PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE 40 RECTOR STREET TRAVEL DESK Forget Talk Of A Dark Age, Randi Herman, CSA First In Santa Clara,Cuba, Let’s Push On With Health Vice President, Is Retiring. Retirees Salsa and Education Initiatives 2 Henry Rubio Accepts Role 5 and Merengue.14

Feb. 2017 Volume 50, Number 6 American Federation NEWS of School Administrators, COUNCIL OF SCHOOL SUPERVISORS AND ADMINISTRATORS AFL-CIO Local 1 Union Girds CREATIVE LEADERSHIP to Oppose ‘A Shared Responsibility’: 6 Schools, 4,000 Students Constitutional Partership of School Leaders Keeps Campus Humming Convention BY CHUCK WILBANKS one. In a statewide Sienna College poll conducted in June, respon- How bad could a Consti- dents supported holding a con- tutional Convention be for New vention by a 68-19 percent margin. Yorkers? But would the reality of a con- Let us count the ways. vention fulfill the promise? Against the current political People fed up with corruption backdrop of public anger at gov- and dysfunction in Albany could ernment, few solutions might be surprised to learn that conven- appear more appealing than a tion delegates would likely be the no-holds barred Constitutional same lawmakers and lobbyists the Convention, where everything is public is angry about. If you don’t on the table and all change is pos- trust the prominent and behind- sible. the-scene faces in Albany now, just While the issue is not exactly wait until they go behind closed burning among New York resi- doors and start monkeying with dents right now, it is likely to heat the Constitution. up before November, when voters The state Constitution man- will decide if Albany will spend an dates that voters decide every estimated $300 million to hold Continued on Page 5 CLEM RICHARDSON n A dream team, Principals from l to r: John Powers of Lehman HS, Melissa Ramos of Schuylerville Preparatory HS, Jason Wagner of Pelham Lab HS, Maria Herrera of Renaissance HS of Theater and A Bruised DeVos Wins Senate Vote Technology, and Greg Fucheck of Bronx River HS, and Yira Salcedo of Westchester Square Academy.

BY CLEM RICHARDSON Theater and Technology), a commitment that as a etsy DeVos was confirmed Feb. loaded Senate phone lines and John Powers (Lehman campus and as a community B7 as the eleventh U.S. Secretary ‘No’ votes of two GOP defectors, magine you run one of High School), Yira Salcedo we’re not just making sure of Education by a single vote. the vote was tied, and for the first six schools, with a com- (Westchester Square that our individual schools Mrs. DeVos is a billionaire time in history, the vice president bined student body of Academy), Melissa Ramos are doing well and striving, heiress who has no experience as had to cast the deciding vote for close to four thousand, (Schuylerville Preparatory we want to make sure that an educator but is a fierce backer a cabinet nominee. The scrutiny that share a building. High School), and Jason all schools on campus will of charter, private and religious and bruising national opposition INow imagine you’re also Wagner (Pelham Lab High be successful,” said Herrera. schools. During an embarrassing tarnished her legitimacy and left charged with instituting School). “That’s kind of a shared confirmation hearing in front of public education advocates impas- some of the most challeng- Get these school leaders responsibility. So not only the Senate Committee on Health, sioned. ing and high profile educa- in the same room and the are you the principal of one Education, Labor and Pensions, she “The fact that someone with tional initiatives in the city camaraderie is clear. They showed no grasp of fundamental no experience in public education – Restorative Justice, Advance laugh a lot and occasionally Members At Work, Making News debates in education policy and other than working to subvert it is Placement Courses for All, finish each other’s sentences. 3 PAGES, 8-10 refused to oppose the presence now going to be responsible for and the Learning Partners They say they also meet of guns in schools, asserting that overseeing the education of our Program. often, text even more, and, individual school, but you’re grizzlies in Wyoming may make nation’s children is truly distress- The way to make it all through the help of walkie also responsible for the entire guns necessary in schools there. ing,” CSA President Ernest Logan work? If you’re one of the talkies, pride themselves on campus.” She was later accused of lying said after the vote. six principals on the Herman being in constant communi- “Having open lines of about financial matters and com- “That being said, we look H. Lehman campus in the cation during the school day. communication supports mitting plagiarism in answers to forward to Mrs. DeVos fulfilling Bronx, you do it together, Though they run six alignment and coherence written questions from committee the promise to ‘address the needs which is hardly as simple schools, they each take own- of building wide policies, members. of all parents and students’ as as it seems, according to ership of the building they especially around safety and Despite an all-night she assumes this post. We will be principals Greg Fucheck share. security protocols,” wrote speech-making marathon, over- watching.” (Bronx River High School), “One of the things that Salcedo, who was called away Maria Herrera (Renaissance makes our partnership really during the interview. “For – CW High School of Musical work is that we have made Continued on Page 10 2 CSA NEWS Feb. 2017 Feb. 2017 CSA NEWS PRESIDENT’S PAGE Prospect Of Free Riders And Forget Talk of a Dark Age: A New Supreme Court Justice BY CHUCK WILBANKS

Unions across the country Council of School Let’s Lead by Example Supervisors & Administrators may soon have to confront a national free rider law. American Federation of School Administrators, AFL-CIO, Local 1 It’s a Good Time For the City to Play Offense By Ernest A. Logan On Feb. 1, two GOP repre- sentatives introduced H.R.785, a 40 Rector St., NY, NY 10006 Phone: (212) 823-2020 hen I saw thousands of social leaps that could stand them in good national version of so-called right- Fax: (212) 962-6130 Americans marching stead for years. If they have learning disabil- to-work legislation that already www.csa-nyc.org shoulder-to-shoulder in ities, those can be identified and corrected exists in more than half the states. President the Women’s Marches of early. Three-year-olds have been successfully In the Orwellian language Ernest A. Logan Jan. 21, I was struck by educated for generations, through a variety of favored by anti-labor forces, the Executive Vice President Wthe number of parents carrying babies and highly regarded approaches. authors, Steve King of Iowa and Mark Cannizzaro toddlers or pushing them in carriages through This is an opportunity that has to be South Carolina’s Joe Wilson, First Vice President Henry Rubio the tidal wave of humanity. There are so extended to our homeless children, who claim the bill will “preserve and many of these tiny new people. As a New often don’t even have access to the 4-year- protect the free choice of indi- Treasurer Christopher Ogno Yorker and educator, I had one of those light- olds’ program because of family transience. vidual employees to form, join, Secretary ning bolt moments: children are still being But we have to change that for them and for or assist labor organizations, or to Sandy DiTrapani born as if all is well in the world, and we have our future economy. Research establishes a refrain from such activities.” Vice Presidents to do right by them. strong connection between a young child’s Simply put, such legislation Debra Handler At least in New York, serving the needs early experiences and his brain development. allows union members to opt- Lois Lee of very young children has become a top Homelessness in early childhood is associ- out of paying dues. Their unions Ronald Williams Nancy Russo, Retiree Chapter priority. Of all the initiatives envisioned by ated with poor early development, academic will still represent the members, Mayor de Blasio, Universal Pre-Kindergarten is achievement and engagement, as well as sig- and the members will still enjoy Executive Director Operations one that has surely succeeded. In three years, nificant social emotional delays, and under- the benefits of collective bargain- Erminia Claudio the number of 4-year-olds in UPK rose from par social skills. Homeless children must have ing. But since some members General Counsel 20,000 to 70,000. A recent report card shows access to experiences that improve their long- David Grandwetter won’t pay dues, the unions may a job pretty well done, with some need for improvement, and term educational outlook.* find themselves economically that’s nothing short of miraculous. When these children reach A strong UPK program for homeless 3- and 4-year-olds is harmed, eventually spending Executive Director Field Services Sana Q. Nasser our elementary, middle and high schools, they will have a better needed now. The program can reach them if it becomes easier to more than they take in and strug- chance of succeeding. access and is brought 100% under the supervision of the DOE. gling to stay afloat. Field Directors Juanita Bass, Mildred Boyce, We’re in a moment when millions of people wonder if we’re Despite best intentions, the ACS isn’t equipped to provide gen- It is not yet clear how a federal James Harrigan, Christine Martin, about to plunge into a new dark age. Many fear that cities with right to work law would impact Daisy O’Gorman, Mercedes Qualls large liberal, minority and immigrant populations will be penal- a strong union state such as New Assistant Field Directors ized by a new administration they didn’t vote for. This is no Let’s push ahead with bold plans, York, which has no such law and Eleanor Andrew, Mauro Bressi, time to crouch in place until the storm clouds pass over us. It’s Laverne Burrowes, Kenneth Llinas has not supported such a position. Charles Dluzniewski, Nancy Esposito, time to lead aggressively by example. The mayor should now public health and education initiaves On a purely economic level, work- Aura Gangemi, Ellie Greenberg, fulfill his larger vision of expanding UPK to 3-year-olds and to ers in states with right to work Ray Gregory, Robert Jeanette, more homeless children, and the city should include these ini- that would improve people’s lives. Kate Leonard, Monica McDonald, laws make $6,109 a year (12.1%) Dorothy Morris, Frank Patterson, tiatives in the DOE budget so future mayors cannot easily gut less annually than workers in Ralph Santiago, Shelli Sklar, Wanda Soto, this invaluable de Blasio legacy. other states ($44,401, compared MaryAnn Tucker, George Young • • • uine education experiences and shouldn’t be struggling to share with $50,511), according to sta- that responsibility with DOE. DOE should bring UPK programs tistics compiled by the AFL-CIO. Grievance Director et’s be clear: this isn’t just about creating more babysitting directly to families by creating schools, onsite, in family shel- Yet despite the hurdles of col- Robert J. Reich facilities so middle and lower income parents can work. ters (Tier II shelters). ACS’s role would be to provide associated lecting dues, some right-to-work Assistant Directors It’s about actually beginning to educate 3-year-olds. Under social services. DOH and DHS would play similar important states have nevertheless seen the Carol Atkins, Alex Castillo, Ed. D L Robert Colon, Jermaine Garden, Dale Kelly the right conditions, children of this age can take cognitive and roles, too. The precedent for these integrated services has already rise of strong unions where orga- Marlene Lazar, Ph.D, Steve Rosen been established through the mayor’s community Director of Communications school model. Clem Richardson Women’s Leadership School • • • Assistant Director of Communications Corey Bachman illing out UPK applications is not high on Director of Political Affairs homeless families’ priority lists. Nor can most Herman Merritt Advanced Placement F homeless families predict where they will be Assistant Director of Political Affairs living from month to month and where their chil- Gabe Gallucci dren could realistically attend UPK. It makes sense to City and State Make Budget Proposals Assistant Director carve out safe, suitable spaces inside shelters, starting BY KATE GIBSON John Khani realistically with the family shelters that DHS funds. Special Assistant to President Communal spaces within most of those facilities can Gary Goldstein The first month of the year brought be transformed into real preschools. A substantial CSA Conference Chair budget proposals from Gov. Andrew number of our homeless children live in these sites; Pierre Lehmuller Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio, with it would be a great beginning. CSA Historian education a major piece of both fiscal Why suggest such bold plans on behalf of our Manfred Korman plans. youngest children at a time when so many citi- CSA Retiree Chapter Gov. Cuomo’s fiscal year 2018 calls for Gayle Lockett, Chair zens are afraid the federal government is going to increasing education aid to $25.6 billion, Mark Brodsky, Director gut public health and public education entirely? an increase of $1 billion, or 4.1 percent. His Because it’s the moment for cities to play offense, proposed $2.1 billion increase in school pushing ahead with initiatives that improve peo- aid over the next two years would repre- ple’s lives. The cities that had stunning turnouts CSA NEWS sent the largest budget for education in the in the January 21 Women’s Marches should stand Editor Chuck Wilbanks state’s history, but still falls short of what together to preserve and advance environmental Associate Editor Kate Gibson the State Education Department sought. Design Consultant Michele Pacheco protections, the minimum wage and other workers’ Fiscal watchdog Citizens Budget Production Assistant Christine Altman rights, social justice, healthcare and public educa- Commission, or CBC, applauded the tion. As the nation’s most economically powerful proposed $961 million increase in city and its cradle of innovation and creativity, CHARLES WILBANKS Foundation Aid, the basic operating for- n New York is expected to lead the way in most of CSA President Ernest Logan, Mayor Bill de Blasio and Chancellor Carmen mula category for school funding, because Farina met with students in an advanced placement English literature course at these areas. Let’s start with early childhood educa- CSA News (004-532) is published it includes changes in poverty data to monthly except July and August for $35 Young Women’s Leadership School of Astoria on Jan. 17. As a few dozen print tion, where our city has already started to make a direct more funding to high-need districts. per year per member by CSA, 40 Rector and television reporters crowded around, they discussed Virginia Woolf’s “A shining mark. St., NY, NY 10006. Periodical postage The group noted, though, that significant paid at Manhattan, NY, and additional Room of One’s Own.” A press conference followed, announcing a surge in AP money still flows to affluent districts. mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send classes throughout the city, many in schools which never were able to offer * Early Childhood Homelessness in the United address changes to CSA News, 40 Assembly Democrats and other advo- Rector St., NY, NY 10006. them before. See our story on page 9. States: 50-State Profile, Administration for Children and Families, January 2016. CSA NEWS Feb. 2017 Feb. 2017 CSA NEWS 3 PRESIDENT’S PAGE Prospect Of Free Riders And Upcoming Forget Talk of a Dark Age: at ABENY A New Supreme Court Justice On Feb. 4, ABENY cele- brated its first Black History BY CHUCK WILBANKS Protection Agency during the Month celebration at the Republicans have introduced a national Reagan years, slashed the agency’s Brooklyn Historical Society. Let’s Lead by Example Unions across the country budget by 22 percent and was so Twenty winners of the may soon have to confront a version of state legislation called by wedded to neutering environ- ABENY Black History Month national free rider law. the Orwellian name ‘Right-To-Work’ mental protection she ultimately Essay Contest were honored. It’s a Good Time For the City to Play Offense By Ernest A. Logan On Feb. 1, two GOP repre- resigned in disgrace. ABENY’s second Black History sentatives introduced H.R.785, a aimed at hobbling America’s unions. Justice Scalia’s death derailed Month celebration will be social leaps that could stand them in good national version of so-called right- what anti-union forces had pre- Feb. 19 from 3-6 pm at the stead for years. If they have learning disabil- to-work legislation that already sumed would be a 5-4 Supreme Bedford YMCA. The topic ities, those can be identified and corrected exists in more than half the states. Court decision for the plaintiff will be Preparing Our Children The pair introduced the leg- early. Three-year-olds have been successfully In the Orwellian language nizers have convinced members in Friedrichs, a case brought by to be UNCOMMON TO THE islation quietly, on a busy news educated for generations, through a variety of favored by anti-labor forces, the of the benefits of collective bar- a teacher who argued that pay- CORE. The guest speaker will day at the White House, when highly regarded approaches. authors, Steve King of Iowa and gaining. ing union dues were an uncon- be Dr. Linda Michelle Baron. President Trump threatened to This is an opportunity that has to be South Carolina’s Joe Wilson, As CSA’s Executive Vice stitutional infringement on her Educators and parents are send troops into Mexico, his extended to our homeless children, who claim the bill will “preserve and President Mark Cannizzaro argued First Amendment rights because welcome. Refreshments will national security advisor threat- often don’t even have access to the 4-year- protect the free choice of indi- when the Friedrichs V. California unions spent money lobbying be served. ened Iran, and the President, in a olds’ program because of family transience. vidual employees to form, join, Teachers’ Association case was for causes with which she did Principals of all grades are meeting kicking off Black History But we have to change that for them and for or assist labor organizations, or to still on the front burner, union not agree. invited to nominate a student Month, asserted that “Frederick our future economy. Research establishes a refrain from such activities.” members and their officers may Although Justice Scalia had who has done outstanding Douglass is an example of some- strong connection between a young child’s Simply put, such legislation actually be energized in the face in earlier opinions been hos- service for the school for an body who’s done an amazing job early experiences and his brain development. allows union members to opt- of threats to collective bargaining. tile to union members who ABENY Service Award. The and is getting recognized more Homelessness in early childhood is associ- out of paying dues. Their unions While bill introductions are do not pay dues, or free riders, names of nominees should and more, I notice.” ated with poor early development, academic will still represent the members, not typically a cause for fan- his questioning during oral be sent to by March 31 to It was also the day President achievement and engagement, as well as sig- and the members will still enjoy fare – a piece of legislation must Dr. Sheilah Bobo at sbobo@ Trump nominated U.S. Federal nificant social emotional delays, and under- the benefits of collective bargain- wend its way through subcom- schools.nyc.gov. Appeals Court Judge Neil Gorsuch par social skills. Homeless children must have ing. But since some members mittee hearings, full committee Cases just like Graduating high school to the U.S. Supreme Court. Judge access to experiences that improve their long- won’t pay dues, the unions may hearings, and myriad alterations seniors are invited to apply Gorsuch is thought by his sup- Friedrich will find term educational outlook.* find themselves economically – this proposed law could well for an ABENY Scholarship. porters to be a perfect replace- A strong UPK program for homeless 3- and 4-year-olds is harmed, eventually spending catch fire with the current GOP, their way to court. The deadline for submitting ment for the late Antonin Scalia, needed now. The program can reach them if it becomes easier to more than they take in and strug- which controls both houses of applications is April 30. For the ultra-conservative justice access and is brought 100% under the supervision of the DOE. gling to stay afloat. Congress. As of press time, no details, call Dr. Bobo at (917) who died in Feb. 2016. Gorsuch Despite best intentions, the ACS isn’t equipped to provide gen- It is not yet clear how a federal companion legislation had yet 412-9099 or email sheilah- is considered a literal-minded right to work law would impact been introduced in the Senate. arguments in Friedrichs sug- [email protected]. a strong union state such as New The bill’s authors are notori- interpreter of the Constitution, gested he would cast an anti- Let’s push ahead with bold plans, York, which has no such law and ous. basing decisions on what people union vote. After his death, the has not supported such a position. Wilson became famous in in the current century believe the Court deadlocked on the case, public health and education initiaves On a purely economic level, work- 2009 when he screamed “You lie!” authors of the original document so the law supporting unions ers in states with right to work at President Obama during a joint intended in the 1700s. remained unchanged. Teachers’ that would improve people’s lives. laws make $6,109 a year (12.1%) session of Congress, a rare and for While his record on labor Republicans refused to even less annually than workers in many a shocking breakdown in issues is mixed, legal scholars say hold a hearing on U.S. Federal Retirement other states ($44,401, compared decorum and civility. King was a Gorsuch’s decisions show increas- Appeals Court Judge Merrick uine education experiences and shouldn’t be struggling to share with $50,511), according to sta- virulent proponent of the lie that ing skepticism for the power Garland, President Obama’s System that responsibility with DOE. DOE should bring UPK programs tistics compiled by the AFL-CIO. President Obama wasn’t born in of regulatory agencies like the pick to replace Justice Scalia, directly to families by creating schools, onsite, in family shel- Yet despite the hurdles of col- the United States and once com- National Labor Relations Board, leaving the seat open. Jan. 2017 Unit Values ters (Tier II shelters). ACS’s role would be to provide associated lecting dues, some right-to-work pared immigrants to “livestock” as a stance perhaps befitting the son Now Judge Gorsuch stands social services. DOH and DHS would play similar important states have nevertheless seen the he proposed an electric fence for of Anne Gorsuch, who as admin- ready, and cases nearly identical Diversified Equity roles, too. The precedent for these integrated services has already rise of strong unions where orga- our southern border. istrator of the Environmental to Friedrichs wait to be heard. Fund: 82.351 been established through the mayor’s community Bond Fund: 16.910 school model. International Equity • • • FISCAL YEAR 2018 Fund: 9.425 illing out UPK applications is not high on Inflation Protection homeless families’ priority lists. Nor can most Fund: 10.346 F homeless families predict where they will be Socially Responsive living from month to month and where their chil- Equity Fund: 15.227 dren could realistically attend UPK. It makes sense to City and State Make Budget Proposals carve out safe, suitable spaces inside shelters, starting BY KATE GIBSON cates want billions more in school aid $50 million through 2021 to increase www.trsnyc.org realistically with the family shelters that DHS funds. funding to settle what is owed from a internet speeds, following up on the city’s Communal spaces within most of those facilities can The first month of the year brought 2007 court case. vow for access to computer science educa- be transformed into real preschools. A substantial budget proposals from Gov. Andrew The budget includes $800 million to tion for all by 2025. number of our homeless children live in these sites; Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio, with expand prekindergarten for three- and De Blasio is proposing $15 mil- it would be a great beginning. education a major piece of both fiscal four-year-olds in high-need districts, and lion to fund nearly 23,000 spots for the Visit CSA On Why suggest such bold plans on behalf of our plans. $150 million for services such as before- city’s middle school summer program, youngest children at a time when so many citi- Gov. Cuomo’s fiscal year 2018 calls for and-after school programs and medical and $14.3 million to expand the DOE’s Facebook! zens are afraid the federal government is going to increasing education aid to $25.6 billion, and dental care in high-needs schools. Summer in the City program. Another gut public health and public education entirely? Read about our union and an increase of $1 billion, or 4.1 percent. His It would also provide $35 million $9.3 million is designated to finance Because it’s the moment for cities to play offense, its members, as well as edu- proposed $2.1 billion increase in school for public after-school programs in the 65,000 slots in the Summer Youth pushing ahead with initiatives that improve peo- aid over the next two years would repre- state’s 16 Empire State Poverty Reduction Employment Program. cational and political issues ple’s lives. The cities that had stunning turnouts sent the largest budget for education in the Initiative (ESPRI) communities, creating And, the proposal would spend $6.3 affecting us. Join the discus- in the January 21 Women’s Marches should stand state’s history, but still falls short of what another 22,000 spots. million to hire 200 additional crossing sion at https://www.face- together to preserve and advance environmental the State Education Department sought. Gov. Cuomo is also calling for for an guards and 100 supervisors with the idea book.com/followcsa/. To protections, the minimum wage and other workers’ Fiscal watchdog Citizens Budget investment of $163 million to make col- of guarding all school crosswalks. make sure CSA posts appear rights, social justice, healthcare and public educa- Commission, or CBC, applauded the lege tuition free at SUNY and CUNY for The mayor’s budget is “consistent with on your own Facebook news tion. As the nation’s most economically powerful proposed $961 million increase in some New Yorkers. the implementation of the administra- feed, “like” the page. Then city and its cradle of innovation and creativity, Foundation Aid, the basic operating for- In New York City, Mayor Bill de Blasio’s tion’s policy agenda, which includes pro- choose “see first” in the New York is expected to lead the way in most of mula category for school funding, because proposal for fiscal year 2018 earmarks posals for expansion of pre-kindergarten “liked” menu. If you have these areas. Let’s start with early childhood educa- it includes changes in poverty data to about $16 million annually for SESIS, the programs, affordable housing initiatives story ideas, comments or tion, where our city has already started to make a direct more funding to high-need districts. much-maligned system for tracking services and improved mental health services,” shining mark. questions, contact Chuck The group noted, though, that significant for special needs students. CBC said. However, the group believes Wilbanks at [email protected]. money still flows to affluent districts. It allocates nearly $500 million to alle- more should be done to better manage * Early Childhood Homelessness in the United org, or Corey Bachman at Assembly Democrats and other advo- viate overcrowding in schools, and almost city agencies. States: 50-State Profile, Administration for Children and [email protected]. Families, January 2016. 4 CSA NEWS Feb. 2017 Feb. 2017 CSA NEWS

