RESOURCES FOR YOUR SCHOOL NYSFSA THE WELFARE FUND Your Library Needs A Curated Despite Virus, NYS Federation Ensuring Coverage And Collection Of Reading Material of School Administrators Reimbursements, Note For And Media, Resources 3 Stays The Course 5 Medicare-Eligible Retirees 6

Nov. 2020 Volume 56, Number 3 American Federation NEWS of School Administrators, COUNCIL OF SCHOOL SUPERVISORS AND ADMINISTRATORS AFL-CIO Local 1 Mr. Bowman Goes Early Childhood Education Amid COVID19, To Washington A Call For Equity BY CHUCK WILBANKS BY CSA NEWS STAFF On Nov. 3, CSA member Jamaal Bowman, the founding CSA has consistently urged the city to correct the principal of Cornerstone Academy great disparity between how it treats CBO-based early of Social Justice, easily beat childhood directors and assistant directors and their Conservative Party candidate DOE-based counterparts. During this pandemic, we have Patrick McManus to become aggressively pushed the city to make certain they pro- the congressman elect for New vided ECE members with the same health and safety pro- York’s Sixteenth Congressional tective measures as your DOE colleagues. District. In a remarkably diverse Against this backdrop of crisis, on Sept. 30 ECE mem- and reliably blue district which bers’ contract expired. Before and after that date passed, includes swaths of the northern CSA Executive Vice President Henry Rubio and First Vice Bronx as well as more affluent President Rosemarie Sinclair have pushed to get the city areas in southern Westchester, to the table to discuss a new agreement. his victory was all but assured On top of salary and other disparities, the city and after his primary victory over Rep. state have now determined that early childhood educa- Eliot Engel, a 28-year veteran. tion centers are “essential” services and will remain open, Mr. Bowman was backed by the even as public schools have gone fully remote once again. Justice Democrats, whose stan- When CSA learned of this designation, we became dard bearer is Alexandra Ocasio Continued on Page 5 Cortez. As his campaign literature Continued on Page 8 n CSA member Jamaal Bowman will represent NY’s sixteenth district. Agreements Protect Salaries, Job Security BY CRAIG DIFOLCO of the lump sum payment in COVID-19 crisis began, shall be understood that principals and for COVID-19 related compli- February 2021 and the remain- paid when due. assistant principals may work cations (as per the CDC), shall In recent weeks, CSA secured ing half in November 2021. Leadership also won cru- together to provide appropri- be afforded a preference for a two agreements that protect With this new agreement, cial job security guarantees: ate coverage for all regular day partial or a fully remote posi- members’ hard-earned incomes, the city also officially acknowl- No DOE-based CSA members activities. tion based on the needs of the provide them with greater job edged that CSA members who shall be laid off due to budget- CSA also secured the right school. security, and allow more flexi- were owed lump sum pay- ary reasons or the abolition of for non-school-based members There will undoubtedly bility to work from home when ments of retroactive pay in programs or positions. That pact be many more battles ahead, appropriate. October, earned during their will be binding until at least particularly involving oper- The first agreement secured time as teachers, will be paid June 30, 2021. And if the city Crucial Guarantees: ational complaints flowing retroactive lump sum payments the remaining half of that pay- receives $5 billion of budgetary from the DOE’s irresponsible guaranteed by our 2014 con- ment in July 2021. (The first relief from either stimulus fund- Retroactive Pay, staffing agreements, which tract. For months, the Mayor half was paid in October.) It ing or long-term borrowing, principals have been required has publicly proposed layoffs was CSA’s negotiations in 2014 then the city agrees to extend Wage Increases, to implement without neces- due to the city’s fiscal crisis that won the UFT portion of the this job security clause until sary resources. Our union will brought on by the pandemic. retroactive payment for those June 30, 2022. And Remote Work fully support our members and To avoid these potential layoffs, promoted into CSA -- that issue The second agreement aggressively advocate on their all public sector labor unions was unaddressed in the teacher involves working from home. behalf as they resolve these have been asked to accept fur- negotiation. Since then, CSA Under the new rule, school- to continue to work remotely complaints in whatever way loughs or find significant sav- members who joined our union based members can vary on-site as they have been, unless, like is best for their students, and ings elsewhere. The city recently from November 2009 forward and remote supervision as long school-based members, they we will fight to make certain informed CSA that it intended have been paid lump sums on as there is appropriate supervi- are needed on site and brought that any financial obligations to withhold the final install- both the UFT and CSA sched- sory coverage in their school for in to work with reasonable incurred as a result of staffing ment of the retroactive lump ules, representing the time spent all regular day activities. Due to advance notice. shortages caused by the city’s sum payments owed in February in each union for the relevant the COVID-19 pandemic and its Finally, CSA is pleased to agreements should not be 2021. Though our union of time period. impact on programming, CSA share that any school-based charged to a school’s budget. As course recognizes the realities of As the result of this new has consistently advocated that CSA-member, who is a docu- long as we all remain united and the current financial challenges, agreement, CSA also secured school leaders should have the mented primary caregiver of a raise our voices when necessary, CSA immediately set out to pro- guarantees that all other wage flexibility and discretion to staff family member that they live we are confident that we will tect this previously earned pay, increases under the 2019 con- supervisory coverage as needed. with and who have conditions continue to protect our hard- and the city agreed to pay half tract, ratified just before the With this new agreement, it is that make them at higher risk earned rights. 2 CSA NEWS Nov. 2020

PRESIDENT’S PAGE Even Now, Many

Council of School Reasons To Be Thankful Supervisors & Administrators American Federation of School Administrators, AFL-CIO, Local 1 Job Security, And The Power To Make Lives Better. By Mark Cannizzaro 40 Rector St., NY, NY 10006 Phone: (212) 823-2020 uring my first year as a principal, because CSA has negotiated successfully Fax: (212) 962-6130 two reporters from the student on many issues. In the worst fiscal crisis www.csa-nyc.org newspaper asked what my favorite since the 1970s, we have had no layoffs holiday was. Without hesitat- and there will be none through June of President Ding, I said Thanksgiving. Even now, when 2021. In the most challenging year of your Mark Cannizzaro much of that holiday’s mythology has professional careers, you have less to worry Executive Vice President Henry Rubio been questioned, I cling to the best parts: about, in terms of security, than most First Vice President coming together with family and providing Americans. Rosemarie Sinclair for those who have less to eat than we do. We’ve been aggressive advocates for Treasurer Most of all, I remember the kitchen smells our members, able to protect you in myr- Christopher Ogno and snippet scenes with my mom cooking. iad ways. We demanded and won a safer Secretary This holiday has never felt commercial to school reopening timetable and we’ve Steffani Fanizzi me but more of a moment to be with the stayed on top of the staffing crisis. We’ve Vice Presidents people we love most and take stock of our had hiring freezes lifted for APs. We’ve Sam Akel blessings. secured full protection of EA rights with Jose Garcia Ramon Gonzalez Never has this been truer for me than in temporary redeployment into schools. Lois Lee 2020, with the most divisive presidential We’ve secured an agreement to postpone Katiana Louissaint election in memory; the unrest that fol- quality reviews, school surveys and investi- Nancy Russo, Retiree Chapter lowed the killing of George Floyd; and the gations. For our early childhood directors, Executive Director Operations death and economic destruction