CSA Endorses Candidates for the Nov. 8 Election. Don’t Forget to Vote! PAGE 11

Oct. 2016 Volume 50, Number 2 American Federation NEWS of School Administrators, COUNCIL OF SCHOOL SUPERVISORS AND ADMINISTRATORS AFL-CIO Local 1 Roundup The First Day of a New School Year

QCSA President Ernest Logan joined Sen. Jesse Hamilton, left, and other city officials during a visit to IS 392 in Brownsville, Brooklyn, on Sept. 8, the day NYC public schools opened.

CLEM RICHARDSON BY CLEM RICHARDSON a New York City mayor visiting a Brownsville school to kick off SA President Ernest Logan the new school year. C spent the first day of After greeting a student school in familiar territory. assembly, the Mayor held a Mr. Logan began his day press conference to discuss two with Mayor Bill de Blasio, First initiatives: his “Single Shepard” Lady Chirlane McCray, Schools program, in which counselors Chancellor Carmen Farina, State stick with elementary school Representatives Jesse Hamilton kids through graduation, and and Latrice Walker, United “Equity and Excellence,” which Federation of Teachers President is intended to improve grad- Michael Mulgrew and other dig- uation and college admission nitaries at IS 392 in Brooklyn’s rates. Brownsville neighborhood. Afterward, Mr. Logan vis- It was a return to the neigh- ited a FedEx school supplies borhood for Mr. Logan, who and backpack giveaway in the grew up in nearby East New schoolyard before heading to York and worked as an Assistant PS/IS 323, four schools housed Principal and Principal in in the building where he Brownsville schools. He said it worked as Assistant Principal. was the first time he can recall Continued on Page 3 Stories Behind the Numbers, and Good Partners Too CHUCK WILBANKS BY CHUCK WILBANKS and the Statue of Liberty. Just Q Solidarity in Midtown Manhattan: More than 350 CSA members marched in the 2016 Labor Day Parade! outside the front entrance is the The stately building at 26 iconic Wall Street bull. Broadway was, back in the early It is, as the cliché goes, prime part of the last century, the real estate. And with its top-tier headquarters of Standard Oil capitalist origins, the building Company and its founder, John is a fitting locale for the Urban A Show of Strength D. Rockefeller. The world’s rich- Assembly School of Business for est man at the time, Rockefeller Young Women, a school which, wanted the building’s curved in addition to the required curric- façade to be a prominent land- ulum, offers young women from mark seen by ships as they around the city – no screening entered and left New York – classes and mentoring to help at Labor Day March Harbor. From the inside, even them prepare for college and per- from the lower floors, there are haps a career in business, espe- views of the harbor, Ellis Island Continued on Page 6 Story and Pictures PAGE 8-9

