New day for public education - INSIDE One of our own President-elect pledges to put an educator at helm of U.S. DOE | 4 - NYSUT
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www.nysut.org | January/February 2021
INSIDE
One of our own A seat at the table
President-elect pledges Union voice imperative when
to put an educator navigating COVID-19
at helm of U.S. DOE | 4 workplace hazards | 24
New day for
public education
CONTENTS NYSUT UNITED [ January/February 2021, Vol. 11, No. 3 ]
Director of Communications: Damien LaVera NYSUT United is a member publication of the Road, Latham, NY 12110
International Labor Communications Association,
5: Resources for Lead Editor/Copy Desk Chief: Clarisse Butler Banks
Assistant Editors/Writers:
Metro New York Labor Communications Council,
UFT member address changes: POSTMASTER:
New York Teacher, 52 Broadway,
laid-off members Liza Frenette, Ned Hoskin, Sylvia Saunders,
State Education Association Communicators. 12th floor, New York, NY 10004
Kara E. Smith, Matt Smith, Andrew Watson Editorial and Production Department: PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT LATHAM, NY
518-213-6000 and 800-342-9810 (toll-free) ADDITIONAL ENTRY OFFICE
6: Jan. 8 deadline for
Photo Editor: J. El-Wise Noisette
Annual subscription: $15. NYSUT members receive WILLIAMSPORT, PA 17701
Lead Designer: Nicole Clayton
TRS Board vacancy Art and Production: Dana Fournier
a copy of NYSUT United as part of their dues benefit.
Households with multiple members will receive only one
NYSUT United (ISSN 21587914) and nysut.org are
official publications of New York State United Teachers.
Advertising: Lori DiVeglia copy. If you do wish to receive more than one copy, please NYSUT United publishes six issues from September
8: Union food drives Online Communications Coordinator: Bryan Thomas
Editorial Support: Julie Malec
call 518-213-6000.
Address changes: POSTMASTER:
to June.
Advertising: Email Lori DiVeglia at lori.diveglia
filling in the gaps Member Records Department, 800 Troy-Schenectady @nysut.org or call 518-213-6000 or 800-448-4ADS.
NYSUT Affiliated with AFT NEA AFL-CIO
10: Our SRPs: Mary
Smith, Syracuse TA NEW YORK STATE UNITED TEACHERS AT-LARGE DIRECTORS:
800 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, NY 12110 Cheryl Hughes, Joseph Cantafio, Andrew Bogey, Brian Ebertz, William Scott, Don
518-213-6000 800-342-9810 Carlisto, Maria Pacheco, Matthew Haynes, Samantha Rosado-Ciriello, Cordelia
12: An unlikely group OFFICERS: Anthony, Ronald Verderber, Wayne White, Debra Penny, Howard Schoor, Analia Gerard,
Thomas Brown, Janella Hinds, Sterling Roberson, Barbara Bowen, Frederick Kowal,
questions teacher President: Andy Pallotta
Florence McCue, Shelvy Y. Abrams (SRPs), Sandra Carner-Shafran (SRPs), Karen Lee
Executive Vice President: Jolene T. DiBrango
ratings this year Second Vice President: Ron Gross Arthmann (SRPs), Deborah Paulin (SRPs), Angie Rivera (SRPs), Anne Goldman (Health
Secretary-Treasurer: J. Philippe Abraham Care), Stephen Rechner (Private Sector Higher Ed), Andrew Sako (Community Colleges),
Pamela Malone (Higher Education) and Michael Fabricant (Higher Education)
19: RA Campaign & ELECTION DISTRICT DIRECTORS:
Peter Stuhlmiller, Michelle Licht, Joseph J. Najuch, Kevin Mole, Adam Urbanski,
EX-OFFICIO BOARD MEMBER:
Election Procedures Andrew Jordan, John Kuryla, David Chizzonite, Jeanette Stapley, Laura Franz, Joseph
Melinda Person, Executive Director/NYSUT Political Director
HONORARY BOARD MEMBERS:
Herringshaw, Juliet Benaquisto, Melissa Servant, Sparrow Tobin, Sean
Antonia Cortese (Emerita), Thomas Y. Hobart Jr. (President Emeritus),
Kennedy, Jeffrey Yonkers, Tomia Smith, Frederic Stark, Gregory Perles, John
23: Share your strike Mansfield, Kevin Coyne, Nancy Sanders, Laura Spencer, Karen Blackwell Alford,
Alan B. Lubin (Executive Vice President Emeritus)
memories Dwayne Clark, Evelyn DeJesus, Amy Arundell, MaryJo Ginese, Mary Atkinson,
AFT VICE PRESIDENTS:
J. Philippe Abraham, Shelvy Y. Abrams, Barbara Bowen, Don Carlisto,
Anthony Harmon, Michael Mulgrew, Elizabeth Perez, Cassie Prugh, Richard Mantell,
Evelyn DeJesus, Jolene T. DiBrango, Ron Gross, Anthony M. Harmon, Frederick
LeRoy Barr, Iris DeLutro (City & Private Higher Ed), Steven London (City & Private Higher
31: Free Black History Ed), Roberta Elins (Community Colleges), Jamie Dangler (State Higher Ed, UUP), Rowena
Kowal, Michael Mulgrew, Andy Pallotta, Adam Urbanski
NEA DIRECTORS:
Month poster; Blackman-Stroud (State Higher Ed, UUP), Thomas Tucker (State Higher Ed, UUP), Philip
Serena Kotch, Thomas McMahon
Rumore, Adam Piasecki, Dora Leland, Loretta Donlon (Retiree),
Kudos! Rosemary Catanzariti (Retiree), Thomas Murphy (Retiree)
Alternate Directors: Sue Raichilson, Dora Leland
Executive Committee members are underlined.
Have a Safe and
Happy Holid ay
Season
From Your Friends and union FamilY at new York state united teachers
Andrew Pallotta Jolene T. DiBrango Ron Gross J. Philippe Abraham
President Executive Vice President Second Vice President Secretary-Treasurer
2| January/February 2021 Official Publication of NYSUT
[ FIGHTING FOR YOU ]
COMING UP
The song remains the same: Jan. 6
Raise revenue Governor’s State of the State
address; 2021 NYS legislative
session convenes
Union’s legislative priorities As a result of the fiscal situation, to public schools. The alternative
focus on COVID–19 issues the New York State Division of Budget simply isn’t acceptable for students,
has been withholding support for educators and families.”
