NWTA News and Events
March 2024 APPR Update
MEMORANDUM
TO: NYSUT Board of Directors; NYSUT Local Presidents
FROM: Melinda Person, NYSUT President
DATE: March 21, 2024
SUBJECT: APPR Update
We’ve been waiting for this day for 14 years.
Yesterday, I joined New York State Education Department Commissioner Dr. Betty Rosa to deliver legislation to the State Senate and Assembly that would fix the teacher evaluation system in New York. We walked from the State Education Department building to the Legislative Office Building to hand-deliver a new bill rewriting New York state’s flawed teacher evaluation system.
When this legislation is approved, the revamped APPR system would end the current requirement that student test scores be included in teacher assessments and would return teacher evaluations to local control.
Returning teacher evaluations to local control will allow educators to again put the emphasis back on what matters most in our classrooms — teaching and learning.
We worked collaboratively to put this bill together and we are so proud to have delivered it to lawmakers. In this document, you will find a brief summary of the drafted legislation. In the coming weeks, we will be calling on all of you to contact your legislators to ensure this bill is passed and signed into law this year.
Thank you for your ongoing and tireless dedication to your members and students and your advocacy for this change. Without you, we would not have come this far.
MEMORANDUM
TO: NYSUT Board of Directors; NYSUT Local Presidents
FROM: Melinda Person, NYSUT President
DATE: March 21, 2024
SUBJECT: APPR Update
We’ve been waiting for this day for 14 years.
Yesterday, I joined New York State Education Department Commissioner Dr. Betty Rosa to deliver legislation to the State Senate and Assembly that would fix the teacher evaluation system in New York. We walked from the State Education Department building to the Legislative Office Building to hand-deliver a new bill rewriting New York state’s flawed teacher evaluation system.
When this legislation is approved, the revamped APPR system would end the current requirement that student test scores be included in teacher assessments and would return teacher evaluations to local control.
Returning teacher evaluations to local control will allow educators to again put the emphasis back on what matters most in our classrooms — teaching and learning.
We worked collaboratively to put this bill together and we are so proud to have delivered it to lawmakers. In this document, you will find a brief summary of the drafted legislation. In the coming weeks, we will be calling on all of you to contact your legislators to ensure this bill is passed and signed into law this year.
Thank you for your ongoing and tireless dedication to your members and students and your advocacy for this change. Without you, we would not have come this far.
March 2024 Fact Sheet 24-5: Update to the NYS Mandated Reporter Training
MEMORANDUM
TO: NYSUT Board of Directors
NYSUT Local Presidents
FROM: Melinda Person, NYSUT President
DATE: March 19, 2024
SUBJECT: Fact Sheet 24-5: Update to the NYS Mandated Reporter Training
Dear Local Leader,
In 2021, New York State, as part of the Enacted Budget (Chapter 56 of the Laws of 2021), updated the mandated child abuse training and required all mandated reporters to complete the revised training by April 1, 2025.
Please see the NYSUT Fact Sheet, prepared by the NYSUT Research & Educational Department, for further details.
Questions on this issue, may be directed to Glenn Jeffers at [email protected].
In solidarity,
Melinda
MEMORANDUM
TO: NYSUT Board of Directors
NYSUT Local Presidents
FROM: Melinda Person, NYSUT President
DATE: March 19, 2024
SUBJECT: Fact Sheet 24-5: Update to the NYS Mandated Reporter Training
Dear Local Leader,
In 2021, New York State, as part of the Enacted Budget (Chapter 56 of the Laws of 2021), updated the mandated child abuse training and required all mandated reporters to complete the revised training by April 1, 2025.
Please see the NYSUT Fact Sheet, prepared by the NYSUT Research & Educational Department, for further details.
Questions on this issue, may be directed to Glenn Jeffers at [email protected].
In solidarity,
Melinda
November 2023 NYSUT Alert - NYSUT's More Teaching, Less Testing Task Force Report Released
With momentum building across the state and nation to rethink the flawed standardized assessment systems that are limiting our students, NYSUT today released a report outlining new recommendations for state and federal policy makers.
The NYSUT More Teaching Less Testing Task Force was convened after the passage of the “More Teaching, Less Testing,” resolution at the 2023 NYSUT Representative Assembly. The Task Force met throughout the summer and fall to examine how classrooms might look, sound and feel without high-stakes testing. The members were also asked to identify recommendations that could improve and diversify the manner in which we evaluate college and career readiness.
Key proposals include:
1. Providing for additional pathways to graduation that do not rely solely on Regents exams, such as capstone projects, experiential and project-based learning, and career and technical education programs.
2. Fixing the flawed grades 3-8 assessment system by revising the content and structure of the exams and delinking the test results from teacher evaluations.
3. Revising the federal testing requirements through the proposed More Teaching Less Testing Act with flexibility for states to make the exams more reasonable, useful and less stressful on students. This would allow for a return to a grade-span testing approach or the option to use representative sampling.
We know that the modern workforce relies on skills like communication, collaboration, and ability to work as part of a team — skills not necessarily measured by a standardized test. When it’s time to graduate, students should have multiple options to show they are ready.
