotiate better rates with the state. He says the union can also help providers with health care and retirement. But he says, most importantly, it can help re-focus society's commitment to kids.
"Our's is not an effort to raise the cost onto working families," Lehto says. "Our effort is to increase in the public committment, the same way that it is for public education, in terms of from birth to going into school. There should be a broad public commitment in terms of insuring that kids are taken care during that time frame in a good quality setting."
Giersdorf-Thompson's living room
AFSCME is seeking participation from at least half the providers in each targeted county. They've succeeded in St. Louis and Ramsey Counties.
Secondly, the union wants support from county government, to give AFSCME a formal voice on behalf of providers - what Lehto calls "meet and confer rights." St. Louis County is the first to agree.
County Commissioner Steve O'Neil says the county's resolution passed is more symbolic than committal.
"This is an opportunity to get those folks organized, and to have some really significant representation at the capital," O'Neil says. "Our resolution, you know, is really just a sign that we, as one county, would like to see this happen."
Eric Lehto says a similar resolution might go before the Ramsey County Board this spring. In Hennepin County, AFSCME is in the process of signing up providers. But it's slower going in the Twin Cities, Lehto says, where AFSCME finds itself competing with the Service Employees International Union. SEIU is trying to put together a statewide organization. They just did that in Illinois. AFSCME, meanwhile, claims success in several states including Oregon and Iowa.
But Lehto says AFSCME will focus for now on one Minnesota county at a time. He says it's unlikely Minnesota will give a statewide organization any role in day care, until the state has, what he calls, a "good and friendly" governor.
iT LOOKS LIKE THEY ARE THERE...........
Date: February 10, 2006 11:46 AM
Author: Heather (knhfalk@aol.com)
I totally agree with you Coorkie, there is no free will to the union. They have no values and there only mission here is to collect as much money as possible. Home daycare providers don't have an employer, there isn't a work place that needs to be improved, We can set what ever rate we want I don't want to give AFSCME or SEIU a dime for things I can do on my own.
Date: February 14, 2006 08:56 AM
Author: Heather (knhfalk@aol.com)
Subject: What has the union done, that's good?
As I read through the exchanges between you and the Mn ladies, I haven't seen the good. As a home day care provider I really don't see the benifit of belonging to a union. You belong to the union and are a Home Daycare provider what is the cost to you monthly "dues" and what is the benifit for your bussiness? The MN ladies seem to have proven their point of injustice from the union ;AFSCME is the second largest union in the United States right after the teamsters. Would you please explain the benifit for me?
WHY YOU ASK ME THIS, IF YOU ALREADY HAD YOUR MIND SET?
ALL THE ABOVE SPEAKS FOR ITSELF.
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Date: 2/14/2006 12:46:00 PM
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Author:
Heather
(knhfalk@aol.com)
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Subject:Not anti union at all
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Sorry my question of what benifit upset you so. I am not at all Anti-union, my husband,father-in-law, mother-in-law and half of my daycare parents belong to a union. They have their purpose and place. It is truly terrible what ever conditions you were working under before made you turn to the union to better your bussiness. I guess I took for granted the fact I could charge my parents whatever I wanted and too I am very sorry for thinking you had to pay for your volentary membership to the union, Here if you join you have to pay dues, or IF they are successful all providers will pay "fair share" Dues. My purpose here (at this message board) was to truely find out WHAT CAN THEY DO FOR ME AND FOR HOW MUCH$ that is all. I still haven't found the answer, your unions web site looks like all the rest and members like your self are unhelpful and hostile to those of us out for answers. So now I guess I am done because all unions wanting home daycare providers are the same; THEY WANT OUR MONEY.
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Date: 2/15/2006 5:11:00 AM
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Author:
GI JO
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:?????
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(What? ) I knew your stance, from the beginning. So why the apologies? Don't stress yourself. What you take for hostility is just keeping it real. You dish it out, but when its served back you proclaim its being unhelpful, etc.
If you are looking for answers this is definetly not the place to find them.
gi jo
voice member
uft-acorn member
sidca team member/founder
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Date: 2/15/2006 4:49:00 AM
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Author:
GI JO
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:ONCE AGAIN PORTRAYING THE VICTIM.......
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CORKIE, "RESPECT IS A GIVEN RIGHT, TO EVERY BEING." HOW DO YOU JUDGE WHO YOU ARE GOING TO RESPECT? " YOU PICK AND CHOOSE DEPENDING ON WHAT? HOW MUCH YOU PAID FOR YOUR RESPECT?
12,997 PROVIDERS ARE NOT ON THIS MESSAGE BOARD. THREE WERE THE ONES THAT I FELT NEEDED TO BE PUT IN THEIR PLACE.
OVERWHELMED, NAH. DO NOT FLATTER YOURSELVES.
YOU KEEP ON TALKING ABOUT YOU DID THIS YOU DID THAT, POLISH YOUR METALS, NO IMPACT ON A WIDE SCALE, IN THE CHILD CARE INDUSTRY. GOOD FOR YOU, CLAP CLAP...
LOOK WHOSE TALKING ABOUT LEVEL HEADED. SOMEONE THAT ATTACKS WHEN SOMEONE DOES NOT AGREE WITH THEIR OUTLOOK. THATS REAL TACTFUL.
LOOK BACK ON THIS MESSAGE BOARD AND SEE WHO THE BULLIES ARE.