By Ned Hoskin higher education on SUNY and CUNY
Session in isolation
ned.hoskin@nysut.org campuses as well as community col-
The legislative session will be
leges, causing massive layoffs, lost
T
even more unusual than last year’s,
here’s no debate over this
programs and ballooning class sizes.
which shifted to remote business and Jan. 11–12
They also zeroed-out funding for edu- Board of Regents meets
fact: At the current rate, in essentially kept the books open for
cational programs such as Universal
the midst of a pandemic, months. This year, the Legislature will
New York State faces a fiscal deficit of
Pre-K and teacher centers,
meet online to comply with social Jan. 18
essentially Martin Luther King Jr. Day
some $60 billion over the next four to distancing requirements.
shutting
five years. Of course, that also means
them
And there should be no debate the face-to-face rituals of lobby-
over this fact, as well: The two- ing at the Capitol will be impos-
pronged solution is to enact federal sible. NYSUT activists in the
COVID-19 stimulus funding and to Committee of 100, and the leg-
raise revenue at home by taxing the islative staff, will still be work-
state’s wealthiest ing the phones, the emails and
residents. the Zoom meetings.
Jan. 20
Obviously, COVID–19 59th Presidential Inauguration
recovery is the No. 1 priority.
Students in all public schools Jan. 29–30
—including low-wealth rural NYSUT Board of Directors meets
and urban areas — must have
the equipment, the internet ac- Feb. 8–9
cess and the resources needed Board of Regents meets
to support their education.
“We can NYSUT activists will also be Feb. 12–14
looking to restore funding NYS Association of Black and
hope the changes in Washington,
Puerto Rican Legislators annual
D.C., will loosen the purse strings for down. Now, cuts that were
legislative conference
much needed pandemic relief,” said a further 20 made last year. In
NYSUT President Andy Pallotta. “But percent reduction higher education Please note, some or all of these events
we need the commonsense revenue in state aid looms as and pre-K–12, these may be conducted as virtual meetings in
enhancers at home to survive this a step toward closing programs must be made compliance with social distancing guidance.
whole. NYSUT will continue to hold lobby days in
medical, educational and economic the state budget gap.
2021. However, they will be held virtually due
disaster.” Such cuts taken in lieu Community schools, which serve to COVID-19. Details and dates are still being
Enacted as the coronavirus of revenue solutions are unfair and entire communities with wrap- finalized. Information will be shared with
shoved the economy into a tailspin, ill-advised, NYSUT maintains. around health and social services Local Presidents in January.
last year’s state budget reduced state “This is simple,” Pallotta said. to improve education, took a hit last
support for schools for 2020–21 by “Devastating cuts to state aid will year. They require committed fund-
$1.1 billion through what was called lead to a reprehensible loss of oppor- ing to build a better system, with a
the Pandemic Adjustment. Some tunities for students. It’s time to refo- school nurse in every building, and
of that was covered by the federal cus on federal stimulus funding and to ensure supports are available to
Designed by Nicole Clayton
CARES Act, but it did not fully restore state revenues that can help cover help with the mental health needs of
lost state aid to public schools. the budget gap and stop deep cuts students and teachers.
www.nysut.org January/February 2021 |3
[ FIGHTING FOR YOU ]
We’ll have one of our own in the White House
educators, this is a great day. You’re Biden is passionate about the power
going to have one of your own in the of community college as a path to
White House.” success — and always a strong advo-
Known as “Dr. B.” to her com- cate for expanding higher education
munity college students, Biden has access and support.
been an educator for more than Not surprisingly, Jill Biden strongly
three decades. Before moving to supports her husband’s promise to
Washington, D.C., she taught English appoint an educator to be the na-
and writing at a community college tion’s new education secretary.
in Delaware, at public high schools “Four years of Betsy DeVos is more
and at a psychiatric hospital for than enough,” Joe Biden said. “We
adolescents. When she gave her need a secretary of education who is
Democratic National Convention actually a public school educator.”
speech last summer, it was from her DeVos, who has been among the
former classroom at Brandywine High most unpopular cabinet members
School in Delaware. in the Trump administration, never
She earned her Ph.D. from the taught in a classroom or attended a
University of Delaware in 2007, with public school. The education secre-
a dissertation on how to maximize tary oversees the U.S. Department
As second lady, Jill Biden frequently visited schools.
student retention in community col- of Education and sets the nation’s
By Sylvia Saunders
sylvia.saunders@nysut.org lege. She also has master’s degrees in agenda on everything from standard-
much that she will continue teaching
education and English. ized testing requirements to federal
at an area community college even
T
Jill Biden is often asked why funding priorities.
alk about elevating teacher after she moves into the White House
she wants to continue teaching at Biden has repeatedly made it clear
voice. When President-elect — just like she did while her husband
Northern Virginia Community College he intends to keep listening to educa-
Joe Biden takes his oath served as vice president. She is a
while serving as first lady. tors. “You will never find in American
of office this month, he will have a longtime member of the National
“It’s important, and I want people history a president who is more
longtime teacher and union member Education Association.
to value teachers and know their con- teacher-centric and more supportive
standing by his side: Dr. Jill Biden. “Teaching isn’t just what she does.
tributions, and lift up the profession,” of teachers than me,” Biden told NEA
The future first lady is a lifelong It’s who she is,” Joe Biden said in his
she told the “CBS Morning Show.” members at their 2020 convention.
educator who loves the profession so Nov. 7 victory speech. “For America’s
NOTICE OF SPECIAL ELECTION MEETING • NYSUT BOARD OF DIRECTORS VACANCY ELECTION • ELECTION DISTRICT 26
A vacancy exists on the NYSUT Board of Directors The delegates and alternates of ED 24–35 are here- the NYSUT Office of the President at 800-342-9810. At the Special Election Meeting, each candidate shall
for Election District 26. The vacancy was created by by notified that this vacancy will be filled by a Special be given an opportunity to address the meeting for
Nominations to fill this vacancy will be accepted
the resignation of Evelyn DeJesus, effective Dec. 31, Election. Due to ongoing government restrictions a period not to exceed three (3) minutes at a Candi-
in accordance with the Campaign and Election
2020. on public gatherings brought on by the COVID-19 dates’ forum scheduled for 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb.
