How one educator inspired his student to teach - INSIDE NextGen NYSUT Welcomes new members to our union
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www.nysut.org | September/October 2019
INSIDE
NextGen NYSUT Why’s an art
Welcomes new members teacher suing
to our union | 4 Betsy DeVos? | 16
Overheated no more
Union action leads to cooler
heads prevailing | 20
How one educator
inspired his student to teach
NYSUT UNITED [ September/October 2019, Vol. 10, No. 1 ]
CONTENTS
Director of Communications: Damien LaVera NYSUT United is a member publication of the Address Changes: POSTMASTER:
AFT Communicators Network, International Member Records Department
5: Union-backed bills signed
Lead Editor/Copy Desk Chief: Clarisse Butler Banks
Labor Communications Association, Metro 800 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, NY 12110
Assistant Editors/Writers:
New York Labor Communications Council,
into law this summer Liza Frenette, Ned Hoskin, Sylvia Saunders,
State Education Association Communicators.
PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT LATHAM, NY
Kara E. Smith, Matt Smith, Andrew Watson ADDITIONAL ENTRY OFFICE
Editorial and Production Department: WILLIAMSPORT, PA 17701
Photo Editor: J. El-Wise Noisette
518-213-6000 and 800-342-9810 (toll-free) NYSUT United (ISSN 21587914) and
Lead Designer: Nicole Clayton
7: Labor mourns passing of Art and Production: Dana Fournier
Annual subscription: $15. NYSUT members receive
a copy of NYSUT United as part of their dues benefit.
www.nysut.org are official publications of New York
State United Teachers. NYSUT United is published from
Hector Figueroa Advertising: Lori DiVeglia Households with multiple members will receive only September to June.
Online Communications Coordinator: Bryan Thomas one copy. If you do wish to receive more than one copy, Advertising: Email Lori DiVeglia at ldivegli@nysutmail.
11: UFTer Melissa Salguero Editorial Support: Julie Malec please call 518-213-6000, ext. 6234. org or call 518-213-6000, ext. 6264 or 800-448-4ADS.
Contributor: James Morrison
teaches kindness from the
Middle C NYSUT Affiliated with AFT n NEA n AFL-CIO
NEW YORK STATE UNITED TEACHERS AT-LARGE DIRECTORS:
13: Our SRPs — Patti Paratore, 800 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, NY 12110 Cheryl Hughes, Joseph Cantafio, Rick Gallant, John Kozlowski, Kevin Ahern, Don
518-213-6000 n 800-342-9810 Carlisto, Maria Pacheco, Raymond Hodges, Pat Puleo, Selina Durio, Ronald Verderber,
Half Hollow Hills AOP Wayne White, Debra Penny, Howard Schoor, Analia Gerard, Thomas Brown, Janella
OFFICERS:
President: Andy Pallotta Hinds, Sterling Roberson, Barbara Bowen, Frederick Kowal, Florence McCue, Shelvy
Executive Vice President: Jolene T. DiBrango Y. Abrams (SRPs), Sandra Carner-Shafran (SRPs), Karen Lee Arthmann (SRPs),
19: NYSUT journal tackles Second Vice President: Paul Pecorale
Secretary-Treasurer: J. Philippe Abraham
Deborah Paulin (SRPs), Angie Rivera (SRPs), Anne Goldman (Health Care), Stephen
Rechner (Private Sector Higher Ed), Andrew Sako (Community Colleges), Pamela
culturally responsive Malone (Higher Education) and Michael Fabricant (Higher Education)
ELECTION DISTRICT DIRECTORS:
teaching Peter Stuhlmiller, Michelle Licht, Joseph J. Najuch, Adam Urbanski, Andrew Jordan, EX-OFFICIO BOARD MEMBER:
Melinda Person, Executive Director/NYSUT Political Director
Michael Emmi, David Derouchie, Jeanette Stapley, Anthony McCann, Joseph
HONORARY BOARD MEMBERS:
21: Members, locals break out Herringshaw, Stacey Caruso-Sharpe, Kathleen Taylor, Sparrow Tobin, Sean Kennedy,
Jeffrey Yonkers, Tomia Smith, Barbara Hafner, Christine Vasilev, John Mansfield, Kevin
Antonia Cortese (Emerita), Thomas Y. Hobart Jr. (President Emeritus),
their pink and raise funds Alan B. Lubin (Executive Vice President Emeritus)
Coyne, Nancy Sanders, Laura Spencer, Karen Blackwell Alford, Dwayne Clark, Evelyn
DeJesus, Amy Arundell, MaryJo Ginese, Mary Atkinson, Anthony Harmon, Michael AFT VICE PRESIDENTS:
for cancer research Mulgrew, Elizabeth Perez, Cassie Prugh, Richard Mantell, LeRoy Barr, Iris DeLutro
J. Philippe Abraham, Shelvy Y. Abrams, Barbara Bowen, Don Carlisto,
Evelyn DeJesus, Jolene T. DiBrango, Anthony M. Harmon, Frederick Kowal,
(City & Private Higher Ed), Steven London (City & Private Higher Ed), Roberta Elins
29: Human Rights Institute is (Community Colleges), Jamie Dangler (State Higher Ed, UUP), Rowena Blackman-
Michael Mulgrew, Andy Pallotta, Paul Pecorale, Adam Urbanski
NEA DIRECTORS:
Stroud (State Higher Ed, UUP), Thomas Tucker (State Higher Ed, UUP), Philip Rumore,
helping teens change their Paul Davis, Dora Leland, Loretta Donlon (Retiree), Rosemary Catanzariti (Retiree),
Serena Kotch, Thomas McMahon
Alternate Directors: Sue Raichilson, Dora Leland
world Thomas Murphy (Retiree)
Executive Committee members are underlined.
Breakfast After the Bell:
Start smart. Finish smarter.
The first generation of
Breakfast After the Bell students
have successfully navigated from
kindergarten through 12th grade.
Bring Breakfast After the Bell
to your school today!
