The most bizarre passage of the update, and one that reveals an interesting insight into the thinking of the union leadership, reads:

Rumor that the Adm would start by using the 'Al Quaida' (sic) method of firing 25 teacher 'hostages' at a time until they get their way. This is why we cannot let adm. go after us a few at a time. If we go out, we ALL have to go out. Collective Bargaining as a method of gaining rights for teachers would no longer exist in the state of Michigan if we do not remain united in these efforts. Terrorists can only win if we capitulate to them.

According to the e-mail, MEA Uniserv director Evelyn Baran made the remark at a September 17 meeting of the Governing Board of the Wayne-Westland union.

While we have not studied the methodology of al-Qaeda as much as Ms. Baran apparently has, the comparison is outrageous and pathetic.  If is it truly how this union employee views school district officials, the good hard working teachers of the district should consider whether paying Ms. Baran $122,477 a year to spout such rhetoric is really beneficial for their cause.  A clear analogy between "terrorists" and the district administration is made and is deplorable.

A recommendation to union members came from Wayne-Westland president Nancy Strachan:

A schedule of Union Activities will be emailed to Staff soon. Voluntary activities are discouraged at this point. Riders, coaching, etc must be honored, but 'Voluntary' (ie. non paid) activities should NOT be attended or supported.

It is unfortunate union leaders penalize the students because of the conflict over a contract for employees.  It seems to run contrary to the notion that they "put kids first."

EAG will continue to educate the community on the situation and hold union leaders accountable.