Procedures approved by the NYSUT Board of Direc-
pandemic, and in order to ensure compliance with 9, 2021, via electronic Zoom meeting. Ballots will
In accordance with the NYSUT Constitution, Article tors adopted for the 2020 Representative Assembly.
the NYSUT Constitution, Bylaws, and all applicable be mailed to electors on or about Thursday, Feb. 11,
IX, §§4(a) and 4(b): “Directors representing Election In order to qualify as a candidate for this Special
laws, this Special Election will be conducted by mail 2021. Ballots must be returned to and received by
Districts shall be elected on a roll call vote by a Election, a Nominating Petition must be fully com-
ballot following an electronic special election Zoom NYSUT Elections Committee by the close of business
majority of ballots cast by the representatives from pleted and then signed by at least two (2) in-service
meeting: (5 p.m.) on Thursday, March 11, 2020, for tabulation
their respective constituencies...[and in]…the event members from ED 24–35.
at that time, or as soon afterward as possible.
of a vacancy in the position of Election District Direc- DATE: Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2021
The completed and signed Nominating Petition must
tor, the President shall call a special election to elect TIME: 6 p.m. The candidate elected will serve as successor
then be received by the NYSUT Elections Committee
a successor who shall serve for the remainder of the PLACE: Electronic Zoom Meeting Election District Director immediately upon the
by the close of business (5 p.m.) on Jan. 25, 2021.
unexpired term.” completion of tabulation and continue to serve as
All eligible delegate voters who were reported to Any member in good standing from a NYSUT local
the Successor Director through the conclusion of the
Pursuant to NYSUT Constitution, Article IX, §4(b) the 2020 NYSUT Representative Assembly from ED within ED 24–35 may be a candidate. Only in-service
2023 Representative Assembly.
and the approved NYSUT Campaign and Election 24-35 will be sent login instructions one week prior members in good standing from ED 24–35 may sign
Procedures, NYSUT members who were reported as to the meeting, Feb. 9, 2021. If a delegate does not a candidate’s Nominating Petition. Nominating Peti- All elected delegates or their alternates reported for
elected delegates to the 2020 Representative As- receive login instructions by that date, they may re- tions are available by contacting the NYSUT Elections the 2020 NYSUT RA from ED 24–35 are requested to
sembly representing the members of ED 24–35 will quest instructions by contacting the NYSUT Elections Committee at elections@nysut.org or by contacting be present for this election meeting.
be eligible to vote in this Special Election. Committee at elections@nysut.org or by contacting the NYSUT Office of the President at 800-342-9810.
4| January/February 2021 Official Publication of NYSUT
[ FIGHTING FOR YOU ]
Furloughs, layoffs are not the answer
By Ned Hoskin school year, Scott said. Talks with the strain of the coronavirus crisis. Meanwhile, the Whitesboro dis-
ned.hoskin@nysut.org STA continue. As a result, Gov. Cuomo an- trict, near Utica, put 103 non-teaching
“We are working on finalizing an nounced $1.5 billion to provide mon- staff members on furlough between
T
agreement for voluntary furlough that ey to organizations facing cash flow Thanksgiving and Christmas while
he statewide union is stand-
would meet members’ needs and issues. The state AFL-CIO supported the district switched to remote-
ing up for common sense
would not interfere with instruction,” the move as a temporary fix to help only learning. The local Whitesboro
and urging calm this holiday
Scott said. keep organizations operational in Employees Union ensured fur-
season as districts struggle with re-
Districts in several regions January and February while the state loughed staff members retained
duced state aid and fear further fiscal
went through the same thing in budget is being negotiated. NYSUT health insurance coverage and could
fallout of the pandemic.
September. After efforts to pass a is working with the governor’s office use paid time off.
The rush to cut staff might save
second COVID-19 stimulus bill in to ensure that these funds will be “This is an incredibly painful situ-
pennies, but the cost to the commu-
Washington stalled, some districts accessible by public schools, SUNY ation for the members of the WEU
nity is devastating.
threatened massive layoffs because, and CUNY to stave off additional cuts and one that we do not take lightly,”
Two weeks before the holiday
they said, the state told them aid was and layoffs. Jennifer Faulkner, union president,
break, the Syracuse Teachers
being withheld and the cuts had to told the Observer-Dispatch. “Make no
Association met to discuss the dis-
be made. mistake, though, the district’s deci-
trict’s sudden plans to furlough and
NYSUT and local unions fought sion will have ripple effects across
lay off teachers and School-Related
back — even taking legal action — our community.”
Professionals, plans based on poten-
and the Division of Budget promised
tial 20 percent cuts in school aid. Help from your union
to deliver some of the delayed school
NYSUT President Andy Pallotta, NYSUT’s online Career Center at
aid payments and to hold off on fur-
who met online with STA members nysut.org/resources includes links
ther cuts until after the elections. DOB
and President Bill Scott, said it’s not for education job listings in New York
said it was all a misunderstanding.
clear why the district floated this State, along with information to help
Some layoffs were averted, al-
proposal. you progress in your career and many
though many were not, including in
Pallotta called the Division of links to additional resources.
Schenectady, Albany and Rochester.
Budget in Albany and asked if there The “Resources for Laid-Off
NYSUT continues its Fund Our
was some new directive to cut staff, Bill Scott, president of the Syracuse TA. Employees” provides information
Future initiative that calls for new fed-
because the Syracuse district said it about protecting your benefits, your
eral stimulus funding for education Below: NYSUT President Andy Pallotta is
had no choice. rights in returning to work, and news
and state revenue enhancements, interviewed by CNYCentral about the situation
“The answer I got is no,” he said. in Syracuse. and resources to help in a job search.
including taxes on the ultra-wealthy.
STA’s Scott said 85 percent of the
NYSUT expects to see a pan-
district’s funding comes from the
demic aid package from the federal
state, and proposed cuts could result
government, although there are no
in a $40–$70 million shortfall. But
guarantees.
they haven’t happened yet.