Her future looks bright!
breakfasteveryday.org
©2017 ADANE
ADA-2112 BAB Educator 9.7x5.1_NYSUT.indd 1 12/12/17 3:28 PM
2| September/October 2019 Official Publication of NYSUT
CONTENTS NYSUT UNITED [ September/October 2019, Vol. 10, No. 1 ]
Director of Communications: Damien LaVera NYSUT United is a member publication of the AFT Address Changes: POSTMASTER:
Lead Editor/Copy Desk Chief: Clarisse Butler Banks Communicators Network, International Labor New York Teacher, 52 Broadway,
5: Busy summer as union- Assistant Editors/Writers: Communications Association, Metro New York Labor
Communications Council, State Education Association
12th floor, New York, NY 10004
Liza Frenette, Ned Hoskin, Sylvia Saunders, PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT NEW YORK, NY
backed bills signed into Kara E. Smith, Matt Smith, Andrew Watson Communicators. ADDITIONAL ENTRY OFFICE
law Photo Editor: J. El-Wise Noisette Editorial and Production Department: WILLIAMSPORT, PA 17701
Lead Designer: Nicole Clayton 518-213-6000 and 800-342-9810 (toll-free) New York Teacher/City Edition (ISSN 1074-0503) is
Annual subscription: $15. NYSUT members receive
7: Labor mourns passing of Art and Production: Dana Fournier
Advertising: Lori DiVeglia
a copy of NYSUT United as part of their dues benefit.
an official publication of the United Federation of
Teachers. United Federation of Teachers, 52 Broadway,
Hector Figueroa Households with multiple members will receive only one New York, New York 10004. Published monthly.
Online Communications copy. If you do wish to receive more than one
Coordinator: Bryan Thomas NYSUT United is published from September to June.
copy, please call 518-213-6000, ext. 6234.
11: UFTer Melissa Salguero Editorial Support: Julie Malec Advertising: Email Lori DiVeglia at ldivegli@nysutmail.
org or call 518-213-6000, ext. 6264 or 800-448-4ADS.
teaches kindness from the
Middle C NYSUT Affiliated with AFT n NEA n AFL-CIO
NEW YORK STATE UNITED TEACHERS AT-LARGE DIRECTORS:
13: Our SRPs — Patti Paratore, 800 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, NY 12110 Cheryl Hughes, Joseph Cantafio, Rick Gallant, John Kozlowski, Kevin Ahern, Don
Half Hollow Hills AOP 518-213-6000 n 800-342-9810 Carlisto, Maria Pacheco, Raymond Hodges, Pat Puleo, Selina Durio, Ronald Verderber,
OFFICERS: Wayne White, Debra Penny, Howard Schoor, Analia Gerard, Thomas Brown, Janella
President: Andy Pallotta Hinds, Sterling Roberson, Barbara Bowen, Frederick Kowal, Florence McCue, Shelvy
Executive Vice President: Jolene T. DiBrango Y. Abrams (SRPs), Sandra Carner-Shafran (SRPs), Karen Lee Arthmann (SRPs),
19: NYSUT journal tackles Second Vice President: Paul Pecorale
Secretary-Treasurer: J. Philippe Abraham
Deborah Paulin (SRPs), Angie Rivera (SRPs), Anne Goldman (Health Care), Stephen
Rechner (Private Sector Higher Ed), Andrew Sako (Community Colleges), Pamela
culturally responsive Malone (Higher Education) and Michael Fabricant (Higher Education)
ELECTION DISTRICT DIRECTORS:
teaching Peter Stuhlmiller, Michelle Licht, Joseph J. Najuch, Adam Urbanski, Andrew Jordan, EX-OFFICIO BOARD MEMBER:
Melinda Person, Executive Director/NYSUT Political Director
Michael Emmi, David Derouchie, Jeanette Stapley, Anthony McCann, Joseph
21: Members, locals break out Herringshaw, Stacey Caruso-Sharpe, Kathleen Taylor, Sparrow Tobin, Sean Kennedy, HONORARY BOARD MEMBERS:
Antonia Cortese (Emerita), Thomas Y. Hobart Jr. (President Emeritus),
Jeffrey Yonkers, Tomia Smith, Barbara Hafner, Christine Vasilev, John Mansfield, Kevin
their pink and raise funds Coyne, Nancy Sanders, Laura Spencer, Karen Blackwell Alford, Dwayne Clark, Evelyn
Alan B. Lubin (Executive Vice President Emeritus)
DeJesus, Amy Arundell, MaryJo Ginese, Mary Atkinson, Anthony Harmon, Michael AFT VICE PRESIDENTS:
for cancer research J. Philippe Abraham, Shelvy Y. Abrams, Barbara Bowen, Don Carlisto,
Mulgrew, Elizabeth Perez, Cassie Prugh, Richard Mantell, LeRoy Barr, Iris DeLutro
Evelyn DeJesus, Jolene T. DiBrango, Anthony M. Harmon, Frederick Kowal,
(City & Private Higher Ed), Steven London (City & Private Higher Ed), Roberta Elins
29: Human Rights Institute is (Community Colleges), Jamie Dangler (State Higher Ed, UUP), Rowena Blackman-
Michael Mulgrew, Andy Pallotta, Paul Pecorale, Adam Urbanski
NEA DIRECTORS:
helping teens change their Stroud (State Higher Ed, UUP), Thomas Tucker (State Higher Ed, UUP), Philip Rumore,
Serena Kotch, Thomas McMahon
Paul Davis, Dora Leland, Loretta Donlon (Retiree), Rosemary Catanzariti (Retiree),
world Alternate Directors: Sue Raichilson, Dora Leland
Thomas Murphy (Retiree)
Executive Committee members are underlined.
Breakfast After the Bell:
Start smart. Finish smarter.
The first generation of
Breakfast After the Bell students
have successfully navigated from
kindergarten through 12th grade.
Bring Breakfast After the Bell
to your school today!
