Advocacy: Pay Parity For Early Childhood Educators page 5 CSA Member Wins NAESP Vice Presidency page 5 Harnessing The Power Of Union’s RC Members page 6

April 2021 Volume 56, Number 8 American Federation NEWS of School Administrators, COUNCIL OF SCHOOL SUPERVISORS AND ADMINISTRATORS AFL-CIO Local 1 Following Years President’s Mark Of Advocacy, Viewpoint Cannizzaro Budget Clouds Lifted, City Must Budget Victories Invest Money Where It Counts ust a few months ago, we were losing sleep over how we would emerge from the pandemic while For Schools facing down a huge financial deficit that was likely to be with us for years. We worried about having the resourcesJ to provide adequate academic and social/emo- BY CHUCK WILBANKS tional programs for students in the year ahead. I had been speaking out about holding you harmless for enrollment For many years, CSA has been losses related to the pandemic. And I had continued testi- a fierce advocate for Fair Student fying before the City Council regarding the city’s inequi- Funding and other crucial budget table application of Fair Student Funding (FSF), a struggle issues that would benefit the city’s CSA had been engaged in for years, but which seemed schools, particularly those most in unlikely to be won any time soon. Overall, the predicted need of help. It now appears that budget was dire. the calls for adequate funding finally Suddenly, the financial outlook brightened beyond have been answered. On April 19, what most of us could have imagined. Majority Leader Mayor de Blasio announced that Welcome Chuck Schumer, a NYC public-school graduate, helped hundreds of millions of dollars will News On to secure billions for our state and city through President flow to more than 1,000 schools in Biden’s federal stimulus package. Then, the State passed City, schools which have Federal its budget ensuring increased Foundation Aid to New York fallen short of Fair Student Funding City with a promise that federal dollars would supple- guidelines. And State ment, not supplant, state aid. All in all, the budget prom- “This is a historic day for New ises to be transformative. York City’s public schools and a tre- Funding The happiest corollary to all this is that state law- mendous win for students,” said CSA makers committed to fully funding Foundation Aid, the President Mark Cannizzaro. “We state formula that determines funding to districts based CHUCK WILBANKS applaud the Mayor and Chancellor on student need. The $1.4 billion currently owed to n State Sen. Robert Jackson: A mix of for finally fully funding our schools relief, tempered with wariness. Continued on Page 2 Continued on Page 2 Politics As COVID Exacerbated CSA Endorses Stringer Hunger, CSA Members In NYC’s Mayoral Race Beefed Up Food Pantries BY CSA NEWS STAFF “Public school communities have faced countless challenges After receiving input from this past year due to the severe members, CSA’s political team, impact of the pandemic,” said and the advisory board, CSA’s CSA President Mark Cannizzaro. n Principal “We need a leader in City Hall Allison with the skills, experience and Farrington, vision to appropriately address in the food Longtime Supporter our students’ academic, social pantry at Of and emotional needs. That Research and leader is . A pub- Service HS, Public Schools, And lic-school parent, dedicated prioritized public servant and lifelong New making the Ally To Our Union Yorker, Comptroller Stringer has space feel spent his career fighting for our like a small schools, supporting leaders and supermarket executive board voted over- administrators, and advocating so families whelmingly to endorse Scott for common sense policies to could shop Stringer for mayor. Comptroller improve education in New York with dignity. Stringer has been a longtime sup- City. He has innovative, bold porter of New York City public plans to transform classrooms for BY EMMA KATE FITTES school’s expansive food pantry. They schools and a strong ally to our future generations, and he will be can pick up anything from a new coat union. Continued on Page 3 At least once a week, students at to a pound of ground turkey to a stick of Research and Service High School in deodorant — all at no cost. are welcome to shop at the Continued on Page 3 2 CSA NEWS April 2021

PRESIDENT’S PAGE Recent Announcement

Council of School Heralds Opportunities Supervisors & Administrators American Federation of School Administrators, AFL-CIO, Local 1 Let’s See Pay Parity In ECE, New Technology And More. By Mark Cannizzaro 40 Rector St., NY, NY 10006 Phone: (212) 823-2020 Continued from Page 1 will be leading the charge. And certainly, Fax: (212) 962-6130 NYC schools will now be phased in over it should also be used for expanding tech- www.csa-nyc.org the next 3 years, and the court case won by nology for the many children who do not the Campaign for Fiscal Equity in 2006 will have adequate access, and to the schools President become a true victory at last. A key plaintiff that must replace or repair technological Mark Cannizzaro in that case was State Senator Robert Jackson, equipment that they distributed during the Executive Vice President who never gave up and deserves a special Henry Rubio pandemic. Moving forward, every child note of thanks. must have access to reliable devices and all First Vice President other appropriate technological resources. Rosemarie Sinclair • • • Treasurer • • • Christopher Ogno nd now, happily, the city has com- mitted to spending the $600 million hile it goes without saying that Secretary necessary so that all schools are funded Steffani Fanizzi A intensive instruction will have at 100 percent of the Fair Student Formula. I to be provided for children who Vice Presidents W Sam Akel, Jose Garcia, Ramon Gonzalez believe that supplemental funding should also have fallen behind, it is also time to restore Lois Lee, Katiana Louissaint be provided for unique circumstances, includ- the activities that are the lifeblood of our Nancy Russo, Retiree Chapter ing high average teacher’s salary and unfilled schools and sometimes make the difference Executive Director Operations seats. Remaining dollars should also go in whether our children want to come to Erminia Claudio directly to schools, based upon student need. school in the first place. The arts, shop General Counsel It’s important to add a word about early classes, or after-school sports teams might David Grandwetter childhood education. The mayor has already announced that be just the thing that plays to their strengths and makes them the city will use some of the funding to make significant new stick around for everything else. At last, we may have the Executive Director Field Services investment in expanding 3-K and pre-K programs. I believe part opportunity to safely recover many of these activities in person. Sana Q. Nasser of that must be go to bringing up to par the salaries of directors There are families who are looking for any excuse to return Field Directors and assistant directors who head centers in community-based to our schools. They could seize upon the resumption of jazz James Harrigan organizations and are currently making about half of what club or our excellent social and emotional supports, or just Reginald Landeau, Jr. their Department of Education counterparts earn, without the the fact that they can now send their child back to school in Dorothy Morris Frank Patterson same benefits. Most of them are women of color who fall into person with consistency. Since the start of the pandemic, four Mercedes Qualls the “Tale of Two Cities” scenario which the mayor had prom- percent of students have left us, and in cities across the nation Wanda Soto ised to correct some eight years ago. No longer can the city say the story is the same. Some have moved to other towns to Assistant Field Directors it doesn’t have the funding to make sure these early childhood avoid tight quarters or to care for relatives. Some have found Beshir Abdellatif, Eleanor Andrew, professionals achieve parity and respect. the instability too nerve-wracking and have opted for pri- Millie Boyce, Dominic Cipollone, We find ourselves at a true turning point in achieving vate schools. With the budget that was announced early this Brian De Vale, Peter Devlin, Nancy Esposito, Roberto Flores, Ellie Greenberg, equity. The emphasis will be on recovering from 18 months month, we have a unique opportunity to create programs that Ray Gregory, Joseph LaCascia, Kenneth Llinas, of inconsistent operations, academic loss, and emotional will bring them back full of hope and optimism. James McKeon, Monica McDonald, trauma. Nearly $1 billion of federal relief money will go to Beverly Pascal-Miller, Steven Resnick, this effort. The money should also be used for providing Mark Cannizzaro is president of the Council of School Sandra Solis, Yvonne Williams differentiated professional development for educators who Supervisors and Administrators.

