Conference: Securing A Win: Gray Fellows Movement Oct. 30, Live CSA Protects EA Transform Slow On In NYC Work, Salaries Schools School Safety 3 3 7 9

June 2021 Volume 56, Number 10 American Federation NEWS of School Administrators, COUNCIL OF SCHOOL SUPERVISORS AND ADMINISTRATORS AFL-CIO Local 1 Remote Option Family Leave Policy Ending, But Other One For All And Questions Remain All For Onesies ratitude continues to BY CHUCK WILBANKS has said all schools will be able to accom- pour in from members modate all students. CSA has already told Gwho’ve been able to On May 24, Mayor the mayor and the DOE that this isn’t the avail themselves of the family and Chancellor Meisha Ross Porter case, if current social distancing guide- leave benefit that CSA negoti- announced that there will be no remote lines remain in place. ated in 2020. learning option for the 2021-2022 school What would be the rules on school Anna Nelson, Assistant year, and, as a result, the COVID19- closures, were there to be another out- Principal, Bronx Latin School, based remote accommodations that were break? What of Covid testing of students said, “Luke (left, top) arrived granted to DOE employees this year will and staff? in March and I am really grate- officially sunset on June 30, 2021. Below is the letter Mr. Cannizzaro ful for the generous family The announcement came a week after sent to Mayor de Blasio. At press time, leave policy CSA negotiated. CSA President Mark Cannizzaro had sent CSA was continuing to press the DOE It’s allowed me to spend the the Mayor a letter urging him to provide to provide information on a range of time I needed with him. Here outstanding issues and to communicate he is in his onesie - he loves them to CSA and its members clearly, and CSA and their support for his ‘Lack of concrete answers promptly. mommy!” • • • There was no family leave to critical questions policy in place when Ernest Dear Mayor de Blasio: Logan was a school leader, leaves principals unable I once again write on behalf of New but he shares the grati- York City’s school leaders, as I did in tude that current members to plan for reopening.’ the spring and summer of last year, have for the new benefit. urging you to immediately provide our Here (left) the former CSA educators and public school families President enjoys life with his school communities with essential infor- with essential information about the grandson, Grant Logan. mation, including a formal announce- city’s plans for the 2021-2022 school Stefanie Laursen, Assistant ment about remote learning. CSA was year. The lack of concrete answers to Principal, PS 41, The Stephanie pleased the mayor responded to our the critical and timely questions we’ve A. Vierno School, said, “My union’s concerns. raised in private meetings in recent family and I welcomed our But as one critical question was months leaves principals unable to baby girl, Emilee Drew, in answered, many more loom large on the plan for a successful reopening of January, during what was horizon. Heading the list is clarity about school in the fall. It also leaves our probably the craziest year we social distancing guidelines – the mayor Continued on Page 3 have ever experienced. I would be remiss if I did not thank you. Of all of the gifts that we have received for our daugh- ter, the gift of time that we CSA to DOE: It’s Time were afforded through our new paid parental leave policy was the best. It allowed me to be with her during her first To Honor Your Word! few months, which was even more important to me during BY CHUCK WILBANKS The circumstances under which the a pandemic. I returned to city hasn’t performed its duty makes school this week and everyone The Department of Education has the situation all the more maddening. is doing well! The best added failed to send lump-sum payments to When COVID struck, the ensuing bonus was the happy mail we a large group of recent retirees, forcing lockdown cast a grim shadow over the received with this CSA onesie!” CSA to file a grievance demanding that city’s finances. CSA, cognizant of the Have any stories you’d the city live up to its commitments. challenges facing the city, agreed last like to tell about how family The payment, due in February, was the November to split what should have leave impacted your life? first of two remaining checks guaran- been one payment into two. The first Drop a line to Chuck@csa- teed under CSA’s agreement with the half would be paid in February 2021, nyc.org. city signed in 2014. Continued on Page 10

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PRESIDENT’S PAGE CITY Looking Back At A Letter To Mayor de Blasio: A Big Question Answered, Council of School Year Like No Other Supervisors & Administrators American Federation of School Administrators, AFL-CIO, Local 1 Against The Odds, We Accomplished Much. By Mark Cannizzaro Many Remain, Solutions 40 Rector St., NY, NY 10006 Phone: (212) 823-2020 t is too soon to know if the CSA’s new paid parental leave agree- Fax: (212) 962-6130 Pandemic of 2020-21 will trans- ment negotiated last year to give new www.csa-nyc.org Need To Be Relayed Soon form us to the extent the Great mothers and fathers 25 work days of President Depression of the early 1930s paid parental leave at 100 percent of Mark Cannizzaro changed our grandparents salary, while accruing annual and sick Continued from Page 1 school leaders in the difficult posi- Executive Vice President or parents. Some of them still save leave. In this year of COVID risk, new Henry Rubio I tion of being unable respond to string from bakery boxes and many parents have been writing us ecstati- First Vice President the concerns of anxious parents, Rosemarie Sinclair remain frugal beyond what it would cally about the benefit, and the more I further eroding their confidence in Treasurer seem their finances should dictate. I thought about it, the more I wanted to our school system. This indecision Christopher Ogno can’t yet say if the “elbow bump” will acknowledge their gratitude. So, we are and ineffective communication style Secretary permanently replace the handshake, bestowing on every CSA baby a new are unfortunately reminiscent of Steffani Fanizzi but I would wager that some of the school-leader onesie (see this month’s the approach the city took last year Vice Presidents which resulted in delays, inconsis- changes we have seen in education cover pictures). Don’t hesitate to send Sam Akel, Jose Garcia, Ramon Gonzalez tency, and frustration. Lois Lee, Katiana Louissaint will remain. Will we finally prioritize more snapshots of our new CSA family We have been meeting weekly Nancy Russo, Retiree Chapter smaller class sizes and less crowded members! with the DOE since early March. Executive Director Operations buildings? Maybe attention will not Some former members have been At each meeting, we have identi- Erminia Claudio drift from upgraded ventilation sys- propelled into top leadership posts. fied what information principals General Counsel need and the time frame required David Grandwetter tems in all schools and offices. Perhaps, broadband With the sudden resignation of Chancellor Richard access for every child – rich and poor – will be a Carranza, a well-known veteran AP and principal Meisha for successful implementation. We communicated that end-of-the-year given. From dreams spring realities. Porter, took over at Tweed. A respected former NYC Executive Director Field Services activities consume much of a school Sana Q. Nasser Memories will linger. Even when most of us are principal, Betty Rosa, was named State Commissioner of leader’s time and requested clear Field Directors vaccinated and our schools are fully open, we aren’t Education, and another former superstar principal, Lester and detailed information by the James Harrigan Reginald Landeau, Jr. likely to forget the dizzying start of the past school first week of May, which has come Dorothy Morris year. Following an abrupt school shut-down the and gone. Summer months are not Frank Patterson previous spring, you hoped for a sane start-up in Following abrupt shut-down in spring, nearly as productive as one might Mercedes Qualls think given that school leaders are Wanda Soto September. Instead, you got a crazy salad of hybrid without the assistance of most staff learning plans without enough staff to cover them, you hoped for a sane Sept. start-up. Assistant Field Directors and they themselves use the bulk Beshir Abdellatif, Eleanor Andrew, and looming threats of layoffs. Common sense plans Millie Boyce, Dominic Cipollone, Instead you got layoff threats and a of their annual leave time in July Brian De Vale, Peter Devlin, Nancy Esposito, from CSA and others were cast aside by City Hall. and August. During our meetings Roberto Flores, Ellie Greenberg, Premature school openings were announced, fol- crazy salad of hybrid learning plans. with the DOE, principals have been Ray Gregory, Joseph LaCascia, Kenneth Llinas, lowed by abrupt closings, and sudden re-openings. correctly identified as critical play- James McKeon, Monica McDonald, Beverly Pascal-Miller, Steven Resnick, Whipsawed, and watching our members forced to ers in rebuilding trust with families Sandra Solis, Yvonne Williams improvise on everything, CSA, by late September, Young, Jr., was named Chancellor of the New York State and welcoming them back to our schools. Our members look forward cast a unanimous vote of no confidence in the mayor Board of Regents. With the tumultuous national elec- to that challenge and, given min- Grievance Director and chancellor for their failure to lead tion in November, a firebrand Bronx principal, Jamaal Dale Kelly imal support, will exceed expecta- through a safe, successful reopening of schools. Bowman, won the race for Congress from New York’s tions. They cannot, however, con- Assistant Directors Carol Atkins, Robert Colon, In the midst of this, you implemented safety proto- Sixteenth District. He soon headed to Washington, a tinue to be hamstrung by those who Jermaine Garden cols, scheduled classes, and aligned staff towards crit- highly vocal champion of public education. should be supporting them. Director of Communications ical goals. Our role was to protect you against layoffs In the last months, a cascade of good fortune has Most notably, the city must Craig DiFolco and get the AP hiring freeze lifted, both of which we rained down and we can’t help saying, “It’s about promptly decide what remote learn- Director of Political Affairs did. We also were able to protect you against personal time.” These blessings erased some of the dread we Gabe Gallucci liability that might have come with opening schools felt in September. President Biden recently signed Assistant Director, Political Affairs Herman Merritt during a global pandemic. We had to convince the into law his $1.9 trillion American Rescue Act, which Assistant Director city to stand by school leaders, providing you repre- means widespread access to vaccines. It also means John Khani sentation and indemnification in the event of a claim that a new round of funding is on its way, to prevent Date Set for CSA’s IN-PERSON Conference Special Assistant to President naming you a defendant. We were proud to get this state and local cuts to preK-12 classrooms, particularly Gary Goldstein agreement early in the school year. those serving students from low-income households. CSA Conference Chair It has helped in CSA’s successful fight to hold school BY CHUCK WILBANKS Pierre Lehmuller • • • leaders harmless for register loss in 2021. It also has CSA Historian CSA President Mark Cannizzaro Manfred Korman We secured other agreements: brought about a triumphant finale to this union’s has announced that the 53rd CSA CSA Retiree Chapter • One provided evaluations and tenure frameworks longstanding struggle to bring all schools to 100 per- Conference will be an in-person event on Gayle Lockett, Chair that took into consideration the unique circum- cent of the Fair Student Funding formula! Some said Mark Brodsky, Director Saturday, Oct. 30, at the New York Hilton stances of this year. this would never happen. Midtown. • Another secured retroactive lump sum payments Years from now, when we look at pictures of girls “We anticipate that by October in per- CSA NEWS guaranteed by our 2014 contract. Claiming possible and boys wearing masks as they enter school buildings, son learning will be common and people Editor economic hardship, there was concern the mayor children in PJs stationed in front of Zoom screens with will feel comfortable gathering in a large Chuck Wilbanks setting once again,” Mr. Cannizzaro said. Design Consultant would attempt to withhold these, but we came to textbooks spread out around them, and little ones sit- “Of course, we will follow guidance from Michele Pacheco an agreement in which you would get half the lump ting separately from each other inside painted circles medical experts and the city as to capac- Production Assistant sum payment in February and the remaining half in in grassy parks, we will know exactly what year those ity restrictions and seating arrangements. Christine Altman November. photos were shot and remember how we felt. I will I think there will be a real interest in get- CSA News (004-532) is published • Finally, we forged an agreement that allowed remember you and what you accomplished against ting to see your colleagues face-to-face in monthly except July and August for $35 school-based members to vary on-site and remote the odds. I am proud to know you and I wish you a a social setting.” per year per member by CSA, 40 Rector Mr. Cannizzaro also announced that St., NY, NY 10006. Periodical postage supervision as long as there was appropriate supervi- healthy, well-deserved and restful summer. paid at , NY, and additional noted educator Dr. Bill Daggett will be the mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send sory coverage in your schools. conference keynote speaker. Dr. Daggett address changes to CSA News, 40 I can’t resist pointing out that in this otherwise very Mark Cannizzaro is president of the Council of School Rector St., NY, NY 10006. is the founder of the International Center tough year, our members began reaping the rewards of Supervisors and Administrators. for Leadership in Education (ICLE) and