that flowed we have been able to secure new safety Erminia Claudio from the COVID pandemic. Providing that you and yours are guidelines. We were able to secure an unprecedented agree- General Counsel healthy, you’re likely to feel the same way. With so much of ment that school leaders be provided with representation David Grandwetter the population scrambling to survive, we school leaders have and indemnification in the event of a claim naming you as a benefitted from job security and have been blessed with the defendant in a COVID-related lawsuit. This was a must-win. Executive Director Field Services power to make a lot of lives better. You have been unsung As hard as it sometimes is to believe, this pandemic, too, Sana Q. Nasser heroes helping children stay safe, stay fed, and learn again in shall pass. As we’re approaching Thanksgiving, news broke Field Directors one kind of classroom or another. James Harrigan Frank Patterson • • • Mercedes Qualls Welcome News: Highly Effective Assistant Field Directors e too often focus on the frustrations of dealing Beshir Abdellatif, Eleanor Andrew, with the DOE -- I know I sure do – and less on our Vaccines For Coronavirus Will Be Mildred Boyce, Laverne Burrowes, W joys and triumphs. A gentle reminder for me was Dominic Cipollone, Peter Devlin, Kenneth to hear a principal, on the first day back, say, “It’s so great to Introduced And Available Soon Llinas, Nancy Esposito, Roberto Flores, see kids again.” Ellie Greenberg, Ray Gregory, What a simple, positive message. Most of you have been Joseph LaCascia, Monica McDonald, Dorothy Morris, Beverly Pascal-Miller, embracing positive messages as much as you can because that Pfizer and Moderna may soon introduce highly effective Wanda Soto, Yvonne Williams you’re so sensitive to the social and emotional health of COVID vaccines. President-Elect Biden has pulled together everyone around you in this unprecedented time. a first-rate task force of doctors and scientists who will con- Grievance Director In fact, we’re better able to be hopeful and optimistic tinue working on an efficient means to contain the virus Dale Kelly while we wait and on methods of distribu- Assistant Directors tion when the time comes. Of all the things Carol Atkins, Robert Colon, COVID19: Round Two to be thankful for, a vaccine would be at the Jermaine Garden- top of the list. Many of you have lost loved Director of Communications ones, including adored principals, assis- Craig DiFolco tant principals and staff members at your Director of Political Affairs President Cannizzaro schools. Others have been spared such losses Gabe Gallucci by a hair’s breadth. My son, a daughter, my Assistant Director, Political Affairs brother and his family all survived the virus. Herman Merritt On Another Closing Now we have this beam of hope on the Assistant Director John Khani n Nov.18, New York DOE regarding their potential plans immediate horizon. Special Assistant to President City reached a 7-day to reopen buildings. All decisions • • • Gary Goldstein COVID19 positivity rate must be based on the input of health CSA Conference Chair average of 3 percent for experts and must be shared with hances are when you sit down to Pierre Lehmuller the citywide positivity rate school leaders with enough time for Thanksgiving dinner, you won’t have CSA Historian for COVID19 which was the thresh- them to implement any new plan C as many guests as in days gone by. Manfred Korman O old the Mayor had established in July successfully. There will undoubtedly It wouldn’t be safe. No matter what, you’ll CSA Retiree Chapter for a citywide closure of all public be more uncertainty ahead, and the feel lucky to be at the table. My three kids Gayle Lockett, Chair have grown up and Barbara and I don’t see Mark Brodsky, Director schools. Schools closed just as this City must find ways to communicate issue was heading off to the printer, more efficiently and clearly with them as much as before, so having them all so the closure and transition to remote school communities than it has there together will be a gift to us. All of us CSA NEWS learning as well as reopening will be thus far. In addition, the city and will have our separate wishes. One of mine will be that the new president will deliver Editor covered further in the future. Below is DOE must continue to find ways to Chuck Wilbanks Mark Cannizzaro’s statement on the improve remote learning and provide on his promise of being the president for Design Consultant most recent closure, the day after it all students with devices and access all Americans, whether or not they voted Michele Pacheco took effect. to the Internet. We salute and thank for him. We need that right now. Another Production Assistant “CSA members have nobly guided our CBO-based ECE directors and will be that our union remains as strong as Christine Altman their communities through uncer- assistant directors whom the city and it has become so it can continue to see you tainty, fear, and trauma since March, state have deemed essential workers through the hardest of times, and the great and we have the utmost confidence and who remain in their centers times to come, and help you and yours enjoy CSA News (004-532) is published the lives you deserve in bad times and good. monthly except July and August for $35 they will now successfully lead us serving their communities. We will per year per member by CSA, 40 Rector through the necessary transitions continue to provide members with Happy Thanksgiving to you and your St., NY, NY 10006. Periodical postage loved ones. paid at Manhattan, NY, and additional and changes in the coming days critical updates during the challeng- mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send and weeks. We have already begun ing weeks ahead.” address changes to CSA News, 40 conversations with the city and –Mark Cannizzaro Rector St., NY, NY 10006. Mark Cannizzaro is president of the Council of School Supervisors and Administrators. Nov. 2020 CSA NEWS 3

Resources For Your School Milestones at NYC The Librarian Is In Association

BY MELISSA JACOBS information literacy, civic responsibility, understanding Of Assistant multiple perspectives, design, personalization of learning, wenty-plus years ago, I began my career at an ele- digital citizenship, and social and emotional growth. The mentary school in District 22 in South Brooklyn. I Empire State Information Fluency Continuum (ESIFC), Principals was hired as a school librarian and was thrilled to developed by the New York City School Library System in have the opportunity to build a robust program at 2009 and re-imagined in 2019, provides a PreK-12 contin- Supervision a school with a neglected space in need of a trans- uum of information literacy and inquiry skills. It is built Tformation. On my first day, the principal introduced me at around the Stripling Model of Inquiry, which is designed a full staff meeting as a “real librarian.” I chuckled, being so to help students develop the skills and agency to be critical English green to school librarianship and new to the school system consumers and creators of information as they navigate and BY BARBARA ROTHENBERG that I did not understand or appreciate the true meaning succeed in their academic and personal lives. behind that title. What is a real librarian? Real school librarians are educated and prepared to be The New York City Association In the NYC DOE, school libraries vary considerably. instructional leaders who collaborate with other teachers to of Assistant Principals Supervision Certified school librarians manage some; school aides or infuse skills across all curriculum areas. They deliver profes- – English mourns the passing of parent volunteers are in charge of others. I have walked into sional learning opportunities to staff, support families with Lila Rieman (In Memoriam, page grand spaces with gleaming bookshelves, the result of rich creative programming and opportunities beyond the walls 4). In her retirement, Lila was programs led by NYS certified school librarians. In those of the library, develop culturally reflective collections, create a vital force that kept this pro- rooms, one can feel the energy: Students browse shelves and a culture of literacy and reading, connects with community fessional organization alive and read brightly colored books, while teachers provide small partners, and impacts the daily lives of all students. meaningful. group instruction. Conversations are heard throughout, and We are all consumers of information. As