In this issue:

President's Pen Unity Day at HMS NYSUT Fall Leadership Conference NYSUT Issues Endorsements Pledge to Vote on November 6th Birthday Wishes

Dear Sisters and Brothers of the HCT,

The past two weeks have seen the worst of humanity as it relates to the political divide in our nation's discourse. And true to America, it had also seen the best of mankind as it relates to our indomitable spirit and resiliency.

Not too many periods in our history can rival the level of political and domestic terrorism that was on display last week with the mail bombings throughout the country and the egregiously anti-Semitic murders in a synagogue in a quiet Pittsburgh suburb.

To say the nation is on edge would be an understatement. Just as every religious leader and elected official has denounced the attacks, we cannot allow terrorism to deter us as a country from carrying on. We must each in our own way mourn those who were lost, be grateful for those who were not, and work together to heal the divide between us.

One crucial and impactful way to ensure our voices are not only heard, but our concerns are echoed resoundingly, is to VOTE.

• If you're tired of the hateful rhetoric, VOTE.
• If you're disillusioned with the direction your local, state, national leaders are taking you, VOTE.
• If you're worried about healthcare for your family, VOTE.
• If you want to be valued in your profession, VOTE.
• If you despise intolerance, VOTE.
• If you believe everyone should have access to quality jobs and schools regardless of our zip codes, VOTE.
• If you want to pay homage to those who died for your rights, VOTE.
• And if you think those seeking your vote are incapable of changing all this then someday it might be your turn to RUN.

When you head to the polls this Tuesday, consider how NYSUT's endorsed candidates fit into your view, particularly on a local level. These individuals have undergone the scrutiny of a lengthy endorsement process and have emerged worthy of our support. They believe in building a strong middle class, supporting the labor movement, fighting for quality public education for all, and ensuring dignity for our profession.

View the complete list of NYSUT endorsed candidates here.

A mural of Long Island depicting its many towns greets students and staff outside Anthony Tussie's classroom at Hicksville Middle School. Hundreds of lighthouse cut-outs adorn the mural, each one done by a student who has taken a pledge to spread kindness, acceptance and inclusion. With the help of HMS Art Teacher, Kristin Powell, Tussie worked with students to participate in Unity Day, a nationwide program to help eradicate bullying in schools. 

Back in September, students read the books Have You Filled a Bucket Today? by Carol McCloud as well as others about the dangers of bullying and how to promote friendship among students. Tussie and Dr. Mrozik arrived at the idea of lighthouses for the kids because they symbolize a "beacon of hope." The feedback from the HMS community has been positive since the mural went up. Tussie thinks this is because it is not only a beautiful piece of art, but a great message for students.

"Middle School is such a difficult time in the lives of Middle School-aged kids," Tussie said. "The importance of establishing and maintaining a positive school climate is the backbone of a quality educational institution."

Five HCT members braved the rain and wind during Saturday's Nor'Easter to attend the NYSUT Leadership Conference at the Huntington Hilton. Stephanie Sullo, Grace Vangi Delise, Erik Knudsen, Justina Ketyer and Tom Glenn attended workshops on a variety of topics throughout the day. Some included: Constitution and Contract Revisions, Inducting New Members into a Culture of Unionism and Using Internal Organizing to Build Your Local's Power. Regional Director Matt Jacobs and other panel members discussed labor union's future after the Supreme Court decision favoring Mark Janus.