BOSTON TEACHERS UNION, LOCAL 66, AFT Non-Profit Org. ATTENTION! 180 Mount Vernon Street U.S. Postage th Boston, Massachusetts 02125 PAID 75 Anniversary of the Boston, MA Boston Teachers Union Permit No. 52088 Celebration Party BBOSTON TEACHERSU postponed until TUNION October 16, 2021 75

EVERYONE ¡TODOS IS SON WELCOME BIENVENIDOS BBOSTON TEACHERSU HERE! AQUÍ! TUNION BT U BT U The Award-Winning Newspaper of the Boston Teachers Union, AFT Local 66, AFL-CIO • Volume 53, Number 2 • Oct.-Nov., 2020 President’s Report Jessica J. Tang “Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.” s news of Supreme Court Justice • Sign up for the BTU Political Activ- doors) in Maine or New Hampshire, ARuth Bader Ginsburg’s passing ist list please also contact Roberto. He is work- dominated the weekend of Rosh Hasha- • Join the BTU Electoral Action Team ing full time on all 2020 election effort na, it was easy to fall into despair during (BEAT) to: and is here to assist all of our members in a time when, those of Jewish faith, were • Help us recruit volunteers at your organizing and getting involved. supposed to be celebrating a new year. As school or worksite. In addition, we will be setting up we mourned both the loss of an incred- • Organize the members in your BTU-specific phone banks a few times ible justice who was integral to so much neighborhood or community. a week where anyone can join and make Jessica J. Tang of who we as social justice educators After you have recruited members phone calls. These calls will mainly be to BTU President stand for and also a symbol of justice and to participate, ask them to recruit more other AFT households, or to other union progress critical to the tenuous balance people. Every volunteer makes a differ- families. If you want to do get involved that are critical to bringing in others to on the Supreme Court, it was hard not to ence! in a way that is not on this list, please call join us. feel at a loss. Please call or email our new BTU or email Johnny McInnis and Roberto To get involved today, please contact: However, it is Ruth Bader Ginsburg Political Organizer Roberto Jimenez to Jimenez, and we will help you make a • Johnny McInnis, BTU Political words herself that must give us solace learn more about how to get involved difference. Director: [email protected] or 617- and the strength to keep going. “Fight for (603-260-9448, [email protected]) Again, this is the time not just to 433-0488 the things that you care about, but do it If you feel comfortable doing socially mourn, but to organize. If we heed Ruth • Roberto Jimenez, BTU Political in a way that will lead others to join you.” distant in-person canvassing or litera- Bader Ginsburg’s words, we must begin Organizer: [email protected] or In remembrance of her, and in honoring ture drops (leaving printed materials on by having the one to one conversations 603-260-9448 her legacy and everything she continues to stand for, we must keep fighting and fight in a way that we will continue to build power and bring others in to join us. We cannot just mourn, we must con- tinue to organize, fight and win. This means not only for educational justice, BBOSTON TEACHERSU but for the social, racial and economic TUNION justice issues that impact both our abil- #BTUVotes#BTUVotes ity to teach well with the resources we need and those that impact our students, families and BTU members livelihoods and wellbeing. This means that in the new few days, we have a responsibility to do all we can do to right the balance of justice. Women’s rights, labor rights, stu- dent rights, and our public education system are now in peril if Donald Trump appoints a new Supreme Court Justice before the people have a say in who our next President will be. We must defeat Donald Trump and take back the U.S. Senate, and the BTU is All-In to make that a reality. Now, more than ever we need all of our members to do their part. The BTU will be supporting the national efforts of our affiliate, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) primarily by focusing on New England, which means ensuring that Joe Biden wins New Hampshire and Maine, as well as electing Sara Gideon to the U.S. Sen- ate to replace Senator Susan Collins in Maine. Our power as a union comes from our ability to mobilize thousands of mem- bers, so we ask that you think about your capacity in the next few weeks and do everything in your power to help us win this election. Here are ways that you can help us to organize and fight back today: • Sign up today for AFT Phone Banks See BTU’s Endorsed Candidates on page 8. The BTU Hits the Campaign Trail!

2 | BOSTON UNION TEACHER | October-November, 2020 Know Your Rights Caren Carew What are Some of the Health Measures Contained in the BTU/BPS Memorandum of Understanding? PS will provide publicly available work their regular contractual hours • Alternative instruction provided in Bweekly reports on incidents of infec- every Wednesday, whether remote or a safe environment. tion by school. in buildings. Wednesdays will include The BPS partners with the BPHC synchronous & asynchronous learning When are School Site Council (Boston Public Health Commission) opportunities for students that require Elections & Meetings Held? who will monitor key data metrics so the sufficient time on learning to account for Caren Carew BPS can plan & respond appropriately a full day of instruction. Employees shall he School Site Council (SSC) is the Tcentral governing body of the school BTU Secondary to public health issues that arise. Criti- receive their full pay & benefits as pro- Field Representative cal metrics are measured citywide & by vided in the CBA (Collective Bargaining under the school-based management/ shared decision-making model. The con- neighborhood as a 7-day trailing moving Agreement/BTU contract) & as adjusted • approve waivers average which will include: daily number by this MOU. tract stipulates; “Elections for new SSC members shall be conducted as early in • review & approve recommenda- of positive tests; daily percent of positive During the time of COVID-19, each tions of Instructional Leadership tests, and daily visits to emergency rooms staff member will record their atten- the school year as possible [by October 15], and a first meeting of the new council Team (ILT) that will have a major with COVID-19-like symptoms. BPHC dance/absence electronically at or before effect on the school community will post these metrics on its public- the start of the work day as instructed shall be held no later than October 31st.” At the first meeting, a monthly calendar • review & approve recommenda- facing website twice a week. BPS will link by BPS. BTU members will enter their tions from any other committee or from its website to BPHC metrics. BPS absences into the Substitute Online should be agreed upon by the SSC mem- bers for the entire school year and be made group that’s established to recom- will provide sufficient translated direc- (SubCentral) program to request daily mend changes that will have a major tions on BPS website to ensure BPHC coverage and into ESS system for payroll public through distribution to all staff and parents. Any change