oocCSA.indd 1 10/6/16 10:20 AM 2 CSA NEWS Oct. 2016

PRESIDENT’S PAGE Now, Let us Praise

Council of School the Unsung Heroes Supervisors & Administrators American Federation of School Administrators, AFL-CIO, Local 1 You are Visionary, Super-Manager and Mayor! By Ernest A. Logan 40 Rector St., NY, NY 10006 Phone: (212) 823-2020 hen I was principal of Back in my day, we Principals weren’t Fax: (212) 962-6130 IS 55 in Ocean Hill, expected to fill all the school’s needs. www.csa-nyc.org Brownsville, I felt so Today, you’re expected to be a talented President at home in the school administrator, in charge of budgets and pro- Ernest A. Logan and on the surround- cesses, hiring and firing, and school safety Executive Vice President Wing streets that I didn’t even think about as well as an inspired instructional leader, Mark Cannizzaro it. Now, when I run into someone from shaping a vision of academic success, First Vice President Randi Herman, Ed.D those days, I finally get it – I was a cen- improving instruction and cultivating lead- Treasurer tral part of their lives. Former students, ership skills in your teachers. It’s no wonder Henry Rubio like Assemblywoman Latrice Walker, tell that the average length of a Principal’s stay Secretary me I helped them find their way forward. in a school is only three to four years. Sandy DiTrapani Whenever I run into Latrice in her role as In NYC, you now have strong benefits Vice Presidents elected official, I explode with pride, just as and good salaries. But you also need more Debra Handler a parent would. meaningful professional development and Lois Lee Now, as we celebrate National Principal’s evaluation systems to encourage you to Chris Ogno Ronald Williams month, I confidently tell you that as school stay longer. Even more, you need auton- Nancy Russo, Retiree Chapter Principals, you’re so much more than the omy over budgets, curriculum, staffing leaders of your schools; you’re the architects and school discipline. But the Fair Student Executive Director Operations Erminia Claudio of people’s futures and you’re the mayors Funding formula can make it impossible General Counsel of your communities. You have a profound to take charge of your budgets. Increasing David Grandwetter effect on everyone who comes in contact with you. Your job interference from DOE can make it harder to meet your stu- is not just a job. dents’ needs. Most salient right now is how little say you Executive Director Field Services You know your teachers, students, families and members Sana Q. Nasser of the community well enough to create customized cultures Field Directors of learning. You’re forever building relationships for the ben- Juanita Bass, Stephen Bennett, efit of everybody – especially if you’re running a community You may not achieve national fame, Mildred Boyce, James Harrigan, school – and you’re often addressing aspects of your students’ Christine Martin, Daisy O’Gorman, but the work you’re doing is noble Mercedes Qualls lives far beyond their education – especially if you’re run- Assistant Field Directors ning a school in a low-income area. You’re adept at bringing and important, and changes lives. Eleanor Andrew, Mauro Bressi, financial, social and artistic resources in from the community. Laverne Burrowes, Kenneth Llinas It is not just another job. Charles Dluzniewski, Nancy Esposito, • • • Aura Gangemi, Ellie Greenberg, Ray Gregory, Robert Jeanette, our departure from your school would deeply affect Kate Leonard, Monica McDonald, teachers, students and parents and reverberate have in the well-intentioned effort to humanize the school Dorothy Morris, Ralph Santiago, throughout the community. Local community-based discipline code. You’re nearly excluded from making experi- Shelli Sklar, Wanda Soto, Y MaryAnn Tucker, George Young organizations, merchants, faith-based organizations and ence-based judgments on disciplinary action. This makes it precincts are all affected by the loss of a Principal and afraid tougher to create an effective learning environment. of what’s to become of the alliances that have been forged. As educational visionary, super-manager, and mayor of Grievance Director Robert J. Reich Often, teachers follow you out the door. Some parents dis- your community, you must sometimes struggle not to fall flat Assistant Directors engage. And students lose all around. This explains why on your face. Carol Atkins, Alex Castillo, Ed. D research shows that you’re the single most important factor “What began to weigh heavily on me,” said New York Robert Colon, Jermaine Garden in your school’s success. City Principal Nadia Lopez, “was that at the same time I was Marlene Lazar, Ph.D, Steve Rosen struggling to get my scholars and their families to Director of Communications believe in themselves, I was part of an educational Clem Richardson system that, despite its best intentions, only rein- Assistant Director of Communications Executive Leadership Institute Corey Bachman forced their failures.” After a while as Principal of Mott Hall Bridges Director of Political Affairs Herman Merritt Academy in Brownsville, Nadia fell ill and was about to quit. Or as she puts it, “I was broken.” Assistant Director of Political Affairs Gabe Gallucci • • • Assistant Director John Khani hen, one of her students answered a blog Special Assistant to President question: “Who’s influenced you the most Gary Goldstein T in your life?” He answered, “My Principal.” CSA Conference Chair And he went on: “When we get in trouble, she Pierre Lehmuller doesn’t suspend us. She calls us to her office and CSA Historian explains to us how society was built down around Manfred Korman us. And she tells us that each time somebody fails CSA Retiree Chapter out of school, a new jail cell gets built. And one Gayle Lockett, Chair Mark Brodsky, Director time she made every student stand up, one at a time, and she told each one of us that we matter.” His answer went viral. Overnight, the support CSA NEWS that Nadia could never get before flooded into Mott Editor Chuck Wilbanks Hall and the wider world appreciated her work even Design Consultant Michele Pacheco when the central office sometimes didn’t. Production Assistant Christine Altman No student ever propelled me to national prominence when I was a Principal and it might not ever happen to you, either. But you know that there are students in your classrooms and CSA News (004-532) is published corridors who feel similarly about you. I know monthly except July and August for $35 Nadia Lopez pretty well and understand she per year per member by CSA, 40 Rector St., NY, NY 10006. Periodical postage would be the first to say that she is the same as paid at Manhattan, NY, and additional CLEM RICHARDSON most of you. Even when you’re at your wit’s end, mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send Q President Logan addresses coaches at Founder’s Hall in CSA Headquarters for you should know that the job you’re all doing is address changes to CSA News, 40 the Executive Leadership Institute’s Sept. 13 ‘Start of School’ meeting. Rector St., NY, NY 10006. important and noble and life-changing. It is not just another job.

oocCSA.indd 2 9/30/16 4:32 PM Oct. 2016 CSA NEWS 3 Roundup Visit Our First Day of a New School Year Facebook Page!