educators, we As treasurer and membership learning is everywhere. are conscious of opposing viewpoints and opinions that chair, she created and regularly I have also entered libraries that news media disseminates daily. Our students are less savvy updated the exhaustive list of high have been so neglected that the and need to be taught how to distinguish real information school professional leaders in this shelves are buckling from books from disinformation. We need to prepare our students to subject area throughout the city that still have Richard Nixon in the navigate this world to become actively engaged citizens and kept it current, a major task White House and use words that who participate in democracy and are ready for college and in a school system of this size. She are too racist to repeat and should careers. often designed and conducted have been removed from the col- As schools reopen and rebuild, take the time to evaluate workshops at our meetings which lection years ago. Some library your current school library. Does your school community were always geared to the needs of programs have been abandoned have the opportunities afforded by a robust school library high school assistant principals of for so long that teachers may not program with a real school librarian? English and supervisors. Together, have any recollection of how to we attended regular CSA meetings interact directly with a school Evaluation of a School Library Program as representatives of NYCAAPSE. librarian and students don’t realize Invite our team to evaluate the current situation. We can Lila’s active leadership in our orga- that there is a world of books and assess the facility, observe the current program, and appraise nization and the subject area she information extending beyond a the condition of the collection. Each library is unique and loved and chose as her life’s work Melissa Jacobs basket in the back of a classroom. should be built to meet the needs of the school community. was exemplary. I, as well as many The discrepancy and inequities are We can support your school during the entire process and others, will miss her. I will always what impels my daily work. We need to appreciate how much set realistic goals and a timeframe for building a program. It miss our friendship. value real libraries with real librarians add. takes years to develop a program that becomes a part of the Our organization is very Every student deserves access. Every student deserves a school culture and community. pleased that Suzane Thomas school library managed by an effective and qualified school Jacobs, AP English at Midwood librarian providing instruction and access to a curated collec- Collection Development High School, a former member tion with various mediums that meet their needs. Gone are Libraries should include a diverse range of materials to of NYCAAPSE’s Executive Board the days of a gray-haired librarian with a bun in her hair read- meet the student body’s instructional needs and personal when it was very active, is taking ing stories aloud in a rocking chair. School librarians are inno- interests. A library collection should be engaging, current, over the leadership of this import- vative instructional leaders bringing to the table knowledge of relevant, aligned to the curriculum, culturally reflective, and ant organization. See the next curriculum, technology, literacy, collaboration, and inquiry. include various formats that meet the needs of all readers issue of CSA News for a message At the beginning of the pandemic, the NYC School and learners. Collections should consist of print and non- from her. Library System (NYCSLS) – the team I manage – published print resources inclusive of databases, eBooks, and audio- the Translation of Practice, guiding school librarians on how books on various reading levels. A well-developed library is Barbara Rothenberg is the former to quickly pivot from in-school to remote instruction by cre- cost-effective and provides opportunities for all students to president of NYCAAPSE ating virtual libraries, providing accessibility to resources, read, inquire, and learn. Our team is available to weed (AKA curating eBooks, evaluating learning management systems throwing out the dusty outdated material) and help build a and databases, and guiding their colleagues in the devel- new collection. opment of online classrooms to master and provide a rich blended learning experience. This was accomplished in the Automation Teachers’ School library collections should be automated. The New York City School Library System maintains an online school Retirement ‘Every student deserves a library, and library catalog via Destiny. Destiny Library Automated Catalog is a shared catalog that provides students online System access to a curated collection with access to a searchable catalog of books, including print and various mediums to meet their needs.’ non-print resources. If your school library is not automated, October 2020 we can work with you to automate the collection. Learning Unit Values how to use an online catalog is a lifelong skill students need to access school, public and academic libraries. Prepare your Diversified Equity first week of shutdown. students to be lifelong learners, readers, and library users. Fund: 104.092 The evidence clearly shows these initiatives transformed teaching and learning during a time of chaos. Librarians Hire a Real School Librarian Balanced Fund: 16.574 from the NYC School Library Association offered a Virtual School librarians are essential to building and maintain- International Equity Book Parade highlighting LGBTQ authors and books cele- ing an effective library. NYCSLS is currently working with six Fund: 10.685 brating diversity. The NYCSLS team procured a collection NYS graduate schools to recruit and retain effective teachers of vetted eBooks and databases that are available for free into the profession. If you are interested in hiring a school Sustainable Equity citywide, acquired an eReader platform (Sora) for all students librarian, posting a position, or in need of resumes of poten- Fund: 22.615 and teachers to use with single sign-on with DOE creden- tial applicants, or if you’re interested in becoming a librarian, U.S Equity Index tials, and curated a free collection of children’s eBooks about please contact Melissa Jacobs at [email protected]. Fund: 11.998 Covid-19 that has received over 97,000 views from around the world. EA Melissa Jacobs is the Director of Library Services for the International Equity School libraries are a nucleus of learning, and school NYC Department of Education/New York City School Library Index Fund: 10.851 librarians build a foundation for all learners. They teach System. She started her career as an elementary school librarian www.trsnyc.org through all content areas, focusing on critical thinking, and then spent 14 years as the coordinator for Library Services. 4 CSA NEWS Nov. 2020

In Memoriam n HOWARD ALTMAN, 89, died March 14. time with her children and grandchildren. In Mr. Altman grew up on the Lower East Side of addition to her husband of over 60 years, Linguist, Adventurer Manhattan, where he was “immersed in all the she is survived by her son Philip and his wife lore and grit for which the Lower East Side was Nancy; her daughter Andrea and her hus- icholas Falzone, Teaching Fellows of known, especially in the 1930s and 40s,” said band Jim; grandchildren Daniel, Joe, Jillian N40, assistant NY program, and his daughter, Ailene Altman Mitchell, princi- and Elianna, and many more dear and loving principal of English earned a master’s pal of MS 88 in Park Slope. He served in the friends and relatives. at Pathways in degree in education Army during the Korean War and went on to n LILA RIEMAN, 76, died Aug. 12. Born in Technology HS from City University study architecture at City College, where he Brooklyn, she attended Sheepshead Bay HS. (P-TECH) in Bedford- of NY in 2005, an met Ruth, his wife of 63 years. Mrs. Altman She received her BA and MA from Brooklyn Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, advanced certificate became a history teacher at Midwood HS, College. Mrs. Rieman began her long career died Oct. 29. At press in teaching ESL from and Mr. Altman became chairman of John Jay as an English teacher in 1965, and spent years time, the cause was Queens College, HS Physical Education Department, a position teaching at Canarsie HS. In 1990, she became undetermined. and an advanced he held until he retired in 