must be approved by effect on the school community metrics are readily understandable by purposes. • receive information about all out- BPS community. All teachers will be required to use the SSC with at least one week’s notice to all staff & Parents. SSC Meetings should side programs or outside profes- If citywide COVID-19 positivity rate Google Classroom and/or SeeSaw for sionals that come into the school rises above 45 citywide, BPS will transi- each of their classes, unless BPS recom- be at times convenient for all members & times may alternate to meet this goal. • review & comment on entire school tion to full remote learning for all stu- mends use of any improved program. budget, including the General dents, and BTU bargaining unit mem- Google Classroom will be available for What is the Basic Roles Fund & External Funds budgets, bers will have the option to be remote as all teachers, grades K0-12 & SeeSaw will of the School Site Council in a timely fashion. Upon written well. When BPHC or another City/State be available for teachers of students in request, SSC members shall be authority determines BPS can reopen, grades K0-6. (SSC) and the SSC Personnel provided with written or electronic BTU members will be expected to return BTU members are expected to report Subcommittee? copies of school budgets to BPS buildings. all facility concerns directly & immedi- The role of the Personnel Subcommit- Free COVID-19 tests are available at ately to the school’s principal/HM/direc- he School Site Council (SSC) is the Tcentral governing body of the school tee of the School Site Council shall be: sites around Boston. If the COVID-19 tor. (Please do so in writing and make Governed by the contract & is composed positivity rate is at or above 8% (double sure the BTU Reps maintain this list to under the school-based management/ shared decision-making model, & is of two of the elected BTU members of the citywide metric) in any neighbor- be able to report it to the BTU). the SSC, one elected SSC parent member, hood identified by the BPHC at the All staff must wear a mask/face cov- required to exist in all public schools by state law. SSC are composed of the & at high school level, one SSC elected same time that the citywide positivity ering while on school property unless student member. Each SSC member rate remains below 4%, BPS will offer provided with an individual accommo- Principal, a set number of elected by secret ballot (by Oct 15) BTU members group selects their own representative(s). free COVID-19 testing weekly to up to dation due to disability and/or health to approve the hiring of new BTU 5% of BTU bargaining unit members. consideration, as approved by the BPS determined by the total number of BTU members who work more than 50% of teachers’ bargaining unit staff & in-trans- Testing will be random, with overs- Office of Human Capital. fer of BTU teachers’ bargaining unit staff ampling drawn from staff working at Staff bathrooms will be limited to one their work week at the school, parents of children at the school elected through the from other schools in the system & the school sites in neighborhoods with adult occupant at a time. Teachers should choice of teachers from the excess pools/ positivity rates measuring at or above clean their personal space & personal Parent Council, and in high schools, two voting student members, elected by the PTPP approve the selection of Teacher 8%. If no neighborhood exceeds 8% work area, including their desk. Teachers Leaders, New Teacher Developers/men- positivity rate, BPS will provide up to are responsible for instructing students student body. Each SSC is responsible for finding ways to implement the intent tor teachers, Lead Teachers, & new ath- 5% of BTU members with such testing, to clean desks and other student specific letic coaches but with oversampling of BTU mem- surfaces. of the provisions governing school-based management in ways that do not violate determine the schedule & procedures bers whose work regularly place them for reviewing candidates for positions in close physical proximity to students What is Entailed in the outstanding court orders or state/federal who require physical support, such as MOU Under Home Health laws & regulations. SSC is governed by hand-over-hand support & modeling, the contract. Further info is found in the Screening? current BTU/BPS contract pages 7-16. Phone Numbers feeding, toileting, physical restraint, BBOSTON TEACHERSU TUNION etc. Teachers will not be eligible for re- efore entering the building each day, The role of the SSC shall be: testing as part of this program within Beach staff member will complete a • Review & approve School Improve- Office...... 617-288-2000 14 days of a prior test. Testing will only health checklist developed by the BPS. ment Plan Health & Welfare...... 617-288-0500 be available for members physically Employees who are diagnosed with • approve the budget for discretion- AFT Massachusetts...... 617-423-3342 reporting to school buildings with stu- COVID-19 shall report the diagnosis ary school materials, supplies, text- Function Office...... 617-288-3322 to the Office of Human Capital imme- books & equipment Lounge Office...... 617-288-3322 dents. Test results will be available to Vision Center...... 617-288-5540 tested person & BPHC within 48 hours. diately. Students will be required to self- • develop & approve plans for check temperatures & other symptoms increasing parent involvement in Tremont Credit Union...... 781-843-5626 What are Some of the of illness before coming to school. the school Employee Expectations In the event students behave in a way that jeopardizes public health & Contained in the BTU/BPS safety, the BPS will enforce the Code of MOU? Conduct. Safety protocols will be clearly EVERYONE ¡TODOS Boston Teachers Union, defined for students & parents prior to IS SON here ever the MOU is silent, the WELCOME BIENVENIDOS AFT Local 66, AFL-CIO BBOSTON TEACHERSU HERE! AQUÍ! WBTU/BPS contract is in place students entering the school. Student TUNION BT U BT U concerning employee/employer expecta- adjustments may include: EDITORIAL NOTE: The opinions expressed in the Boston Union tions, work conditions, schedules, and so • Teacher redirection and/or remind- The Boston Union Teacher ers as needed; is published ten times a year Teacher do not necessarily represent the views of forth. September - July, inclusive. the Boston Teachers Union, or those of its members. All BTU Staff will work their regular, • Removal of student from the class- room & notification of parent; contractual hours. All BTU staff will President WHEN WRITING: JESSICA J. TANG All correspondence to the Boston Union Teacher must be typewritten and include the author’s name Vice President and school or department if not school-based. ERIK R. BERG All articles must be appropriate to the publication, Secretary-Treasurer and in good taste. BETSY DRINAN Letters to the Editor should be sent to Co-Editors [email protected] MICHAEL J. MAGUIRE GARRET VIRCHICK DEADLINE: The deadline for submitting articles for the Editorial Board next issue of the Boston Union Teacher is Caren Carew Betsy Drinan November 11th. Tim Maher All copy should be e-mailed to Johnny McInnis Anne Slater [email protected] and [email protected] Richard Stutman This deadline will be strictly adhered to. 180 Mount Vernon Street | Boston, MA 02125 617-288-2000 | Fax 617-288-0024 | www.btu.org Union Printworks