Mark From Rector Street Cannizzaro Albany: CSA Prepares to Oppose Tell Your Story (Before Someone Else Tells it for You!) A Constitutional Convention egative sto- sion to appear) as often as possible. Continued from Page 1 ries about our When the anti-public school Think about how you would like others to rec- 20 years whether to have a Constitutional schools, our ognize your brand and include it everywhere and Convention. That referendum falls on this students and our political winds blow stronger, on everything (school website, letterhead, social year’s election date, Nov. 7. Under that law, school leaders media, and school gear). You may want to use a voters would choose delegates in November Nare on the uptick in recent often baseless accusations logo, a catchphrase, your school’s mascot or name 2018 – three from each of the state’s 63 state weeks. Some of these sto- to identify your brand. Principal John Boyle of Senate districts and 15 at-large delegates. In ries appear to be “single and attacks against our Totten Intermediate School has successfully used April 2019, the convention would be held in source” stories where a jour- members increase. the hashtag #justanothergreatdayatIS34 as a brand- April 2019, with the proposed changes being nalist accepts one person’s ing strategy for his school (search that hashtag on coming up for a general vote the following account, and writes a story Twitter and see for yourself). Your brand should November. with little or no indepen- Marketing or branding your school and school communicate a commitment to students and their The state held its last Constitutional dent reporting. It seems community is not only about staving off criticism, families. Your brand is your reputation and rallying Convention in 1967, and delegates made that when the anti-public however. Strategic branding motivates staff and students and staff around it will encourage everyone several proposed changes to the Constitution. Strategic school political winds blow students, it stimulates creative thinking, builds com- to live up to it. Voters rejected each of the proposed amend- stronger, often baseless accu- munity, and celebrating success breeds greater suc- Try to publicize something positive, including ments in the general election. branding sations and attacks against cess. Furthermore, implementing and sustaining a upcoming events, at least two times per week using In 1997, New York voters rejected a con- our members increase. branding strategy creates opportunities for distribu- a variety of media tools. Remember to emphasize vention, partly because of unified opposition motivates In addition to newspaper tive leadership. If you are not already branding your students and school partnerships whenever pos- by labor unions. stories, we have seen blogs school, I suggest you begin working on a plan that sible. Consider using posts, pictures, short video “It’s crucial that we get the word out that staff and created by disgruntled will be ready for implementation by September. The clips, and tweets. Families will follow you on social this could be a debacle for the public inter- employees and heard stories good news is that you can start slowly and that it is media when they know they may see or read about est – in particular for educators and the chil- students, spread throughout a school relatively easy to do using social media. CSA News their child or receive important information about dren they instruct,” said CSA President Ernest community as fact without a reporter Kate Gibson has talked to several members the school and upcoming events. Don’t be afraid Logan. stimulates thought as to the credibility with various approaches and techniques (See story to publicize individual accomplishments, events While advocates believe a convention of the authors. on page 8.) Here are some of my suggestions for designed for fun, philanthropic endeavors and sup- would give citizens a chance to “take back creative Too often, I meet tal- starting: port from elected officials. their government,” making sure the final thinking. ented leaders of schools after Create a small team of technology-minded staff Our competitors and our detractors have become document reflected the public interest would a negative story or other and students and ask them to research schools skilled at promoting their brands and sometimes be no mean feat. form of criticism is made that are already creating a recognized brand. Then, at harming ours. The media and political rivals of The entire document would be up for public. These leaders show evidence of increased stu- brainstorm key aspects of your school that should public education stand to gain from branding their review. Delegates would be free to rewrite, dent performance, positive changes in school culture be recognized. These may include the school’s phi- ideas of education as superior. Disgruntled employ- delete or add anything. and climate, supportive partnerships, community losophy or vision, special events that take place, ees seeking revenge may also try to cause harm. Extremely wealthy individuals and corporations would have the money to involvement, outstanding arts and technology pro- philanthropic endeavors, award-winning teams or • • • grams and heartwarming stories of school communi- clubs, individual student or staff awards, outstand- employ the lobbyists and influence the ties rallying around families to offer support in times ing partnerships, award ceremonies, articulation chool leaders are often humble by nature. politicians to make sure their interests of need. They’re often stories that the “data” may not events, curricular offerings, school plays, concerts However, today’s climate dictates that we can are protected. These people are not inter- tell. Unfortunately, this information has little impact and other performances. A review of the school cal- Sno longer be satisfied with praising our staff ested in cleaning up Albany’s ethical mess when shared in response to an attack. Had these pos- endar may help to identify areas to highlight. and students and recognizing outstanding programs – they are the ones who benefit the most itive elements of the school been shared widely prior within the confines of the school community. We from the system’s dysfunction. to any criticism it is likely that the negative momen- • • • can no longer wait for someone from the outside The stakes in a Constitutional tum would have stalled early or even may have been eview the communication vehicles you will to recognize our work by happenstance. You can vehemently rebuked by supporters. Simply put, com- use. In addition to your school’s website, remain humble and gracious while relentlessly mar- municating positive messages about your school and R Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and keting your brand and school community. promoting your philosophy builds social capital that LinkedIn are all cost-efficient and easy to use. Start telling your own story now or others will be 40 RECTOR STREET can be leveraged when things go wrong. This is just Encourage parents and students to follow these sure to tell it for you! one reason why school “branding” has most recently school accounts. Post positive stories regularly and garnered so much attention. be sure to include students (those who have permis- Mark Cannizzaro is Executive Vice President of CSA. Dr. Randi Herman Retires as Union’s First Vice President, Henry Rubio to Take Over Letters BY CLEM RICHARDSON We Must Fight to Retain elected officials to support our demands. to our children and grandchildren. If we inside and outside of our union if we are CSA First Vice President We realized many years ago that our don’t do it, no one else will. to fend off the destruction of the last, best Randi Herman made the What We’ve Achieved rights as American citizens to vote, to –Donald Singer hope of democracy, the public schools. announcement she is retiring demonstrate, to form and join a union, Retired Assistant Principal, It was also gratifying that most of the at the Jan. 18 Executive Board To the Editor: I write this letter not- even to write letters to editors, were all School, Borough paper’s columnists, especially Bob Reich meeting in Founders’ Hall at ing that my wife and I are enjoying a essential to securing benefits that helped Former President, CSA and his Grievance Corner, addressed var- CSA headquarters. comfortable retirement in Florida and not only us, but many other Americans ious aspects of the social safety net, some After updating the board New York, with good pensions, health as well. This is equally true today. enacted recently and others in effect for on school climate and safety care, Social Security, and Medicare. We I urge everyone to support the CSA Another Call to Action more than eighty years, which face dis- and the Early Childhood spent our careers as New York City edu- Legislative committees, the AFL-CIO, mantling or repeal under the incoming Education directors’ contract, cators, and we are believers in a strong AFSA, the Alliance for Retired Americans, To the Editor: During my career as a presidential administration. In essence, Ms. Herman drew moans public education system. We worked for and any other organizations that fight teacher and a school administrator I often the writers all agree on one salient point: from the group when she said, and are entitled to our retirement ben- for public education and educators. battled with people in and out of the pro- Only if we consolidate our strength within “That brings me to my last efits. Follow their websites and support their fession who would claim there was a con- CSA and unite with other unionists and item, which is to let you know These benefits are now being threat- advocacy. Meet and speak with your tradiction between being an educator and like-minded individuals and groups outside this will be my last report. ened by forces at all levels of govern- elected officials at all levels. Attend local a member a labor union. The Dec. 2016, of the labor movement can we turn aside “I have decided that to ment. As I read daily coverage as well civic, school board, and political party issue of CSA News sums up my arguments these reactionary plans and maintain and everything there is a season, as the analysis in the December issue of meetings. Write a letter to the editor. beautifully. even build on those social safeguards that and this one is mine.” CSA News, I want to urge all CSA mem- Perhaps you might wish to get active, Your excellent front page analysis have been what have truly made America The Board gave her a bers – active and retired – to use the even to run for office. At family and (Battle for Survival of Public Education) of great. The writers’ message is clear: If you standing ovation. rights we have as citizens to fight and social gatherings, remind the attendees the philosophy of Betsy DeVos, nominee don’t like how things are, get up and work In his appreciative remarks, CSA President defend our union accomplishments and that the advantages we cherish didn’t for secretary of education, suggests that if to change them. As labor leader Joe Hill Ernest Logan called Ms. Herman “my pit bull public education in general. just happen – they were demanded, and she is confirmed, she will likely move on put it shortly before he was executed for a when it comes to getting on the Department We all must acknowledge that our must be defended. In short, make your her agenda to privatize the school system. trumped-up murder charge, “Don’t mourn of Education for the silly stuff they do.” retirements, health care, and workplace voice heard. However, unlike many other commenta- – organize!” And though she might retire, he said Ms. protections are the results of hard- At a time when union membership is tors on the subject, you do not consider –Bernard Gordon Herman “is always on call.” fought battles. It was only through unity at an all-time low, it behooves all of us the matter beyond our control and simply Retired Assistant Principal, Ms. Herman joined the Department of and outspokenness that our unions and to reinvigorate our commitment to our throw up your hands in hopeless despair, Middle Schools, Borough Education on Dec. 17, 1977 as a teacher at other advocacy groups were able to get own union. We owe it to ourselves and but instead issue to us a call for action Former Vice President, CSA the Brooklyn Occupational Training Center. CSA NEWS Feb. 2017 Feb. 2017 CSA NEWS 5 From Rector Street Albany: CSA Prepares to Oppose Public Pays Tell Your Story (Before Someone Else Tells it for You!) A Constitutional Convention Price When sion to appear) as often as possible. Continued from Page 1 For the general public, there is one reason Journalism Think about how you would like others to rec- 20 years whether to have a Constitutional Billionaires who want to that is bound to resonate across the entire ognize your brand and include it everywhere and Convention. That referendum falls on this ideological spectrum: Cost. The last conven- on everything (school website, letterhead, social year’s election date, Nov. 7. Under that law, privatize education would tion cost more than $45 million. In today’s Standards media, and school gear). You may want to use a voters would choose delegates in November dollars, that would be nearly $340 million. logo, a catchphrase, your school’s mascot or name 2018 – three from each of the state’s 63 state be well represented. “More than $300 million on a conven- to identify your brand. Principal John Boyle of Senate districts and 15 at-large delegates. In tion!” said Mr. Logan. “Despite Donald in Retreat Totten Intermediate School has successfully used April 2019, the convention would be held in Trump’s claims to the contrary, many of our the hashtag #justanothergreatdayatIS34 as a brand- April 2019, with the proposed changes being Convention are immense for public schools are strapped for cash. That’s a huge BY CLEM RICHARDSON ing strategy for his school (search that hashtag on coming up for a general vote the following employees who rely on collective bargain- sum of money that would be better spent Twitter and see for yourself). Your brand should November. ing – union members. on public education, supporting children in There are many reasons to stop communicate a commitment to students and their The state held its last Constitutional Educators work hard, often under dif- homeless situations, providing support for at a red light. First, it’s the law. More families. Your brand is your reputation and rallying Convention in 1967, and delegates made ficult conditions, and they have a right to people who are suffering, providing parent- importantly, we know the chaos that students and staff around it will encourage everyone several proposed changes to the Constitution. expect that state government will honor the ing classes to prevent abuse. This convention would result if everyone decided to to live up to it. Voters rejected each of the proposed amend- Constitutional commitments regarding sala- would be a terrible waste.” not stop. So, we follow the law, the Try to publicize something positive, including ments in the general election. ries, benefits and retirement. While it is not There are simpler alternatives. If both rule, because it benefits each of us. upcoming events, at least two times per week using In 1997, New York voters rejected a con- a certainty, remember that an open-ended houses of the legislature pass a proposed Journalism – good journalism - a variety of media tools. Remember to emphasize vention, partly because of unified opposition convention could let the enemies of public amendment, voters can then decide on it. used to have rules, too, rules that set students and school partnerships whenever pos- by labor unions. education target much of that. Thus the constitution can be amended (and standards which benefited both the sible. Consider using posts, pictures, short video “It’s crucial that we get the word out that Who, after all, opposes unions and fair has been, many times) through the popular institution and the reading public. clips, and tweets. Families will follow you on social this could be a debacle for the public inter- compensation for public employees more vote without an open-ended convention. One of the most sacred of these media when they know they may see or read about est – in particular for educators and the chil- than the billionaires who want to privatize Gov. Andrew Cuomo, trying to straddle was the three sources rule; informa- their child or receive important information about dren they instruct,” said CSA President Ernest education? Those same billionaires would various political fault lines, has in the past tion, especially in an investigative the school and upcoming events. Don’t be afraid Logan. undoubtedly be well-represented at a con- spoken favorably of a convention. Recently story, had to be confirmed by at least to publicize individual accomplishments, events While advocates believe a convention vention. though, he made no mention of one in his three different sources before editors designed for fun, philanthropic endeavors and sup- would give citizens a chance to “take back In fact, it’s not inconceivable that the 2017 agenda. While political observers took would agree to publish the story. port from elected officials. their government,” making sure the final right to a public education itself could be this as a hopeful sign, the Governor has been Even with those sources, no story Our competitors and our detractors have become document reflected the public interest would threatened. In its current form, the state known to change his mind abruptly. was published or broadcast before the skilled at promoting their brands and sometimes be no mean feat. Constitution reads, “The legislature shall CSA opposes the Convention, as do other person or institution the story was at harming ours. The media and political rivals of The entire document would be up for provide for the maintenance and support of unions including the United Federation of about was given a chance to tell their public education stand to gain from branding their review. Delegates would be free to rewrite, a system of free common schools, wherein all Teachers and the New York State Retired side of the story. ideas of education as superior. Disgruntled employ- delete or add anything. the children of this state may be educated.” A Teachers’ Association. Everyone benefited from this stan- ees seeking revenge may also try to cause harm. Extremely wealthy individuals and convention could conceivably gut that provi- Supporters range from good-government dard. No matter how inflammatory corporations would have the money to sion, and in the process upend the underly- groups to some of the most powerful corpo- the story, an editor could be confi- • • • employ the lobbyists and influence the ing rationale for the 2005 Campaign for Fiscal rations and wealthiest people in the state – dent he was disseminating informa- chool leaders are often humble by nature. politicians to make sure their interests Equity decision by Justice Leland DeGrasse. even if their names are not public. tion that was as close to the truth as However, today’s climate dictates that we can are protected. These people are not inter- The jurist held that the state’s constitution For example, the Committee for a he could get. That also meant he and Sno longer be satisfied with praising our staff ested in cleaning up Albany’s ethical mess was not being followed and ordered the state Constitutional Convention is peopled with his staff were on safe legal ground. and students and recognizing outstanding programs – they are the ones who benefit the most to provide New York City’s schools $5.63 bil- partners from Wall Street law firms and char- The public, meanwhile, could be within the confines of the school community. We from the system’s dysfunction. lion for operating expenses and $9.2 billion ter school advocates, as well as environmental assured that they were getting real can no longer wait for someone from the outside The stakes in a Constitutional for facilities. organization officials and academics. facts upon which they could then act to recognize our work by happenstance. You can to elect their public officials, decide remain humble and gracious while relentlessly mar- which car to buy, or which school to keting your brand and school community. enroll their children. Start telling your own story now or others will be 40 RECTOR STREET Facts, after all, are facts. But facts sure to tell it for you! are a problem when a publication has an agenda. That’s why more sin- Mark Cannizzaro is Executive Vice President of CSA. gle source school stories, one person Dr. Randi Herman Retires as Union’s First saying something bad about public schools, public education or public school leaders, have been cropping Vice President, Henry Rubio to Take Over up in one local media outlet. The enemies of public education – BY CLEM RICHARDSON President position. you can tell who they are because the Ms. Herman said she and same names crop up time and again – inside and outside of our union if we are CSA First Vice President husband Bruce plan to “travel have decided that facts are secondary. to fend off the destruction of the last, best Randi Herman made the and relax.” These negative stories are meant hope of democracy, the public schools. announcement she is retiring The Executive Board voted to bolster in the reader’s mind the It was also gratifying that most of the at the Jan. 18 Executive Board to have CSA Treasurer Henry belief that the New York City pub- paper’s columnists, especially Bob Reich meeting in Founders’ Hall at Rubio replace Ms. Herman as lic school system does not work. As and his Grievance Corner, addressed var- CSA headquarters. First Vice President. school leaders, CSA members are reg- ious aspects of the social safety net, some After updating the board “It is a great honor to have ular targets of these one-sided stories, enacted recently and others in effect for on school climate and safety the opportunity to serve our whose intent is often so malicious more than eighty years, which face dis- and the Early Childhood members in this capacity,” that members refuse to comment for mantling or repeal under the incoming Education directors’ contract, Rubio said. “I look forward to publication for fear – often justifiable presidential administration. In essence, Ms. Herman drew moans advocating for and protecting – that they will be misquoted. the writers all agree on one salient point: from the group when she said, the rights and benefits of our As CSA Communications Director, Only if we consolidate our strength within “That brings me to my last members, and supporting their I can assert that on far too many occa- CSA and unite with other unionists and item, which is to let you know professional growth.” sions I have supplied rebuttal remarks like-minded individuals and groups outside this will be my last report. Mr. Rubio holds an under- to a reporter’s query which never of the labor movement can we turn aside “I have decided that to graduate degree from Fordham n Dr. Randi Herman n Henry Rubio appeared in the finished article. This these reactionary plans and maintain and everything there is a season, University and a graduate is not journalism. This is propaganda, even build on those social safeguards that and this one is mine.” degree from Queens College. and like much propaganda it is dan- have been what have truly made America The Board gave her a Over the next 22 years she rose from teacher He began his educational career gerous because it presents simplified, great. The writers’ message is clear: If you standing ovation. to assistant principal to principal. in 1997 as a Bilingual Studies teacher and was ‘I’m right, they’re wrong’ solutions to don’t like how things are, get up and work In his appreciative remarks, CSA President She worked for Dist. 75 Superintendent an assistant principal at the High School of complex problems. to change them. As labor leader Joe Hill Ernest Logan called Ms. Herman “my pit bull Susan Erber from 1999 to 2002, when she Medical Science and Mary E. Walker Medical Unfortunately, there is not much put it shortly before he was executed for a when it comes to getting on the Department took over as principal at PS 141 in Brooklyn Science Academy in the Bronx before being we can do about one-source sto- trumped-up murder charge, “Don’t mourn of Education for the silly stuff they do.” for a year. Ms. Herman was then named prin- named Principal of A. Philip Randolph ries but recognize them for the bias – organize!” And though she might retire, he said Ms. cipal of PS 23 in Queens, before joining CSA Campus High School. reporting they are, and speak out. We –Bernard Gordon Herman “is always on call.” as First Vice President in 2007, replacing Peter Mr. Rubio and his wife, Wildra, have four can help you point out the falsity of Retired Assistant Principal, Ms. Herman joined the Department of McNally. children. these stories, so people know our side, Middle Schools, Borough Education on Dec. 17, 1977 as a teacher at She served on CSA Executive and Advisory Christopher Ogno will replace Rubio as and know how far once sacrosanct Former Vice President, CSA the Brooklyn Occupational Training Center. boards before assuming the First Vice CSA Treasurer. journalistic standards have fallen. 6 CSA NEWS Feb. 2016 Feb. 2017 CSA NEWS

CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION Legislative Agenda Today’s Challenge: Retaining Teachers Get Involved! Elections Have Consequences e witnessed a beginning of the poorest and the most affluent student bodies Following is part of the testimony CSA submitted on Jan. 24 to New York City a new era in by 25%. The requirement that schools staff all education last Council’s Committee on Education, led by Council Member Daniel Dromm. classrooms with “highly-qualified teachers” has Wmonth. Many of us were • • • created challenges for many schools. not happy with No Child …Administrators and recruiters must work dil- Expecting that new teachers are up for the task Nationally, we know that schools lose between Left Behind or the Race to igently to ensure all students have teachers with to support and help every student can create an 1 and 2 billion dollars annually in attrition the Top but now with a content area knowledge and teaching skills nec- overwhelming burden that may lead to burn out. costs because many teachers leave the profes- radical change in the direc- essary to help its students achieve at the highest The result is that new teachers are the most at risk sion, according to research from the Alliance for tion of the Department of academic standards, regardless of their individual of leaving the profession. Research shows that 14% Excellent Education. Frequently, this shift occurs Education, we are in a fight learning styles or needs. Substantial funding is of new teachers leave by the end of their first year; among teachers who move from poor to non- for survival. needed to recruit, train, reward, and retain highly 33% leave within 3 years of beginning teaching; poor schools, from high-minority to low-minority Are these words overly qualified teachers. To make teaching and learning and almost 50% leave within 5 years. These attri- schools and from urban to suburban schools. dramatic? I don’t think so. successful, schools must have the appropriate tion rates mean students continually face inex- Let’s look at the record of resources to execute this plan. perienced teachers and schools face an economic ome suggestions to improve the current sys- We must Betsy DeVos, nominee for burden of constantly hiring and training new tem include targeted financial resources allo- S the Secretary of Education. aving teachers with most of these qualifica- teachers. Additionally, high turnover rates also cated specifically to improve, as well as maintain fight to Despite having no personal tions can make a difference in the lives of our impact the organizational structure, team building teacher recruitment and retention. Funding must H experience in education, students. However, current data show that the cohesiveness, as well as, planning and implemen- address the challenges of teacher quality, includ- improve, Ms. DeVos’s wealth and demand for new teachers is largely due to teacher tation of a comprehensive curriculum. ing teacher preparation and qualifications of new power allowed her to play a turnover. Retaining teachers is the greatest chal- teachers, recruitment and hiring, induction, pro- protect key role in destroying public lenge facing schools today! study of teachers in NYC found that student fessional development, and retention. Effective schools in her home state Although salary is a key ingredient in strength- achievement was most enhanced by having a induction and mentoring programs have been schools at A of Michigan. For over 20 ening the teacher pool, it is not the only reason fully certified teacher who had graduated from a shown to increase retention rates in many varied years she has championed for teacher shortage. Excessive workloads, high- university pre-service program, had a strong aca- schools. Supporting new teachers with high-qual- the state so-called school choice stakes tests tied to evaluations, and views of demic background and had more than 2 years of ity induction programs that lighten initial class through vouchers, char- teaching as a transitional profession, contribute experience. Having an inexperienced teacher with load to accommodate coaching, mentorship, and level. ter schools and for-profit enormously to teacher turnover. New teachers are a temporary license, which is the teaching profile collaborative planning would accelerate effec- schools. Twenty years later, likely to be assigned to low performing schools. most common in high-minority, low-income tiveness. Focused professional development on Michigan’s schools are near the bottom of the list And, as we know, these precious and needy stu- schools with ongoing teacher turnover, hurts delivery of instruction, student work, test scores, of states on the NAEP exams. Charter schools there dents should be assigned our very best teachers. students’ achievement most. In combination, and linguistic and cultural competence would score worse than traditional public schools through- Teaching students with special needs can be improvements in these qualifications reduce the yield quality instruction for improved teaching out the state. Part of the problem is the lack of regula- tough for even the most seasoned professionals. gap in achievement between the schools serving and learning.

SPEAKER SERIES Bob Grievance Corner Reich Acclaimed Documentary And Now For Something Completely Different: Facts! Examines Standardized Testing ake news and alterna- you to draft it upon receipt, when the matter is fresh tive facts are terms that and you can recall anything that is germane, such as BY CSA STAFF we have only recently Speaking with any investigator discussions that were held. come to know. I assure without representation from If you are summoned to a disciplinary meeting SA and the CSA Retiree Fyou that this column will by your supervisor, you are entitled to be repre- Chapter are pleased to not contain such disregard your union is both foolish and sented by your union. Upon being summoned, you announce the second of reality. Instead, I bring should immediately contact your CSA field director event in our speaker you only truthful informa- dangerous. Call us! to request representation. A representative can often Cseries, Curtis Chin, the award tion to inform you of your help to resolve a situation or can help to ensure that winning movie maker, who rights and to protect you in your rights are protected. will show his acclaimed doc- your work. Your collective bargaining agreement defines a • • • umentary Tested. Many members have grievance as, “a complaint by a supervisor so covered The movie comes at a been asking whether they by the Agreement that there has been as to him/her ew to the Union? Thinking of retiring? You crucial time, as the gap in should speak with inves- a viable, misinterpretation or inequitable application should understand your TRS benefits. You opportunities for different Every tigators from the School of any of the provisions of this Agreement.” There can go the Teacher Retirement System (TRS) races in America remains extreme. Safety Division who are are specific time requirements to file a grievance: website, log in and insure that your benefi- Nowhere is this more evident than conducting an investigation. If it is one that alleges a violation of contractual Nciaries are correct, make changes in your TDA contri- grievance our nation’s top public schools. The answer is yes, but only clauses other than per session, it must be submitted butions and obtain estimates of what your pension In New York City, blacks and must be when you are accompanied in writing within 20 school days following the actual will be. Having the information before utilizing a Hispanics make up 70% of the by a representative from knowledge of the act or condition on which the pension consultant will better enable you to make a city’s school-aged population, yet submitted your union. The protocol complaint is based. A grievance addressing a matter final decision as to retirement. you should follow with SSD related to per session must be submitted in writing Colleagues are often viewed as knowledgeable, in writing is the same you follow when within five school days of the actual knowledge but when it comes to your contract, the only people The opportunity there is an investigation by of the act or condition on which the complaint is you should put your faith in are the people at CSA. within a OSI, OEO or SCI. Ask the based. Failure to grieve in a timely matter can result Should you have any questions, do not hesitate to gap in education investigator for his/her busi- in its denial. contact the field director or the union directly. specific ness card and the case num- Your union protects you and represents you. In remains extreme. ber, immediately contact Liz • • • unity, we will continue to grow and help school time. Del’Alba at (212) 823-2020 hould you receive a letter for your official file, leaders have a voice that is recognized by gov- or email her at liz@csa-nyc. you have the right to attach a rebuttal. I urge ernment. Attend district and borough CSA meet- they represent less than 5% at the org. She will take some information from you, reach you to draft a rebuttal and send the original ings, take advantage of the courses offered by the city’s most elite public high schools. out to the investigator to schedule the meeting and letter and your draft to either your CSA field Executive Leadership Institute and when you retire Meanwhile, Asian Americans make have your CSA representative call you to discuss the Sdirector or to the CSA Grievance Department. Your join the CSA Retirement Chapter and participate in up as much as 73%. This docu- procedures, arrange to meet with you and answer rebuttal will be reviewed; we will make suggestions all the social and intellectual activities. mentary follows a dozen racially all your questions. Remember, speaking with an on how to improve it and when to submit it. You do and socio-economically diverse investigator without representation is foolish and not immediately have to submit a rebuttal – it can Questions or concerns? Contact me via email at bob@ dangerous. be attached by you at any time. Nevertheless, I urge csa-nyc.org. CSA NEWS Feb. 2016 Feb. 2017 CSA NEWS 7