Grievance Director Dale Kelly Assistant Directors Carol Atkins, Robert Colon, Jermaine Garden Finally, Calls Appear To Be Answered For Director of Communications Craig DiFolco Director of Political Affairs Thousands Of Underfunded NYC Schools Gabe Gallucci Assistant Director, Political Affairs Continued from Page 1 “It’s not over ‘til it’s over,” he said. to the New York State Senate. Herman Merritt so that school leaders and their staff “OK, you phase it in, but the funding has Noting that Mr. Rebell filed another Assistant Director can deliver the high-quality education to be continued after that. What if (the lawsuit to secure funding – a suit that was John Khani our students truly deserve. For years, governor and legislature) don’t come put on hold due to the pandemic -- Sen. Special Assistant to President our union has aggressively advocated through the second year or the third year? Jackson’s advice is stark: “I would say to Gary Goldstein for funding all schools at 100%, and we What we want is an iron-clad guarantee. Michael Rebell, keep the lawsuit alive.” CSA Conference Chair thank the City Council for partnering Right now, there is no iron-clad guaran- And like Mr. Rebell, Sen. Jackson advo- Pierre Lehmuller with us in that long, arduous, and per- tee.” cates that the sums and formulas arrived CSA Historian sistent fight.” His caution is justified. In 1993, Mr. at in 2006 be revisited to reflect contem- Manfred Korman Mr. Cannizzaro also sounded a note Jackson was a lead plaintiff in a suit porary realities. CSA Retiree Chapter brought by parents and activists demand- “It absolutely has to be revised,” he Gayle Lockett, Chair of caution: “We understand that there is Mark Brodsky, Director more work to do around the Fair Student ing that New York State properly fund said. “What does it take now, in 2021- Funding Formula itself and will continue its public schools. He and other activists 2022, after a year or more in a pandemic to advocate that all schools are funded to marched 150 miles to Albany to publicize -- after kids haven’t received the educa- CSA NEWS best serve students.” the case. A thirteen year long legal battle tion and help they need -- what does it Editor The city’s budget boost was made pos- ensued, led by attorney Michael Rebell, take to give them a sound basic educa- Chuck Wilbanks sible because of federal aid to state educa- before New York State’s highest court tion? The governor and legislature must Design Consultant tion budgets. Earlier in April, the State leg- ruled in favor of Mr. Jackson and the determine that. Let’s assume it’s a lot Michele Pacheco islature passed a budget providing nearly other members of the Campaign for Fiscal more money. Are we going to do what Production Assistant Equity. That 2006 decision resulted in the we need to do to guarantee that children Christine Altman $12 billion total to schools and fully funding Foundation Aid, to be phased in state government pledging to give schools have the education they need? CSA News (004-532) is published over three years. around the state more than $5 billion. “We’re going to depend on attorneys monthly except July and August for $35 In a recent discussion about the state Then came the 2007 financial crisis. and the state Education Department. It’s per year per member by CSA, 40 Rector St., NY, NY 10006. Periodical postage education budget, State Sen. Robert Jackson, The ensuing recession meant that most a good thing Lester Young is chancellor, paid at Manhattan, NY, and additional a long-time education activist who has of the money for Foundation Aid never and Betty Rosa is head of the Education mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send fought for decades to make sure the state’s came. More years passed, which included Department. These are two people who address changes to CSA News, 40 Rector St., NY, NY 10006. schools are properly funded, reacted to the another march on Albany in 2013, and were deeply involved in the education news with relief tempered by wariness. more recently, Robert Jackson’s election system. And that’s a good thing.” April 2021 CSA NEWS 3 Food Pantry: Students, Community Needs Met At Brooklyn Transfer High Schools Continued from Page 1 member was at the school every which she believes sends a sublim- Traffic at the pantry — which looks day, despite the building being inal message of shame to students more like a small supermarket — always closed, in case a community mem- — and was organized and invento- increases at the end of the week or ber needed supplies. The pantry ried like a grocery store. It includes before holiday breaks, says Principal offered everything from cereal and a washer and dryer that students Allison Farrington. That’s when stu- canned vegetables to warm meals, can use. The operation is overseen dents ensure their families have enough as well as toiletries like toilet paper by a staff member and two stu- to get by until they’re back in school. and soap. dent interns. Ms. Farrington is also So, when the building closed during the The school also launched com- meticulous about what donations pandemic, those were the students Ms. munity food distributions. During they accept, preferring funds to Farrington worried about. one event in March, staff gave purchase fresh food over canned School food pantries are becoming away 270 20-pound boxes of food. goods with nearing expiration increasingly common in New York City, The goal is to continue the distri- dates. and beyond, as educators strive to fill the butions every week, Ms. Leong said. With the school building basic needs that may otherwise distract Ms. Farrington and her staff at reopened, students returned to from students’ learning. But at a moment Research and Service High also held shopping in the pantry as needed. when layoffs, loss and sickness exacer- large food drives, inviting parents Next, the school is working toward bated those needs for many families, to pick up bags of food. Each family growing fresh produce through students were cut off from this resource. received between seven and 10 bags hydroponics to support a farmers As a result, many principals got cre- of food, Ms. Farrington said. The market for families on Saturday. ative, quickly expanding or redefining drives were strategically scheduled None of it is wasted effort, Ms. their food pantries to get supplies to before holidays and spring break. Farrington said. Echoing Principal families. “There’s a bigger need [now] n Principal April Leong helps distribute food to a Leong, she said the food center “We found out that as soon as we due to the pandemic,” she said. school family member. builds trust, improves students’ get students to trust us, they open up,” “But I think that the need always learning, and ultimately attracts said April Leong, Principal of Liberation existed.” within the student body. more families to the Brooklyn Diploma Plus High School. “I expanded The school pantry started six years “I said that if we are going to do transfer school. [the pantry] when COVID hit because ... ago, Ms. Farrington said, after a cou- it, we are going to do it big,” Ms. “If a student can come to you with we knew more of our families were going ple of students pitched her on the idea. Farrington said. “I wanted it to be a their most basic need of hunger, they to struggle.” They were researching the link between place in which kids and parents can can come to you and say, ‘I’m strug- Anyone in need was welcome to use poverty and obesity and the lack of shop in dignity.” gling with reading, I’m struggling with the pantry, Ms. Leong said, not just stu- healthy food options in low-income Ms. Farrington made sure the pantry math,’” she said. “Because they feel safe dents and their families. At least one staff areas for class and recognized the need wasn’t located in a closet or basement — with you.”