CSA’s Facebook page is where we post the latest news and stories about our union and its members, as well as track and post stories about educational and political issues affecting us. Members can comment and discuss posts with each other. Join the discussion at https://www.facebook.com/fol- lowcsa/. To make sure CSA posts appear on your own Facebook news feed, be sure to “like” the page. Then choose the “see first” option in the “liked” menu. If you have story ideas, comments or questions about our Facebook page, CSA’s website or the CSA CLEM RICHARDSON CHUCK WILBANKS News, please contact Chuck QLeft: Single Shepherd Coordinator Rashinda Sealey, Principal Ingrid Joseph, Chancellor Carmen Fariña, CSA President Ernest Logan, D-23 Superintendent Wilbanks at [email protected], Miatheresa Pate, and UFT President Michael Mulgrew visited IS 392, Brooklyn. Right: Mayor Bill de Blasio gets in on selfie action in the hallways. or Corey Bachman at corey@csa- nyc.org. CSA President Begins In Familiar Territory Continued from Page 1 Logan proceeded upstairs to Myrie and Doreen Gordon. brought him up to speed on AMAPS Schedule There he watched Assistant see Mott Hall Bridges Academy “There is a lot coming at you, so several school issues. Principals Shawna N. Myles Principal Nadia Lopez, whose call me if you need help,” Logan “The first day of school is The Assoc. of Mathematics and Yolanda Lawrence-Bennett book, “The Bridge to Brilliance: said. “Someone can help you like game day,” Jusino said. “If Assistant Principals will have the conduct pre-kindergarten ori- How one Principal in a Tough with any problem you have.” you can’t handle game day, you following fall meetings: Oct. 13, entations before meeting with Community is Inspiring the His next stop was at the can’t handle running a school.” 12 – 3 pm, Garguilo’s Restaurant, Principal Linda L. Harris. World” has been reviewed by Grand Street Campus in Logan also met with High 2911 W. 15 St., Brooklyn, NY “The champ is back!” yelled every New York City newspaper. Williamsburg, which houses School for Enterprise, Business 11224; Nov. 3, 12 – 3 pm, Verdi’s School Safety Agent Jeff Boyce, Mr. Logan then proceeded four schools. Mr. Logan met and Technology Principal Restaurant, 149-58 Cross Island who has worked in the build- to PS/IS 165, where he met with with Progress High School for Holgar Carillo, and with School Pkwy., Whitestone, NY 11357; ing for 35 years. After visiting the school’s first year leadership Professional Careers Principal for Legal Studies Principal Dec. 15, 12 – 3 pm, Etcetera, with parent Noreen James and team; Principal Jason Rivers William Jusino and Assistant Rosemary Vega. Etcetera Restaurant, 352 W. School Aide Rose Sicard, Mr. and Assistant Principals Marica Principal Tommy Torres, who 44 St., NY, NY 10036. Email questions to Rhonda Pekow at [email protected]. Day Care Crisp, Polished on Opening Day BY CHUCK WILBANKS they pursue a strong high school performance Facility a and college admission. Port Richmond students Upcoming: Staten Island’s Port Richmond High School spend five weeks on the Wagner campus during opened the school year with new paint, immac- the summer being mentored by college students Association Survivor ulately polished floors, and a clean, all-around there, and the office at Port Richmond serves nautical crispness, like a ship about to be as an anchor where the students can check in of Assistant BY COREY BACHMAN inspected by top brass. In fact, top city leaders any time. Some Port Richmond students – five were in full force at the school on Sept. 8 as it this year – have gone on to study at Wagner, but Principals CSA First Vice President Randi opened its doors to students. Mayor Bill de many others attend colleges around the state and Conference Herman visited the directors of Blasio, Chancellor Carmen Farina, Deputy Mayor country. the Blanche Community Progress Richard Buery and others toured the school with “If you believe in them, they’ll believe in The Annual AAP Education Day Care Center in Far Rockaway Principal Timothy Gannon, members of his themselves,” said Wagner College President Dr. Conference, “Enhancing on Sept. 8. After briefing the staff and CSA Executive Vice President Mark Richard Guarasci. Instruction to Improve Student members on the current status Cannizzaro. After the Mayor and Chancellor concluded Achievement” will be on Oct. of their contract negotiations, The mayor’s and chancellor’s visit was part what became a long press conference and left 15, from 8:30 am until 3 pm at Dr. Herman toured the grounds of a five-borough tour of city schools on open- the school, Mr. Cannizzaro paid a quick visit to the LaGuardia Marriott, 102-05 and heard about the center’s near ing day. Port Richmond High is one of the city’s the Principal’s office. “When I was a Principal, I Ditmars Blvd., Queens. destruction from Hurricane Sandy 130 Community Schools, offering its students never slept the night before opening day,” Mr. Workshop topics include in 2012. a bevy of support services, from health care to Cannizzaro said to Mr. Gannon. “I was supposed Data, PreK, Danielson/Advance, The first floor of the build- after school activities to intense college prepa- to sleep?” Mr. Gannon shot back. Galaxy, CSA Welfare, and ENL ing had been flooded by waist- ration. Mayor de Blasio and Chancellor Farina Strategies. The keynote speaker high water. “Toys and furniture both offered strong praise for the leadership of is Marc Brown, author, illustra- were still floating in the water Principal Gannon. “It’s important to honor a tor, and creative producer of the when I got here. It was an ugly Principal who did not accept the status quo,” she EMMY award-winning Arthur sight,” said Director Florence said. “I admire feisty Principals.” PBS television series. Williams. Directors of the Blanche At Port Richmond, they stopped by the AAP will also be honoring Community Progress Day Care school’s Student Health and Wellness Center, Dr. Randi Herman, CSA’s First Center soon got to work. Members with its well-appointed examination rooms. Vice President and assistant of the community donated new “This is what a Community School really principals who are celebrat- appliances, indoor and outdoor means,” Mayor de Blasio said in discussing the ing their fifth, tenth, fifteenth, play equipment and toys. mission of supporting all facets of a student’s life, twentieth and twenty-fifth anni- “Through a coordinated from their physical and emotional health to their versaries as APs. effort, the Far Rockaway com- academic lives. “Here at Port Richmond, they’re For more information, please munity and local officials have doing it the right way.” contact Bob Kingsley at aapexec- now upgraded the center with They also visited the office of Wagner CHUCK WILBANKS [email protected]. Do not con- the help of recovery assistance,” College’s Port Richmond Partnership Leadership QStaten Island’s Port Richmond High School’s AP Lisa tact Pierre Lehmuller, as a previ- said Dr. Herman. “It’s truly a Academy, a program in which Wagner students Pollari, Principal Timothy Gannon and CSA Executive ous announcement suggested. beautiful facility.” and faculty support Port Richmond students as Vice President Mark Cannizzaro