These recommendations build upon NYSUT’s firm and longstanding position that overreliance on standardized testing forces a “teach to the test” model that strips the joy of learning and teaching from our classrooms. If adopted, these policies would revamp our federal and state assessment systems to better support students’ natural curiosity and authentic education.
The full report and recommendations can be found at https://nysut.cc/moreteaching.
NYSUT’s press release is available at: https://www.nysut.org/news/2023/november/media-release-testing.
Thank you to our Task Force members for their dedication to this important work.
In solidarity,
Melinda and Jaime
October 14, 2023 NYSUT Making Strides
The NYSUT sponsored Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk will be held:
-Saturday, October 14th at the Lakeside Bike Path (825 Fuhrmann Blvd, Buffalo 14201).
-Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. and the Walk begins at 10:00 a.m.
-ALL are welcome to attend. We had a huge group of NHS students attend last year. It was a beautiful day and we walked with our friends and loved ones in mind who have been affected by breast cancer.
-Please consider joining us .... you will not regret it. If you would like to donate, please click below.
Donate Here
June 2023 Free professional development seminar
We are pleased to be joining with the Rochester Regional office to offer free professional development sessions in the upcoming months from NYSUT’s Education & Learning Trust (ELT). These are sessions available at no cost for teachers and SRPs who are NYSUT members.
To register and see the list of classes just click on this link: NYSUT Rochester/Western NY Learning Center. These sessions are remote through Zoom.
Please share this information with your members. We encouarge our members to take advantage of this great program.
June 2023 Wildfires
SUBJECT: Statement on actions to protect students from wildfire smoke
See below for today's statement from NYSUT regarding air quality concerns across New York State:
Keeping children safe is the No. 1 priority for all educators. As smoke and haze from wildfires in Canada blanket much of New York state, increasing the danger for those who suffer from asthma and other ailments, actions by the governor and school districts to limit outdoor activities are not just prudent, they are potentially lifesaving.
These conditions can also greatly increase chances of heart attacks and other medical incidents for those who work outside such as maintenance and ground crews. We urge school district and community officials to refer to guidance from the state health department and take the needed precautions based on local conditions.
Below are some important resources to help in this situation:
June 2023 Juneteenth Event
Flyer
November 2022 Student Debt Webinar
Below you will find the updated schedule for NYSUT Student Debt Webinars. Please share this information with your membership.
Webinars are led by our partners at Cambridge Credit Counseling and are designed to help NYSUT members better understand the various student loan repayment options with a focus on Teacher Loan Cancellation and Public Student Loan Forgiveness programs. This workshop will also address the recent federal student loan forgiveness program.
Below are the clinics that are currently open for registration:
May 2022 Scholarship Winners
The NWTA Scholarship Committee is happy to announce the 2022 scholarship winners: Franklin Merlo, Cassidy Ohol, Sarah Wikander, and Nicolette Faller.
Franklin Merlo and Cassidy Ohol are the Clark-Foster Scholarship winners. Franklin will be attending the University at Buffalo studying Mechanical Engineering with plans on designing amusement park rides. Cassidy will be attending RIT majoring in Museum Studies with plans an becoming a museum curator.
Out two NWTA Scholarship winners are Sarah Wikander and Nicolette Faller. Sarah will be attending St. John Fisher College majoring in Inclusive Childhood Education. Nicolette will be attending Geneseo and majoring in Psychology.
Please join us in congratulating these outstanding students. All our scholarship candidates were exceptional and articulate!
Thank you to all union members who contribute to the NWTA scholarship fund. Without your generosity, we would not be able to offer these four scholarships every year!!
With momentum building across the state and nation to rethink the flawed standardized assessment systems that are limiting our students, NYSUT today released a report outlining new recommendations for state and federal policy makers.
The NYSUT More Teaching Less Testing Task Force was convened after the passage of the “More Teaching, Less Testing,” resolution at the 2023 NYSUT Representative Assembly. The Task Force met throughout the summer and fall to examine how classrooms might look, sound and feel without high-stakes testing. The members were also asked to identify recommendations that could improve and diversify the manner in which we evaluate college and career readiness.
Key proposals include:
1. Providing for additional pathways to graduation that do not rely solely on Regents exams, such as capstone projects, experiential and project-based learning, and career and technical education programs.
2. Fixing the flawed grades 3-8 assessment system by revising the content and structure of the exams and delinking the test results from teacher evaluations.
3. Revising the federal testing requirements through the proposed More Teaching Less Testing Act with flexibility for states to make the exams more reasonable, useful and less stressful on students. This would allow for a return to a grade-span testing approach or the option to use representative sampling.
We know that the modern workforce relies on skills like communication, collaboration, and ability to work as part of a team — skills not necessarily measured by a standardized test. When it’s time to graduate, students should have multiple options to show they are ready.
These recommendations build upon NYSUT’s firm and longstanding position that overreliance on standardized testing forces a “teach to the test” model that strips the joy of learning and teaching from our classrooms. If adopted, these policies would revamp our federal and state assessment systems to better support students’ natural curiosity and authentic education.
The full report and recommendations can be found at https://nysut.cc/moreteaching.
NYSUT’s press release is available at: https://www.nysut.org/news/2023/november/media-release-testing.
Thank you to our Task Force members for their dedication to this important work.