In mid-December, NYSUT, other
The district has already enacted
labor unions and the State AFL-CIO
a central office hiring freeze, begun
urged lawmakers to increase rev-
austerity spending and program
enue by taxing ultramillionaires and
reductions. It seeks the layoffs and
billionaires, saying it would raise up
furloughs to help cut $15 million in
to $9 billion to offset the economic
spending for the remainder of the
www.nysut.org January/February 2021 |5
[ FIGHTING FOR YOU ]
TRS board
vacancy;
Union: Remain vigilant
Jan. 8 deadline
NYSUT Second Vice President and
against privatization threats
NYSTRS Trustee Ron Gross will be
stepping down from the NYSTRS Board less likely to disclose. “Privatizers By the time the three-year grant
of Trustees on Jan. 31. This will create literally put our students and teach- program was up, Moran said, the
a vacancy for one of the three teacher- ers in danger. As an association, we district was in better financial shape
members on the NYSTRS Board. need to stop mincing words and to bring back the bargaining unit
NYSUT is accepting applications from say it that way.” social workers but has failed to do so
NYSUT members, who are actively teach- In challenging times, “we need to the staffing level that existed prior
ing, for consideration for an appointment more transparency and public to 2012.
by the New York State Commissioner of accountability,” he said. “The com- “We put them on notice that we
Education to fill the remainder of Gross’s
munity and school district should did not agree to use the subcon-
term, which will expire in November. The
be as committed to SRPs as they tracted workers,” Moran said. The
appointee will then seek election to a
are to students.” union filed an improper practice
three-year term on the NYSTRS Board
at the NYSTRS Delegates Meeting in The COVID-19 pandemic is a charge in December 2017. This year,
November. time to recognize how essential the TA won a PERB case to eliminate
NYSUT members wishing to apply SRP’s are, Barchak said. the use of the subcontracted social
should submit a letter of intent and a Privatization often leads to a workers and return the work to bar-
resume no later than Jan. 8, outlining how combination of business practices gaining unit personnel. The district is
their credentials and background align that will make a school commu- appealing.
with the candidate guidelines outlined in PROVIDED
nity less safe, he said, including a The subcontracting of these social
Stacy Moran, Newburgh TA
the NYSUT Policy Manual. Specifically, workforce that can be less stable due workers is concerning for several
candidates should possess: to temporary job seekers, and work- reasons, Moran explained, with the
A working knowledge of, and experi-
By Liza Frenette ers not as committed to the school key concern being that their services
ence with, the state Teachers’ Retirement
liza.frenette@nysut.org population. were limited only to students who
System;
SRPs are not the only school work- had health insurance.
T
A demonstrated, long-standing
interest in retirement matters, such here are people who use force at risk. “In a district like Newburgh, that
as serving as a delegate to the annual disasters and crises to profit Recently, the Newburgh cuts out so many students,” she said.
NYSTRS Delegates Meeting; and laborers need to be Teachers Association won a Public
A willingness to run for election for watchful against attempts to privatize Employment Relations Board rul-
this position in November of 2021 for
a new three-year term of office on the
their work now during the pandemic ing upholding its opposition to the
ongoing privatization of school social
Get your story
NYSTRS Board of Trustees; and
when education budgets are being
slashed. workers. out
A willingness to commit to NYSUT’s Stacy Moran, Newburgh TA When fighting against
Tim Barchak, organizer, lobby-
retirement education program and work president, explained that during the threat of privatiza-
ist and policy analyst with National
with the other NYSTRS Trustees. tion, Barchak said, it’s
Education Association, issued that an economic crisis in 2012–13, the
Candidates who meet the qualifica- important for those working in education
warning during NYSUT’s 2020 district lost social workers and school
tions listed above will be contacted to ensure that school boards, parents
School-Related Professionals leader- psychologists. A community schools
for an interview by NYSUT’s Selection and the public understand how vital their
Committee. Virtual interviews will be ship conference, held online this grant brought in subcontracted
roles are.
conducted on the evenings of Jan. 20 and year. social workers through the Orange
County Department of Mental Health Attend monthly school board meet-
Jan. 21. Privatizers can ignore benefits —
ings; become recognized names and
NYSUT members who are interested such as sick days and health care — for three years; the psychologists
faces.
in applying for this position should email vital to keeping workplaces healthy were not replaced.
their resume and a letter of intent to Let stakeholders such as BOE, PTA
and safe during the pandemic. “Clinical staffing was reduced by
the Office of the NYSUT President at and other parent groups know the
“If there’s an outbreak of COVID-19 five clinicians, resulting in a total of
NYSTRSdelegates@nysut.org. types of work you and your colleagues
we want to know if an employee is 15 school psychologists and social
Questions? Please contact NYSUT’s perform.
feeling ill,” Barchak said. However, workers for over 11,000 students,”
Deputy Director of Legislation Pete Ask board members and legislators to
if employees feel pressured to work Moran said. Elementary, middle and
Savage, at peter.savage@nysut.org. job shadow for a day.
or don’t have sick days, they may be high school students were affected.
6| January/February 2021 Official Publication of NYSUT
[ FIGHTING FOR YOU ]
Committee meeting has
“PowHERful” theme
By Kara Smith President Ron Gross and Secretary-
kara.smith@nysut.org Treasurer J. Philippe Abraham,
welcomed attendees. “I’m proud of
T
he United States will inau- the work you’re doing to encourage
gurate Kamala Harris as vice more members to take active roles in
president in January; she our union,” said Pallotta.
will be the first woman to hold the With the pandemic, the 100th
position. Harris will also be the first anniversary of the 19th Amendment
woman of color to serve in the office, and Kamala Harris’ election, “2020
but our nation still lacks true equality. has been a year like no other … we
Women don’t have full reproduc- have seen the lowest of lows and the
tive rights; economic equality; equal highest of highs,” said DiBrango. “At
access to health care; and don’t hold our lowest, it’s easy to feel powerless,
positions of power in equal propor- but women — our power, our ideas,
tion to their numbers.
SCREEN CAPTURE BY LESLIE ROSE our resiliency and our perseverance
“Until women have equality NYSUT members from across the state come together for the 2020 Women’s Committee meeting. — are needed to lead now more than
in these areas, a women’s move- ever before.”
ment is still necessary,” said Jolene SAG-AFTRA, a 165,000-member and women from advocating for For more information about the
DiBrango, NYSUT executive vice entertainment union, and become themselves.” NYSUT Women’s Committee, or to
president. Those words underscored a statewide workers’ advocate. Women’s committees are impor- learn how to start a NYSUT Women’s
the “PowHERful” theme of the 2020 Reardon advised speaking up, be- tant because they’re an “opportunity Committee chapter in your local, visit
NYSUT Women’s Committee meet- ing heard and getting comfortable for members to feel connected to nysut.org/women.
ing in November, a virtual weekend with power, not undercutting it with their local,” said Rose, co-founder
focused on raising awareness about humor or apologies. of NYSUT Women of Long
the challenges women face and “Treat men the same way you treat Island. “For women who
learning how to support and em- women,” she said urging listeners to don’t want to run for of-
power the next generation of female empower the next female vice presi- fice, it’s another way to get
leaders. dent or president. “We have as much involved.”
