Advising on Their New School P 5 n Crowds arrive and register in the grand mezzanine of the Hilton New York. Old friends exchange greetings.

December 2010* Volume 44, Number 4 Local 1, American Federation of School Administrators, AFL-CIO CSANEWS COUNCIL OF SCHOOL SUPERVISORS AND ADMINISTRATORS Special 2010 ConferenceReport

n President Logan’s rousing speech received several standing ovations.

Logan’s Address P 2-3 Complete Coverage P9-15

n Guests viewed a cornucopia of education materials in the busy exhibit hall.

Retirees at the Conference, p 17-18

n At lunch, 1, 355 members and guest contribute to a gala affair. 2 CSA NEWS December 2010 December 2010 CSA NEWS 3 December 2010 LOGAN’S ADDRESS AT THE CONFERENCE COMING EVENTS Events are at CSA’s We Must to Brooklyn Headquarters, Fight ( 16 Court Street, unless ) otherwise noted. Council of School DEC. 14, 5 PM: Supervisors & Administrators Keep What We Have Association of Black American Federation of School Administrators, AFL-CIO, Local 1 Educators of New 16 Court Street, Brooklyn, NY 11241-1003 York Phone: (718) 852-3000 Maintaining the Labor Movement’s Legacy. ByErnestA.Logan Fax: (718) 403-0278 RACHEL ELKIND DEC. 14, 5 PM: CSA www.csa-nyc.org that we’ve spent, we should do a better job of how n CSA’s officers, Executive Board members and District Chairs attended a reception for ‘dais’ guests at the CSA Conference. After the reception, the Latino Caucus we look at our school system. guests including state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli and AFSA President Diann Woodard proceeded into the Grand Ballroom. President To keep imagination alive, we must also stop DEC. 15, 5 PM: CSA Ernest A. Logan Executive Board Executive Vice President allowing the arts to get the axe every time we face Peter J. McNally a budget cut. Do you remember when an arts and sector employees, government workers – including those of us us until we come crawling to the table, taking peanuts that they DEC. 16, 10 AM: CSA First Vice President science education was what everyone wanted – who educate children – to sacrifice more and be grateful to have offer. [Editor’s Note: The 1982 Triborough Amendment prohibits a Retiree Chapter Randi Herman, Ed.D what everyone dreamed of? The arts didn’t take a a paycheck, any kind of paycheck. public employer from altering an expired labor agreement until a new Secretary back seat. We know that artistic imagination is as Some of the most imaginative, creative, innovative contract is reached.] Executive Board Mark Cannizzaro important to society as scientific imagination. I Americans founded the labor movement. They were not inter- I am a firm supporter of collective bargaining. It requires DEC. 20, 5 PM: Irish Treasurer know, as a school leader, that we’ve all felt we had ested in a “race to the bottom.”Neither are we. imagination, creativity and innovation. I support constructive Laverne Burrowes American to cut a music program or a poetry program We’re interested in fighting for the legacy of those brilliant changes and flexibility to work rules and conditions. I believe in Vice Presidents Committee of the Jermaine J. Garden, because there just wasn’t enough money to go men and women who created a movement in America more accountability. But I will fight to the end if only we, America’s Robert Kazanowitz, around. Let’s face it: These programs are the ones than a century ago. We want to live up to the vision of those organized workers, are asked to lower our expectations for a DOE Richard Oppenheimer, Henry Rubio, Nancy Russo, that make a lot of your students want to come to who brought us the 40-hour work week, a safe working environ- decent life while the rich get even richer and the gulf between JAN. 4, 4 PM: CSA Irwin Shanes, Retiree Chapter school. They’re important even if the subjects ment, a two-day weekend and an end to child labor. Before the rich and the poor grows so wide that the middle class disap- Pre-Retirement “aren’t on the test.” unions pushed for pensions for workers, only the wealthy could pears altogether. Executive Director Operations Workshop Anita Gomez-Palacio • • • retire. Today, the wealthy are still at a huge advantage over the When we fight for a decent life for our unionized educators General Counsel rest of us. But, we don’t hear enough of an outcry when corpo- we are fighting for the children in our public schools. Without JAN. 5, 4:30 PM: CSA Bruce K. Bryant If you paid attention today to what you heard rate giants make their multi-million dollar salaries, get their decent salaries, benefits and protections, the best and the bright- District Chairs Counsel about imagination and creativity you know you multi-million dollar bonuses, and win their golden parachutes. est will not be willing to lead and teach in our schools. Without David Grandwetter have to make that part of what you do every sin- a strong union, the city can impose rules and regulations on our Charity Guerra JAN. 6, 5 PM: gle day. • • • school leaders that are budget-oriented, not child-oriented. Comptroller NYCESPA Phil Fodera Lately, the buzz about education seems to cen- et us not allow corporate America to scapegoat us. Let us Now we face another fight. The city thinks it can save CSA President Ernest Logan made his annual address to the union’s Special Assistant to President ter around one of my super heroes, Superman. I was a little sur- not allow them to lower salaries, reduce hard-earned money by sending students with special needs to local schools. JAN. 10, 5 PM: Gary Goldstein membership at the 46th Educational Leadership Conference on Nov. prised to learn that Geoffrey Canada, who I know, thought benefits and lower expectations for our children’s educa- We will fight to make sure that our school leaders have all the Association of 13. His remarks, below, have been edited for publication. In his opening Executive Director Field Services Superman was coming to the hood. For years as a child, I read tion and future employment. We must remain vigilant training, all the resources and all the tools they need to meet Assistant Principals Audrey Fuentes statement, he thanked CSA Executive Vice President Peter McNally and about Superman’s exploits and I watched him on TV, and none Land respond with all our might when the giants of industry and the needs of those children. This shouldn’t be about the city’s Field Directors CSA First Vice President Randi Herman for their support and acknowl- of those neighborhoods that he flew into looked like mine. I finance stir up the public’s rage against us and come to snatch need to save a few bucks by consolidating special education pro- JAN. 10, 5 PM: Juanita Bass, Stephen Bennett, edged lawmakers and special guests on the dais. (Watch Mr. Logan’s Phyliss Bullion, Bernard Lopez, came into this profession understanding and believing that I what we have earned. grams. This should be about our children. And without strong Education William Meehan, Kathleen Murphy, speech at www.youtube.com/user/FollowCSA.) was the superhero – I could make a difference in a child’s life. I Every one of us in this room should be especially concerned education unions, the city would be far less accountable. Administrator’s Daisy O’Gorman, Steven M. Rosen, Margaret Williams didn’t come looking for someone to do the job that I could do, about the onslaught of anti-unionism. CSA doesn’t have a con- These are the principles that CSA has fought for over the past Association ou folks have made me look real, real good. So and can do. Neither did you – You ARE the super heroes! Don’t tract yet. UFT doesn’t have a contract yet. Our city-funded Day nearly 50 years and that’s what CSA will continue to fight for in Assistant Field Directors Mary Aloisio, Mildred Boyce, give yourselves a hand. It’s what you do day in let anybody tell you different. Care Directors and Assistant Directors haven’t had a contract for the upcoming contract negotiations. We want to raise your Please check with the Mark Brodsky, Joseph Costa, and day out, no matter what people throw at you; But a lot of folks who really don’t know very much about more than four years. We should be outraged. expectations for a good life so that you can raise the expecta- event organizer to confirm Charles Dluzniewski, Martin Fiasconaro, Joanne Frank, Aura Gangemi, it’s what you do day in and day out that makes education, think this documentary, Waiting for Superman, is What they would like to do is change the Triborough tions for your students. We want our public school children to times and dates Pat Glassman, Ellie Greenberg, schools work. Amendment. Why? Because they’ll never have to negotiate with have great lives. Ray Gregory, James Harrigan, Now, let me talk about my friend, Joel Klein. This past Robert Jeanette, Kate Leonard, Y Christine Martin, Monica McDonald, week, he surprised us with the news of his resignation just as I will fight to the end if union Lena Medley, Thelma Peeples, we were finally getting used to each other. He said something Mercedes Qualls, Cynthia Sanders, Shelli Sklar from the heart when he spoke earlier today. He said, “I made members are asked to lower Teachers’ Grievance Director him a better Chancellor.” But he stopped there. If he had only their expectations while the rich State, City Deal for Black Appointment Retirement System Robert J. Reich listened to me, he would have been a great Chancellor! November 2010 Assistant Directors So now we have to teach the new Chancellor about schools. get even richer. Carol Atkins, Robert Colon, BY ANNE SILVERSTEIN Unit Values Marlene Lazar, Ph.D, I’m looking forward to meeting Cathie Black. We’ve had an Business Phyllis Casolaro Williams Diversified Equity: 55.253 opportunity for a brief conversation. I’m truly looking forward Schools Chancellor Joel Director of Communications to hearing what her vision is for our school system but, more Background Stable-Value: 19.249 Chiara Coletti about super heroes who can reform education overnight. Klein surprised everyone on importantly, how she plans to implement that vision, utilizing Nov. 9 with his resignation International Equity: 9.397 Assistant Director That’s not a very creative point of view. In fact, it’s simple- n Ms. Black is credited with you. I don’t care what anybody says about this system; nothing Inflation Protection: 10.813 Antoinette Isable minded. This is a film that suggests that virtually no talented, after eight years as the head of the success of USA Today, Socially Responsive Director of Political Affairs can happen unless you buy into it. How do we know that? caring educators have entered an urban public school since the NYC’s school system. Herman Merritt Because we know that successful schools have successful teams Mayor Michael Bloomberg where, starting in 1983, Equity: 9.938 1970s, and everyone in this room knows that’s not true! she was first president, Assistant Directors of Principals, Assistant Principals, teachers and other support Speaking of Superman, two years ago, we assembled here then created an even bigger stir John Khani then publisher. Sondra Peeden – Political Affairs staff. That’s how that works. You lead a whole community. with high hopes and optimism, looking forward to President when he announced that pub- Alithia Rodriguez-Rolon – Governmental She has some challenges ahead. And, I would ask you, at Obama’s new foundation for America. Millions of people lishing executive Cathie Black Affairs Correction this point, to withhold judgment. Joel, I hope you told her believed that whatever he did would be imaginative, creative would be Mr. Klein’s successor. n She made publishing his- Director of IT The news was so secret that not tory in 1979 when she Egal Sanchez she’s going to need a real thick skin to take this job. It’s funny: and innovative and – like Superman – he would do it even Mr. Klein’s top aides knew MEDIA2WORK.NET became the first woman CSA Conference Chairman When I became the Principal of a school, everybody knew how overnight. Well, having hope is a great thing, but expecting Pierre Lehmuller to run that school better than I did. When you become overnight miracles isn’t so smart. We shouldn’t be surprised nor State Education Commis- n From left, Joel Klein, Mayor Bloomberg, and Cathie Black publisher of a weekly sioner David Steiner. CSA Retiree Chapter Chancellor, everybody knows how to run the system better that we are still impatiently waiting for President Obama’s new consumer magazine, terms, and named Deputy his choice: "It just goes to show Neil Lefkowitz, Chair than you do. America. Ms. Black, the former Mark Brodsky, Director President of Hearst Magazines, Chancellor Shael Polakow- they [critics] have no under- New York. • • • But we should be concerned – really worried – that in two years’ time, the optimism of America has been robbed by cor- has no education credentials, Suransky to a soon-to-be-cre- standing of what the job is.” CSA Historian ated number two position. CSA President Ernest Logan n She is the best-selling Jack Zuckerman know all of you in this room understand that when we porate and financial industry thieves who squandered so much no public education affiliations (Editor’s Note: This is the third said that the union will do author of BASIC BLACK: recognize our students have different styles of learning, we of our nation’s wealth. These thieves are exploiting the desper- and no advanced degree. CSA NEWS consecutive waiver, something of what it can to support both Mr. are much more likely to recognize the original thinkers ation of America’s unemployed as if they weren’t responsible Because of that, she required a The Essential Guide for Editor Anne Silverstein a conundrum since the object of Polakow-Suransky and Ms. n and budding artists in our classrooms, and, yes, sometimes for most of that unemployment. waiver from Dr. Steiner. Two Getting Ahead at Work. Maria Herrera Editorial Assistant Yuridia Peña weeks of drama followed before a waiver should be an exception Black in their new roles. “We Iwe find the rare genius. But to keep imagination alive and to They want the public to believe that the new President’s In the November 2010 CSA Production Consultant Michele Pacheco to the law, not the norm.) hope the Mayor’s new team strengthen it in our children, we will have to move away from vision has already failed. They want the public to believe that Dr. Steiner offered Mayor n Ms. Black earned News as well as in the 2010 CSA Production Assistant Christine Altman Parents, lawmakers and will be successful as it moves testing for the sake of testing. We can’t test just to pile up organized labor, and especially education unions, are somehow Bloomberg a deal: If a second- $500,000 a year as a Conference Program, Maria Design Consultant Louis Silverstein education advocates vehe- ahead with the implementa- meaningless scores that are useless in supporting student learn- at fault for the economic and education downturn we are in. in-command with strong edu- board member at Coca- Herrera’s name was misspelled. mently opposed Ms. Black’s tion of the Common Core CSA News (004-532) is published 10 times ing. We need to stop relying on these tests and releasing them They want the public to believe that anyone who belongs to a cation credentials were ap- Cola and IBM. After her Ms. Herrera, a high school a year for $35 per year per member by appointment and appealed to standards, the new evaluation because they paint an incomplete and often inaccurate picture union is being paid too much, given too many benefits and pointed, a waiver might be Principal, was on a panel dur- CSA, 16 Court St., Brooklyn, NY, 11241. Dr. Steiner but to no avail. systems and other initiatives appointment, she Second Class Postage paid at Brooklyn, NY of schools, school leaders, teachers, and children. Remember rewarded with big pensions that we didn’t earn. They want us granted. ing one of the workshops at the and additional mailing offices. POSTMAS- The Mayor accepted the Mayor Bloomberg defended recently introduced,” he said. resigned from both. TER: Send address changes to CSA NEWS, now, I’m not moving away from accountability. We have to be to accept the notion that a job is a job, regardless of whether or CSA Conference on Nov. 13. 16 Court St., Brooklyn, NY, 11241. accountable for what we do. But I think with all the money not you can support yourself and a family. They want public The Editor regrets the error. 4 CSA NEWS December 2010 December 2010 CSA NEWS 5