Herman Legislative Agenda Merritt Today’s Challenge: Retaining Teachers Get Involved! Elections Have Consequences e witnessed a recent years. The Executive Leadership Institute has beginning of been the recipient of funding and we are requesting the poorest and the most affluent student bodies The nominee for Secretary of a new era in continued funding. by 25%. The requirement that schools staff all education last classrooms with “highly-qualified teachers” has Education has played a role in Wmonth. Many of us were • • • created challenges for many schools. not happy with No Child he other major issue facing the state is the gov- Nationally, we know that schools lose between destroying the public system in Left Behind or the Race to ernance of the New York City Public Schools. 1 and 2 billion dollars annually in attrition the Top but now with a her home state of Michigan. For nearly 15 years, Mayoral Control has been costs because many teachers leave the profes- T radical change in the direc- the school governance model used in the city. When sion, according to research from the Alliance for tion of the Department of compared with the controversies that came out of Excellent Education. Frequently, this shift occurs Education, we are in a fight community school boards, it has been somewhat suc- among teachers who move from poor to non- tions governing charter schools in Michigan. Indeed, for survival. cessful but many parents and community residents poor schools, from high-minority to low-minority Mrs. DeVos has spent millions of dollars stymieing Are these words overly feel that they deserve more input in the operations schools and from urban to suburban schools. any attempt to add accountability to charter and dramatic? I don’t think so. private schools. We must be aware and vigilant to of the districts. We are hoping that the model for Let’s look at the record of the governance of New York City schools can be ome suggestions to improve the current sys- ensure that we do not allow the Federal Department We must Betsy DeVos, nominee for improved after a hearing with interested parties and tem include targeted financial resources allo- of Education go the route of the state of Michigan. S the Secretary of Education. a revision of the law. cated specifically to improve, as well as maintain fight to Despite having no personal • • • This is also an election year in New York City. teacher recruitment and retention. Funding must experience in education, All 51 of the New York City Council seats are up address the challenges of teacher quality, includ- improve, n the other hand, the federal government is Ms. DeVos’s wealth and for election and all the Borough Presidents and ing teacher preparation and qualifications of new somewhat limited in the damage it can do to power allowed her to play a Citywide offices are open. There are incumbents who teachers, recruitment and hiring, induction, pro- protect Opublic education here. Of paramount importance key role in destroying public have been supportive of CSA’s issues and a few who fessional development, and retention. Effective to us is politics on the state level – that’s where we must schools in her home state have been MIA when we needed help. Therefore, induction and mentoring programs have been schools at fight to protect and improve our schools. The top issue of Michigan. For over 20 elections have consequences. Stay tuned for more shown to increase retention rates in many varied on our agenda now is the increase in Foundation Aid years she has championed information on how to get involved. Don’t forget schools. Supporting new teachers with high-qual- the state to NYC schools from the State to recover the $5 billion so-called school choice that on Tuesday, Nov. 7, there will be a referendum ity induction programs that lighten initial class that was promised to be phased in over 4 years in 2007. through vouchers, char- on whether the state should hold a constitutional load to accommodate coaching, mentorship, and level. In 2009, the promise was tabled because of the State’s ter schools and for-profit convention. We oppose holding this convention, collaborative planning would accelerate effec- financial crisis and we have not yet received the funds schools. Twenty years later, and will be discussing this more in coming months. tiveness. Focused professional development on owed to the city. We are working with coalitions such Michigan’s schools are near the bottom of the list Meanwhile, follow the New York State AFL-CIO for delivery of instruction, student work, test scores, as the Alliance for Quality Education to ensure that we of states on the NAEP exams. Charter schools there updates. (http://nysaflcio.org/) and linguistic and cultural competence would can recover these needed funds. score worse than traditional public schools through- yield quality instruction for improved teaching Professional development and support for our out the state. Part of the problem is the lack of regula- Herman Merritt is Director of Political Affairs at CSA. and learning. school leaders have been funded by our legislators in

SPEAKER SERIES Elementary Grievance Corner School Acclaimed Documentary CSA 2016 Annual Conference Honorees And Now For Something Completely Different: Facts! Examines Standardized Testing Principal’s you to draft it upon receipt, when the matter is fresh Convention Before There Was a CSA, Marvin and you can recall anything that is germane, such as BY CSA STAFF 8th graders as they fight for a seat We should thank Chin for that.” discussions that were held. at one of these schools. Their only Mr. Chin, who wrote, produced Registration for the 84th If you are summoned to a disciplinary meeting SA and the CSA Retiree way in: to ace a single standardized and directed the movie, has writ- NYCESPA Convention that will be Goodman Was Making CSA History by your supervisor, you are entitled to be repre- Chapter are pleased to test. Tested includes the voices of ten for ABC, the Disney Channel, held Saturday, Feb. 11, 2017 at the sented by your union. Upon being summoned, you Brooklyn Marriott is open. announce the second such education experts as Pedro and Nickelodeon, and won awards Continued from Page 5 should immediately contact your CSA field director event in our speaker Noguera and Diane Ravitch as it from the National Endowment A few highlights awaiting con- to request representation. A representative can often Cseries, Curtis Chin, the award for the Arts, the New York vention attendees: BY CLEM RICHARDSON help to resolve a situation or can help to ensure that winning movie maker, who Foundation for the Arts, and • 165 breakout professional your rights are protected. will show his acclaimed doc- the San Diego Asian American development sessions tar- alter Degnan, a future geted for school supervisors, CSA President, was • • • umentary Tested. Film Foundation. The movie comes at a As a community activ- classroom teachers and parent Marvin Goodman’s ew to the Union? Thinking of retiring? You crucial time, as the gap in ist, Mr. Chin co-founded leaders. gym teacher when • A keynote presentation WMarvin was a student at Christopher should understand your TRS benefits. You opportunities for different the Asian American Writers can go the Teacher Retirement System (TRS) races in America remains extreme. explores such issues as access to a Workshop and Asian Pacific by Dr. Matthew Peterson, Columbus High School. When website, log in and insure that your benefi- Nowhere is this more evident than high-quality public education, affir- Americans for Progress. His first Co-founder, Chief Executive Marvin started his first year at the Nciaries are correct, make changes in your TDA contri- Officer and Senior Scientist City College of New York, Mr. our nation’s top public schools. mative action, and the model-mi- film, Vincent Who? has screened butions and obtain estimates of what your pension In New York City, blacks and nority myth. at nearly 400 colleges, NGOs and at the MIND Research Degnan gave him $50 for text will be. Having the information before utilizing a Hispanics make up 70% of the The movie has had over 100 corporations in four countries. Institute. His topic is “The books. pension consultant will better enable you to make a city’s school-aged population, yet screenings in 8 countries. It has Mr. Chin is currently a Visiting Neuroscience of Productive After Donald Singer became final decision as to retirement. been viewed at the White House, Scholar at NYU. Struggle and Deep Learning President of the Council of School Colleagues are often viewed as knowledgeable, NYC DOE, USC, Penn State, The screening will be held on in Mathematics.” Supervisors, Goodman replaced him but when it comes to your contract, the only people The opportunity Wesleyan, Yale, Duke, and Ohio Friday evening Feb. 10, 2017 at • In addition to several “mem- as President of the Association of you should put your faith in are the people at CSA. to name a few. 5 pm at CSA headquarters, 40 ber-only” benefits including Assistant Principals. Should you have any questions, do not hesitate to gap in education “Any philosophical thinker Rector Street, 12th floor. There free parking at the Marriott, For good measure, Goodman contact the field director or the union directly. that has an interest in public will be a $10 donation per person NYCESPA will honor col- served on the first CSA Executive Your union protects you and represents you. In remains extreme. education should see this docu- and all profits will go to the CSA leagues who have served 5, Board and on each of his union’s unity, we will continue to grow and help school mentary,” said Jake Miller, the Scholarship Fund which is now a 10, 15, in three cases 20 years executive boards until he retired leaders have a voice that is recognized by gov- 2016 Pennsylvania Teacher of the 501(c)(3) charity. Only 80 people and in one case 25 years as from his assistant principal job ernment. Attend district and borough CSA meet- they represent less than 5% at the Year and a 2017 NEA Teacher of may attend, so register as early as elementary school principals. in 1991. Today he remains active ings, take advantage of the courses offered by the city’s most elite public high schools. Excellence. “It is not for the light possible. You may bring a friend with CSA, serving as unit leader of Executive Leadership Institute and when you retire Meanwhile, Asian Americans make of heart, but neither is education. or teacher. Light refreshments will At the NYCESPA website, click on the Bronx Retiree Chapter, and on join the CSA Retirement Chapter and participate in up as much as 73%. This docu- Tested will leave you looking for be served. the link to go to the convention page the Legacy and Retiree Executive all the social and intellectual activities. mentary follows a dozen racially the answers, and they’re not on To reserve your seat, call the CSA for a registration form and program Committees. and socio-economically diverse a multiple choice Scantron sheet. Retiree Chapter at (212) 823-2020. details: http://www.nycespa.org/ Now 89, Goodman is busier than Questions or concerns? Contact me via email at bob@ Convention.html. csa-nyc.org. 8 CSA NEWS Feb. 2017 Feb. 2017 CSA NEWS

CREATIVE LEADERSHIP Marketing, Marshaling Resources, Expanding Programs: Principals Blaze A Trail

CITYWIDE LIBERATION DIPLOMA HIGH SCHOOL Communications: Now, More Than Ever Before, Crafting Lessons from the Eric Garner Tragedy Building Support For Public Schools is Vital CHUCK WILBANKS fter Eric Garner was choked KATE GIBSON neighborhood,” says Louis Pavone, princi- While school leaders need to oversee visible, by being in classrooms throughout to death in July 2014 while pal of PS/IS 78Q in Long Island City since the message and strategy, but that doesn’t the day, and by greeting children in the being arrested by police, hether it’s convincing 2006. “Now with more school choice it’s mean principals must do all the marketing morning arriving to school, and being Liberation Diploma High the citizenry of the important that the public schools inform themselves. outside to see the families picking up their School Founding Principal value of public edu- the community of all the great things “You’re not going to have a multi- children at dismissal.” AApril Leong felt the need to act. cation or persuading they do so that parents want to send their million dollar advertising budget that a One of a principal’s best marketing She knew that many of her students parents to enroll their children to the public school. We have to corporation has, but you do have people friends is to have a really good assistant live in housing projects, where resent- Wkids in your school, marketing is now part ensure that our voices are the ones telling power,” said Ms. Carr, who points to to maintain a database of key contacts ment toward police officers often runs of the job for principals and other school our story – we tend to let others tell our to reach out to for help in spreading the high. That sentiment intensified after administrators. story.” school’s messages. “Once you build it, it Garner’s death, which was captured on The importance of branding is espe- Making matters worse: private and ‘You won’t have an doesn’t take long to blast out,” says Ms. video that went viral on social and con- cially important at a time when public charter schools typically have more Carr. ventional news media. education is getting a bad rap, whether resources to sell themselves. advertising budget, but A school needs a command central So Ms. Leong held a school “town from negative stories in the press or by pol- “School districts don’t have sales you have people power.’ to coordinate marketing, whether it’s a hall” meeting to give students a chance iticians. In his inaugural address, President forces,” says Nora Carr, chief of staff for person or a committee that is fed informa- to discuss the Garner tragedy, which by Donald Trump described the nation’s Guilford Country Schools, the third largest tion and then is tasked with sharing with that time had prompted massive protests education system as “flush with cash, but district in North Carolina. “Most of the others. “If you have a strong PTA – at one nationally and a grand jury investigation. which leaves our young and beautiful stu- districts across the country aren’t huge, employees, parents, volunteers, business of our schools, it’s the parents that take it Ms. Leong’s students’ anger and dents deprived of all knowledge.” so they might have one person (in public partners, churches and athletic boosters as on, at another, it’s the occupational school resentment toward law enforcement Such arguments, specious as they are, relations). Our competitors are better posi- potential aids. “Look at all those people, therapist,” says Ms. Carr. were clear in the meeting. That’s when and get more and more of their sharing Educators often devote significant she got the idea of offering a class that similar messages in their own words.” resources to research and analysis on would let students meet and speak with Find someone who loves your school, what’s working with an educational law enforcement officers. whether a parent or staff member, to program, but don’t use that kind of data- “It was a way to take some positive take charge of advocating for the school, driven approach to understand how to whether it’s putting out press releases or communicate with parents and the com- knocking on doors to let people know the munity. That’s a mistake. YOUNG WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP SCHOOL school wants them. “There’s a naivete that marketing Mr. Pavone works closely with parents, means a press release, a brochure or put- teachers and the community, listening ting something out on social media,” says carefully all the while. “People have to Ms. Carr. Advancing the Cause of Advanced Placement feel comfortable and trust what you’re Individual schools are unlikely to doing,” he said. “After all, we are caring for have the resources to finance professional CHUCK WILBANKS their children, which is the most import- surveys, they can put together online ant thing that we do. When parents and polls or focus groups to get a handle on rincipal Allison Persad teachers trust you, they are more support- the concerns of parents and the broader and her Young Women’s ive and get more involved in their child’s community, and the best ways to reach Leadership School of school.” them. “You need to have your finger on Astoria took center stage Instead of looking at marketing your the pulse of the community, not listening at a Jan. 17 press confer- school as one more thing to do, try to only to the loud people,” says Ms. Carr. Pence where Mayor Bill de Blasio blend the task with what you’re doing “You may have four people calling you and Chancellor Carmen Farina CHUCK WILBANKS anyway, advises Ms. Carr. Look at the all the time and think you have a major announced a sharp rise in the n Principal Luis Torres of PS 55: “Always on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, constantly school calendar for marketing moments, trend, but 95 percent may not care.” number of public school students posting everything that happens at the school.” the spring musical, or a play, which offer Also key is visiting schools that feed who took, and passed, advanced principals the chance to share a few words into your school, says Eric Nadelstern, placement courses. about the school with those attending. who retired as a deputy schools chancellor CSA President Ernest Logan, have been a mainstay of charter school tioned that way.” “I’m always on Instagram, Twitter and in 2011, after working in New York City UFT President Michael Mulgrew, advocates on the local level as well. Ms. Carr, whose career included stints Facebook, I’m constantly posting every- schools for 39 years, including as a teacher and College Board President With school budgets and funding tied in hospital and corporate communica- thing that happens at the school,” says Mr. and a principal. “Meeting with kids and David Coleman were among to the number of children enrolled, brand- tions, also called for a heightened aware- Torres, who adds that his school is staging their families – there is no substitute for the dignitaries on hand for the ing is becoming more crucial, especially ness among educational leaders about the “The Lion King,” and received a grant that, really,” says Nadelstern, now a profes- announcement. in the face of increased competition from importance of building public support for from the Disney company to do it. sor of practice in educational leadership at Officials cited a citywide surge private, charter and religious schools. public schools. “People have volunteered to do cos- Columbia University’s Teachers College. of 8 percent in the number of “You have to have a business mental- In looking at the needs of the commu- tumes and props,” says Mr. Torres. “Local Parents often remove their child from students taking and passing AP ity,” says Luis Torres, principal at PS 55 nity surrounding his school, Mr. Torres politicians want to do more with you a school not because of an educational courses. Gains were seen particu- Benjamin Franklin, an elementary school found gaps in medical services and places because they know you’re in the public issue, but because of their own experi- larly among African American and in the Bronx. “You need to be able to to buy healthy food. The school now has a eye.” ence. Ms. Carr’s district found that under Hispanic students. DOE officials brand your programs so you can fill them fulltime doctor and psychologist on staff, While a proponent of social media, No Child Left Behind, which gave parents said that while 140 out of 500 high – when choice became an option for par- as well as a farm and a garden. Mr. Torres advises other educators to make the option to transfer their children out schools still do not have advanced ents I realized I needed to make that shift.” “A lot of the things I was bringing in sure what they are posting is appropriate, of lower performing schools, that they placement courses, the city is try- In the 12 years that Mr. Torres has had to do with health and wellness, so we and won’t backfire. “If you create a page often did not. “Maybe they felt welcome, ing to remedy that by 2021. been principal at PS 55, community work switched our logo to a science theme,” online, it should have your school name or that their child wasn’t going to get Persad’s school was founded in was always part of the job description, but says Mr. Torres, who adds that the school and number, and not be used in a negative lost.” 2006 and she took the reins two promotion was not. “There was not much also created brochures and business cards way,” he says. Even schools with challenges have years ago. At the time, there were competition, as people were going to their that emphasize health and wellness. great things going on that can be told to no AP classes for the school’s 562 zoned schools,” he says. “Whatever is needed in the commu- r. Pavone said he communicates parents and the community. “Some of students. “This year, thanks to ‘AP for He said he intensified his branding nity and the school – bring those things Mpublicly on a daily basis through his the best teaching I’ve seen going on is at All,’ there are four,” Ms. Persad told the efforts once it became easier for parents to to light, that’s really your brand,” says Mr. school website, and has an open-door pol- the lowest performing schools,” says Ms. crowd – literature, language, psychol- select other schools, a trend that picked up Torres. That said, he cautions against puff- icy to meet with staff and parents. “Parents Carr. “If you continue to lose enrollment, ogy and 2D art. about five years ago. ery, such as calling a school ‘The School and teachers appreciate being heard and your school closes. You’re not going to The de Blasio administration created “For many years, the public school was of Sports and Arts,’ without having strong able to talk to the principal whenever they have any resources if you don’t let people the program to address an inequality the only place for children to go to in their programs in either. need to,” he says. “It is important to be know about the good work you’re doing.” in course offerings at schools across the CSA NEWS Feb. 2017 Feb. 2017 CSA NEWS 9

Marketing, Marshaling Resources, Expanding Programs: Principals Blaze A Trail

LIBERATION DIPLOMA HIGH SCHOOL Communications: Now, More Than Ever Before, Crafting Lessons from the Eric Garner Tragedy

