March 2016

Dear State Delegate:

Congratulations on your election as a state delegate to the 2016 NEA RA in Washington, D.C.! I am looking forward to seeing you at this year’s conventionbeing held from July 2-7 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center where you will be joining some 8,000 of your colleagues representing state and local affiliates, student members, and retired members from across the country.

State Delegate Requirements

  1. Attendance: As a state delegate, you are funded by MSEA. We want you to be able to make informed decisions, therefore MSEA requires that you attend all Maryland delegation caucus meetings, all NEA RA sessions, vote in all NEA Elections at the RA, and stay in the Maryland Delegation seating area during all business sessions.
  2. Hotel: MSEA must block rooms a year in advance and is financially responsible for the rooms in the block. State delegates must stay in the Maryland delegation hotel in order to qualify for hotel expense funding. This year, the Maryland delegation is housed at the Washington Marriott-Georgetown, which is located about 1.6 miles from the convention center; it is a shuttle hotel. Delegates must make their hotel reservation by clicking here. Attached are FAQs for the hotel.
  3. MSEA Policy for State Delegates: Please read the attached policy.
  4. Expenses: MSEA uses the IRS per diem, therefore receipts are not required for meals and incidentals (this includes tips). Receipts are required for: parking and public transportation (should you travel to D.C. via metro, MARC train, or bus),and hotel. All expense reports must be completed and returned to MSEA by August 8, 2016. Failure to return an expense report or remit payment of undocumented funds will result in the issuing of a 1099. If MSEA has to issue a 1099, you will not be eligible for prefunding the next time you are elected as a state delegate.

FAQ

  1. When will I get my stipend check?

Your stipend check will be issued after you have registered at the hotel. The amount of the check is determined based on the number of nights you are staying in Washington, D.C. Please keep in mind that the hotel stipend is for double occupancy and you are responsible for finding a roommate. If you are having trouble finding a roommate, you should work with your local president to coordinate with other delegates in your local.

  1. Where do I access information about the NEA RA 2016 in Washington, D.C.?

MSEA will again be going paperless at the NEA Convention. If you do not receive the electronic invite to register by April 10, please make sure to send your updatedpreferred email address to Maura Taylor. This will be the same email to which NEA will send materials and information. If you do not have internet access, please contact Maura Taylor at or 443/433-3675.

  1. Will there be an orientation for state delegates?

There will be an orientation for state delegates. Information is forthcoming.

  1. How do I register for the NEA RA 2016 in Washington, D.C.?

All delegates will register with NEA at the RA July 2-7.Delegates will receive information and materials directly from NEA in June.

  1. How can I get involved while I am at the NEA RA 2016 in Washington, D.C.?

You can join one of our committees: New Business Items, Elections, Bylaws and Rules, NEA Budget, Resolutions, Office, and Fund for Children and Public Education. You can sign-up via the registration process. You can also become a state contact. Information about the state contact auction will be posted to the Maryland NEA RA website when it becomes available. Committee descriptions are posted on the website.

IMPORTANT: Attached is a State Delegate Credential Form. This form must be returned to Maura Taylor at MSEA by April 10. Failure to turn in the form by April 10 will result in your state delegate position being filled by a successor.

Being a state delegate is an important responsibility and a wonderful opportunity to be part of the world’s largest democratic deliberative assembly. By running as a state delegate, you have demonstrated your desire to be a leader in your association. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Maura Taylor at or 443/433-3675.

Thank you for all you do each and every day.

Sincerely,

Betty Weller

President