THIS WAS MY OPINION, AND YOU STILL INSIST ON DISRESPECTING ME. WHERES THE LOGIC IN THAT?
P.S. I LIKE CAPLOCKS..GOT YOUR ATTENTION DIDN'T IT?
GI JO
VOICE MEMBER
UFT-ACORN MEMBER
SIDCA TEAM MEMBER/FOUNDER
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Date: 2/15/2006 10:44:00 AM
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Author:
GI JO
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:MADE A DIFFERENCE FOR THEM?
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orking poor
by Tom Robertson, Minnesota Public Radio
January 27, 2003
These children are doing a craft project in the home of Colleen Hill of Bemidji. Hill typically cares for more than a dozen kids each day. About half of her parent clients receive state assistance for child care costs. For the rest, the costs are out-of-pocket. (MPR Photo/Tom Robertson)
Each day, two-thirds of school age children in Minnesota are cared for by someone other than their parents. For many families, that's a huge expense. While lower income families can receive financial assistance for child care, many working families don't qualify for help. The high cost of day care is pushing many working families to the financial edge.
Bemidji, Minn. — It's lunch time for the kids at Caring Hands Child Care Center in Blackduck, Minnesota. Most of the kids' parents are factory workers at a nearby fabrics plant. While more than half the parents get financial assistance for their daycare costs from the state, the rest are on their own.
"I think it's a struggle to decide whether it's worth it to work or not, because it ends up taking so much of their salary to pay the day care," says Linda Ferdig, coordinator of the center.
Ferdig says there are some parents who end up with as little as $20 from their paycheck after they pay the child care bill.
The state's child care assistance program works on a sliding fee system. Generally, those making under $20,000 a year qualify. She says there are lots of families who are just over that line.
Paula Pereira pays $600 per month for daycare
"In Minnesota, the poor, I think, are pretty well taken care of as far as day care," Ferdig says. "But it's more -- almost like the middle class -- it's both people working. A lot of times they even do have some education. They definitely know how to work ... And they kind of fall through the middle and then they don't qualify for anything. And they have a hard time of it."
The numbers show that's true. One child in day care costs, on average, $100 a week. Infant care is even more expensive. Paula Pereira is a licensed teacher at the Caring Hands Center in Blackduck. She also brings her infant son there. That costs nearly $600 a month. And Pereira's family gets no state child care assistance. Their income is just over the line.
"It's hard, because I feel that my whole family would be benefitting if I stayed home and took care of my own son, instead of coming here to pay for someone else to care for him," says Pereira. "It's frustrating not to ... qualify for some help ... There are days when our checking account says zero."
Child care advocates say the choices for some people are very limited. Their income is too high to qualify for federally-funded Headstart programs. But they can't afford more expensive preschool programs.
Peg Millar, a family service coordinator for the Community Action Program for Beltrami and Cass counties, says it's an issue of fairness.
Daycare provider Linda Ferdig
"I feel all children should have the opportunity for a quality preschool program, not just those who can afford it, and not just those at the poverty level," says Millar. "And that's kind of your working poor -- because we have children, we have over-income families that can't get in ... That is working poor to me. They are struggling ... And a lot of times, those are the families that really miss out."
There are groups advocating for change. Todd Otis is director of a two-year-old non-profit organization called Ready 4 K. Otis says parents, especially low-income parents, should do a better job advocating for their kids.
Ready 4 K wants to strengthen early childhood programs like Headstart, so more children can participate. But Otis says right now there's not enough money. Fewer than half the kids eligible are enrolled.
"A lot of kids are looking through the bakery window and wishing that they could, but they are not in that program," says Otis.
Otis says the current approach to child care and early childhood education in Minnesota is too scattershot. He says the state needs a more consistent approach.
Peg Millar says all kids should have access to high quality daycare
"If you have enough money, you're bound to be able to avail yourself of really quality early childhood experiences," Otis says. "And it shouldn't be the case that how well-off you are so dramatically dictates the quality of child care that people have available to them."
And that's a huge debate -- how to make quality care available to everyone, even the working poor. The Wilder Research Center, based in the Twin Cities, has examined child care issues. Researcher Richard Chase says something called universal preschool is getting a lot of attention nationwide and in Minnesota.
"It's bad timing this year, of course, with the huge state budget deficit," says Chase. "But there's people talking about the importance of changing our thinking from K-12 to things like E-12, meaning early education, before kindergarten. For some kids, they need that early start, so (it would be good) to make it sort of universally available."
Chase says when the state's budget situation improves, such ideas will gain momentum.
"I think that there will be serious efforts placed in promoting that idea of early education and how we can fund it," Chase says. "That will be sort of the next area to focus on."
In 2001, a study by the Wilder Research Center showed that more than half of low-income families are not aware child care assistance is available. Only 12 percent of families that would qualify for help actually receive it.
One reason may be that many children are cared for by grandparents or other extended family members. Donna Schmidt, who works with the day care assistance program in Beltrami County, says some low-income people are too proud to ask for help.
"There is a stigma. ... This is still classified as the welfare office. And we don't like to be called that anymore," Schmidt says. "We are here to help people when we can. When people think they're coming in here, they don't want to have a handout ... And there isn't anything that should be embarrassing about it."