1991. During his Assistant Principal (English) at Columbus HS in Mr. Falzone was certificate in School tenure at John Jay, Mr. Altman coached the the Bronx, and continued in that position until born in Michigan and Building Leadership men’s soccer team to several championship retirement in 2002. After retirement, she con- grew up in the Detroit from Baruch College. titles. “A mentor to his children and countless tinued to work with student teachers through others, Howard was known for his strength, suburbs, on a small From 2005 Columbia University’s Teacher Education island in the Detroit Nicholas Falzone through June of wisdom and kindness which was always on Program. She also maintained her strong com- River called Grosse 2012, Mr. Falzone display but in the most modest, unassuming mitment to the NYC Association of Assistant Ile. He graduated from Grosse Ile HS taught English at John Adams HS in manner,” his daughter said. “He was able to Principals (English), an organization which she before enrolling in the University Queens. In July, 2012, he was hired lead with just a few poignant words or by the served as both Secretary and Treasurer before of Michigan in Ann Arbor where he by P-TECH principal Rashid Davis to simple eloquence of his own example. He was and after her retirement. “Her colleagues con- earned a bachelor’s degree in English teach English and serve as the school’s loved and respected by many in the NY and sidered her a backbone of the organization, and French. He graduated in 1998. ESL coordinator. He held that posi- Brooklyn educational community.” Mr. Altman especially after changes in the DOE produced was predeceased by his parents, his brother, many small schools to which Lila reached out From an early age, Mr. Falzone tion through Aug. 2016, when he Joseph, and his sister, Florence. In addition to tirelessly,” said Michael Rieman, her husband loved languages and traveling, said his was appointed assistant principal of his wife and daughter, he is survived by his of 53 years. “For her, it was a labor of love.” mother, Theresa Falzone. He spent the English, a position he held at the time other daughter, Laurie Refael, his son, Aaron, In addition to her husband, Mrs. Rieman is summer after his junior year of HS as of his death. his grandchildren Ilan, Jack, Noah, Sarah and survived by two daughters, Emily Rieman and an exchange student in Spain, and the “We welcomed Nicholas Peter Benjamin and his great grandchild, Jo-el. Erica Serbin, and three grandchildren. summer after his junior year in college Falzone to the P-TECH community he studied French in Switzerland. As year two of our existence, in school n JOSEPH T. DEMARTINO, 81, died on March n ABRAHAM SHELTON JR., 82, died July 2. He he was growing up, there was a large year 2012-2013,” wrote Mr. Davis. 22 from COVID19, in FL. Born in Brooklyn, he lived in Alexander City, AL, the town where he Japanese population near his home “Nicholas’s death has been a pain- graduated from Brooklyn College. He married was born. He graduated from the Alexander because Mazda was building a man- ful shock to our community. I have his college sweetheart, Joann Cavallo, in 1962 City Laurel Colored HS in 1956, before enlist- ufacturing plant there, and he began known him for nine years and have and began teaching in Brownsville in a junior ing in the US Marine Corps. He left active teaching himself the language. had the pleasure of mentoring him HS where he spent 25 years. After earning duty in 1958, but served in the Marine Corps his administrative degree, he returned to his Reserves until 1962. Mr. Shelton enrolled at Within months of his college and hiring him both as a teacher and District 14 roots in Williamsburg, where he Tennessee State University as a music major graduation, Mr. Falzone moved to NY an administrator. He will be dearly served as an assistant principal at PS 17 and and was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, the first and settled in Park Slope. He worked missed.” as principal for three years at PS 132 before black college fraternity in the US. He marched in retail and used his language skills He traveled frequently – to Iceland, retiring in 1995. After losing his wife, a NYC with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and partic- to land a job at a Japanese hair salon. Mexico, Japan, Europe, and through- teacher, in 1998, he moved to Boca Raton, ipated in sit-ins. Mr. Shelton married his high- Fluent in Spanish and French, he was out the USA. “He was open to new where he enjoyed golf and trips to the race- school sweetheart, Shirley Ann Glenn in 1959, also teaching himself Arabic. experiences,” said his mother. She track with friends. “Even as a supervisor, he and after two years at TSU, he moved to NYC “He’d wanted to move to New said her son made and maintained was always a strong supporter of teachers and where he worked as a janitor, a letter carrier York City since he was 13,” said his friendships worldwide. In addition to the UFT, and of course CSA,” said his friend and a special-delivery messenger for the USPS. mother. “He loved the stimulation, his mother, Mr. Falzone is survived by and colleague, Michael Tramonte, retired prin- He earned a BA in elementary education from the diversity in the city. He loved his father, Stephen Falzone, a younger cipal of JHS 50 in Brooklyn. Mr. DeMartino is Queens College in 1966 and began his career other cultures. He loved the energy.” brother, Daniel, and his partner, Dr. survived by his son Michael, daughters Terry, as a sixth grade Mr. Falzone enrolled in the Lance Keene. Karen and Michelle and ten grandchildren. Mr. teacher at PS 45 in Tramonte said that every year, Mr. DeMartino South Ozone Park. traveled back to NY to spend holidays with his In 1972, Mr. Shelton n family, and every summer he would be joined STANLEY L. WEBER, 92, died Oct. 15. He for District 25 in Queens. In retirement, Mrs. received a certifi- lived in Boynton Beach, FL. Born in Brooklyn, Yarmoff liked cooking and traveling. She by his children, their spouses and his grand- cate in professional children, at a vacation spot in North Carolina. graduated from the former Erasmus Hall HS enjoyed ballet and theatre. She and her hus- administration and and Brooklyn College. After his service in the band, Conrad Yarmoff, whom she married in n JEANNE LOCASCIO, 83, died May 25. She supervision from Army during the Korean War, he began his 1972, were honored for their work with the graduated from Hunter College and received Brooklyn College. He career as a fifth-grade teacher at PS 175 in NYS Office for the Aging. They had moved an MA from Teacher’s College at Columbia worked as the direc- Brownsville. He became an assistant principal to Plainview, L.I., in 1973, and her daughter, University. Mrs. LoCascio began her teaching tor of the Evening there, than served as an assistant principal Susan Hicks, said they were active with seniors career in 1958 at PS 20 in the Bronx, where Community Night Abraham Shelton and acting principal at PS 197 in Brooklyn. in Nassau County for many years, providing she met her future husband, Vincent LoCascio, Center for teens at He retired in 1988 as the principal of PS 269 assistance and serving as emissaries to the as they waited to punch the time clock and August Martin HS in in Brooklyn’s District 22. He enjoyed read- state on the senior community’s behalf. Mrs. she said hello and gave him a big smile. They Queens and at PS 123 in Jamaica, Queens, ing, movies, tennis and chess, and traveled Yarmoff was also a longtime, active mem- were engaged three months later and mar- and became AP at PS 45, where he also taught extensively worldwide, and was great at the ber of the executive board of CSA’s Retiree ried the day after school ended in June 1959. music. He went on to serve as principal of PS game show “Jeopardy!,” said his daughter, Chapter Long Island Unit, and served as She went on to be a teacher at PS 72 in the 96 in Ozone Park, Queens. Mr. Shelton retired Robin Lammon. Mr. and Mrs. Weber moved to membership chair for several years. She also Bronx and later a principal at PS 182, also in in 1995 after 32 years of service and he and his Boynton Beach after he retired. Mr. Weber is became a special court advocate for NYS, the Bronx. She also was an instructor at Iona wife returned to Alexander City. Mr. Shelton survived by his wife of 65 years, Roxanne, his monitoring and advocating for children in College in New Rochelle and a mentor consul- performed with the Max