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PRESIDENT’S PAGE NEW YORK CITY Protecting Looking Back At A Letter To Mayor de Blasio: EA Work, Salaries Year Like No Other A Big Question Answered, BY CHUCK WILBANKS CSA’s legal team succeeded in Against The Odds, We Accomplished Much. By Mark Cannizzaro Many Remain, Solutions righting a significant injustice, lock- ing in an agreement protecting union work practices and the role and sala- CSA’s new paid parental leave agree- ries of EAs. ment negotiated last year to give new Need To Be Relayed Soon The problem began in 2019 when mothers and fathers 25 work days of a group of employees who were earn- paid parental leave at 100 percent of ing teacher line salaries and were rep- salary, while accruing annual and sick Continued from Page 1 ing options they will offer families nity to provide our students with resented by the UFT, were nonethe- school leaders in the difficult posi- next year, if any, communicate programs and experiences they so leave. In this year of COVID risk, new less performing the work of education tion of being unable respond to those options clearly and quickly, desperately need after 18 months parents have been writing us ecstati- administrators after being promised the concerns of anxious parents, and ask families to make their deter- of instability, and our members EA positions. DOE, however, dragged cally about the benefit, and the more I further eroding their confidence in minations now. This decision simply are excited to utilize these vital its feet in officially staffing them as thought about it, the more I wanted to our school system. This indecision cannot wait any longer without risk- resources. Common sense deci- EAs which meant they were still being acknowledge their gratitude. So, we are and ineffective communication style ing a successful reopening, and the sions communicated to principals paid as teachers although being given bestowing on every CSA baby a new are unfortunately reminiscent of entire process should be completed EA job duties and functions. school-leader onesie (see this month’s the approach the city took last year before the start of June. CSA filed a grievance on behalf of which resulted in delays, inconsis- And, while it is our understand- cover pictures). Don’t hesitate to send four EAs. While they have now been tency, and frustration. ing that remote accommodations for more snapshots of our new CSA family Unprecedented State appointed as EAs, CSA demanded, We have been meeting weekly school staff will not be offered past among other things, that they be members! with the DOE since early March. June 30, 2021, we await a formal and Federal dollars compensated fairly for the work that Some former members have been At each meeting, we have identi- directive. School leaders simply need mean we have an they were doing. propelled into top leadership posts. fied what information principals to know which students and staff The four members in question are With the sudden resignation of Chancellor Richard need and the time frame required will be in the building in September opportunity to provide now being awarded back pay for the Carranza, a well-known veteran AP and principal Meisha for successful implementation. We and how remote instruction will time they spent performing the work communicated that end-of-the-year be handled for those who are not. Porter, took over at Tweed. A respected former NYC students programs of EAs while not being compensated activities consume much of a school Please communicate your decision principal, Betty Rosa, was named State Commissioner of fairly. Their service history for pur- leader’s time and requested clear regarding remote accommodations and experiences they poses of seniority, probation and ser- Education, and another former superstar principal, Lester and detailed information by the for employees to principals, school so desperately need vice credit is also being corrected to first week of May, which has come staff and families immediately. The show that they were working as EAs and gone. Summer months are not recently announced Chancellor’s after the pandemic. during the times in question. Following abrupt shut-down in spring, nearly as productive as one might five borough engagement tour “Getting the back pay for these think given that school leaders are may have been beneficial had it members who weren’t promoted to a you hoped for a sane Sept. start-up. without the assistance of most staff been planned to conclude in April. CSA line position even though they and they themselves use the bulk Please do not jeopardize a successful with sufficient time for thoughtful were doing CSA work was significant Instead you got layoff threats and a of their annual leave time in July reopening of school by withholding implementation will make all the in and of itself,” said CSA General crazy salad of hybrid learning plans. and August. During our meetings critical information until the conclu- difference for our children and help Counsel David Grandwetter. “It was with the DOE, principals have been sion of the Chancellor’s tour. restore faith in public education. also victory for our union to protect correctly identified as critical play- Finally, principals are anxiously We simply can’t let indecision and our bargaining unit’s work..” ers in rebuilding trust with families awaiting their school budgets so that micromanagement impede school Also significantly, the arbitrator Young, Jr., was named Chancellor of the New York State and welcoming them back to our they can begin posting positions leaders’ ability to do what they assigned to this case will also hear schools. Our members look forward and hiring new staff. Given the know is needed for their commu- Board of Regents. With the tumultuous national elec- similar disputes should they arise in to that challenge and, given min- city’s promising financial outlook, nities. And right now, their school tion in November, a firebrand Bronx principal, Jamaal the future. imal support, will exceed expecta- we request receipt of preliminary communities need answers. “That means we have a direct Bowman, won the race for Congress from New York’s tions. They cannot, however, con- budgets no later than the week of We look forward to discussing route to an expedited hearing in Sixteenth District. He soon headed to Washington, a tinue to be hamstrung by those who May 24. these urgent matters with you as the future, in the event that we highly vocal champion of public education. should be supporting them. Due to the unprecedented allo- soon as possible. come across instances of the DOE In the last months, a cascade of good fortune has Most notably, the city must cation of State and Federal dollars Sincerely, being slow in onboarding EAs while rained down and we can’t help saying, “It’s about promptly decide what remote learn- to education, we have an opportu- Mark F. Cannizzaro, President they are still on a UFT line,” Mr. time.” These blessings erased some of the dread we Grandwetter said. “We can go for an felt in September. President Biden recently signed immediate hearing before an arbitra- tor with jurisdiction over these spe- into law his $1.9 trillion American Rescue Act, which cific situations.” means widespread access to vaccines. It also means that a new round of funding is on its way, to prevent Date Set for CSA’s IN-PERSON Conference state and local cuts to preK-12 classrooms, particularly those serving students from low-income households. Teachers’ It has helped in CSA’s successful fight to hold school BY CHUCK WILBANKS the creator of the the conference. The conference is look- Rigor/Relevance ing for members to showcase innovative leaders harmless for register loss in 2021. It also has CSA President Mark Cannizzaro Framework. He practices, leadership strategies or capacity Retirement brought about a triumphant finale to this union’s has announced that the 53rd CSA is internationally building experiences with their col- System longstanding struggle to bring all schools to 100 per- Conference will be an in-person event on known for his leagues. The application to do a presenta- cent of the Fair Student Funding formula! Some said Saturday, Oct. 30, at the New York Hilton proven ability tion can be found by going to the confer- May 2021 this would never happen. Midtown. to lead school ence link on the CSA website home page. Unit Values Years from now, when we look at pictures of girls “We anticipate that by October in per- reform and help Members should plan for a workshop of Diversified Equity and boys wearing masks as they enter school buildings, son learning will be common and people PreK-12 educa- approximately 55 minutes. Proposals are tors effectively due by July 31. A committee will review Fund: 131.009 children in PJs stationed in front of Zoom screens with will feel comfortable gathering in a large setting once again,” Mr. Cannizzaro said. prepare students proposals and tell members no later Balanced Fund: 17.520 textbooks spread out around them, and little ones sit- “Of course, we will follow guidance from for the future. A than Aug. 15 if their proposal has been International Equity ting separately from each other inside painted circles medical experts and the city as to capac- Dr. Bill Daggett former teacher accepted. Fund: 13.069 in grassy parks, we will know exactly what year those ity restrictions and seating arrangements. and administra- The conference committee is also Sustainable Equity photos were shot and remember how we felt. I will I think there will be a real interest in get- tor, as well as director with the New York looking for a school band to perform Fund: 26.558 remember you and what you accomplished against ting to see your colleagues face-to-face in State Education Department, Dr. Daggett before the luncheon at the Hilton. If you U.S Equity Index the odds. I am proud to know you and I wish you a a social setting.” has a special commitment to individuals are interested in having your group per- Fund: 14.939 Mr. Cannizzaro also announced that with disabilities and has written numerous form at the conference, please send an healthy, well-deserved and restful summer. International Equity noted educator Dr. Bill Daggett will be the books, reports, and articles about learning email to Pierrre Lehmuller at pierre@csa- Index Fund: 13.049 conference keynote speaker. Dr. Daggett and education. nyc.org with details about your group. Mark Cannizzaro is president of the Council of School is the founder of the International Center CSA members are also encouraged to As in 2019, all registration will take www.trsnyc.org Supervisors and Administrators. for Leadership in Education (ICLE) and submit a proposal for a presentation at place online through the CSA website.

