Ryan Holderman's letter to the editor, published in several newspapers

(Received here April 7, 2006)

IMPORTANT TEACHERS' RETIREMENT SYSTEM ELECTION PENDING

In May of 2003 Dr. Dennis Leone called attention to irregularities in the way the State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio was handling teachers' retirement funds. His report was the catalyst for a strong reform movement which resulted in the passage of Senate Bill 133 and the re-structuring of the STRS Board. All of this has resulted in greater fiscal responsibility and security in the management of pension funds for Ohio's teachers.

This week ballots will be sent to all active, inactive, and disability constituents of the STRS. They will be voting to select two "active" teacher representatives for seats on the STRS Board of Directors. Two gentlemen, Dr. Tom Hall of Miami University and Mr. Mark Fredrick who teaches in the Cleveland Public schools are seeking board seats. They both understand the challenges facing the STRS. They understand the need for continued reform, open dialogue, and due diligence on the part of those who are elected as STRS Board members.

Additional background information, including a history of the reform movement that has led to significant changes in the STRS can be found at www.concernedohio.org

Please note that this is a .org address.

I urge all teachers who are concerned about the future of their pension system to vote for Dr. Tom Hall and Mr. Mark Fredrick.

Ryan Holderman
Lebanon, OH