Government studies say families shouldn't spend more than 10 percent of their income on child care. The Wilder study showed families earning less than $20,000 spend nearly one-third of their annual income on child care. Families making between $20,000 and $45,000 devote about one-quarter of their income to day care costs.
Many working poor families spend up to half their income on housing. When you add that to day care costs, it doesn't leave much for anything else -- like food.
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Date: 2/15/2006 12:54:00 PM
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Author:
Roni
(LtlRedHen3@aol.com)
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Subject:You are the one that said we need a unio...
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You are the one that said we need a union in place to be able to make any changes. But obviously changes can be made without them. Even the unions aren't taking on any more than "our little corner of the world". I lived those St Louis County meetings, I can tell you what really happened there instead of relying on some heavily biased newspaper report. Prior to the meeting, six of our seven commissioners - all of whome are AFSCME endorsed by the way - came out of the back room with the AFSCME representatives and the provider they quote in that article. The one and only provider to show up at three meetings on the subject to support the unions. About a dozen were there against it, not to mention so many phone calls, letters and e-mails that our commissioners refused to accept any more. If the way to make changes is to buy politicians, then I guess the unions have us beat. It's a sad state of affairs if that's the case.
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Date: 2/15/2006 4:25:00 PM
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Author:
GI JO
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:HEAR ME OUT.........
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Lil red Hen,
For some reason, I find you to be more approachable than the other two. .
Lets have an open dialog, why don't you guys post exactly what you see, instead of knocking the heck out of someone when they voice an opinion.
You make the person not want to hear. I simply stated my outlook. It does not mean it works for you guys. .
Educate, with your words of experience and knowledge. Instead of humiliation and disrespect.
By the way you did tell me to drop the topic...
GI JO
Voice member
UFT-Acorn
SIDCA TEAM MEMBER
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Date: 2/15/2006 7:31:00 PM
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Author:
Roni
(LtlRedHen3@aol.com)
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Subject:I thought I had been trying to educate a...
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I thought I had been trying to educate all along, giving my personal experience with unions. I know the question came up about what positives there are to having unions.
Some states are what's called Right to Work states. You can join a union if you want to, you can opt out if you don't. Minnesota is NOT one of them. Here (and other states) the union gets to decide if they want an open shop or a closed. In a closed shop you HAVE to join, to be able to work that job. Well guess which way is better for the union? So if (?) they decide on a closed shop, every provider in Minnesota would have to pay union dues. Or what's called fair share. Though I'd like to know what's fair about it. It amounts to about $5 million per year into the union's pocket in this state alone. It's pretty easy to see why they're going to lie, cheat and steal to get recognition here. Would you like to hear the details on that, or is this enough education for now?
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Date: 2/15/2006 7:59:00 PM
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Author:
GI JO
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:GOOD TO KNOW,,,,,,,
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Lil Red Hen,
Now, I see why you guys SAY no FREE WILL.
Not right, To not have a say if the majority sways one way.
This is the dialog that is productive. Educating is never a bad thing. Continue, you may direct people to the right direction. But do it this way. Much more receptive. Not to mention civil.
NY is a RIGHT TO WORK STATE.
No wonder you guys are so adamant, in no union.
PEACE OUT
GI JO
VOICE MEMBER
UFT-ACORN MEMBER
SIDCA TEAM MEMBER/FOUNDER
p.s. I to will share the why I choose union. (MAYBE THE KNOWING I CAN LEAVE IF I DO NOT LIKE IT HELPS)
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Date: 2/16/2006 5:42:00 AM
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Author:
gi jo
(gagadacare#aol.com)
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Subject:I WAS WRONG,,,,,,,,,,,,,
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LIL Red Hen & Maureen,
I have to say I was wrong. WHen you're wrong you're wrong. After actually reading what you guys wrote last, and not trying to match wits. I thought all these years I lived in a RIGHT TO WORK STATE. Call it ignorance. Thats why its important that these type of dialogs are not insult matches.
Brings a new prespective to my views.
Heres a link I found, I would like to share.
info@nrtw.org I http://www.nrtw.org/
GI JO
VOICE MEMBER
UFT- ACORN MEMBER
SIDCA TEAM MEMBER/FOUNDER
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Date: 2/16/2006 12:19:00 PM
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Author:
corkie
(corkie_@msn.com)
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Subject:right to work
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Do you understand now why we are up in arms? We'd have no choice at all.
Understand also that in many states the unions- particularly SEIU, have positioned themselves to tax licensed family child care providers without their knowledge by getting signatures of license-exempt, unregulated providers caring for kith 'n' kin children on child care assistance programs.
When you look at the map you've found, the states that are being family child care union-targeted are CA, OR, WA, OH, PA, MN, MI, NY, RI etc. All closed-shop states. (The Gov. of RI has vetoed the unions' attempts at having insurance coverage & other benefits of state employees)
The one that puzzles me is Iowa. This is still a right-to-work state though I wonder whether there is something in the works to end that status.
I apologize for picking on you for using your caps-lock key, but you see, I am civil when it is not used.
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Date: 2/16/2006 3:13:00 PM
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Author:
gi jo
(gagadacare#aol.com)
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Subject:Peace sister provider
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See, we can communicate effectively. I am reading what you wrote and guess what I now have much food for thought.
This is productive, Corkie, I to am sorry for being rude.
We can learn from each other.
