Keep up-to-date with the latest newsletter from ORTA. In this issue, you will find:
Updates from ORTA President
Updates from ORTA Executive Director, Robin Rayfield
STRS news and updates
New Employment Opportunities
Discounted Tickets
Member benefits, renewal information, membership cards, etc.
STRS News
STRS News
There seems to be some movement at STRS related to our COLA. Several options were discussed, in depth, January 27th at a special meeting of the STRS board. The basic ‘concepts’ that have emerged include:
Providing a one-time COLA of 2% to retirees. This increase would be provided to each eligible retiree and would remain in effect each year. To be clear, each retiree would receive a 2% increase (on their base retirement) for the remainder of their life. That 2% increase would be a one-time increase.
Reducing the contribution rate paid by active teachers. Currently our active teachers pay the highest rate of contributions in the nation. Their contribution rate is higher than the value of their pension.
Reducing the ‘age requirement’ for full benefits. Maybe allowing full retirement after 35 years of service.
I am of the opinion that the hard work and advocacy done by ORTA, and members of the Facebook groups have had an impact on this issue. Between the forensic audit, the special audit by the auditor of state, the recent activity on ORTA’s YouTube channel, and ORTA’s work with legislators in Ohio, STRS has determined that some form of COLA is in order. Is it a coincidence that STRS is thinking about a COLA and reducing the burden on actives at the same time as STRS Trustees stand for election?
Additional News:
ORTA has a new travel partner, Overseas Adventure Travel. More than 500 groups, like ORTA, travel with Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T.) each year because they are the leader in international travel for mature Americans and solo travelers. ORTA members will also enjoy their small groups, experienced trip leaders, flexible itineraries, and reasonable prices. Not to mention one-third of O.A.T. travelers are retired educators, what a perfect fit!
ORTA Night with the Cleveland Cavaliers!
The Cleveland Cavaliers welcome all members, family, and friends of the Ohio Retired Teacher's Association to our season finale vs. the Milwaukee Bucks on April 10th, 2022! Discounted tickets can be found below and will be sold at a first-come, first-served basis... NOTE: Seats in C119-C112 include a $15 credit value for food and beverage at FanFuel concession stands!
Employment:
ORTA receives opportunities from employers and organizations seeking retirees for paid and volunteer positions to share with our membership. If interested, contact the number(s) listed.
LifeLong Learning – Several positions for full time and part-time teachers. Flex positions in East Cleveland area.
Contact Ivan Vazquez: (323) 326-9845
ACT Test Prep – Part-time during evenings and Saturdays.
Contact Laura Lcardi (330) 722-7235
Empowerment Project – Seeks retired middle school and high school teachers in Wood County.
Contact Judy Steiner (419) 354- 9010
Driver’s Education - Part-time position.
Contact Kim Swank kswank@aaaohio.com
Newsletter Viewing:
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https://www.orta.org/so/72Ny8H1h_?languageTag=en&cid=f406a17c-b4d3-407a-af6b-2701a0934bb7#/main
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