BOSTON UNION TEACHER | October-November, 2020 | 3 Commentary Garret Virchick The Ballot and the Fight for Democracy lection night 2020. Trump declares important that voter rolls be maintained, organizations organizing to stop any Evictory with millions of mail-in bal- it is equally true that overly aggressive attempt to undermine the election. The lots still to be counted, emboldened by purging of voter rolls “...have been again Frontline - https://thefrontline.org/ - is a Fox News declaration that he has won and again shown to disproportionately one of those organizations. It is a joint the electoral college. Lawsuits are filed impact racial and language minority project between the Working Families demanding to stop any further count. communities.” Party and the Movement for Black Lives Armed white militias surround 1600 Bottom line, the importance of this Electoral Justice Project. The Frontline Pennsylvania Avenue vowing to protect Presidential election is more than clear. will be organizing a mass mobilization Trump following a conspiracy theory Our Democracy will be at risk if we end on November 4th to make it clear that spreading on Facebook and Twitter that up with four more years of Trump. A any machinations of Trump to subvert Antifa is planning a coup d’état. The conservative Supreme Court will further the election will not be tolerated. Supreme Court, weakened by the passing erode a woman’s right to choose. Mil- Another national formation is Protect of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, seems lions of people will lose health care if the the Vote - https://protecttheresults.com/ ready to go along with the New Confed- Affordable Care Act is gutted, or outright - a joint project of Indivisible and Stand eracy who control the White House and ruled “unconstitutional”. Trump’s law and Up America to protect the valid results the United States Senate. order rhetoric will continue to embolden of the 2020 election. In their own words, Garret Virchick If this seems farfetched, like a bad police forces as more and more Black “If Trump loses, he must accept those Boston Union Teacher Tom Clancy novel, think about what lives are lost to excessive force. And the results. Our democracy depends on it.” Co-Editor has been happening so far in this elec- already well-armed white militias will After the passing of Justice Ruth tion season. Every chance he gets Trump continue to organize as Trump refuses to Bader Ginsburg, Trump is already mov- We live in ominous times brothers claims the election is being rigged by the speak out against what is a very large part ing to consolidate his power and refuse and sisters. The last four years have been Democrats with millions of “fraudulent” of his political base. to step down, even if the people vote brutal on the American people. This year mail-in ballots. He also falsely claims Voting this election, however, is just him out. Four years ago, the Republican- alone we have lost over 200,000 people that radical violent extremists are filling the start of what we all have to do. We controlled Senate refused to give a hear- to a virus due to the willful ignorance of the streets in the wake of the Black Lives should all be volunteering some of our ing to Obama-nominated Justice to the the Trump administration who saw it as Matter protests, despite the fact that the time to convince others to vote for Joe Supreme Court Merrick Garland, saying an obstacle to be ignored, as he moved to vast number of protests have been peace- Biden and defeat Donald Trump. The that the American people should first win re-election. We have seen the contin- ful, most of the violence being incited by American Federation of Teachers is decide the President, despite the fact that ued murder of Black people at the hands militarized police forces, white suprema- organizing phone banking. Go to https:// the election was ten months away. This of the police and the righteous rebellion cist militias, and troops dispatched from www.mobilize.us/aft/ and sign up for as year, with only six weeks to go before of Black Lives Matter that followed. The Homeland Security by Attorney General many sessions as you can do. Sign up to the election Trump said on Fox News, economy has been destroyed through William Barr. be a BTU Political Activist - https://btu. “We should act quickly (to install a new Trump’s botched COVID-19 response Combine this with what seems to be a org/political-action/btu-parents-commu- Justice) because we’re going to have and millions are out of work and have recurring theme, Republican controlled nity-allies-political-activist-list/. Join the probably election things involved here, lost their health insurance. And the state houses are using all the power they BTU Electoral Action Team by contact- you know, because of the fake ballots that recent fires on the west coast and a record have to suppress the vote and disen- ing BTU Organizer Roberto Jimenez they’ll be sending out.” hurricane season has reminded us that franchise millions of voters. The ultra- (603-260-9448, [email protected]) The Boston Teachers Union needs to climate change is here while anti-science conservative Judicial Watch has filed In addition, we need to be thinking consider connecting to The Frontline ideologues control our government. lawsuits in six states claiming that voter strongly about what we will do as a union and Protect the Vote. If Trump refuses It’s times like this that organization rolls are not being maintained and they if Trump indeed decides to contest mail- to step down after losing a fair elec- and solidarity across the union move- should be purged of ineligible votes. The in ballots and refuse to step down, caus- tion everything must be on the table, ment is so important. We need to stand American Civil Liberties Union Voting ing a constitutional crisis in our country. including shutting down sections of the together and with others, BTU Proud. Rights Project points out that while it is Already at the national level there are economy. BTU organized! Commentary Paul Eaton Why Do We Support Universal Education? onths ago the title of this article munity. Main arguments used centered edges that we are in the middle of a pan- I would be forced to use my accrued sick- Mmay have appeared as educational around food distribution. Throughout demic, which, of course, is the stinking days to safeguard myself and loved ones. blasphemy, but today I ask it in all ear- the closure process the question of food giant dead elephant in the room: to open Honestly, I see no other choice: during nestness. What is the purpose of active distribution was a central justification for schools again endangers senior staff and quarantine I have re-learned the true in-person instruction? staying open. everyone’s loved ones. value of my loved ones. How can I now The COVID-19 pandemic has torn Now that remote learning has So why do we teach? If it