CHUCK WILBANKS action about the anger that people were At a December class, sixteen or so cers who had to bag up the snakes for Building Support For Public Schools is Vital feeling about the death of Eric Garner,” students watched a video detailing a pre- transport to an animal care facility. fter Eric Garner was choked Ms. Leong said. “We wanted to channel cinct’s chain of command, including a The students were captivated. visible, by being in classrooms throughout to death in July 2014 while their energy.” description of the duties of a grim inter- Several police academy cadets also the day, and by greeting children in the being arrested by police, She and Lt. Donzel Cleare, a hous- nal affairs officer assigned to investigate visited the class during the year, describ- morning arriving to school, and being Liberation Diploma High ing bureau officer who specializes in police wrongdoing. ing their studies, career goals, salaries, the outside to see the families picking up their School Founding Principal community affairs, devised a course, A large and engaging man, Lt. Cleare tuition assistance they receive, and the children at dismissal.” AApril Leong felt the need to act. the Junior Citizens Police Academy, in took questions during the often ani- reasons they felt drawn to police work. One of a principal’s best marketing She knew that many of her students which students learn basic police pro- mated class discussion that followed. Lt. Cleare encouraged the Liberation friends is to have a really good assistant live in housing projects, where resent- tocol, including how investigations are One student asked if Cleare had lost Diploma students to “speak your truth to maintain a database of key contacts ment toward police officers often runs conducted, how precincts are organized any friends on the force to violence. (He and your level of expectation to these to reach out to for help in spreading the high. That sentiment intensified after and function, and the daily routines of hadn’t.) young men and women before they are school’s messages. “Once you build it, it Garner’s death, which was captured on different beat cops. Asked what was the craziest incident on the street.” doesn’t take long to blast out,” says Ms. video that went viral on social and con- Lt. Cleare, who grew up in Queens, that happened to him on the job, Cleare The students seemed particularly Carr. ventional news media. said he modeled the class after one took a breath, lowered his voice, and impressed by the discussion of pay and A school needs a command central So Ms. Leong held a school “town offered to adults. “I scaled it down and told what sounded like a tall tale – a man benefits, as well as the ins and outs of to coordinate marketing, whether it’s a hall” meeting to give students a chance made it youth friendly, to create a gen- found dead in an apartment, a drill bit in the drug tests and psychological profiling person or a committee that is fed informa- to discuss the Garner tragedy, which by eral level of respect and understanding, his head, in a room splattered with blood potential officers must go through. tion and then is tasked with sharing with that time had prompted massive protests so that they can also see the humanistic and crowded with dozens of cages filled Like the Liberation Diploma students, others. “If you have a strong PTA – at one nationally and a grand jury investigation. side of policing,” he said. He said he with large snakes. the cadets were ethnically diverse, most of our schools, it’s the parents that take it Ms. Leong’s students’ anger and understood well from his own childhood (In 1999, Brooklyn snake handler, of them black or Hispanic. A seminar, ‘Empowering on, at another, it’s the occupational school resentment toward law enforcement the mistrust of police. Thomas “Anaconda Tom” Giacometti, One young cadet told the class that Female Students in therapist,” says Ms. Carr. were clear in the meeting. That’s when The understanding fostered by the was killed when he allegedly fell onto his even when the instructors are being Educators often devote significant she got the idea of offering a class that course is a two way street – NYPD col- drill while building a cage.) hard on her, like when they order her to STEM Education’ hosted resources to research and analysis on would let students meet and speak with leagues have told him they also came “It was like something out of ‘Silence do twenty push-ups, “I just think, ‘Hey, what’s working with an educational law enforcement officers. away with new perspectives after meet- of the Lambs!’” Lt. Cleare said, telling I’m getting paid to do this, so it’s not 150 Brazilian teachers program, but don’t use that kind of data- “It was a way to take some positive ing the students. how he ended up being one of the offi- too bad.” driven approach to understand how to in math workshops. communicate with parents and the com- munity. That’s a mistake. YOUNG WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP SCHOOL “There’s a naivete that marketing means a press release, a brochure or put- ting something out on social media,” says Ms. Carr. Advancing the Cause of Advanced Placement Only a handful of institutions are able Individual schools are unlikely to have the resources to finance professional CHUCK WILBANKS “We have the quality of stu- to offer professional development which surveys, they can put together online dents,” she said. “This is about polls or focus groups to get a handle on rincipal Allison Persad giving them the opportunity.” satisfies NYSED requirements. the concerns of parents and the broader and her Young Women’s If ever there was a school community, and the best ways to reach Leadership School of where AP classes would seem QUOTABLE them. “You need to have your finger on Astoria took center stage a natural fit, it is at Young the pulse of the community, not listening at a Jan. 17 press confer- Women’s Leadership, with a 96 At a press conference held at the the only to the loud people,” says Ms. Carr. Pence where Mayor Bill de Blasio percent graduation rate and a “Young Women’s Leadership School” of “You may have four people calling you and Chancellor Carmen Farina 97 percent rate of college accep- Astoria Jan. 17, Chancellor Carmen all the time and think you have a major announced a sharp rise in the tance. Farina and Mayor Bill de Blasio had trend, but 95 percent may not care.” number of public school students these reactions to the appointment of Also key is visiting schools that feed who took, and passed, advanced ayor De Blasio and others billionaire heiress Betsy DeVos to head into your school, says Eric Nadelstern, placement courses. Mnoted the complexity of the US Department of Education: who retired as a deputy schools chancellor CSA President Ernest Logan, rolling out the program citywide, “Our job is to keep our eye on in 2011, after working in New York City UFT President Michael Mulgrew, a fact echoed by Ms. Persad, who the ball, and keep focused on what schools for 39 years, including as a teacher and College Board President said many changes had to be we’re doing. Bureaucracies have a lot and a principal. “Meeting with kids and David Coleman were among made to bring the courses to her of stopgaps along the way. I thank their families – there is no substitute for the dignitaries on hand for the school. She cited the work AP God for bureaucracy when it comes that, really,” says Nadelstern, now a profes- announcement. Coordinator Kimberly Maisonet to New York City right now.” sor of practice in educational leadership at Officials cited a citywide surge in particular, crediting her with – Chancellor Carmen Fariña Columbia University’s Teachers College. of 8 percent in the number of helping harness parent engage- Parents often remove their child from students taking and passing AP ment, scheduling, exams, mock “I don’t want to overstate the a school not because of an educational courses. Gains were seen particu- exams, and student recruitment. threat. There are tremendous hes- issue, but because of their own experi- larly among African American and AP course teachers were cho- itations about vouchers, and there ence. Ms. Carr’s district found that under Hispanic students. DOE officials sen through a rigorous process is a tremendous feeling for public CHUCK WILBANKS No Child Left Behind, which gave parents said that while 140 out of 500 high that included summer training education in this country, includ- n Advanced placement teacher Xenia Thomopoulos, the option to transfer their children out schools still do not have advanced classes. Ms. Persad said teachers ing in rural districts, including in Young Women’s Leadership School principal Allison of lower performing schools, that they placement courses, the city is try- who made the cut coupled their red states. Anything that might Persad, NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio, and CSA President often did not. “Maybe they felt welcome, ing to remedy that by 2021. passion for teaching with profes- undercut resources for our public or that their child wasn’t going to get Persad’s school was founded in Ernest Logan at the Young Women’s Leadership School of sional development. “At Astoria, schools is going to meet with a lost.” 2006 and she took the reins two Astoria in Queens. teacher experience and passion lot of opposition. Just look at the Even schools with challenges have years ago. At the time, there were are key,” she said. whole movement nationally on great things going on that can be told to no AP classes for the school’s 562 city. “For too long, this was all about Ms. Persad said she planned some of the high-stakes testing parents and the community. “Some of students. “This year, thanks to ‘AP for who you are and where you live,” he to expand her school’s AP course menu issues, and it tells you a lot. So I the best teaching I’ve seen going on is at All,’ there are four,” Ms. Persad told the said. “In the history of this city, too to include math, science and computer think it’s a real concern, but I don’t the lowest performing schools,” says Ms. crowd – literature, language, psychol- often, your educational opportunities science, an outgrowth of the de Blasio think it will be easy for her to Carr. “If you continue to lose enrollment, ogy and 2D art. were determined by your zip code.” administration’s “Computer Science move that part of her agenda.” your school closes. You’re not going to The de Blasio administration created Ms. Persad said having AP course- for All” program, noting that “We all – Mayor Bill de Blasio have any resources if you don’t let people the program to address an inequality work opens new horizons for scholar- know the statistics on how few women know about the good work you’re doing.” in course offerings at schools across the ships and good colleges for her students. there are in computer science.” 10 CSA NEWS Feb. 2017 Feb. 2017 CSA NEWS CREATIVE LEADERSHIP The Welfare Fund New York City Principals Blaze A Trail Catastrophic Stop-Loss To Cover Surgery uestion: I am a retired AP who is not yet Medicare eligible and enrolled in the GHI-CBP LEHMAN CAMPUS CO-LOCATED SCHOOLS health plan. A friend told me I Qcould get my prescription drug co-pay- ments reimbursed. How do I do this? ANSWER: Your friend is correct. School Leaders Share A Library, Safety Agents, Simply make a copy of each of the four quarterly reports you received from Express Scripts/GHI showing Sports Teams, Custodians, and Much More your co-payments for 2016 and send we do. We share resources, talk about the training classes together, discussed help make that change.” them to the CSA Retiree Welfare Continued from Page 1 Fund. We have an arrangement with example, as a building council, we curriculum, new initiatives that we want the implications, and sent their staffs “These initiatives have provided us New York City and GHI that allows acknowledge the importance of reach- to put forth. Assistant principals do the for training. with multiple opportunities to collabo- us to receive prescription history ing consensus for all decisions involv- same. Teachers are engaged in learning “It’s something we’re happy to rate and leverage our schools’ resources Not yet electronically. Once we receive it, ing shared space, fiscal accountability different cycles of inquiry.” have on our campus,” Powers said, in the service of all students on the and verify that it is complete, we pro- and division of building responsibili- “I think it’s really important for adding that the campus hopes to hire campus,” said Salcedo. “For example, Medicare cess the reimbursements in the order ties. This allows each of us to be inten- the teachers, in a building this large, to a “Restorative Justice Coordinator. “It’s each school has committed 10 seats in they were received. We are scheduled tional and consistent in our actions make connections with other teach- intense. It’s a lot of work. It requires each of our AP-For-All classes to accom- eligible? to receive the file by mid-February, so and to hold each other accountable ers,” said Wagner. “I was a teacher in resources. It requires a lot of time. But I modate two students from each of the our reimbursement checks should be for the implementation of policies and think we’re all in agreement that when other five schools on the campus. Such With out by the end of March. procedures impacting all schools.” we see the headlines in the paper, that collaboration fosters positive relation- GHI CBP, An unexpected benefit of the ‘I have students taking something has to change. And we do ships among staff and students from all uestion: I am an active CSA arrangement is the principals have have a role in students’ lives to sort of schools.” scripts are member. My husband just had become an in-house support group for AP classes at Mr. major back surgery, and I have each other. Wagner’s school. Mr. covered. received over $20,000 of bills “I think every principal will identify Qfor anesthesia, surgeons, and other with the fact that this is at times a very GOOD THINGS FOR YOUR SCHOOL Fucheck has students at costs where GHI only paid a very small amount. How can I get lonely existence,” said Wagner. “You’re the one person in your school kind of Ms. Herrera’s school.’ swimming by yourself. We all recognize that half the time this is more of a men- ‘Navigational Assistance’ tal health support group, in addition to a a similarly large building, and I would Take Me Out To The Ball Game! leadership group on this campus. “We find comfort in having those be working on the first floor, and not Via Police Department conversations with each other about even know someone teaching on the Intergenerational Event Sponsored By The Retiree Chapter For All Members what the struggles are that we’re facing, fourth floor, and never see them. For BY CHUCK WILBANKS BY CSA STAFF what’s hitting us on the head this day, years. Amazingly. But now we’re sort of and being able to ask for advice from breaking those bonds and making sure The NYPD offers programs to help students and faculty of New York City’s CSA and the Retiree Chapter each other.” – not only for the purpose of breaking schools find their way through a myriad of challenging issues. Lectures and are once again inviting all mem- “Our biggest challenge is coordinat- those barriers, but making instructional interactive dramas engage students and raise awareness. For more informa- bers to attend our Sixth Annual ing time,” Herrera said. “We text a lot, contacts.” tion, contact the NYPD’s Community Affairs department at (646) 610-5323, CSA night at Yankee Stadium. and if we need to get together quickly, Unlike other co-located schools, or write [email protected]. The game will be played on we use our walkie talkies.” Lehman campus schools also some- Friday, June 9, at 7:35 pm, Like many co-located schools, the times share students, who may take advanced placement and other courses Lectures against the Baltimore Orioles. Lehman Campus schools share custo- • Conflict Resolution – Positive alternatives and tactics to resolve conflicts. in another institution that their school Baltimore is coming off a spec- dians, school safety agents, a campus • Cyber Bullying – How internet conflicts can be avoided. does not offer. tacular year, having won their manager, campus school aides, a campus • Internet Safety – Tips on being safe while searching the internet. “This allows us to work across American League Division Series, student council, a parent advisory coun- • Peer Pressure – Strategies to resist negative peer pressure. schools and have our students given but losing to Cleveland for the cil, sports teams and a library (which is • Sexual Offenses – Explains penal law, the consequences of inappropriate access to multiple advanced placement American League Championship undergoing a $400,000 renovation cour- touching and how victims should seek assistance. courses,” said Ramos. “I have three stu- and a shot at winning the World tesy of City Councilman James Vacca • Understanding the Law – Describes penal law violations as well as dents who are going to take advanced Series. It is also Reggie Jackson - Dist. 13). Chancellor’s Rules and Regulations. placement literature at Mr. Wagner’s The schools use the same bell sched- • Gang Awareness – Consequences of being involved in a gang and the school. I think Mr. Fucheck has stu- ule – the anticipated confusion of so need for students to seek assistance when victims. dents in Ms. Herrera’s school. many students moving around at once • Teen Violence and the Juvenile Justice System – The consequences of teen “It’s been really helpful because my violence and the process of the juvenile justice system. school is the smallest on the campus, Notice: CSA • SAD (Smoking, Alcohol and Drugs) – Dangers of abusing legal and so we don’t really have a lot of teachers illegal substances. Consensus and open who are able to teach advanced place- Constitution • Date Violence – Identifying violence in relationships and the impact ment courses,” Ramos said. “It’s giving lines of communication it has. the kids a lot more access to these and By-Law • Stress –The effects of stress on the body and positive ways to relieve it. support policy. high-level, high-quality, highly rigorous • Graffiti –The legal implications of graffiti and alternatives to courses.” Modifications destructive behavior. “I had an AP language class last Every three years the was cut down by having each school’s year, and a student from Renaissance was in that class,” Fucheck said. “I had School Programs Council of School classes located on or near the same • Law Enforcement Exploring Program – Career-oriented program designed students sitting in Westchester Square Supervisors and floors, Powers said. to educate young men and women, ages 14-20, about law enforcement. The Academy classes last year, and actually Administrators Executive They’ve held joint staff breakfasts, program fosters a positive relationship between youth and the NYPD. SSD for all three years.” Board reviews our programs, and in the months leading currently has 10 active SSD Explorer posts within the 5 Boroughs. “It’s wonderful to be able to say to a Constitution and By-laws. to the 2015 presidential election, a joint • All Star–Elementary School Program and Think First–Middle School Program young person that, although we don’t get-out-the-vote assembly. – Emphasizes building character/self-esteem, self-discipline, and leadership offer this right now, I can program On December 14, 2016, The arrangement naturally lends itself and promotes teamwork. It also raises awareness about the harmful effects you for that class in another campus the Executive Board to the Learning Partners Program, in of peer pressure and participation in gangs, and how to resolve conflicts school,” Ramos said. approved limited which staff members from each school peacefully. When Mayor Bill de Blasio and modifications of CSA’s meets with their counterparts from other • My School Has Rhythm Not Violence – Gives students tools to take an Chancellor Carmen Farina announced Constitution and By-laws. schools to share best practices. All of the active role in helping reduce verbal and physical confrontations occurring in June 2015 that advanced placement Lehman campus schools are involved in in their school. Utilizes drama based techniques, lectures, presentations, and classes would be offered at all city high To read the constitution the Learning Partners Program. music with the assistance of popular radio stations. schools by 2021, the Lehman Campus and By-laws, go to this “We’re really taking advantage of • Achieve to Succeed – Empowers high school students with information schools were already ahead of the curve. link: http://www.csa-nyc. sharing best practices across all schools,” on career opportunities. Includes an extracurricular activity such as basket- The restorative justice initiatives org/pdf/4379/csa-consti- said Ramos. “Every school does some- ball or musical performance. thing really well that the rest of us can have drawn the close-knit group even tution-and-by-laws.pdf. learn from, so that’s what in essence closer, they said. Principals have taken CSA NEWS Feb. 2017 Feb. 2017 CSA NEWS 11