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EXECUTIVE NATION LEADERSHIP Moving Leaders Forward Memo From Headquarters Labor INSTITUTE Your Personnel File – Always Review, Don’t Forget! GEORGIA Mandated Vaccine Delta Airlines has created vaccine Upcoming: Exciting Lineup At policies recently. New employees must be vaccinated before joining the company. Current employees Summer Leadership Program are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated. Some 60% of Delta’s 75,000 employees have received very Summer the Executive Leadership Institute offers a summer institute featuring keynote speakers as well as at least one COVID19 shot. The professional development seminars for every CSA member. This year’s program will be on Zoom. Please turn to the Equal Opportunity Commission EELI website, elipd.org, for information on registration. Below are the seminars and other events. confirms it is legal to require employees and new hires to be vaccinated. (CNN Newsource) Dignity For All Students Act (DASA) How Can Schools Move Social Justice Forward? July 12, 8:30 am - 3:30 pm July 14, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm CALIFORNIA You Can This 6 hour workshop is open to all CSA members and This workshop will offer participants insights on how Info Picket meets the requirements of the harassment, bullying and dis- their school can respond to the social justice movement. Demand Nurses at the Enloe Medical Center, crimination prevention and intervention training required During the presentation participants will review historical who have been bargaining for a for certification/licensing under the Dignity for All Students milestones, look at systemic racism and its effect on educa- Removal new contract since last autumn, Act (DASA). tion, and explore proactive ways to reduce bias and create held an informational picket for The workshop addresses the patterns of harassment, equity in schools. Of Any patient safety. The nurses are bullying and discrimination, marginalizing of students as Participants will recognize and share their thoughts on proud of the level of care they well as other required topics. It delves into the strategies for implicit and explicit bias. The materials and best practices Letter Not provide patients and are picketing addressing problems of exclusion, bias and aggression in shared are designed to be used in the participants’ schools to to urge management to address schools. The day incorporates whole group, small group and enhance the learning environment so that it is productive for Resulting issues of safe staffing, infection con- individual activities. Upon completion of the 6 hour work- all children. trol protocols for safe patient care shop, participants meet the requirements of chapter 102 of In 3020a during the pandemic and hospital the 2012 Law. A Light In The Journey – Coping With Grief preparedness for natural disasters. Instructional material will be provided to all participants. July 14, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Charges (National Nurses United) The cost of the 6 hour workshop for CSA members is $50.00 This workshop explores how the development of grief payable via a PayPal Now button at https://elipd.org/dasa/ management/coping skills is critical if school communities DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA are to survive and excel. NAFTA Grievance Positive Mental Health By Reducing Stress Effective tools for school leaders to use when communi- July 13, 8:30 am - 11:30 am cating with constituencies grappling with loss and change are A petition to bring a labor com- This workshop explores the development of stress reduc- presented. Language and strategies necessary for communi- plaint against Mexico is being ing strategies to support and maintain positive mental cation with young children, teens and adults during a pan- filed by the AFL-CIO under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement health, critical to the survival and wellbeing of all. Stress demic and responses and support for those experiencing grief (USMCA). The petition states that management/reduction tools for school leaders to use are triggers are emphasized. AGREEMENT workers in an auto part plant, presented. south of the Texas border, were Impediments to positive mental health and techniques Strengthening And Supporting Executive denied independent union rep- for maintaining equilibrium and a state of wellbeing are Function In Our Student Body resentation and violated USMCA. presented. Individuals are encouraged to realize that their July 14, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Wages in Mexico are the lowest own coping abilities can overcome the normal stresses of life, Unleashing our students’ potential to prepare them for an CSA Corrects Unjust in the Organisation for Economic provide productive work environments and contribute to the ever-changing complex world of work and life pursuits is crit- Cooperation and Development. community. ical for their success and happiness. This workshop explores This is the first time the trade deal students’ executive functions, the essential cognitive pro- has been enforced. (PMN Business) Probation Rule For Seeing Educational Equity cesses that are critical for college and career readiness, such July 13, 8:30 am - 11:30 am as the ability to modulate emotions, perform complex tasks NEW JERSEY This workshop explores the basics of Equity in Education and pay attention more fully in class. It offers school lead- and develops protocols and ideas to promote and maintain ers teaching strategies, prompts, checklists and activities to Supervisors in Charge Forced Labor an inclusive pedagogical approach to teaching and learning. strengthen and support executive functions across the grade The Building and Wood Workers’ School leaders will learn about the hallmarks of inclusivity bands from early childhood to adolescence. It also provides BY DAVID International (BWI) is outraged by a and how their own abilities, knowledge and practice can lead an in-depth look at school policies and practices to empower GRANDWETTER recent New York Times article that to a more equitable environment. students to build strong resilience skills as they move into reported The Bochasanwasi Akshar Participants will discuss and create solutions for scenarios adulthood. In 2019, CSA rectified a Purushottam Swaminarayan dealing with bias and inequities in educational settings and long-standing inequity for Sanstha (BAPS) temple lured Indian will be able to overcome prejudice and provide productive Special Education: A Service Not A Placement assistant principals who workers to the US “to work under work environments which contribute positively to the com- July 15, 8:30 am - 11:30 am step up to be supervisors false pretenses.” Workers filed a lawsuit. They have reportedly been munity. Participants discuss the various components of special in charge for principals working grueling 13 hour days for education and the historical background. Throughout the who are out on approved $1 an hour. (BWI) Revisit, Renew And Reinforce Learning workshop participants will engage in activities to gain a bet- leave or otherwise absent In A Trauma-Informed School ter understanding of the requirements and processes. They for an extended period July 13, 8:30 am - 11:30 am will review MTSS services and a pre-referral form. Participants of time, by coming to an ALABAMA Whatever teaching/learning design is implemented ini- will analyze an IEP, discuss its components, and decide how agreement to pay those Shifting Unions tially or later, any trauma experienced by the teacher and/ it can be implemented. APs at the principal rate. or learner is a serious consideration, impacting maximum Prior to CSA forging this agreement An increasing number of profes- sionals in various sectors have been performance. This workshop supports administrators in their What Does Equity Mean For Newcomers Mls/Ells on behalf of our many APs, DOE successfully winning unionization practices to create a trauma-informed approach to learning July 15, 8:30 am - 11:30 am reaped the benefit of them working – from media outlets, nonprofits, which helps students, staff and parents feel safe and sup- This workshop focuses on supporting supervisors in as supervisors in charge without com- school districts and universities, to ported. enhancing equitable programs for our Multilingual learners/ pensating them accordingly. hospitals. Meanwhile, blue-collar ELLs. Participants explore the characteristics of newcomers, However, since the signing of that and low-paid service sector work- Summer Institute Keynote Speaker: address their various needs and discuss strategies to ensure agreement, CSA discovered another ers are finding it more difficult, Dr. Gholdy Muhammad equity in our school educational programs. inequity with respect to DOE’s such as with the recent defeat of July 14, 8:30 am - 9:30 am implementation. Assistant principals Amazon warehouse workers in Dr. Gholnecsar (Gholdy) Muhammad will be the keynote School Leaders Leading The Charge To working as supervisors in charge who Alabama. Reportedly, the PRO Act, speaker at ELIs Summer Institute. Ms. Muhammad is an Embrace More Frequent Change had yet to complete their probation- pending in the Senate, could begin Associate Professor of Language and Literacy at Georgia State July 15, 8:30 am - 11:30 am ary periods as APs were having their to level the playing field by rewrit- University. She studies Black historical excellence within This workshop will support the understanding that probationary periods frozen by DOE ing labor law and allowing workers educational communities with goals of reframing curriculum change is happening faster than ever. School leaders learn to Human Resources for the time period who want to join a union to do so. and instruction today. She works with school communities demonstrate adaptability and resilience in themselves and in they stepped up to oversee a school. (The American Prospect) in best practices in culturally responsive instruction. She those they lead. “That practice was illogical and — Compiled by is the author of the best-selling book, Cultivating Genius: Participants will explore how to communicate a posi- punitive to the very people DOE Christine Altman An Equity Model for Culturally and Historically Responsive tive vision of change and identify behaviors of leaders who thought were worthy enough to place Literacy. embrace change. in charge of a school in the absence

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Dale Memo From Headquarters Kelly Your Personnel File – Always Review, Don’t Forget!

oo often, I have heard stories of may not include your signature. These kinds ted to writing within 90 calendar days can Upcoming: Exciting Lineup At our members “finding out” about of documents can include your resume, not be added to the personnel file. Any letter an unpleasant document that is state certification documentation, city licen- outside this window should immediately be included in their personnel files. sure, time and attendance documents, doc- brought to the attention of the union so that a This should never be the case. You tor’s notes, and per-session sheets. grievance can be filed on your behalf. Summer Leadership Program Tshould be aware of every piece of paper that Conversely, written correspondence you Obviously, you may not agree with the is there. receive that is destined for your personnel contents of a disciplinary letter. Our contract very Summer the Executive Leadership Institute offers a summer institute featuring keynote speakers as well as Over the course of a career, your person- file should include your signature. In most provides you the right to craft a rebuttal that professional development seminars for every CSA member. This year’s program will be on Zoom. Please turn to the nel file will contain voluminous amounts instances, your signature will be preceded will refute any statements you believe are inac- ELI website, elipd.org, for information on registration. Below are the seminars and other events. of paperwork. For that reason, you should by the statement, “I have received a copy curate or misrepresent the facts. All rebuttal E exercise one of your seldomly used con- of this document and understand that a letters must be attached to the original letter tractual rights and review your official copy will be placed in my official personnel and included in your personnel file. While personnel file. As we approach the end of file.” Some examples are annual evalua- there is no time frame for providing a rebuttal, How Can Schools Move Social Justice Forward? the school year, consider requesting such a tion reports, mid-year performance review I suggest writing it quickly, while the incident July 14, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm You Can review either before the close of your work documents, letters of commendations, is still clear in your memory. This workshop will offer participants insights on how year or upon the opening of the new year. and disciplinary letters. In some instances, You can demand the removal of any disci- their school can respond to the social justice movement. Demand Be aware that you have contractually documents such as concluding investiga- plinary letter in your file that did not result in During the presentation participants will review historical protected rights as you undertake this tive reports (OSI, OEO, or SCI) may also be disciplinary charges (3020a) and is more than milestones, look at systemic racism and its effect on educa- Removal review process. First and foremost is your included. three years old. Simply place a post-it or some tion, and explore proactive ways to reduce bias and create right to examine your file after you make an marker on the document and then send an equity in schools. Of Any appropriate request. When you make such email to your supervisor asking that the out- Participants will recognize and share their thoughts on a request, your supervisor should arrange o derogatory material should reside in dated material be removed. Don’t ever remove implicit and explicit bias. The materials and best practices Letter Not for you to perform the review within a rea- your personnel file if you weren’t given a document on your own. Upon request, your shared are designed to be used in the participants’ schools to sonable time frame. Usually, a supervisor the opportunity to read and sign it. supervisor should either destroy the document enhance the learning environment so that it is productive for Resulting N will assign a secretary or other clerical staff Remember: Signing a document does NOT or provide it to you for disposal. A follow up all children. In 3020a member to observe the member as the file mean that you agree with the content, only review can confirm that it has been removed. review is in process. Sometimes they elect to that you received and had the opportunity to Finally, remember that you are entitled to a A Light In The Journey – Coping With Grief oversee the process themselves. You should review it. As long as you had that opportunity, copy of any document that is included in your July 14, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Charges never access your own personnel file with- refusing to sign a document will not prevent it file. This workshop explores how the development of grief out prior approval. from being included in your file. If you have any question about the file-re- management/coping skills is critical if school communities Here are some facts to be aware of when Letters to file can not be grieved unless a view process, do not hesitate to speak with are to survive and excel. you review your file: contractual violation occurs in the issuance of your field representatives or contact me at Effective tools for school leaders to use when communi- All documentation which you have sub- the letter. Possibly the most frequent contract [email protected]. cating with constituencies grappling with loss and change are mitted for inclusion in your personnel file violation involves timeliness: Per our collective presented. Language and strategies necessary for communi- for the purposes of recordkeeping may or bargaining agreement, incidents not commit- Dale Kelly is Grievance Director at CSA. cation with young children, teens and adults during a pan- demic and responses and support for those experiencing grief triggers are emphasized. AGREEMENT Strengthening And Supporting Executive Emerald Society Beckons Function In Our Student Body July 14, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm BY DONNA MCGUIRE the Great Irish Famine in all NYC Schools, Unleashing our students’ potential to prepare them for an CSA Corrects Unjust and including it in the NYS Social Studies ever-changing complex world of work and life pursuits is crit- ithin the umbrella of CSA, there are Curriculum. The organization connects our ical for their success and happiness. This workshop explores many ways to connect, find inspi- membership with one another and with students’ executive functions, the essential cognitive pro- Probation Rule For ration and learn, associations and those of Irish descent or those who have a cesses that are critical for college and career readiness, such W organizations specific to your title, some that tangible connection or interest in Ireland and as the ability to modulate emotions, perform complex tasks center around your subject area, others that wish to establish a connection. and pay attention more fully in class. It offers school lead- pertain to your grade band, and still others There are 35 Emerald Societies around the ers teaching strategies, prompts, checklists and activities to Supervisors in Charge that are based on cultural/ethnic affinity. country, most in the NY Metro area. Many strengthen and support executive functions across the grade The NYCDOE Emerald Society is a cul- civil servants join to keeping their culture bands from early childhood to adolescence. It also provides BY DAVID of the principal,” said tural organization of Irish-American educa- alive, within the kinship of union brothers an in-depth look at school policies and practices to empower GRANDWETTER CSA President Mark tors connected through education for over and sisters. Like everywhere else, we use tech- students to build strong resilience skills as they move into Cannizzaro. “When fifty years, one of the oldest educational orga- nology and creativity to remain connected, adulthood. In 2019, CSA rectified a we learned that Human nizations NYC. We honor and celebrate the and the Emerald Society hosts many virtual long-standing inequity for Resources was doing this, traditions of Irish-American culture, the aca- events. Check out our website for more infor- Special Education: A Service Not A Placement assistant principals who we immediately raised it demic achievements of our scholarship recip- mation: www.emeraldsocietynycdoe.com. July 15, 8:30 am - 11:30 am step up to be supervisors to the chancellor’s level.” ients, and the dedication and leadership of Participants discuss the various components of special in charge for principals To her credit, Chan- our honorees. Our mission is to preserve Irish Donna McGuire is President of the NYC DOE education and the historical background. Throughout the who are out on approved cellor Meisha Porter rec- culture and promote contributions by Irish Emerald Society and the CSA Irish Caucus. workshop participants will engage in activities to gain a bet- leave or otherwise absent ognized the wrongfulness people to the USA and worldwide, particu- ter understanding of the requirements and processes. They for an extended period of freezing an assistant larly in education. The Emerald Society was News about your professional organization? will review MTSS services and a pre-referral form. Participants of time, by coming to an principal’s probationary largely responsible for encouraging teaching Contact [email protected]. will analyze an IEP, discuss its components, and decide how agreement to pay those David Grandwetter period when tabbed to be it can be implemented. APs at the principal rate. supervisor in charge, and Prior to CSA forging this agreement she has agreed to stop that practice. What Does Equity Mean For Newcomers Mls/Ells on behalf of our many APs, DOE Now, any probationary assistant prin- July 15, 8:30 am - 11:30 am reaped the benefit of them working cipals who step up as supervisor in This workshop focuses on supporting supervisors in as supervisors in charge without com- charge will continue to accrue time Calling All Marathoners enhancing equitable programs for our Multilingual learners/ pensating them accordingly. toward their completion of proba- ELLs. Participants explore the characteristics of newcomers, However, since the signing of that tion. address their various needs and discuss strategies to ensure agreement, CSA discovered another This is a just and common sense he NYC marathon is on for Nov. 7! Our team, CSA Runs As 1, is associated with the equity in our school educational programs. inequity with respect to DOE’s outcome. There’s no reason to penal- NYRR. Many great perks come with that, including two entries to the race. You implementation. Assistant principals ize people in this position, especially Tmust be a recognized member of the CSARA1 Team, and when you register with School Leaders Leading The Charge To working as supervisors in charge who given the fact that DOE thinks highly the NYRR organization, you must enter our team’s name. Runners who deferred to this Embrace More Frequent Change had yet to complete their probation- enough of them that they were year may register between June 8 and June 15 and other runners may register after June July 15, 8:30 am - 11:30 am ary periods as APs were having their placed in the role in the first place. 15. If you would like to know more about this competitive part of our team, please let This workshop will support the understanding that probationary periods frozen by DOE If any supervisor in charge has me know. Many of our members have already registered for some of the races coming change is happening faster than ever. School leaders learn to Human Resources for the time period questions about how this agreement up. Last night, as the club manager, I participated in the NYRR meeting. Many of the demonstrate adaptability and resilience in themselves and in they stepped up to oversee a school. impacts them, please contact your questions you may have are in the following link. https://www.nyrr.org/tcsnycmarathon/ those they lead. “That practice was illogical and field director. Pages/2021-FAQs. Don’t forget: We meet for a run every Sunday at 8:30 am at Columbus Participants will explore how to communicate a posi- punitive to the very people DOE Circle and 59th St., at the entrance to Central Park. tive vision of change and identify behaviors of leaders who thought were worthy enough to place David Grandwetter is CSA’s general – MaryBelle Ferreira embrace change. in charge of a school in the absence counsel.