In solidarity,
Melinda and Jaime
October 14, 2023 NYSUT Making Strides
The NYSUT sponsored Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk will be held:
-Saturday, October 14th at the Lakeside Bike Path (825 Fuhrmann Blvd, Buffalo 14201).
-Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. and the Walk begins at 10:00 a.m.
-ALL are welcome to attend. We had a huge group of NHS students attend last year. It was a beautiful day and we walked with our friends and loved ones in mind who have been affected by breast cancer.
-Please consider joining us .... you will not regret it. If you would like to donate, please click below.
Donate Here
June 2023 Free professional development seminar
We are pleased to be joining with the Rochester Regional office to offer free professional development sessions in the upcoming months from NYSUT’s Education & Learning Trust (ELT). These are sessions available at no cost for teachers and SRPs who are NYSUT members.
To register and see the list of classes just click on this link: NYSUT Rochester/Western NY Learning Center. These sessions are remote through Zoom.
Please share this information with your members. We encouarge our members to take advantage of this great program.
June 2023 Wildfires
SUBJECT: Statement on actions to protect students from wildfire smoke
See below for today's statement from NYSUT regarding air quality concerns across New York State:
Keeping children safe is the No. 1 priority for all educators. As smoke and haze from wildfires in Canada blanket much of New York state, increasing the danger for those who suffer from asthma and other ailments, actions by the governor and school districts to limit outdoor activities are not just prudent, they are potentially lifesaving.
These conditions can also greatly increase chances of heart attacks and other medical incidents for those who work outside such as maintenance and ground crews. We urge school district and community officials to refer to guidance from the state health department and take the needed precautions based on local conditions.
Below are some important resources to help in this situation:
- Gov. Hochul's press release
- DOH Factsheet on health advisories
- DEC Fire Risk map
- DOH Air Quality Health Advisory
- Check the air quality index in your area
June 2023 Juneteenth Event
Flyer
November 2022 Student Debt Webinar
Below you will find the updated schedule for NYSUT Student Debt Webinars. Please share this information with your membership.
Webinars are led by our partners at Cambridge Credit Counseling and are designed to help NYSUT members better understand the various student loan repayment options with a focus on Teacher Loan Cancellation and Public Student Loan Forgiveness programs. This workshop will also address the recent federal student loan forgiveness program.
Below are the clinics that are currently open for registration:
- Wednesday, Nov. 30
- Tuesday, Dec. 13
- Tuesday, Jan. 10
May 2022 Scholarship Winners
The NWTA Scholarship Committee is happy to announce the 2022 scholarship winners: Franklin Merlo, Cassidy Ohol, Sarah Wikander, and Nicolette Faller.
Franklin Merlo and Cassidy Ohol are the Clark-Foster Scholarship winners. Franklin will be attending the University at Buffalo studying Mechanical Engineering with plans on designing amusement park rides. Cassidy will be attending RIT majoring in Museum Studies with plans an becoming a museum curator.
Out two NWTA Scholarship winners are Sarah Wikander and Nicolette Faller. Sarah will be attending St. John Fisher College majoring in Inclusive Childhood Education. Nicolette will be attending Geneseo and majoring in Psychology.
Please join us in congratulating these outstanding students. All our scholarship candidates were exceptional and articulate!
Thank you to all union members who contribute to the NWTA scholarship fund. Without your generosity, we would not be able to offer these four scholarships every year!!
May 2022 School Board Candidates
January 2022 Culturally Responsive Opportunities
Here are two great opportunities to support your efforts to be more inclusive and culturally responsive:
Speakers from the Jewish Faith on January 25- PLEASE RSVP BY 4:00 pm THIS MONDAY or it will be canceled.
High School Students to share about growing up Jewish-Tuesday, January 25 @3:45 on Zoom
Join us for a Zoom presentation to hear from some local high school students, from the "Student-to-Student" program sponsored by the Buffalo Jewish Federation. They will share about their experiences and talk about some basic beliefs of Judaism, general background and history, and tell us what they think their teachers could have done, or did do to be culturally responsive. The students usually present to other students, so you can also preview the presentation for your class. The presentation will be on Tuesday, January 25 from 3:45 and will be about an hour, including some time for questions. Please RSVP to Bea Arnone if you plan to attend so we can have an idea of the number of participants.
Inclusive Book Share- Tuesday, February 8 @ 3:45 on Zoom
Dear Teachers -
Looking for some fresh ideas to inspire your students? Please consider joining other NWTA members on Zoom for an "Inclusive Book Share" on Tuesday, February 8 from 3:45-4:30. K-5 Teachers across the district will be sharing some inclusive books they love reading and using in their classroom.
Email Brooke Harris with any questions or comments. We hope you will join us!
Here are two great opportunities to support your efforts to be more inclusive and culturally responsive:
Speakers from the Jewish Faith on January 25- PLEASE RSVP BY 4:00 pm THIS MONDAY or it will be canceled.
High School Students to share about growing up Jewish-Tuesday, January 25 @3:45 on Zoom
Join us for a Zoom presentation to hear from some local high school students, from the "Student-to-Student" program sponsored by the Buffalo Jewish Federation. They will share about their experiences and talk about some basic beliefs of Judaism, general background and history, and tell us what they think their teachers could have done, or did do to be culturally responsive. The students usually present to other students, so you can also preview the presentation for your class. The presentation will be on Tuesday, January 25 from 3:45 and will be about an hour, including some time for questions. Please RSVP to Bea Arnone if you plan to attend so we can have an idea of the number of participants.