I will be back I have some questions I need to ask some folks. (lol) ( The Union here)
Talk to you all soon,
Gi jo
(I will leave the titles out from now on)
to much writing.lol
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Date: 2/18/2006 12:02:00 PM
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Author:
gi jo
(gagadacare#aol.com)
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Subject:I HAVE 2 QUESTIONs............
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Minnesota, ladies, Lil Red Hen, Corkie, Maureen, Heather,(optional) lol sorry could not help that.
Corkie I am refraining from using caplocks, because I know you have a phobia against them.
Here is the question for you all.
Is the majority of the providers in your county, against unionizing?
Do you guys have subsidized children?
gi jo
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Date: 2/18/2006 9:07:00 PM
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Author:
corkie
(corkie_@msn.com)
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Subject:subsidy question, peer opinion
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1) Our county assn. conducted -by mail- an opinion poll of 900 licensed providers in Sept. This included new regs- training requirements, license fees, substitute requirements, crib inspections, and whether they feel unionizing would benefit them.
TWO respondants thought it would be the answer to their prayers. TWO thought it would indeed get them affordable, full health care coverge, as that is implied in the union literature. Many had no opinion yet, some indicated they needed more information. But 67% were strongly opposed.
2) I have had as many as three families receiving child care assistance enrolled at once; have had 2 families receiving assistance enrolled within the last 12 months, but do not at this time. The calls requesting CCA contracting that I've had recently are looking for hours I do not cover.
AS licensed providers, MN statute already allows us to negotiate higher pay with parents receiving assistance with their child care costs. We just can't contract them to pay us MORE than what we collect from other families who do not receive assistance. If they cannot find a way to meet our stated tuition fees, or work something out inbetween, we can choose to not accept that family.
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Date: 2/19/2006 7:28:00 AM
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Author:
Roni
(LtlRedHen3)
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Subject:About half of my kids are subsidized. ...
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About half of my kids are subsidized.
A phone poll was done of the 420 licensed providers in my county. Only 26 gave any indication of interest in a union. Over 200 were opposed. Another roughly 100 couldn't be reached or were no longer in business.
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Date: 2/19/2006 10:18:00 AM
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Author:
gi jo
(gagadacare#aol.com)
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Subject:GUYS DOES NOT MAJORITY RULE?
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Roni and Corkie, Then you guys really do not need to worry because it seems the majority is against. Can not be done with out your consent meaning vote.
The reason for the subsidy question is that is how it can be negotiated as a Union. State Money............
If you guys were doing and apparently working well with out unions who called them in?
Dang , I wish these messages would stop going down the line, like it has been doing, Is it me? lol
Thanks for your answer........
gjo
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Date: 2/19/2006 4:44:00 PM
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Author:
gi jo
(gagadacare#aol.com)
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Subject:DEPRESSING........
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SEIU Was there, but who is supporting the idea, of provider union in your area. It seems like from what you guys are saying the majority is against. So how can it be kept afloat without participation of a majority? Thats what I do not understand. Someone puts these people in. Even those that you speak about who supported the idea?
Can you explain that? Don't be cranky, Corkie, I am not using CAPS.
GI JO
You know the rest..
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Date: 2/19/2006 1:18:00 PM
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Author:
corkie
(corkie_@msn.com)
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Subject:who called them
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No one called them.
They're already here in nursing homes, group homes, hospitals and municipal/state employee agencies and colleges.
They are going after self-employed people; SEIU is also trying to organize people that have home security businesses.
Check out how they "organized" home health care workers in California. Now people who are getting state subsidy for caring for sick or handicapped relatives in their own homes must pay to the union. IMO there is something sick about that. Nobidy asked them to take over that "occupation" but they declared these people a class of worker and subsequently helped themselves to a portion of their pay.
The whole idea of home health care was to keep the cost of operating nursing homes down, allow people to be cared for by family. Now it's costing the state more than ever and it is not true nursing ... it's friends and relatives.
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Date: 2/19/2006 10:18:00 AM
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Author:
Cathy
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Subject:Unions... seen it firsthand in childcare
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I'm not at all convinced that unionizing is the answer. I've had experience with a childcare company that was unionized. I saw a philosophy and attitude permiate the center that I had never experienced in this field... "that's not my job"; "you can't fire me"; "I'm calling the Union" (over normal, reasonable things that just needed to be worked out like coordinating lunch breaks); etc.
If the workers ever sat down and did the math... they really did not come out ahead financially. And is it fair... that great, hardworking dedicated teacher gets the same raise as the teacher that does the absolute minimum and has a horrible attitude?
I agree this is a very real issue in this field, but I think our efforts are better spent strengthining and working with our professional organizations. I also believe part of the answer is advocating for higher state reimbursement rates and additional sources of federal funding.
Thank you for allowing me to share.
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Date: 2/19/2006 11:24:00 AM
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Author:
gi jo
(gagadacare#aol.com)
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Subject:Hi Cathy.........
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Hi Cathy,
I appreciate your viewpoint. May I ask what state? I am assuming it is a center.
Their should be a medium for everything, unfortunately thats the nature of some humans..Taking advantage whenever they can.
Gjo
NY
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Date: 2/19/2006 11:31:00 AM
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Author:
gi jo
(gagadacare#aol.com)
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Subject:Hey it just hit me...............
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Corkie, ROni, Maureen to... You guys are not inhome childcare providers, are you?