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PRINCIPAL FELLOWSHIP NATION Research Studies Education Breaking News: Report Excellence, Transformation NEW YORK Civics Education Reveals Good Principals A “seal of civic readiness” could And Someone To Lean On replace one of five required Regents exams if state education officials pass a proposal recom- Make Schools Better mended by a state task force in an effort to boost civic education and readiness of students. If approved, BY CHUCK WILBANKS tile of effectiveness yields an increase “It is difficult to envision an districts would not be required to in student learning in reading and investment in K-12 education with a offer it. Those that wish to would Now it’s official. A new report math of about three months, nearly higher ceiling on its potential return have to apply to the state and based on a synthesis of 20 years as much as the four months of than improving school leadership,” show how they would implement of research from 219 high-quality increased learning generated by a The report concluded that effec- it, including tracking students, research studies about school lead- teacher at the 75th percentile, but tive principals carry out four key creating civics-related courses and ership, found that school princi- across an entire school. The princi- behaviors—engaging in “high-lever- service opportunities. Fifty schools pals make a significant difference pal’s effects on students are largely age” instructional activities, such will pilot the program next year in a school’s success. The recent indirect, coming in good measure as teacher evaluation and feedback; and additional schools could begin study was conducted by Vanderbilt through teachers, with the principal establishing a productive climate; offering the option in the 2022-23 influencing factors including teacher building collaboration and profes- year. (Chalkbeat) hiring and development as well as sional learning communities; and the conditions for sound learning. managing personnel and resources NEW MEXICO ‘A principal in the • Evidence links four domains of strategically. Ombud Act 75th percentile of principal behaviors to positive out- “These behaviors rest on three The Governor signed a bill that comes for students and schools—and skills—people skills, organizational will create an ombudsman office effectiveness yields an they include but go beyond engage- skills, and instructional skills—sug- to help public school students increase in student ment with instruction. gesting that effective principals and families navigate the special • The principalship needs contin- employ a broader toolkit of strategies education system. The bill was learning in reading ued reorientation toward educational than often assumed,” the authors passed unanimously. It is hoped it equity. said. will ensure that special education and math of about • Given the strength and scope of The report emphasizes the neces- dollars more effectively reach the the impact of an effective principal, sity of principals embedding equity n The Gray Fellowship cohort of 2021: Meaningful change comes from within. classrooms, teachers and students three months across investing in successful strategies is into these practices, as public schools in need of services. The vision is an entire school.’ likely to have a very large payoff. serve growing numbers of students to have one ombudsman assigned “Our results on the importance of of color, students from low-income BY CHUCK WILBANKS to every school district, but there principals’ effects suggest the need households, English learners, and are plans to expand to have one for renewed attention to strategies students with disabilities. evin Froner, principal of at every school. Hiring is already University in conjunction with the for cultivating, selecting, preparing, The authors of the report are Manhattan Hunter Science underway. (KOB-TV) Wallace Foundation. You can be for- and supporting a high-quality prin- Jason Grissom, professor of lead- High School, and Noah given for thinking that such lessons cipal workforce,” the authors said. ership, policy, and organizations Angeles, principal of York VIRGINIA are painfully obvious! But don’t fault “The payoffs to successful strategies at Vanderbilt; Anna J. Egalite at Early College Academy in Black History academics for finding proof of phe- appear very large for student learn- North Carolina State University KQueens, took remarkably different nomena we know to be true. ing and for other important out- and Constance A. Lindsay at the paths before settling into their calling. Students participated in the Among the conclusions of the report: comes, such as student attendance University of North Carolina at Friends since their early childhoods in second annual Black History •A principal in the 75th percen- and teacher turnover. Chapel Hill. , Dr. Froner went to work on Month Historical Marker Contest, to raise awareness of Wall Street, while Dr. Angeles served as the contributions of African- a soldier in the Army during Operation Americans to Virginia his- Iraqi Freedom. The two men stayed in tory. The Governor’s office touch all their lives, and as they pur- announced that five of the 100 sued their careers as educators, they submissions were selected Dr. Douglas came to lean on each other more and for installation. It is hoped The Welfare Fund V. Hathaway more, talking every morning by phone that the program will elevate on their way to work. the need to integrate Black “We would start our conversations history into the history taught with, ‘How are you going to change the in classrooms. As part of its Updating Info And Prescription Coverage world today?’,” Dr. Angeles said. “We ONE Virginia plan, schools are would talk not only about our schools, being provided resources to uestion: I am an Assistant Principal fits rider. I read in theCSA News that I should but the outside stuff, like our health “guide conversation and pro- in Queens. My husband’s diabetic have received a check reimbursing me for a and our families. We were helping each mote equity by telling a fuller medication was not approved portion of my rider costs. I didn’t get a check. other by talking about who we are, and more complete version of by Optum either for the phar- Can you tell me why? things that were getting in the way, Virginia’s history.” (WTKR) Qmacy or for mail order. The medication ANSWER: Computers are wonderful, but sharing feelings and situations that we is Glyburide. When I spoke to the Optum they are only as good as the information that faced. If I’m having issues with my wife MICHIGAN pharmacist, I asked if there was another med- is entered (and this comes from the person and kids, and then I have to show up Job Training ication he can take in its place and I was told who developed the claims processing systems and lead a school –you need someone that none were approved. We have been hav- for the Fund). We asked the City to verify to talk to. That helped us become bet- Western Wayne Skill Center ing trouble with my husband’s prescription that you were coded as being a CSA member, ter principals.” in Garfield Community School coverage for a while now. Can you please and they reported that you were not coded as Both of their schools are highly in Detroit is helping students, assist me with this matter? having retired from any union. We demon- effective, and they realized that the aged 18-26, to learn job skills. ANSWER: Certainly. Diabetic medica- strated to them that you were, in fact, a CSA ideas and support they shared with With on-the-job training on tions (and testing supplies) are provided by retiree, and they have corrected your coding. hold during the pandemic, one each other had played a huge role in your basic health plan (in your case, GHI- We have sent out one additional batch of that success. They began to envision a teacher’s love for do-it-yourself CBP) under yet another New York State checks to about 30 of your colleagues who projects turned into teaching Ensuring formal program, a space where princi- mandate. In order to get diabetic medications were in the same situation, and you should furniture refinishing to students. pals could talk about personal and pro- and testing supplies, go to any pharmacy have received your check by now. The teacher asked for old fur- Members fessional challenges, form lasting rela- and show your GHI card. The benefits are niture through Facebook and tionships with one another, and at the subsequently launched Skill-ful Are In The provided through Express Scripts group G3A, The staff of the Welfare Fund and I wish you all same time, create a year-long project Designs. To date, students have and you will only have to pay a small co-pay- a happy, healthy (and for our active members, to transform their schools. Three years refinished desks, dressers, coffee System ment. relaxing) summer. We will be here all summer ago, they began discussing with Hunter and end tables, learning sanding, Properly • • • ready and able to answer any questions you may College School of Education the idea of painting, and waxing skills in the have. creating a program to do just that. process. (WXYZ) uestion: I am a Medicare-eligible The result, the Gray Fellowship Department of Education retiree. I Dr. Douglas V. Hathaway is CSA Welfare Fund — Compiled by for Principal Excellence, is a one-year Christine Altman am in the GHI Senior Care health Administrator. You can email him at dhatha- program through Hunter College. The Qplan, and pay for the optional bene- [email protected]. second cohort graduated in May. This

