Educator Health Insurance

posted by: Alix | August 23, 2013, 02:35 PM

The following letter was sent to ASTA members August 22, 2013:

Dear Members,

We have been hearing from members across the state who are concerned with the rising cost of health care. As many of you know, Arkansas's education employee health care costs are set to increase by as much as 50% in the coming months.

We know many of our members are struggling to afford health care. In an effort to better serve you, we have compiled an ASTA membership survey on the issue. According to member testimonials, some educators have seen their take-home pay slashed by these changes.

The fact is, this issue is quickly becoming a recruiting and retention concern for our schools. In order to attract the best and brightest to the classroom, we must create a system that meets the basic needs of education employees. We cannot expect educators to forgo basic necessities when other state employees are not asked to make the same sacrifices.

In speaking with teachers, administrators, and policymakers, it is evident that current Arkansas law must be adjusted for the sake of our teacher workforce. We must take into account an equitable and reliable funding stream and options that make sense for a diverse set of households.

If you have any questions or wish to voice your opinion, email ASTA today. We look forward to your feedback as we discuss this issue with policy makers and elected officials.

It's a pleasure serving Arkansas' hardworking educators!

Best regards,

Dr. Michele Ballentine-Linch
Executive Director
ASTA

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