Dr. Douglas The Welfare Fund V. Hathaway NATION Labor Catastrophic Stop-Loss To Cover Surgery New York City Principals Blaze A Trail MASSACHUSETTS: uestion: I am a retired AP who is not yet Medicare eligible Send us all the bills and explanation NLRB Hearing and enrolled in the GHI-CBP The National Labor Relations Board health plan. A friend told me I of benefit notices, arrange payment (NLRB) had a February hearing to Qcould get my prescription drug co-pay- review challenged ballots in the ments reimbursed. How do I do this? schedules with your doctors. Harvard students’ unionization vote. School Leaders Share A Library, Safety Agents, ANSWER: Your friend is correct. Union organizers claim the use of Simply make a copy of each of the “preferred names” rather than legal four quarterly reports you received GHI to pay the rest of these bills? names prevented eligible voters from Express Scripts/GHI showing ANSWER: You probably will not get more from GHI, but from participating. The University Sports Teams, Custodians, and Much More your co-payments for 2016 and send we can help with that $20,000 amount. Please send us a copy defended the election saying the defi- help make that change.” them to the CSA Retiree Welfare of the doctors’ bills and the explanation of benefits state- nition of “eligible voters” was agreed “These initiatives have provided us Fund. We have an arrangement with ments received from GHI. We will review what GHI paid and upon. Votes were 1,272 for and 1,456 against, with 314 challenged ballots. with multiple opportunities to collabo- New York City and GHI that allows see if we can get them to pay more. Once we have received all (The Harvard Crimson) rate and leverage our schools’ resources Not yet us to receive prescription history we can from GHI, we will process through our Catastrophic in the service of all students on the electronically. Once we receive it, Stop-Loss medical benefit. Under this benefit, the first $1,500 WEST VIRGINIA: campus,” said Salcedo. “For example, Medicare and verify that it is complete, we pro- of unreimbursed expenses is taken as a deductible. The next each school has committed 10 seats in cess the reimbursements in the order $1,250 in allowable charges is reimbursed at 80% (you absorb Defining “Teachers” each of our AP-For-All classes to accom- eligible? they were received. We are scheduled another $250 in unreimbursed costs and the welfare fund A high court reversed a decision modate two students from each of the to receive the file by mid-February, so reimburses you $1,000). We then reimburse 100% of allow- that said “interventionists” who other five schools on the campus. Such With our reimbursement checks should be able charges to a maximum of $50,000 per year, $250,000 work in Monongalia’s school collaboration fosters positive relation- out by the end of March. lifetime. Assuming the doctor’s fees are reasonable for this system are considered classroom ships among staff and students from all GHI CBP, part of the country, you will only have $1,725 in unre- teachers and must be given the schools.” uestion: I am an active CSA imbursed expenses to incorporate within your household same benefits. The reversal means scripts are member. My husband just had expenses. Please remember that, ultimately, you are responsi- Monongalia can continue to use major back surgery, and I have ble for the doctor’s bill, so I recommend you let them know interventionists as part-time, covered. received over $20,000 of bills that you will be reimbursed most of the costs, ask for their at-will employees, who are paid Qfor anesthesia, surgeons, and other patience, and make arrangements to pay them the $1,750 $25 an hour with no benefits. GOOD THINGS FOR YOUR SCHOOL costs where GHI only paid a very small amount. How can I get that will not be reimbursed. (wvgazettemail.com)

MINNESOTA: ‘Navigational Assistance’ Parental Leave Take Me Out To The Ball Game! Minnesota Association of Professional Employees (MAPE) cre- Via Police Department ated a movement, involving younger Intergenerational Event Sponsored By The Retiree Chapter For All Members members who might otherwise not have become involved, by zeroing in BY CHUCK WILBANKS BY CSA STAFF Bobble head night. The first chicken fajitas, baked beans, All profits will go to the on the issue of paid parental leave. 18,000 fans will receive this free garden salad, watermelon, ice CSA Scholarship Fund. The Beginning with small actions and The NYPD offers programs to help students and faculty of New York City’s CSA and the Retiree Chapter giveaway. cream and soft drinks. The price Scholarship Fund is now a rec- meetings that drew increasingly schools find their way through a myriad of challenging issues. Lectures and are once again inviting all mem- We have purchased two of this ticket package is $105 per ognized 501(c)(3) charity. larger numbers from wider circles, interactive dramas engage students and raise awareness. For more informa- bers to attend our Sixth Annual different tiers of tickets. The ticket. Bring the kids, nieces, neph- MAPE gained the Governor’s atten- tion, contact the NYPD’s Community Affairs department at (646) 610-5323, CSA night at Yankee Stadium. first tier is the Main Level Gate The other tier is the Audi ews, parents, grandparents, tion. As a result, a memorandum of or write [email protected]. The game will be played on 2 Picnic Area package which Yankees Club. These seats are aunts, uncles and friends. understanding, amending all state Friday, June 9, at 7:35 pm, features an all-inclusive food located in left field on the suite To order your tickets, go to: union contracts to guarantee six Lectures against the Baltimore Orioles. and nonalcoholic package with level. The Audi Club features a https://www.regonline.com/csaretir- weeks of paid leave upon the birth • Conflict Resolution – Positive alternatives and tactics to resolve conflicts. Baltimore is coming off a spec- a main level ticket in section dining lounge and offers sweep- eechapternyyankee2017 or call the or adoption of a child, was made • Cyber Bullying – How internet conflicts can be avoided. tacular year, having won their 234, starting when the gates ing views of Yankee Stadium. Retiree Chapter at 212 823-2020. retroactive to July 1, 2015. The • Internet Safety – Tips on being safe while searching the internet. American League Division Series, open and ends 30 minutes after This package offers all inclusive Note that Monument Park is amendment will be introduced into • Peer Pressure – Strategies to resist negative peer pressure. but losing to Cleveland for the the scheduled start time of the gourmet food during the game, a open until 45 minutes before game contract language in bargaining this spring. (labornotes.org) • Sexual Offenses – Explains penal law, the consequences of inappropriate American League Championship game. It is a semi-private area dessert station and nonalcoholic time and the Yankees Museum is touching and how victims should seek assistance. and a shot at winning the World and the menu includes Brooklyn beverages. The price of the Audi available until the end of the eighth KENTUCKY: • Understanding the Law – Describes penal law violations as well as Series. It is also Reggie Jackson beef sliders, Nathan’s hot dogs, Yankee Club is $165 per ticket. inning. Chancellor’s Rules and Regulations. Assault On Unions • Gang Awareness – Consequences of being involved in a gang and the Kentucky Republicans, having need for students to seek assistance when victims. gained “trifecta control” with a • Teen Violence and the Juvenile Justice System – The consequences of teen Holiday Celebration majority in all three branches of violence and the process of the juvenile justice system. Notice: CSA government, started the new year • SAD (Smoking, Alcohol and Drugs) – Dangers of abusing legal and by enacting anti-labor legislation. illegal substances. Constitution Legislators reportedly refused to • Date Violence – Identifying violence in relationships and the impact Bronx even consider arguments of workers, it has. and By-Law community leaders, business own- • Stress –The effects of stress on the body and positive ways to relieve it. Board ers and academics. Two bills – one • Graffiti –The legal implications of graffiti and alternatives to Modifications allowing workers to avoid paying destructive behavior. Members union dues, the other repealing the prevailing wage – were approved. Every three years the at Gracie (www.thenation.com) School Programs Council of School • Law Enforcement Exploring Program – Career-oriented program designed Supervisors and Mansion IOWA: to educate young men and women, ages 14-20, about law enforcement. The Administrators Executive program fosters a positive relationship between youth and the NYPD. SSD Health Plan Board reviews our n currently has 10 active SSD Explorer posts within the 5 Boroughs. Bronx Unit Constitution and By-laws. Leader Marvin Calling the current health plan • All Star–Elementary School Program and Think First–Middle School Program Goodman with “outdated” and “inefficient,” Gov. – Emphasizes building character/self-esteem, self-discipline, and leadership On December 14, 2016, Chirlane McCrae Terry Branstad proposed to put state and promotes teamwork. It also raises awareness about the harmful effects the Executive Board and Mayor Bill workers under a single health insur- of peer pressure and participation in gangs, and how to resolve conflicts approved limited DeBlasio at a ance plan that would not be subject peacefully. modifications of CSA’s Gracie Mansion to collective bargaining. Branstad • My School Has Rhythm Not Violence – Gives students tools to take an Constitution and By-laws. Holiday Party for is reportedly negotiating contracts active role in helping reduce verbal and physical confrontations occurring Community Board with state workers on the presump- in their school. Utilizes drama based techniques, lectures, presentations, and To read the constitution Members on Dec. tion that health benefits will not music with the assistance of popular radio stations. and By-laws, go to this 17. Mr. Goodman, be included. There is a Republican • Achieve to Succeed – Empowers high school students with information link: http://www.csa-nyc. is a member of majority in both houses of the state on career opportunities. Includes an extracurricular activity such as basket- org/pdf/4379/csa-consti- Community Board legislature. (laborpress.org) ball or musical performance. tution-and-by-laws.pdf. 8 in the Bronx. — Compiled by Christine Altman 12 CSA NEWS Feb. 2017 Feb. 2017 CSA NEWS

