Teachers' Roles Urged In Politics.

Teachfrs - In - Politics Weekend, slated to be observed nationally tomorrow through Sunday, is not going unnoticed in Ann Arbor. The president and executive secretary of the Ann Arbor Teachers' Association have is,sued statements urging local teachers to become politically active and aware. The purpose of the weekend, which is sponsored by the National Education Association, is to increase the understanding of teachers regarding the need for them to take part in political raatters, inspire them to become involved, and inform the public of the new political awareness and involvement of teachers. Special projects and meetings are planned in all 50 states in observance of Teachers-In-Politics Weekend. AATA Executive Secretary Jim Scheu commented about teachers and politics: "The increasing participaron of teach-f ers in political activity has been most gratifying to see. In recent years, teachers have been sitting down at the bargaining table to negotiate for improved programs, working conditions and salaries. "Their effëctïvënësrUd Scheu continued, "is in direct ratio to their participation and effectiveness in the politicalj ;arena. It is therefore my hope that the political awareness, activity and participation of the teaching profession will continue to increase until its real capacity as a political force to ibe reckoned with is achieved." I AATA President Donald Newsted added the following statejnent: "Many decisions which affect our lives are politically motivated. This is not bad, but in f act is good if these decisions are arrived at through the democratie process. This democratie process requires participation by all adult citizens in :the firm of personal service, monetary commitment and expression of choice at the ballot box. ; "Unfortunately, many decisión? are made by our leaders which reflect the wishes of a ismall minority of their constituents. Why? Citizen apathy is the reason. The American people ;have a long tradition of rising to meet the challenge of a crisis period. Today, we are faced with one crisis after another at ;all levéis and forms of government. At the same time, we are witnessing an increased interestl in politics by many citizens of , ;all ages, including a large j ■ber of teachers. "Politicians deal with people ;and policies that affect people. Teachers are trained to do ,'exactly that. There are many ■teachers in the teaching I Ision who have the knowledge, I talent, interest and dedication I to enter the political arena and I make a positive contribution to I 'qur democratie process. 1 ffore, I urge all teachers to 1 ticipate to the fullest extent in I the political decisions of ourl yorld community in the I ing years."