I think Heather is, but you guys are??????
GI jo
mode coming back........
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Date: 2/19/2006 1:10:00 PM
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Author:
corkie
(corkie_@msn.com)
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Subject:in home or not
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In my home-
60 hours a week & 50 weeks a year.
For 17 yrs. owner & manager of my own business.
Have employed my own children too.
I am "management!"
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Date: 2/19/2006 4:59:00 PM
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Author:
Roni
(LtlRedHen3@aol.com)
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Subject:Union education, part 2
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Yes, I'm a licensed home provider, have been for almost 13 years. I don't suppose I'd be all up in arms over the topic if I wasn't.
Yes, even knowing that the majority of providers have no use for a union, we still have to worry. When (not even if, I believe it's coming like it or not) the union vote takes place, most providers will throw the ballots away. They're not voting for the union, so why not? Problem is - only the ballots that are returned count. In Washington State, they sent out approximately 10,000 ballots. Only 4,000 were returned. Since it was mostly only the ones supporting a union that voted, the majority of that 4,000 were yes, and the union is in. If only two people bother to return ballots, but they're yest votes, they drag everyone else in with them. If SEIU has their way, they'll lump licensed providers in with unlicensed. Since they get even less subsidy pay than licensed providers, they're loving that the union is promising them more money. Over 50% of subsidy clients are cared for by unlicensed providers. There we go again, dragged into it, like it or not.
Or it could go like Illinois, an executive order by the governor. Majority doesn't matter in that case. I believe that's what happened in Iowa too, but don't quote me on it.
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Date: 2/19/2006 4:32:00 PM
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Author:
gi jo
(gagadacare#aol.com)
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Subject: YOU SOUND TIRED.............
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I thought for a minute there you guys were training agencies.....
So as management Corkie...They will target your employees. I seen the authorization for deductions.
So what you mean In home or not? ??? I hope you not trying to start up again....We just started talking..
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Date: 2/19/2006 8:30:00 PM
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Author:
corkie
(corkie_@msn.com)
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Subject:employer or employee?
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not starting up again, yes, tired, and multi-tasking this weekend.
Family-owned businesses cannot have their employees/family members to unionization. There is protection there.
What a mess that would be!
I am management because I own & run this business. Most providers have little problem working within set health & safety guidelines or keeping to their ratios, its just part of doing any business.
Unions would like the states & agencies believe that providers are quasi-employees because of regs. They want providers to get into the mindset that beccause a state has the rules, and they receive a sum for providing services to a third party OR get a grant to improve the quality of their care, they are in servitude to or employed by the State.
If that thinking were true, wouldn't everyone that drives a vehicle, pays for an operator's license, and follows the Rules of the Road be in a similar situation?
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Date: 2/19/2006 8:16:00 PM
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Author:
corkie
(corkie_@msn.com)
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Subject:who supports it?
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This is the nationwide union membership drive, that's the objective. Whne you read the financial reports of unions, thye are in debt, taking out larger and larger loans each year to keep in operation, they've had to merge their locals to regional groups. All this info is online and public information. (I like to read.)
Last 15-20 yrs has seen shrinking union membership, down fto 8% of the private sector. The companies/workers are not interested anymore. Employers are more savvy on benefits ....though I hear often the cost of health insurance devastates employers and they are covering a smaller share. Union of course would reference massive healt ins. organizations and point to the top. It's not the case mith mid-sized companies.
It's a massive membership drive, and if people won't come to them they will just wash over people. I can't think of a better similie, but how else can you describe involuntary subscription?
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Date: 3/11/2007 4:58:00 PM
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Author:
ramneek rachna
(ramneek_rachna@hotmail.com)
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Subject:hi i am doing a ece pasifika course and ...
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hi i am doing a ece pasifika course and i need a few information abt kids in centres please lt me know if you could help me
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Date: 2/19/2006 6:29:00 PM
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Author:
gi jo
(gagadacare#aol.com)
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Subject:THE REASON I ASKED.............
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Lil Red HEN,
Thank you, for Education Part 2. I appreciate your input. Now let me school you as to the why I asked that question, Here in NYC training consortiums are up in arms quoting your saying. Why because the union here is offering FREE trainings. Now this worries these agencies because if successful, why would providers pay if its free. You guys sound very well informed and for a minute there I thought you were trainers. Thats the reason for that question.
What your telling me is the same route that is being followed here. As far as informal providers being counted. The following of State money. Its beginning to make sense.
I will be doing more research.
Why you guys so abrupt? It must be a MN thing.
Beginning to get use to it.
Thanks for the information. Very helpful. Don't get to cranky like Corkie....lol joke
I really hope, You guys do not have to be forced into what you do not want.
I have to put myself in your place I would hate to do what I strongly am opposed to.
GI JO
You know the Rest
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Date: 2/19/2006 8:45:00 PM
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Author:
corkie
(corkie_@msn.com)
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Subject:following state money... its federal!
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JO, it gets even better thn that. The states get the money through federal grants.
Often this is training that the states are developing that would have been low-cost to providers anyway, incentives to improve their services. Now unions come and negotiate with the state to access this training that was intended to be provided by agencies... so the agencies are lose critical operational$$ to maintain their other services to providers and parents. it's happening in IL.