is for the cast that aside and endanger those closest through our society and exposed funda- betterment of society, then ignoring to me? mentals. Prior to this period, I assumed Remote learning, while real health risks that will incur actual Besides, with the whole world working that others held my core views. However, inferior to that in the suffering and loss, just to cling to past on a vaccine, it shouldn’t be much longer this crisis has forced people to show their normalcy, is not the path forward. BPS before a viable and effective vaccine is own true values. Hypocrisy, discon- classroom, does have the has already solved the food-distribution produced. Companies around the world nect, and duplicy have all been blatantly potential to impart some skills. question. Remote learning, while infe- are claiming successes, soon such claims exposed bare in the face of actual mortal rior to that in the classroom, does have should lead to tangible solutions. There- decisions and existential uncertainty. resumed, people are asking questions the potential to impart some skills and fore, to me, the only ethical choice is to The essential question of “why do we that again draw on the central question, therefore occupy the students’ attention. continue social-distancing until a vaccine teach” is implicit and center stage in all “why do we teach?” The pandemic has We need to acknowledge current reali- is distributed. Choosing compassion over argumentation used back in March to become endemic, but there is hope for ties. And we really need to examine our profit is an important ideal I believe we keep the schools open and also all argu- a vaccine on the near horizon. Food- fundamental drivers. should actively model for our students. ments being used today to resume face- distribution centers have “solved” the Nothing should be left off the table, Answers may differ. I still believe to-face teaching. Sadly there is a huge food-distribution question. even a sacred cow like the question of that education’s goal is to make our disconnect between my answer to that However, currently there are people universal education itself. I have known students better, more compassionate, question and the argumentation being now calling for all schools to open as nor- parents who have discovered that remote and happier adults than had they lived used by those in power. mal. Decrees and mandates to this effect learning and home-schooling is actu- in unenlightened ignorance. Students To me, teaching has been all about are being issued from the highest towers ally better for their child than when the learn more from actions than verbal imparting skills, building character, and of power. This time the arguments flow traditional setting existed. When this spin. Science tells us that covid-19 empowering our students to reach their around economics, logistics, and child- is over, those parents will demand con- thrives and spreads well in high-den- fullest adult potential. I see myself as a care. For our society to function, people tinuation of these successful approaches. sity, poorly ventilated, small rooms, small but important part of society work- need to go back to work. For people to That child and those parents should have where lots of different people are talk- ing towards the greater good. I know that go back to work, their children need to be those options. ing. To open schools now means to most of what I “achieve” is invisible and occupied. Through this lens, a primary For now, I am comfortable with actively ignore the Science surrounding intangible. I also know that the seeds that function of schools is to occupy children, remote learning. I am serving my prima- the issue. What kind of role-modelling I helped plant won’t reach fruition until i.e., provide daycare and distraction for ry function of imparting my curriculum lesson are we giving kids when those time has passed and I am out of the pic- children while their adult parents toil to while keeping myself and my household in power insist on ignoring science, ture. increase our GDP. safe. True, I would fight tooth and nail for ignoring ethics, and ignoring suffering Back in March schools stayed open Although food-distribution and my students, but this is different. They over money? Is this not just formalized passed the point where the majority of daycare both might be components of a aren’t in danger. The risk is mine and on universal ignorance? students and teachers knew of the viral modern school, neither is related to why my loved ones at home. If I were called in (Paul Eaton teaches physics and chem- dangers that had arrived in our com- I teach. Also, neither argument acknowl- before a vaccine is in my veins, I’m afraid istry at Boston Latin Academy)

4 | BOSTON UNION TEACHER | October-November, 2020 Remembering the Delayed Liberation of Black People in America, Advocating for Black Lives, and a Call for the End of Systemic Racism in America by Joel Richards control were born: Jim Crow laws and incarceration, choke holds, no knock (From a speech Joel Richards made in the “separate but equal” Supreme Court warrants, and ”I had to shoot I feared for Dorchester commemorating Juneteenth) ruling. Separate but equal was code for my life.” oppressed and vulnerable. It was code The destruction of our communities Why Are We Here? for sitting in the back of the bus or giving have many code words: redlining, gerry- et’s be honest, we shouldn’t be here. In up your seat, 2nd class citizenship, voter mandering, imminent domain, vagrancy L1865 when the Union soldiers showed suppression, or the inability to enter pub- statutes, mandatory minimum sentenc- up in Texas and announced the end of lic buildings or colleges. ing guidelines, loss of voting rights due the Civil War, that should have been the In the spirit of Juneteenth – even to felony convictions, 3 strike laws, shit end of terroisim and slavery for black though we were not allowed in court- whole countries. people. We should have been emancipat- rooms, or colleges, or board rooms – we I ask how has nobody ever thought ed, however systemic white supremacy overcame that and passed legislation pro- instead of more police let’s split the took new forms, under the new names of tecting us from the systemic rage of white schools in half and send more teachers Joel Richards apprenticeship programs, prisoner loan supremacy. It was 1983 before white and to better serve, and educate? Instead of out, and lyniching. Black people in the black workers were paid equally in the more police, what about more scholar- whole world has finally spoken and have spirit of Juneteenth advocated, marched White House. As progress was made a ships for college? Instead of more police, said enough is enough! No more code and in the end overcame that form of new code words for systemic oppressions what about more jobs and better eco- names, no more systemic racism, no slavery and opressions. were created, super predators and the nomic investment in home ownership? more systems of control. Give black peo- Then other forms of systemic racial war on drugs. These were codes for mass Why are we here after 400 years? The ple the country they deserved in 1868.