oocCSA.indd 3 10/6/16 10:20 AM 4 CSA NEWS Oct. 2016

Mark From Rector Street Cannizzaro Frustrations Rise as Common Sense Disappears s I have begun tions by disgruntled individuals, sometimes drag on my yearly visits to for years and render school leaders less effective. schools at all lev- The ironically labeled, “Fair Breakfast in the classroom has been unilaterally els and in all dis- Student Funding” formula does declared the most appropriate option for all elemen- tricts, I would like tary schools across New York City even though many Ato thank you for your hospi- not work and puts so many school leaders and their leadership teams can make tality and compliment you on compelling arguments why it is not the best option a very smooth and productive students at a disadvantage. for their school. start to the school year. Thus Principal discretion has been severely compro- far, I have encountered only mised, and in some cases eliminated, as it relates dedicated and talented school students and their families. We regularly propose to student discipline and intervention decisions. leaders eager to show off their common-sense solutions to persistent problems, yet Apparently the DOE doesn’t feel that Principals are buildings, students, staff, and to often the DOE appears unwilling to help you help capable of making these decisions in the best interest special programs. I have been your students. Let me reiterate, more for the benefit of everyone involved. Perhaps most impressed with the of others than for you, some of the problems that • • • welcoming physical environ- school leaders discuss most frequently: the only ments and the friendly yet Principals are mired in unnecessary and dupli- ost quality review and PPO visits offer little very professional demeanor cative paperwork complicated by inefficient and if any practical or actionable feedback. This thing that of your safety agents, school incompatible computer systems. As a result, they are Mresults in annual performance reviews that do secretaries, school aides and expected to reconcile unmanageable data discrepan- little to support and improve leadership practice. took a other support staff. Your cies; Academic and/or financial audits that take days teachers have graciously Ironically labeled “Fair Student Funding,” the of your time are returned to you citing “insufficient bigger hit invited me into their class- arbitrary school funding formula does not work and documentation,” yet fail to suggest what type of doc- rooms and their planning puts students at many schools at an extreme disad- umentation is needed. than and rapport with students vantage. The appeal process is a farce and the DOE I know these are just a few of the many issues that is evident. Your students refuses, perhaps for more political than practical rea- need to be addressed and I look forward to discussing budgets have been eager to engage sons, to address it appropriately; your successes and challenges with you as I visit your was trust. and polite when introducing During last year’s annual webcast, the Chancellor schools, attend district and borough CSA meetings themselves. I have witnessed cited a “good news budget.” What the good news and otherwise correspond with you. The good news many of them holding doors for others and offering to presenters failed to note, however, was that DOE is that I do believe that the DOE and City Hall share assist teachers traveling with their arms full. Like most had eliminated funding for sixth-period teaching in our desire to improve education for all children. We great leaders, you have accepted the compliments hum- shortage areas. The DOE had funded those classes for just need to find a way to convince them to take a bly and, without fail, have given the credit to the “great many years, and bureaucrats didn’t even conduct an more common sense approach. team” that supports you. analysis of which schools could and could not afford In the meantime, thank you for your passion, You’ve also shared some frustrations. I assure the hit. Perhaps the only thing that took a bigger hit dedication and expertise. It keeps the system afloat! you that we will continue to advocate strongly for a than school budgets was trust. more efficient system that allows you to best serve Investigations, many the result of baseless allega- Mark Cannizzaro is Executive Vice President of CSA. In This High School, There’s No Time Like the Present