Roach Jazz Choir and daughters, Robin and Jill, and his grandchil- foster care. After her husband’s death in 2016, tant supervisor guiding new teachers in Port Carr-Hill Singers which gave him the opportu- dren Farrell, Paul, Adam, and Jordyn. Mrs. Yarmoff became a feeding assistant at Chester and Ardsley, nity to travel in Europe, and sing on a recorded n RENEE H. YARMOFF, 85, a resident of Long Island State Veterans home in Stony NY. “Her passion for compilation, “To the Max, with Max Roach Brook, L.I., and then a peer advocate at Zucker- providing the best and Jazz Choir,” and sing in the choral version Roslyn, NY, died Oct. 5. Mrs. Yarmoff was born and raised in East New York, graduated from Hillside Hospital in Queens. With a friend, she quality education for of the Broadway musical “Porgy and Bess.” developed and managed the bookstore at all students was evi- Along with his wife, Mr. Shelton was an active Thomas Jefferson HS, earned her bachelor’s degree at City College of NY. She married Bryant Library Friends’ Bookstore. She was dent in every facet of member of the National Association of Negro involved in the advisory board of the town her career,” said Mr. Business and Professional Women’s Clubs. An Bernard Aroesty and the couple lived in NY and then moved to Virginia, but she was wid- of North Hempstead’s Project Independence. LoCascio, who is the avid tennis player and skier, Mr. Shelton was a “Renee was a loving, dedicated and devot- retired principal of member of the American Tennis Association, owed in1966. With two pre-school-aged chil- dren, she returned to NY and earned a mas- ed parent, grandparent – a true professional PS 102 in the Bronx. and a member of the National Brotherhood and a loving, passionate and selfless spirit. “The impact she had of Skiers. In addition to his wife, Shirley, Mr. ter’s degree from Queens College and a pro- Jeanne LoCascio fessional diploma from C.W. Post University She was an educator, a student of life and an on students and Shelton is survived by his daughter, Sharrell advocate for those who were powerless to do teachers is immea- Haygood, his son, Sean Shelton, six grandchil- on Long Island. Mrs. Yarmoff began her career in 1970 as a kindergarten teacher at PS 201 in for themselves,”said her family. She is survived surable. “ Mr. LoCascio said his wife enjoyed dren, Atisha and Latisha Burks, Keeyanna and by her children, Susan Hicks; her son, David hosting elaborate dinner parties for family and Keehlan Haygood, and Brianna and Samantha Queens. Later, she focused on special educa- tion, and eventually she became an assistant Yarmoff, and four grandchildren – Jake, Jamie friends, which she made appear effortless. She Shelton, and seven of his siblings. He is pre- and Scott Yarmoff, and Benjamin Hicks. enjoyed operas at the Metropolitan Opera, deceased by two daughters, Sherry Harrell chair of special education at another school. Broadway Shows and concerts at Carnegie and Sheila Shelton, and two sisters, Willie V. She retired in 1995, after serving for 10 years as Send obituary notices to CSA News Editor Hall. He said her greatest joy was spending Dubose and Chrisandra Shelton. chair of the Committee on Special Education Chuck Wilbanks at [email protected]. Nov. 2020 CSA NEWS 5

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION NATION More Departures Among Officials Labor BY CHUCK WILBANKS the lives of children better. Cheryl Watson-Harris left “ill-equipped” to prepare OHIO Two days later, Brandon to become superintendent students. With a war chest Levy Passes As New York City’s schools Cardet-Hernandez, a former of the public school system of $100 million, XQ’s mis- were on the brink of closing principal of Urban Assembly of DeKalb County, Ga. And sion has been to start 10 new The Cleveland Metropolitan School a second time, two more top Bronx Academy of Letters former DOE Chief Operating schools around the country District had an election night vic- education officials headed for who rose to be a senior edu- Officer Ursulina Ramirez with promises of innovation. tory with the passage of its tax levy. The school district was at the end jobs elsewhere. cation advisor to Mayor Bill took a job with XQ Institute, In spite of the vast sums of a levy cycle, in addition to hav- Donalda Chumney, super- deBlasio, announced he is which is funded by the of money, trouble has dogged ing incurred unplanned expenses intendent of District 2 was decamping to Boston, where Emerson Collective, run by Ms. Powell Jobs’ initiative. In due to COVID19. The levy will be he will be the executive direc- Laurene Powell Jobs, the Somerville MA, for example, approved on Nov. 17 by the in place for 10 years, at a cost of Norwalk public schools to tor of The Ivy Street School widow of Steve Jobs and one where an enthusiastic group $175 a year for each $100,000 of a become that district’s chief near Boston, a day and resi- of the country’s most deep of educators were unable to home’s value. Had it not passed, academic officer. The DOE dential school that serves stu- pocketed backers of charter complete their plans for a the District would’ve been forced to promised to appoint an dents with disabilities ranging schools and other privatiza- new school despite a $10 mil- close 25 schools and reduce staffing interim superintendent for from autism to brain injuries. tion initiatives. lion grant from XQ when it costs by $10 million. (ideastream) one of the city’s highest per- Despite the ongoing crisis XQ’s co-founder and became clear that the school forming districts. in New York’s schools, Mr. CEO Russlynn Ali, a former would cannibalize estab- NEW YORK In a letter to principals Cardet-Hernandez said his Obama administration official lished funding for the already and colleagues discussing her departure came at a “natural and a fervent opponent of existent high school in the CUNY Class Sizes departure, Ms. Chumney said time for a transition.” educator tenure, has called district. In Delaware, another CUNY class sizes have been on the “We can, and we must, con- Earlier this year, former America’s high schools “dan- XQ school closed due to low rise. A decrease in funding due to tinue to collaborate” to make First Deputy Chancellor gerously outmoded” and enrollment. COVID19 has resulted in adjunct layoffs and merged online classes. A petition is being circulated demanding class sizes be aligned to acceptable standards. Hiring additional faculty to serve the needs of remote learning is called for, ECE Seeks Equity, Calls For Contract Talks along with prioritizing the re-hire of faculty laid off or whose hours were Continued from Page 1 protective measures and considerations be working from home; reduced. (PSC CUNY) even more vociferous in our calls for as their DOE colleagues. Exacerbating 2) Are predominately women of contract talks. Below is a letter Mr. the divide is the salary disparity between color; WEST VIRGINIA Rubio sent to the Commissioner of the groups and the City’s unwillingness 3)Are thus far only “essential” when Strike Empowerment Labor Relations to insist that the city to remedy it. it comes to the demands for their Nurses in Huntington voted Oct. treat members with the same respect CSA represented supervisors in city extraordinary sacrifices and ser- 31 to authorize a strike if needed. as their DOE counterparts and provide funded early childhood centers have vices provided; and They’ve been in contract negoti- members with a new contract worthy of been deemed “essential”, a designation 4) Do not have a contract and the ations for nine months, seeking members’ talent, dedication and profes- necessarily requiring the highest level City has not committed to give increased staffing to protect qual- sionalism. The text of the letter is below. of commitment, performance and sac- them a contract commensurate ity of care. They have reportedly rifice in carrying out their professional with the job duties which the City been forced to pay sharp increases Ms. Renee Campion Commissioner responsibilities. Our member sacrifices acknowledges are “essential.” in their own health insurance costs NYC Office of Labor Relations often result in the subordination of their Our members deserve a contract and are being asked to assume 22 Cortlandt St, Floor 12-14 own personal best interest, as well as which matches the salary level of their additional costs for short-term New York, NY 10007 those of their own children and fami- DOE counterparts and is reflective of disability benefits and to reduce Dear