The Grievance Corner Bob Reich The Welfare Fund Douglas V. Hathaway, Ph.D. What Will More Investigative Staff Mean for CSA Members? IBM Partners with City ll around New York City and the You have the right to request that your state, we’re hearing about layoffs in The hiring freeze doesn’t tenure extension be reviewed at that time. Stores Must Honor the face of dire economic circum- 2) If you are applying for a position, an stances. But the news is almost preclude the DOE from open investigation obviously won’t reflect to Create Unique School heartwarming at the Department favorably on you. If you are applying for a Welfare Fund Vouchers Aof Education; several DOE offices have actu- new position and know of an open investiga- Mayor Michael Bloomberg recently announced Bottom line is that companies want to hiring new investigators. UESTION: I am a retired Principal and ally hired additional employees! tion, contact me immediately. I will contact a unique public/private partnership with IBM, the hire employees who have broad, advanced Qrecently needed a hearing aid. The Unfortunately, the DOE isn’t hiring staff the investigators and ask them to expedite NYC Department of Education and the City education, can learn quickly as they are Welfare Fund sent me my voucher and a list to educate children. The new hires are in the requested. Be certain that you make copies of the investigation. University of New York, that would culminate in a trained for specific jobs, and have a hunger of participating providers and I went to one Office of Equal Opportunity as well as the documents and obtain a receipt for any origi- 3) If you have applied for a job and are new grades 9-14 public school with an emphasis for continuous education and skill develop- of the participating stores. When I told the Office of Special Investigations; both have nal materials given. Do not interfere if the told you cannot be considered because of an on technology. Students could earn an associate’s ment. At IBM, we need deep thinkers who store the voucher was worth $600 and that increased the number of investigators they investigator wishes to speak to staff members. investigation that you didn’t know about, degree and be “first in line for a job at IBM.” CSA can help address business and societal prob- they would get the money from the corpo- employ. We suspect this will not bode well However, if the investigator asks to speak contact me immediately. Here, again, I will has been asked to consult in the development of lems and build solutions for a smarter planet. rate sponsor, the store insisted I pay the full for beleaguered school staff and our mem- with you, and I can’t emphasize this enough, attempt to expedite the scheduling of the this school. CSA President Ernest Logan sat down amount and submit the voucher myself. Can bers. please respond, “I’ll be happy to talk with investigative conference. with Stanley Litow, IBM Vice President of A number of our Principals are likely to they do this? It doesn’t make sense! I won’t However, I can remain optimistic. I sin- you but only with my union representative Corporate Citizenship and Corporate Affairs and be enthusiastic about this program. ANSWER: You are correct. Not only does President of the IBM International Foundation, to When will others open in NYC? cerely hope that more staff translates into present.” To summarize: it not make sense, they cannot refuse to find out more about this project. The first partnership school will open in hold my timely investigations, as well as the issuance No matter how confident you are that you a) You must cooperate with investigators. honor the voucher if they are a participat- NYC next September. It will have approxi- of reports and findings in a timely manner. did nothing wrong, you should always have b) You should be pleasant. ing provider. We have had several cases QUESTION: Can you tell our school leaders mately 100 ninth-grade students. Other With a breath for For many of our members who are exoner- the CSA by your side. c) You should insist on union representation. recently where members have submitted to more about this new school and why IBM is schools in the city and the nation will follow. ated by these investigators, the long wait for Contact me as soon as possible at us vouchers from participating providers more news is emotionally draining and counter [email protected] or call me at (718) 852- getting involved? We’re not interested in this being about voucher in Open investigations after paying the full amount. If this hap- productive, not to mention cruel. On a related note, I’d like to discuss the 3000, x 1023. A CSA staff member will meet ANSWER: The goal is to create the first of one school in one borough. We envision this pens again, please give us a call before pay- hand, you timely However, I won’t hold my breath for open investigation and how it may affect you with you and represent you at any confer- many new, innovative public schools span- school serving as a pilot site that can be ing the provider, and we will refer the store improvements in the system. And I sincerely if you’re looking for a new position. ences with investigators. ning grades 9-14 to create an effective bridge quickly expanded and integrated into already don’t pay a to the provider network. Stores join a net- reports hope you will read this column to the end so 1) If you are involved in an open investi- between high school and college. The idea is existing NYC schools and into other school work to benefit from having the network you will know what to do if an investigator gation, it can have an impact on whether you Bob Reich is the Director of the Grievance to provide students with the individualized systems around the nation. One way to retail store advertise for them. The network keeps a from the comes to your door, whether at school or at get tenure. If you signed an extension of pro- Department at CSA. He writes a monthly column instruction that will lead them to master the immediately expand the benefits of the proj- small amount from each voucher to help the full your home. bation during an investigation, and that for the CSA News on contract issues. You can skills and knowledge ect beyond a single school is to make almost DOE. pay for advertising and administrative Greet him or her and ask how you may investigation is then closed, you should con- send questions or concerns to him at bob@csa- they need either to grad- all of its curriculum, lesson plans and project expenses; the store you went to is trying to amount of assist. Provide any written documentation tact a CSA Field Director or me for guidance. nyc.org. uate with an associate’s work available online. This online curriculum degree that will allow will be integrated with professional develop- benefit from the advertising without pay- your them to secure an entry- ment supports, including pedagogical videos, ing the network. level position in the practical how-to’s, and teaching artifacts, to purchase. New Member Reception highly competitive IT support teacher instruction. UESTION: I am a newly appointed industry, or complete QAssistant Principal. I recently received a Letters their studies in a four- What will this curriculum look like? bill from the UFT Welfare Fund for prescription drugs I purchased on year higher education The goal is to align the high school cur- Sept. 5. Can you help me with this? institution. riculum with the common core standards ANSWER: Sure. When you change positions from teacher to a CSA Helps to Set the Record Thank You Sherri Tabachnick n Stanley Litow The broader goal is that are focused on preparing students for supervisory position, it takes the Department of Education a few Straight About NYC’s for Tenacity and Vigor in to develop a model for success in the workforce and college. weeks (hopefully) to switch your records from a teacher payroll line traditional high schools in NYC and around Naturally, we need to have a particular focus to a supervisory line. Big, Great High Schools Fighting for CSA Member the nation. As the first in a series of such on IT careers. This includes preparing stu- We receive a report from the DOE at the end of September, which schools, this one will demonstrate how K-12, dents with the skills that are absolutely essen- we use to determine eligibility. We have an agreement with the UFT To the Editor: I really enjoyed Yuridia To the Editor: I had surgery last higher education and the private sector can tial for success in IT and other fields – skills Welfare Fund to reimburse expenses incurred by our members in the Pena’s article about great large high February. Before the operation, I spoke work together to raise graduation rates, pre- like critical thinking, problem solving, com- transition from UFT to CSA. Please send us a copy of the UFT letter schools (October 2010 CSA News); thank with representatives at GHI to make sure pare greater numbers of students to fill good munications and working in teams. This isn’t and we will reimburse the UFT the amount we would have paid for you so much for including it in the that I would be reim- paying jobs in the IT field, and enable more just vocational training, but skills for an entry your medications. We will send you a copy of the check we send the October issue. This bursed. I was told on students to pursue post-secondary education. level IT job that can lead to a career, or the UFT, and you will be responsible for paying the UFT the difference article will serve as an three separate occa- It’s easy to understand why IBM is doing foundation for continuing to learn in a four- between the amount they billed and the amount we paid. This recip- important compo- sions that I would be. this. We need high-skilled workers. We also year college, particularly institutions that rocal agreement works for dental procedures as well, as well as for the nent in bringing the However, I was not believe that business has a huge stake in edu- have strong engineering, science and math (rare) case when a supervisor reverts to a teaching position, in which public perception reimbursed. cation and, as a result, has a responsibility to programs. case we bill the UFT for any benefits you used before the UFT restored back to reality when Having always ensure that our education system is graduat- We’d also integrate the STEM-focused cur- your coverage. it comes to the great been pro-union, I ing students with the skills to create and fill riculum with “real-life” experiences like struc- NYC public school contacted the CSA the jobs of the 21st century. Many of these tured industry and nonprofit internships, UESTION: I am a retired Principal getting medications through system. I would only FILE PHOTO Welfare Fund where John V. Natoli jobs will be STEM jobs: science, technology, team projects and mentoring and after-school the GHI-Enhanced Medicare Part D drug plan. I am now at the Howard Brenner Q request that you do a my plight reached engineering and mathematics. Of course, learning. Once they graduate with an associ- catastrophic level and paying 5 percent of drug costs. I read a recent follow-up article on the desk of Sherri Tabachnick, Assistant IBM’s greatest expertise and need have to do ate’s degree, these students will be “certified” column of yours on prescriptions and saw that I am eligible to have additional schools that deserve to be Administrator of the CSA Retiree Welfare with technology. in certain industry fields to be determined in these copayments reimbursed. How do I do that? highlighted such as Fort Hamilton and Fund. After Ms. Tabachnick ascertained We want the advice of school administra- collaboration with industry partners IBM will ANSWER: Please send us both pages of the Explanation of Francis Lewis high schools. that my claim was valid, she pursued the tors as we move forward. No school reform bring together. Benefits from Express Scripts/GHI. The first page identifies you and As someone who served as a teacher, issue with GHI with tenacity and vigor. effort can succeed without broad-based sup- shows that you are in the catastrophic level, but it does not itemize administrator, consultant and in numer- She would not take no for an answer. port. The engagement of experienced How can our school Principals and the drugs. The second page itemizes the drugs, but does not identify ous other education positions during a Finally, GHI’s “powers that be” relented – Principals and Assistant Principals is key. Assistant Principals become involved in who used them. We will then reimburse 100 percent of your co-pays 43-year career in public, private, charter Ms. Tabachnick wore them out! – and I the planning of this new school model? over the TrOOP (True-Out-Of-Pocket) limit of $4,550 with no and parochial schools, I can say with was paid. The Mayor said that students attending The bottom line: We need your help. We deductible to a maximum of $5,000. On Jan. 1, your Medicare benefit authority and experience that, for most Ms. Tabachnick has a true love for these schools will be "first in line for a know that there are many successful early col- resets and you will, once again, pay 25 percent of your drugs’ costs. students, the educational opportunities what she does best, which is to help the job at IBM." What types of jobs and lege initiatives in the city. We want to hear in schools such as the ones you high- membership of CSA in any way that she how many will be available? from our NYC Principals and Assistant lighted are the best available. Thank you can in her capacity as Assistant We can’t speculate on what our job needs Principals in terms of what they know of best again for doing your part to dispel the Administrator of our Welfare Fund. will be in 2017 when those students are ready practices – what works and what is a pitfall – Bloomberg-Klein-Gates educational myth. Go CSA – There is no other way! to enter the workforce, but they will certainly when starting a new school or improving any Pre-Retirement Workshops –HOWARD BRENNER –DR. JOHN V. NATOLI have the type of skills and education that school. make them highly attractive candidates for To that end, we’re inviting CSA members CSA will conduct workshops in January for those members con- Assistant Principal–Mathematics Principal, (retired); former District Chair YURIDIA PEÑA technology companies like IBM. IBM would with a strong interest in technology to a forum sidering retirement this winter. To reserve a seat, call the Welfare Fund Fort Hamilton High School (retired) P 33, Manhattan; P 224, Brooklyn n CSA held a reception for new union members on Oct. 21 at the organization’s be one of a consortia of companies that IBM we’ll hold in December to discuss what we at (718) 624-2600. All workshops begin promptly at 4 p.m. Brooklyn office. The officers addressed the audience, and staff introduced themselves. would call on to add to the number and should consider as we design and develop this Jan. 4: CSA Central Office, 16 Court St., 4th floor, Brooklyn Each member received a gift. Top, Executive Leadership Institute Executive Director nature of job opportunities. We’ll be inviting school. We will provide more details through Letters to the Editor may be submitted to Jan. 19: Bronx Educational Leadership Ctr., MS 127, 1560 Purdy St. Anne Silverstein, CSA News Editor at [email protected]. Eloise Messineo describes ELI’s professional development offerings. Bottom, Sondra other companies to join this initiative and the CSA as soon as possible. Jan. 25: Staten Island Educational Leadership Center, Michael J. They may also be sent to her at CSA, 16 Court St., Brooklyn NY 11241. Peeden, Assistant Director of Political Affairs, introduces herself to members and make a similar commitment to have these For details about the forum, contact CSA explains what the department does for members. Petrides Education Center, 715 Ocean Terrace, Building C, room 109. Letters may be edited or shortened because of space constraints. graduates be first in line for IT-related jobs in Communications Director Chiara Coletti at their companies after graduation. [email protected]. 6 CSA NEWS December 2010 December 2010 CSA NEWS 7