Her future looks bright!
breakfasteveryday.org
©2017 ADANE
ADA-2112 BAB Educator 9.7x5.1_NYSUT.indd 1 12/12/17 3:28 PM
2| September/October 2019 Official Publication of NYSUT
[ FIGHTING FOR YOU ]
Union, community unite to protect COMING UP
public education Sept. 20–21
NYSUT Board of Directors meets,
By Matt Smith The moves also posed a threat to With the involuntary transfers Latham
msmith@nysutmail.org the education of New Paltz students, touching all four buildings in the
especially the district’s youngest district, the New Paltz UT sprang into Oct 4–6
T
ones. action. Building reps worked with SRP Leadership Conference,
his is a story about the value
Chiger said teachers who spent teachers in each school, enabling Saratoga Springs
of union membership —
about solidarity, mobilization up to two decades in early child- the union to gather information and
and the power of collective voice. hood education were being sent coordinate. And, as teachers articu- Oct. 11
And about what happens when a to teach high school for the first lated the potential harm to students, Deadline to register to vote for the
school community — edu- parents and other commu- Nov. 5 general elections
cators working with par- nity stakeholders joined in
ents — comes together to opposition to the plan. Oct. 12–27
protect public education. When the school board Making Strides
“There’s a sense of pow- met in June, educators Against Breast Cancer
er and exhilaration know- and community members walks take place at
ing that when we stand packed the room, with locations across the
up and show up, we can more than 30 people state. See page 21
hold our administrators speaking during the public for details.
accountable and impact comment period.
change during some truly Emotions ran high that Oct. 24–25
challenging times,” said evening; the passion was ED 51–53 Retiree Contiguous
New Paltz United Teachers tangible. Meeting, Albany
President Arielle Chiger. Ultimately, the board
offered a resolution to re-
At the end of last school Nov. 8–10
year, New Paltz Central scind the transfers. All but
Community College Conference,
School administrators an- two have been reversed,
Cooperstown
nounced the involuntary and the third position cut
transfer of 12 teachers. has been restored.
Meanwhile, at the
Nov. 5
They also cut a third posi-
board’s request, the local Election Day
tion without board of edu-
cation approval — after and district have entered
voters approved a budget into mediation. Nov. 15–16
Chiger said she was NYSUT Women’s
that included only two job PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NEW PALTZ TIMES
Educators and community members protest a decision by New Paltz administra- proud of her members. Committee meets,
cuts. Teachers were noti-
tors to target longtime teachers — and vocal unionists — for involuntary transfer. “The message sent (by Latham
fied about the moves by a
note in their mailboxes. administrators) — espe-
Not only were the transfers forced, time. Additionally, teaching partner- cially to newer teachers — was: ‘If
they targeted union activists. ships that existed for years would you speak up, you will be punished.’
The reason, Chiger believes, had have been torn apart. It’s already a challenge for educators
to do with retaliating against educa- “This contradicts all we know to feel empowered and protected to
tors who had spoken up in the past about best practices,” said Chiger. do what they believe is best for their
about union, teacher and student “Teachers who are involuntarily students and their colleagues with-
rights. thrown into a co-teaching setting find out fear of being dislodged from the ON THE COVER
“When pressed, the deputy super- themselves having to adapt to a new positions they love,” she said.
work partner, as well as a new grade “The show of solidarity and its Inspired by his former teacher,
intendent and the superintendent of
Cohoes Teachers Association mem-
schools were unable to present any level and setting. All of this takes a power to impact situations in real
ber Chris Michael, John McKnight is
academically justifiable reason” for huge toll on the morale and emotion- time has a very positive effect on
studying to be a physical education
the transfers, Chiger said. al well-being of staff.” member engagement and trust.”
teacher. Photo by Becky Miller.
www.nysut.org September/October 2019 |3
[ FIGHTING FOR YOU ]
welcomes new members to our union
By James Morrison Most importantly, it requires con-
jmorriso@nysutmail.org necting new members with the union
services that offer them the most
G
enerations of NYSUT mem- value. Part of Next Generation NYSUT
bers have fought for and will be providing content that aligns
won rights, benefits and a with each new member’s interests
voice in the workplace. Our decades- and needs. From professional learn-
long fight has paid off and made ing opportunities and certification
our union one of the most powerful support to activism; from union sto-
unions in our nation. From school ries to discounts through our Member
boards to the halls of power in Albany Benefits programs; we will deliver
and Washington, D.C., our voice is useful and engaging content to our
heard and respected. new members.
Despite our victories, in a time Next Generation NYSUT is one
when union values are under initiative in the generations-long
unrelenting assault, we can’t be supported, appreciated, and an We will reach out to our newest struggle to secure rights and benefits
complacent. essential contributor to the union members to ensure that NYSUT is a for our members. If you are a NYSUT
“As a new generation joins our cause,” says NYSUT President Andy fundamental part of their professional member in your first five years on
ranks, it’s more important than ever Pallotta. experience. This means a greater the job, visit NextGenNYSUT.org to
that they understand the benefits that It’s with this critical, trans-gener- focus on digital communications, learn more about our union.
previous generations have won for ational challenge at heart that we reaching new members through “If you are an experienced mem-
them and that the struggle is ongo- introduce Next Generation NYSUT social media and other digital chan- ber, do everything you can to help
ing. It’s equally important that they — our new initiative focused on nels. It also means supporting NYSUT your newer colleagues with the
learn about the services our union engaging new members, providing locals by offering more opportunities challenges they face early in their
provides to support their lives and the professional support they need for them to be engaged with new careers,” Pallotta said. “And encour-
careers. From their first day, every and communicating union value from members from their first day on the age them to become active members
new member must feel that they are their first day on the job. job. of our union.”
Solidarity lifts downstate local facing contract fight
E
lizabeth Negron and James reach a collective bargaining agree- school. Additionally, due to staffing spent more than $1.5 million in legal
Faulkner, members of the ment with its employer, the Frank and shortages — exacerbated by poor fees to avoid reaching a contract deal.
Biondi Labor Union of Carol Biondi Education Center, a tax- working conditions and low pay — Interested in lending your sup-
Essential Staff, experienced solidar- payer-funded 853 private school for student violence has increased; a port to BLUES members? Email your
ity in action when more than 100 students with emotional challenges. teacher was nearly killed in 2016. contact info to organize@nysutmail.
leaders and activists at the Tarrytown Most BLUES members haven’t Despite the danger, union calls org; include “I’m in!” in the subject
Regional Office summer leadership received pay raises in close to a de- to install metal detectors, equip staff line. To learn more about the local,
conference pledged to lend the local cade — despite seven years of tuition with alarm bracelets and hire ad- contact NYSUT labor relations spe-
a helping hand. increases, and a 91 percent pay and ditional monitors have been deemed cialists Daniel Esakoff or Julie Berman
Since organizing in 2013, the perks increase for Alan Mucatel, CEO “too expensive.” School management at NYSUT’s Tarrytown Regional
145-member local has been unable to of Rising Ground, which operates the is aggressively anti-union and has Office, 914-592-4410.
