Ohio Federation of Teachers president dies of heart attack

12/4/2006

Tom Mooney, 52, the president of the Ohio Federation of Teachers for six years, died yesterday of an apparent heart attack at his Columbus home, a federation spokesperson said.

The Ohio Federation of Teachers represents more than 20,000 teachers in public schools, higher education faculty and support staff.

Before joining the OFT, Mr. Mooney spent 21 years as president of the Cincinnati Federation of Teachers. He was a vocal critic of using public money for private school vouchers and also pushed for tougher standards for publicly funded, privately run charter schools.

Tom was such a passionate supporter of improving public education, OFT spokesman Lisa Zellner said. He was a longtime champion of greater accountability for charter schools and enhancing resources for teachers and students.

Funeral arrangements were not finalized this morning.

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