BTU Members Join March on Washington 2020 BTU member Vanessa Laroque organized a bus, filled with a handful of teens, a number of local labor unionists including several BTU members to attend the August March on Washington. It was a moving and historical event filled with many teachable moments for the young adults. Various leaders: Denise Berkeley, Retired Teacher and Union member, Mothers Against Violence; Carla Ramsey, SEI members, School students from Brookline High, Brighton High, and Adm. Sonie Felix of Charlestown High.

BOSTON UNION TEACHER | October-November, 2020 | 5 BPS/BTU NBCT Leadership Team Interviewed by Margaret Arlauskas, BPS/BTU National Board Leadership Team With Benadette Manning, NBCT Given that there are 53,000 leaders in their schools. Finally we need Students in BPS and the more students of color to join the teach- Where Do You Teach in BPS? ing ranks and they will do that when they What Subject Do You Teach? Majority of Them are Students see more people like them teaching. of Color, Do You Think it is What we need to do to get more teach- teach at Boston Day and Evening Acad- Important That Teachers of ers of color to earn their NBCT is to talk I emy Pilot program. This program is a it up because many teachers do not know small school of only 8 staff and 60 males Color are More Represented much, if anything, about the national of color who have traditionally struggled in the Boston National Board board. I believe that more teachers would with finishing high school. My students Than They are Currently? If so, earn their NBCT if they knew about it. are very capable but did not buy into What Do You Think We Should the pedagogy of traditional schooling. I Any Helpful Information You Do to Get More TOC to Earn have to be creative, reflective and open Would Like to Share With Benadette Manning, NBCT minded. I teach mathematics, physical Their NBCT? Know that there is a lot of support for computing (MicroBits and Lego Robot- Aspiring NBCT Candidates in think that there should be more rep- candidates though the national website, ics), and I am an advisor. BPS? I resentation of teachers of color in the BPS/BTU Leadership Team, and the What is Your Certificate Area? BPS because many children of color are feel that many people are intimidated local cohort the candidates choose to join. not learning enough about themselves, I by the national board process and When Did You Certify? there is little education about the issues they should not be. It is very doable with Do You Want to Help BPS am certified in Adolescence and Young in their communities, there is very little support and it ultimately does not cost Candidates Through the I Adult (AYA) Mathematics 9-12. I origi- to no anti-racism work with students anything-- you can’t say that for a Ph.D. National Board Process? nally certified in 1998 and renewed twice and within teacher ranks. Many schools program or additional masters credits. 2008 and 2019. in Boston are run by white principals In 21 years I have earned approximately es! I have been supporting candi- with little successful experience in $90,000 additional pay (retirement eli- Ydates for the last 21 years! I am on What Inspired You to Become urban schools. We could use NBCT’s to gible) for being a NBCT and I paid $0 for the BPS/BTU National Board Leader- a NBCT? lead schools or to be respected teacher- the certifications and two renewals! ship Team. started late in my teaching career as Ipreviously I owned a greeting card With Cristina De Guzman, NBCT staff of 3 or fewer years, you have to focus business and was an accountant. I started on them. You have to put the needs of the teaching English in a Houston Catholic Where Do You Teach in BPS? students first, and so you need to focus school to middle schools. It was in a What Subject Do You Teach? on the teachers who have the greenest rude awakening of how professional and teach at The English High School Eng- skills. The NB process enabled me the “human” I needed to be at the same time. Ilish Language Arts (ELA). I’ve taught opportunity and impetus to push and NBCT was the professional development remedial reading for 9th through AP. not simply rely on the skill level I had that I needed to help me learn how to already attained. As a veteran teacher, I become an effective teacher. What is Your Certificate Area? am pushed into positions as lead, men- When Did You Certify? tor, new teacher developer but find it at How Has Becoming a NBCT the price of not pushing myself. National Helped Your Teaching earned my National Board certificate Board helped me to focus on my teach- I area in ELA/Adolescence and Young ing practice. Profession? Adulthood in 2018. I also hold MA DESE Cristina De Guzman, NBCT few years after becoming a NBCT I licenses in French and ESL. I certified Can You Explain Now This A was hired as a dean of a large com- over 20 years ago in ELA and French and Process Has Made a Positive ships with their colleagues within their prehensive school in another district. I added ESL and Special Ed 7-10 years ago. Impact on Student Learning? schools and throughout the NB commu- was told that being a NBCT helped me nity. It also creates a pathway to leader- attain that job. In the teaching profession What Inspired You to Become n some ways, it just helped them ship while remaining in the classroom; a educators respect the National Board. a NBCT? Ibecause they all knew I was doing sorely needed element within the profes- it - it showed them that learning and sion. Can You Explain Now This wanted career advancement. I already improving is a constant process - that Ihave 2 advanced degrees, and didn’t Process Has Made a Positive ‘good’ teachers are ones who keep trying Any Helpful Information You want more online classes where I didn’t to get better. It also forced me to pause Would Like to Share With Impact on Student Learning? learn anything. I also wanted potential and reflect on HOW I was teaching and opportunities for leadership. how I knew kids were learning skills they Aspiring NBCT Candidates in believe that one of the most important BPS? I aspects of teaching is to communicate could apply independently. The process and reflect with self, with students, and How Has Becoming a NBCT enabled me to look at current research/ on’t do everything I did! I did all 4 with families. To that end, as a NBCT, I Helped Your Teaching techniques. It gave me new learning Dcomponents in one academic year. It learned how to question my pedagogy Profession? about the content and different ways to was overwhelming and basically meant and curriculum by asking myself, “Am I teach the content. I learned new research that’s all I worked on for February and teaching this subject in the most effective he process not only forced timely, on how to teach literacy skills effectively April breaks. Take the time afforded to way for all of my students?” I also learned Timmediately applicable reflection on to my students who are underserved with you. that all families care deeply about their practice (unlike a lot of PD or courses interrupted and intermittent education. However, some things I did that were children. I ask families, “ What can I do which are often disconnected from day It was personalized professional develop- integral