Our assoc's provide low-cost traing to providers, and quality training, with no real overhead. We coordinate with the R&Rs; though,it's non-competetive & we complement each other. This will all change when a union has negotiated with the state to be the purveyor of training funded with federal $$... and sadly, they take credit for projects that have been years in development.
"we" association leadership are getting NO answers from unions on important matters, ie, IF a union were given title to sole representation of providers in all matters with the state, is a provider association eligible to bring forth legislation? Will unions negotiate away grant $$ to which we have had open access?
There are many unanswered questions, we have inquired over and over - and are ignored.
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Date: 2/20/2006 5:03:00 AM
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Author:
Roni
(LtlRedHen3@aol.com)
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Subject:LOL I never realized I was that abrupt....
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LOL I never realized I was that abrupt. I guess it's too many years of working for lawyers and engineers - get to the point.
Trainings here are offered by the resource and referral agencies and local and state associations. The association trainings are usually cheaper and better than the R & R's. But they work with us (associations) realizing it's better to have the variety of options. They've even set up on-line trainings for the ones that have a hard time getting out to them. That cracks me up because they spent YEARS telling us they wanted us to get out & mingle and not take on-line classes.
I've heard that some unions offer trainings as well. But who is setting them up? And who is overseeing the quality? It could be that they're good trainings, I don't know. But it's a question I have. I wouldn't want a non-provider that doesn't know our industry to be in charge of the trainings.
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Date: 2/23/2006 8:14:00 AM
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Author:
Karen
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Subject:unions help workers
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why do u think large corporate daycares dont want unions? it gives better working conditions to staff, thats why.
it gives them a voice and corporate childcare prefers workers with no voice, no power.
unions give you power where you powerless, where you had to constantly adjust to chronic staff turnover, poorly trained directors, and uneducated leadership that operated on a whim.
unions give you security, where before you had to play games to ensure you were in the directors pocket of goodwill.
union representation will help all daycare workers, is long overdue, and is feared by the corporate leaders.
there is areason and a place for unions in this field, and it is needed now, and in the end all will benefit except the highest level of corporate management
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Date: 2/23/2006 9:15:00 AM
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Author:
corkie
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Subject:Where do you work, Karen? What do you do...
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Where do you work, Karen? What do you do?
you made an anonymous post.
No one is saying people working in childcare don't need representation and education. The talk about force, fear, etc. is of concern to some of us in the early care & education field, as is the provision that we would have no choice or opportunity to say we wish to represent ourselves & no-thank-you-its-not-for-us.
There is the side of unionization where unfit employeesin any form of employment are retained on public and private payrolls due to their union fighting that they stay employed. Somewhere there needs to be a conscience, and more than fighting for people.
JMO
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Date: 2/23/2006 12:58:00 PM
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Author:
Bob C
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Subject:Another untruth
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Ahhh....more misleading "facts".....Unions do not make a habit of protecting and "Forcing Employers" to keep bad employees. This is simply untrue. Folks who know nothing about unions buy into this because this is what is portrayed by "Anti Union" Consultants and the like to try to put unions in a bad light. mistruths, half truths, lies. I'll never understand how anyone can believe any of this crap. I still have not heard any real FACTS from you on why you think providers coming together to form their own union would be a bad thing. I want facts not your impressions and I haven't heard any yet.
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Date: 2/24/2006 6:47:00 AM
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Author:
gi jo
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:QUESTION..........
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Hi Bob,
Are you from AFSCME/CSEA/VOICE?
gi JO
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Date: 2/24/2006 7:05:00 AM
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Author:
Karen
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Subject:unionize childcare
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The fact is that unions have a history of honorably upgrading the working conditions and salaries of workers.
They have a history of protecting those with no voice and no power. They have a history that can be documented, of helping workers secure a living wage and increase their job security.
this is valuable and important in a field where wages are rock bottom low and insulting, where workers face a lack of training, job security, and qualified leadership.
These pluses overshadow whatever minuses may exist in union representation.
But it doesnt take an expert to recognize that historically it is the top level of management and the corporate heads that want to discourage unions, and to believe that they do so with the workers in mind is laughable!!!! If they fear it, there is a good reason. they dont want to pay you more! They dont want you to have job security! They want to continue to pocket 98% of the profit associated with raising the nations children in childcare centers, not share it with the staff who are in the clasrooms giving their heart and soul to others while accepting the pay rate of a dishwasher.
I hope that childcare workers are not so ignorant as to believe that things as they stand now are "good enough". I hope they realize that nobody is striving to improve things for them, as it would cut into corporate profit.
They hand out just the minimum and spend more on marketing that minimum to you, hoping you believe it hook, line, and sinker. Unfortunately, many of these undereducated childcare workers will be frightened of something their bosses warn them against. Sad. But they really should consider the source!
It is time for childcare workers to get what they deserve.
Unions are the tool to assist them.
that is the truth. it is the historical truth. It is logical. And it is going to change drastically a field that has been kept at the lowest level of training, wages, status, respect, and retention for far too long.
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Date: 2/24/2006 10:32:00 AM
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Author:
Roni
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Subject:The fact is, weve been talking about HOM...
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The fact is, we've been talking about HOME childcare providers. Independent business owners, not employees. Or even "workers" as the unions like to put it, which I feel is a put-down. We are not powerless, we make our own working conditions. The fact is that we have associations already in place, formed by childcare providers, run by childcare providers, already advocating for us. Our voice will be even more diminished by throwing another body into the mix if a union were to take form. Oh no, that's right. The union would be the only voice and the associations that we've worked so hard to build would be worthless.
