Bailout brings return of educators' tax break

The Wall Street bailout package signed into law earlier this month has one direct pocketbook benefit for teachers and other educators. It restores the federal tax deduction for classroom supplies that you purchase out of pocket.

Under the law, you can deduct up to $250 a year for the unreimbursed cost of such items as books and software supplies.

The deduction applies to K-12 teachers, instructors, counselors, principals and aides who worked at least 900 hours during the school year.

Even if you don't itemize deductions, you're still eligible for this one, which expired in December and has been extended through 2009.

Fellowships available to math, science teachers

The Knowles Science Teaching Foundation, a national advocate for improving the quality of science and mathematics education, is accepting applications for 2009 KSTF Teaching Fellowships.

The fellowship is valued at nearly $150,000 over five years to support aspiring teachers of promise as they embark on careers teaching high school science and mathematics.

It is designed to expose recipients to a variety of teaching resources, new curriculum materials, and research and experts in the field.

Applications are available at www.kstf.org. Deadline for entries is Jan. 14.

Ads stress importance of parent-teacher meetings

Have you heard a school bell sound as children's laughter rings out over the radio airwaves? Keep listening for NYSUT President Dick Iannuzzi's public service announcement airing on radio stations and select radio Web sites statewide.

The message reminds parents and caregivers of the importance of actively participating in parent- teacher conferences.

In his message, Iannuzzi urges parents to plan ahead to be available on conference days to meet with their child's teacher.

He also encourages employers to make it as easy as possible for parents to do so and asks teachers to be flexible in scheduling meetings to accommodate parents with tight work schedules.