Political Endorsements Union VP To Be Feted Elections: Leadership For NYC St. John’s University Chapter 161 of Phi Delta Kappa invites Continued from Page 1 As a public-school parent, I a chance to succeed. I’m you to its virtual annual instal- ready on day one as mayor to understand these challenges. thrilled to have the Council lation ceremony on June 2, at implement them to bring a We need to fundamen- of School Supervisors and 7 pm. Educator of the Year robust post-COVID recovery.” tally transform our schools Administrators by my side Awards will be given to CSA Comptroller Scott and give every child the in this campaign.” Executive Vice President Henry Stringer offered the fol- resources they need to flour- Rubio, Old Westbury School lowing statement: “I am ish — from birth to college • • • Superintendent Dr. Edus Buhai, honored to receive this or career. As mayor, I vow In addition to Mr. Stringer and a St. John’s University profes- endorsement. Public school to work with principals and for mayor, CSA endorsed the sor. Our scholarship recipient will principals and adminis- administrators to make sure following candidates for the be a St. John’s University student trators have done heroic all our children get back on June primaries. In some of the majoring in education. The sub- work helping our students track from this pandemic races, we have endorsed two scription is $35/person. Please reg- navigate the serious chal- and improve our education candidates, in others we have ister on EventBrite. lenges of this school year. Comptroller Scott Stringer system so every child has given a ranked choice selection.

City Council C.D. 34 – Jennifer Gutierrez Teachers’ C.D. 1 – Jenny Low C.D. 36 – Robert Waterman and Tahirah Moore C.D. 2 – C.D. 37 – Retirement C.D. 4 – Keith Powers C.D. 39 – Shahana Hanif and Briget Rein System C.D. 5 – Julie Menin C.D. 40 – Josue Pierre C.D. 6 – C.D. 41 – Alicka Ampry-Samuel April 2021 C.D. 7 – Shaun Abreu and Stacy Lynch C.D. 42 – Nikki Lucas and Charles Barron C.D. 8 – C.D. 43 – Justin Brannon Unit Values C.D. 10 – 1st Carmen De La Rosa 2nd Johanna Garcia C.D. 44 – Diversified Equity C.D. 12 – C.D. 45 – Fund: 125.792 C.D. 13 – Marjorie Velazquez C.D. 46 – Shirley Paul and Mercedes Narcisse C.D. 14 – Pierina Sanchez C.D. 48 – Steven Saperstein Balanced Fund: 17.297 C.D. 16 – 1st Althea Stevens 2nd Yves Filius C.D. 49 – 1st Amoy Barnes 2nd Ranti Ogunleye International Equity C.D. 17 – C.D. 51 – Fund: 12.687 C.D. 19 – 1st Austin Shafran 2nd Richard Lee Sustainable Equity C.D. 21 – Fund: 25.038 C.D. 22 – Tiffany Caban Bronx BP – First: ; Second: Fernando Cabrera C.D. 26 – Julia Forman and Julie Won Brooklyn BP – First: ; Second: Jo Anne Simon U.S Equity Index C.D. 27 – 1st Nantasha Williams 2nd Harold Miller BP – Fund: 14.264 C.D. 28 – Adrienne Adams International Equity C.D. 31 – Selvena Brooks-Powers District Attorney Index Fund: 12.717 C.D. 33 – Lincoln Restler Brooklyn DA – Eric Gonzalez www.trsnyc.org 4 CSA NEWS April 2021