not only to passing but also to to help your child and your family? ” I ask to day practice and student needs) - it ment which allowed me to personalize enjoying it and learning… students, “ What did you think of the last also enabled the opportunity to do this in my practice. Have a team. Ideally you want a team unit we studied?” and “ What went well? depth reflection and improvement with within your school, but certainly if not What did not go well? How would you colleagues - the collaborative component Given that there are 53,000 in your school, then in other schools, a change it”? The answers I received have of the work cannot be understated. Students in BPS and the team who are working together. resulted in big changes to my curriculum Often as a veteran teacher, I am last Collect multiple versions for each ele- on the list of faculty to be pushed to Majority of Them are Students units and my pedagogy. of Color, Do You Think it is ment along the way, the lesson you think improve. It’s simply a matter of numbers will work, inevitably won’t. - when you have several teachers on your Important That Teachers of The video part is hard. Not because Color are More Represented it’s hard to be on camera - but because in the Boston National Board it’s incredibly difficult to get the video Than They are Currently? If so, you need. Part of it is technical - need- Special Needs Art Educator of the Year ing someone to record you, getting the What Do You Think We Should sound right, figuring out which sec- Christopher Hall, Do to Get More TOC to Earn tion to use, then formatting it to fit the Joseph Lee K-8 School Their NBCT? requirements in order to upload it to the e-portfolio system...it’s crazy! But it’s also he Massachusetts Art Education Association (MAEA) announces the es. The reality is that our faculty has that the lesson you thought would high- Trecipients of the 2021 MAEA Awards. The 2021 MAEA Awards Ceremo- Ygaps just as any organization. How- light a certain part of your practice ends ny will not be held this year, but award winners will be celebrated and honored ever, it is insufficient simply to acknowl- up showing you how much you need to at the 2021 awards ceremony in November 2021. edge gaps; you have to address them. One adjust your practice. And you have to An affiliate of the National Art Education Association (NAEA) since 1975, of the glaring gaps in BPS is a dearth of revise and teach whole new lessons (that MAEA is Massachusetts’ professional association for art educators. The mis- teachers of color. Given that, it is impera- are actually better). sion of MAEA is to advance high quality visual arts education throughout tive not only that BPS address this short- Use the resources around you. Your the state by empowering art educators to excel in the practice, instruction, age, but also that we support and encour- colleagues, other NB teachers within promotion, and celebration of visual art. Recipients exemplify highly quali- age those teachers of color already within the district, your evaluator...anyone who fied individuals active in the field of art education today: leaders, educators, the district to become the most effective knows about strong pedagogy, effective students, scholars, researchers, and advocates who make significant contribu- teachers possible. NB is an excellent way writing, and who is willing to read pages tions to the profession. to do this. It affords teachers of color the and pages all about you. chance not only to improve their craft, but to create strong professional relation- continued on page 7 6 | BOSTON UNION TEACHER | October-November, 2020 Statement of AFT President Randi Weingarten on the Life and Legacy of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg merican Federation of Teachers President ARandi Weingarten issued the following statement in response to the news of the death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg: “Justice Ginsburg is an icon. She leaves behind a legacy as a brilliant, hardworking jurist and a trailblazing feminist; her loss is incalculable. Long before she became notorious, she broke barriers most never even dreamed to approach. Her unfailing sense of justice reminded us of its awesome power, and her unbending sense of duty reminded us to remain committed to protecting our democracy, our Constitution and the rule of law. But it was her personal courage and resilience, especially in the face of illness, that reminded us just how much strength one single person can have. “The best way to honor Justice Ginsburg is to cherish the justice she pursued and to honor her final wish to wait until the next president is inaugurated before considering her replacement.” BPS/BTU NBCT Leadership Team… continued from page 6 Do You Want to Help BPS cate area. It increases collective capacity. Candidates Through the It is a lot of work but I feel confident in my work to support colleagues. National Board Process? If you are interested in attaining your efinitely – I would like to both infor- National Board certification, please con- Dmally/ formally support teacher can- tact the BPS/BPS NBCT LT by emailing didates at my school through the process. nationalboard@bostonpublicschools. I believe it makes people better educators org. You can also visit our website bit. at the class level and collaboratively in ly/2019nbctlt or announcements check us Latin Academy teacher Michael Maguire welcomes his students to the first day of classes - school or across schools in your certifi- out on Twitter @BostonNbct virtually. Retired Teachers Chapter Marilyn Marion, RTC Chair & Joan Devlin, RTC Secretary RTC Holds Virtual Business Meeting eptember 17, 2020 marked another would be increased to $200 annually with Applying for Medicare before your the outcome of the proposed merger of Sfirst in this year of pandemic firsts. each Basic COLA increase. Surviving 65th birthday is required. If you are eli- the Tufts and Harvard Pilgrim plans. Rather than simply cancel the Fall spouses would be eligible if the deceased gible you must take Medicare Part A, B If you move you need to notify the Business meetin, the Retired Teachers retiree would otherwise be eligible. and D coverage. If you are not eligible Health and Insurance Division of your Chapter held its very first Zoom business Enhanced benefit becomes a permanent you may stay on your non-Medicare new information. Departments do not meeting. part of the pension allowance. If enacted, plan. You can receive help from this divi- share this information. You should Over 50 members participated in the the Enhanced benefit becomes auto- sion to apply for Medicare. notify the Boston Retirement Board, The meeting, sharing experiences during this matic for the State/Teachers’ Systems and The base price for Medicare Part B Health and Insurance Division and the year including their participating in BTU under a Local Option provision, must be is $144.60. If you have a higher income, Retired Teacher Chapter of the BTU. actions, political activities and keeping in accepted by local retirement boards and then you pay according to a schedule Reminder for Recent Retirees touch with friends and colleagues while their respective legislative body. that is based on the amount you earned social distancing