Reaching Out to District 31 Legislative Agenda Herman Merritt NATION n From left: CSA Field Director Labor ‘Tis the Season for Bipartisanship in Albany, Washington Kathleen Murphy; NEW YORK: Nicole Reid Christ- opher, the new NLRB Hearing lections have consequences, and tem but many of the things we did in the principal of PS 74, The National Labor Relations Board what the 2010 vote will mean in past no longer work in today’s society. We’re looking for new D-31; Mary Petrone, (NLRB) will hear the case of NYU terms of its impact on the average We’re doing things a little differently here graduate students whose collective Principal of PS 19, voter remains to be seen. Almost all volunteers to be Legislative at CSA as well in response to changing times. bargaining rights were removed by of the candidates CSA endorsed won We’re established a new volunteer position D-31, and CSA a Bush administration NLRB deci- Etheir races – only State Sen. Frank Padavan called the Legislative District Coordinator President Ernest sion. If the hearing restores bar- District Coordinators. was defeated in a close race – so we’re cau- (LDC) to be filled by those CSA members Logan. The meet- gaining rights, a new union repre- tiously optimistic that we have many state who want to take a more active role in the ing was sponsored sentation election would ensue. legislators who will be responsive to the According to the state’s mid-year financial political process. The LDC will be the face of by Presentation Most of the students support the needs of our city’s children as well as support- report released in early November, the state CSA for their local elected official. They will Systems of union but NYU refuses to recognize ive of working people. is facing a budget gap of $315 million in the meet with the legislator, attend their Midland, NJ. or bargain with them. The case Nationwide, we are experiencing a shift current fiscal year and a projected deficit of fundraisers and keep CSA in the forefront. could have implications for private universities across the nation. towards the right; the Democrats lost control $9 billion in fiscal 2012. This must become • • • ANNE SILVERSTEIN of the House, and have lost six seats in the the season of bipartisanship work to respon- (Workers Independent News) US Senate although they retain the majority. sively close these gaps. It’s also a time for s I start my new role as the Director of MINNESOTA: Education That, of course, does not bode well for pro- education advocates to cease battling over Political Affairs of this union, I urge you Logan to Members: Need for Vigilance Grows Daily gressive legislation for education or social ideologies and work together to develop an Ato join our PAC (Political Action Union Voted Down advocates issues, and we’re hoping that the federal gov- educational system that ensures students can Committee) and support the only vehicle SA President Ernest Logan spoke bargaining on transformation schools, the CSA President’s Club, the corps of High turnover is the norm in fast must stop ernment does not become stalemated as we meet the higher standards we have set for that can advocate for our interests in to 55 members at a joint meeting outstanding legal concerns including COPE/PAC members who give $8 or food restaurants and attempts to need bold leadership there to continue mak- them. Washington DC, Albany and City Hall. C of District 31 and Staten Island the union’s ongoing disputes with the more a pay period. Mr. Meehan said it organize workers are few. But one arguing ing progress as we pull out of the recession. We must look towards our colleagues in Collectively, we can be a voice of reason for and Brooklyn high schools. city over snow days and parking per- was imperative that the union keep attempt was underway at a chain of Although NYS’s Democratic party the National Association of Elementary schools and labor and work to do what’s right Mr. Logan spoke about the need to mits, and extended school day building politically active and that members be ten Jimmy John’s sandwich shops about retained control of statewide offices, the leg- School Principals and the National for the city’s children as well as for working be vigilant in today’s anti-union envi- permits. (This last issue has been involved. in the twin cities. In the end, 85 islature appears to be divided again. By the Association of Secondary School Principals, Americans and educators. ronment, and about dangerous forces resolved, thanks to CSA and member CSA Conference Chair Pierre voted to be represented by the Industrial Workers of the World and time you read this, we’ll probably know the and in our national union, the American at work that would take away hard- communication with the city.) Lehmuller also made a presentation at ideologies. 87 voted against joining the union makeup of the state Senate; at Thanksgiving, Federation of School Administrators to see Herman Merritt is the Director of Political Affairs won benefits and pensions from union Using Mr. Logan’s talk as a segue, the Oct. 18 meeting at the Bocelli out of 204 eligible workers. The candidates were still battling over three seats what is working across the country. at CSA. He writes a monthly column for the CSA members. CSA Field Director William Meehan Restaurant on Staten Island. Among his other topics were impact spoke about the importance of joining —ALS union reportedly may seek a new and party control was nearly evenly split Obviously, we must do things differently. We News. You may call him at (718) 852-3000 or election by petitioning the National among the 62 seats. used to have a formidable public school sys- email him at [email protected]. Labor Relations Board. (www.twincities.com) ‘Meeting the Challenges’ Briefs MICHIGAN: Safeguarding Schools Ray Garcia Investing In State as well as ongoing training for the tutors, GM, Ford and Chrysler may, with the Dominican Educators who are supervised by licensed teachers. help of tax breaks from the state, The result: The children average more When to Use ‘Gentler’ Restraining Devices infuse up to $2 billion into Michigan. Receive Honors than a year’s growth in reading, and the Reportedly, Ford’s tax credit would Three NYC Principals were honored tutors report gaining “patience, persist- he NYPD School Safety considered to be inade- provide new employment opportu- at a Sept. 22 dinner in the CCNY fac- ence, and creativity” in addition to their Division began a pilot quate given the circum- nities for auto workers and reopen ulty dining room hosted by three edu- paychecks. program on the stances. plants; Chrysler’s would include cation organiza- READ’s after-school programs run 1 use of alterna- When a child is taken plant upgrades and new shifts. GM, which had received a tax credit for tions. 1/2 hours a day, three or four days a tive restraining into custody by a Tdevices when it is nec- designated/trained school safety agent or uniformed development of a hybrid battery The honorees week, for 15-20 weeks (50 sessions in plant, will have its credit extended were: Salvador all). Tutoring takes place at elementary essary to take a child member of the service, the child will be removed to a into police custody. semi-private location (e.g., principal’s office, detention to allow for the addition of some Fernandez, of IS 52, schools in all five boroughs. Dates and 4,000 employees in Detroit. This program des- room, school security office, etc.). The NYPD will Manhattan, Laura times are specific to the school sites, but (Workers Independent News) Peynado Castro of READ programs usually start at or ignated and trained inform the child and other interested persons (e.g., par- the University shortly after 3:30 p.m. READ tutors earn precinct school safety ent, school official, legal guardian, etc.) of the reason for OHIO: Neighborhood $7.25 per hour. For more information, sergeants and school this action, unless physical resistance, flight or other factors Ms. Laura Peynado Middle School, visit the READ website at www.read- safety personnel with the render such procedure impractical. These safety officials Pressuring Workers YURIDIA PEÑA Castro and Dr. Sal proper use of Nylon/Velcro restrain- should also make sure that the child is not in a lot of distress Workers at a McDonald’s franchise n The 68th Annual Educational Conference of the Association of Fernandez. Manhattan, and nyc.org or contact Jaselis Mejia at jme- Assistant Principals was held Oct. 16 at the LaGuardia Marriott. Above: Dr. Jocelyn Santana [email protected] or call her at (646) ing devices. The safety of everyone and should take the time to calm the child with appropriate in Canton were feeling the pressure Margaret DiCarlo-Grub, Assistant Principal, of PS 112, Queens, in the of the Frances 867-6122. Safety involved is the predominant factor physical restraint if necessary. when they received a flyer with in determining if a child should be All school sergeants, school safety supervisors/agents their paychecks that threatened Vendor Hall. Left: CSA Director of Political Affairs (and former Principal) Perkins Academy, officers restrained, and if restrained, which assigned to elementary school sites and special education lower wages and benefits in the Herman Merritt received the AAP’s Friend of Education Award. Brooklyn, (who was unable to must use method is used. sites, are trained in the use of Nylon/Velcro restraining event that Republicans didn’t win in attend.) Free Programs for It is incumbent upon the safety devices and may use these alternative restraints. the mid-term elections. The matter The event was personnel to use a “reasonable is being investigated. Ohio law Schools from New York common • • • specifies that no corporation “shall sponsored by the belief” standard in determining the PENCIL Partnership print. . .handbills containing any Association of level of restraint. These personnel hen a child (including a mentally or physically dis- Road Runners sense threat, notice or information that if D o m i n i c a n - may consider the following factors abled and/or emotionally disturbed child) is taken any particular candidate is elected Jocelyn Santana Join the 400-plus NYC public schools approach in making this determination: the into police custody, a designated/trained school A m e r i c a n W or defeated, work in the establish- that take advantage of free program- child’s age or physical stature, type safety agent or training police officer/sergeant member of Supervisors and ment will cease in whole or in part, Administrators (ADASA), Hostos ming from New York Road Runners. of offense/nature of incident, service will keep the child under constant supervision, The organization’s suite of free programs or other threats expressed or Community College and Universidad whether the child has a history of regardless of the level of restraint utilized. implied. . . “(huffingtonpost.com) APEC in Santo Domingo. includes Mighty Milers, which gets emotional or behavioral difficulties, Issues relating to school discipline, including students thousands of kids moving during the the child’s demeanor and how well exhibiting emotional difficulties, are not generally a police MARYLAND: school day; the Mighty Milers Fitness he/she complies with instructions from school staff, parents matter, and fall under the purview of school officials. Many High School Students Fundraiser, a healthy alternative to and the NYPD. public schools have rooms that are designated for de-escalat- Contract Rejected cake/bake sales that raises big money Other factors include whether the child may cause immi- ing conflicts with students who are disruptive or are exhibit- Baltimore teachers have rejected a Need for After School for schools; and Young Runners, an nent harm to himself/herself or others, as well as any known ing emotional/behavioral difficulties. contract offer that some dubbed after-school running program. To enrich medical, mental, physical and/or emotional conditions that The NYPD will ordinarily defer to school officials for “innovative”. An elite corps stood to Tutoring Jobs your physical education program and could have ramifications. appropriate action during routine, non-emergency incidents. gain six-figure salaries but all The Reading Excellence and Discov- get your students fit and focused, con- While restraining devices generally are not required when If the NYPD is involved in taking a student into custody, the teachers’ pay would have been ery Foundation (READ) trains and pays tact Barton Adams, [email protected]. taking elementary school-aged children into custody, if it final decision, including the method of restraint, rests with linked to classroom performance. The details of how the evaluation high school students to tutor at-risk has been determined by on-scene personnel that the use of a the highest-ranking uniformed police supervisor present. would be carried out were report- kindergarten and first graders in basic restraining device would be appropriate, the use of a Additionally, should a law-enforcement member need to YURIDIA PEÑA edly too vague and this was the pri- reading skills. Founded in 1999, READ’s Nylon/Velcro device may be considered, in lieu of using take a child into police custody, nothing precludes an NYPD n PENCIL celebrated its Principal-for-a-Day program with a luncheon on Oct. 7 at 583 Park Keep up with events at mary reason for the contract’s mission is to help reduce the number of handcuffs. It should be noted that nothing would preclude or DOE official from using all reasonable time available to Avenue as well as events at schools citywide. From left: CSA Executive Director of Operations CSA. Visit the website at rejection. (www.baltimoresun.com) Anita Gomez-Palacio, CSA President Ernest Logan with Crystina Russell, Principal of Global low-income students demonstrating the NYPD personnel from utilizing handcuffs, if deemed calm the child. In all cases, NYPD staff will confer with a below-grade level reading skills. www.csa-nyc.org necessary for safety reasons. Handcuffs should only be used NYPD supervisor and notify the appropriate school official — COMPILED BY Technology Preparatory and Aaron Yaverski, CA Technologies. CHRISTINE ALTMAN The organization provides the initial on children after other alternative methods of restraint are prior to removing a child from a school. 8 CSA NEWS December 2010 December 2010 CSA NEWS / CONFERENCE REPORT 9