Session topics included recogniz- right to be there as anyone else.” NYSUT President Andy
ing and preventing human traffick- DiBrango and committee co- Pallotta, Second Vice
ing; disparities and implicit biases in chairs Aisha Cook, New Rochelle
women’s health care; fostering girls’ Federation of United School
and women’s interest in science Employees, and Leslie Rose, Hewlett-
and math; and understanding how Woodmere Faculty Association,
intersectionality — overlapping dif- advocated amplifying women’s
ferences in gender, race and class voices and harnessing their power as
— impacts discrimination. In an art educators, leaders and activists.
session, participants used images Speaking up in difficult times is
and words to visually document their particularly important. “People as-
strengths. sume that when you’re quiet, you’re
New York State Department ok,” said Cook who established the
of Labor Commissioner Roberta first NYSUT Women’s Committee
Reardon’s keynote address detailed in her local and is an AFT Women’s
how she rose from a traditional Committee member. “A fear of being In one exercise, Women’s Committee members
upbringing to co-found and lead viewed negatively keeps many girls use art to document their strengths.
www.nysut.org January/February 2021 |7
[ SOCIAL JUSTICE ]
Union food drives filling in the gaps
By Liza Frenette September was in line for her family and hall monitors. NYSUT Executive Vice President
liza.frenette@nysut.org and a neighbor. “They’re angry this has hap- Jolene DiBrango, Secretary-Treasurer
One man lost his job due to the pened,” she said as a car drove up Philippe Abraham, and Second Vice
O
ne car at a time. One need pandemic. His unemployment is due for food and co-workers shouted President Ron Gross, loaded food
to end Dec. 26. greetings. into boxes in the morning hours
at a time. The cars wound
While drivers waited, volunteers NYSUT worked with the Regional before the food drives opened.
around corners and
loaded boxes of frozen chicken, let- Food Bank and Catholic Charities One teacher waiting for food had
orange cones. Each car had its trunk
tuce, potato salad, potatoes, eggs, to stage the drive-thru pantries in to take a year absence to care for
popped up, waiting to pick up food.
oranges, brussel sprouts, sausages, Latham, Schenectady and Albany, her son with special needs because
Two large-scale drive-thru food
and fresh fruit. coordinating with the Schenectady COVID-19 has prevented access to
pantries and several small ones
“Schenectady lost 440 staff, and Federation of Teachers, Albany both full-time in-school classes and
sponsored by NYSUT and other la-
Albany lost more than 200. This is for Public School Teachers Association day care.
bor, religious and civic organizations
them, and for members of our com- and Albany Public School United “Essentially I’ve lost a year of pay,”
helped more than 1,000 families.
munity in need of food,” said NYSUT Employees. she said, the worry lines on her fore-
Local unions have also held regional
President Andy Pallotta, dropping “All of us need to do what we head visible over her mask.
food drives on Long Island and in
frozen chickens into the boxes. “It’s can … and that little thing is going to “I see the need in my community,
Rochester.
powerful and inspiring.” change the world,” said Sister Betsy and in some of my members,” said
“I’m here for my mom and dad,”
Sonya Flowers, president of Van Deusen, director of community volunteer Pamela Malone, NYSUT
said the driver of one car waiting
Albany Public School United partnerships for Catholic Charities. Board member and Empire State
to get food at the snow-covered
Employees, stood in solidarity at The food and mobile van outreach College chapter president for UUP,
Saratoga County Fairgrounds. “For
a drive-thru food pantry that she has been setting up 10 events a the SUNY higher education union
them to even ask, it’s a big thing.”
helped set up at the Albany Labor month in a 14-county region — up for faculty and professional staff.
The Saratoga event fed 450
Temple with NYSUT. More than 100 from one a month — providing “Labor is always ready to help the
families. The next drive-thru, held
of her members have been laid off: resources for health care, case man- community.”
at NYSUT headquarters, fed 900
PHOTOS: ANDREW WATSON
home-school coordinators, mainte- agement, unemployment and more.
families — many of them out-of-work
educators and school staffers. nance workers, teaching assistants
A local school bus driver who was
Union-sponsored drive-thru food pantries
without her job from March until help feed hundreds of families. Left, NYSUT
President Andy Pallotta prepares boxes
for donation. Far right, NYSUT Second Vice
President Ron Gross loads food into a trunk
during a NYSUT food drive-thru.
EL-WISE NOISETTE
8| January/February 2021 Official Publication of NYSUT
[ SOCIAL JUSTICE ]
Multicultural leaders discuss
next steps post-election
By Kara Smith people and we can’t
kara.smith@nysut.org have another lost year for
students,” he said. “Our
W
e showed up. We voted. young people were out
Now what? all summer — and those
The questions were folks voted for change.”
the focus of a December “Many As the smallest ethnic
Threads, One Fabric” event, the third group within the multicul-
in a series of NYSUT and AFT virtual tural coalition, Cournoyer
town halls exploring racial justice, asked for continued
diversity and equity issues. In the inclusion for Native
wake of the November general elec- Americans.
tion, which saw historic voter turnout “Invite us to the table,
in communities of color, panelists and include Natives in
discussed how to use that political your fight and advocacy,”
capital to improve the lives of multi- she said noting that the
cultural citizens. challenges those com-
Moderated by Lezli Baskerville, munities face — health
president and CEO of the National care and economic and
Association for Equal Opportunity educational inequity
in Higher Education, event panel- — mirror those of other
ists included Sindy Benavides, CEO, minority groups. “It’s ex-
League of United Latin American citing to look outside our
Citizens; Diana Cournoyer, executive Native nation — let’s help
director, National Indian Education each other.”
Association; Fedrick Ingram, sec- Wong believes that
retary-treasurer for the American the best way to heal the
Federation of Teachers; and Kent nation after four years of
Wong, director of the UCLA Labor division is to envision a
Center and vice president of the multiracial democracy
California Federation of Teachers. based on the values
J. Philippe Abraham, NYSUT of economic and
secretary-treasurer, whose office social justice. “The
Panelists from across the country discuss how communities of color can use their political capital to improve multiracial coalition
handles social justice issues, wel-
conditions for citiziens who too often feel disenfranchised. Visit nysut.org/socialjustice to learn more about the
comed panelists. scored a tremendous
union’s social justice initiatives.