were married 39 years, four months and were spent with the family of a college In Memoriam five days.” In addition to her husband, sur- friend at the Jersey shore, where she GARY GOLDSTEIN vivors include a stepson, Michael Kokason. worked in a saltwater taffy shop on the n ROBERT BURGER, 98, died Dec. 7, 2016. our house, she purchased the first Beatles n AUGUSTA MITCHELL, 79, died Oct. 28, boardwalk and met her future husband, The Brooklyn-born Mr. Burger grew up record, not me.” Actively involved in the 2016. Born in Staten Island, she graduat- John Sid. She earned a master’s degree Travel Desk near Ebbets Field – the onetime home to Reading Through the Arts program at the ed from Curtis High School and earned a in education administration at Boston the Brooklyn Dodgers, becoming an avid Cloisters, Ms. Davis “wanted each child to bachelor’s degree from Hunter College University; moved to New York City and fan of the baseball team that now resides develop his or her own artistic vision,”said and a master’s degree in education from married in 1960. While her husband ran in Los Angeles. After graduating from the her daughter-in-law, Pam Rauscher. “She the College of Staten Island. “She was a a restaurant, Mrs. Sid cared for their two Explore, Vacation, By Land or Sea University of Alabama in 1942, he joined was adamantly against coloring books and very caring person, a good educator, and sons. After her husband was injured in a the U.S. Army Air Forces before his hon- paint-by-numbers. They would do an art very good with orable discharge four years later. A New project, but in the process, integrate read- the children – all York City school teacher for several years, ing into the curriculum.” Active into her three of our sons Mr. Burger obtained a Master’s Degree in late 80s, Ms. Davis exhibited her photo- are college grads education from Columbia University and graphs in several one-woman shows in the and profession- become an elementary school principal Woodstock, NY, area. In 2016, she moved als,” said her at PS 1 in Staten Island. After he retired as to an adult retirement community in New husband, Claude principal, Mr. Burger worked another 10 Paltz, NY, where she exhibited her work Mitchell. The years in human resources at civil engineer- at a show each year. Her husband, Roy couple, who mar- ing firm Hardesty & Hanover in New York Lehrer, died in 2003. In addition to her son, ried in 1963, met City. He also served as president of The survivors include a grandson and a great while both were Conference House, a historical landmark granddaughter. social workers at on Staten Island. He and his wife of more n MARCELLE FUNG, 53, died on Dec. what was then than 60 years, Barbara, lived on Cape Cod 23. At the time of her death, she was called the Bureau after their retirement in 1991, where Mr. serving as an assistant principal at PS 306 of Child Welfare. Burger served on the board of trustees Ethan Allen, an elementary and junior “Her sisters were at the First Parish Universalist Church in high school in Brooklyn. Born in New in education, and Brewster, and worked with neighbors on Amsterdam, Guyana, she was introduced they encouraged a project designating Crowes Pasture as to dance and theater at an early age, and her to move into a conservation area in East Dennis, Mass. emigrated to the U.S. as a teenager. A the educational In addition to his wife, Mr. Burger is sur- graduate of Forth Hamilton High School area, which she vived by two daughters, Jean Romeo and in Brooklyn, she earned multiple degrees, did,” her husband Caroline Beals, and five grandchildren. including a bachelor of business adminis- said. Mrs. Mitchell tration from Baruch College, a masters in taught at PS 57 n CECILLE DAVIS, 94, died on Oct. 3, 2016. special education from Pace University and in Staten Island Born in Brooklyn, she lived in Manhattan a masters in educational leadership from and then PS 29, much of her life and worked as an interior Bank Street College of Education. Ms. Fung where she was an ELEANOR GOLDSTEIN decorator before becoming an art teach- began teaching in 1999. An avid traveler, assistant princi- n In Santa Clara, Cuba, CSA’s travelers were invited to a Senior Center for Latin dancing. er in the early 1950s. In the early 1970s, Ms. Fung made jewelry and spent many pal and principal. Ms. Davis became an art supervisor with mornings at a community dance class. She She retired in Community School District 6 in Harlem, a is survived by her husband, Roy Russell, 2002 and in 2014 Winter Sailaway position she retired from in 1984. A grad- her children, Adia Braz, Zion and Solana moved with her Feb. 19 - 26, 2017 uate of New York University and Columbia Russell, her parents, Clement and Eslyn husband from Board the elegant Celebrity Silhouette Teachers College, she worked from 1954 Fung, three sisters and four brothers. Staten Island to and sail to Coco Cay, Grand Cayman, to 1963 as chair of the art department Newtown, CT, to Falmouth, Jamaica and Cozumel for n DONALD GOLDSTEIN, 72, died on Oct. at Erasmus Hall High School in Brooklyn. be closer to their seven days enjoying the Celebrity expe- 31, 2016. An educator of special needs grandchildren. rience. children, he was supervisor of special In addition to RATES: Begin at $913.42. Ask for education field services at PS 380 John her husband, available free perks. Currently, if you Wayne Elementary School in Brooklyn survivors include book window or higher you may select a when he retired in 2002. “He loved work- her sons, Claude, free perk from beverage package, onboard ing with special needs kids,” said Seija Thomas and credits, unlimited internet or free gratu- Goldstein, his wife of 46 years. “He was David, and three ities. Air and insurance is extra. always coming home with stories about Katherine Sid grandchildren. what they were doing, and especially liked n KATHERINE SID , 84, died on Nov. 27, Winter Caribbean Sail the naughty ones: when they came to his car crash and unable to work, Mrs. Sid in 2016, in Englewood Cliffs, NJ, where she March 11 - 19, 2017 office, he always had games to entertain 1974 found work as a teacher, helping resided since 1980. The daughter of a Sail from Ft. Lauderdale on the them. He may not have loved all the higher administer the Chinese bilingual program principal, she was born in Singapore and Caribbean Princess to Aruba, Bonaire and ups every day, but I know that he loved at Seward Park High School on the lower attended a Christian women’s college in Curacao for an eight-night voyage. those kids.” Born and raised in Queens, east side of Manhattan. Her husband Taiwan before obtaining a scholarship RATES: (subject to change) are cur- Mr. Goldstein attended Forest Hills High recovered and bought another restau- rently: Inside $1,044 pp; Window $1274 to MacMurray College in Jacksonville, IL., School before earning a bachelor’s and rant, but Mrs. Sid remained at Seward, pp; Balcony $1,344 pp; MiniSuite $1,644 where she completed the last two years of master’s degree from Hofstra University. becoming the director of the program, pp. Currently rates include $100 pp her undergraduate education. Summers He also completed all the course work for which drew acclaim for the academic reduced deposit, onboard credits, port a doctorate at Fordham University and performance of its students. She oversaw charges and taxes. Singles, triples, quads, taught courses on special education at an effort that shared the methods used air and insurance are available. Long Island University. “He was a won- at Seward with other bilingual programs derful cook; I never had to make dinner,” around the country. An imposing figure Spring Break recalled his spouse, who described her despite being only five feet tall, Mrs. Sid April 8 - 18, 2017 husband as “a thinker who loved to gar- became the assistant principal for disci- Cruise on the Norwegian Cruise Line Cecille Davis den.” In addition to his wife, survivors pline at Seward, which was troubled by Gem sailing from the port of New York include two children, Andrew and Jennie, gang activity. “She had a reputation as a April 8 and visiting San Juan, St. Thomas, During the summer, from the late 1950s to and a sister, Sylvia Indorsky. bit of a hard ass,” said her son, Michael Sid. St. Maarten, and Tortola, returning to the late 1960s, she was the art director at n GEORGIANA KOKASON, 84, affection- “She worked with the Seventh Precinct — Manhattan on April 18. CSA has secured Camp Hillcroft in Billings, NY. “Her entire ately known as “Georgia,” died on Jan. 4, in those days, they had a police officer in block space for this premium date, when enjoyment in life was focused around stu- at a health care center in the Bronx. Born in the school.” She retired in 2004, two years schools are closed for spring break. dents and art education,” said her son, Eric New York City, she graduated from George before Seward Park High School closed. Currently there is a promo to include Davis. One of those students, Kiran Levy, Washington High School and then earned Chinese bilingual education, however, free gratuities for the first two in each said Ms. Davis encouraged her to apply a BA in guidance and education from West continues at the Seward Park Campus site stateroom. No need to board an airplane! to arts school, and spoke on her behalf to Virginia State College in 1959. She also with the High School for Dual Language Pull up to the pier and sail! Rates begin her mother. “My mom wanted me to be obtained a MA from the College of New and Asian Studies. In her retirement years, at $1,295.56 pp double for as long as our a teacher -- in the 50s, that is what a girl Rochelle. Her 40-year career in education Mrs. Sid doted on her grandchildren. Her allotment lasts! Call for more details. did,” said Ms. Levy, who was accepted to was spent entirely in the Bronx, where husband died in 1995. Survivors include art school with a full scholarship and is Mrs. Kokason was a teacher, guidance another son, Wei Sid, a brother, Lan Hin European Elbe Cruise now an artist in Santa Fe, NM. “If it wasn’t counselor and then a principal at PS 43. Cheng, and two grandchildren. May 13 - 29, 2017 for her, I wouldn’t have had the life I had.” When she retired in 1997, she was a dep- This is our latest and most excit- Her son said Ms. Davis had a bright sense uty superintendent from District 7. “She Send obituary notices to Associate ing Viking River Cruise adventure of humor and an infectious smile, but he was a wonderful person, she taught me a CSA News Editor Kate Gibson at kather- added that she “had an edge to her. In lot,” said her husband, David Kokason. “We Georgiana Kokason [email protected]. CSA NEWS Feb. 2017 Feb. 2017 CSA NEWS 13 were spent with the family of a college friend at the Jersey shore, where she GARY GOLDSTEIN NATION worked in a saltwater taffy shop on the boardwalk and met her future husband, John Sid. She earned a master’s degree Education in education administration at Boston Travel Desk University; moved to New York City and MAINE: married in 1960. While her husband ran a restaurant, Mrs. Sid cared for their two Classes On Race sons. After her husband was injured in a Explore, Vacation, By Land or Sea Enrollment in Portland schools has ney home. Or extend your optional fallen over the last 15 years, but the percentage of black and African visit to Denali and Fairbanks by rail/ youth has risen by over 150%. and/or bus. Students speak over 60 native RATES: begin at $7,575.61 pp languages and almost half are non- for the cruise. Ask about accompa- white, yet only 3% of Portland edu- nying perks! cators are of color. While seeking to improve this ratio, the district is Hawaiian Adventure also better educating teachers with July 13 - 22, 2017 classes on race, poverty and bias. Based upon your bucket list, Classes are designed to help edu- we will journey to the Pacific cators identify challenges, such as jewel Hawaii on an inclusive students feeling marginalized and parents feeling disconnected, and land/air tour using deluxe hotels. fix them. (Maine Public) Depart from New York (ask about other gateways) on July 13 to NEW YORK: Honolulu, July 13-16: Kauai – July 16-19; Maui – July 19-22; Return City Aggies home – July 22. Program includes: John Bowne High School is teach- Round-trip air from New York, ing the next generation of farmers deluxe hotels, transfers, sightsee- with some 600 students enrolled ing, four dinners, nine breakfasts in its 4-year agriculture program. and intra island air. Optional two “Aggies” follow an academic curric- night big island post extension ulum but also learn about diverse available. Call or email (ggold- careers in agriculture. They grow [email protected]) for single, tri- crops, care for livestock, and learn ple, and travel protection. elements of floriculture, viticulture, RATES: $5,192.00 pp dbl; aquaculture, biotechnology and ELEANOR GOLDSTEIN entrepreneurship. (NPR) n In Santa Clara, Cuba, CSA’s travelers were invited to a Senior Center for Latin dancing. $7,599 single. Ask for triples and insurance. MICHIGAN: Winter Sailaway yet! Depart U.S. on May 13 to arrive Sail the Caribbean No Billboards Berlin, May 14. Begin a journey to Feb. 19 - 26, 2017 Jan. 3 - 13, 2018 Berlin, Wittenberg, Meissen, Dresden, A bill to allow billboards on public Board the elegant Celebrity Silhouette Sail on the fabulous Oceania Bad Schandau, Prague, Krakow and school property along state-man- and sail to Coco Cay, Grand Cayman, Riviera. Depart Jan. 3 from Miami and Warsaw. Cruise portion is on the ele- aged roadways that cleared the Falmouth, Jamaica and Cozumel for sail to: Nassau, San Juan, St. Maarten, gant Viking Beyla from May 16-21. legislature in December was vetoed seven days enjoying the Celebrity expe- Antigua, St. Lucia, and St. Barts. This by Gov. Rick Snyder. Snyder said Excluding air, the program is all-in- rience. is a luxury product at deeply reduced the bill would have put the state in clusive, land and tour, using deluxe RATES: Begin at $913.42. Ask for rates while it lasts. Rates include jeopardy of losing federal highway properties throughout. Past passenger available free perks. Currently, if you funding. (Detroit Free Press) loyalty discount, special CSA group rate book window or higher you may select a and reduced air is available. Travel Desk wants to know about free perk from beverage package, onboard MARYLAND: RATES: begin at $6,274 pp double. your dream destinations. Email at credits, unlimited internet or free gratu- Ask for Viking special promo air and Net-Zero Energy ities. Air and insurance is extra. [email protected] with your Katherine Sid additional discounts. The boat accom- top five areas. Hopefully we can Wilde Lake Middle School in modates 100 passengers and space will fulfill your dream! Winter Caribbean Sail go rapidly. Columbia is a $33 million building car crash and unable to work, Mrs. Sid in March 11 - 19, 2017 with an extensive solar panel array 1974 found work as a teacher, helping Sail from Ft. Lauderdale on the that will generate as much energy administer the Chinese bilingual program Caribbean Princess to Aruba, Bonaire and Shades of Ireland onboard credit, free internet and pre- as it uses, making it Maryland’s at Seward Park High School on the lower Curacao for an eight-night voyage. Oct. 9 - 21, 2017 paid gratuities. Deposit locks in perks; first “net-zero energy” school. The east side of Manhattan. Her husband RATES: (subject to change) are cur- Put on the green as we fly to the available for a limited time only. school uses energy-efficient archi- recovered and bought another restau- rently: Inside $1,044 pp; Window $1274 magical Emerald Isle. Experience the RATES: begin at $2,899 pp. tecture and insulation, a geothermal rant, but Mrs. Sid remained at Seward, pp; Balcony $1,344 pp; MiniSuite $1,644 Ring of Kerry, visit a modern dairy heat pump system and lights that becoming the director of the program, pp. Currently rates include $100 pp farm, gaze at the Cliffs of Moher, Kiss respond to the amount of sunlight in the room and shut off when no one which drew acclaim for the academic reduced deposit, onboard credits, port the Blarney Stone, explore Belfast and Spring Break 2018 is there. The school also provides performance of its students. She oversaw charges and taxes. Singles, triples, quads, a farewell castle dinner. Price includes March 31 - April 7, 2018 an opportunity for learning about an effort that shared the methods used air and insurance are available. round-trip air from New York, hotels, Anthem of the Seas, Royal energy production in real time with at Seward with other bilingual programs motor coach sightseeing, transfers and Caribbean, will sail from the port of an “energy Kiosk” in the main hall 17 meals. We have 32 seats and they New York to Orlando, Nassau and around the country. An imposing figure Spring Break that displays how the building is per- despite being only five feet tall, Mrs. Sid April 8 - 18, 2017 will disappear fast! Coco Bay. RATES: $3,999 pp, dbl, including air; forming. (The Baltimore Sun) became the assistant principal for disci- Cruise on the Norwegian Cruise Line RATES: begin at $1,039.19 pp dbl. $4,499 pp single; $3,969 pp triple. Add pline at Seward, which was troubled by Gem sailing from the port of New York $280 pp for insurance. NEVADA: gang activity. “She had a reputation as a April 8 and visiting San Juan, St. Thomas, Northern California Learning Law bit of a hard ass,” said her son, Michael Sid. St. Maarten, and Tortola, returning to August 13 - 21, 2018 “She worked with the Seventh Precinct — Manhattan on April 18. CSA has secured North to Alaska July 10 - 21, 2017 Visit San Francisco, Ironstone The Nevada Youth Legislature in those days, they had a police officer in block space for this premium date, when teaches Nevada high school stu- Elegance abounds on the Seabourn Vineyards, Yosemite National Park, the school.” She retired in 2004, two years schools are closed for spring break. dents about civics but also engages Sojourn. Join us as we sail on one of Sacramento (Railroad Museum), before Seward Park High School closed. Currently there is a promo to include them in setting policy and passing the most deluxe cruise ships around Sacramento, Sonoma, Santa Rosa Chinese bilingual education, however, free gratuities for the first two in each laws that are pertinent to them. (all suites and yacht-like atmosphere and Napa Valley wine train. Program continues at the Seward Park Campus site stateroom. No need to board an airplane! A statewide political body for with 458 passengers). Depart July 21 includes: Round trip air from New Pull up to the pier and sail! Rates begin high school students, the Youth with the High School for Dual Language from Vancouver and sail for 11 nights York, deluxe hotels, transfers, sight- at $1,295.56 pp double for as long as our Legislature is empowered to spon- and Asian Studies. In her retirement years, to Seymour Narrows, Queen Charlotte seeing and 12 meals. Mrs. Sid doted on her grandchildren. Her allotment lasts! Call for more details. sor a bill during each regular session Sound, Ketchikan, Misty Fjords, Behm RATES: $3,379 pp-double; in odd-numbered years. The 21 husband died in 1995. Survivors include Narrows, Wrangel, the Summer Straits, $4,279-single. Ask for triples and insur- members, one from each Senate another son, Wei Sid, a brother, Lan Hin European Elbe Cruise Decision Passage, Sitka, Tracy Arm, ance. district, do research, hold hearings, Cheng, and two grandchildren. May 13 - 29, 2017 Endicot, Seduction Point, Haines, Juneau, and vote on what they will pursue. This is our latest and most excit- Inian Islands, Icy Strait Point to arrive in For more information, contact Gary (Las Vegas Review Journal) Send obituary notices to Associate ing Viking River Cruise adventure Seward (Anchorage) for your return jour- Goldstein at [email protected]. — Compiled by CSA News Editor Kate Gibson at kather- Christine Altman [email protected]. 14 CSA NEWS Feb. 2017 Feb. 2017 CSA NEWS RC Regional Units

GEORGIA Chapter The Georgia Unit ended 2016 with its annual holiday luncheon. Members bought toiletries and medical supplies that were sent to Haiti. Our book club RETIREE is currently reading Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates. On Feb. 3, CHAIR’S MESSAGE I will speak on the crisis of black educa- tion at the Freeman Poole Senior Center Gayle Lockett ‘Repeal and Replace’ in Smyrna, Ga. On Feb. 23, our mem- bers will attend the play “Exit Strategy” which deals with the closing of a school Get Involved, Know in Chicago. Finally, our unit will be Obamacare? Not so Fast honored on Feb. 28 at The Lou Walker Senior Center in Lithonia, Ga. during BY FELICE HANNAH the Marketplace. States that provide Medicaid sub- Your Benefits their black history program. Although AFSA/CSARC OUTREACH LIAISON sidies for Marketplace enrollees have had a greater we are retired, we continue to be active number of people enrolled in health coverage. ore than ever, it is import- educators in our communities. For After President Trump’s inauguration, the While there have been no formal proposals for ant to know that you are more information, contact me at ross- new administration and Republican Congress what would replace the law, some ideas have been never alone in getting [email protected]. timely information con- quickly began to try to figure out how to fulfill floated. For example, there has been a much-dis- — Georgia Harrison cerning your health ben- their promise to “repeal and replace” the Patient cussed system of vouchers that would allow for Mefits provided by the RC Welfare Fund. Protection and Affordable Care Act, or ACA, passed direct contracts between the insured and private You should consider attending workshops by Congress and quickly dubbed Obamacare. plans. The trouble is, when the amount of the PACIFIC COAST provided by Dr. Douglas Hathaway at CSA But repealing the law has not proven so easy. voucher would be applied to premiums and other Our spring lunch meeting will be headquarters – there is one coming up in Some of the key features of the ACA are also cost-sharing, beneficiaries would no longer be pro- held at 11 am on Monday, March 6th. March and another in April. Your regional some of the reasons members of the GOP are fac- tected by a cap in out of pocket costs. The Income Our special guests are confirmed: We unit also provides them. ing stiff opposition to their hopes of gutting the Related Maximum Adjustment Amount could will once again welcome Retiree Chapter Even if you don’t need these services law; It ended the arbitrary cancellation of insur- adjust upward. Limiting charges could be prohib- Chair Gayle Lockett and Welfare Fund now, it is important to be aware of what is ance coverage and lifetime limits for coverage. It ited. Part A and B deductibles would be combined. Administrator Dr. Doug Hathaway. We available and how to obtain them. Often, ended the denial of coverage based on pre-existing The age of Medicare eligibility would increase, will meet, as usual, at Mimi’s Cafe in while attending the welfare health benefit conditions for children and adults. Adults age 26 matching Social Security’s full retirement age. Lake Forest, Calif. The address is: 22651 Retirees workshops, basic questions are addressed, or under are allowed to remain on their parent’s The ACA can be mended without ending Lake Forest Drive. Visiting CSAers are such as how, when and what to submit to health care coverage. These are huge issues for mil- Medicare, the government program that provides should join always welcome to join us. Contact me the Welfare Fund in order to receive par- lions of people around the country. health coverage for the aged, disabled and chil- at [email protected] for fur- tial refunds for medication. When attend- The ACA also provided relief for beneficiaries in dren. If states were mandated to provide Medicaid a regional ther details. ing these workshops, members frequently the ‘donut hole,’ a coverage gap where beneficiaries subsidies for Marketplace enrollees, health cover- — Carol Rainey unit to be learn important information on topics are required to pay the full cost of their medications, age premium costs would become more affordable. they may not have considered. even while they continue to pay premiums, and These are among the many complications involved, Watching for RC email updates, and planned to eliminate the Part D coverage gap - a standing in the way of the GOP’s stated desire to consulting the CSA app will also help you period of consumer payment for prescription med- repeal and replace. On Feb. 7, House Speaker Paul informed. keep abreast of new developments. Please ication costs which lies between the initial cover- Ryan pledged to complete the legislative process reach out to other retirees and encourage age limit and the catastrophic-coverage threshold, this year, a far cry from President Trump’s claims Upcoming Outreach Workshops them to stay involved and informed as well, especially those who when the consumer is a member of a Medicare on the campaign trail that he would immediately retired recently. You can always contact the Welfare Fund at (212) Part D prescription-drug program - by 2020. It discard the law once in office. Speaker Ryan went Workshops will be at 9 am - 1 pm at CSA Headquarters, 40 Rector St., 12th Fl., NYC 962-6061 for answers to questions. We will provide you with as much reduced costs to Medicare by allowing beneficia- on to say implementing whatever changes the information as possible so that you can have a great retirement. ries to remain in their homes and receive services GOP concocts would take even longer. Tuesday, March 21, 2017 Please continue to support the Retiree Chapter and regional through Community Health Care Programs and The truth is, the law has served many people Representatives from Medicare, Social units. All retirees should join one or more of these units to keep Community Care Transition Programs. well. We should do all we can to oppose attempts Security, Office of Labor Relations Health abreast of union activities, benefits, and opportunities. Last month, The law also increased health coverage under to gut it. Benefits Unit, CSA Retiree Welfare Fund and CSA President Ernest Logan, Dr. Douglas Hathaway and I visited The Veteran’s Administration will present on the Southeast Florida and Suncoast regional units. President Logan the following topics: Medicare and Affordable spoke about political action, the future of unions, and the impor- A Roundup Of Free Or Affordable Health Care Updates; Social Security Benefits; tance of strong opposition to a NY state constitutional convention City Health Coverage Plans and Medicare when the matter comes up for a vote in November. Dr. Hathaway Reimbursement; CSA Retiree Welfare Fund spoke about our Retiree Chapter Welfare Fund and supplemental Programs for New York City’s Seniors Benefits for Members and Survivors; Veterans health and IRMAA. Since the RC Welfare Fund is financially sound, New York City has a well html/dfta/html/volunteer/ films, trips, concerns and talks Benefits and Health Coverage. he is going to unveil a plan to implement increasing retirees dental deserved reputation for being an volunteering.shtml. by guest lecturers. An annual benefits and add acupuncture. (Watch for an announcement.) expensive place to live, much less 2. A nonprofit called Older fee of $75 covers it all. For more Tuesday, April 25, 2017 retire in. But for those looking to Adults Technology Services pro- information, call (718) 951-5647 Representatives from the NYC Dept. Reminders acquire new skills, get discounted vides free technology training for or visit irpe.brooklyn.cuny. for the Aging and Access-A-Ride will pres- We make our presence felt politically: Retirees are heading to theater tickets or merely wishing to seniors through a Senior Planet edu. There is also Age-Friendly ent on: Resources and Benefits available Albany on Feb. 13 for a day of advocacy with active CSA members pursue a love for learning, there are Exploration Center in Chelsea, NYC College Link, an online through the Department for the Aging and a large group of retirees will be in the capitol again in May. lots of options, an array of free or the nation’s first tech center spe- searchable database to learn for the Disabled, Homebound and Active The RC will be hosting a finance Lecture:Wills and Trust: affordable programs. Here’s a run- cifically for folks 60 and older. about courses, programs, events Seniors; How to access Caregivers services, Differences & Similarities on March 1, 2017. Register online in the down of some of what CSA came OATS also runs senior-tailored and activities for older adults at resources for homebound and disabled retiree section of CSA’s website. The cost is $10. Remember, it’s across (check out CSA’s website for courses in locations around the many NYC colleges and univer- individuals; How to apply for various ser- important to review and update your financial papers and health a more expansive list in the future city, including libraries, pub- sities: www.agefriendlycollege. vices provided by Access-A-Ride. proxies, and tell a family member where to find these documents. http://www.csa-nyc.org/) lic schools and senior housing org. Another resource that lists Is it time for a new pair of eyeglasses? You are entitled to a reim- developments. For more infor- colleges with reduced or free bursement of $100 once a year for a new pair. With the Retiree 1. The NYC Department mation see: www.oats.org or tuition for seniors is a Senior Name Chapter’s supplemental benefit, you also get an extra $55. Call for the Aging has a website (718) 360-1707 Citizen Guide for College: www. the Welfare Fund for a voucher, purchase eyeglasses, and send the with a variety of useful tools 3. The Institute for Retirees aseniorcitizenguideforcollege. Address receipt and the voucher to the Welfare Fund. for retirees, including a tool in Pursuit of Education is a non- com/2011/04/new-york.html. Finally, we will hold an arts and crafts exhibition June 19 to June for locating a senior center profit organization that operates 4. Senior citizens are among Home Number: Cell: 22. All members are welcome to display their work. Contact Michael in your neighborhood, with at Brooklyn College, at 2900 those eligible for membership Ebenstein at [email protected] or RC at (212) 823-2020 for more than 400 senior cen- Bedford Ave., Brooklyn, NY. It in the Theatre Development E-mail Address: more information. ters across the five boroughs. holds classes from 9 am – 3:30 Fund, a nonprofit that offers There are also links to learn pm weekdays on the campus, discounted tickets for a $34 March 21 april 25 may 17 september 13 about senior benefits in your accessible by bus or train. The annual membership fee. Visit Mail coupon to: CSA Retiree Chapter, 40 Rector Street, 12th Fl., NY, NY 10006. For more informa- community, volunteer oppor- courses include art, literature, www.tdf.org or call (212) 912- tion call: (212) 823-2020, ext.2075. You will receive a reminder prior to the event if you give us tunities and job training and music, current events and his- 9770. Information on discounts an active email address. Make checks for $5 payable to CSA Retiree Chapter. You must enclose a placement assistance if you’d tory, with no exams or home- on cultural events and activities separate check for each workshop. like to continue working. For work. Workshops in painting, can be found through the NYC more information, call: (212) drama, singing, memoir writing Arts Cultural Guide for Seniors: 602-4464 or www.nyc.gov/ are also offered, along with yoga, www.nyc-arts.org/seniors. CSA NEWS Feb. 2017 Feb. 2017 CSA NEWS 15