and isolation. Larry Connolly, Co-Chair of the from your tax filing from two years ago. or some, this pandemic has caused RTC Legislative Committee noted that The City reimburses 50 % of your cost for Fteachers and paraprofessionals to State and Federal Legislative the RTC developed a similar proposal Part B. If you paid more because you had rethink retirement plans. The difficul- Update for the City of Boston, but it had a much a higher part B payment, you can file the ties presented by the virus coupled with haun Duhamel, CEO of the Mas- higher impact on BTU Teacher Retirees. form you receive from Social Security the ever-evolving plans to reopen or not Ssachusetts Retirees, was the first Duhamel acknowledged the problem of showing your payment for Part B, and reopen, remote or in person teaching, speaker. He updated the membership on not including Boston teacher retirees, but the City reimburses 50% of that amount. and having underlying conditions that what is happening at both the state and pointed out that thousands of other par- Medicare supplement plans offered make you vulnerable have combined to federal level that affects us. ticipants in the State Teacher Retirement by the city vary in how Part D drug costs force difficult decisions. Duhamel praised Charlie Johnson system would benefit. Boston has a higher are paid. In some plans the price of drugs Newly-retired Teachers and Parapro- for his work representing retirees on average benefit level than the state average. is included in the plan. Harvard Pilgrim fessionals are reminded that you must the joint union committee negotiating At the federal level, efforts to change recently changed its plan to Silver Scripts apply for membership in the BTU’s health benefits for Boston Retirees. He the Windfall Elimination Provision con- for drug coverage and the result was an Retired Teacher Chapter. Also new retir- also urged members to vote for the two tinue. Duhamel noted that the BTU/RTC increase in the price of the Harvard Pil- ees should apply for COBRA through union representatives on the Boston had been very helpful in bringing other grim plan. Health and Welfare to extend dental and Retirement Board Michael McLaughlin states into the fight to get WEP changed, Members were warned about the eyeglass benefits for 2 years. of the BTU and Michael O’Reilly of the but more are needed. While this legisla- confusion created by marketing compa- Explore the benefits that are available Boston Firefighters local 718. He said tion will not eliminate WEP and com- nies for supplemental Medicare plans. only to RTC members. After COBRA both members demonstrate their knowl- pletely restore all social security money, Medicare open enrollment occurs from ends you can apply for dental insur- edge and dedication to the retired union it will begin to restore some money to October-December. This is not for the ance, discounts on eyeglasses from the members across the City. people who lost social security due to City of Boston retirees. Many of these Eye Care Center, discounts on hearing Mass Retirees filed legislation that this provision. Congressman Neal wants plans offer things like eyeglasses or rides aids through HEAR USA. Visit the RTC tries to improve the current COLA base to tie the WEP legislation to a larger bill to medical appointments included in the section of the website: https//www.btu/ issues faced by the State Teachers Retire- to help insure its passage. cost of these plans. But here’s the catch. retirees.org. ment systems. As redrafted, S2798, the The RTC Legislative Committee You can only be covered by one Medicare Keep in touch with colleagues, par- Senior COLA Enhancement contains agreed that we would continue to work plan. If you choose a supplemental cov- ticipate in activities, enjoy our travel the following key features: With each cooperatively with the Mass Retirees in erage outside of the City’s plan you lose opportunities (when we get to travel Basic COLA increase, an additional seeking legislation that benefits all retirees. your coverage and become responsible again), keep engaged in BTU events and annual COLA benefit of $100 would be for the total cost. You have the freedom activities. You can download n applica- paid to retirees who satisfy the following Information and a Warning to elect other coverages but they cannot tion from the website https//www.btu/ retirees.org or contact the BTU office eligibility criteria: he second presentation concerned compete with the benefits and cost of the and request an application be mailed to • Former career employees with at the health benefits that we receive. City’s group plan. T you. Please include your City of Boston least 20 years of creditable service, retired Barbara Deveau, Director of the City Marianna Gill of the city’s Health and retirement number (from your pension for at least 15 years, and receiving a pen- of Boston’s Health and Insurance Divi- Insurance Division shared with mem- check) on your application and return it sion amount less than the average pen- sion covered general information about bers that while the negotiations main- to the RTC at the BTU office. sion being paid by the retirement system. Medicare and warned that marketers tained the plans that are now in effect, We hope that you are all doing well Once retired for 20 years, the additional selling other supplemental plans could the City can seek to narrow down plans and that we see you again soon. annual benefit for these “eligible” retirees cause you to lose your group coverage. or choose a different plan depending on

BOSTON UNION TEACHER | October-November, 2020 | 7 Politics in Education Johnny McInnis Campaigning with the BTU he Boston Teach- Ters Union endorses BBOSTON TEACHERSU TUNION candidates for elected #BTUVotes#BTUVotes offices. Members often ask about the process we use to endorse can- didates. Here’s what BTU Endorsed Candidates happens: U.S. PRESIDENT Every two years Joe Biden there is an election process for Boston U.S. VICE PRESIDENT City elected offices. Kamala Harris We engage in endors- Johnny McInnis ing candidates for BTU Political Director U.S. SENATOR – MASSACHUSETTS Boston City Council Edward Markey and we have endorsed candidates who campaign for Mayor, who’s election cycle is every U.S. CONGRESS – MASSACHUSETTS four years. The following year we engage in endorsing candidates MA 2nd Congressional - James McGovern for Massachusetts state legislative offices. This election also occurs MA 3rd Congressional - Lori Trahan every two years. Candidates for state offices campaign for re-elec- MA 5th Congressional - Katherine Clark tion if they are an incumbent or to be newly elected if a candidate is MA 7th Congressional - Ayanna Pressley challenging an incumbent or campaigning for an open seat for an MA 9th Congressional - William Keating elected office. During the election cycle, both incumbents (those who are cur- MASSACHUSETTS STATE SENATE INCUMBENTS rently in office) and new candidates will reach out to the Boston State Senator Julian Cyr, Cape and Islands Teachers Union, requesting an endorsement. The BTU responds to State Senator Patricia Jehlen, Second Middlesex this request by sending a questionnaire with issues that are impor- State Senator Mike Brady, Second Plymouth and Bristol