Inclusive Book Share- Tuesday, February 8 @ 3:45 on Zoom
Dear Teachers -
Looking for some fresh ideas to inspire your students? Please consider joining other NWTA members on Zoom for an "Inclusive Book Share" on Tuesday, February 8 from 3:45-4:30. K-5 Teachers across the district will be sharing some inclusive books they love reading and using in their classroom.
Email Brooke Harris with any questions or comments. We hope you will join us!
February 2021 TRS Webinars
Due to the overwhelming response to the TRS Webinars that we recently announced, we have scheduled two additional webinars. You will find dates and registration links below. Please note all webinars will begin at 5:00 p.m. on their designated dates.
Sheila Buck, NYSUT endorsed board member of the New York State Teachers Retirement System, will present the workshop “What You Need to Know About the New York State Retirement System.”
This workshop is valuable to all teachers in a tier, but particularly for those planning retirement in the next ten years. Ms. Buck is extremely knowledgeable and is always well received by attendees of this annual workshop. Information regarding the retirement system in general, how to calculate your benefit, and decisions you need to make before you retire will be covered. All NYSUT members who are members of the NYSTRS are welcome to attend. Space is limited and registration is required.
The link to register for the April 19 event is: https://nysut.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jAj7MFy-Q1St9MST_8fScw
The link to register for the April 26 event is: https://nysut.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_LtEFyplERfmXLU4jLL7Xow
Please share this information with your members.
Regards,
Michael Deely
Regional Staff Director
Sheila Buck, NYSUT endorsed board member of the New York State Teachers Retirement System, will present the workshop “What You Need to Know About the New York State Retirement System.”
This workshop is valuable to all teachers in a tier, but particularly for those planning retirement in the next ten years. Ms. Buck is extremely knowledgeable and is always well received by attendees of this annual workshop. Information regarding the retirement system in general, how to calculate your benefit, and decisions you need to make before you retire will be covered. All NYSUT members who are members of the NYSTRS are welcome to attend. Space is limited and registration is required.
The link to register for the April 19 event is: https://nysut.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jAj7MFy-Q1St9MST_8fScw
The link to register for the April 26 event is: https://nysut.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_LtEFyplERfmXLU4jLL7Xow
Please share this information with your members.
Regards,
Michael Deely
Regional Staff Director
January 2021 Student Debt Clinics
This is a friendly reminder that NYSUT is continuing to offer Student Debt Clinics to our members.
Below are the clinics that are currently open for registration:
Tuesday, February 9, 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.
Thursday, February 25, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, March 9, 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.
Thursday, March 18, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, April 13, 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.
Thursday, April 22, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
All the links to register are here: https://studentloans.nysut.org/webinars
Below are the clinics that are currently open for registration:
Tuesday, February 9, 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.
Thursday, February 25, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, March 9, 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.
Thursday, March 18, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, April 13, 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.
Thursday, April 22, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
All the links to register are here: https://studentloans.nysut.org/webinars
January 2021 Vaccination links
Am I eligible link
Lockport Transit Drive in Link
ECC South Link
ECC North
Niagara Falls HS Field House link
Bowmansville Fire Station Link
UB South
Am I eligible link
Lockport Transit Drive in Link
ECC South Link
ECC North
Niagara Falls HS Field House link
Bowmansville Fire Station Link
UB South
NWTA Mighty Niagara (Volunteer Information)
Thanks to all of the NWTA members who have helped out at the race over the years and welcome to all of you who are interested in joining the fun! This is the 11th year for the Hospice Dash and the 8th year for the Mighty Niagara Half Marathon in support of Niagara Hospice. Here are the details...
Saturday September 21, 2019Mighty Niagara Half Marathon: Official Start Time is 9:15am
Starts at Artpark State Park in historic Lewiston, New York and finishes at Porter-on-the-Lake Park in Youngstown, New York. The USATF certified course offers scenic views of two historic villages, four state parks, the Lower Niagara River, Lake Ontario, Canada and the Toronto skyline!
Hospice Dash 5K: Official Start Time is 9:00am
Starts and finishes at Porter-on-the-Lake Park in Youngstown, New YorK. The USATF certified course takes runners along Lake Road and through Four Mile State Park before returning back to Porter-on-the-Lake Park.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE IF YOU WOULD LIKE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION!
Both events will take place on Saturday September 21st and we expect about 500-700 participants in the 5K and between 1200-1,500 for the half marathon. The post race party is AMAZING and this year we will again feature Nerds Gone Wild as our headline band from 11am until 2pm at Porter-on-the-Lake Park which is the finish line for both races.
NW employees that have helped us in the past are welcome to keep their same job. For example, Vince Schiffert always parks his car at the entrance to Fort Niagara State Park to make sure runners stay left at the cannons and run along the river. Tim & Cindy Mt Pleasant are always in front of Main Street Pizza to ensure runners turn right at a critical turn. The NW Swim Team completely blankets Four Mile State Park to guide runners and serve water. We hope that all of you who have helped out in the past consider keeping your same job since you know it well!