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION / DAY CARE

ELI Workshops Designed to Enhance Skills 46TH EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE 2010 The Executive Leadership Institute offers Day Care Directors and Assistant Directors a series of professional development workshops each school year. Coordinated by Noemi Angelettie-Wallace, the workshops are designed to sharpen a Day Care Director’s skills as well bring them new research on child development and teaching practices. ELI works with professors and consultants at the Center of Worker Education/CCNY as well as the Bank Street College of Education to put together workshops that provide a continuum of programming, although it is not required that participants enroll in the entire series. The workshops are made possible through a NY City Council grant. To register, contact Shareen Forsythe at (718) 852-3000.

The following workshops will all be The following workshops will all be given at the Brooklyn Education given at the Center of Worker Learning Center, CSA, 16 Court Street, Education/CCNY, 25 Broadway, 7th 4th floor, Brooklyn, NY floor, New York, NY

FRIDAY, JAN. 7 FRIDAY, FEB. 18 The Impact of Classroom Language 1) Aligning Standards with Develop- on Children’s Early Learning mentally Appropriate Instruction Presenter: Liege Motta, Staff Developer, Presenter: Sara Seiden, CWE Bank Street College of Education 2) Developing Leadership: Personal Dimensions of Leadership FRIDAY, MAY 13 Presenter: Vicki Garavuso, CCNY The Role of the Family in Assessing WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16 Young English Language Learners 1) Differentiated Instruction Presenter: Liege Motta Presenter: Elizabeth Matthews, CWE Building Teacher Capacity to Promote Children's Learning: A Collaborative 2) How to Create a Hands-On YURIDIA PEÑA Approach Workshop for Staff: Science in Early n The first in a series of six Day Care workshops that will be presented this year was held on Oct. Presenter: Vicki Garavuso, Program Head, Childhood Classrooms 28. (A second was held on Nov. 19.) Liege Motta, standing, a staff developer from the Bank Early Childhood Education, CCNY Presenter: Vicki Garavuso, CCNY Street College of Education led Developing a Quality Early Learning Program. Retirement n BARBARA BERG, who served for TravelDesk more than 45 years in the city’s GARY GOLDSTEIN schools, recently retired as an Education Administrator appointed to the central Cruising: Islands, Europe and Down Under Theme from the Conference Program office. A party was held for her on Oct. 14 The Jewels of Asia Aloha CSA! at El Caribe. March 29–April 12, 2011 Aug. 20-27, 2011 Join us in Hong Kong as we board the We fly to Honolulu and sail on the Workshops!Speeches!Exhibits!Gala! elegant Azamara Quest and sail to Hue beautiful Pride of America to Maui , Kauai, (Vietnam), Ho Chi Minh City and Ko and the "big island" of Hawaii including 25 Years Ago Samui, Bangkok and Singapore. This lux- Hilo and Kona, site of the Mauna Loa ury vessel holds only 650 passengers. Volcano. The program includes roundtrip Something for Everybody at the Annual Meeting (1985) RATES below include cruise, taxes, air from NY and all taxes. (See A month after the Board of and port charges. Air fare is not included www.ncl.com for details. Pre- and post- BY ANNE SILVERSTEIN business meeting and workshops. (More Education members ratified a as some of us will use points or purchase Honolulu packages available. Suite, sin- on the Retiree Chapter, Pages 17-18.) new contract with the city (by a tickets to suit individual preferences. gle, triple and family rates on request. SA President Ernest Logan’s annual At 9 a.m., all the registrants were invit- vote of 2,034 to 135), CSA’s Inside, $3,247.34 per person, double occu- RATES per person: Inside, $2,545.47; address at the CSA Conference was ed to attend a Plenary session in the negotiations with the city over pancy; window, $3,697.34 per person, window, $2,743.79; balcony, $3,001.62; met by a standing ovation; that Grand Ballroom featuring Dr. Joseph a Day Care contract came to an double occupancy; balcony, $4.497.34 per large balcony, $3,071.04. Optional insur- applause could have been for the Polisi, the President of The Juilliard end with a tenta- person, double occupancy. A $450 deposit ance is additional. Centire day as members repeatedly told CSA’s School, who spoke on the Conference tive settlement. per person holds your stateroom without ELEANOR GOLDSTEIN officers and staff, “This was the best theme Embracing Imagination, Fostering The contract penalty until 90 days prior to departure. n This past summer’s cruise in Alaska. Crossroads of Sicily Conference yet. Really!” The 46th Creativity. (Story, Page 12.) He was intro- called for a 17 Sept. 16-26, 2011 Educational Leadership Conference, held on duced to the podium by Scott Noppe- percent increase Featuring Palermo, Siracusa, and Royal Caribbean Cruise Nov. 13 at the Hilton NY, was a full day of Brandon, Executive Director of the over three years, Feb. 20-27, 2011 Taormina. Tour includes roundtrip airfare Australia/New Zealand professional development, vendor exhibits, Lincoln Center Institute, one of two major a longevity incre- This cruise offers incredible all-inclu- from NY, hotels, sightseeing, 15 meals Nov. 30-Dec. 12, 2011 panels and networking opportunities capped sponsors of the Conference this year; the ment of $200 for sive rates. We’ll fly to San Juan and board (nine breakfasts, one lunch, and five din- Celebrity's Century will depart from off by a gala luncheon and the CSA other major sponsor was the Center for five years of serv- Royal Caribbean’s Adventures of the Seas. ners), porterage and transfers. Sydney, on Nov. 30 and sail to Tasmania, President’s report to the members. Integrated Teacher Education (CITE). ice, an additional longevity Itinerary includes Barbados, St. Lucia, RATES: $3,365 per person double; sin- Milfor Sound, Doubtful Sound, Dusky The day provided CSA members with increment of $200 for those with Antigua and St. Maarten. gle, $3,845 and triple, $3,336. Sound, Dunedin, Christchurch, Welling- the opportunity to “reflect and refocus,” 10 years of service and a third Rates: From $1,098 per person plus ton, Napier, Tauranga, Bay of Islands and said Assistant Principal Andrea Greene. More coverage, p 10-15 longevity of $200 for those with $219 for taxes and fees. Auckland. You may return from Auckland Easy Cruising to San Juan “It’s a good time to network; there's won- 15 years of service. or book a post package (or depart earlier Oct. 23-29 or 31, 2011 derful professional development. It’s a won- fter the Plenary, the professional Service as a teacher was British Isles / Normandy for a stay in Sydney!) Visit the website We depart from Cape Liberty, derful union event,” said Principal Marlon development sessions began. This counted toward longevity pay- July 16-28, 2011 www.celebritycruises.com for descriptions (Bayonne) N.J. on Oct. 23 and sail to Hosang, who is a CSA District Chair. “We year, participants had a total of 19 ments. Day Care Directors with Embark on the Crown Princess (Princess of these ports of call and come along to Bermuda and Saint Thomas and arrive in have to support the union and its efforts,” workshops from which to choose: a doctorate in early childhood Cruises) from Southampton, England, and be pampered! San Juan on Oct. 29. You can fly home said Retiree Chapter member Mark Rossman. Anine in the morning and 10 in the after- education earned an additional sail to Normandy (with access to Paris), RATES: Inside, $1,769.77 per person; or spend two additional nights in vibrant The day began with the bustle of regis- noon. Topics ranged from effective use of $750 a year. The Welfare Fund Edinburgh, Inverness/Loch Ness, Belfast, window $2,069.77; verandah, $2,609.77; Puerto Rico. These all-inclusive cruise rates tration on the second floor promenade as technology in the classroom to implement- received money as well. Glasgow, Liverpool, Dublin, Cobh, and sky suite $4,039.77. Book by Dec. 30 and have never been more competitive! more than 1,400 CSA members and guests ing an intergenerational program into the The contract was retroactive Guernsey. Return to London on July 28. earn $150 on-board credit per verandah RATES per person: Inside, $591.50 picked up their goodie bags, studied the curriculum. In between the two sessions, to July 1, 1984 and expired on RATES per person: Inside, $2,072.19; and sky suite cabins. Window and inside (double); window, $701.51; balcony, program and visited the exhibit hall where participants also had plenty of time to visit June 30, 1987. The Day Care window, $2,672.19; balcony, $3,172.19; cabins earn $75 on board credit per cabin. $811.51; large balcony, $1291.51. Air fare coffee and a light breakfast were served. the exhibit hall as well as spend time with Negotiating Committee mini-suite, $3,822.19. Add tax of $140.77 per person. Rates do rates will become available in January. Others, members of the CSA President’s one another. approved the contract on Dec. Rates include all taxes but do not not include air fare. Luxury Club, headed into a reception featuring a Then it was time for the piece de resist- 9, 1985 and ballots were sent to include air fare. Suites, singles, triples, and suites/triples/quads and singles upon For more information about these itiner- full buffet and a greeting from Mr. Logan. ance: the gala luncheon in the Grand the membership, which also quads are available on request. Optional request. (Best air value 11 months prior to aries, contact Gary Goldstein by email at In a third floor ballroom, about 175 Ballroom where 1,355 guests were served RACHEL ELKIND gave the thumbs up. insurance is additional. departure.) [email protected]. retirees gathered where they, too, were lunch. (Editor’s Note: Not everyone stays for n Principal Nora Barnes of PS 250, Brooklyn, looked as if she were having fun treated to a sumptuous buffet prior to a Continued on Page 10 collecting materials in the Exhibit Hall. 10 CSA NEWS / CONFERENCE REPORT December 2010 December 2010 CSA NEWS / CONFERENCE REPORT 11