Commissioner Campion: lies. However, such heroic service is not the “essential” services they provide. sick leave benefits, even as they As the City prepares to pivot public reflected in their compensation and our Please confirm whether OLR will agree have to quarantine for COVID-19 schools back to a fully remote model it requests to bargain have been ignored. to meet to address these matters. exposure. (SEIU) is once again sending the signal that These members: Sincerely, CBO based early childhood educators 1) Are paid much less then their Henry Rubio PENNSYLVANIA are not worthy of the same health based counterparts in the DOE, who will CSA Executive Vice President Strike Averted Philadelphia teachers have reached a tentative one-year contract agreement, after nar- rowly averting a strike. The union negotiated a stringent safety plan for schools, to be included Despite Virus, NYSFSA Is In The Game as a separate memorandum of understanding. An informal vote, BY PETER MCNALLY local education agencies. Buffalo that protects student privacy including teachers, counselors, and Yonkers started the school but also works to have accurate secretaries, nurses, classroom As I write this in late October, year with fully remote instruc- COVID reporting. assistants and other school work- Albany streets are quiet and the tion. New York City offered both We also discuss other import- ers showed 89% were in favor of Capitol and NYSED buildings hybrid and fully remote. Across ant topics at our monthly the contract. Pre-K-Grade 2 stu- are closed to visitors. That has the state, school districts were Stakeholder meetings with Dr. dents had a return date of Nov. not stopped the NYS Federation reporting shortages of hardware, Rosa and staff. In these extremely 9; there’s no return date yet for of School Administrators from bandwidth difficulties and some- trying times, the APPR (Annual grades 3-12. (The Inquirer) being an active advocate for times no Internet access at all. Dr. Betty Rosa. With a $20 mil- Professional Performance Rating) school leaders. NYSFA has par- NYSED has been trying to lion federal Rethink Education for teachers and principals needs DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA ticipated in numerous Zoom collect data from the 720 school Models grant, NYSED is offer- to be revisited, as well as required Union Statement conferences with the Board of districts as well as private and ing professional development state testing for students. New Regents, NYSED commissioners charter schools. Their first sur- over three years focused on six York State is still mandated by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said that the Biden/Harris and legislators. In addition, our vey only resulted in a 50 percent core competencies utilizing dis- the federal government to evalu- win is a victory for the labor move- Albany-based lobbying firm, response rate. A second digital tance learning. NYSED has also ate students in grades 3 to 8 and ment and praised union voters for Hinman Straub, has been actively equity survey has been issued scheduled numerous regional high school, although that could delivering. He said the AFL-CIO monitoring legislative commit- and the Board of Regents will meetings via Zoom on the topic change depending on the out- stands ready to work with the tees and NYSED. review the results. Digital equity of “substantial equivalency in come of the election. president-elect and his team to NYSFSA was involved in is obviously a major issue that public and private schools.” A My closing wishes are for you provide emergency support and the statewide NYSED Regional needs to be addressed quickly in new, more user friendly parental all to stay warm, stay safe and services in the face of COVID19. Reopening Task Force meetings our state and country. NYSED dashboard, has been launched stay healthy For the long term, he called to conducted over the summer. Our is planning to conduct a digital and is accessible on the NYSED secure the right of workers to local units have been involved in equity summit in January, 2021. website. During this pandemic, Peter McNally is the executive freely join a union. (AFL-CIO) daily negotiations over health There has been a flurry of the NYSED and the NYDOH director of NYSFSA. CSA President — Compiled by and safety, job protection and new initiatives under NYSED’s have collaborated to develop a Mark Cannizzaro is NYSFSA’s Christine Altman educational concerns with their new interim commissioner, COVID reporting data website president. 6 CSA NEWS Nov. 2020

NATION Dr. Douglas The Welfare Fund V. Hathaway Education Ensuring Coverage And Reimbursements DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA uestion: I am an Assistant Principal ible of $50 per person, $150 per family, after Biased Software in Staten Island. My spouse was just which your co-payment is 10 percent for a Speech recognition software, diagnosed as diabetic and prescribed generic medication, 25 percent for a preferred which is used in schools to sup- Metformin. Our prescription plan, brand name medication, and 35 percent for port students with disabilities, QOptumRx, says the medication is not covered. non-preferred, brand-name medications. recently came under scrutiny Why is it not covered? Medications considered to be for maintenance from the National Academy of ANSWER: In this case, her medication is of health, such as blood pressure, choles- Sciences USA. Its finding – voice covered by your health plan. Since the mid terol, and asthma medications must be filled recognition software is racially 1990’s there has been a mandate in New York through the OptumRx mail order service biased. Upon researching, the State that diabetic medications and testing after three fills at a local pharmacy. The mail Academy found all the major supplies are to be covered at a low or no order co-payment, for a 60-day supply, is $10 voice tech companies demon- copayment by the basic health plan. Since for a generic medication, $25.00 for a pre- strated “significant race dispar- ities” and were twice as likely your health plan covers the medication, please ferred brand-name medication, and $35 for a to incorrectly transcribe audio present your medical ID card to the pharmacy. non-preferred brand name medication. from Blacks compared to whites. To expand on this subject, active in-service If you have any questions concerning Reportedly, tech companies are Active CSA participants and their covered depen- which plan should cover your medication aware of the challenge of recog- dents have three different places to get medi- please contact the Welfare Fund office. nizing speech variations and are In-Service cations. Injectable and chemotherapy-related Retirees are covered by the prescription working to improve the technol- medications are covered by the New York City plan associated with their health plan. PICA ogy. (Scientific American) Union PICA program, a benefit administered jointly coverage extends until age 65, when Medicare Members by the Municipal Labor Committee (MLC) regulations govern coverage and availability of INDIANA and City of New York. This fund was created medications. 20 years ago to relieve pressure on welfare Grading Schools And Their funds due to the exceptionally high cost of SPECIAL NOTE To Our For the second year, the Indiana the new injectable and biologic medications. Medicare-Eligible Retirees State Board of Education agreed Covered Those medications covered by the PICA pro- Late in November all Medicare-eligible to “hold schools harmless” in Family gram are thus excluded from Welfare Fund retirees will receive a letter from Social annual ratings – not giving any coverage. Security showing your Medicare Part B premi- school a lower grade than they Have A major feature of the Affordable Care ums and any IRMAA assessments, for Part B received in the 2017-2018 or Act, also known as Obamacare, is coverage and Part D, that you must pay in 2021. This 2018-19 school year. The can- of medications considered preventive by the letter also shows your social security benefit celling of the 2020 statewide Three health plan. Generic versions of many popular for 2021. assessments impaired the State’s medications, such as low doses of statin drugs ability to assign A-F grades for Different Please save this letter if it indicates you will the 2019-20 year. Rather, the to control cholesterol, female contraceptives pay IRMAA. You will need this letter in the Department of Education com- Places and, beginning July 