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Issue: 6
Mary Masterson, Editor
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October 26, 2016
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by Tom Glenn
Union membership offers each of us a wide array of benefits, as well as collective strength, and a voice in our daily working conditions. It allows us to advocate for one another in addition to the students and the community we serve. We are believers in social justice, fighters for improving public education, and proponents of equal access in efforts to allow all to achieve the American Dream. Through its many initiatives and workshops, NYSUT offers us opportunities to build our capacity and encourage our members to be stakeholders in the advancement of our local.
This summer I had the opportunity to visit "the mother ship", NYSUT's Headquarters located in Latham, New York, to attend the informative New Local Presidents' Conference. An impressive sight to behold, the building welcomes visitors with signs assuring rank and file members and presidents alike, that this building belongs to all of us.
The conference highlighted the plethora of programs and services to which members have access, as well as the governance structure of the organization, and the opportunity to forge and develop critical contacts with the many staff members and leaders charged with ensuring the smooth day-to-day operations of the machine that is the New York State United Teachers.
If you ever have concerns about something in your daily working environment or wonder if there is something your union (NYSUT, AFT, HCT) can do for you or your situation, please don't hesitate to speak with a building representative. Oftentimes, they can assuage concerns at the building level. If your situation or concerns require more detailed attention, we have expansive channels to which we can refer the matter in an effort to help.
Please read on to learn of a few of the opportunities we have as proud HCT and NYSUT members.
As proud HCT and NYSUT members there are many opportunities available to us.
NYSUT Education & Learning Trust is Seeking Accomplished Teachers to Join Their Team. Visit their website to learn more about it.
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The
HCT Negotiations Team has been solidified. As per the HCT Constitution, it is comprised of the HCT President, 1st Vice President, and three members in-good-standing who have demonstrated an interest in serving and have submitted an application. At last week's meeting of the HCT board of directors, the remaining three members were selected. They are:
Chad Wyman (HS),
Sara Smith (MS), and
Robert Morris (Woodland).
We are still in need of members to serve in the capacity of
Contract Planning Committee. These are elected positions comprised of one member from each elementary building and two from each secondary building. Members of the Contract Planning Committee will be charged with actively soliciting input and ideas from their building colleagues in order to aid the formulation of contract proposals. Interested members should
download and complete an application. Applications must be submitted by November 1st to their building representative, Tom Glenn at Dutch Lane or the HCT Office (535 South Broadway, Suite 212).
The elections will be held in each building on November 15th.
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Jewel Cocktail Party
by Mary Masterson
HCT colleagues and good friends enjoying a special evening together!
On Friday, October 21, 2016 the HCT hosted its third annual "Upscale Cocktail Party" at Jewel Restaurant. The event was the brainchild of the Member Engagement Committee, in an effort to offer the HCT members and their families increased opportunities to socialize in settings outside of work. Approximately 40 HCT members, some along with spouses, attended this cocktail party sponsored by The Legend Group.
Sara Smith (Middle School), was the winner of the HCT 50/50 raffle that evening. A total of $180 was collected and the remaining $90 will benefit the HCT Scholarship Fund. The consensus throughout the night was that the combination of great food, conversation, and camaraderie was second-to-none!
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School-Related Professionals Recognition Day
SRP Recognition Day is celebrated this year on November 15th, recognizes the importance of the NYSUT members who are an integral part of students' educational experience. SRPs are cafeteria workers, custodians, building and grounds workers, clerical staff, bus drivers, monitors and attendants, mechanics, teacher aides and teaching assistants, health care professionals, security personnel and many other members.
SRP Recognition Day is the direct result of advocacy by NYSUT members. NYSUT-backed legislation, made possible through the extensive lobbying by NYSUT staff and members, resulted in a permanent SRP Recognition Day in New York State. It is celebrated annually on the third Tuesday in November. This year's November 15th date falls within American Education Week (November 13-November 19), and many locals can use this opportunity to incorporate an SRP celebration into other events planned for the week. Stay tuned for more information on how the HCT plans to celebrate with our SRP's.
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Labor Walk for Anthony Eramo and Todd Kaminsky
Join fellow laborers in helping to Get Out the Vote for Todd Kaminsky and Anthony Eramo, two NYSUT-endorsed candidates, on Saturday November 5th.
Date:
Saturday, November 5, 2016
Location:
485 Merrick Rd,
Rockville Centre, NY
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Your Union Helping the Community
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How Prepared Are You?
A representative of NYSUT Legal Services will be in the HCT office on December 15, 2016 and February 7, 2017 between 2:30 P.M. and 5 P.M. to assist HCT members in the completion of a Legal Security Package. The package includes a living will, health care proxy designee, simple will and power of attorney. Email the office to schedule an appointment. Appointments are on a first-come first-served basis. Please download and complete the Legal Security Package questionnaire
and bring it with you to your meeting. Spouses are not required to attend but are welcomed.
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Your Blueprint for a Successful Retirement
It's never too early to start planning for your future retirement. Take a moment to read NYSUT's informative publication today!
Note - A NYSUT Login-In ID is required.
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Your Union Making a Difference
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CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to the winners of the HCT Pink-Out Raffle. Each winner received a gift card valued at $25.
Michele Dodenhoff (Dutch)
Panera Bread
Nicole D'Antonio (Lee)
Dunkin' Donuts
Dawn Beyer (Middle School)
Roast Sandwhich Shop
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Condolences to
Nancy Ricupero (High School) on the passing of her mother.
Condolences to
Frank LoCascio (High School) on the passing of his grandfather.
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