4| September/October 2019 Official Publication of NYSUT
[ FIGHTING FOR YOU ]
DeJesus elected AFT
All summer long, union-backed executive VP
bills become laws
By Ned Hoskin The school bus camera legisla- BOCES to enter into long-term leases.
nhoskin@nysutmail.org tion was signed into law thanks in n Extend injunctive relief provi-
BECKY MILLER
large part to the efforts of NYSUT’s sions under the Taylor Law until June
W
ith more than 900 bills “Support School Staff” campaign 30, 2021. Injunctive relief was enact-
passed by both houses and the hard work and activism ed in 1994 to provide an expedited
of the state Legislature of our dedicated School-Related method to resolve improper practice
Evelyn DeJesus, a NYSUT Board
in the 2019 session, it’s no surprise Professional members. cases in the public sector where member who received the union’s pres-
that it takes a while for them all to get “It’s a long process to get a bill there was deemed to be immediate tigious 2019 “Not for Ourselves Alone”:
to the governor’s desk. But they have passed and ultimately enacted,” and irreparable harm. The Sandra Feldman Outstanding
to pass that last step for a signature Pallotta said, “but as in the case of n Create the climate leadership Leadership Award, was elected this
in order to be enacted. the bus cameras, it’s worth the effort. and community protection act, which summer as executive vice president of
Of the dozens of NYSUT-backed Good laws help to protect us all.” sets goals to reduce greenhouse gas the American Federation of Teachers.
“Evelyn exemplifies NYSUT’s commit-
bills that passed, several were en- Another bill enacted into law emissions in the state by 100 percent
ment to ensuring women are an integral
acted this summer, and more are sure prevents school districts from arming over 1990 levels by 2050.
part of the labor movement,” NYSUT
to follow. n Provide relief from President Andy Pallotta said when she
Notably, one of the losses incurred due to received the Feldman honor. “I applaud
union’s victories came mistakes on final cost her commitment to union values and
in mid August when reports for Newburgh improving our communities.”
the governor signed City School District DeJesus is a former social worker
legislation to allow and Chester Union and paraprofessional who became a
skilled teacher and union leader. “She
school districts to in- Free School District.
is a fierce advocate for justice and
stall stop-arm cameras We also are waiting for
a role model for educators of color
on school buses. enactment on FCR relief and women in the labor movement,”
“This law marks passed in the Legislature United Federation of Teachers President
a significant step for 12 other districts. Michael Mulgrew said. She continues as
forward for student Also still pending en- vice president for education of the UFT
safety,” said NYSUT actment are bills passed in New York City.
President Andy by the Legislature that Educating women to lead on an
educational, political and economic
Pallotta. “With an BECKY MILLER
would:
agenda is at the core of DeJesus’s role
estimated 50,000 mo- Deb Paulin, a school bus driver and the president of the Alden Central School Employees n Include school
Association, spoke passionately about school bus safety earlier this year as part of as a mentor for the next group of women
tor vehicles illegally the union’s Support School Staff campaign. “As a mother and grandmother — and one
districts as employers activists leading the union. It is a corner-
passing school buses who loves the kids under my care — it makes me sick when drivers illegally pass school required to implement stone of her work at UFT and as chair of
every day across New buses,” she said. workplace violence the AFT’s Latino Issues Task Force.
York, bus drivers are prevention steps. In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria
constantly on the lookout for these teachers. It prevents educational in- n Establish seniority rights for SRPs. in 2017, she led the union’s Operation
Agua humanitarian effort to fund clean
reckless motorists while also keeping stitutions from arming any faculty or n Enroll New York City paraprofes-
drinking water for Puerto Rico and to
an eye on the children in their care. staffer who is not primarily employed sionals automatically into the city
support the 40,000 teachers in the new
“It is our sincere hope that school as a school resource officer, law en- Teachers’ Retirement System. AFT local affiliate there.
districts will work quickly to begin forcement officer or security guard. n Make it easier for community col- “Evelyn’s fighting spirit and fierce
installing stop-arm cameras so we In other business, laws have been leges to hire retired law enforcement advocacy have been an inspiration to a
can better hold accountable those enacted to: professionals as faculty for criminal generation of women leaders at all lev-
who show blatant disregard for our n Allow BOCES to enter into justice programs. els of the labor movement,” said Jolene
kids. We thank the governor and contracts to provide services with DiBrango, NYSUT executive vice presi-
dent and chair of the NYSUT Women’s
Legislature for putting our children agencies from outside the state, and
Committee.
first,” Pallotta said. to extend the expiration dates for
www.nysut.org September/October 2019 |5
[ FIGHTING FOR YOU ]
While summertime often means barbecues, sunny days and relaxing visits to the beach, for educators and local
union leaders summer also means professional learning, networking with colleagues, planning for the year ahead —
and knocking on doors urging members to stick with our union.
Scattered throughout the pages of this issue are stories and photos sharing how many of your union colleagues
spent their summer. Feel free to share your union summer memories with us. Email united@nysutmail.org; include
the subject line: How I spent my summer.
NYSUT members participat- Member Organizing Institute
ing in the Member Organizing
Institute fanned out across
the state to speak one-on-one
with their colleagues about the
value of the union. From left:
Randy Arnold, Baldwin TA,
shares a light moment with
Lateef Myles, Hempstead
Classroom TA.
Jean Miller, BOCES II TA, is
happy to show her union
support.
Art teacher Nina Rossi, Irving-
ton FA and Valarie Williams,
Greenburgh TF.
New York State Fair
ANDREW WATSON
Anne Penna, center, Albany Public Schools United Employees, tells member organizers ANDREW WATSON
Hoa Tran, Honeoye Falls-Lima EA, and Jillian Caci, Newburgh TA she couldn’t help but NYSUT members from the Syracuse area, along with NYSUT
notice that anti-union solicitors who recently visited her home had out-of-state plates. President Andy Pallotta, prepare to greet visitors to the
union’s booth on opening day at the New York State Fair.
6| September/October 2019 Official Publication of NYSUT
[ FIGHTING FOR YOU ]
Figueroa: Rebuild the house of labor
By Ned Hoskin on the state of unionism and its future
nhoskin@nysutmail.org in this country. Figueroa called for a
renewed focus and investment in or-
H
ector Figueroa, who ganizing, and a commitment to seek
passed away July 11 in justice for all workers.