1, 2020, Truvada and now Spring of 2022 to claim 2021 IRMAA reim- pared each school’s grade for a its generic version used as a prevention for bursements from the City of New York. span of three years and assigned To Get HIV. Just as with the diabetic medication, use While you are saving this letter in a safe the best grade from those years, your health plan ID card to have these medi- place, where you can easily find it, please look based on proficiency on exams, Medicine cations filled. for the letter from Nov. 2019. That letter as well as growth in the elemen- All other medications, such as higher shows what you are paying this year, and will tary and middle schools. High doses of statin drugs to treat high cholesterol, be required to file for any IRMAA reimburse- schools were also rated on four- blood pressure medications and asthma treat- ment in the spring of 2021. year graduation rates, college/ ments, are covered by the CSA Welfare Fund’s career readiness and five-year prescription drug benefit administered by Dr. Douglas V. Hathaway is CSA Welfare Fund improvement. (WKVI) OptumRx. Medications purchased at a local Administrator. You can email him at dhatha- pharmacy are subjected to an annual deduct- [email protected]. MARYLAND Internet Inequity As many schools continue to rely on Internet access for remote and GARY GOLDSTEIN hybrid learning, the disparity in internet access continues to be an issue. Educators call for govern- Travel Desk ment funding to close the gap. In two surveys, more than 2/3 of the district leaders and principals said funds are needed for families in The Question: To Sail, Or Not To Sail their communities. Reportedly, only 11% of the respondents said BY GARY GOLDSTEIN that all students in their district Hotels As stated prior the major chains have put strict pro- have the level of internet access Tired of being teased by National Geographic? Are you they need. Those seeking federal tocols in place for your safety. Some facilities within the yearning for those delectable peanuts served onboard your funds point out that without a property may not be available when you arrive. favorite airline? Do you miss the opportunity to take a photo national solution, the country will likely further historical inequities. wearing your lifejacket? Does Netflix no longer serve your Cruising (Education Week) needs? Well here’s your update regarding travel. As we go to press I can report that the CDC has received Our 2021-22 Travel Desk programs are available for your a detailed program of protocols created by the major cruise RHODE ISLAND perusal. Send me an email at [email protected] and I will lines. The Royal Caribbean Cruise Corp. (RCCL, Celebrity forward you our latest offerings. and Azamara) have teamed with the Norwegian Holding Civic Education Corp. (NCL, Oceania, and Regent) under a program called Rhode Island high school students Airline Travel “The Healthy Sail Panel” to include: testing, screening, and recently brought a case before a The major carriers are planning a full return to many exposure reduction; sanitation and ventilation; response, Federal District Court judge who, of the itineraries from the NY metro area scheduled for contingency planning and execution; destination and although supportive of their desire November. If you plan to travel domestically or interna- excursion planning; mitigation risks for crew. The Carnival for a civics education, did not rule tionally, you will need to research entry and exit require- Corp (Carnival, Princess, Holland America, Costa, Seabourn in their favor. The judge indicated ments for your destination as well as mandated regula- and Cunard) is creating a similar proposal for the CDC. that the U.S. Constitution does not tions once you have returned to the NY area. Your choice for travel is a personal one and must be support the idea that there is a Many of us favor travel to the Caribbean. Please note respected. If you need assistance or an opinion regarding constitutional right to civics edu- that each port of entry has specific entry requirements, the complex world of travel, I invite you to call me (917 cation. However, the students plan including in many cases a negative Covid test result usu- 856 1095) with questions. I am in direct communication to appeal. (Education Week) ally within 72 hours of your intended arrival. This is fluid with those of you booked into the future and will continu- — Compiled by and needs to be checked several times prior to departure. ally update you accordingly. Christine Altman Nov. 2020 CSA NEWS 7 RETIREE Chapter CHAIR’S MESSAGE Gayle Lockett CSA Retirees Zooming Lots To Be Grateful For t is said that, after years of All Across The Nation some having voter apathy, this election brought voters out in droves. How many of us sat at the edge of our seats, waiting Ifor the latest news on who won About National Politics the election?. How many of us participated in the mail-in or early BY RON IMUNDI liaison to one another and to commitment to protect the voting? Regardless if your presiden- set an agenda to move forward. achievements that they have tial candidate did or did not win, For the first time, the Retiree The theme of the meeting earned through years of hard this year’s presidential election Chapter’s political liaisons of was Building Relationships work and dedication. exceeded past voting history in all of the 18 units have united and Developing a National We are proud that these regard to the sheer number of peo- to share thoughts and insights Focus. We titled our September combined efforts helped result ple turning out to vote. about the current political land- meetings Elections have in one of the highest voter turn- I found it extremely meaningful to vote early this year. scape across the country. Each Consequences: How to Use outs in early voting history. A good friend recalled how her parents and everyone living unit has a designated mem- Momentum to Build Political Zoom technology has also in the state of Alabama in the 1940’s had to pay a poll tax, ber who is a political liaison Capital. Our unit liaisons allowed members to feel that as a prerequisite to voter registration, of around $2 in order who keeps the unit members in North Carolina, Arizona, they are part of the action and to vote, about $40 today. Today, it’s clear that around the informed of the current state Virginia, Georgia and Florida the push to create change. country, state election authorities need to improve the early of political affairs in their geo- brought up many concerns. Members living across the coun- voting procedures. It is unconscionable that some voters graphic region. We refined our focus on getting try are now being heard. CSARC had to wait in long lines and others had to travel long dis- In 2020, finding ourselves in out the vote and coordinated Executive Board meetings, tances to find limited drop off boxes. In many states the the midst of a pandemic and a with the Florida chapter of the under the leadership of Chair early voting lines took up to 5 hours to vote as well as on crucial election, CSA acted. Mark Alliance of Retired Americans, Gayle Lockett, have included election day. In NY, it was reported that some individuals Brodsky, CSARC director, tasked who were working to get out the unit leaders from California, desperate to exercise their constitutional right as a citizen to Mitra Lutchman, CSARC legis- the vote in Florida. Our most Florida, Arizona, the Carolina vote, paid others to wait in line for them as early as 5 am in lative liaison, who worked with recent meeting, on Oct. 29, was and Georgia. Special Zoom the morning rain. Janice Imundi, RC secretary, legis- called A Sense of Urgency (The events are now being planned We need to be vigilant and advocate for protecting what lative liaison, and Lower Hudson Big Push) – Accessing Resources by the leaders of Arizona and we have. Our political affairs team will continue holding valley Unit leader, planned Zoom to Get Out the Votes. We heard California that will provide PAC meetings, to keep us informed and to ask for your meetings with the representa- updates on congressional races opportunities for members in input, discuss and request retirees to serve on upcoming tives of all of the 18 retiree units in California, New Jersey and Hawaii, Colorado, Washington endorsement committees. PAC, on behalf of CSA, will con- across the country, including Florida. In some cases, each unit State and Utah to participate tinue to support candidates who support