An important message for all active teacher members of the Facebook group Ohio STRS Member Only Forum (MOF) from Joe Lupo, founder

From Joe Lupo

March 16, 2022

When I started this forum on May 7, 2017, the catalyst was the freezing of COLA  by the STRS Board, I had no idea that this would be only the tip of the “STRS Iceberg” that has now been uncovered. Based on this, our focus changed months ago to include ALL concerns and issues impacting both active and retired teachers. It has been clearly documented that the actions of the past and current STRS Boards have negatively impacted ALL members.

The STRS Board’s actions impacting one group, cannot be separated by looking at one group as being more important than the other, or assuming that the impact of the actions taken by the Board will not directly or indirectly impact both actives and retirees. Let us not be fooled by the age old game of “Divide and Conquer” that OEA/STRS has used in the past and is currently engaged in today.

Based on what has been uncovered and what we know today, any half measure by the STRS Board to resolve COLA for retirees or less than acceptable; changes to retirement requirements for active members will not end our continued efforts for changes in STRS. These changes include but are not limited to necessary changes to the STRS Board representation/composition and an end to the past and current management philosophy that has put us where we find ourselves today.

Based on the aforementioned information, I have recommended to the Central Team the appointment of 5 new moderator spots be added to the MOF Central Team to represent the interests of ACTIVE STRS members. Please consider this communication an open invitation for all ACTIVE STRS members of this forum to contact me or any of the current moderators regarding their interest or any questions regarding the requirements of the position. It is our intent to fill these positions before our 5 year anniversary on May 7, 2022 and to have a full compliment of MOF member representation as we continue to move forward with our mission.

In closing, I want to thank all MOF members on behalf of your Central Team for your unwavering and continued support and participation. Together we can accomplish more by standing together and fighting for what is best for ALL STRS members.