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PRINCIPAL FELLOWSHIP Breaking News: Report Excellence, Transformation Reveals Good Principals And Someone To Lean On cation,” she continued. “Moving to Make Schools Better principal, it’s so easy to lose that. I had inherited school data that was below “It is difficult to envision an the mark. Students and staff didn’t investment in K-12 education with a feel as though they belonged. Every higher ceiling on its potential return stakeholder must feel they belong. We than improving school leadership,” surveyed our community throughout The report concluded that effec- the year: At the beginning there was tive principals carry out four key a 30 percent sense of belonging. Now behaviors—engaging in “high-lever- it’s over 70 percent. In the midst of a age” instructional activities, such pandemic, there have been stronger as teacher evaluation and feedback; connections made this year than ever establishing a productive climate; before. That grew out of this program building collaboration and profes- 100 percent. I have been able to take sional learning communities; and what I learned and put many things managing personnel and resources in motion at the school that are really strategically. having an impact.” “These behaviors rest on three Roshone Ault-Lee, founding prin- skills—people skills, organizational cipal of the South Bronx Academy for skills, and instructional skills—sug- Applied Media/MS 296, already had a gesting that effective principals concrete idea about what she wanted employ a broader toolkit of strategies to achieve at her school: A shift, as than often assumed,” the authors much as is possible in today’s climate, said. away from obsessive focus on test The report emphasizes the neces- scores and other numerical evaluations, to more of an emphasis on projects, sity of principals embedding equity n The Gray Fellowship cohort of 2021: Meaningful change comes from within. into these practices, as public schools leading to a broader mastery of subjects serve growing numbers of students and skills. of color, students from low-income BY CHUCK WILBANKS year, despite the pandemic, 19 princi- “I was looking for a transformative “Pre Covid, there was a lot of atten- households, English learners, and pals graduated. Last year there were 20. experience,” said Jeneca Parker, prin- tion to schools being held account- students with disabilities. evin Froner, principal of The program’s third cohort begins its cipal of PS 180 in Manhattan and a able, with a huge focus on numbers. The authors of the report are Manhattan Hunter Science work in July. member of this year’s cohort. “There It would reduce children to a ‘level Jason Grissom, professor of lead- High School, and Noah “We are getting them out of the have been many fellowships that I’ve one,’ ‘level two,’ and so forth. We used ership, policy, and organizations Angeles, principal of York monkey suits they are in,” said Dr. been a part of, but, by far, this is the to have a huge emphasis on the test at Vanderbilt; Anna J. Egalite at Early College Academy in Angeles, the day after this year’s grad- one that will stand out above all oth- when testing time would come around. North Carolina State University KQueens, took remarkably different uation. “The bonds that have formed ers. I’ve never felt such freedom and Children would think they had to get and Constance A. Lindsay at the paths before settling into their calling. in these two cohorts are unbreakable. support to do things to move the nee- a particular score. When I look back on University of North Carolina at Friends since their early childhoods in This group was particularly special dle. It’s run by New York City princi- that, I think it was the wrong approach Chapel Hill. Queens, Dr. Froner went to work on -- during a pandemic, if you didn’t do pals for New York City principals, and -- all the pressure for a score, rather Wall Street, while Dr. Angeles served as anything but focus on your school, that alone is a game changer.” than the mastery. We aren’t abandon- ing the standards, but we’re using them a soldier in the Army during Operation that would have been OK. It wasn’t the • • • Iraqi Freedom. The two men stayed in time to take on something new. But as a guide to what we need to teach touch all their lives, and as they pur- these principals did, and they focused s. Parker had been an AP in them. We need to get to the root cause sued their careers as educators, they on launching new projects. Our main District 75 for five years, and of why they’re not performing at the came to lean on each other more and thought was, ‘If you want to transform has now been principal of her level they need to. We’re not reducing M children to a number.” The Welfare Fund more, talking every morning by phone your school, you have to transform school for four years. “I gained insight on their way to work. yourself.’” about how individuals perceive me, • • • “We would start our conversations With a focus on a principal’s and more awareness about my leader- with, ‘How are you going to change the internal growth prompting profound ship style -- from APs, parents, family, ne example she has instituted: Updating Info And Prescription Coverage world today?’,” Dr. Angeles said. “We change in their school, the course and friends,” she said. “I have never Rather than having students would talk not only about our schools, in part utilizes teachings of Otto had that type of data before. Reading Owith the highest GPAs speak fits rider. I read in theCSA News that I should but the outside stuff, like our health Scharmer, an MIT Sloan School of narrative feedback, I learned about as valedictorian and salutatorian, her have received a check reimbursing me for a and our families. We were helping each Management professor, who advocates areas that are my strengths and things school now taps kids who are excelling portion of my rider costs. I didn’t get a check. other by talking about who we are, what he calls “awareness-based systems people saw in me that I didn’t know in other areas, such as in student gov- Can you tell me why? things that were getting in the way, change.” Each group kicks off its year about, blank spots that I didn’t realize ernment. ANSWER: Computers are wonderful, but sharing feelings and situations that we with an outdoor experience upstate, needed work. With such clearly defined goals for they are only as good as the information that faced. If I’m having issues with my wife complete with rope courses and walks “One fact that came out was that I how she wanted her school to evolve, is entered (and this comes from the person and kids, and then I have to show up in the woods. needed more one-on-one communi- how did the Gray Fellowship help her? who developed the claims processing systems and lead a school –you need someone “It helped me visualize specific for the Fund). We asked the City to verify to talk to. That helped us become bet- moves, and consider my blind spots,” that you were coded as being a CSA member, ter principals.” she said. “Various exercises helped and they reported that you were not coded as Both of their schools are highly me get creative. I tell people it helped having retired from any union. We demon- effective, and they realized that the me come up to the balcony, and look strated to them that you were, in fact, a CSA ideas and support they shared with down on the dance floor. What’s really retiree, and they have corrected your coding. each other had played a huge role in going on here? Who are the play- We have sent out one additional batch of that success. They began to envision a ers and how are we going to do this checks to about 30 of your colleagues who formal program, a space where princi- together?” were in the same situation, and you should pals could talk about personal and pro- Another cohort member, Lorrie have received your check by now. fessional challenges, form lasting rela- Brown, principal of Port Richmond tionships with one another, and at the School for Visionary Learning, noted The staff of the Welfare Fund and I wish you all same time, create a year-long project that after one assignment -- a mindful a happy, healthy (and for our active members, to transform their schools. Three years walk in nature -- the group chose as its relaxing) summer. We will be here all summer ago, they began discussing with Hunter mascot the cardinal. ready and able to answer any questions you may College School of Education the idea of “The cardinal, for many people, is a have. creating a program to do just that. spiritual symbol, representing rebirth, The result, the Gray Fellowship and transformation in general,” she Dr. Douglas V. Hathaway is CSA Welfare Fund for Principal Excellence, is a one-year said. “That brought us together. It Administrator. You can email him at dhatha- program through Hunter College. The reminds us that we aren’t alone, that we are here together.” [email protected]. second cohort graduated in May. This Dr. Kevin Froner Dr. Noah Angeles

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High School, passed away after a valiant, this program students gained experience In Memoriam two-year battle with cancer. Mrs. Pollari both in both sailing and collecting live spec- was born Lisa Caruana in . She imens for further studies in the science lab- graduated from Tottenville High School oratory. Joan retired from her position at Nonfiction And Poetry On ALDO ARCOMANO, 91, died March 10. He lived in Queens. Mr. Arcomano grew up on , before going on to earn Beach Channel in 2001. In retirement, she in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn and graduated a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the worked for superintendents and principals from New Utrecht High School. He earned , where she also as a consultant in curriculum and instruc- earned her administrative certification, said Education, Labor And Love a bachelor’s degree in art in 1951 from tion. She was co-author, with her husband her husband, Francesco (Angelo) Pollari. Carl Raab, of a trade book entitled “The Brooklyn College where he won awards and teven Askinazi has written studied with artists including Mark Rothko, The couple married in 1997. The family has Student Biologist Explores Genetics.“ She a memoir of his 21 years Ad Reinhardt, Burgoyne Diller and Robert lived in the Tottenville community of Staten and her husband were founding members as principal of Manhattan Jay Wolf. He completed a master’s degree Island since 2002, said her husband, a for- of the Science Council of New York City in art and art education in 1953. On a trip mer Wall Street employee who now owns (SCONYC), an organization that sponsors Center For Science and to Italy to learn the art of the Renaissance, his own pain management business.After professional development activities and Mathematics in East Harlem, he traveled to Caltanissetta, Sicily where he a stint working with local politicians, Mrs. conferences for science teachers. Memorial Swhere he first worked as a teacher and met his future wife, Giuseppa. She died in Pollari began her career as a teacher at New donations can be made to Weill Cornell then an AP. Digging Deep, Aiming High 1958, leaving her husband with three very Dorp High School on Staten Island, before Medical College, specifying the Joan Raab - An Educator’s Lifelong Quest to Put young children. He and his children moved transferring to Tottenville High. She worked Brain Cancer Research Fund in your note, Kids First recounts how, in his words, back into Mr. Arcomano’s family home. in the classroom there for two or three years and sent to: Christophe Larroque, Weill he sought to reject mediocrity and Mr. Arcomano worked as a classroom art before being appointed assistant principal Cornell Medicine, Office of External Affairs, encourage all students to succeed. teacher for more than 30 years. He closed Larry D. Gabbard of social studies at Port Richmond High 1300 York Avenue, Box 314, New York, NY “We recognized early on that the out his career as the last art supervisor in School, a position she held for more than 10065. bureaucracy in the largest school system the New York City school system. After his 20 years. She worked for three principals MIRIAM RIVAS, 64, principal of in the nation would prevent us from three children were grown, Mr. Arcomano with a bachelor’s degree in English and at the school— Robert Graham, Timothy Bronx Health Sciences High School in the being able to provide the necessary tools met and married Dora Arcomano. He is sur- telecommunications. After a few years in Gannon and Andrew Greenfield. “Lisa was Baychester neighborhood of , died to be truly successful,” he said. vived by Mrs. Arcomano and his three chil- Chicago, Mr. Gabbard moved to New York a South Shore girl with a North Shore heart. May 8. According to Maudi Rodriguez, assis- His solution incorporated ele- She was a Raider through and through,” said dren. “It is a tribute to Aldo’s love and caring City where he worked in the corporate sec- tant principal of the school, the cause was ments familiar to successful school Mr. Greenfield, who described her as “one that the children became Pina Arcomano tor before returning to school in search of a heart disease. Ms. Rivas had been principal leaders today: He sought out pub- of my right-hand people.” “Every decision Britton, Ed.D.; Anthony Arcomano, D.D.S., new career. Mr. Gabbard was accepted into of the school since she and Ms. Rodriguez lic and private partnerships, while Lisa made as a leader was about kids. What and Michael Arcomano, M.D.,” reads an obit- the New York Teaching Fellows program opened it in 2004. It was the only “small” assembling a team of “trailblazers” uary prepared by his family. “We could not is best for the kids? How will this impact school, with a student body of just 329 and earned a master’s degree in educa- who worked closely with students have asked for a more loving and extraor- tion at Lehman College before starting to and parents. dinary husband, father, grandfather, and work for the DOE teaching sixth grade. He “We are living in a very great-grandfather.” went on to become an assistant principal explosive time when funding RUTH BALLABON, 80, a resident of and earned a second master’s degree from for public education, deseg- Fresh Meadows in Queens, NY, died March Columbia University Teacher’s College. regation, the privatization 15. Mrs. Ballabon was born Ruth Distenfeld He was also a 2017 Cahn Fellow. Mather, a in Lviv, Poland, in March, 1940. Her place Career a CTE school for specialized build- of schools, the role of law of birth is now part of Ukraine. After a ing arts and landscape trades, focused on enforcement, and controver- harrowing early childhood in which she high-quality craftsmanship and historic sies regarding diversity, equity was hidden by her biological parents, preservation. Mr. Gabbard and his husband and inclusion have become then separated from her adoptive par- Tony Bellomy married in 2012. They moved politicized,” Mr. Askinazi said. ents before being reunited with them at to Connecticut, where Mr. Gabbard became “My hope is this book will the age of 4-1/2, Mrs. Ballabon and her involved in community theatre. In recent provide you with an exam- adoptive mother (her aunt) and father years, he acted in, sang in, and directed ination of the ways in which made their way to the United States in many productions at places like Curtain our team dealt with these 1947, settling in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Call in Stamford, CT; Town Players of New problems, and that our best Mrs. Ballabon graduated from The Ramaz Canaan, CT; Antrim Playhouse in Suffern, School in Manhattan. She earned a bach- NY, and Elmwood Playhouse in Nyack, NY, elor’s degree from Queens College and a where he also served on the company’s Lisa Pollari Miriam Rivas master’s degree in educational psychology, board of directors. “Larry had a unique abil- also from Queens College. Mrs. Ballabon met ity to inspire the people around him to be her husband, Maurice Ballabon, in 1959 at a the best they could be in a given moment, and improve the kids?” At the time of her From 40 Rector Street temple in Forest Hills, Queens, and married and then to push them to be even better in this year, opened in Truman High School. in 1960. She began her career as a special the next moment,” said Mr. Bellomy. “Never death, she was still teaching a class every Elizabeth Martinez, Ms. Rivas’ niece, said education teacher at a public elementary settle, and never stop loving -- this is Larry day. “Lisa Pollari gave back more than she her aunt was born in Puerto Rico in 1957 school near Queens College, her husband Gabbard in six words.” In addition to Mr. ever took,” said Vincent Medugno, a teacher and came to the Bronx as a child with her Little Movement As DOE Faces School Safety Change said. She moved on to serve as a Resource Bellomy, Mr. Gabbard is survived by his par- and coordinator for student activities at at family. She lived in the Riverdale section of Room teacher, before becoming a trainer ents, Lynn L. Holtegel (Rozin) and Larry W. Port Richmond. “She was a role model for the borough at the time of her death. Ms. for Resource Room teachers. She was reas- Gabbard; four sisters, Amy Schibi, Kim Piche, her students, and was a mother to mother- Rivas graduated from the former Theodore signed as an educational evaluator, and Goldyelynn Clark, and Kim Carr. less kids in the school. “She was a remark- Roosevelt High School in the Bronx, and able human being. She taught me how to became a supervisor of education evalua- CHARLES J. LANGJAHR, 91, died May 7. received a BA in education at City College in die peacefully, humbly and gracefully.” tors before being appointed assistant chair He lived in Boynton Beach, Fla. Mr. Langjahr, Manhattan and a master’s degree in educa- In addition to her work as a teacher and of the Committee on Special Education for who played trumpet and piano and also tional leadership from Fordham University. AP, Mrs. Pollari facilitated the Junior ROTC District 24, a position from which she retired composed music, was born in the Chicago She began her career as a middle school program at Port Richmond, which is affili- in 2003. All her work for the DOE was done area, said his daughter Janet Langjahr. An teacher at two schools before transferring ated with the US Army, and also supported in Districts 24, 25 and 26 in Queens, said her aspiring performer in his youth, Mr. Langjar to DeWitt Clinton High School in the Bronx, a number of charitable causes through husband. After she retired, Mrs. Ballabon moved to New York City for more opportu- where she was a biology teacher. She also the school, including autism awareness, was hired by a pre-school for students with nity. He settled in Brooklyn. Mr. Langjahr headed up the animal science program Cooley’s Anemia Foundation, and cancer minor disabilities, Positive Beginnings, in earned a master’s level degree from the at the school, where Ms. Rodriguez met research. “She believed service and citizen- Middle Village, Queens, where she served Manhattan School of Music, and took a job her in 1997. They remained friends and ship started at the high-school age,” said Mr. as principal until December 2020. She was as a music teacher with the DOE. He later colleagues ever since. Ms. Rivas was then Medugno. Mrs. Pollari was also active in the still helping out at the school, when asked, worked as a guidance counselor before appointed an assistant principal of science CSA. In addition to her husband, Mrs. Pollari at the time of her death. Her husband said being appointed an assistant principal at PS at Christopher Columbus High School in the is survived by her parents, Joseph and Janet Safety Of she was drawn to special-needs youngsters 312 (the Bergen Beach School) in Brooklyn. Pelham Parkway section of the Bronx, where Caruana; her brother, Michael Caruana, and because “she saw a chance of giving more He was later named principal there, a post Ms. Rodriguez had transferred and taught her two sons, AJ, 16, a junior at Tottenville Students of herself. She thought these people needed from which he retired in 1991. Mr. Langjahr chemistry. Ms. Rivas accepted the position High School, and Dominick, 13, an eighth- it more,” he said. Recent letters from col- served in the Army during the Korean War of principal at Bronx Health Sciences High grader at IS 34 in Tottenville. Is Our leagues described her “sense of fairness and from 1951 until his discharge in 1953. He School in 2004, and Ms. Rodriguez joined justice” and that she was “universally loved met his future wife, also a trumpet player, JOAN RAAB, 76, died April 7. She her there as assistant principal when the Highest and respected.” “She touched so many in a Harlem nightclub where the two had was born and raised in East Flatbush and school opened that year. Ms. Rivas was lives,” wrote another. In addition to her hus- gone separately to see a performance. They attended Erasmus Hall High School. She actively employed at the time of her death. Priority band, Mrs. Ballabon is survived by the cou- married in 1951. His daughter said that her went on to earn her BA and MA in Biology “She was a respected woman, a hard-work- ple’s son, Jeffrey Ballabon; their daughter, mother and father shared a love of music, and Education from Brooklyn College ing woman, feisty and a loyal friend,” said Miriam Greenberg; 10 grandchildren and fine art photography, and the arts in gen- and then her MEd in Supervision and her niece. “She was the matriarch of the eight great-grandchildren. eral. The couple moved to Florida full-time Administration from Teachers College at family.” Ms. Rodriguez said her friend was LARRY D. GABBARD, 50, a resident of around 1998, she said. “He was always a Columbia University. She began her career “dedicated, hard-working and loved by Norwalk, CT, died April 25. At the time of teacher, until the end of his life. He enjoyed as a Biology and General Science teacher many.” In addition to Ms. Martinez, Ms. his death, Mr. Gabbard was the principal sharing techniques that he used” said his at Samuel J Tilden High School and then Rivas is survived by another niece, Vivian; a of the Stephen T. Mather Building Arts and daughter. Mr. Langjahr’s wife, predeceased became the Assistant Principal of Science nephew, Angel Martinez, and a grand-niece, Craftsmanship High School in Manhattan, him in 2008. The couple’s son, Eric Langjahr, and Marine Science at Beach Channel Olivia. which he founded in 2011 in partnership also predeceased him, in 2004. High School where she taught, supervised Science Teachers and developed a summer with the National Park Service. Mr. Gabbard LISA POLLARI, 49, died May 19. She Send obituary notices to CSA News recreational and instruction program in was born in Lawrenceburg, Ind., and grad- lived in Staten Island. Mrs. Pollari, a long- Editor Chuck Wilbanks at chuck@csa-nyc. Marine Science and Oceanography. Through uated from Indiana University in 1993 time assistant principal at Port Richmond org.