that strengthens the union as it exists and NATION In Memoriam operates today. “Much of the heralded success of the merger coupled with the outstanding achieve- ments until today, was in large measure due Education to the brilliance and strength exhibited by Bill Present At The Creation before, during and after the Retiree Chapter for- mation,” said Mr. Goldstein. “He had a unique PENNSYLVANIA BY MARJORIE HACK Administrators (RSSA). Benjamin Mandel ability to eliminate adversity and hostility.” was the new group’s first president. Mr. Pinkett’s wife, Mary, died in 2003 at the Literacy Gap Jim Mehlman and Bill Pinkett, CSA It took 44 years of conversation, age of 72. Though data is limited on the members who died recently, had strong negotiation, strategizing, and teamwork, “He and his wife worked for the working impact the pandemic has had on ties to the formation of the union and its but, according to the history written by people of the city,” said Dr. Douglas Hathaway, education loss, a recent report Retiree Chapter. In 1962, when NYC pub- Irwin Shanes, what had seemed impos- administrator of CSA’s Welfare Fund. “He was a in Philadelphia found significant lic school principals and administrators sible came to fruition on June 27, 2005. kind, incredibly supportive presence for us at decline in reading assessments formed a union, membership was open The RSSA, under Mr. Shanes’ leadership, CSA. Whenever there was a discussion around for grades 1-5 in the past year. only to active, in-service employees. In a and the CSA, headed by Jill Levy, began a table about policy matters, people would Students who moved from look to Bill to know the best thing to do.” division common to many unions, in-ser- the unification process after 95 percent Kindergarten to First Grade last vice members worried retirees would of ballots cast approved the merger. fall lost the most ground. The ELIAS (ELI) JOSEPH SMITH, 40, died outnumber/outvote them, while many The CSA Executive Board welcomed district is considering expanding March 27 in Carmel, IN, after he was struck the CSA Retiree Chapter into its fold. one-to-one tutoring and summer retirees thought they should be a part of by a falling tree as he ran for cover during a school options to help close the CSA, but not as second-class citizens. The “It was important for retirees to have a hail storm. Mr. Smith, who lived in Brooklyn, literacy gap. (Chalkbeat) differences came to a head in 1971, when voice within the union,” said Mr. Shanes was in town visiting his parents to celebrate CSA President Walter Degnan reluctantly recently. “Retirees could do and say his father’s birthday, which was on March 28. assisted retirees to form their own group things that active members couldn’t do “Something that was supposed to be a OKLAHOMA called the Retired School Supervisors and — such as lobby. It is a good marriage.” post-Covid celebration actually turned into Summer Catch-Up something terrible,” his brother-in-law Steve Wagner told the Indianapolis Sta. “The neigh- In an effort to continue educa- borhood looks like a tornado came through.” tional support this summer, Tulsa JOSEPH IRA (JIM) MEHLMAN, 93, died Mehlman’s partner late in life; his sister, Edith March 25. The son of a NYC assistant super- Leshaw, and grandchildren, Griffin, Kyle and Mr. Smith graduated in 1998 from and other districts are developing intendent, Maurice Mehlman, he was born in Sophie. Carmel High School, and earned his bache- enhanced plans to offer programs Brooklyn and grew up in East Flatbush, grad- WILLIAM PINKETT, 92, died Feb. 27. He lor’s degree in economics from Washington that will combine academics with uating from Samuel J. Tilden High School. Mr. lived in Brooklyn. A staunch supporter of University in St. Louis, where he was a mem- play and in-person socialization. Mehlman enrolled in Brooklyn Polytech with retired CSA members, Mr. Pinkett won the Free full-day camps at schools, the goal of becoming an engineer, before respect and friendship of those who knew him shared academic lessons across transferring to City College of New York in and worked alongside him to bring this group states, experiential projects and Manhattan to study accounting en route to of professionals into the CSA. internships for older students becoming a CPA. That didn’t seem right either, Mr. Pinkett was born in New Haven, CT, but are just some of the plans being said his daughter, Susan McCarthy, so he moved with his family to Brooklyn, NY when developed. In Washington, D.C., enrolled in Brooklyn College where he earned he was two years old. He remained a resident teens that need more credits a bachelor’s degree in education. He later of the borough for the rest of his life. will be able to earn a pay check earned a master’s degree in education as well. Mr. Pinkett graduated with honors from by working part of the day in Mr. Mehlman married his wife, the former the Boys High School in Bedford-Stuyvesant. the summer youth program and Ruth Altschuler, herself a teacher, in 1950. The He earned a bachelor’s degree in education attending classes for the remain- couple continued to live in Brooklyn until mov- and engineering from Brooklyn College and der of the day. (USA Today) ing to Old Bethpage, NY, on Long Island. a master’s degree in education from Pace Mr. Mehlman began student teaching University. He served in the US Army, and then MARYLAND special-education classes at the elementary the US Air Force, for a time as a parachutist. school level under the auspices of New York Mr. Pinkett would go on to become an More Broadband University in 1951. His daughter said that administrative supervisor with the NYC According to Acting Federal instead of sitting imposingly behind his desk Department of Education, based in Brooklyn. Communications Commission as others did, he pulled his chair out front. “I loved the man,” said retired principal (FCC) Chairwoman Jessica She said he understood then that “every child Donald Juliano of , NY Rosenworcel, the FCC’s top learns differently.” “He was like a brother.” priority is to expand broadband Mr. Mehlman served in the US Marines Mr. Pinkett married the former Mary Elias (Eli) Joseph Smith connectivity. While improve- during the Korean War. After his discharge Glover, a lifelong resident of Brooklyn, in the ment may be overdue, the pan- in 1954 he returned to the classroom, then late 1950s. Mrs. Pinkett grew up in Crown demic and the need for remote transferred to William Cowper JHS 73 in Heights, attended Brooklyn College, and later, Maspeth, Queens. In 1956, he moved to teach the couple lived in the Clinton Hill neighbor- ber of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. Mr. Smith and hybrid learning have put a later earned a master’s degree from Pace spotlight on the importance of fifth-grade at a school in Bayside, Queens. His hood. As a young woman, Mrs. Pinkett worked for a local labor union. Interested in politics, University in New York City and an additional improving systems. The FCC will daughter said part of the reason he landed the position was because he played piano, and she became the first African-American woman master’s degree in education administration continue its broadband map- was able to run the school’s music program. elected to City Council. She served on the from Stony Brook University, Long Island, NY. ping initiative, and will be able In 1959, Mr. Mehlman returned to Maspeth Council from 1974 until she was term-limited In 2004, Mr. Smith began his career at to further expand its reach with as an assistant principal at William Cowper JHS out in 2001. the NYC Department of Education as a mid- a new $3.2 billion low-income 73. In 1967, he was appointed principal of PS Mr. Pinkett is perhaps best known for the dle-school math teacher. In 2014, he was broadband subsidy and $7 bil- 88 in Ridgewood, a position from which he role he played in helping to bring retired appointed assistant principal at The Math lion in technology funding for retired after a 33-year career in 1984. principals, administrators and supervisors & Science Exploratory School (MS 447) in schools and libraries that was Mr. Mehlman was an avid music lover. from RSSA, the Retired School Supervisors Brooklyn where he was employed at the time included in the latest pandemic “He loved listening to music — classical and & Administrators into the CSA as an official of his death. relief package. (StateScoop) opera,” she said, noting that her mother Retiree Chapter. “This was a terrible tragedy and CSA also played the piano. “They went to the In 2004, Irwin Shanes, a CSA founder who mourns Eli Smith,” said CSA President Mark MISSOURI Metropolitan Opera,” and when they became was then serving as administrator of the CSA Cannizzaro. “Our thoughts and prayers are snowbirds in Delray Beach, FL, they spent 20 Welfare Fund and had long been an advocate with his family, including his wife and young Better Vocabulary winters going to concerts there, she said. She for providing CSA union membership to retir- children, his friends and the entire school Use of interactive, pre-recorded added that he was always starting new hob- ees, agreed to run for president of RSSA, at the community of MS 447.” books has been found to signifi- bies: He was an avid tennis player, then came urging of then CSA President Jill Levy. If his Mr. Smith and his wife, Lindsey, loved to cantly improve at-risk students’ golf, then sailing. slate won, agreed Ms. Levy, she would ask the travel, visiting among other places Japan, vocabularies. A recent study – a She also noted that unions were a huge CSA executive board to establish a new CSA Southeast Asia, Central and South America, and Hawaii. Mr. Smith also enjoyed growing collaboration between University part of his life. “He was a leader in that area — Retiree Chapter. Mr. Pinkett was a long-serv- flowers and vegetables; any and all music, of Missouri School of Health both in the UFT and the CSA.” ing member of the executive board, as well as and cooking and eating diverse ethnic foods. Professions and University of Irwin Shanes, former president of the a secretary, of RSSA, noted Mr. Juliano, who His greatest pleasure, however, was spending South Florida faculty members RSSA (Retired School Supervisors and served as his assistant for a time. time with his family — especially at the fam- – was based on an audio interven- Administrators) and the first president of Many viewed the Pinketts as a Brooklyn- ily lake house in Terre Haute, IN. He was an tion program. It was implemented CSA’s Retiree Chapter, agreed. “Jim was very based power-couple. “Mary Pinkett was one involved in the formation of the CSA, as I was.” of the most wonderful people you’d ever active community member in his Sunset Park in 24 preschools in Missouri and neighborhood in Brooklyn, where he lived Florida and confirmed the posi- Mr. Shanes said that Mr. Mehlman was initially want to meet,” Mr. Shanes said. “She was very opposed to the merger of RSSA and the CSA, dedicated to education and very effective in with his wife and children. tive correlation. There are plans Mr. Smith is survived by his parents, David to expand the study to examine but Mr. Shanes said he was OK with that. “After leading the fight for education and supporting teachers and supervisors in the school system. and MaryAnn Smith; wife, Lindsey Smith; the impact of the audio literacy we merged, he worked to keep the chapter functioning well, and was treasurer of the Bill was a very giving person. Any time you the couple’s two children, Eveline (Evie), 5, intervention as students progress Long Island unit. We were very good friends needed help, he was there to do it.” and Beau, 3; his three siblings, Ben Smith, into early elementary grades. and played bridge together. “ Gary Goldstein, a retired principal of Mark Courtenay Wagner and Michelle Hancock and (K-12 Dive) Mrs. Mehlman preceded her husband in Twain School for the Gifted & Talented and an seven nieces and nephews. — Compiled by death in 2012. Surviving Mr. Mehlman are early staff member of the CSA Retiree Chapter, Christine Altman his daughter, Susan McCarthy; the couple’s credits Mr. Pinkett for helping create the plat- Send obituary notices to CSA News Editor son, Benjamin Mehlman; Edith Coltoff, Mr. form, relevance and profile of CSA, a legacy Chuck Wilbanks at [email protected]. April 2021 CSA NEWS 5