“We knocked on doors, we phone victory,” he said. “Now we
banked and we made our voices can’t be what we can’t see. We need need to collectively celebrate
Baskerville, noting that in communi-
heard,” said Abraham. “The question more leaders who represent our and build on what that means for the
ties of color, one in four children face
is how do we as unionists sustain communities.” country. We need to lift up the hopes
food insecurity and unemployment
those efforts, to advance the rights Ingram called for harnessing the and aspirations of all people of color
continues to rise.
of workers and immigrants and to energy of young activists to keep the and conscience and organize toward
“We need a stimulus pack-
advocate for social justice.” pressure on lawmakers, and adopt- a future grounded in our common
age, not just testing and vaccines,
The COVID-19 pandemic drove ing a national approach to COVID-19, values.”
because people are struggling,”
voter turnout. “It brought the said Benavides. A real solution for including a blueprint for keeping
inequalities in health care, econom- immigration and diverse cabinet ap- schools open safely. “The piecemeal
ics and education to the fore,” said pointments are also important. “We strategy isn’t fair to the American
www.nysut.org January/February 2021 |9
[ OUR SRP S ]
Getting to know ... Mary Smith
Mary Smith is a food service worker and How do you make a difference?
member of the Syracuse Teachers Association. I feel I make a difference because we are some
She was interviewed by Mark Warner, a Unit 8 SRP of the first people the students see and interact
Director with the Syracuse TA and a member of the with as they start their day. We provide the nutri-
NYSUT SRP Advisory Committee. tion and a smile that will start the day off on the
right foot and a full belly to help them stay focused
Tell me about your job and why you love throughout the day. COVID-19 has affected me in
what you do. a few ways, including having my extra hours cut.
I work in the kitchen prepping, preparing and This not only affects me financially, but I miss the
serving food to the students at the Syracuse Latin face-to-face interaction with the students and be-
School. ing assured that they are getting the hot meals and
I love my job because I love to feed people. nutrition they need and require. This is so much
Nutrition plays a very important part of the more than a job for me.
students’ learning experience. I feel I provide a re-
source to the children to help them learn and grow What do you do outside of work?
to their fullest potential. One of my biggest joys is My community involvement comes from me
that I can watch them grow from kindergarten to working with my own children. We are involved in
MARK WARNER
graduation. cheerleading, marching band and Girl Scouts.
I am a proud member of my union and support My favorite hobbies are cooking, baking and
my brothers and sisters whenever I can. spending quality time with my family and friends.
Christine_Sartory @oceansidereads
Talk about hidden heroes? Happy SRP Day to the
OUTSTANDING Tech Department. Eileen Malin is
School-Related Professionals were out on assignment. #srprecognitionday #srpsrock
Ashleigh Wilson @AWilsonESM
honored on Nov. 17, New York State Don Carlisto, president, “Muffin’ to do but appreciate you!”
School-Related Professionals Saranac Lake Central Thanks to our amazing School
Teachers Association: Related Professionals that play a vital
Appreciation Day, with giveaways,
“Teachers and SRPs role at PG! #esmPGproud #grateful
magnets, posters and treats. Here are helped colleagues in #SRPRecognitionDay @npetranchuk
a few highlights from the celebrations the bus garage who had to @spkowalski @peaceandcrunchy
and some examples of SRPs’ hard work quarantine after a worker had a positive @PineGroveLib Orange heart Blue
going above and beyond in response COVID test. A call for volunteers went heart
to the COVID-19 pandemic: out to help deliver meals on delivery
day for about 175 families, including
the delivery of about 40 turkey dinners.
Chris Horstman, Without transportation staff, this delivery
president, Ithaca Jon Hickey @jhickey62
was only possible with volunteers and
City School Thank you to all of our School
use of their own personal vehicles.”
District Employees Related Professionals. Not a
Association, bus single school would be open
driver: Hilda Monfredo, SRP EVP, right now without these dedicated
“We make sure that students Western Sullivan United members. They are our frontline
have a meal no matter what. We Teachers and School-Related workers & usually don’t get the thanks and respect
have made sure students have Personnel: they deserve. #ThisShouldBeMoreThanOneDay
materials they need for virtual “For our hybrid schedule, #SRPRecognitionDay #nysutsrp
learning, and we do not see it teacher aides call students on the
slowing down. Bus drivers and days they are not scheduled to come in to Andre L Mathis @amathis87
bus aides — working between make sure they are OK, and to see if they “As much as it takes a village to raise a child. It takes All Staff to educate
bus runs and on weekends — have problems with their assignments. Our a student. Happy #SRPRecognitionDay to my fellow SRPs. Thank you for
accomplish this task.” TAs speak to all the students who are fully your dedication and commitment to making your district just a little bit better.”
remote daily and help them with questions #SRPsRock @nysut
and problems.”
10 | January/February 2021 Official Publication of NYSUT[ TEACHING & LEARNING ]
Higher ed unions committed to finding solutions
By Ned Hoskin crisis, especially the community col- in November. SUNY raises were de- autonomous locals have been shar-
ned.hoskin@nysut.org leges,” said NYSUT President Andy layed in September and October. ing strategies as they negotiate with
Pallotta. Gathering SUNY officials, “Attempting to balance the their employers. Most of the locals
T
he budget stinks, and local college presidents and labor budget on the backs of modestly have reached agreements, she said.
everybody knows the leaders from the campuses is invalu- paid public employees is a losing At SUNY four-year campuses,
budget stinks,” said recently able. “Things have changed, and fiscal strategy, and a cruel one,” said United University Professions has
appointed SUNY Chancellor Jim with labor and management working Professional Staff Congress President released spring semester safety
Malatras, laying it on the line as together, we present a unified mes- Barbara Bowen. The state has failed guidelines to stem the spread of
more than 50 stakeholders met for sage to policymakers,” he said. to increase revenue by taxing the coronavirus once classes restart in
NYSUT’s annual community college The threat of 20 percent funding ultra-rich, she said, “preferring February.
summit to prepare for the upcoming cuts this winter loom large, if more instead to shift costs to workers.” PSC “Our report offers the strongest
legislative session. funding cannot be secured. It may is demanding that the chancellor possible set of guidelines for SUNY
“I think we can all unite in the be impossible in the spring to avoid rethink his plan. to keep students, faculty and staff,
theme that we need more federal departmental cuts and larger classes. At the December summit, Roberta and surrounding communities safe,”
aid,” he said. Previous delays of 20 percent this Elins, president of the United College said UUP President Fred Kowal. “The
Participants agreed that federal year have already caused cuts and Employees/Fashion Institute of recommendations are built upon
pandemic relief is long overdue, but disruptions. Technology, discussed the impor- lessons learned from the fall semester
that recovery will require enhanced Meanwhile, in New York City, tance of reaching agreement with and the excellent work that SUNY has
revenue at the state level, as well. the City University — which earlier each community college’s adminis- done since the arrival of Chancellor
“New York has been hit very hard laid off 2,900 adjuncts — failed to tration on campus COVID-19 testing. Malatras.”