391786_June 2021 CSA News.indd 8 6/5/21 1:36 AM CSA NEWS June 2021 June 2021 CSA NEWS 9 this program students gained experience both in both sailing and collecting live spec- imens for further studies in the science lab- Former Bronx oratory. Joan retired from her position at Nonfiction And Poetry On Beach Channel in 2001. In retirement, she worked for superintendents and principals Principal Is as a consultant in curriculum and instruc- tion. She was co-author, with her husband Education, Labor And Love Carl Raab, of a trade book entitled “The New Denver Student Biologist Explores Genetics.“ She teven Askinazi has written practices can serve as a roadmap to small New York publishing house that and her husband were founding members a memoir of his 21 years the resolution of many of the issues provides a wide offering of books of of the Science Council of New York City as principal of Manhattan facing our schools today.” interest to anyone who cares about Superintendent (SCONYC), an organization that sponsors Center For Science and organized labor and social justice. professional development activities and Mathematics in East Harlem, Music, Nature and Verse One of the books Hardball published BY CSA NEWS STAFF conferences for science teachers. Memorial Swhere he first worked as a teacher and Retired AP Victor Barranca has early in the COVID lockdown was donations can be made to Weill Cornell then an AP. Digging Deep, Aiming High published a book of poetry. My Music: Pandemic Nurse Diary, an oral history Former CSA mem- Medical College, specifying the Joan Raab - An Educator’s Lifelong Quest to Put In Verse, is a volume of “sonnets, told by an anonymous, veteran crit- ber Alex Marrero Brain Cancer Research Fund in your note, Kids First recounts how, in his words, monologues, and other writings that ical care nurse working in one of the was named superin- and sent to: Christophe Larroque, Weill he sought to reject mediocrity and use a contemporary idiom to explore city’s large, dilapidated hospitals serv- tendent of Denver Cornell Medicine, Office of External Affairs, encourage all students to succeed. nature, love, and current events,” ing poor residents. Public Schools on 1300 York Avenue, Box 314, New York, NY “We recognized early on that the the author says. The poems “explore The book chronicles her experi- May 26. The former 10065. bureaucracy in the largest school system the awe of love and nature as well as ences starting in January, 2020, when principal of IS 254 MIRIAM RIVAS, 64, principal of in the nation would prevent us from the first reports of a “novel virus” in the fear of dangerous politics within Alex Morrero in the Bronx, Mr. Bronx Health Sciences High School in the being able to provide the necessary tools classical and experimental forms of China cause her concern, to the first Marrero, 38, is cur- Baychester neighborhood of the Bronx, died to be truly successful,” he said. verse.” My Music: In Verse is published cases trickling in to her hospital, to rently the Interim Superintendent at City May 8. According to Maudi Rodriguez, assis- His solution incorporated ele- by Archway Publishing. the avalanche of patients that soon School District of New Rochelle. tant principal of the school, the cause was ments familiar to successful school overwhelmed her and her cowork- The Denver public school system has heart disease. Ms. Rivas had been principal leaders today: He sought out pub- A Nurse’s Covid Diary ers as they fought to save lives and more than 92,000 students and 14,000 of the school since she and Ms. Rodriguez lic and private partnerships, while remain alive themselves. opened it in 2004. It was the only “small” Veteran nurse and labor organizer employees. He described his new job as “a assembling a team of “trailblazers” “The aging infrastructure, inad- school, with a student body of just 329 Tim Sheard runs Hardball Press, a dream come true.” “I hope to retire from who worked closely with students equate supplies and lack of bold, here,” he said. and parents. effective response to the pan- Mr. Marrero was a graduate of the “We are living in a very demic all come to light in her Executive Leadership Institute’s Advanced explosive time when funding diary,” Mr. Sheard says. “But Leadership Program for Aspiring for public education, deseg- the stories are not all sad or Principals, or ALPAP, and has been an regation, the privatization tragic. There are moments of active member of the Association of of schools, the role of law triumph and precious expres- Dominican Americans Supervisors and enforcement, and controver- sions of humor. And through Administrators, where he was awarded for sies regarding diversity, equity it all runs the solidarity and his leadership accomplishments. and inclusion have become courage of the hospital work- “Alex is a great father and a great educa- politicized,” Mr. Askinazi said. ers who, like the many other tor,” said CSA Executive Vice President Henry “My hope is this book will essential workers in schools, Rubio. “He ran a good school and mentored provide you with an exam- the NYC transit system and ination of the ways in which grocery shops, ventured back many other members in his district. Denver our team dealt with these day after day, night after Public Schools made a great hire. He is going problems, and that our best night, to fight a costly battle.” to be a great superintendent.”

Miriam Rivas Rosemarie Sinclair this year, opened in Truman High School. From 40 Rector Street Elizabeth Martinez, Ms. Rivas’ niece, said her aunt was born in Puerto Rico in 1957 and came to the Bronx as a child with her family. She lived in the Riverdale section of Little Movement As DOE Faces School Safety Change the borough at the time of her death. Ms. Rivas graduated from the former Theodore n order to learn, students must obvi- progress. In February, I offered testimony the president of Local 237, Gregory Floyd, Roosevelt High School in the Bronx, and ously feel valued, respected and safe. at a city council hearing on matters of shared his union’s concerns and indicated received a BA in education at City College in The health, welfare and safety of stu- school safety to insist once again that the that the city has not had any serious discus- Manhattan and a master’s degree in educa- dents is every educator’s highest pri- city begin to plan with all stakeholders as sions with their union leadership thus far, tional leadership from Fordham University. ority. So, last summer, our union had soon as possible. We know school leaders raising doubts for him whether this transi- She began her career as a middle school Iserious concerns when the city decided to still have many questions, and we have tion will even occur, particularly given that teacher at two schools before transferring transition the oversight of the School Safety diligently tried to get answers. What will we will have a new mayor at that time. to DeWitt Clinton High School in the Bronx, Division from the NYPD to the DOE in the the role of the principal be in the hiring, where she was a biology teacher. She also wake of the civil unrest after the murder supervision, and evaluation of school safety • • • headed up the animal science program of George Floyd. As the city council urged personnel? What is the plan for ongoing hough many questions remain, we at the school, where Ms. Rodriguez met training, and staffing? Will there be new will of course continue to partner her in 1997. They remained friends and protocols? Under what circumstances will with the NYPD and DOE to support colleagues ever since. Ms. Rivas was then T police involvement be warranted and how schools, and we are committed to ensuring appointed an assistant principal of science We are concerned that will the DOE coordinate and maintain a that any transition is implemented success- at Christopher Columbus High School in the Safety Of working relationship with the NYPD? What fully for the benefit of school communities. Pelham Parkway section of the Bronx, where the DOE isn’t developing Ms. Rodriguez had transferred and taught Students assurances do we have that the number of According to the city, the transition will chemistry. Ms. Rivas accepted the position plans quickly enough to safety agents assigned to each school is ade- still end July 2022 and will obviously be a of principal at Bronx Health Sciences High Is Our quate? What will be the process for securing functional transition where the vital work School in 2004, and Ms. Rodriguez joined meet their own deadline substitutes? Are there plans to add addi- of school safety agents will continue as it her there as assistant principal when the Highest of July, 2022 tional support? The one meeting we had on unfolds. We continue to have our monthly school opened that year. Ms. Rivas was this subject earlier this month provided no safety meetings with the School Safety actively employed at the time of her death. Priority evidence that the DOE has a strong com- Division and other stakeholders where our “She was a respected woman, a hard-work- mand of this daunting transition, and we union’s leadership and members give voice ing woman, feisty and a loyal friend,” said the mayor to announce the change, we are concerned that they are not developing to our essential perspectives. Throughout her niece. “She was the matriarch of the immediately shared that we were opposed plans quickly enough to meet their own the summer and next year, we will maintain family.” Ms. Rodriguez said her friend was to the idea. This oversight was taken from deadline of July, 2022. our seat at the table so that we can help “dedicated, hard-working and loved by the DOE over 20 years ago due to its inabil- Obviously, these are questions that con- ensure the safety and well-being of those our many.” In addition to Ms. Martinez, Ms. ity to manage the unit, and our union felt cern families as well, and the Community members serve. And we know that they will Rivas is survived by another niece, Vivian; a there was no reason to believe that the DOE Education Council in District 16 recently continue to do everything in their power to nephew, Angel Martinez, and a grand-niece, is better positioned today to take on this held a town hall meeting, and I served as a monitor and improve safety procedures and Olivia. responsibility. member of the panel. DOE representatives protocols in their schools to create optimal Ultimately, though, it was the mayor’s who attended gave a brief overview and learning conditions for all students. Send obituary notices to CSA News decision, and last July he announced a two- only shared general information about the Editor Chuck Wilbanks at chuck@csa-nyc. year transition. Unfortunately, nearly a year committees they have set up to help plan Rosemarie Sinclair is First Vice President at org. has passed, and there are still no signs of the transition. At that virtual meeting, CSA.