We need additional new volunteers to help with the following....
VOLUNTEER OPTION #1
We need an additional 6-8 volunteers to help with parking at Artpark (upper lot via Portage Road) from 6:30am until the start of the race at 9:15am. We have parking coordinators (Tommy Hanna and Todd Caskey) that will meet you in the upper lot and place you in locations to flag cars to designated lots throughout the morning. This is a very important job as we generally have over 1,000 cars and we need people in position to keep traffic moving smoothly throughout the morning so we can start the race on time.
VOLUNTEER OPTION #2
We need 15 or so volunteers to help with parking at Porter-on-the-Lake Park in Youngstown from 6:30am until about 10am. We have parking coordinators (Kevin Toohey and Jim Hull) that will meet you at the Volunteer Tent at Porter-on-the-Lake Park and place you in locations to flag cars to designated parking on the grass throughout the morning. This is also a very important job because we need to ensure that cars do not block roadways or start parking all over the place in the park.
VOLUNTEER OPTION #3
We need about 30-40 volunteers to serve as course marshals in the Village of Lewiston on race morning. These volunteers will meet with our Committee member (Frank Ventry) in the Rite Aid parking lot at 8am SHARP on race morning. Frank will provide you with a course map and yellow safety vest that you will wear while volunteering. You will be assigned to a designated intersection along the course and your job will be to keep traffic from entering the roadways once the race begins at 9:15 sharp. A police vehicle will be leading the race and all runners should be out of the Village and heading down River Road past Dutton Drive by about 10am. We have a Kubota UTV that follows the last runner/walker so you will know when you can leave your post. We ask that you return the yellow vests to Frank at Rite Aid by 10:30am at the latest. You can also bring them directly to the finish line if you plan on coming to the post race party. If we have a large contingent of volunteers we can double you up with a friend.
FORM A CHEER ZONE TEAM (Please note special requirements)
And finally, I am looking for at least 4 groups who would be willing to host a cheer station along the course. If you choose this option we will provide you with a professional speaker/amplifier, short 6' speaker power cord, cable to connect your phone or iPod to the speaker, and a dongle adapter so that it will work with newer iPhones or Androids. If you choose to organize a cheer station you will need to work with us AHEAD OF TIME to select a location along the route with access to power from a house close to the road. You will need to bring enough extension cord to run power from the house to the speaker/amplifier. You will also need to provide your own iPhone or iPod with music. You can pick the music yourself, use Pandora, etc and bring a handful of friends to cheer on runners as they pass. RUNNERS LOVE THIS and you will have a great time giving high fives and motivating them on their journey. This option would be great for a team of 6-8 teachers (or more) per cheer station and you can customize it however you wish! Please do not pick this option if your group leader is unable to provide the required extension cords and/or play music using their own device. A designated representative will need to return all equipment to the Volunteer Tent at Porter-on-the-Lake Park once you shut down your cheer zone. Parking attendants will allow you to pull right up to unload before parking your car. We know lots of people who own homes along the route and can secure the location for you if needed!
IMPORTANT!
We need to confirm your participation by 9/5/19 so we can plan accordingly. I believe that Sean was planning to order NWTA shirts for everyone who commits to helping out. Proceeds from this event are donated to Niagara Hospice and I am proud to say that between these races and the Jack Beatty Hospice Memorial Regatta we have raised well over $1,000,000 for this amazing organization. I promise you will have a great time and thank you in advance for your support and commitment! All are welcome to join us at the post-race party once you have are done with your job. Nerds gone Wild will perform from 11am until 2pm and we have great food and beer for all. If you plan on attending the post race party we would kindly ask that you consider making a small donation at via Sean at the NWTA tent. All money collected will be presented to Niagara Hospice Staff at the race on behalf of the NWTA!
Please notify your building representative if you plan on helping out by the end of the day on Friday September 6th. I will reach out to them the following week and begin planning assignments.
Building Reps:
Tusc: Cindy Mtpleasant
ER: Nicole Pasceri
West St: Rob Udy
CV - Meghan Desiderio
ETMS - Amanda Jasper
HS - Sean O'Brien
Thanks again!
-Paul
716-998-5777 cell
[email protected]
Saturday September 21, 2019Mighty Niagara Half Marathon: Official Start Time is 9:15am
Starts at Artpark State Park in historic Lewiston, New York and finishes at Porter-on-the-Lake Park in Youngstown, New York. The USATF certified course offers scenic views of two historic villages, four state parks, the Lower Niagara River, Lake Ontario, Canada and the Toronto skyline!
Hospice Dash 5K: Official Start Time is 9:00am
Starts and finishes at Porter-on-the-Lake Park in Youngstown, New YorK. The USATF certified course takes runners along Lake Road and through Four Mile State Park before returning back to Porter-on-the-Lake Park.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE IF YOU WOULD LIKE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION!
Both events will take place on Saturday September 21st and we expect about 500-700 participants in the 5K and between 1200-1,500 for the half marathon. The post race party is AMAZING and this year we will again feature Nerds Gone Wild as our headline band from 11am until 2pm at Porter-on-the-Lake Park which is the finish line for both races.