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION NATION Pay Parity: So Little, For So Much Labor requesting an additional $21 million in their vital advocacy and support. Of BY CSA STAFF TENNESSEE the budget to help close the gap. course, this doesn’t guarantee that the Publicly and privately, CSA has “The historic early childhood edu- mayor will do the right thing as bud- Easing Licensing long advocated that the city pay its cation pay parity deal that the Council get negotiations unfold. But CSA will A new bill aimed at simplifying CBO-based early childhood directors negotiated with the administration in do everything in its power to fight for the state’s teacher licensure the same as their DOE-based counter- Fiscal 2020 did not include pay parity early childhood members who work requirements has been introduced. for 3-K and pre-K directors and assistant in CBO-based centers. The mayor will Historically, teachers coming from directors,” the document said. “A $21 soon release his executive budget, an out-of-state faced numerous obsta- New York’s City Council million investment would provide par- updated proposed budget based on cles. The issue was inadvertently ity for all directors and assistant direc- the Council’s response, and then the compounded by COVID as teacher Requested $21 Million tors at non-DOE 3-K and pre-K centers. Council will conduct another round of evaluation scores were suspended This is particularly needed because hearings. Through May and June, the due to the pandemic. With half of its For ECE Directors those working in community-based Council and the Mayor will negotiate teachers projected to leave or retire organizations work longer daily hours, adjustments and reach an agreement by 2027, leaders at the Department get fewer vacation days, and pay 20 per- before July 1. of Education are hopeful that the new law will simplify the path to parts. In the City Council’s response cent of their health care premium when licensure in Tennessee. (Chalkbeat) to the Mayor’s preliminary budget, compared to their DOE counterparts.” For more information on the city’s bud- councilmembers answered the call by CSA thanks the City Council for get process, visit council.nyc.gov/budget. PENNSYLVANIA Funding Dollars National Association Of Elementary School Principals A Pennsylvania lawmaker is seeking to link access to full-time, in-person instruction as a condi- tion for receiving state funding. Opponents argue that delivery of Member Wins NAESP Vice Presidency instruction needs to remain flexi- ble. Schools, they argue, need to BY CSA STAFF for a moment that forces us to look staff developer, and assistant princi- be able to keep students and staff at inequities,” said Dr. Caraballo- pal. In 2001, she became the proud safe without jeopardizing state SA member Liza Caraballo- Suarez. “We should always be look- principal at PS 120, where she has funding. (pennlive.com) Suarez, Ed.D., principal ing for the best strategies, resources, led the school’s transformation to of Magnet School of partnerships, and opportunities to the Magnet School of Multicultural WYOMING Architecture, Engineering, prepare our educational institutions Education through Social Studies and Design—P.S. 120 for the unexpected with a focus on and the Arts, and to its latest Cutting The Arts Cin Brooklyn, New York, has been equity and excellence. As your next incarnation as the Magnet School Elementary art teacher posi- elected to the board of directors NAESP vice president, I will listen to of Architecture, Engineering, and tions are slated to be eliminated of the National Association of the voices of the field. I will use my Design. in a proposed plan in The Cody Elementary School Principals. position as a platform to elevate the She’s been a member of NAESP School District which seeks to Dr. Caraballo-Suarez will begin voices of my colleagues from around for the past six years, and during her integrate art into math, science her one-year term of vice president the country in promoting not only membership, she’s served on vari- and reading. Opponents to the plan have many concerns, on Aug. 1, and will become the equity, access, and social-emotional ous NAESP committees such as the including lack of art training president of the NAESP Board of learning but also the professional NAESP National Task Force on Race and adding art standards to interests of our NAESP members.” and Equity as well as on the NAESP Directors two years later—after she the many concepts and topics has served as both vice president Dr. Caraballo-Suarez has served Board of Directors. Dr. Caraballo- elementary school teachers and president-elect. as an educational leader for over 29 Suarez is also a past president of already teach. Art classes have “As school leaders, we are respon- years in the same neighborhood she the New York City Elementary been shown to increase critical sible to be proactive and not wait grew up in and is a former teacher, Principals Association. thinking skills and engagement. (Codyenterprise.com)

