WOEA 2026 Fall Forum Sessions
1. Can We Talk? Moving Beyond the Call-Out
Presenters: Janaya Foster, Columbus Education Association Taraja Shepherd Allen, Ohio Education Association
Session Description: Educators and ESP members are on the front lines of dialogue—whether in classrooms, staff meetings, or community spaces. This session offers practical tools to move beyond reactive “calling out” toward intentional “calling in” and empowering “calling on.” Participants will learn how to shift from confrontation to connection by building trust, addressing bias, and fostering equity. Walk away with strategies to support brave spaces for listening, learning, and leading real change in our school communities
2. Code of Conduct: Only Bad People Get in Trouble... Right?
Presenter: Ellen Ardonetto, OEA Education Policy and Practice
Session Description: Unfortunately, because the above statement is not true, this presentation continues to be a constant request across the state. All educational employees need to be aware of the expectations and how they can affect employment and the ability to be licensed, certified and/or issued a permit. New to this presentation this year, a new tip sheet for coaches from the State Board of Education and the High School Athletic Association (OHSAA), and recent legislative additions to the absolute ban list. Content will also address the recent announcement from the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (ODEW) regarding testing investigations.
3. I am a Building Rep-Now What?
Presenter: Dr. Jasmine Williams-Holston, OEA Labor Relations Consultant, Region 4
Session Description: Being a Building Representative is more than just putting information on the school bulletin board or helping members find information in their contracts. At the end of this session, you will be a trained Building Association Representative so that you can assist and advocate for your fellow members while supporting your association leadership in this process. We will briefly cover what to do when a member is called into a meeting and other ways to support your colleagues and members. Because of time constraints, grievance processing will not be covered.
4. OEA Grant Writing Workshop
Presenters: Rob McFee, OEA Secretary-Treasurer and Cristina Munoz Nedrow, OEA Region 4 Director
Session Description: Maximize your chances of winning grants. Learn successful grant writing skills. Find sources for your local. OEA provides various grants for members, including educational grants and wellness grants.
5. Presidential Roundtable
Presenters: Mary Hunnewell, WOEA President; Mindy Campbell, Bethel Education Association President; Kimberly Barnhart, Huber Heights Education Association President; Brenda Abels, Huber Heights Education Association Vice President
Session Description: The Local Presidents' Roundtable provides space for local union Presidents to build meaningful professional connections, and share actionable best practices. Designed specifically for leadership at the local level, this roundtable offers an opportunity for officers to come together to discuss the key issues directly impacting their local associations, exchange proven strategies, and navigate shared operational challenges in an open, collaborative setting.
6. Restraints and Seclusion
Presenter: Daria DeNoia, OEA Education Policy and Practice Consultant, M.Ed., NBCT
7. SERS The 4 Big Decisions at Retirement
Presenter: Cameron Vaughn, Member Education Coordinator, School Employees Retirement System of Ohio
Session Description:
When?
Plan of Payment?
PLOP?
Health Care?
8. World Café
Presenter: Jess Atilli, Labor Relations Consultant, Region 4 OEA Education Association
Session Description: Know the ins and outs of the World Cafe’. It’s a great bargaining tool that unifies your members with one strong message. This tool will prepare you for bargaining and assist with bringing true emotion needed to get a solid contract.