tant to our members. After a completed questionnaire is returned, State Senator Marc Pacheco, First Plymouth and Bristol the COPE committee (Committee on Political Education) will State Senator Patrick O’Connor, Plymouth and Norfolk review it to decide if the candidate should be interviewed for a rec- State Senator Nick Collins, First Suffolk ommendation to the executive board (also known as the E-Board). State Senator Rebecca Rausch, Norfolk, Bristol and Middlesex The decision to make a recommendation to the E-Board is made by State Senator Karen Spilka, Second Middlesex and Norfolk a 2/3 vote by the COPE Committee members. Next, the E-Board State Senator Walter Timilty, Norfolk, Bristol and Plymouth receives the recommendation and reviews information about the candidates. A vote is then held by the E-Board members to decide MASSACHUSETTS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES INCUMBENTS whether the candidate should be recommended to the membership. State Representative Thomas Vitolo, 15th Norfolk Again a 2/3 vote is required. Lastly, a vote is held at BTU monthly State Representative Thomas Stanley, 9th Middlesex membership meetings during which members have the chance to State Representative Christine Barber, 34th Middlesex approve or oppose candidates. A 2/3 vote is again required to pass. State Representative Liz Miranda, 5th Suffolk Once the BTU endorsement is approved through this process, State Representative Jon Santiago, 9th Suffolk the true work begins. The Political Director will contact the can- State Representative Nika Elugardo, 15th Suffolk didates to discuss their campaign. The BTU will hold member-to- State Representative Kevin Honan, 17th Suffolk member phone banks on behalf of the candidate, allowing members State Representative David Rogers, 24th Middlesex the opportunity to get involved with the campaign of an endorsed State Representative Daniel Ryan, 2nd Suffolk candidate. If any members are interested in assisting with phone banking, NON-INCUMBENTS FOR MASSACHUSETTS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES they can contact the Political Director for this stipend opportu- Erika Uyterhoeven, 27th Middlesex nity. Members can also volunteer to support a campaign by door Brandy Fluker-Oakley, 12th Suffolk knocking and handing out flyers. Unfortunately during COVID, Rob Consalvo, 14th Suffolk campaigns have not been able to reach constituents by holding Emmanuel Dockter, 5th Plymouth gatherings or other types of in-person events. Candidates have had to resort to online events to talk about their campaigns and fund- raising. Some candidates have chosen to leave door hangers with Vote Yes on 2 – Ranked Choice Voting information about their campaign and talk to constituents socially distanced when encountered at the doors. ES on 2 began as a grassroots-driven movement to build awareness around an improvement to BEAT (BTU Electoral Action Team) is the group we use to Your elections known as Ranked Choice Voting (RCV). RCV helps reduce the issues of vote-split- engage our members in the election process. Ideally, we like to have ting and so-called “spoiler” candidates -- common problems which often put pressure on candidates at least five members from each school on this team. They have an to drop out, and which prevent fresh, diverse voices from running for office in the first place. opportunity to participate with how we interact with candidates RCV levels the playing field -- giving more choice, and guaranteeing a stronger voice for every both during and after elections. Because even after a candidate is voter. It eliminates worries about casting a “wasted” vote, regardless of whether or not your favorite elected, it is still important to make sure they are supporting what candidate is deemed the most “electable,” or whether they have the biggest bank account, or whether matters. When participating with any political action, members are they drop out before election day after you’ve voted early. RCV encourages candidates to run more requested to do so only outside of school hours. If you are interest- positive and issue-based campaigns, and it ensures that candidates win with over 50% support from ed in participating with the BEAT please contact Political Direc- their district. For a short 1-minute primer on how RCV works, check out the video on the YES on 2 tor, Johnny McInnis at [email protected] or Political Organizer, website. (yeson2rcv.com) Roberto Jimenez at [email protected]. This year, YES on 2 volunteers certified 128,780 signatures with the Secretary of the Common- Voting for candidates has changed this past election cycle. The wealth, placing Ranked Choice Voting on the November 3, 2020 ballot. Now, with only a handful of September Primary saw more people voting statewide in many weeks left, each of us must answer the call to get this initiative over the finish line. years. There were three ways to vote: mail in ballot, early voting or ere’s another example in person. The same thing will be true for the November election. If Hof an election which re- you choose to vote by mail, you can request a ballot by going to the ally could have used Ranked Secretary of State website for an application. Once you receive your Choice Voting. This is the ballot, members are encouraged by the BTU to mail it back as soon democratic primary from as possible. This is important because if your ballot is not received the 3rd Congressional Dis- prior to election day it will not be counted. Early voting occurs at trict. designated locations around the state within your municipal city. There were so many can- #BTUvotes began to encourage BTU members to vote in every didates in this race that the election. All elections are important including those that do not winner received only 22% occur during the regular election cycle (for example if a seat is support. Lori Trahan is vacated by an elected official). Primary elections are important now one of the biggest ad- when multiple candidates of the same party are campaigning for vocates in congress for RCV the same elected position. After the Primary, the official November because she was in this crazy election will take place. This November we will vote on who will 10-way race. be President of the United States. BTU members are encouraged The 1st and 2nd place finishers were separated by only 137 votes. Now imagine you were a voter for to take a photo when they vote and upload it on their social media one of the underdog candidates and it came down to such a close race between the top 2. If you voted account using the #BTUvotes. No matter which process you choose for any of the other 8 candidates, you didn’t get a say at all. to vote, upload your photo to support the importance of voting. If you would like more information or would like to help with How RCV Helps anything mentioned is this article please, please contact Political ith RCV, voters get backup choices. If you supported an underdog candidate and they were Director, Johnny McInnis at [email protected] or Political Orga- eliminated, your vote would count for your 2nd choice instead. Your vote can never be wasted nizer, Roberto Jimenez at [email protected]. W and your voice is always heard. 8 | BOSTON UNION TEACHER | October-November, 2020