by the pandemic and the economic honor a contractual pay increase Elins said CC union leaders for the
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www.nysut.org January/February 2021 | 11[ TEACHING & LEARNING ]
An unexpected group questions
NYSUT joins call for more
student teacher placements
teacher rating this year
New York State faces an ongoing By Sylvia Saunders prioritizing student well-being, accept variance applications for the
teacher shortage. To boost the sylvia.saunders@nysut.org teacher wellness and family engage- rest of the school year.
teacher preparation pipeline, NYSUT ment in the 2020–21 school year. Districts will still have to follow
joined the Conference of Big 5
W
At recent Board of Regents meet- state law on minimum APPR require-
School Districts, the New York State ith the pandemic
PTA and the School Administrators ings, State Education Department ments. However, many district plans
upending every aspect
Association of New York State officials acknowledged that many currently require more. Variances
of education, one of
in a December push for districts school districts are concerned about could temporarily include: reducing
the pioneers of a nationally known
to provide more student teacher teacher evaluations because they the number of observations (if more
teacher evaluation system suggests
opportunities. use state assessments to measure than two are required); revising the
Student teacher placements are this is not the year to be focusing on
the student performance category student performance measure; and
in short supply since many schools teacher ratings.
for Annual Professional Performance changing unannounced observa-
offer only remote learning or hybrid “Teachers need support, not
Reviews. tions to be announced. Variances
instruction due to the coronavirus scores,” says The Danielson Group,
pandemic. The board has not yet decided must be approved by SED and in
explaining why its remote teaching
“Student teaching is a manda- guide includes no teacher evalua-
whether state assessments will be compliance with Education Law.
tory path to teacher certification held this year but have made it clear The Regents and SED do not have
tion rubric. “Now is not the time to
in New York State,” said Jolene that if any tests are administered, they the power to halt APPR this year. That
DiBrango, NYSUT executive vice be thinking about how to evaluate
must be in-person in school build- would require an Executive Order
president. “Additionally, student teacher performance in a new and
ings. Last school year’s state exams from the governor, or a new state
teachers can provide crucial class- fluid context. This moment compels
were canceled due to the pandemic. law approved by the Legislature and
room support for teachers during us to pause and engage in a thought-
To give districts flexibility on APPR, governor.
this challenging time.” ful reset on our approaches to
Betty Rosa, interim State SED is allowing districts to
teacher support.”
Education Department com- While the union and many educa-
use the variance process for
missioner, and the state Board COVID-19-related temporary
tors have voiced similar concerns,
of Regents agreed, issuing a changes to APPR plans. Any
December guidance document this is an unexpected move from The
changes must be locally
encouraging districts to accept Danielson Group, whose four-level
negotiated.
student teachers as a means to “Framework for Teaching” evaluation
In response to NYSUT
replace retiring teachers and to ad- rubric serves as a model for many
dress shortage areas. concerns, the Regents voted
school districts across the country.
The State University of New York in December to continue to
It’s the basis of New York’s HEDI
anticipates that New York will need
rating system, standing for Highly
at least 180,000 teachers in the
Effective, Effective, Developing and
next decade. However, enrollment
in New York’s teacher education Ineffective.
programs has fallen by roughly “The school year
50 percent since 2009. The state ahead will be like
Teachers’ Retirement System no other before it
projects that one-third of the state’s and, we hope, like
teachers could retire in the next five no other after it,” the
years.
group’s Framework
Diversity is also a concern. While
43 percent of students statewide for Remote Teaching
are Latinx or Black, just 16 percent guide’s introduction
of teachers are. The state Board says. Referencing
of Regents released data in 2019 both the pandemic
showing that more than 200 school and today’s focus on
districts statewide do not employ racial justice issues,
any teachers of color. the guide suggests
12 | January/February 2021 Official Publication of NYSUT[ TEACHING & LEARNING ]
Educators say ‘new normal’
is not sustainable ONLINE SAFETY IS KEY
By Sylvia Saunders school community tests positive for Leaders also noted the lack of uni- With so many hours each day now
sylvia.saunders@nysut.org COVID-19. formity among districts and schools devoted to online teaching, learning
is clearly hurting morale. While some
and communicating with students,
The uncertainty is taking its
A
NYSUT reminds members to stay
toll, leaders said. As COVID cases schools allow educators to teach
s districts cope with spiking sharp on basic online safety.
COVID-19 cases and crip- spiked throughout November and remotely from their homes, others The American Federation of
pling staff shortages, union December, a growing number of require that staff report to school to Teachers has compiled a list of
schools shifted back and forth be- stream lessons. “It’s insulting,” said resources where educators can easily
members urged NYSUT to keep up
tween in-person/hybrid schedules to one elementary teacher, who must access information on cyberbullying,
the pressure for increased safety privacy, how to protect your identity,
fully remote. Others extended remote report to her empty classroom.
measures and more social-emotional and digital citizenship, among other
support for staff. instruction into January and beyond. With so many educators in and out issues. Visit aft.org/online-safety-
“The push is to keep schools open With so many chaotic schedul- of quarantine and a severe shortage and-cyberbullying-resources.
— not keep them safe,” said Joanna ing changes and hybrid versions, of substitutes, some districts have For school social workers who
many members are struggling with shifted to fully remote because they may be providing telemental health
Monachino-Orlando, Shenendehowa
childcare issues, said Schenectady simply don’t have enough staff. services, the New York State School
Teachers Association. Social Workers Association recom-
“I worry that COVID-19 has
“Teachers are performing miracles mends avoiding social media, person-
at great personal cost,” said Burnt increased the inequity around the al cellphones or personal emails to
Hills-Ballston Lake leader Mike state,” said Benaquisto, whose dis- connect with students or families. For
trict depends significantly on more info, visit nyssswa.org/
Mosall. “It’s not sustainable.”
state aid. “Our district went coronavirus-school-response-
The two were among many resources/telemental-health-
who spoke out recently in remote because of sav-
school-social-work-services/.
a series of online union ings. We also struggle With many people using Zoom to
meetings, including with the digital divide.” connect virtually, it’s important to
NYSUT’s Policy Council, The pandemic “has know how to keep uninvited guests
also brought to light out — using a waiting room is recom-
Subject Area committees
the terrible condition of mended. Find more tips at blog.
and BOCES Leadership zoom.us/keep-uninvited-guests-
school buildings,” said
Council. out-of-your-zoom-event/.