Speeches! Workshops! A Full Memorable Day at the Hilton Exhibits! Imagination the Theme, and Gala! Upbeat the Mood Continued from Page 9 lunch.) The dais guests were introduced by First Vice President Randi Herman, the Star Spangled Banner was played by IS 228’s jazz band (Brooklyn) and Executive Vice President Peter McNally introduced the speakers including Schools Chancellor Joel Klein, AFSA President Diann Woodard, state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, city Comptroller John Liu and Assemblywoman Cathy Nolan. Mr. Klein was gracious in his final address to CSA’s membership – he announced his resigna- tion just days before – and praised Mr. Logan’s leadership. “There were things we disagreed upon, things we disagreed strongly on and lots of things we worked together on, but there were two things about Ernie that always stand out,” said Mr. Klein. “I’m deeply convinced that, for him, it’s about the children. The dis- agreements we had were not about power and they were not about politics. They were about what was right for the children. I think that’s rare and special and I admire it.” Mr. DiNapoli, who recently won a close race to be elected Comptroller, thanked CSA for its “wonderful support during this very challenging election cycle … I’m living testimony that your

political action makes a difference.” He praised CSA’s in-service members for their dedication to the city’s students and said he would stand behind the organization’s retirees. “Even during tough times, the solution is not to attack the pensions of people who have worked hard to earn those benefits. We all need to stand together,” Mr. DiNapoli said. Mr. Logan delivered a speech denouncing an over-emphasis on testing as being counter-pro- ductive to nurturing the creative minds the nation will need. He also decried the national trend that has politicians and business people bashing unions and benefits that working Americans fought to gain over many years. His speech brought the audience to its feet several times. (Read Mr. Logan’s remarks on Page 2-3.) After his speech, Mr. Logan presented Congresswoman Yvette Clarke with CSA’s Leadership in Government Award. In accepting her award, she, in turn, thanked CSA for giving her a “meaningful award”. n The Grand Ballroom was lit up by these super banners that showed the four CSA members “I am very happy to have this partnership who graced the union’s annual subway Welcome-Back-to-School advertising campaign. From with you and your leadership because we’re left: Moses Ojeda, Elena Jaffe, Hiroyuki Yamada and Lydia Bassett Tyner. At the podium, CSA going to have to make some very important President Ernest Logan. decisions.I’m not crazy about competitions in n Outgoing Schools Chancellor Joel Klein and CSA President education. When you have winners and losers Ernest Logan have disagreed on many issues over the course in education, it does not make for a wholesome n Top: Registration is the first stop for Conference guests. n CSA President Ernest Logan’s speech brought guests on environment in which children learn,” Ms. of Mr. Klein’s eight-year tenure, but Mr. Klein and Mr. Logan CSA members received gifts, early birds entered a raffle their feet several times. Mr. Logan challenged the current Clarke said. agree it was not personal. Here they seem to be enjoying for a flat-screen TV and President Club members focus on testing to the exclusion of many other classroom After her speech, lunch was served and Mr. each other’s company at the dais reception before the lunch. attended a breakfast. Middle: Participants line up to enter activities; he also attacked Wall Street for causing the cur- McNally oversaw the selection of raffle winners. rent economic hardship and then blaming unions and mid- (See Page 15 for winners). And then, it was time the Grand Ballroom for lunch. Bottom: Charles Amundson, Cluster 2 Leader. dle-class workers’ benefits. to go home as the curtain dropped on another PHOTOS BY RACHEL ELKIND, ANTOINETTE ISABLE, successful Conference. YURIDIA PEÑA and CHRISTINE ALTMAN 12 CSA NEWS / CONFERENCE REPORT December 2010 December 2010 CSA NEWS / CONFERENCE REPORT 13 Embracing Arts in the Curriculum President’s Club Members’ Breakfast

“Some of our best young, creative “The arts have been consistently “You, as leaders of New York City thinkers may be squeezed out of the sys- maligned … and have even been rele- schools have the ability to help bring the tem in favor of those who are trained to gated to lesser positions in educational sys- arts to the general curriculum.” take tests, not educated to develop cre- tems on the primary and secondary levels.” ative vision.” Keynoter Joseph Polisi Gave the Plenary Address

BY YURIDIA PEÑA believes helps individuals become effec- was against too many Athenians becom- teachers but DOE evaluators refused to tive leaders in any work environment. ing professional musicians. observe those classes during the quality eynote speaker Joseph W. Polisi Being creative is also necessary in the Dr. Polisi said that a well-rounded arts review process. Other Principals con- took on the city’s education study of specialized subjects like engi- curriculum nurtures the intellect. “You as curred, saying the arts are constantly establishment during his neering, business and management. Dr. leaders of NYC schools have the ability overlooked during the evaluation period. address at the Conference, Polisi gave credit to innovative thinkers to help bring the arts to the general cur- Dr. Polisi said: “The arts are a power- YURIDIA PEÑA bashing the emphasis on test- who created devices like the iPad. riculum,” he said. ful vehicle for the betterment of our n Wanda Soto and Christopher Anest enjoy a moment at the President’s Club Breakfast first thing Conference morning. King at the expense of creative thinking; However, conventional thinking rejects Underfunded public schools have lives and our world and that they Dr. Polisi urged school administrators to any knowledge of the fine arts as a cata- always faced obstacles in sponsoring the should be included in every discussion incorporate a rigorous arts curriculum in lyst to becoming a better citizen. This has arts, so it is no surprise that during the that focuses on education and the study the classroom. been a problem through the centuries, he current economic climate, arts education of quality of life.” BY ANNE SILVERSTEIN (PAC). CSA President Logan greeted the guests, and politically active as well. “Providing this to CSA is a “As a result of an increased emphasis explained. is falling by the wayside. Furthermore, an later said, “We, obviously, couldn’t do all that we do in way members can truly have an impact on their on testing, some of our best young, cre- “The arts have been consistently emphasis on testing has caused the arts ach year, CSA President’s Club members are the political sphere without our PAC contributors. This futures. It’s not often you can see results, but we do ative thinkers may be squeezed out of the maligned by some and have even been to lose relevance to the point of elimina- treated to a special reception at the CSA is a way to thank our top supporters each year.” with this.” system in favor of those who are trained relegated to lesser positions in educa- tion. Progress Reports, Quality Reviews, Conference. This year, CSA provided a full The President’s Club was started a few years ago to CSA members who donate $8 or more a pay period to take tests, not educated to develop cre- tional systems on the primary and sec- tests and other evaluations simply do not breakfast for CSA members who provide spe- encourage supporters to donate more money. Very to PAC become President’s Club members. Retiree ative vision,” said Dr. Polisi, who is the ondary levels,” he said. Historically, give much credence to the arts. cial support to the Political Action Committee often, these supporters are those who are often more Chapter members pay $8 a month. President of The Juilliard School and an emblematic figures like Russian writer Dr. Polisi asked for comments from E accomplished musician. Leo Tolstoy criticized conservatory train- the audience during his presentation. A creative vision is what Dr. Polisi ing in the late 19th century, and Aristotle One Principal reported having three art