BY CHUCK WILBANKS

This was not your typical ribbon cutting ceremony. A New York City High School Principal, a high-rank- ing DOE official and several officials from an array of non- profit organizations walked into a softly lighted room. Each switched off their cellphones and found seats on a circle of cushions, where they focused on their breath and allowed their minds to quiet. The session lasted for several tranquil minutes, under the gentle direction of a teacher trained in mindfulness meditation. As the lights went back up, the mood in the room was palpably calmer, with many smiling faces. The group class was an unexpectedly welcome part of the official opening for the new John Adams High School meditation room, located in what was once a basement drama center in the Queens Community School. For sev- eral years, John Adams cycled through more than one dire list of troubled schools, only to emerge with a clean bill of PHOTOS BY CHIUCK WILBANKS n health in June. While that’s not totally the result of medi- Left: Dr. Scott Silverman discusses mindfulness after a short class for visitors in John Adams High School’s new mediation tiation classes, an emphasis on quiet reflection certainly room. Right: Principal Daniel Scanlon, Global Kids Site Director Justine Ouano, David Lynch Foundation’s Adam Friedman, hasn’t hurt. Community Schools Director Chris Caruso, Dr. Silverman, and Global Kids Executive Director Evie Hantzopoulos. The program and room is the brainchild of Assistant Principal Dr. Scott Silverman, a longtime practitioner of sure how effective it was going to be,” he said. “That was afterschool programs. meditation himself. “I see a lot of stress, whether it’s from my mindset.” Now, Mr. Scanlon said, he has seen the proof Evie Hantzopoulos, the group’s executive director, said family issues, problems with friends, or problems at school,” of how effective meditation has been in helping students Global Kids picked up the $19,000 tab to renovate the he said. “This is to help people reflect. The average teenage stay calm and centered. room, which now sports bamboo floors, forest-colored wall brain is very reactive, and meditation can help spread out In addition to Dr. Silverman, two teachers – Brendan paint, gentle lighting, soft music and several egg chairs that the time between an event and a reaction so they can more Walsh and Meg Clare – also provide mindfulness instruc- together provide a near cocoon of serene quiet. Other part- accurately size up situations. It’s OK to feel angry but it’s tion. Both teach PE and health classes and currently con- ners include the David Lynch Foundation, which supports how we act on those feelings that is important.” duct six mindfulness courses. Mr. Walsh, who led the the teaching of transcendental meditation, the local Home Dr. Silverman said the room will have several purposes, meditation, described how it helped him in his own life. Depot, which donated lamps, and Col. Michael Licata, who including as an alternative, calming place for restorative jus- “This is a special gift that we can share with students,” he heads the school’s ROTC program. He lent a portable air tice meetings and group counseling sessions. He thanked said. “Mindfulness doesn’t solve our problems, but it helps conditioner. District Superintendent Michael Alcoff and Principal Dan control our relationships to our problems. Feelings are not “Community schools are about partnerships and that’s Scanlon for helping make the project a reality. facts.” what we are seeing today,” said Chris Caruso, executive Principal Scanlon noted that when Dr. Silverman Global Kids, the Community-Based organization and director of the DOE’s Office of Community Schools. “Kids, approached him with the idea of a dedicated space for non-profit partner in the project, has six full-time and to thrive, need academic help, but they also need emo- meditation, he jumped on board immediately. But in his two part-time staff members in two offices at the school tional help. We know how important it is to pay attention own mindful way, Scanlan said, he realized that inside he providing, among other programs, mental health services, to ourselves and to how we affect others. That’s what this was skeptical. “Even though I was saying ‘Go for it,’ I wasn’t academic enrichment, parent and attendance outreach and room is for.”