Clearly moved by the Newburgh TA’s Lourdes
first-hand reports from the Lopez-Romero. Clarence
field, NYSUT officers said their TA President Elizabeth ongoing social and emotional sup-
comments will help shape the Dunne agreed, asking why the ports for staff.
statewide union’s ongoing advocacy state’s ventilation standards are “Educators are hurting,” DiBrango
with the governor’s office, state legis- more stringent for malls than school wrote in a blog after the meetings.
lators, the Department of Health and buildings. “Pandemic teaching and learning
State Education Department. Federation of Teachers President “The pandemic has also shown us is hard, exhausting and some days
“We’re going to keep pushing Juliet Benaquisto. “It would be a we need to have something in place nearly impossible.”
back,” said NYSUT President Andy little easier if schedules were more for (staff) burnout,” said Dora Leland, She said it’s essential for districts
Pallotta. aligned,” she said. a Horseheads TA leader and NYSUT to make social-emotional support
NYSUT members from around Union leaders also urged NYSUT Board member. ”In the last four for staff a priority for the new year.
the state shared poignant stories to advocate for the state to cancel months, we’ve had members who “Educators need time to plan, time
of how difficult it is to keep up with this year’s Regents Exams and are sobbing — and they do not feel to collaborate and time to share how
ever-changing state protocols grades 3–8 assessments. “We’re half- supported. Social-emotional support things are really going,” DiBrango
for COVID-19 — and the varying way through the year and there are does not mean shooting us an EAP said. “They need real help and real
implementation by local school big differences in how kids are learn- video to watch.” solutions to tackle the challenges
districts. Many voiced concerns ing,” said North Syracuse Education NYSUT Executive Vice President they are facing, so they can be at their
about the wide range of quarantine Association’s Joanne Thornton. Jolene DiBrango agreed, noting that best for the students they care so
policies, testing protocols and a lack “Teachers and students need to SED’s reopening guidance clearly deeply about.”
of notification when someone in the know; what will finals look like?” specifies that districts must provide
www.nysut.org January/February 2021 | 1314 | January/February 2021 Official Publication of NYSUT
[ TEACHING & LEARNING ]
Educators share lessons learned on
remote/hybrid teaching
By Sylvia Saunders chart paper is also invaluable. approach, including subtitles, im- “Thank you for that See-Think-
sylvia.saunders@nysut.org “Always have a lesson plan in your ages and multiple screens. If you are Wonder graphic organizer!” said
back pocket,” Martelli said. “We’re doing breakout rooms, give clear Coxsackie TA’s Joshua Pray.
E
ven the most experienced in a blended model and we always instructions on what’s expected. Kenmore TA’s Mary Lynn Bieron, said
educators feel like first-year have to be ready to go (fully) remote Hassenpflug also urged partici- teaching remotely can be very isolat-
teachers this year. with less than 12 hours notice.” pants to work through their union to ing. “Sometimes it’s just nice to see/
While there’s no teacher’s manual Newburgh TA’s Kathleen Young, a advocate for training and raise con- hear that across the state we are all in
for today’s blended/hybrid learning physical education teacher, said it’s cerns. “Know your contract,” he said. this together!”
environment, hundreds of educators important to keep social-emotional During question-and-answer NYSUT Executive Vice President
from around the state shared practi- needs front and center — for both periods, participants talked about Jolene DiBrango said the union of-
cal tips and support during a series educators and students. the importance of informing parents fered the free webinars at the request
of free online webinars sponsored by “Turn off emails at the end of the if students aren’t working, keep- of members, who said they needed
NYSUT’s Education & Learning Trust. day. Set alarms for start and finish ing grades up to date and ensuring practical training they could use
“Some days are more about sur- times,” Young said. “Be patient with school counselors are in the loop. immediately. “These sessions really
vival than academic achievement,” yourself and the students.” Participants shared dozens of online filled a critical need,” DiBrango said.
said Kurt Hassenpflug, an ELA/ENL The sessions were divided into tools and resources such as the “They’ve also served as a power-
teacher and North Colonie Teachers two parts. In the first session, panel- Teachers Pay Teachers website, ful support system. It’s essential for
Association member who served as ists discussed how to weave struc- Book Creator and Class Dojo. A us to lean on each other and share
one of the panelists. “I feel more like ture and routines into a chaotic day. group of Long Island science teach- resources to make the daily instruc-
Sisyphus than Hercules.” The second session offered sugges- ers have created an online collection tional load a little less challenging.”
Hassenpflug was one of three tions for engaging assignments and of lesson materials for middle school
teachers on the ELT panel who purposeful formative assessments, and high school courses.
TECH TROUBLES?
offered a wide range of helpful tips trouble shooting technology and Throughout the sessions, partici-
When in doubt, restart
during the sessions in November and modifying instruction for different pants used the online chat to share
devices.
December. learners. more suggestions and thank present-
Is it charged? Even if it is, try plugging
To get out in front of that “Wait, ers for their recommendations.
Looking for a more effective way it in anyway.
what are we doing?”
to communicate with parents? Use Hold down the power button longer
loom.com to create quick videos constant question during than you think you need to.
explaining assignments. Want to instruction, Hassenpflug Try switching the device into airplane
create animated GIFs? Try https:// suggested a mode; leave it for a minute, then
gifcap.dev/. multi-modal switch it out. This resets the Wi-Fi
and Bluetooth radios built into most
Presenter Kira Martelli, a sixth-
devices.
grade teacher and Massapequa
Have a pre-established plan for what
Federation of Teachers member,
students will work on when WiFi goes
offered helpful tips on staying mobile down or there are tech troubles.
for teachers traveling from classroom
to classroom, such as using an apron,
a backpack and a cart. Stick-on big
For more ELT courses and
seminars, go to https://
If you missed NYSUT’s two-part bit.ly/WebBasedTools
webinar series “Teaching in Blended
& Hybrid Models,” video recordings and
resources are posted at nysut.org/
hybrid. You’ll find tech tips and a
collection of recommended online
apps, from gamified quizzes to
actors reading stories.
www.nysut.org January/February 2021 | 15You can also read