Books! Games! Food! School Freebies! Meeting ach year, the Exhibit Hall is with- out doubt one of the highlights of the Conference, according to members. Here participants can and learn about cutting-edge technol- Eogy designed for the classroom and can stock up on all kinds of teaching ideas. Greeting More than 135 vendors attended the Conference this year. Said CSA Conference uilt into the Conference is Chair Pierre Lehmuller, “They come to plenty of time to socialize with make a sale, of course, but many of them friends and colleagues, although also come to show support for the union the networking periods are n The Exhibit Halls were crowded all day as participants circulated. and for our members. And we appreciate strategically placed as breaks RACHEL ELKIND that support.” betweenB various sessions and panels. The gala luncheon also allows for an opportu- nity to talk in between courses. Members tell CSA that they often feel isolated in their schools, and that the Conference provides them with a chance to spend time with their peers, becoming re-energized by the conversations and their colleagues’ enthusiasm. The Conference also allows a less for- mal opportunity for CSA’s officers to speak with members at the receptions that take place throughout the day, as well as to chat with Conference guests. ANTOINETTE SABLE n Top: Ernest Logan and UFT President MichaelRACHEL Mulgrew ELKIND n Top: The dais reception just before the gala luncheon quietly spoke at the dais reception. Bottom: At the Retiree where politicians and CSA officers mixed. Below: Chapter breakfast, Barbara Panzer and Ron Birkenblitt. n So many sights, sounds and even tastes of chocolates! The vendors’ exhibits offered a wealth of educational materials including games, museum exhibits, computers and robotics. Members Thomas Mc Ginley and Stephen Appea share a laugh over an iPad. 14 CSA NEWS / CONFERENCE REPORT December 2010 December 2010 CSA NEWS / CONFERENCE REPORT 15 Workshops for Every Administrator Members’ Enthusiastic Response Standing Room “Ernie had a great “It’s very laid back message and the but professional. Only At Some chance to share with I learned information Venues my colleagues in the about TRS and TDA profession is always a that I didn't know BY ANNE SILVERSTEIN wonderful thing.” before.” rofessional development work- shops are offered to help mem- JOSEPH LISA, PRINCIPAL, JESSICA TORRES, ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL bers complete their PD require- IS 61, BROOKLYN MS 327, BRONX ment as well as to provide them with food for thought and to helpP them recharge their batteries for the “Today gave me an “It’s a good time to rest of the school year. Workshop topics are selected from a opportunity to reflect network, there's slew of proposals submitted to CSA. A committee narrows down the selections and refocus. It was wonderful profes- to offer a diverse range of topics that they invigorating to be in sional development. believe will interest members. At the end ANTOINETTE ISABLE n of each workshop, participants are asked Principal Ben Shuldiner during his workshop entitled Making the a room of passionate, Its a wonderful to appraise the workshop, and feedback is Most of the Professional Development You Provide at Your School. union event.” sent back to the presenters. motivated people. ” ZINA COOPER-WILLIAMS, ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL, MARLON HOSANG, PRINCIPAL, PS 284, BROOKLYN PS 64, MANHATTAN n Ron Thorpe, Vice President and DirectorRACHEL of Education ELKIND at WNET/13 was on a panel that explored imagination. “The importance of “I'm enjoying myself coming to a meeting because I get to see like this is the people I haven't seen camaraderie. We have in awhile, especially to support the union people I met in my and its efforts.” leadership program.” MARK ROSSMAN, RETIRED SUPERVISOR, BRANDON MUCINO, ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL SPECIAL EDUCATION, BRONX PS 83, BRONX

ANTOINETTE ISABLE n Left: Participants packed Rescuing Failing Readers Using Your Current School Staff. Right: Talmadge Eyre of Imagine Learning presented a “This is my 10th “I'm stimulated by the workshop on the use of technology to accelerate literacy, which was well received by participants. conference! My topics and by seeing favorite thing is the colleagues I haven't CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHT opportunity to share seen in a while. I with other enjoyed hearing In Era of Accountability, What of the Arts? professionals.” Dr. Polisi speak. “ ENID MALDONADO, ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL DENISE DICARLO, PRINCIPAL, BY CHIARA COLETTI from everywhere – classroom teachers, PS 152, QUEENS GRAMERCY ARTS HIGH SCHOOL, visiting artists, F-status teachers who MANHATTAN The CSA News has chosen to highlight excel at an art, parents and all school one of the 19 workshops offered at the leaders. Programs in dance, music and Conference to give members who couldn’t visual arts had to be carried through an be with us a taste of what they missed. In extended day and after-school pro- keeping with this year’s conference theme, grams and interwoven into other sub- iPads, Night-at-the-Hilton and a Flat-Screen TV Embracing Imagination, Fostering jects during the conventional school The raffle at the end of the Conference lunch is always exciting. Other winners included: Olivia Francis Webber, who won a Dell laptop and Adobe Creativity, we’ve chosen a workshop that day. This took scheduling ingenuity, Veronica Assent won the “early bird” prize ponsored by CITE, one of the two major software; Jose Garcia, Ariana M. Sanquiche and Luz Velazquez each won an iPod; Teri focused on arts education. close partnerships with artists and sponsors – a 40-inch flat-screen TV. Gilberto Garcia won the iPad sponsored by CSA’s Mascioli, Jermaine J. Garden, Shelanthia Griffiths, Louis Cooper, Mercy Rivera, and teachers, and at least two professional Social Media Team. Esther M. Reyes won the night at the Hilton. Lincoln Center Dorothy Morris won weekend getaways or school trips to Sesame Place; Sharon George ith the irrepressible enthu- development retreats a year. Institute, the Conference’s other major sponsor, provided two Imagination packages received a voucher from Read Naturally; Crystal Jones won a CD player; Nikki Shuler siasm of an undergraduate, “We always had an arts program,” filled with learning tools and software, which were won by Clemente Lopes and Ken won a Tiffany’s gift card; Raquel Smith won a wireless headphone; and Retiree Roberta Ramon Gonzalez seized said Mr. Gonzalez, “ but it wasn’t good. Peterson. Klammer received two tickets to a concert at Lincoln Center. the imagination of the We had to transform it. That took ANTOINETTE ISABLE tightly-packed audience of years … We made mistakes. We had to n Ramon Gonzalez’s personality lit up the room during the session. Wmostly Assistant Principals at the work- keep changing things.” shop entitled: Is There Time and Space for It took support, too. As he beat the the Arts? The young Principal from MS bushes for hidden grants, which he says served middle school students progress entwined. 223 in the South Bronx described the are plentiful if you develop the knack emotionally and academically by way of With the SASI grant and a crazy quilt hard work and intricate strategizing that for unearthing them, he partnered with the arts. of other funding, MS 223 could be mis- went into creating a comprehensive arts NYC’s Center for Arts Education (CAE). “If a strong arts program is good taken for a feeder for La Guardia High program in his technology-based school Leading the workshop was CAE’s enough for the rich kids,” said Carol School.Yet, it is still an outstanding during an era of budget cuts, perform- Executive Director Richard Kessler. Fineberg, who relishes the notion of technology school. For the skeptics ance reviews, school closures and exces- Answering questions along with Mr. coaching as many schools as possible who have begun to wonder if the ideal sive standardized tests. Gonzalez was Carol Fineberg, an educa- through the SASI process, “then it’s of an arts and science education is a Through a video followed by candid tional consultant who helped MS 223 good enough for the poor kids.” thing of the past, Ramon Gonzalez is answers to exceptionally eager ques- navigate the School Arts Support She explained that in SASI schools, eager to point out that his multi-dimen- tions, Mr. Gonzalez demonstrated how Initiative (SASI), a CAE school-based there is always an arts coach and that is sional students led MS 223 – alone in to introduce a genuine arts program grant program – funded in part by U.S. usually the literacy coach because arts New York State – to win the 2010 Intel n Education Administrator Jose Garcia with n Olivia Francis Webber, right, with JoAnn n Raquel Smith won wireless headphones. n Gilberto Garcia with his iPad. into any school. He had to enlist artists DOE – that was designed to help under- and literacy are so intrinsically School of Distinction Award. his brand-new iPod. Aaronson from Dell. 16 CSA NEWS December 2010 December 2010 CSA NEWS / RETIREES 17

