RA 2022 celebrates 50 years, and plans for future
“We stand on the shoulders of giants!” said President Andy Pallotta in his address to more than 1,300 delegates as he kicked off the 50th annual NYSUT Representative Assembly at the Albany Capital Center. It was a weekend for delegates to celebrate the history and look to the future. Attendees acted on dozens of resolutions to set a course for action, including a move to support Ukraine in its struggle against the Russian invasion. Gov. Hochul, Comptroller DiNapoli, AG Tish James and more special guests inspired the gathering. Go to nysut.org/ra for full coverage and links to videos, photos and the business of the convention.
(Above: NYSUT Second VP Ron Gross, Exec VP Jolene DiBrango, President Andy Pallotta, Executive Director Melinda Person and Secretary-Treasurer Philippe Abraham pose at the RA with a billboard promoting NYSUT's upcoming Public Schools Unite Us campaign.)
NYSUT experts monitoring budget news
Gov. Hochul announced an agreement to finalize the $220 billion 2022–23 state budget Thursday and lawmakers have been building the various bills. They began voting on parts of it Friday. NYSUT anticipates some of our recommendations in the Future Forward report to be addressed in the fiscal plan. The union’s legislative reps are monitoring the arrival of the budget and members can check nysut.org soon for updates.
Members earn profession’s “highest credential”
NYSUT and the State Education Department this week co-hosted an online celebration of NY's national board certified teachers. Speakers urged the state's newest NBCT's to serve as change agents, advocate on issues, mentor novice teachers and support colleagues pursuing the national credential.
More news
- State tests continue, and NYSUT has posted updated opt-out Fact Sheets. Our Correct the Tests site has been updated, as well. Please share your thoughts.
- Do you know an SRP who goes above and beyond to serve their community? Help us identify NYSUT SRP heroes for a series of posters we can share with lawmakers. Fill out this form to nominate your own local super hero.
- NYSUT has scheduled more of its popular Student Debt Webinars. Register online for one of the following dates: April 14, 26 and May 10, 26.
- Eligible educators can deduct up to $250 of qualified expenses you paid in 2021.
- A little good news! White House extends student loan debt moratorium until Aug. 31.
- NYSUT’s Program/Retiree Services offers apparel for sale to retired members and local in-service members. Online direct purchasing of “Union for Life” apparel is available through April 17.
- Art teachers: Deadlines approach for students working on projects for NYSUT’s virtual art show June 5. The deadline is April 26 for submissions in visual arts, theater, music and media, and May 11 for dance.
- Here’s the registration information and agenda for the Professional Issues Forum on Health Care to be held May 7 via Zoom.
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