New York City, was born in “It’s not too late to rebuild our
Puerto Rico, where his parents were movement,” he wrote, noting critics
part of a long, difficult struggle to win had hoped the U.S. Supreme Court’s
a union for educators, including a 2018 decision in Janus v. AFSCME
strike in 1974. would demolish the house of labor.
In 1998, teachers finally won “But we survived, and workers
collective bargaining on the island, are mobilizing and organizing, with
led by young Hector, then Service and sometimes without a union
Employees International Union orga- behind them. We cannot let this
nizing director for the U.S. territory. unique moment in history pass us by.
Only 57 when he passed, he was Organizing workers, all kinds of work-
president of Local 32BJ SEIU, the ers, needs to be our No. 1 priority. …
largest property services union in “We can build a lasting movement
the country. His influence in labor that will reduce income inequality,
and politics echoed through halls create a country that is fair for all and
of power from New York and New kick the hatemongers out of office.
Jersey to Washington, D.C., and We must begin putting organizing
across the U.S. first today, not in 2021.”
“A true champion of the working Figueroa is survived by his wife,
PHOTO VIA 32BJ FACEBOOK PAGE
class, Hector fought tirelessly to en- Deidre McFadyen, and children Eric
Hector Figueroa
sure hardworking New Yorkers were and Elena. McFadyen is executive
able to achieve a better life for them- editor of New York Teacher, NYSUT’s
selves and their families,” said NYSUT immigrant communities, in the politi- The day after Figueroa died, The publication for members of the
President Andy Pallotta. “His work to cal arena was critical in shaping ma- New York Times published an inspir- United Federation of Teachers in
empower New Yorkers, particularly jor debates and ultimately policies.” ing op-ed in which he commented New York City.
NOTICE OF SPECIAL ELECTION MEETING, NYSUT BOARD OF DIRECTORS, VACANCY ELECTION, ELECTION DISTRICT 4
A vacancy exists on the NYSUT Board of Date: Oct. 8, 2019 Assembly. In order to qualify as a candidate for this shall be given an opportunity to address the meet-
Directors for Election District 4. The vacancy was Time: 5 p.m. special election, a Nominating Petition must be fully ing for a period not to exceed three (3) minutes at
created by the resignation of Eric Talbot, effective Place: John Harvard’s Brew House, completed and then signed by at least two (2) in- a candidates’ forum scheduled for 5 p.m. on Oct.
Aug. 11, 2019. 6447 Holiday Valley Road service members from ED 4. 8, at the above location. The special election meet-
In accordance with the NYSUT Constitution, Ellicottville, NY 14731 The completed and signed Nominating Petition ing will remain in session until a successor director
Article IX, §§4(a) and 4(b): “Directors representing Pursuant to NYSUT Constitution, Article IX, §4(b) must then be received by the NYSUT Elections is elected. The number of votes to which a local is
Election Districts shall be elected on a roll call vote and the approved NYSUT Campaign and Election Committee by the close of business (5 p.m.) on entitled will be evenly distributed among that local’s
by a majority of ballots cast by the representatives Procedures, NYSUT members who were reported Sept. 18, 2019. Any member in good standing delegates present and voting.
from their respective constituencies ... [and in] … as elected delegates to the 2019 Representative from a NYSUT local within ED 4 may be a candi- The candidate elected will serve as successor
the event of a vacancy in the position of Election Assembly representing the members of ED 4 will be date. Only in-service members in good standing Election District Director immediately upon being
District Director, the President shall call a special eligible to vote in this special election. A reported from ED 4 may sign a candidate’s Nominating elected at the Oct. 8, 2019, special election meet-
election to elect a successor who shall serve for the alternate delegate may vote in the absence of the Petition. Nominating Petitions are available by ing and continue to serve as the successor director
remainder of the unexpired term.” delegate. contacting the NYSUT Elections Committee at to the conclusion of the 2020 RA.
The delegates and alternates of Election District Nominations to fill this vacancy will be ac- elections@nysutmail.org or by contacting the All elected delegates or their alternates report-
4 are hereby notified that this vacancy will be filled cepted in accordance with the Campaign and NYSUT Office of the President at 518-213-6000, ed for the 2019 NYSUT RA from ED 4 are requested
by a special election meeting to be held as follows: Election Procedures approved by the NYSUT Board ext. 6662. to be present for this election.
of Directors adopted for the 2017 Representative At the special election meeting, each candidate
www.nysut.org September/October 2019 |7
[ FIGHTING FOR YOU ]
New law protects student data
By Kara Smith school districts and BOCES — will be What this means for educators resources for obtaining safe class-
ksmith@nysutmail.org required to adopt a data security and The law could significantly impact room technology.
A
privacy policy to safeguard student educators — particularly when it “We will continue to offer SED
s educators return to the data. comes to free apps that include feedback about the law’s imple-
classroom this fall, there’s DiBrango submitted imple- “click wrap” agreements that require mentation during the next round of
a new issue to keep on the mentation feedback to state teachers to accept the app’s terms of public comments,” said DiBrango.
radar: digitally safeguarding student officials on the union’s behalf in service. That simple action can make She noted that districts should also
information. Ranging from names, to March. Compiled by NYSUT’s teachers party to a legally binding review their instructional technol-
home addresses, to birth dates and Educational Technology subject contract whose terms might violate ogy plan to ensure it addresses data
locations, Education Law 2-D was area committee, the suggestions federal and state law. To protect privacy. Each district will be required
enacted to shield student informa- include providing training for themselves, teachers should get writ- to designate a data protection officer
tion from digital hackers. Currently, education professionals about ten district approval before accepting to serve as a point of contact for dis-
the State Education Department is relevant federal and state regula- the terms and conditions of any app trict data security and privacy, and to
seeking public input on how the law tions; requiring written assur- used in the classroom, or for school implement the required policies and
will be implemented. ances from third-party contractors purposes. Including students’ per- procedures.