391786_June 2021 CSA News.indd 9 6/5/21 1:36 AM 10 CSA NEWS June 2021 June 2021 CSA NEWS Letter Voting Records Available

To the Editor: Thanks to CSA and Chapter AFSA, we are all members of the Alliance For Retired Americans. One of the high- lights of this membership is receiving the organization’s “Congressional RETIREE Voting Record,” published April 30. In it you will find reports on the voting CHAIR’S MESSAGE record of every member of Congress and their “Pro Retiree” score, up to 100. The Gayle Lockett Senate Votes section deals with issues such as paid leave, health tax repeal, Supreme Court confirmations, and the Count The Blessings Affordable Care Act. The House Votes deal with issues such as Postal Pension s of May 22, over 129 mil- lion Americans had been fully vaccinated, approx- imately 38 percent of the country. Hopefully we 2020 IRMAA Application Awill reach President Biden’s goal of 70 percent of the population having had The 2020 IRMAA application is now available. You can download the form at least one vaccination. from the CSA Welfare Fund website, www.csawf.org. Include the following in Meanwhile, we have been told your request for 2020 IRMAA: that those of us who are vaccinated 1. A completed reimbursement request application. Be sure to check off can safely go without masks, and 2020 and sign and date the application. If your spouse/domestic partner is return to a normal life, meeting with your dependent, be sure to complete the Eligible Spouse/Dependent section friends and relatives and resuming of the application. If your spouse/domestic partner is also a NYC retiree and our previous lives as much as that is has a separate NYC health plan, then she/he has to submit a separate reim- possible. Some of us are already planning reunions and trips for bursement request application. the fall and winter. Nevertheless, I urge you to use discretion. 2. The November 2019 Social Security Award letter. This is the annual Keep in mind that even with being vaccinated, we can still get letter that tells you how much Social Security you will be receiving the fol- the virus. And we must still pay attention to the news over the lowing year (in this case 2020) & your Medicare Part B & D premiums. summer – it has not been decided yet if we need a booster shot 3. The Social Security 1099 for 2020. If you went on Medicare during after five or six months after being vaccinated. 2020, you are entitled to a pro-rated 2020 IRMAA reimbursement. For those Kudos to all the regional unit leaders, assistant leaders and of you who cannot send the forms in electronically, as OLR requests, you executive board members for the yeoman’s work they have can continue to submit the forms to CSA at 40 Rector St., 12th floor, New done by keeping members informed during this difficult year. A York, NY 10006. special thank you goes out to CSA President Mark Cannizzaro, who during his busy day made it a point to join many of the units’ Zoom meetings to speak to us on union updates, espe- cially regarding the in-service members’ plight. Mr. Cannizzaro was appreciative of the retirees for their helpfulness and support for the in-service members and the union. Zoom Classes On Deck Also, kudos to Welfare Fund Administrator Dr. Douglas Saluting Legendary Unionist BY LUCIE ELIO Hathaway who spoke at many regional units and was able to answer many questions regarding the negotiations over the n Jim Mehlman, one of CSA’s ‘Founding Fathers,’ passed away in March. (See obituary in the May, We offer the following virtual classes and lectures to members, free, Medicare Advantage Plan. If you missed a presentation, Dr. 2021 issue of CSA News.) Friends and colleagues have sent in several of their own memorials, and we except for the last three. To register, email [email protected]. List Hathaway has posted a session on the Welfare Fund website. have published them on our web page, at www.csa-nyc.org/mehlman/. In the photograph above, Mr. the event, including class/ lecture’s title, your name, email and phone. Note: Also, for those who receive Medicare and are eligible, the IRMAA Mehlman is seen holding a sign during a labor action during the years when Ed Koch was mayor. The The Educational/Cultural Program will not offer any virtual presentations in form is posted. photograph, reproduced in large format, graces the wall of CSA’s headquarters. Thank you to RC Director Mark Brodsky for setting up August, but resumes in September. the Zoom sessions for many of the units, and to Educational/ Cultural Coordinators Lucie Elio, Ana Maldonado and Patricia 7/1 – Yankee Doodle Dandy – Sal St. George – 1:00 Mack. They provided informative and delightful Zoom classes 7/8 – Prospect Park – A & S Zuckerman – 1:00 and events that kept many of us focused and connected to oth- 7/12 – Jones Beach- Dr. Ron Brown- 1:00 From DOE: Broken Promise 7/14 – Books & Bagels – Beth Peller - 10:30 ers. Thanks to Steve Porter who advised units about their bud- gets and to the RC political liaison Mitra Lutchman, who kept 7/15 – Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia – Licet Valois 1:00 us politically informed and focused. 7/19 – Galapagos: Darwin’s Enchanted Islands – Eco-photo Explorers – 1:00 Despite the pandemic that disrupted our lives, let us remem- On Lump Sum Payment 7/26 – Art Exhibit - Retiree Members -TBD ber how fortunate we are to be part of this union. As retirees with a defined pension, we have done well economically. Continued from Page 1 program iLearnNYC. “I was expecting to see • • • and the second November 2021. my retro check deposited, but it wasn’t. If ave a marvelous summer and remember to inform the But while active members have received I were active, I wouldn’t have had an issue Welcome New Members Retiree Chapter and the Welfare Fund if you changed the money owed them, those who have with my retro check. But when you’re retired, your email address, home address and telephone num- retired recently have been stiffed. you’re dead to them. There is no one to talk H “CSA came to the table in good faith, to at DOE, and nobody is answering their bers. Important updates will be sent to you by email. If you Myrtle Adams know a colleague who does not use email on a regular basis, trying to help the city through an uncertain phones anyway. I wonder, how did I fall off Lynette Alexander please call them to keep them informed. Also, check CSA’s web- time,” said Dale Kelly, CSA’s grievance direc- the radar like that? Did someone just push a Carmen Asselta tor, who on May 7 filed a grievance for the site for current news. button? Oct. 1 was my retirement date, and Douglas Avila missing payment with the DOE’s Office of on Oct. 2, I had no more email. They killed On behalf of myself and RC Officers Joseph Rosenberg, John Karen Bailey Labor Relations. “To then hang on to people’s my profile. They just cut me off. The only Oricchio, Stanley Wilson and Janice Imundi, RC Director Mark Mitchel Berk hard-earned retroactive payments is uncon- people you can contact are at CSA.” Brodsky, Special VP for the RC Nancy Russo and the RC Executive Debra D’Ann Blackwell Board, we wish you have a happy, safe and memorable summer. scionable. It’s simply wrong not to make “I gave all my years to the system, and I’m these retirees whole immediately.” a hard worker,” she added. “There doesn’t Lorraine Boyhan In some cases, retirees report serious rami- seem to be any loyalty.” Genie Calibar In Unity, Paul Cannon Gayle Lockett fications stemming from the broken promise, Nilda Kraft, also a retired EA, shared Ms. since they had budgeted on the assumption Bracco’s sentiments, and is grateful that CSA Kerry Castellano that the payment would be made. For exam- is pushing the city to address this wrong. Richard Cohen ple, one recent retiree had a hospital stay that “I managed to buy a townhouse when I Carmen Colon-Montes has resulted in a pile of bills and no immedi- retired, but it needs work,” she said. “I was de Oca ate way to pay. counting on that retro check to start the ren- Katherine Corso “When you retire, you expect things to ovations. I worked very hard – everyone who Karina Costantino work the way they should,” said Winnie earned it deserves it. Marilyn Custodio Bracco, a retired EA who was the executive “I was happy when Mr. Cannizzaro said, Lenore DiLeo-Berner director of the remote and online learning “Grieve!” Marsha Elliott