CALIFORNIA Dr. Douglas Zooming Out The Welfare Fund V. Hathaway Some companies are giving workers a break from video con- ferencing. For example, Citigroup created “Zoom-Free Fridays.” A Some Of The Most Frequently Asked Questions study from Wundamail Research indicated that 42 percent of people uestion: My newborn son devel- uestion: I am Medicare-eligible did not contribute during a vid- oped his first earache. When I retiree who has to pay IRMAA every eo-conference call and 73 percent went to get his prescription at the year. In past years, I have been able considered a Zoom meeting as pharmacy, I was told he was not to apply in February. When will you completed work. Many agree that Qcovered and I ended up paying full price for Qpost the form for 2020 reimbursements? video conferencing has become overused and, without specific the medication. Why is he not covered for ANSWER: Your question is probably the objectives, can be unproductive. prescriptions? most common one we get from “mature” (San Diego Union-Tribune) ANSWER: Your question is probably retirees. Reimbursement of Medicare Part B the most common one we get from active, and Medicare Part B IRMAA premiums is a in-service members. When you inform the benefit negotiated between the Municipal NEW YORK Department of Education Health and Welfare Labor Committee (MLC) and New York City, Immigrant Support office through your payroll secretary or and the city government controls release of through HRConnect, they inform the City application forms. For whatever reason the A $2.1 billion fund was established Office of Labor Relations. Staff members city has delayed releasing the 2020 form. The in the state budget to support one- there then add the newborn to your basic latest guidance we have received from the time payments of up to $15,600, to undocumented immigrants who city-provided health coverage. They do not, city is that it will be released by the end of Adding A lost work during the pandemic and unfortunately, inform your welfare fund of April or the beginning of May. Once the city were not eligible for supports such Newborn the newborn. releases the form we will post on our website as unemployment insurance and As a result, we often learn of family status and send an email to all retirees. If you are federal stimulus checks. As many To Basic changes such as newborn children, divorces, not receiving Welfare Fund emails please send as 290,000 undocumented workers remarriages, changes in spouse/domestic part- us an email with your current email address who meet the eligibility require- Health ner employment and benefit changes only and we will update our records to ensure you ments could receive the equivalent when a benefit has been denied. We sent you will receive future messages. of $300 per week for the past year. Coverage the welfare fund enrollment form, which you (New York Times) returned with a copy of your son’s birth cer- Dr. Douglas V. Hathaway is CSA Welfare Fund tificate and we immediately added him to all Administrator. You can email him at dhatha- — Compiled by Christine Altman your welfare fund benefits. [email protected]. 6 CSA NEWS April 2021 RETIREE Chapter CHAIR’S MESSAGE TEAMWORK Gayle Lockett “Can We Talk?” Harnessing The oan Rivers, one of my favorite comedians used to say, “Can we talk?” We are all hoping to have more conversations in person, but for now, in most Power Of Retirees cases, Zoom will have to do. J BY MITRA LUTCHMAN bers, they are willing to lead the way. They At one important virtual meet- believe that there should be no give-backs. ing on March 30, the Retiree here is an old saying in our union: Lobbying is no easy business, but retirees Chapter Executive Board heard a “In-service CSA members are retir- have it down to a science. Just watch them presentation from attorney Steve ees in training.” It’s true that in-ser- work the rooms during legislative visits to Kramer, who gave us a brief over- vice members dream of the day Albany and Washington D.C. They know view of what legal services we are when they can retire comfortably, their way around the buildings and eagerly eligible for in the new legal service Tknowing there’s security at the end of the maneuver to persuade key legislative repre- plan. This is a great time of year road. Some of our seasoned members often sentatives to vote for CSA’s policy requests. to review and update our wills, healthcare proxies and cite this line when discussing why everyone Those lobbying trips will surely happen trusts and you may want to use this service for that. The must get on board to protect our hard-fought again soon. In the meantime, CSA has been Educational/Cultural Committee has scheduled Mr. Kramer benefits. conducting interviews with candidates from to speak on the new plan: Part 1 will be presented on May Although more people are getting inocu- all five boroughs for city council and borough 24 at 1 pm and Part 2 will be presented on June 14 at 1 pm. lated and the goal of achieving herd immu- president. On every district team, many retir- Some unit leaders have also scheduled Mr. Kramer to speak nity seems realistic, COVID-19 has left the ees collaborated with in-service colleagues, more in depth at their upcoming meetings. economy sputtering. Unionists worry that grilling candidates to ensure the best among • • • city, state and national governments may them is recommended for a CSA endorse- attempt to rescind some of our benefits in ment. We owe a special thanks to Dolores t the same meeting, Retiree Chapter Secretary Janice order to balance budgets, hit hard by the “Dee Dee” Goidel, who insisted that a retiree Imundi acknowledged RC Legislative Liaison Mitra question should be included in all screenings. ALutchman, who in turn thanked the retirees who par- One of those was whether prospective city ticipated in the screenings for City Council seats, a majority council candidates, if elected, would follow of which are open. The next political screenings will be for Retirees are the backbone of their peers from the past and support retiree the city comptroller position, a crucial office with responsi- benefits granted in previous contracts as far bility for ensuring our pension funds are invested properly CSA. They have free time, back as Tiers, I, II and III.” Rosalyn Allman and securely. As we know, it is extremely important that to lobby for legislation. They Manning and Ron Imundi happily posed the we do our part in getting the right candidate elected who is question to prospective candidates. capable and sympathetic to labor unions. are willing to lead the way. Also, at the meeting we decided to move forward with • • • celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Retiree Chapter, e all owe our gratitude to the many which is two years away. Hopefully by then we will feel safe quarantine. Business executives have never executive board members who in coming together in person. been happy about our pensions, while many participated on screening teams, We lost another dynamic individual, Jim Mehlman, W employees in the business world feel their including RC President Gayle Lockett and who served on the RC Executive Board for many years and respective employers should totally fund Joe Rosenberg, Executive Board vice chair, who was politically active in the Long Island and Southeast their 401(k) plans and not put the onus on as well as unit leaders Stanley Wilson, Florida units. He will be missed. them to do so. Leonard Sterman, Sharon Thompson, Rosalyn • • • The new cohort of NYCDOE employees Allman Manning and Janice Imundi. A big may not reap the same benefits as those in thanks should go out as well to Richard eanwhile, a special thank you goes to the Queens the past. With austerity measures lurking in Oppenheimer, president of the West Side Regional Unit for donating $1,000 in memory of Bill the background, retirees are fearful of the Democratic Club, whose active voice on labor Pinkett to the CSA Scholarship Fund. M harsh steps our local government might take issues is resoundingly loud. And a hearty I am sure that over the last year we have learned that to reduce budget deficits. In a nutshell, noth- thank you to all retirees who continue to stay we can all adjust to the harsh realities of an epidemic no ing is guaranteed. active and play an integral role in keeping one was prepared for. But we are survivors. As we all receive This is why we regularly call on our army our union strong for both our active and our vaccinations, we will see more schools, restaurants and of retirees to fight vigorously to protect our retired members. other facilities awaken. We should still wear masks and prac- benefits. Retirees are the backbone of our tice precautions as the virus variants are still a deep concern. union. They have free time, and eagerly Mitra Lutchman is the CSA Retiree Chapter When we shop, let’s try to support local mom and pop lobby for legislation. As proud union mem- political liaison. stores. We all know NYC has lost a lot of revenue with the absence of tourism, nightlife and so much else. But we are resilient and look forward to a thriving city once again. In the meantime, until we meet in person, stay well, be safe and remain positive. Welcome New Members