“Although regulations haven’t that they’re in compliance with sonal information — such as names, “Labor management discussions
been put in place yet, educators the law; and extending the time grades or disciplinary problems — in about privacy requirements and their
need to remain vigilant about pro- frame for districts to adopt and emails is also a concern; that informa- impact on students, staff and class-
tecting student data,” said Jolene publish a data security and pri- tion could be easily shared, either room instruction, should also take
DiBrango, NYSUT executive vice vacy policy from Dec. 31 to July intentionally, or inadvertently, putting place,” DiBrango said.
president. Once regulations are 1, 2020 — an extension that was student confidentiality at risk.
adopted, all third-party contractors, made by the state. DiBrango noted that local BOCES
and educational agencies — includ- and teacher centers are good
ing the State Education Department,
8| September/October 2019 Official Publication of NYSUT
[ FIGHTING FOR YOU ]
Union outreach program builds stronger
locals through member engagement
By Matt Smith years ago.
msmith@nysutmail.org “We’re pretty strong, but having
250 members across two different
E
ight-thirty in the morning campuses gets really tricky in terms
in the middle of July and of making sure everyone is clued in,”
there they were — more said Patti Antanavige, MVCC’s LAP
than 100 teachers and education coordinator and the local’s grievance
professionals representing almost 20 chair. “We took the lesson we learned
local unions — packed inside a large in year one regarding one-on-one
conference room, hard at work. communication and reorganized
They came from all over — Long our entire representative structure
Island, Buffalo, Northern New York to ensure people were talking with
and the Southern Tier — using their others they were comfortable with,
summertime to hone their leadership instead of just people in close proxim-
and communication skills as part ity to their buildings. It was a very big
of NYSUT’s weeklong Local Action change, but it was an important one.”
Project. PHOTOS: EL-WISE NOISETTE NYSUT Second Vice President
With assistance from NYSUT staff, Eight local unions successfully completed the three-year LAP program. Above, members of the Syracuse Paul Pecorale said it’s vital that locals
Teachers Association with NYSUT officers Jolene DiBrango, Andy Pallotta and Paul Pecorale. keep their lines of communication
they spent the week discussing ways
to build meaningful partnerships open, increase involvement and “talk
“We want first-year locals to learn the NYSUT program. about what membership looks like.”
within their communities and im-
from those in their second and third “We needed help in learning Antanavige, a student support
prove communications and outreach.
year about what has worked for them, how to increase participation in our adviser, said LAP gave her local “a
They strategized on how to boost
and we want those second- and third- union,” Lorentzsen said. The local re- really good look at how we operated
member participation within their
year locals to share their wisdom.” cently negotiated a contract and held and how we needed to change.
locals. And they examined how to
This summer marked the Lowville an information session to discuss the “It’s useful to conduct that sort
establish effective structures within
TA’s first year at LAP. Lorentzsen, a deal. Of 128 members, “just a handful of introspective research on your-
their unions that would help enhance
high school Spanish teacher who of people showed up.” self,” she said. “LAP also gave us the
their workplaces and districts.
also serves as her union’s vice The same needs brought the training we need in learning how to
“This is a big commitment … but
president, said increasing member Mohawk Valley Community College plan strategically. It’s been a great
it’s also a great opportunity,” said
involvement is what drew her local to Professional Association to LAP three program for us.”
Elisabeth Lorentzsen, LAP coor-
dinator for the Lowville Teachers
Association in Northern New York.
“There’s so much value in being able
to talk to your colleagues and learn
about what worked in their locals,
what didn’t, and what they consider
to be successful.”
The annual program requires a
three-year commitment from locals
and mixes newcomers with those
finishing their final year.
“We really want to make sure this
is a community for learning,” said
Patrick Lyons, NYSUT’s director of NYSUT Secretary-Treasurer Philippe Abraham meets with Collin Members of the Croton TA prepare for the three-year LAP experience.
Constituency Programs and Services. Mulcahy of the Brocton TA.
www.nysut.org September/October 2019 |9National Park Service
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10 | September/October 2019 Official Publication of NYSUT[ SOCIAL JUSTICE ]
Immigration
Teaching kindness from Middle C lessons come to
the classroom
By Liza Frenette
lfrenett@nysutmail.org
By Liza Frenette
T
Teaching about disturbing, politi-
here are many paths to kind- cally charged events such as the refu-
ness. Melissa Salguero finds gee crises and overcrowded detention
hers everyday in the six-story centers can be a challenge for educa-
brick Bronx school where she teaches tors. Students can be frightened hear-
music to students who come from ing about the 40,900 children taken
many places across the globe. into custody by U.S. Health and Human
Salguero blends trust, respect Services since April 2019, a figure re-
and kindness daily, and ties it with ported by Time magazine.
relevance to music. Some students do not know if they
Students can learn to show kind-
will be next to be deported. They learn
about children taken from their parents.
ness to a peer who is taking a long
Some do not understand the differenc-
time to learn an instrument. When a
es between immigrants, refugees and il-
student soloist misses an entrance, legal immigration and do not know how
Salguero has taught students to say to view the situation.
“It’s cool” instead of pointing out the When teaching students “current
Music teacher and United Federation of Teachers member Melissa Salguero, second from left, was a 2019
defect. finalist for the $1 million Global Teacher Prize. She is pictured with music teacher Regina Glamore. events tied around something that is
“The goal is to recover from mis- For more information about the Global Teacher Prize, visit globalteacherprize.org. The deadline to apply very polarizing, such as immigration,”
takes,” she said. for the 2020 award is Sept. 22. it is important to allow all opinions, to
If a student is crying and told to have students seek trustworthy news re-
stop, Salguero believes it invalidates September she will teach a session in and roosters waking up; and white sources offering different perspectives,
their emotion. If they express anger, the Ukraine. butterflies. and to foster critical thinking including
she does not tell them to stop being When the boys and girls sang empathy, perspective and the law, said
Kindness matters “Home” by Phillip Phillips, they Rachel Murat, a Maine-Endwell high
angry.
To build trust with students, the belted out “Just know you’re not school AP Government and Politics
“Maybe those are the only two
teacher.
things he can control today. So it’s approach she uses is consistent be- alone, ‘cause I’m going to make
Teaching students to have produc-
important to listen and validate,” she havior over a long period of time. this place your home.”
tive conversations is a whole life skill.
said. Salguero says learning an instru-
“We’re losing the ability to have civil
Often, anger is related to an out- ment and playing in the marching discourse in this country,” said Murat, a
side factor — or maybe, she muses, it band taught her patience when she Teaching member of the Maine-Endwell Teachers
could be that the lesson is boring. As was younger. Today she carries it for- kindness Association.
a teacher, she needs to look inward. ward with students who are learning Teaching To help educators, AFT has available
“I can talk sternly or give conse- to accept each other and the different Tolerance, lessons about immigration and creating
quences, but I never yell. I deal with cultures represented at the school. a project of the inclusive school communities through
them in a polite and respectful man- Last spring, her choral students Southern Poverty Law the free Share My Lesson site. Teachers,
sang songs and read stories, written Center, was founded parents and immigration advocacy or-
ner,” she said. “Kindness is a way of
with the help of literacy coach and in 1991 to prevent the growth of ganizations have contributed to these
life. It’s not a curriculum. It’s not one
hate. The organization provides resources at sharemylesson.com/
more thing.” UFT member Ginat Kaplan, about
free resources to K–12 educators, immigration.