NW employees that have helped us in the past are welcome to keep their same job. For example, Vince Schiffert always parks his car at the entrance to Fort Niagara State Park to make sure runners stay left at the cannons and run along the river. Tim & Cindy Mt Pleasant are always in front of Main Street Pizza to ensure runners turn right at a critical turn. The NW Swim Team completely blankets Four Mile State Park to guide runners and serve water. We hope that all of you who have helped out in the past consider keeping your same job since you know it well!
We need additional new volunteers to help with the following....
VOLUNTEER OPTION #1
We need an additional 6-8 volunteers to help with parking at Artpark (upper lot via Portage Road) from 6:30am until the start of the race at 9:15am. We have parking coordinators (Tommy Hanna and Todd Caskey) that will meet you in the upper lot and place you in locations to flag cars to designated lots throughout the morning. This is a very important job as we generally have over 1,000 cars and we need people in position to keep traffic moving smoothly throughout the morning so we can start the race on time.
VOLUNTEER OPTION #2
We need 15 or so volunteers to help with parking at Porter-on-the-Lake Park in Youngstown from 6:30am until about 10am. We have parking coordinators (Kevin Toohey and Jim Hull) that will meet you at the Volunteer Tent at Porter-on-the-Lake Park and place you in locations to flag cars to designated parking on the grass throughout the morning. This is also a very important job because we need to ensure that cars do not block roadways or start parking all over the place in the park.
VOLUNTEER OPTION #3
We need about 30-40 volunteers to serve as course marshals in the Village of Lewiston on race morning. These volunteers will meet with our Committee member (Frank Ventry) in the Rite Aid parking lot at 8am SHARP on race morning. Frank will provide you with a course map and yellow safety vest that you will wear while volunteering. You will be assigned to a designated intersection along the course and your job will be to keep traffic from entering the roadways once the race begins at 9:15 sharp. A police vehicle will be leading the race and all runners should be out of the Village and heading down River Road past Dutton Drive by about 10am. We have a Kubota UTV that follows the last runner/walker so you will know when you can leave your post. We ask that you return the yellow vests to Frank at Rite Aid by 10:30am at the latest. You can also bring them directly to the finish line if you plan on coming to the post race party. If we have a large contingent of volunteers we can double you up with a friend.
FORM A CHEER ZONE TEAM (Please note special requirements)
And finally, I am looking for at least 4 groups who would be willing to host a cheer station along the course. If you choose this option we will provide you with a professional speaker/amplifier, short 6' speaker power cord, cable to connect your phone or iPod to the speaker, and a dongle adapter so that it will work with newer iPhones or Androids. If you choose to organize a cheer station you will need to work with us AHEAD OF TIME to select a location along the route with access to power from a house close to the road. You will need to bring enough extension cord to run power from the house to the speaker/amplifier. You will also need to provide your own iPhone or iPod with music. You can pick the music yourself, use Pandora, etc and bring a handful of friends to cheer on runners as they pass. RUNNERS LOVE THIS and you will have a great time giving high fives and motivating them on their journey. This option would be great for a team of 6-8 teachers (or more) per cheer station and you can customize it however you wish! Please do not pick this option if your group leader is unable to provide the required extension cords and/or play music using their own device. A designated representative will need to return all equipment to the Volunteer Tent at Porter-on-the-Lake Park once you shut down your cheer zone. Parking attendants will allow you to pull right up to unload before parking your car. We know lots of people who own homes along the route and can secure the location for you if needed!
IMPORTANT!
We need to confirm your participation by 9/5/19 so we can plan accordingly. I believe that Sean was planning to order NWTA shirts for everyone who commits to helping out. Proceeds from this event are donated to Niagara Hospice and I am proud to say that between these races and the Jack Beatty Hospice Memorial Regatta we have raised well over $1,000,000 for this amazing organization. I promise you will have a great time and thank you in advance for your support and commitment! All are welcome to join us at the post-race party once you have are done with your job. Nerds gone Wild will perform from 11am until 2pm and we have great food and beer for all. If you plan on attending the post race party we would kindly ask that you consider making a small donation at via Sean at the NWTA tent. All money collected will be presented to Niagara Hospice Staff at the race on behalf of the NWTA!
Please notify your building representative if you plan on helping out by the end of the day on Friday September 6th. I will reach out to them the following week and begin planning assignments.
Building Reps:
Tusc: Cindy Mtpleasant
ER: Nicole Pasceri
West St: Rob Udy
CV - Meghan Desiderio
ETMS - Amanda Jasper
HS - Sean O'Brien
Thanks again!
-Paul
716-998-5777 cell
[email protected]
September 2, 2019 Youngstown Labor Day Parade
The AFL/CIO Niagara Orleans Labor Council will be participating in the Youngstown Labor Day Parade on Monday, September 2, 2019. We would like to get as many Labor people and their families out to walk with us in the parade. Wear your union colors that represent your local, bring your union flags, banners and candy. We are working on getting a float for the parade and may need some help with decorating it. Lineup starts at Fort Niagara at 10:45 am. Hope to see you there!
Any questions please contact our AFL/CIO rep, Beth Pyskaty.
