Teacher Shown Little Care

In August, 1988, I suffered a heart attack which necessitated a quadruple bypass operation. By February of 1989, after a long and painful recuperation, I was back in a classroom of the Somis Union School District. After a physically difficult spring semester and at the urging of my doctors, I requested a leave of absence effective June of 1989.

During this leave, I was examined by state of California insurance doctors and deemed unable to return to my lifelong work of classroom teaching. After 24 years of service and dedication to the Somis Union School District, I tendered my resignation as of April, 1990.

In the past, retirees from Somis Union School District have had all benefits paid until the retiree reaches the age where Medicare was available, the only stipulation being that the employee had served the minimum of 20 years in the Somis Union School District. I was verbally assured that I qualified on this condition. Being only 57 years old, it is eight years before I will be eligible for Medicare.

Living on half salary is not easy, but I always felt confident that I would at least have full medical benefits. I have just been informed by the board of trustees that the district will pay only $1,500 toward insurance under their plan. I cannot use the money toward a plan I can afford.

Not only that, the Somis Union School District has asked that I reimburse the balance I have used over $1,500 for this past school year. This is going to create a great financial hardship as my medication costs approximately $150 a month, let alone the added cost of $390 a month for medical insurance. As of the first of June, 1992, I am without insurance and most likely, uninsurable.

I hope when it comes to reelection of the present board of trustees, the citizens of Somis will keep in mind the shabby treatment of former Somis Union School District employees and vote appropriately.

ANNALEE DAVIS-HALLOWELL

Camarillo