Salguero, a member of the United where they hail from. The theme was
including lesson plans, professional Another great resource on the site is
Federation of Teachers, is also a 2018 “Home.”
learning tools, webinars and more. a list of books by seven Latinx authors
Grammy winner. She shares her les- Students talked of home being the who have written about their migration
There are several lessons on
sons in kindness with her students coffee from grandma; eating home- teaching kindness, including an experiences. The list includes a learning
and to audiences across the world. made baleadas; the bagels that are article on helping future educators arc framework for educators to consider
In March she taught a lesson on like “eating love;” making a cake the realize the value of kindness before as the books are introduced to stu-
kindness in Dubai as a 2019 top 10 colors of the Dominican Republic for they teach it to students. Visit dents. Visit sharemylesson.com/blog/
finalist for the Global Teacher Prize. In New Year’s; the lovely sounds of birds tolerance.org. latinx-authors-7-must-read-books-1.
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12 | September/October 2019 Official Publication of NYSUT[ OUR SRP S ]
Getting to know ... Patti Paratore
Patti Paratore is a clerical/senior their lessons and hear their passion What do you
office assistant at Candlewood in what they teach. The paraprofes- do to make a
Middle School and a member of the sionals are to me the most amazing difference?
Half Hollow Hills Association of Office staff members. Each and every day I
Sometimes being
Personnel. She was interviewed by watch how much of an impact they
a school secretary is
Lori Levine, paraprofessional trustee make on their students. They are truly
just taking the time to
for the Half Hollow Hills Teachers the most important person for a child
listen to a parent, stu-
Association and a member of the with high needs. They love, nurture
dent or staff member’s
NYSUT SRP Advisory Committee. and motivate their students like they
problem or answering
are their own child. On a personal
their questions. I find
Tell me about your job and note, another reason the paraprofes-
it very rewarding to
why you love what you do. sionals are dear to me is, my mother,
help people. It’s not
Eileen Morgan, with the help of the
I initially took the job (in 1996 as a difficult being nice to
HHHTA, formed the Paraprofessional
substitute clerical) to coordinate days people.
Union back in 1979.
that worked with my son’s school
schedule. I am actually a 1974 gradu- Tell me about
How are you involved with
ate of this district. your hobbies.
I love everything about my job. your union?
My hobbies include
I am the secretary to the assistant I am a member of the Half Hollow
trying to learn to golf.
principal, who assigns the parapro- Hills Association of Office Personnel.
I enjoy crocheting
fessionals and monitors their place- I am very involved in our union, going
and gardening. I look PROVIDED
ment. Our building has 90 teachers, to meetings, raising money for breast
forward to the week-
59 paraprofessionals and 17 moni- cancer and the American Cancer
ends to enjoy time with my husband, too. I am also the proud “Nana” of two
tors. We have an awesome staff. My Society. I was the secretary of the
Augie, who is a retired police officer. beautiful grandchildren.
office is in earshot of several grade 6 association for the 2018–19 school
My son, Joseph, is a police officer,
classrooms. I hear the teachers teach year. It was a great experience.
Safety takes center stage at SRP train the trainer
N
early three dozen NYSUT SRP mem- school buildings.
bers participated in a four-day training NYSUT’s free SRP Recognition Day
session with the union’s Education Celebration packet is filled with promotional
and Learning Trust. The topics, determined by tips, innovative ideas and other helpful resourc-
SRPs, included working safely in schools, how es, including “Proud Union SRP — Essential
to prevent illness and injuries when toileting to Education” stickers, a poster and a flier for
students; addressing anti-LGBTQ bullying and display. First come, first served — supplies are
harassment in schools; supporting students with limited. Local leaders can visit nysut.org/srp
autism; and promoting a positive school culture day in mid-September to order the celebration
and climate. Those who successfully complete packet.
the training can then provide workshops and
seminars to their peers back in their districts.
Save the date
LIZA FRENETTE
NYSUT’s 41st Annual SRP Leadership
Celebrate SRPs Conference will be held Oct. 4–6 at the Hilton
School-Related Professionals Day is Tuesday, Hotel in Saratoga Springs.
Susan Brewer, Buffalo Educational Support Team, posts some of the Nov. 19, a day to honor the work of the people For info, contact NYSUT SRP Coordinator
safety reminder posters created by participants at the August ELT train who support students, teachers and the care of Leslie Fottrell at lfottrel@nysutmail.org.
the trainer.
www.nysut.org September/October 2019 | 13[ CHECK IT OUT ] [ TEACHING & LEARNING ]
Unbroken: 13
Stories Starring
Disabled Teens New commissioner offers a
chance for a fresh start
Edited by Marieke
Nijkamp
Recommended
by: Rose
By Sylvia Saunders said. “As a longtime educator and superintendent in Hillsborough
Reissman, United Federation of
ssaunder@nysutmail.org former local union president who County, Florida, has led the State
Teachers, literacy specialist
sat across from superintendents and Education Department since 2015,
W
Recommended for: grades 9 to 12
ith the resignation boards of education, we get the best replacing John King Jr. Since then,
Why I chose it: This anthology results when we have a productive, the state has grappled with an over-
of State Education
focuses on teen protagonists with collaborative, respectful relationship haul in federal education law, teacher
Commissioner
disabilities, yet the disabilities are not with management.” evaluations, new learning standards
MaryEllen Elia, NYSUT is advocating
the focus of this book. The collection In a surprise at the end of the and backlash from the state’s contin-
offers opportunities for all students to for a new leader who will focus on
the state’s broken testing system, Board of Regents meeting in July, ued fixation on standardized testing.
understand more about disabilities,
address the teacher shortage and Elia submitted her letter of resigna- There has also been escalating ten-
and provides material for students
increase tion saying she would leave at the sion between Elia and some mem-
who are in inclusion classes, or who
need special support, to recognize diversity in bers of the Board
their lives and experiences. the education of Regents.
profession. At the same
What I like about the work: Each
“A new Regents meet-
author in this book has a disability.