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Date: 2/24/2006 6:52:00 AM
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Author:
gi jo
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:HEY ALL,, UNION FOLKS AND THOSE OPPOSED AS WELL
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Hi All,
Union and non union folks, I will be back, but for now this is for all. I like these quotes........
POWER IS NOTHING IF YOU CANNOT TURN IT INTO INFLUENCE...
(ABSOLUTE FAVORITE)
IF MEN WERE ANGELS NO GOVERNMENT WOULD BE NECESSARY..... JAMES MADISON
STROKE OF THE PEN
LAW OF THE LAND.........
I'll be back........Arnold Schwartzneger
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Date: 4/12/2006 6:40:00 PM
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Author:
Crystal
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Subject:Union for Centers
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To all,
I would like to see a union form at least for small childcare business's. I work for a small center, I don't get paid very high but I love what I do. My problem is my place of employement has NO benefits. I recently got married to a wonderful man, but I lost my title 19 for my children ( from 1st marriage ). I've tried to do everything myself, my ex doesn't pay anything. I do need insurance for my children and myself if possible. The cheapest I could find will cost me $400 a month. Now me and my husband make enough to get by comfortably, but paying out of pocket like this is a hard hit. I've stayed where I'm at cuz my boss is going to sell me the business in a few years when she retires. This is an awesome opportunaty for me. Now I'm afraid I might have to let it go to find employement with insurance. If they do form a union I'm hoping it happens soon. Home child care I feel is in a different ranking with union issues, then what I'm looking at.
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Date: 3/5/2006 11:48:00 AM
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Author:
GI JO
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:Im Back.....................Where is everyone..............?
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Hello, All yep very busy. I guess we all are. I just wanted to incite EVERYONE, at this time.
News flash, New York will be the fourth state in the nation (after Illinois, Oregon and Iowa) to allow home day care providers to organize and bargain collectively.
Bill was introduced.
I wonder what happen to Rhode Island?
Now Minnesota, ladies, You know I like to get you guys started, Wouldn't it be better to be in it to win it?
Waiting for your passionate responses.
Sincerely submitted,
GI JO
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Date: 3/6/2006 5:11:00 AM
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Author:
Roni
(LtlRedHen3@aol.com)
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Subject:You have my sympathies. I prefer to win...
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You have my sympathies. I prefer to win own objectives, fair and square, not have someone else's agenda forced onto me and have to lie to get it. I wouldn't call those other states wins, considering the means used to gain recognition. I would rather not be associated with that, thank you very much.
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Date: 3/6/2006 7:38:00 AM
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Author:
corkie
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Subject:whats to win?
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Fact is, so many of the windmills your unions tilt at -- the "battles" home child care providers take issue with in some states -- the skirmishes were won here years ago, without a union.
Follow people that take the low road, tricking providers to think they'll get big changes, instant respect and money money money. That is your choice.
corkie in mn
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Date: 3/7/2006 6:38:00 PM
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Author:
GI JO
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:WELCOME.......LOL
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You guys do not disappoint just like I thought. PASSIONATE ..Now if you guys say that is the feel in MN,then it should be no problem getting a counter petiticion opting out, since everybody was betrayed in joining.
Or you can be filibusters. LOL
THE MN FILIBUSTERS...Catchy
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Date: 3/7/2006 6:40:00 PM
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Author:
GI JO
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:ARE THE UNIONS THAT STRONG?
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Are the unions that strong to convince so far four states that their is a need? To have thousands join if everything was so jim dandy.
Not saying that what you guys are saying does not have some truth. But something is obviously lacking. No, Corkie, we are not all brainless wimps, wanting instant gratification. Decieved by these evil entities.
Something is lacking and its statewide perhaps nationwide.
Explain that without saying that people do not stand up for themselves,and they want money money/
Heather. as a matter of fact gave me that impression thats all she cared about. What were they going to do for her?
If you guys have the answer share it.
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Date: 3/15/2006 6:09:00 AM
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Author:
GI JO
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE
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The Declaration of Independence states, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable RIGHTS, that among these are LIFE,LIBERTY and the pursuit of Happiness."
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Date: 3/29/2006 12:48:00 PM
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Author:
Narelle
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Subject:THANKYOU!
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A huge thankyou to my union (LHMU - qld Australia) who have been fighting for our long deservered pay rise (pay rise 's have also occured in other states). Yesterday all the staff at my centre were celebrating.
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Date: 3/29/2006 7:48:00 PM
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Author:
GI JO
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:congratulations!
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Congratulations, mate.
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Date: 4/12/2006 7:40:00 PM
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Author:
Roni
(LtlRedHen3@aol.com)
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Subject:insurance
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Crystal, I can certainly sympathize. The only way I can afford insurance is because Minnesota has a state healthcare plan with premiums depending on your income. I'm very lucky, I realize not everyone has that option. But let me ask you this - when you buy the business, will you be looking for someone to pay for your insurance then? There are very few small businesses that do offer it because it's so expensive and profits are so low. Certainly no business owners expect anyone else to subsidize their healthcare. I don't feel that childcare providers are any different. We open these businesses in our home, knowing full well that we're giving up subsidized healthcare. I think it's grossly unfair that some want to have their own business but someone else pay their benefits as well. We can't have it both ways.