Any questions please contact our AFL/CIO rep, Beth Pyskaty.
September 2019 Making Strides
Please consider joining the NW team to make strides against breast cancer!
All loved ones, friends and colleagues of union members are welcome and encouraged to walk with us!!
Should you be interested in joining, please click the link below:
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/MakingStridesAgainstBreastCancer/MSABCCY19NER?pg=entry&fr_id=94430
We are the NWCSD team affiliated with NYSUT.
Once registered, please consider ordering a tshirt: Here is the link to the google form:
https://forms.gle/XP45DV76atsmYtEM6
If you are planning to purchase multiple shirts, if you could be so kind to fill out a form per shirt, it would help the organizational effort, (huge thanks in advance!)
All t-shirts, regardless of size, are 15.00. You can inter-office the money to Angela Porter. All checks can be made out to the NWTA.
Please order your shirt no later than September 20.
We hope to see you there!!
All loved ones, friends and colleagues of union members are welcome and encouraged to walk with us!!
Should you be interested in joining, please click the link below:
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/MakingStridesAgainstBreastCancer/MSABCCY19NER?pg=entry&fr_id=94430
We are the NWCSD team affiliated with NYSUT.
Once registered, please consider ordering a tshirt: Here is the link to the google form:
https://forms.gle/XP45DV76atsmYtEM6
If you are planning to purchase multiple shirts, if you could be so kind to fill out a form per shirt, it would help the organizational effort, (huge thanks in advance!)
All t-shirts, regardless of size, are 15.00. You can inter-office the money to Angela Porter. All checks can be made out to the NWTA.
Please order your shirt no later than September 20.
We hope to see you there!!
May 2019 Suspicious email warning
Dear NYSUT Leader –
It has come to our attention that Leaders at one local received a suspicious email that appears to be a so-called “phishing” attempt. The email directed the recipient to an unauthorized website that used NYSUT branding and logos to resemble official NYSUT communications in an attempt to collect their log-in information.
While there is no indication that anyone's account has been accessed illicitly, in an abundance of caution, we are taking precautionary steps to assure that our members' personal information remains secure:
It has come to our attention that Leaders at one local received a suspicious email that appears to be a so-called “phishing” attempt. The email directed the recipient to an unauthorized website that used NYSUT branding and logos to resemble official NYSUT communications in an attempt to collect their log-in information.
While there is no indication that anyone's account has been accessed illicitly, in an abundance of caution, we are taking precautionary steps to assure that our members' personal information remains secure:
- For security, we have forced a password reset to your account effective immediately.
- Here is how to reset your NYSUT.org password:
- Go to https://www.nysut.org/log-in-landing/forgot-password
- You will be prompted for your email or NYSUT member ID and the answers to your three security challenge questions. Upon successful verification, you will then be able to reset the password to your account.
- Please contact us at [email protected] or call 1-800-342-9810, extension 6333 if you need assistance finding your member ID.
- Please review cybersecurity information regarding Phishing attempts and the precautions we can all take to protect ourselves.
https://www.ftc.gov/tips-advice/business-center/small-businesses/cybersecurity/phishing
June 25th, 2019 NWTA Picnic
WHERE:
NOCO PAVILION (Indoor - Air Conditioned) (450 Ensminger Rd, Tonawanda, NY 14150)
WHEN: T
Tuesday, June 25th, 2019
COST:
Included
Bring your significant others and children to enjoy ice cold drinks and awesome food!
NOCO PAVILION (Indoor - Air Conditioned) (450 Ensminger Rd, Tonawanda, NY 14150)
WHEN: T
Tuesday, June 25th, 2019
COST:
Included
Bring your significant others and children to enjoy ice cold drinks and awesome food!
May 7, 2019 Buffalo School Union Endorsements for School Board
Please share the attached list of Buffalo Teachers Federation endorsed Buffalo School Board candidates with your membership, friends and family. This Buffalo School Board election has not received the attention that we saw in the election 3 years ago. However there are several charter school/Corporate Ed Reform candidates supported by Carl Paladino & his friends that are running against the union endorsed slate. We can beat them if we turn out the vote. Please help us get out the vote next Tuesday!
Voters can vote for up to 3 At-Large candidates.
Thank You!
Name of Candidate Public Office
Lawrence Scott
At Large
Ann Rivera
At Large
Terrence Howard
At Large
Sharon Belton-Cottman
Ferry District
Dr. Katherine Evans-Brown
East District
Paulette Woods
Central District
Louis Petrucci
Park District
Jennifer Mecozzi
West District
Hope Jay
North District
Voters can vote for up to 3 At-Large candidates.
Thank You!
Name of Candidate Public Office
Lawrence Scott
At Large
Ann Rivera
At Large
Terrence Howard
At Large
Sharon Belton-Cottman
Ferry District
Dr. Katherine Evans-Brown
East District
Paulette Woods
Central District
Louis Petrucci
Park District
Jennifer Mecozzi
West District
Hope Jay
North District
May 23, 2019 32nd Annual NYSUT Leadership Awards Dinner
I would like to congratulate
BETH PYSKATY
who is this year's NWTA NYSUT Leadership Award winner!