There are standard young adult chal- commissioner ing where she
lenges — romance, bullying, divorce, offers the announced her
finances, loneliness and beyond. The chance for a resignation,
challenges can be complicated by the fresh start in Elia and depart-
protagonist’s disability, but the writers education,” ment staff, along
build on the teen’s inherent strength with Chancellor
said NYSUT
of character, ingenuity, decision-mak- Rosa, outlined a
President
ing and capacity to accept support major initiative to
Andy Pallotta.
from someone outside. spend the next
“We hope
How teachers can use this work: that the new year “rethinking”
Students can write reflections about the state’s high
commissioner
how the story adds insight into the school diploma
will be open
daily life of a peer — or themselves — requirements and
to hearing
living with a disability in the context an aggressive
of regular high school angst. Students feedback from
educators. It’s implementa-
can select a story and “write them-
important that tion timeline. A
selves” as teens into this story. Some
decisions are made with our mem- end of August to pursue work with a number of Regents questioned the
of the disability behaviors and condi-
tions described may help students bers — rather than to our members.” national group “supporting districts proposal and the wisdom of moving
who may need to be diagnosed. NYSUT Executive Vice President to help turn around schools.” ahead so quickly.
Jolene DiBrango, who serves as New York’s education commis- DiBrango said NYSUT’s Research
About the author: Marieke Nijkamp
the union’s liaison with the State sioner is selected by the Board of Department would be conducting
is the founder of DiversifYA. Her debut
novel, This Is Where It Ends, follows Education Department, said she Regents. Shortly after Elia’s an- a survey to see what members think
four teens during a school shooting. hopes the selection process will be nouncement, Regents Chancellor about the current graduation require-
Visit mariekenijkamp.com for more. open and that education stakeholder Betty Rosa and Vice Chancellor T. ments and the high school Regents
groups including NYSUT will be Andrew Brown announced that exams.
“Check it Out” features books Executive Deputy Commissioner “Our goal and advocacy is to
asked for input on what characteris-
recommended to teachers and parents ensure that every single student gets
tics they would like to see in the new Beth Berlin would serve as acting
by school librarians and other educators.
commissioner. commissioner, while the search for a a high-quality education and that our
Have a recommendation? Send
suggestions, along with your name and “We have many issues to tackle new commissioner is underway. educators are respected and sup-
local union, to lfrenett@nysutmail.org. and we are hopeful the next commis- Elia, a longtime educator in ported,” DiBrango said.
sioner will partner with us,” DiBrango Western New York and former school
14 | September/October 2019 Official Publication of NYSUT[ TEACHING & LEARNING ]
When the ‘right path’ leads back to the classroom
By Kara Smith “I would go and talk to Mr. Michael
ksmith@nysutmail.org and he helped me view things in a
positive way and, to this day, that’s
C
hris Michael wants to be still the way I am … he showed me that
remembered for more than he cared,” said McKnight. “I didn’t
names and dates when stu- have a lot of good in my life, but he
dents move on from his eighth grade was like an older brother, that extra
social studies class at Cohoes Middle person there to guide me.”
School near Albany. At eighth grade graduation,
“I want them to remember me as McKnight and a group of his friends
a caring human being who listened dressed alike and took a picture
to them, shared life advice and tried with Michael. McKnight also wrote
to send them down the right path in him a thank you letter. “I teared up
life,” said Michael. reading it,” Michael said, noting that
“Anything else is a bonus.” letters like that are why he went into BECKY MILLER
John McKnight is entering his senior year at SUNY Cortland. The future physical education
Former student John McKnight is teaching.
teacher draws inspiration from his eighth grade social studies teacher Chris Michael, right.
one of Michael’s success stories. His “It’s the most fulfilling job I’ve
life had started sliding off track fol- ever had,” said the Cohoes Teachers
lowing his parent’s divorce when he Association member. Although he’d After completing his freshman child’s life.”
was in elementary school. Although considered a career in education in year at SUNY Cortland, and dissatis- The admiration is mutual. At the
his single-parent father did the best high school, he’d worked in journal- fied with an athletic training major, start of every school year, Michael
he could, long work hours, and tight ism and a family business before McKnight did some soul searching. talks to his incoming students about
finances, took a toll. becoming a teacher at 28. He thought back to what helped McKnight’s determination to suc-
McKnight found himself drifting. McKnight and his friends sought shape him into the man he is. He ceed. “I’m beyond proud of him,” he
He watched people close to him lose Michael out again for a photo at their realized it was teachers like Michael. said. “He’s going to be an amazing
their lives to drug addiction, started high school graduation. “We wanted “I never thought I would be a teacher teacher.”
hanging out with the wrong crowd something to remember where we … but now I try to remember all that I
and school suspensions followed. “I came from,” McKnight said. “He learned from him,” he said. “Maybe
had to grow up really fast,” he said. played a big role in how we grew up.” I can help students become who
they’re going to be.”
This fall, McKnight starts his senior
year majoring in physical education.
He looks forward to getting kids mov-
ing every day. He also looks forward
NYSUT launched its Take A Look at
to stability.
Teaching initiative in the 2018–19
“Becoming a teacher, I know that school year to strengthen teacher
I’ll be secure, which is really impor- recruitment efforts and elevate the
tant,” he said noting that having food profession as a whole.
on the table each night wasn’t always The effort features campus conversa-
a guarantee growing up. tions, and regional summits for stu-
He knows that Michael’s influ- dents and educators hosted by P–12
ence will guide him throughout his and higher education locals across
career. “He’s a good role model,”
the state.
Another series of summits will be
said McKnight. “When I’m a teacher, I
held this school year. Locations in-
want my students to respect me, but
PROVIDED
clude Long Island, Tarrytown, Capital
I also want them to feel like they can Region and Southern Tier. For
Cohoes Middle School teacher Chris Michael celebrates his students’ graduation from eighth grade. From come to me with a problem. I never
left, Josh Giller, Jordan West, Jacob Bowen, John McKnight and Ryan Sencer. McKnight is now studying
more information, visit nysut.org/
to be a teacher himself. Visit nysut.org/nysutunited to see the group’s redo of this image at their high realized, until I looked back on it, how takealookatteaching.
school graduation. much of an impact you can have on a
www.nysut.org September/October 2019 | 15You can also read