NATION Blackboard Award Presented to Three Supervisors

BY ANNE SILVERSTEIN n MS 368, Hamilton Education Heights, Manhattan; Manhattan Media’s annual Blackboard n MS 243, The Center C h a p t e r NEVADA: Awards were held on Nov. 1 at Fordham School, Manhattan; University Law School. CSA was among the n New Voices School Good Eating Habits event sponsors. of Academic and The Fresh Fruits and Vegetable Three supervisors received individual Creative Arts, Brook- RETIREE Program in Washoe County began awards for their leadership at their schools. lyn; CHAIR’S MESSAGE in 2002 as a way to boost consump- n Genevieve Stanislaus, Principal of Life n Fiorello H. La- tion and help farmers. Snack-size Science Secondary School, Manhattan; Guardia High School servings of apricots, grapes, squash Neil Lefkowitz n Lily Woo, Principal of PS 130, of Music & Art and Randi Damesek Genevieve Stanislaus Lily Woo and grapefruit were given to school- Manhattan; and Performing Arts, Man- children. 21 elementary schools n Randi Damesek, Assistant Principal of hattan; n now participate, and the program Brooklyn School of Inquiry; An Annual Gathering Stuyvesant High School, Manhattan. n has began introducing children to The Urban Assembly New York Harbor n NY French American Charter School, foods they might not otherwise try. Blackboard Awards in a number of cate- School, Governors Island, Manhattan; Manhattan; for Business and Fun Along with the snacks come fun gories were also presented to schools. The n PS 276, Battery Park City School, n Frank McCourt High School, Manhattan; awards ranged from outstanding elemen- facts and information. (RGJ.com) Manhattan; n PS 75, Emily Dickinson School, etiree Chapter participation contin- tary school to new and noteworthy schools. n PS 151, Yorkville Community School, Manhattan; ues to increase at the annual CSA The public schools that received awards are: Manhattan; n MS 376, NYC iSchool, Manhattan; and DELAWARE: Educational Leadership Conference n PS 40, the Augustus Saint-Gaudens n PS 267, Manhattan; n High School for Math, Science and R as members find out how much fun this Sweeping Changes Elementary School, Manhattan; n PS 452, Manhattan; Engineering at City College, Manhattan. Gov. Jack Markell has been touring day is. I am happy to report that about 200 the state, meeting with parents, of our members attended the Nov. 13 teachers, students and administra- DOE Employees: If you haven’t returned this form yet, please do so today! event, an increase from last year’s assem- tors to discuss some of the changes blage, and 175 stayed for lunch. Our to be implemented in the Delaware morning breakfast was especially success- schools with the $119 million in THE CSA COMPENSATION ACCRUAL FUND ful; we even had to set up two tables for Federal funds from Race to the Top. the overflow! Reforms will include new standard- ENROLLMENT, SIGNATURE AND BENEFICIARY FORM During our general membership meet- ized tests and more accountability ing, we honored State Senator Diane for teachers and schools. The state (Send form to the Fund’s Administrator: PRG, 276 Fifth Ave., Suite 1011, NY, NY 10001.) Savino: Savino, who represents Staten Island and is adopting “Common Core Standards” based on national and parts of Brooklyn. Ms. Savino, whose labor State background is apparent in everything she international curricula, the most RACHEL ELKIND says, clearly understands the need to pro- challenging part of the reforms budget n The Trianon Ballroom: Camaraderie, collegiality and friendship were abundant at the Retiree Chapter’s meeting. tect retirees during the current national according to Markell. (DoverPost) At far right: the former Superintendent of District 25 Joan Kenny. should attack on union health benefits and LOUISIANA: not be defined pension programs. Adding Academics In her address to our membership, Ms. balanced Savino emphasized the fact that over the The New Orleans Center for years, municipal employees gave up salary Splendid Time Was Had Creative Arts is gearing up to offer on retirees’ increases to pay for welfare fund benefits. an academic curriculum in addition She also said that under no circumstances to its famed arts program next fall. backs. should retirees be sacrificed to balance Students currently attend another By Conference Attendees state or city budgets. school for half a day to complete CSA President Ernest Logan thanked their academic requirements. The Ms. Savino for her work in the legislature BY CHRISTINE ALTMAN and praised Sen. Savino as a “fighter for worker program will be open to 60 incom- rights, protection of benefits and a prevailing ing 9th graders and will expand by and her support for organized labor. At the gala luncheon, we heard state Comptroller Thomas The retirees came out en masse to CSA’s 46th wage.” a grade level each year. Instruction Educational Leadership Conference on Nov. 13 – Mr. Brodsky touched on the number of new will be highly individualized com- DiNapoli thank CSA for the union’s help in winning his race. Mr. DiNapoli won a close election, squeaking by with 50 percent of so much so that two additional tables were rolled retirees who are choosing to join the Retiree pared to other public schools, with out to accommodate the unregistered guests. Chapter. He said it is the organization’s mission students progressing at their own the vote, and he credited CSA, in part, for his victory. Last year, About 200 retirees listened to NYS Sen. Diane and his, as the new Director, to continue with and pace and taking less common offer- the CSA Retiree Chapter honored Mr. DiNapoli at the Conference Savino speak about the expand upon the personal service with which ings such as Chinese. (nola.com) for his work as the state’s chief fiscal officer and his support of public education. current political climate, members are provided. which includes a growing Three workshops followed the breakfast: MASSACHUSETTS: It is important for CSA to support politicians who understand the sacrifices we made in the 1970s when the city was in financial antagonism toward 1) Museum for African Art representatives dis- Student Card difficulty, and who understand our needs today. These lawmakers unions and the benefits cussed the museum, which opens next fall. Voluteer A new student card is being piloted, are sensitive to the fact that many of our older, more vulnerable that retirees have fought opportunities will be possible for RC members. the BostONE card, to allow students retirees are not living in the lap of luxury but rather are making so hard to win. The 2) A workshop entitled Legislative Update and to ride the MBTA, withdraw books tough decisions on their modest pensions. Retiree Chapter presented Report, featuring City Councilwoman Debi Rose, from city libraries, play sports, attend the Senator with an award who discussed the potential impact of local legis- after-school programs at community • • • for her work in support of lation on retirees and how members can effectively centers and buy school meals. The labor and education. (For influence the shape of new laws. RC Legislative f you missed the Conference, you can get a taste of whatit’s n Larry Edwards card can be used to take attendance more on Ms. Savino’s Liaison Dee-Dee Goidel and Staten Island Legislative like by viewing the CSA Conference video. The enjoys a moment. and could, eventually, also serve as a remarks, see story, Page 18.) Coordinator Pat DeMeo planned the session. Communications Department showed it to us at our last debit card. Critics are emphasizing I RC Chair Neil 3) CSA Welfare Fund Administrator Douglas V. Executive Board meeting; it includes brief interviews of in-service the need for privacy protections so Lefkowitz, CSA President Ernest Logan, and newly Hathaway, Ph.D. addressed retirees about changes that the data that’s tracked cannot members and retirees including Morty Panzer, Joseph Petrella and appointed RC Director Mark Brodsky also spoke. in the health care insurance industry and its impact be abused or used for less educa- Mark Rossman. It’s on the website under CSA Members/CSA Mr. Lefkowitz said that he’s continually amazed on Retiree Chapter members. tional purposes. (boston.com) Video Gallery. (I hope it induces a number of you to come to our to see how the Retiree Chapter has next big gathering.) become a national organization. He CALIFORNIA: Speaking of the website, new this November is a photo gallery encouraged members to continue mak- Slow Reading just for us. The Communications Department added this feature, ing contributions to PAC (Political using the Conference as a springboard. That’s under Retiree A slow-reading movement is taking Action Committee), adding that these hold with educators who believe Chapter/Retiree Photo Gallery. (www.csa-nyc.org) funds provide a gateway to those who that the Internet is making us intel- I look forward to my upcoming visits to our Regional Units in are making decisions that affect retirees’ lectually shallow. Some feel that stu- California and Arizona. During January, Mr. Logan and I will visit lives and who have the potential to dents are losing the art of reading our east and west coast Florida Units, reporting to them and ask- become allies. This year, he added, the for enjoyment and are literally rac- ing for support of our legislative goals. Chapter plans to focus more of its ing through material. The move- On behalf of the Chapter’s officers – Bill Pinkett, Aaron Stern, attention on working with members of ment is focused on enhancing pleas- Gayle Lockett and Joe Rosenberg – I wish you happy and healthy the City Council. ure and discovery. The Slow Book holidays and a joyous New Year. Mr. Logan also spoke about the Movement was officially founded retirees’ strength. “The retirees have last year in Lebanon Springs, NY, by become my army,” said Mr. Logan, “My novelist I. Alexander Alchowski. secret army.” He said that when he asks (Christian Science Monitor) them to attend events, they always turn — COMPILED BY out in force; he thanked retirees for YURIDIA PEÑA CHRISTINE ALTMAN being actively involved in their union n Retiree Chapter members Susan Serrano and Michael Fisher 18 CSA NEWS / RETIREES December 2010 December 2010 CSA NEWS / RETIREES 19 Savino to Retirees: ‘Now Is the RC Regional Units LONG ISLAND Logan speak and answer questions. RC GEORGIA ROCKLAND, ORANGE, BERGEN Chair Neil Lefkowitz and new RC Director The October Unit membership meet- Mark Brodsky also came. The next meet- At our Oct. 19 meeting, RC Chair Neil The new Retiree Chapter Director Mark ing was a blast. Seventy-five people ing will take place on March 28, 2011. Lefkowitz and Outreach Coordinator Felice Brodsky was on hand to greet us at our Time to Reeducate People’ ICTOR AVENS attended and heard CSA President Ernest –V R Hannah spoke, and we heard about serv- Oct. 26 meeting as was Neil Lefkowitz, RC ices available to seniors in the Atlanta area Chair. Jay Cohen of our Unit’s Executive from a Clayton County representative. Gail Board presented material on additional A Full House in Brooklyn Woodruff, Social/Cultural Coordinator, benefits from our Welfare Fund, TRS and spoke about upcoming activities. Need other sources. RC Outreach Coordinators info? Contact me at (770) 693-2399. Felice Hannah discussed changes to health –GEORGIA HARRISON care as a result of the new federal law as well as how to get reimbursed for Medicare Part B. –BART BOOKMAN