In Unity, Donna Anaman Sheila Durant Frantz Lucius Hilda Robles Gayle Lockett Katherine Atiles Deborah Evans Alexandria Markovich Adis Rodriguez Elzbeita Bazyluk Ron Gill Brian McHugh Harriet Rothstein Benezra, Lillian Ida Goldstone Marilyn Mintzer Cynthia Schwartz Ava Brown Esther Gutwein Denise Morgan Maria Simpson Kevin Caifa Richard Harbus Nancy Oweazim Janet Smith-Hackshaw Blanche Cuevas-Ramos William Hewlett Jr. Rosemarie Pennisi Nancy Tomasuolo Maryann Cullinan Wanda Holt Sharon Perez Ivonne Torres Bruce Davis Jayne Hunnewell James Philemy Toscano Jacqueline Donna De Pleiades Sheila Jackson Xinpei Qu Vancheri Susan Carlo DeGregorio Jacqueline Jarvis Dannette Queen Wang Molly Robert Drach Deon LaVigne-Jones Ann Quinn Yuen-Toy Joyce April 2021 CSA NEWS 7 RC Regional Units

LONG ISLAND CENTRAL NEW JERSEY SUNCOAST FLORIDA MID ATLANTIC We will be holding our virtual spring Our next Zoom meeting will be May Warm Sarasota greetings to every- We would like to thank all who general membership meeting on May 11. 4 at 11am. Look for email from Mark one! As soon as I finalize the dates, I will attended our general meeting via The guest speaker will answer our many Brodsky with the Zoom link. Dr. Douglas be sending emails regarding upcoming Zoom in March In addition to hear- questions about Medicare. Several of our Hathaway will present on the Medicare zoom meetings that you will find most ing from unit Leader, Rajinder Kaur, members attended a virtual presentation Advantage Plan that NYC may offer CSA informative. In the meantime, save the and Executive Board members, we focused on the artistic work of Ruth Asawa. and other union members. Email me date for our long-awaited annual lun- were grateful to receive reports from we want to thank the Nassau County any questions for Doug regarding health cheon on Friday, Jan. 14, 2022. I am so RC Chair Gayle Lockett; Director Museum of Art for providing such an in benefits: [email protected]. Get vac- looking forward to welcoming you all Mark Brodsky; 1st Vice Chair Joseph depth understanding of this talented art- cinated and stay well. back to the new normal! If you know of Rosenberg; and Special VP of the RC, ist’s work. We continue to schedule a num- —Lucille Vecchiarelli any new retirees who have found para- Nancy Russo. A highlight was view- ber of Zoom classes which include chair dise here on the west coast of Florida, ing a Cyber Security Presentation yoga, aerobics, Tai Chi, current events please have them get in touch with me from Sharper Training Solutions, Inc. discussions and health seminars. Many SOUTHEAST FLORIDA - [email protected] or (646) 387- Presenter, Karen Colavolpe, gave an of these will be ongoing throughout the 2652. We are 97 strong! Stay safe and instructive PowerPoint, and gave help- I hope that those who attended spring. For information on dates, times and keep having fun again! ful hints on how to more actively pro- the virtual tour of the Everglades how to participate, please visit our website — Cindy Salamone tect our devices and personal infor- Agricultural Area enjoyed the presenta- at csaliretirees.com. Members will receive mation on the Internet. Part 2 of the tion. Please note that you can sign up emails regarding this information as well. Cyber Security presentation: ‘Shopping for different virtual classes and lectures All classes are free. If you would like to MANHATTAN and Security on the Internet’ will take on the CSA website. We look forward become a member or if you need to update The unit will have a general mem- place at our next Zoom General meet- to getting back to regular activities next your email and contact information, please bership meeting via Zoom on April ing on April 29, at 12 pm. For informa- year and have reserved dates for our email [email protected]. 30 at 1 pm. We’ll send a link about a tion, contact unit leader Rajinder Kaur annual events. In the meantime, get —Karla Landesman Marrero week beforehand. Guest speaker Steven at rkcsa11@gmail or (516) 343-9328. your vaccine and stay safe and healthy. Kramer, from Feldman, Kramer and —Debra Brown — Lois Turetzky Monaco, the law firm offering us legal BROOKLYN services under our new benefit, will We celebrated Women’s History PACIFIC COAST explain the plan. Membership letters CAROLINAS Month with a virtual dining experi- will go out in mid May. We’re collecting Our next Zoom meeting will be on Greetings fellow retirees. Hopefully ence April 17 honoring special women. dues for May 1, 2021 to April 30, 2022. June 2. We’ll join the Arizona unit. everyone is getting or has gotten their Participants shared family histories Due to the pandemic, we did not collect Special Guest Presenter Steven Kramer vaccinations and we will be able to and recipes. On March 5, movie club dues from May 2020 to April 2021. To will speak on legal matters pertinent to resume in-person gatherings soon. Our members had a vibrant discussion about send in dues, make a check for $15. to retirees. Meeting time and Zoom details spring meeting will be held via zoom on the film Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, “Manhattan Unit-CSARC” and mail to: will be emailed when finalized. Thanks May 5. Chris Wilson, an entrepreneur- which featured a wonderful ensemble Stanley Wilson, 400 E. 56 St., 8m, New to Stephanie Thier and the Arizona Unit ial advisor, will be our guest speaker. of actors. We discussed the movie The York NY 10022. for inviting us to join them. Additional details will be sent out by Chicago Six on April 16 and our book — Stanley Wilson —Carol Rainey Mark Brodsky. If you need any additional club met on April 9 and discussed information about our unit, email me at the book, Vanguard. The Book Club BRONX nycurryg@ aol.com. Stay safe! will discuss the book This Is The Fire SOUTHWEST — Yvonne Gardner by CNN Correspondent Don Lemon, on Our virtual spring general member- May 21. At our unit meeting on April On June 2, we hold our next Zoom ship meeting will be held on April 29, 13, our presenter was Steve Kramer, meeting. As you know, we have a new via Zoom. Our guest speaker will be an attorney with Feldman, Kramer & legal services benefit. Our guest speaker, Bronx County District Attorney Darcel GEORGIA Monaco (FKM). He discussed the new Steve Kramer, attorney with the law firm Clark. Further information, including The Georgia Unit will have their CSA legal benefit. Our next unit meet- providing the services, will introduce activities and our final meeting, will be spring Zoom meeting on May 18 at ing is scheduled for June 8. If you have us to the details of the plan. Mark your forthcoming in our spring newsletter. 11:30 am. More information will be questions, please reach out to any mem- calendars for this important meeting. We look forward to seeing everyone at forthcoming. We will email the link the ber of the executive committee. Wishing everyone a healthy, safe spring. the meeting. week of the meeting. — Rosalyn Allman-Manning —Stef Thier —Sharon D. Thompson — Georgia Harrison

VIA ZOOM ‘Woman Of Distinction’ Classes Coming Up Next BY LUCIE ELIO

The CSARC is once again offering the following virtual classes and lectures to members, at no charge, except for the last three events. To register for any of the classes, email [email protected] and list the classes you would like. Please include the class or lecture’s title, your name, your email and phone number.