labor and unions New York, New Jersey, Arizona, was able to join existing phone and to stay connected. rights. But the political fight is not over. We must remain California, Georgia, Florida, the banks and get further involved The political action of each vigilant, especially in next year’s local elections. In NYC Carolinas, and the Mid-Atlantic to get out the vote in their state unit has been vibrant and grow- in 2021, we will be electing a new mayor, the comptrol- states. Supporting and partic- as well as some of the battle- ing. Members are learning from ler, most of the 51 city council seats, and four out of five ipating in this effort was CSA ground states. one another. We will continue borough presidents due to term limit expirations. Keep in Legislative Director Gabe Galluci, AFSA President Ernest Logan to be a force to be acknowledged mind, no matter where you reside, the NYC elections can and Assistant Directors Herman participated in each meeting, and respected. affect us all. It is important to elect candidates at the local, Merritt, Nashanta Lamont and providing insight on AFSA’s state and national level that support labor unions and pub- John Khani. connections with the battle- Ron Imundi is the political liai- lic educations. The first meeting in July ground states. President Logan son for the CSA Retiree Chapter’s 2020 provided an opportunity has long said that retirees are a Lower Hudson Valley Regional • • • to introduce each unit political secret army, with the time and Unit. nce again, kudos to the RC Secretary and RC Chair of Legislation Janice Imundi and RC Political Liaison OMitra Lutchman, our unit leaders, unit political coordinators, and the many retirees who kept the union informed of their states’ political concerns. In anticipation of the Thanksgiving holiday, it is fitting Virtual Classes And Lectures to take the time to thank and honor our veterans, our first responders, health care workers who worked tirelessly to BY LUCIE ELIO 11/24 - Art Deco – Mary Dono save Covid-19 patients, to those who continued providing 11/30 - Estate Planning, Wills & Trusts - services to keep cities functioning and the many organiza- The CSA Retiree Chapter is once again Wendy Goidel tions that provided meals to many workers who lost their offering the following virtual classes and jobs. Thank you to all who have showed so many acts of lectures to CSA RC members, at no charge, CSA’s December 2020 Virtual kindness during these extremely trying times. except for the last three events. To register Program via Zoom With gratitude, we, the RC Officers and RC Executive for any of the classes, email Retireeclasses@ Time: 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm EST Board, wish you warmest thoughts and best wishes for a csa-nyc.org and list the classes you would 12/1 - America’s First Ladies Part 2 – Marilyn memorable Thanksgiving! like. Please include: the class or lecture’s title, Carminio Be well, stay safe and stay positive. your name, your email and phone number. 12/3 - Funding Long-Term Care Including Medicare - W. Goidel In Unity, CSA’s November 2020 Virtual 12/8 - Seven Black Artists - Mary Dono Gayle Lockett Program via Zoom 12/9 - Writing & Critique – George Hopkins Time: 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm EST 12/10 - Women March - NYHS 11/16 - Broadway Musicals: Groups- Kare 12/14 - Alfred Hitchcock: Behind the Curtain Valen of Suspense- Max Alvarez 11/18 - Creative Writing (3pm EST) – George 12/15 - Hispanic Society Museum Hopkins 12/16 - Creative Writing – George Hopkins 11/19 - Tenement Museum 12/18 – The Making of White Christmas – Sal 11/23 - Cooking with Chef Kelly – (4pm EST) St. George And ProudCSAEndorsedUsEarly’ ‘CSA BelievedInMeAndI’mBlessed Transportation andInfrastructure– and Labor, we’realsolookingat be assigned? What committeesdoyou hopeto there.” We havedifferencesbutthe respect is the GreenNewDeal,MedicareforAll. ing thefundingformulaforschools, It’s acaseofideology:Isupportchang- mentorship. They’vebeenrespectful. shared thatrespectandaskedfortheir Hoyer. WhenIcalledeachofthem, [Rep.] JimClyburnandSteny Nancy Pelosi,[Rep.]GregoryMeeks, a tonofrespectfor[HouseSpeaker] coming. AttheendofdayIhave among theleadershipsofar? What hasbeenyourreception ing corporatePACmoney. place. Anddon’tforget:I’mnotaccept- am, andwhyIranforofficeinthefirst trauma-informed schools.That’swhoI ized testing,forrestorativejustice, equitable funding,againststandard- principal, Iwasfightingthestatefor not goingtobeco-optedbyit.Asa tem thatyoudon’tagreewith? about beingsubsumedintoasys- being whatitis,doyouworry that youranagainst.TheSwamp by theDemocratichierarchy freshmen orientationconducted attending school,asitwere,via and prettysoonyouwillbe You’re avictoriousinsurgent, Wilbanks thedayafterhewaselected. racial justice,housingandeducation. his congressionalcareeroneconomicand public schools.”Hehaspledgedtofocus ization andchronicunderfundingofour pipeline, andthecorporate-drivenprivat- standardized testing,theschool-to-prison by “communityorganizingeffortsagainst said, histimeasaprinciplwasmarked Continued from Page 1 Obviously, I’m hoping for Education The leadershiphasbeenverywel- I ranagainstthemachine,soI’m He spokewithCSANewsEditorChuck NOVEMBER 2020 Printed onFSCcertifiedpaper 40 RectorSt.,NY,NY10006 Local 1AFSA,AFL-CIO New YorkStateFederationofSchoolAdministrators Council ofSchoolSupervisors&Administrators,NYC Grass rootspeople knewexactlywho work Ihaddone intermsofadvocacy. quality relationships,andIknew the ships withinthisdistrict–ten yearsof pleasure ofbuildingmanyrelation - ning. Asaprincipal,Ihavehad the very confidentfromthe begin- my life,ithasplayedoutwell, soIwas Whenever Ihavehadthatfeelingin istic chanceatwinning? of theprocessthatyouhadareal- actually thinkatthebeginning of campaignmoney.Didyou port andatypicallylargebucket Congress, deepinstitutionalsup- chairman withalongcareerin You weretakingonacommittee to getintothose. ically gotofreshmenbutI’mlooking Ways andMeanscommitteesdon’ttyp- Technology. TheAppropriationsand would alsobeinterestedinScienceand those arebigneedsinourdistrict.I candidate tobecomethecongressmanelectforNY’sSixteenthCongressionalDistrict. n CSAmemberJamaalBowmanwithhisson.Mr.beattheConservativeParty I feltalmostcompelledtorun. home inYonkers, childsupport,car work outyet.I haveamortgageonour Washington andyourdistrict. It’s expensivetokeepliving in together, likecollegestudents. of freshmenenduprooming out foryoufinancially? A lot How doyouthinkthiswillwork a huge,hugeconfidencebooster. the UAW.ButCSA’sendorsementwas the NewYorkNursesAssociation,and bent. Ialsowonendorsementsfrom unions generallysidewiththeincum- early on.Itwasabigdealbecause and proudthatCSAendorsedusvery Was CSA’sbackinghelpful? myself!’ ‘I canknockonthatmanydoors looked atthosenumbersandthought, with 22,000totalvotesoutof33,000.I I am.Engelhadwonhislastprimary I don’tknowhowit’sgoingto CSA believedinmeandI’mblessed our profession. It’s timeforus toupliftourkidsand cles everydaywithlimitedresources. to students.Aseducatorswe do mira- office. Iwantthistobeaninspiration and districtofficepersonnel torunfor inspires otherprincipals,APs, teachers, I hopethatthisraceandour victory prepares usperfectlyforelectiveoffice. to havethisvision.Ourexperience not aboutme–Iwantotherprincipals cover? Ithastobeonthecover!It’s Any lastthoughts? one. responsive tomeettheneedsofevery- disagree. Butweneedtobeopenand and trauma.Reasonablepeoplecan food insecurity,housinginsecurity can’t thrivewhenthey’redealingwith We knowfirst-handthatourkids and worryaboutitsimpactonschools. disagree withconservativeideology better educatorandafather.I ing. Thatexperiencehasmademea introduce ustodifferentwaysofthink- to whattheybringthetable.They their needs,youhavetoberesponsive from diversebackgrounds.Tomeet working withandeducatingpeople point, they’reeducatorsand tive intheirvalues,that’sfine.Toyour Medicare forAll. don’t believeinpoliciessuchas tive, sociallyandfiscally, union whoarequiteconserva- but therearepeoplewithinthis You wonyourdistricthandily, the entirecountry. student loansnotjustformebut an obligationtorun.Iwantcancel a hugesacrifice. tive paymentcheckonthetable.Itwas deferred annuity,andIleftaretroac- tion]. Iprettymuchclearedoutmytax resign fromtheDOE[beforeelec- wife’s studentloansaswell.Ihadto payments, mystudentloansand Is thisstorygoingtobeonthe For thosewhoaremoreconserva- In spiteofallthat,Ifeltalmost and AdditionalMailingOffice Brooklyn, NY11201 US POSTAGEPAIDAT Periodicals