Beth will be honored at the 32nd Annual NYSUT Leadership Awards Dinner on May 23, 2019, at the Buffalo Grand Hotel (formerly the Adam's Mark) beginning at 5:00 PM.
Beth began teaching Social Studies at NWHS in 1996. Beth serves as our NYSTRS Delegate and AFL-CIO Liaison. Beth is also a building rep and was instrumental in both our re-carding and Vote/Cope campaigns. Her passion for public education and unionism is contagious. Beth has attended many rallies, parades, and labor council meetings to spread positive messages about the direct connection between labor and public education. She was also a recipient of the AFL Labor Award. We are truly fortunate to have Beth on our leadership team and honored to name her our NWTA Leadership Award recipient. Congratulations, Beth!
If you would like to attend this dinner honoring Beth, please RSVP to me no later than April 4, 2019, with your meal choice of:
7oz. Sirloin
Cheese Ravioli (Vegetarian)
or
Grilled Chicken (Gluten/Dairy-free)
The cost is $25 for NWTA members and $50 for any non-NWTA attendees. Checks payable to NWTA.
Congratulations, again, Beth! You are certainly very deserving of this award.
In solidarity,
Darla
BETH PYSKATY
who is this year's NWTA NYSUT Leadership Award winner!
Beth will be honored at the 32nd Annual NYSUT Leadership Awards Dinner on May 23, 2019, at the Buffalo Grand Hotel (formerly the Adam's Mark) beginning at 5:00 PM.
Beth began teaching Social Studies at NWHS in 1996. Beth serves as our NYSTRS Delegate and AFL-CIO Liaison. Beth is also a building rep and was instrumental in both our re-carding and Vote/Cope campaigns. Her passion for public education and unionism is contagious. Beth has attended many rallies, parades, and labor council meetings to spread positive messages about the direct connection between labor and public education. She was also a recipient of the AFL Labor Award. We are truly fortunate to have Beth on our leadership team and honored to name her our NWTA Leadership Award recipient. Congratulations, Beth!
If you would like to attend this dinner honoring Beth, please RSVP to me no later than April 4, 2019, with your meal choice of:
7oz. Sirloin
Cheese Ravioli (Vegetarian)
or
Grilled Chicken (Gluten/Dairy-free)
The cost is $25 for NWTA members and $50 for any non-NWTA attendees. Checks payable to NWTA.
Congratulations, again, Beth! You are certainly very deserving of this award.
In solidarity,
Darla
April 9th and 10th, 2019 Financial Planning Seminar
The Legend Group is offering two financial planning seminars in April. The first will be hosted by Linda Grear, Esq a local estate planning attorney is on April 9th, it will be focused on estate planning. The second will be on April 10th and NYSTRS focused with the former manager of the Public Information Office of the NYSTRS David Daly. Both are here at the Legend office in Getzville. See attached for more information
January 2019 Mini Grant Opportunity
Throughout its history, the NYSUT Retirees of WNY have supported public education and our active teachers through political activity, educational opportunities and scholarship incentives achieved through fundraising and donations. Please see attached for information on a Mini Grant opportunity!
Mini Grant | Application
Mini Grant | Application
January 20, 2019 Buffalo's Woman's March
Sunday, 1/20/19 is Buffalo's Women's March organized by NYSUT. The march will take place in Niagara Square. Register at [email protected] .
February 17 Town Hall Meetings
These are building based meetings to get information about the negotiations process, provide input based on unique building needs, and to share ideas of how we can continue to mobilize, engage, and build up our already strong union through negotiations and collective bargaining.
Here is the schedule:
2/6 ETMS 2:30
2/7 CV 3:45
2/13 TUSC 3:45
2/15 HS 2:30
2/28 WEST 3:45
3/7 ER 3:45
Here is the schedule:
2/6 ETMS 2:30
2/7 CV 3:45
2/13 TUSC 3:45
2/15 HS 2:30
2/28 WEST 3:45
3/7 ER 3:45
October 7, 2016 Increases in Substitute Pay
September 2016 NWTA Elections
Tuesday, October 4, 2016 Building Reps
*Nominations due in writing to Lisa LaBend or building designee
no later than September 27, 2016.
Tuesday, May 2, 2017 Officers, Grievance, and Delegates
*Nominations due in writing to Lisa LaBend or building designee
no later than April 25, 2017.
November 22, 2014 Salvation Army Volunteering
The Orleans/Niagara Labor Board is organizing volunteers to be bell ringers at various Tops locations to benefit the Salvation Army.
Here are the particulars....
Date- Nov. 22nd
When - sign up for two hour shifts first shift starts at 11 am and last ends at 8 pm.
Where - 4 Tops locations - Transit Rd. Lockport, Wrights Corners, Tops International in Niagara Falls, and Tonawanda.
It would be a great opportunity to get out and where our shirts in the community. People can email me or call me with questions or to sign up. I would like to get the information back to the council ASAP. People can bring family members to help as well.
Call or email with questions [email protected], x1316, mobile (716) 417-5648.
Thanks,
Beth Pyskaty
NWTA Labor Council Liaison
October 26, 2014 Wine Tour
Bus departs The Meeting Place at 11:00 and returns at 3:00
Dinner served. $10PP.
RSVP 10/20 Patti Gormley x1411/Lisa Lindamere x3104