May 2021 Virtual Program - Time: EST

5/3: American Territories – Evan Weiner – 1:00 5/4: Hamilton & Lyn Manuel Miranda – A & S Zuckerman - 1:00 5/5: Writing & Critique – George Hopkins – 1:00 5/10: Franklin Roosevelt – Howard Ehrlich – 1:00 5/11 How to Buy Technology – Trish Tergesen – 1:00 Last November, NYS Assembly Member visited my grandmother in Maryland and 5/17: 10 Signs of Alzheimer’s – Alzheimer’s Association – 1:00 Harvey Epstein honored Michelle Deal we visited a large department store,” Mrs. Winfield, and two other community activ- Winfield said. “There were signs posted 5/18: Walking Tour of NYC – Matthew Green – 1:00 ists, as Women of Distinction. He cited her on the bathrooms and water fountains: 5/19: Creative Writing – George Hopkins – 1:00 continued volunteer work uplifting the White Only, Colored Only.” In the acces- 5/24: CSA Legal Service Plan – KFM Law Firm – 1:00 communities of his Manhattan district. sories department, Blacks could not try on 5/25: Women of the Supreme Court – James Coll – 1:00 Mrs. Deal Winfield is a retired supervisor a hat before buying it. “Since that incident, of special education, and has long been I have fought against discrimination and 5/26: Bob Hope and World War II –N-YHS – 1:00 a force in community affairs and a pres- volunteered in my community.” ence in CSA. “When I was a youngster, I —CW encouraging students toperform School heldavirtual PoetrySlam, Poetry SlamEvent Work ViaVirtual HS StudentsShare what they need throughout the sum available to all families, who can take dent lunches.Otherproducewillbe by theschool’sfoodservicesforstu- vested vegetables and herbs are used scraps onSaturdays. Someofthehar- allowing residentstodropofftheir composting binstothecommunity, lessons. Theschoolhasopenedits program hascontinuedwithoutdoor ing. Asaresult,theschool’sfarming when studentsweren’tinthebuild- to keepthegardenrunning—even demic, families havevolunteered outdoor space.Throughoutthepan- the mostoutofschool’scoveted Alexine A.Fentyteameduptomake Space DuringCOVID Together InOutdoor Community Works Garden! ASchool’s All HandsInThe contributes tothespace.” everybody hasaccesstothespaceand Jonynas. “There’salotgoingon,and lunch andrecesscoordinatorMegan for usasaschoolcommunity,”said space. “Theoutdoorsisveryimportant be upgradedintoanature-basedplay school hours. Overthesummeritwill open tothecommunityoutsideof deteriorating playgrounds,whichis to securefundingreplaceoneofits worked withPrincipalMaryMcDonald community provides.Parentsalso food distributioneventstheschool mer inadditiontothehotmealsand Manhattan Brooklyn Baruch CollegeCampus High Parents andstaffatPS139 APRIL 2021 Printed onFSCcertifiedpaper (DIST. (DIST. 1-6) (DIST.

13-23,32) Borough - 40 RectorSt.,NY,NY10006 Local 1AFSA,AFL-CIO New YorkStateFederationofSchoolAdministrators Council ofSchoolSupervisors&Administrators,NYC P forum forstudents toreadtheiroriginalpoems and recitethepoeticworksofothers. n BaruchCollege Campus HS,withManhattanClass CompanyTheater,heldanonline With Parents Connecting trust uswiththeirchildreneveryday.” Helen Desario.“Wewantthemtobeable ment issoimportantforus,”saidPrincipal glimpse insidethebuilding.“Parentinvolve- and kindergartenparents,itwastheirfirst classroom smartboard.Formanypreschool a hybridschedulewereprojectedonthe Parents whosechildrenattendschoolunder tions, theschoolputtogetheravirtualevent. happen thisyear,despiteCOVID-19restric- what theirchildrenwerelearning.Tomakeit school leadersforabetterunderstandingof started severalyearsago,aftersomeasked each yearduringanopenhouse,apractice and lesser-knownpoets,toinclude year, studentsstudybothfamous Company Theater.Throughoutthe partnership withManhattanClass grade Englishcurriculum,hostedin event ispartoftheschool’s10th pieces theyandotherswrote.The Queens welcomed intotheirchild’sclassroom Jacqueline KennedyOnassisaretypically arents andguardiansatPS066 Briefs (DIST. 24-30) (DIST. /

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much isolation.” cially nowwhentheyarefacingso a greatoutletforyoungpeople,espe- on camera,”shesaid.“Poetrycanbe blew meawaywiththeirconfidence Alicia Perez Katz. “Some students just “all differentvoices,”saidPrincipal The Schools Emma KateFittes Compiled by Future Scientists eration ofscientists. will inspirethemtojointhe next gen- Maresca saidshehopedtheexperience was openedbyDr.AnthonyFauci. Ms. science fairafewweekslater,which participated inthedistrictwidevirtual Helal andthirdgraderGabriellaCioffi, ing.” Twostudents, first grader Ifrah kids,” Ms. Maresca said. “It was amaz- the parentstobesidebywith their children,shesaid.“Ialwayswant touching toseefamiliesworkingwith event, optingtomakeitvirtual.Itwas navirus get in the way of the annual were determinednottoletthecoro- Principal ElviraMarescaandherteam or guardiansstandingbytheirside. fair, manyofthemhadtheirparents ments duringthisyear’sschoolscience Unionport presentedtheirexperi- [email protected]. Send anemailto EmmaKateFittesat When studentsfromPS36 Have newsaboutyourschool? Bronx and AdditionalMailingOffice Brooklyn, NY11201 US POSTAGEPAIDAT Periodicals (DIST.

7-12)