SUNCOAST, FL 2011 meetings: noon on Jan. 11 and March 3, at Marie's Italian Kitchen. MICHAEL EBENSTEIN Additional information will be/has been n About 90 retirees attended the Brooklyn Regional Meeting at St. Francis College. mailed to members. Questions? Call me (941) 383-0408. –MICHAEL NEMOYTIN Parsing the Maze of Medicare NEW JERSEY The Maze of Medicare was the topic Ebenstein reported on the Cultural and JUDITH BENNETT for the Brooklyn Regional Unit meet- Educational Committee’s spring pro- n At Georgia’s Oct. 19 meeting: from left, Neil Felice Hannah, Mark Brodsky and Neil ing held Nov. 9 at St. Francis College. gram. I discussed the recent election Lefkowitz, Carleen Cumberbatch, Mary Byrd, Lefkowitz spoke at our Nov. 10 meeting. Judith Francis of the NYC Department results and the potential pitfalls of a Georgia Harrison and Felice Hannah. We’re updating our database and need of Labor Relations gave an overview of Constitutional Convention in the state, your current contact information. Send Medicare and answered questions. RC which could cause hardships for retirees. PALM BEACH to Howard Tilis at [email protected]. Outreach Coordinator Felice Hannah, Brooklyn Regional Leader Ron Jones Contact Robyn Small at rob503@opton- Jan. 10, 2011 – Health/Welfare provided an array of materials and a had an idea this time: a semi-planned line.net for information about our trips to Meeting, 1 p.m. at the South County Civic step-by-step description of how to lunch at a local eatery after Unit meet- the Princeton Art Museum and the Center. Speakers include CSA President apply for Medicare. She also gave ings. So, we walked to a nearby restau- Grounds For Sculpture. Ernest Logan, Welfare Fund Administrator TEPHEN ORTER meaning to the various Medicare Parts, rant and ate together. What a success! –S P Douglas V. Hathaway and RC Chair Neil A through D. CSA President Ernest Logan joined us Lefkowitz. Feb. 17, Health and Welfare In other business, the RC Director as the tables buzzed with many topics LOWER HUDSON VALLEY YURIDIA PEÑA RACHEL ELKIND Meeting, 10 a.m., at Benvenuto's Catering, n Above, state Sen. Diane Savino thanked the Retiree Chapter for selecting her as this year’s n RC Chair Neil Lefkowitz introduced CSA President Ernest Mark Brodsky, introduced himself, RC from the Nov. 2 election to hilarious Boynton Beach. Feb. 17, Luncheon, noon, The Executive Board met in November Chair Neil Lefkowitz spoke about how old Board of Education stories. honoree. Left, Retiree Chapter Director Mark Brodsky Logan, who in turn introduced Sen. Savino. Benvenuto's. to review possible speakers for spring meet- unions are under attack, and Michael —DEE-DEE GOIDEL ings. We may also hold a wine and cheese –ROSE BENNETT reception for all members and prospective BY CHRISTINE ALTMAN from management teams that claim new members in April. Join our Unit! retirement benefits as they’re designed In Memoriam Contact me at [email protected] he Retiree Chapter honored NYS now are no longer affordable. –JOHN GENTILE Sen. Diane Savino at its breakfast “You must engage active members n PAUL ANISH, 81, a former Assistant UFT recently recognized his 50 years of n DR. MARILYN M. VARADI, 68, of Floral Park, QUEENS T meeting at the CSA Conference by and make sure they don’t give away Principal, died on May 13. He retired in 1987 membership during its celebration of that Queens, a former Supervisor of Psycholo- presenting her with an award in recog- what you’ve worked so hard for,” she from Seth Low Junior High School, D-21, anniversary. A World War II veteran, he gists in Districts 29 and We’ll hold a number of events in 2011 nition of her support and dedication to said, adding that if these benefits are Brooklyn, where he headed the music enlisted in the Army Air Corps (at age 17) 26, died on Sept. 1 including a tour of the Louis Armstrong NYC’s retired school leaders. lost during this tough era, it could take department. Condolences may be sent to and flew more than 20 bombing missions after a six-year battle House Museum on March 16 and a mati- Ms. Savino, who represents parts of years to restore them. his wife, Pearl, at 2388 Ocean Ave., Brooklyn, over Germany. Donations may be made to with ovarian cancer. nee at the Queens Theatre in the Park in Staten Island and Brooklyn, discussed During her remarks, Ms. Savino NY 11229. the Fred Koury Memorial Scholarship Fund Dr. Varadi took charge April at special reduced rates. We also plan the difficult times the city and nation relayed a personal anecdote that links at City-As-School, 16 Clarkson St., New York, of her own treatment a tour of Citi Field in the spring and a n FRED KOURY, 87, the co-founder and long- face saying that this is not an easy time her to the Retiree Chapter via the NY 10014. and in doing so, estab- general membership meeting in May. time Principal of City-As-School, died on July for working people. “There are outright Chapter’s Treasurer Bill Pinkett. She lished a foundation, Need information? Contact me at 7. A graduate of Syracuse University with a n MURRAY OSTRIN, 82, of Highland Park, NJ, assaults on working people,” she said, spoke warmly about his wife, the late the Varadi Ovarian [email protected]. degree in social work, he died on June 12. Mr. Ostrin retired in August and “no counterbalance.” Councilwoman Mary Pinkett, who, she Initiative for Cancer then received his mas- 1985 as a supervisor at Martin Van Buren –LEN STERMAN She added that the media seems to said, served as a mentor to her. When High School. Mr. Ostrin also served as the n Marilyn Varadi Education. VOICE rais- ter’s degree in educa- es money for research be ignoring those who speak in support she met Mrs. Pinkett many years ago, tion from Teachers President of the Board of the Solomon STATEN ISLAND of workers and cautioned that it’s a dan- Ms. Pinkett, who was the first black City Schecter School of Queens. Condolences and education. Contributions may be made College. He began his We will host our holiday gala on Dec. gerous situation as the public is only Councilwoman, told her that it is not may be sent to his wife, Gloria, at 221 to VOICE/NYU School of Medicine, Dr. John 40-year career as a NYC 6 at the Hilton Garden Inn at noon. If you hearing one side of the issue. enough to be the first; you must make Riverview Ave., Highland Park, NJ, 08904. Curtin, 160 E. 34th St., NY, NY 10017 or to the public school educator Mount Sinai School of Medicine/VOICE, Dr. haven’t received a flyer, contact me at (646) “Now is the time to reeducate peo- sure you’re not the last. That philoso- teaching English in sev- RACHEL ELKIND n SIDNEY ROTH, 81, of Boca Raton, FL, a for- David Fishman, 1176 5th Ave., KP-9, NY, NY 824-0244 or email me at anilsen329@ver- ple,” she said. People are only seeing phy has stayed with her always, said eral schools; he served mer elementary school Principal, died on 10029. izon.net. Bob Murphy has organized a trip the cost of the state’s pension system, Ms. Savino. as the first chair of the April 1. He retired from PS 124, Queens in to an open rehearsal of the NY but Ms. Savino defended it as the best English Department n Fred Koury as 1985 after 35 years of service in the city’s n EDWARD VOLLINS, 82, of Palm Beach Philharmonic on Dec. 9 at 9:45 a.m. We’ll when John Dewey High Principal of CAS. schools. Mr. Roth was an Army veteran of Gardens, FL, a retired Principal of P.S. 3, D- have lunch afterwards at The Porterhouse. School was established. World War II. He also worked as an adjunct ‘There are outright 13, Brooklyn, died April 9. He retired in For details, contact Mr. Murphy at A few years later, he teamed with a col- professor at City University of New York and February 1987. Condolences may be sent to [email protected]. league, Rick Safran, to create City-As-School. prepared examinations for the Board of his wife, Ruth, at 12878 Touchstone Pl., Palm assaults on working –ALLEN NILSEN He was among a group of Principals who Examiners. He is survived by his wife, Muriel. Beach Gardens, FL 33418. people.’ lobbied for the creation of a Superintendent for Alternative Schools in the mid-1980s. He n DR. JULIUS F. RUBIN, a former Principal, 90, n ELLWOOD “WOODY” M. WHITE, 84, of ARIZONA died on April 20. He was the longtime remained at the helm of City-As-School for Herndon, VA, a former Assistant Principal, Neil Lefkowitz will attend our Dec. 6 17 years until his retirement in 1989. Mr. Principal of the Harry E. Eiseman (275) JHS in died on March 16. Born in Ossining, NY, he luncheon/conference at the Holiday Inn Koury was a founding member of the UFT the Ocean Hill Brownsville section of served in the US Navy during WWII. Mr. in the nation, presenting no risk to tax- of Casa Grande. On Feb. 3, our own Stef and served on the Executive Board; when he Brooklyn and IS 25, D-25, Queens. In White graduated from NYU in 1951, and payers, although she added that the Thier has arranged a private tour of the became an administrator he maintained September 1974, the Board of Education received his masters degrees in 1972. He newspapers simply aren’t reporting that dual membership in CSA and the UFT. The appointed him to the Board of Examiners. was a member of Omega Psi Phi for 63 years, Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art information. “The question is not, His wife, Sophie, is a retired teacher. and received Omega’s Man of the Year with lunch. On March 10, we return to ‘Why do you have [these benefits]?’ but Condolences may be sent to her at 387 the Holiday Inn for our annual Health n Top: City Councilwoman Debi Rose of Staten Island listens to Ms. award in 1978, He served as an art teacher at ‘Why does everybody else not?’ “ she YURIDIA PEÑA Wildwood Lane East, Deerfield Beach, FL Thomas Edison Vocational High School, and Welfare Luncheon/Conference with Savino. Ms. Rose participated in a workshop on legislative issues asked rhetorically. Obituaries run as space permits. To 33442. Queens, before his promotion to Assistant Douglas V. Hathaway, Welfare Fund later in the morning. Bottom: John Gentile, center, and Len Zavlick, Ms. Savino also cautioned that submit a death notice, send informa- n CATHERINE SPATOLA, 69, a former elemen- Principal at the High School of Art and Administrator. On April 4, Unit member health insurance for retirees is not pro- Westchester and Bronx Regional Leaders respectively. tion to Anne Silverstein, CSA News tary school Principal, died on Feb. 16. She Design, Manhattan. He retired in 1988. Paul Friedman, a board member at the tected in state law and can be affected RACHEL ELKIND Editor, CSA, 16 Court St., Brooklyn, NY retired in 2003 as the Principal of PS 123, D- Condolences may be sent to his wife, new Museum of Instrumental Music, has by future contract negotiations. Union n Paula Alleva, Retiree Chapter Executive Board member. 11241 or email [email protected]. 32, Brooklyn in 2003. Her husband, Carmelo, Margaret, at 12621 Magna Carta Rd., invited us to a private tour and lunch. negotiating teams are feeling pressure died in 2004. Herndon, VA 20171. –MAISHE LEVITAN Council of School Supervisors & Administrators, NYC Periodicals New York State Federation of School Administrators Local 1 AFSA, AFL-CIO US POSTAGE PAID AT 16 Court Street, Brooklyn, NY 11241-1003 Brooklyn, NY 11201 and Additional Mailing Office DECEMBER 2010

Compiled Borough Briefs / In The Schools by Yuridia Peña

week of Oct. 17; 200 schools were Bronx (DIST. 7-12) awarded the grant. For more information on Kids Care Clubs please visit www.kid- At Carnegie Hall and scare.org. On Sept. 8 the New York Harbor the United Nations School celebrated its new and permanent site on Governor’s Island. The school On Oct. 25, the United Nations Church opened in 2003 and had been housed in Center invited Millennium Art Academy the Bushwick Campus in Brooklyn. The students to represent the NYC DOE in new site rests in a 72 year-old former US observance of the 10-year anniversary of Army barracks. The facility underwent a UN Security Council Resolution 1325 that $34 million makeover. The Principal is urges, among other things, the involve- Nathan Dudley, who recently received a ment of women as chief mediators in Blackboard Award. (See Page 16, for story.) global peace processes and in high posi- tions at the UN. MAA students were asked to interpret the resolution through paint- n Millennium Art Academy students with Principal Maxine Nodel at the UN (story left). ings, collage, photography and words. Citywide MAA senior Opeolu Sehindemi joined women from Bosnia, Pan Asia, Liberia, and sustain an organic lifestyle. "It's Dropout Prevention Pakistan, El Salvador and Columbia to Brooklyn (DIST. 13-23, 32) important for kids in general to under- deliver a speech. stand where the food comes from," said This fall, Entertainers 4 Education Three students from the Celia Cruz No To Bullies, Yes to Mr. Gyllenhaal. The project was spear- Alliance (E4EA) celebrated its second Bronx High School of Music performed headed by Mr. Lyons, the school's annual "I WILL GRADUATE DAY", a at Carnegie Hall during a birthday trib- Holiday and Garden Principal for a Day, a program run by dropout prevention campaign. Events ute to composer Stephen Sondheim. As a part of a “Respect for All” initia- PENCIL. (PENCIL is a non-profit organi- included a panel discussion, lectures and Baldwin Peña, Sacha Martinez and Jarrett tive at Susan S. McKinney Secondary zation that partners schools with profes- live performances by recording artists at Parker sang in the Nov. 19 gala. The trio, School of the Arts, students are learning sionals.) the Tribeca Performing Arts Center in with their choral teacher, joined the about respect, cultures and themselves. A At PS 217, D-22 students, parents, Manhattan. Students from Middle School group of eighth-grade leaders participated teachers and school administrators for Art and Philosophy, D-18; MS 61, D- in a Bullying Prevention workshop facili- dressed in costumes for Halloween on 17, and JHS 166, D-19, were among the tated by Partnership with Children. Oct. 29. Assistant Principal Jonathan Leal participating schools. WABC reporter Art McFarland interviewed played the electric guitar and sang and them and two of the students represented Alan Epstein, a teacher disguised as a wiz- ard, performed magic tricks. Students Brooklyn schools on a panel hosted by Queens (DIST. 24-30) WABC News. The show aired Nov. 9. made scarecrows, ate snacks and won The school community at PS 216, D- prizes. The Principal is Franca Conti. 21, planted its first tree in its Edible Brand New Facilities Schoolyard (ESY) on Oct. 15. The cere- On Nov. 3 the community of PS 107, mony drew appearances by actor Jake Manhattan (DIST. 1–6) D-25 opened its long-awaited kitchen. n Three Celia Cruz Bronx High School of Gyllenhaal and John Lyons, President of Home Depot employees from Queens Music students rehearse with their choral Production at Focus Features. ESY is a Kids Care Week donated their time to design, construct teacher. They performed at Carnegie Hall! program founded in 1995 by chef Alice and furnish it. The kitchen will be used Walters. Students will learn how to farm Mosaic Preparatory in Manhattan is as a classroom. A $15,000 grant from Essential Voices USA, a vocal ensemble, a recipient of the Kids Care Week 2010 Home Depot and a $5,000 donation from and the New York Pops Orchestra to mini-grant of $250. Michael Goldstein, retired Toys “R” Us honor the composer on his 80th birth- Kids Care Week is a CEO, funded the project. Remaining day. "This is something that you remem- program created by funds were used to create a yoga studio. ber for your entire life," said Principal generationOn (with The school serves a diverse population of William Rodriguez. a lower case “g”) that special needs and mainstream students. Educators from China exploring the promotes commu- A ribbon cutting was held on Oct. 7 at NYC school system visited five schools nity service among PS 273, D-27 to mark the opening of a housed in the Northeast Bronx elementary and mid- multi-purpose room. Guest speakers Educational Park on November 3. The dle school students. included DOE Deputy Chancellor Chinese delegation also met with NYC The program offers Santiago Taveras, Queens Borough school administrators at Truman High volunteer opportuni- President Helen Marshall, state Sen. School where they were treated to an ties with local organ- Joseph Addabbo, Jr., City Council mem- Italian-inspired lunch prepared by culinary izations. The grant ber Elizabeth Crowley and DSSI Network students. CSA First Vice President Randi helped fund activities Leader Sumita Kaufhold. The Principal is Herman met with the delegation where n Students attend to the Edible Schoolyard at PS 216 in Brooklyn. during Kids Care Brenda Ward. PS 273 is one of 15 schools she accepted a gift on behalf of CSA. (For more information, see story above.) Week, which ran the that opened this fall.