RC Regional Units Arts and Crafts Show GEORGIA SOUTHEAST FLORIDA MANHATTAN The Retiree Chapter’s first Arts & Chapter The Georgia Unit ended 2016 with On Dec. 12, we held a holiday wine By the end of Jan., you will have Crafts exhibition was a huge success. its annual holiday luncheon. Members and cheese party at the Civic Center in received fliers about our Spring, 2017 We plan to run the show during the bought toiletries and medical supplies Delray Beach. All who attended this event trips. On April 7, we are going to Town week of June 19–22 in Founder’s Hall that were sent to Haiti. Our book club had a wonderful time, and we would like Hall; on April 21, we will see the exhibit with an evening opening. If you are a is currently reading Between the World to thank Elizabeth Moss for organizing at the Morgan Library. Our final trip is member interested in displaying your SUNCOAST and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates. On Feb. 3, it. Our health and welfare meeting was on May 22, when we will have a guided artwork at the Arts and Crafts Show Our two annual meetings for 2017 are I will speak on the crisis of black educa- held on Jan. 23 at the Civic Center. Dr. tour of the D&D Building. All trips at central CSA, email mebenstein@ scheduled for Jan. 24 and March 24. They tion at the Freeman Poole Senior Center Douglas Hathaway and other New York include lunch. Please make your trip csa-nyc.org or mail the CSA Retiree will most likely be held at the Oriental ‘Repeal and Replace’ in Smyrna, Ga. On Feb. 23, our mem- City CSA representatives visited and reservations as soon as you receive the Chapter, 40 Rector Street, 12th Fl., Buffet in Sarasota. Please be there for bers will attend the play “Exit Strategy” were available to answer your questions. fliers in order to avoid being put on a NY, NY 10006 or call (212) 823-2020. which deals with the closing of a school Please do not forget to register for our waiting list. informative guests and to see your col- leagues. Details will be mailed in early Jan. in Chicago. Finally, our unit will be annual luncheon and morning meet- — Stanley H Wilson Obamacare? Not so Fast honored on Feb. 28 at The Lou Walker ing at Benevento’s Catering in Boynton Questions? Call me at (941) 383-0408 or Beach on Feb. 27. Other dates to remem- Please provide all the email: [email protected]. the Marketplace. States that provide Medicaid sub- Senior Center in Lithonia, Ga. during ber: March 10, when we will have our QUEENS information below. — Michael Nemoytin sidies for Marketplace enrollees have had a greater their black history program. Although we are retired, we continue to be active health fair, and March 22, when we will number of people enrolled in health coverage. We will enjoy our first luncheon of Name take a trip, including lunch, to Flamingo While there have been no formal proposals for educators in our communities. For 2017 on Tuesday, Feb. 14, at SriPraPhai, Gardens. LOWER HUDSON VALLEY what would replace the law, some ideas have been more information, contact me at ross- a Thai restaurant in Williston Park. — Lois Turetzky Unit members have been very busy floated. For example, there has been a much-dis- [email protected]. It’s no accident that Feb. 14 is also — Georgia Harrison this fall. They visited the Culinary Institute cussed system of vouchers that would allow for Valentine’s Day, so this will be a great Email Address Academy on Sept. 13, and on Sept. 22 they direct contracts between the insured and private opportunity for members to cele- CENTRAL NEW JERSEY enjoyed a beautiful afternoon luncheon plans. The trouble is, when the amount of the brate with our colleagues and families. PACIFIC COAST at the Davenport Mansion on the Sound voucher would be applied to premiums and other The spring bagel breakfast to wel- Complete details were already sent to in New Rochelle. They were honored to cost-sharing, beneficiaries would no longer be pro- Our spring lunch meeting will be come back our snowbirds will be held you, but you may also view and print a Home Number have President Ernest Logan as their spe- tected by a cap in out of pocket costs. The Income held at 11 am on Monday, March 6th. on May 17 at 9:30 am at the Monroe copy of the flier on our website, www. cial guest. In Nov., they enjoyed a per- Related Maximum Adjustment Amount could Our special guests are confirmed: We Township Library, 4 Municipal Plaza, csaqueens.org. Please don’t forget to Cell formance of “Saturday Night Fever” at adjust upward. Limiting charges could be prohib- will once again welcome Retiree Chapter Monroe Township, NJ. PLEASE NOTE renew your membership in our unit by Media Of Your Art Work the Westchester Broadway Theater. Now, ited. Part A and B deductibles would be combined. Chair Gayle Lockett and Welfare Fund THE NEW LOCATION. This is a modern sending $15.00 along with the renewal they are looking forward to their Holiday The age of Medicare eligibility would increase, Administrator Dr. Doug Hathaway. We facility which I am sure you will enjoy. form, which can be found on our web- Party at the Olde Stone Mill in Tuckahoe matching Social Security’s full retirement age. will meet, as usual, at Mimi’s Cafe in Our guest speaker will be Craig Small, site. The membership year runs from on Dec. 16. Contact me if you would like The ACA can be mended without ending Lake Forest, Calif. The address is: 22651 who will present a dynamic lecture enti- Jan. 1 until Dec. 31. Remember to check Number and Size of Pieces to attend the holiday party. Medicare, the government program that provides Lake Forest Drive. Visiting CSAers are tled “The Greatest Show on (and off) our website periodically for up to date — Janice Imundi health coverage for the aged, disabled and chil- always welcome to join us. Contact me Earth,” describing the upcoming solar information concerning all CSA matters. dren. If states were mandated to provide Medicaid at [email protected] for fur- eclipse and related topics. Be sure to save If you have any questions you can con- subsidies for Marketplace enrollees, health cover- ther details. the date! tact me at [email protected]. ROCKLAND ORANGE BERGEN — Carol Rainey — Lucille S. Vecchiarelli — Len Sterman age premium costs would become more affordable. The Rockland Orange Bergen unit These are among the many complications held its luncheon on Sept. 16 at the standing in the way of the GOP’s stated desire to Casa Mia. Dr. Douglas Hathaway was repeal and replace. On Feb. 7, House Speaker Paul our guest speaker and he provided us Ryan pledged to complete the legislative process Living Well All with great information. Our next meet- this year, a far cry from President Trump’s claims Upcoming Outreach Workshops ing will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 8. on the campaign trail that he would immediately (vote before or after the meeting) at the discard the law once in office. Speaker Ryan went Workshops will be at 9 am - 1 pm at CSA Headquarters, 40 Rector St., 12th Fl., NYC Around the World Nanuet Public Library. Doors open at on to say implementing whatever changes the “Age is an issue of mind over matter,” quipped the great pitcher Satchel 10 am and the meeting starts at 10:30 GOP concocts would take even longer. Tuesday, March 21, 2017 Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Paige. “If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.” with a continental breakfast. Our guest The truth is, the law has served many people Representatives from Medicare, Social The workshop will help you to understand At a time when demographic studies show alarming drops in lifespans speaker will be Patty Hane, a registered well. We should do all we can to oppose attempts Security, Office of Labor Relations Health information provided on your Explanation of among a wide range of Americans, our retirees seem to be doing quite pharmacist with extensive experience in to gut it. Benefits Unit, CSA Retiree Welfare Fund and Benefits (EOB) and Medicare Summary Notices well. Perhaps the security of a stable retirement, a vibrant community community pharmacy, hospital phar- The Veteran’s Administration will present on (MSN) and how to avoid becoming a victim of colleagues, and solid healthcare benefits helps offset the undeniable macy and consulting pharmacy. She the following topics: Medicare and Affordable of Medicare Fraud. Felice Hannah, also a CSA stress attached to a long career as a school leader. CSA’s retirement unit will be discussing food and drug inter- A Roundup Of Free Or Affordable Health Care Updates; Social Security Benefits; Retiree member, will discuss Medicare Part A/B has members in 42 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and five actions, shelf life and more. City Health Coverage Plans and Medicare and Part D. She will explain how Medicare foreign countries. — Bart Bookman Programs for New York City’s Seniors Reimbursement; CSA Retiree Welfare Fund Advantage Plans and Original Medicare with a It’s all the more reason to remind younger, active members of the ben- Benefits for Members and Survivors; Veterans Supplemental Plan provide health coverage. efits of collective bargaining and the support of a strong union. films, trips, concerns and talks Benefits and Health Coverage. – CW by guest lecturers. An annual Wednesday, September 13, 2017 fee of $75 covers it all. For more Tuesday, April 25, 2017 An attorney specializing in estate plan- Ages of CSA Retiree Chapter Members information, call (718) 951-5647 Representatives from the NYC Dept. ning and elder law will present on how to or visit irpe.brooklyn.cuny. for the Aging and Access-A-Ride will pres- protect your assets and other related areas. 55-60 452 edu. There is also Age-Friendly ent on: Resources and Benefits available Representatives from TRS and the Veteran’s NYC College Link, an online through the Department for the Aging Administration explain how to protect your 61-69 3,535 searchable database to learn for the Disabled, Homebound and Active beneficiaries. Forms that you will need to sub- 70-79 4,067 about courses, programs, events Seniors; How to access Caregivers services, mit to federal, state and city agencies will be and activities for older adults at resources for homebound and disabled provided. Ms. Hannah will present a hands-on 80-89 1,920 individuals; How to apply for various ser- workshop on advanced planning and getting many NYC colleges and univer- 90-99 549 sities: www.agefriendlycollege. vices provided by Access-A-Ride. your papers in order before a crisis occurs. org. Another resource that lists 100+ 24 colleges with reduced or free tuition for seniors is a Senior Name Citizen Guide for College: www. aseniorcitizenguideforcollege. Address com/2011/04/new-york.html. Welcome New Members 4. Senior citizens are among Home Number: Cell: those eligible for membership Bardeguez-Brown, Carmen Essor, Claudette Biondollilo, Marie Gootnick, Saul in the Theatre Development E-mail Address: Fund, a nonprofit that offers Carr, Angela Furleiter, Abraham discounted tickets for a $34 Catalano, Victoria Kennedy, Kateri March 21 april 25 may 17 september 13 annual membership fee. Visit Mail coupon to: CSA Retiree Chapter, 40 Rector Street, 12th Fl., NY, NY 10006. For more informa- De Millio, Raquel Lowenstein, Kenneth www.tdf.org or call (212) 912- tion call: (212) 823-2020, ext.2075. You will receive a reminder prior to the event if you give us Dibartolomeo, Joel Rapheal, David 9770. Information on discounts an active email address. Make checks for $5 payable to CSA Retiree Chapter. You must enclose a Dike, Grace Reilly, Catherine on cultural events and activities separate check for each workshop. Dubitsky, Rose Varano, Diane can be found through the NYC Elliot, Mable Volkommer, Gerald Arts Cultural Guide for Seniors: www.nyc-arts.org/seniors. efforts toprotecttheirstudents andfam- Spanish-speaking newcomers, continues School, atransitionalbilingualschoolfor immigrants, eral policiesregardingundocumented the PolicyCurve Staying Aheadof crisis and heroin epidemic,” added Pollari. and almost everyone knewabout the drug problem intheStatenIslandcommunity principal. “We asked them to identify a Staten Island,”saidLisaPollari,assistant ness oftheheroinproblemexplodingon hope ofpromotingeducationandaware- lic serviceannouncementvideo“inthe ested incivics,thestudentscreatedapub- nonprofit aimedatgettingstudentsinter- Wagner CollegeandGenerationCitizen,a school studentsaboutdrugs.Alongwith have takentheleadineducatingmiddle Say NoToDrugs Staten Island Brooklyn E As concernsgrowoverupcomingfed- teens Port RichmondHighSchoolteens they have worked together they haveworkedtogether with homemadepancakes; during atradelessonthatended studied theoriginalcolonies the curriculum.Studentshave gardening andcookinginto dents andteacherstointegrate NYC haspartneredwithstu- Since 2015,EdibleSchoolyard a SouthernChefinDecember. and hisYouTubeshowSonof Lynch, withstudentsatright, proud tohostChefLazarus Exploration inBrooklynwas Cooking toCurriculum YouTube StarBrings

Borough FEBRUARY 2017 School for Urban School forUrban at dible SchoolyardNYC Evergreen Middle Evergreen Middle Multicultural High Printed onFSCcertifiedpaper (DIST. 13-23,32) (D-31) NYC. Lauren Reiss is principal. NYC. LaurenReissisprincipal. a culinaryartshighschoolin spoke abouthisexperienceat kitchen classroomswhileLynch experiences inthegardenand the day,studentssharedtheir cornbread chili.Throughout use garlictomakevegetarian and hetaughtstudentshowto taught Lynchhowtogrowgarlic and newfavorites. ularies throughfamiliarrecipes improved theirpracticalvocab- English LanguageLearnershave seeds fortheschoolgarden;and to buildgrowlightsandstart 40 RectorSt.,NY,NY10006 Local 1AFSA,AFL-CIO New YorkStateFederationofSchoolAdministrators Council ofSchoolSupervisors&Administrators,NYC During the visit, the students During thevisit,students Briefs / own uniquesnowflakesand captured Day onJan.6.Thestudentsmade their reading EzraJackKeats’bookTheSnowy enjoyed thefirstsnowdayofyearby English as Another Language students resources.” resources.” they couldprovideadditionalsupportand concerns andaskedquestionsastohow of ourstudentsandfamilies,alsovoiced members, with aninterestinthewelfare Peter Ng-A-Fook, assistant principal. “Staff with staffandexpertsinthefield,”said supported insharingsensitiveinformation clinics forstudentsandtheirfamilies. In addition,theschoolhasheldthreelegal Know YourRightsworkshopinDecember. University’s School of Law to convene a Affairs, CatholicCharitiesandFordham the Mayor’sOfficeofImmigrant Hills LocalDevelopmentCorporation, ilies. TheschoolpartneredwithCypress Literacy, TheArts The SnowyDay: ’s PS 97TheForestParkSchool’s “Students and families felt safe and “Students andfamiliesfeltsafe and Queens (DIST. 24-30)

In The immigrant studentsandtheirfamilies. Multicultural HighSchooltohelp protectundocumented n AKnowYourRightsworkshopwasheldatBrooklyn’s experience.” experience.” allow ourstudentstorememberagreat cipal. “Webelieveliteracyandartswill spectacular,” saidMarilynCustodio,prin- snowfall of2017withthisgreatbookis rienced a snowfall so to highlight the first our immigrantstudentshaveneverexpe- in theirelementaryschooldays.Someof offer ourstudentsamazingexperiences first snowfallof2017.“Wearethrilledto the magicandsenseofpossibility Schools Corey Bachman Compiled by donation of 20 new computers to Hop Star Fat Joe announced the President RubenDiazJr.andHip Star’s Alma Mater Star’s AlmaMater Tech forHipHop On December 20, Bronx Borough Bronx and AdditionalMailingOffice Brooklyn, NY11201 US POSTAGEPAIDAT Periodicals the newcomputers. in the library alongside her honorwillbeplaced the school.Aplaquein Fat Joe, was a graduate of Lisa Cartegena,who,like ory oftherapper’ssister, tion wasmadeinmem- autographs. The dona students andsigned Ames, tookpictureswith Superintendent Dr.Karen Laurent and District 8 with PrincipalRonald The rapper,whomet Elementary School. 146 Edward Collins csa-nyc.org. Corey Bachmanatcorey@ Send Borough Briefs to Send BoroughBriefsto (DIST. 7-12) PS PS -