Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper testified in support of Senate Bill 335, legislative changes for Cleveland's public schools aimed at raising student achievement. The Ohio Federation of Teachers wholeheartedly supports the reforms for Cleveland's public schools as recommended by the Cleveland teachers.

Tell us your story: We want to hear what doubling the interest rate on student loans would mean for you or your family, or for the people you educate and serve. Post a comment and add to the discussion.

A petition drive seeks to place an issue on the ballot to fix the way state and federal legislative district boundaries are drawn. The new method would take the power away from politicians and put it on the hands of the people. Help gather signatures.

Make plans now to participate in summer workshops to expand union leadership skills at the 2012 Bill Pasztor Union Leadership Institute. The conference will be held June 25-27 at the Mohican Lodge and Conference Center near Mansfield. Get discounted rates by registering by May 25.

May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. To help teachers celebrate the event in their classrooms, AFT highlights a variety of online resources. It began in 1978 as a celebration of history and culture. Congress chose the month of May for two reasons: May 7, 1843, was the arrival in the United States of the first Japanese immigrants and May 10, 1869, marked the completion of the transcontinental railroad.

Across the country, students and teachers are sharing stories, joining together and taking action to create safe schools, free from stereotypes, intolerance, and hate. They’re part of a movement called Not In Our School, inspiring students of all ages to develop and share innovative ways to resist bullying and promote an atmosphere of acceptance and inclusion. Visit Not in Our School for lesson ideas, videos and teacher tips. See AFT's resources to fight bullying.