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Date: 4/12/2006 9:27:00 PM
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Author:
GI JO
(gagadacare@aol.com)
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Subject:??????Crystal.......
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What ranking are you referring to for In home childcare providers? Please, clarify.
Thank you...
Gjo
P.s. Minnesota Ladies, I am going to be back with some news that may incite all of you! Looking forward to it,just been super busy. But I will be back...........
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Date: 6/12/2006 7:29:00 PM
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Author:
(corkie_@mn.com)
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Subject:News from New York
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GI Jo,
your New York Governor has vetoed a union for child care providers.
He states it would jeopardize a large amount of money for federal child care development grant money FOR providers.
What does this mean, and...
What is your next step?
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Date: 4/13/2006 6:51:00 AM
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Author:
Barb
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Subject:Health Care for Child Care
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Health Insurance for employees is very expensive. The plan we have for employees (and only for full time employees) is costing almost $600 a month per employee for a plan that does not cover as much as it used to. The center pays a percentage of the cost. I recently had blood work done, which was not covered, and I had to pay almost $300 out of pocket. The next time it is required by the doctor, I'm not going to have it done. Something needs to be done to make available reasonable health care for everyone, not just child care workers.
Some suggestions. Do you have an organization for child care workers in your state? Check it out to see if they have health insurance. Ours is through a Chamber of Commerce group. Have you contacted independent insurance agents to see what is available? Can you get together with other centers to investigate the options? A larger group has more buying power and may be able to get lower rates.
No matter what you find, it will be expensive!
If you are going to buy the business at some point in the future, you will be dealing with this issue for your employees. Now is the time to start checking out options.
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Date: 9/11/2006 12:35:00 PM
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Author:
Dotti
(Dottiditto@hotmail.com)
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Subject:unions
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I bagan teaching in California over 16 years ago. There was a movement then to form a childcare professionals union, but I don't think much came of it. I now reside in Florida and am a Director of a center. I would be interested in any information about a union here or a national union for childcare workers.
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Date: 11/29/2006 11:32:00 PM
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Author:
Sharmetta Johnson
(sharmettajohnson@yahoo.com)
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Subject:I AM SO HAPPY Raleigh North Carolina
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I am so happy to see that someone else feel the same way I do. I am currently an Early Childhood student. I love children and I am ready to join in on the union. We really dont deserve the rate of pay that we recieve. Its not fair we are more than just a daycare. We are a home away from home. I am willing to travel to be apart of this over due union
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Date: 8/21/2007 6:49:00 PM
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Author:
melissa
(allxstarxlissa@yahoo.com)
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Subject:So lets do something about this
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It seems that everyone is on the same page with at least some of the arguments posted by the first thread. Whether you think preschools and early childhood learning centers should be state subsidized or teachers of day cares should start a union, we all are in agreement that something has to change. I agree with much of what some of you have said about unions and their objectives vs. our own. So if we are to start our own workers-rights group, where should we begin? How many of you would be willing to step up and really be dedicated to this?
I think we have a really great thing going right now by openly discussing this topic so let’s keep it going. Any ideas, good, bad, or crazy for starting our own workers' rights group, let us know.
We need to stick together on this and stay strong.
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Date: 8/22/2007 9:41:00 AM
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Author:
bobbi
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Subject:why a union? (especially for non-degreed day care teachers)
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it is time. plain and simple. Many day care workers get such a pitiful check, the low pay subsidizes a mom to afford child care to go to work. (day care worker: a worker who cooks, cleans or performs child care giving activities in a full time facility. according to government definition! you are NOT a teacher!) so, by definition, you claim to 'teach' but are viewed on the same level as a cook or cleaning lady! think about that !! you are the hired help !!
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Date: 8/22/2007 9:51:00 AM
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Author:
bobbi
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Subject:why union, part 2
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Why unionize? Yes, cost of childcare would rise. However, look world wide. Jobs are lost in the USA due to finding the cheapest help (to increase profit, so consumers can afford the goods). Yes, you can blame unions high wages shoving jobs out of the USA, but could YOU afford to care for your family on the average pay of $23000 a year ?? Even if both mom and dad work? No, costs today are so high. And the goods are made oversees with non-union slave wages. So, why are our costs so high? We need a WORLD-WIDE solidarity effort. NAFTA and GATT were sold as a way to level the playing field. However, all it is doing is lowering our paychecks in the USA. Workers rights are being trampled on like never before. There is NO company loyalty. I disputed with a fellow co-worker on this point, who hated unions. She worked at the center from opening for 15 yrs. Ha ha, one day they shut the doors, cleared out the bank accounts, and failed to pay us for two weeks. (the owners went on a long-deserved vacation, in their words). Employees are disposable.
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Date: 9/18/2007 11:08:00 AM
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Author:
Linda Arocho
(HappyHands12302@aol.com)
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Subject:Not the total truth
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Corkie. A while back you said, "GI Jo, your New York Governor has vetoed a union for child care providers. He states it would jeopardize a large amount of money for federal child care development grant money FOR providers. What does this mean, and... What is your next step?"
Our next step was to bring it back to the House and they sent it through. NYS child care providers can Unionize.
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Date: 10/7/2007 9:39:00 AM
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