AFT Healthcare-Maryland convened a member meeting on Saturday, December 2, 2017 in Woodlawn, MD. President Debra Perry gave a state of the union address updating members on a number of topics including growth in membership and updates on contract negotiations. Beyond pertinent union information, there were also a number of key presentations that informed members on a myriad of topics.

Sara Markle-Elder from the American Federation of Teachers was on hand to give a presentation about the dangers of fentanyl exposure. This issue is relevant nationwide but particularly useful to Marylanders

Gerri Bohanan, AFT-Maryland Higher Education Area Vice President, was honored at the 45th Annual National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE) Conference with the Living Legend Award.

Bohanan’s work in Baltimore city and particularly at Coppin State University has garnered her a number of accolades over the years. She’s been an active and committed member of the Baltimore Teachers Union in addition to her participation in NABSE and her work on the executive board of the AFT-Maryland.

The entire federation takes great pride in congratulating Ms. Bohanan on her award and thanks her for her

The Baltimore Teachers Union participated in the Mayor’s annual holiday parade. President Marietta English was driven in a car by her husband Mr. Raymond English with BTU members and staff walking along the parade route. The annual event down 34th street in Hampden is a tradition that brings the entire city together and heightens anticipation for the winter holiday season.

BTU was excited to participate in the event and was grateful to members and citizens alike who came out and waved, cheered, and enjoyed the festivities of the holiday celebration.

For more photos, visit the Baltimore Teachers

The Chair of the Kirwan Commission announced that he does not expect final recommendations from the Commission until after the 2018 session. However, there are still at least 3 commission meetings before the session begins, and the commission will issue at least a preliminary report to the 2018 state legislature. We are still hoping to push for our priorities on equitable and effective funding *this coming session*.

Additionally, the commission is considering some state-wide policy recommendations, from more CTE offerings, to expanding pre-k to 3 and 4 year olds in poverty, and a whole host of