391786_June 2021 CSA News.indd 10 6/5/21 1:36 AM CSA NEWS June 2021 June 2021 CSA NEWS 11 Letter RC Regional Units Voting Records Available Reform, COVID Relief, Protection of Health Care and Emergency Housing. A To the Editor: Thanks to CSA and comparison of states’ votes is eye-open- LONG ISLAND MID ATLANTIC ing! The 2022 Congressional elections Chapter AFSA, we are all members of the Alliance The Unit held its annual spring gen- Our next meeting will be June 16 at have already started, and it is essential For Retired Americans. One of the high- eral membership meeting via Zoom that we be aware of the records of our noon. The guest speaker, Steve Kramer, lights of this membership is receiving on May 11. Many thanks to Mark representatives, as we prepare for next will give an overview of the new CSA the organization’s “Congressional Brodsky and Gayle Lockett for speak- year’s elections. I urge you to get the Legal Service Plan. Our next newslet- Voting Record,” published April 30. In ing to our members. Our guest speaker, Voting Record that is vital to American ter will be published in September. We it you will find reports on the voting Barry Klitzberg, treated participants retirees by emailing retiredamericans.org welcome members to submit an article, record of every member of Congress and to a detailed presentation regarding and requesting the 116th Congress, 2nd poem, or brief blurb with details about their “Pro Retiree” score, up to 100. The Medicare. He shared what we should Session. an accomplishment or milestone. Send Senate Votes section deals with issues all know prior to eligibility and what as a Word document (1 picture accepted) such as paid leave, health tax repeal, –Donald Singer to expect once we have Medicare insur- to [email protected], no later Supreme Court confirmations, and the Mr. Singer, former president of CSA, is a ance. We encourage all members to visit than June 30. Please note that your sub- Affordable Care Act. The House Votes Board member of NY and Florida Chapters our website at csaliretirees.com. The mission may be slightly edited. We wish deal with issues such as Postal Pension of the Alliance For Retired Americans website provides informational updates everyone a safe, healthy and enjoyable as well as the unit’s newsletters. In addi- summer and look forward to seeing you tion, our May and June virtual activities in the fall. During summer, feel free to are outlined with dates, times and how contact unit leader, Rajinder Kaur, at 2020 IRMAA Application to participate. They include, Current rkcsa11@gmail or (516) 343-9328. Events, Chair Yoga, Simply Aerobics and —Debra Brown Tai Chi. All classes are free of charge and The 2020 IRMAA application is now available. You can download the form provide an opportunity for all of us to from the CSA Welfare Fund website, www.csawf.org. Include the following in virtually interact with colleagues. If you SOUTHWEST your request for 2020 IRMAA: would like to become a member of the 1. A completed reimbursement request application. Be sure to check off Warm weather is here. For those in unit, please download a member appli- 2020 and sign and date the application. If your spouse/domestic partner is Arizona, please stay hydrated. To mem- cation from our website at csaliretirees. your dependent, be sure to complete the Eligible Spouse/Dependent section bers who escape the heat, please stay safe com or, if you are already a member and of the application. If your spouse/domestic partner is also a NYC retiree and and well. Thank you to all who paid 2021 need to update your email and contact has a separate NYC health plan, then she/he has to submit a separate reim- dues. Members who have not submit- information, please email csalongislan- bursement request application. ted their $15 check, kindly remit imme- [email protected]. 2. The November 2019 Social Security Award letter. This is the annual diately. Only paid-up members receive —Karla Landesman Marrero letter that tells you how much Social Security you will be receiving the fol- additional benefits afforded members lowing year (in this case 2020) & your Medicare Part B & D premiums. paid in full for the year! Questions or con- 3. The Social Security 1099 for 2020. If you went on Medicare during cerns should be addressed to: Stef Thier 2020, you are entitled to a pro-rated 2020 IRMAA reimbursement. For those BRONX at [email protected]. All correspondence should be sent to: Stef Thier, 17850 N 68 of you who cannot send the forms in electronically, as OLR requests, you We are in the midst of a new day as St., Unit 3124, Phoenix, AZ 85054. Thank can continue to submit the forms to CSA at 40 Rector St., 12th floor, New our city renews itself. We’ve confirmed you and enjoy the summer. York, NY 10006. most of our dates for the remainder of —Stef Thier the year: Our End of the Year Virtual Meeting will be June 17 with a Tour of the Bronx by Art/Susan Zuckerman. On MANHATTAN Sept. 29, we will have our virtual fall general membership meeting. Attorney We are collecting dues for the 2021- Zoom Classes On Deck Steve Kramer will give us a comprehen- 22 year which goes from May 1, 2021 to sive overview of our legal benefits from April 30, 2022. Dues are still only $15. If Saluting Legendary Unionist BY LUCIE ELIO you have not yet done so, please send a Feldman, Kramer and Monaco Law Firm. check to “Manhattan Unit-CSARC.” Mail n It will be a two-part presentation on Oct. Jim Mehlman, one of CSA’s ‘Founding Fathers,’ passed away in March. (See obituary in the May, We offer the following virtual classes and lectures to members, free, to: Stanley H Wilson, 400 East 56 St., 8M, 2021 issue of CSA News.) Friends and colleagues have sent in several of their own memorials, and we 6 and Oct. 13. More details will follow except for the last three. To register, email [email protected]. List New York NY 10022. Thanks so much. have published them on our web page, at www.csa-nyc.org/mehlman/. In the photograph above, Mr. in our newsletter to be mailed shortly. the event, including class/ lecture’s title, your name, email and phone. Note: — Stanley Wilson Mehlman is seen holding a sign during a labor action during the years when Ed Koch was mayor. The Our unit would like to give a heartfelt The Educational/Cultural Program will not offer any virtual presentations in photograph, reproduced in large format, graces the wall of CSA’s headquarters. thank you to Dr. Douglas Hathaway for August, but resumes in September. an informative presentation of the pro- SOUTHEAST FLORIDA posed Medicare Advantage Plan. Bronx 7/1 – Yankee Doodle Dandy – Sal St. George – 1:00 County District Attorney, Darcel Clark With great sadness, we mourn the 7/8 – Prospect Park – A & S Zuckerman – 1:00 gave an excellent overview about our passing of Joseph (Jim) Mehlman, unit 7/12 – Jones Beach- Dr. Ron Brown- 1:00 beloved Bronx and its upcoming activi- founder and lifelong executive board From DOE: Broken Promise 7/14 – Books & Bagels – Beth Peller - 10:30 ties to ensure equality in our community. member. When I assumed the role of 7/15 – Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia – Licet Valois 1:00 DA Clark’s illuminating presence as our unit leader, Jim was my mentor. He will 7/19 – Galapagos: Darwin’s Enchanted Islands – Eco-photo Explorers – 1:00 guest speaker was delightful. Upcoming be missed by all of us. On May 19th, On Lump Sum Payment 7/26 – Art Exhibit - Retiree Members -TBD events from the Bronx Community 2021 a Zoom presentation was made Affairs Unit will be shared with you via to all unit members on the legal bene- email. Remember to renew your mem- fits plan provided by the union. It was program iLearnNYC. “I was expecting to see bership by sending in your $15. annual extremely informative. Check our web- my retro check deposited, but it wasn’t. If dues. You can always contact me with site: csasouthflorida.com for our newslet- I were active, I wouldn’t have had an issue any questions: [email protected]. ter, forms, health info, photos and more. with my retro check. But when you’re retired, Welcome New Members —Sharon D. Thompson — Lois Turetzky you’re dead to them. There is no one to talk to at DOE, and nobody is answering their Myrtle Adams Alan Faulkner Renee Pollack phones anyway. I wonder, how did I fall off Lynette Alexander Marita Franzman Marilyn Reid the radar like that? Did someone just push a Carmen Asselta Vincenza Gallassio Nakoley Renville New Cost-Of-Living (COLA) Bills button? Oct. 1 was my retirement date, and Douglas Avila Deena Goldstein-Cohen John Sasko on Oct. 2, I had no more email. They killed Karen Bailey Shelley Greene Phyllis Schweiger NYS Sen. Andrew Gounardes introduced of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for COLA my profile. They just cut me off. The only Mitchel Berk Liset Issac Andrea Schweiger two important bills recently in Albany. CSA benefits from no more than 3 percent and people you can contact are at CSA.” supports both. First, S. 5631, would guard no less than 1 percent of CPI to no more Debra D’Ann Blackwell Marcia Halperin Carron Staple “I gave all my years to the system, and I’m benefits enjoyed by surviving spouses than 5 percent and no less than 1 percent Lorraine Boyhan Gregory Jacobs Rosemary Stuart a hard worker,” she added. “There doesn’t of CSA members. Current law limits the of CPI. The caps placed on COLA-covered Genie Calibar Warren James Jr. Veronica Tenny seem to be any loyalty.” amount of Cost of Living Adjuistment a benefits erode the retirement income of Nilda Kraft, also a retired EA, shared Ms. Paul Cannon Dawn Johannes-Cerrone Carmen Toledo surviving spouse may receive. A COLA is those affected retirees over time. In partic- Bracco’s sentiments, and is grateful that CSA Kerry Castellano Irwin Kaufman Thomasina Vignogna limited to spouses entitled to a survivor’s ular, medical costs have risen at a rate far is pushing the city to address this wrong. Richard Cohen Anthony Lodico Sheryl Watkins benefit under an option selected by the in excess of the consumer price index (CPI). “I managed to buy a townhouse when I Carmen Colon-Montes Demosthenes Lyriotakis David Weissman retiree. Currently, surviving spouses may Passage of this bill will help ensure that retired, but it needs work,” she said. “I was de Oca Varleton McDonald Rosemarie Wilberg only receive 50 percent of the COLA ben- public retirees and their surviving spouses counting on that retro check to start the ren- Katherine Corso Rosa Nieves Greene Beverly Wilkins efit that the deceased retiree received. This may sustain a dignified and secure retire- ovations. I worked very hard – everyone who Karina Costantino Maureen O’Hara Tuwanna Williams Gray bill would increase COLA payable to eligible ment and allow them to continue to con- earned it deserves it. Marilyn Custodio Rosa Perez Leonetti Leonard Wolff surviving spouses to the full amount. tribute effectively to the long-term health “I was happy when Mr. Cannizzaro said, Lenore DiLeo-Berner Marcelle Phillip Hughley Jacqueline Zaretsky Another bill by Gounardes, S.6030-A, of our economy. Both bills are currently “Grieve!” Marsha Elliott Marco Pietrangelo would increase the maximum percentage before committee.

391786_June 2021 CSA News.indd 11 6/5/21 1:36 AM 391786_June 2021CSA News.indd12 saying thedesign“madehis day.” For Karim wrote.Garciaresponded by should be happy the way they bloom,” meaning of the shoeis‘Everyone thoughtful colors and patterns. “The so Karimdesignedherownshoeswith used designtoencourageselfesteem, was inspiredbyhowBobbitoGarcia City ofNewYork.NusaibahKarim style, hostedbytheMuseumof Mr. Garciaonbasketballsoundsand Karim attended a presentation by he inspired.SixthgraderNusaibah teacher sentGarciathesneakerdesign Bobbito Garciaafterherscience caught theattentionofdesigner Health SciencesSecondarySchool Way TheyBloom” Should BeHappyThe And Style:“Everyone Designer’s Sounds Student InspiredBy S Queens Gateway to A studentatQueensGatewayto A Pandemic Singing Through “Through artwereallyseehowtheyfeel.” finding theappropriatewords,”Ms.Herrerasaid. times Ithinkteenagersingeneralstrugglewith tual spaceforstudentstosharetheirwork.“Often for thepandemic,Herrerasaidtheycreatedavir- process andreflect.”Whenthebuildingclosed Herrera, sostudentshavethefreedomto“think, There’s nostrictcurriculum,saidPrincipalMaria movement, climatechangeandpolicebrutality. current eventsincludingtheBlackLivesMatter themselves. Student’spieceshavereflectedon ulum andofferstudentsanoutlettoexpress Varadan, tocomplementtheirequitycurric- the advancedstudioartclass,taughtbySailesh Principal MariaHerrerasaidtheschoolcreated Queens ining social justice through their artwork. ining socialjusticethroughtheirartwork. Musical TheaterandtheArtsareexam- tudents atRenaissanceHighSchoolfor Bronx JUNE 2021 Printed onFSCcertifiedpaper (DIST. (DIST. 24-30) (DIST.

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40 RectorSt.,NY,NY10006 Local 1AFSA,AFL-CIO New YorkStateFederationofSchoolAdministrators Council ofSchoolSupervisors&Administrators,NYC things likearttoreachpeople.” dreaming ofaworldwherewecanuse Karim] isdoing,” he said. “She’s happiness. “Thisiswhat[Nusaibah to takeinitiative,dreamandspread project ismeanttoencouragestudents Assistant PrincipalAmarSamaroo,the Briefs / In

recently recognizedbytheNYC Revamping Libraries

The Staten Island Principal Jennifer Logan was Schools Bobbito Garcia. attention ofdesigner shoe designcaughtthe dent NusaibahKarim’s Secondary Schoolstu- To HealthSciences n QueensGateway (D-31) Emma KateFittes Compiled by endless,” Ms.Logansaid. children toseethatthepossibilitiesare wait list for popular authors. “We want surged. Some classrooms had to start a ings. Asaresult,interestinreadinghas events, suchastheAtlantaspashoot- such as deportation, or significant tions withstudentsabouttheirfears, allowed teacherstoopenupconversa- options. Someofthenewoptions ate virtualbookshelveswithsimilar the building,teachersworkedtocre- Logan said.WhenCOVID19closed more than1,000newbooks,Ms. classroom library.Eachroomreceived the books, then organized their new and themes.Studentshelpedchoose resent more diverse authors, characters revamp eachclassroom’slibrarytorep- Logan began targeting resources to Vierno School. Three years ago, Ms. ulum atPS41The Stephanie A. grating racialequityintothecurric- Development officeforherworkinte- DOE Leadership,Empowerment,and csa-nyc.org. an emailtoChuckWilbanksat chuck@ Have newsaboutyourschool?Send and AdditionalMailingOffice Brooklyn, NY11201 US POSTAGEPAIDAT Periodicals 6/5/21 1:36AM