AA p4 p7.indd 4 10/6/16 10:38 AM Oct. 2016 CSA NEWS 5 Commitment to Culture, Art in Schools Passage of the NY State Museum Education Act Would Benefit Students BY MARIA SMITH education in low-income com- and the ability to make outside munities. The icing on the cake? excursions. At PS 146 in East If you’re a certain age, you Monies could be used for pupil Harlem, students have visited remember when classroom trips transport to museums or for staff sites including the Bronx Zoo to museums and historic sites to schools. and the American Museum of were de riguer in public school. “Bringing culture back into Natural History. “Field trips give Academics were supplemented our public schools is a major pas- our students opportunities to with field trips to places like the sion of mine,” said Mr. Titone. have authentic learning expe- Hayden Planetarium or Historic “We need to take arts in educa- riences,” said Principal Mona Richmond Town. Then, edu- tion as seriously as we take math. Silfen. “Passage of this bill would cational philosophies changed, The arts are an investment in help us to provide additional STEM became the priority and the socialization and growth of ways to make learning fun and budget cuts hit cultural and arts a well-rounded individual.” Mr. more interesting.” funding. In the past several years, Titone, who grew up on Staten Cultural institutions sup- however, there has been a push Island, credits his family’s love port passage of the Museum to revisit cultural activities with of opera and the arts with his Education Act also. “Anything an emphasis on STEAM educa- interest in these areas. He cur- that gets more kids into muse- tion: Science Technology English rently lives near Snug Harbor, ums is a great idea,” said Carol Art and Math. the borough’s cultural center. Willis, Founder and Director of One local elected official, His goal is to ensure that all state the Skyscraper Museum in Lower Assemblyman Matthew Titone public schools have grade-level Manhattan. She explained that (D-SI), is spearheading the move- appropriate arts and education due to lack of funds, there have ment to make museums part of programs. “If a school has a pro- been instances when school school programming again. He gram at all, what’s being offered visits were cancelled, usually plans to reintroduce the Museum in the sixth grade is the same because the bus is too expensive. Education Act in Albany when PHOTOS BY MARIA SMITH as what they get in the eighth She also says that the outing the legislature convenes in QAssemblyman Matthew Titone (D-SI) read to children this past grade. It’s unimaginative and it’s itself is part of the educational January. Although the bill was summer at Staten Island’s Goodhue Center for youths. unacceptable,” said Mr. Titone. experience: “I think the physical introduced during last year’s ses- The bill has strong backers sion, financial details weren’t in relying instead on appropriations museum education grant pro- including New York State Regent place making it difficult to reach that would be sorted out later. gram providing state aid to Roger Tilles, a philanthropist a consensus, said Mr. Titone. “We are not starting from museums, cultural organizations involved in funding Long ‘If a school has an He is optimistic it will pass in scratch but building upon a and venues like zoos and aquari- Island’s Tilles Center For The arts program at the upcoming session, although strong foundation,” said Mr. ums. Additionally, the bill would Performing Arts. Tilles credits his even if it does, how much money Titone. If passed, the MEA fund the creation of education third grade teacher for exposing all, what’s being would be attached remains a would direct the NY State programs for elementary and him to music, which became a bit murky. The legislation itself Commissioner of Education secondary school students, and lifelong love. offered in the sixth doesn’t have a dollar amount, to establish and implement a those participating in continuing “I brought up my kids in pub- lic schools. I extended my love grade is the same of the arts to my children,” said as what they get in HANDS-ON LEARNING Tilles. “We visited all the great museums of the world. I want eighth grade. It’s every child in this state to visit cultural institutions. This bill unimaginative and ‘Gadgets Get Tossed Aside’ provides cultural opportunities for kids no matter what their eco- it’s unacceptable.’ nomic circumstances are.” BY MARIA SMITH Funding of the arts is often first on the chopping block visit – going to a new place – is a rom a life-size Mastodon to a statue from because it’s not on any standard- learning supplement. When you F the 12th dynasty of ancient Egypt, the new ized test, said Tilles: “We’ve cre- leave us, you see NY Harbor, the Staten Island Museum offers students the ated an educational system based new World Trade Center, and opportunity to have fun learning. Diane Matyas, on tests, how does that make for historic Pier A. That in itself is Vice President, Exhibitions and Programs, says, a well-rounded human being?” worthy of a meaningful discus- “We emphasize historical aspects of events and For Frank Giordano, Principal sion with students.” objects, but push it further. We want student of MS 443, the New Voices Staten Island Museum visitors to leave here knowing a story and share School of Academic Creative President and CEO Cheryl that story with others.” In a new location on the Arts, in Park Slope, Brooklyn, Adolph said she would like to see grounds of historic Snug Harbor, the new space says field trips are as important to the bill pass so more off-Island boasts 10,000 square feet. his students as an Amazon Echo students can visit the museum at The original focus of the museum was local is to a techie. A noted perform- its new location in Snug Harbor. animal and plant specimens: There are 35,000 QChildren view artifacts at the Staten Island ing arts middle school, MS 443 “We had 17,000 students last examples of cicadas, more than 10,000 mollusk Museum, where the focus is on blending the arts offers six areas of study: dance, year – mainly from Staten shells, fossils and examples of lost bird species. with science and history. instrumental, vocal, graphic Island,” said Ms. Adolph. “Extra “Now, we’re very focused on blending the arts arts, drama and visual arts. At a dollars to provide transportation with science and history.” Nearly 17,000 stu- facility boasts gardens, ponds, a greenhouse and minimum, students spend four- so that students from other bor- dents visited the museum since it opened in the Chinese Scholars’ Garden. “The kids abso- and-a-half hours each week “in oughs and the state could visit us Sept. 2015. “We are user-friendly, not intimi- lutely love it,” said Ms. Matyas. “All the electronic studio.” “I’ve got kids studying would be great.” dating. That’s important for someone who has gadgets get tossed aside.” three-dimensional sculpture,” Ms. Adolph said the museum never been to a museum.” Museum lessons meet And curiosity has no age limits. Last spring, said Giordano. “You bet we’re would be able to expand school Common Core ELA and Math requirements, NYS seniors from nearby Curtis High School, learned going to visit MOMA.” But, visits. “We have a wonderful Science and Social Studies standards and NYC about the borough’s role during the Civil War. after losing Title 1 Funding due collection of artifacts and items Scope and Sequence. They discovered the Curtis in their school name to neighborhood gentrification, that we can pack up and go,” she “Land of the Lenapes,” is a history lesson was for famed orator, Putnam Magazine Editor Giordano has had to reprioritize. said. “Extra money gives us a lot adapted for students in Pre-K through 12th and Staten Island abolitionist George William “As a Title 1 school, we had more flexibility to travel to differ- grade. Lectures are supplemented with a unique Curtis. “They soaked it up,” said Ms. Matyas. a paid-for partnership with the ent schools.” collection of artifacts, many of which students “Never underestimate the ability of kids to learn Guggenheim Museum,” he said. State Assemblyman Titone can touch. Science courses include “Animal and that they want to learn.” “Now, I have to find that money is optimistic the MEA will pass Detective,” which shows students in grades For more information about the Staten Island from the school budget. This in the 2017 legislature. “I think three to eight how to conduct skeletal investiga- Museum visit www.StatenIsland.org or for informa- bill would alleviate some of the we’ve reached the point that tions. “We have a lively curriculum with a lot of tion regarding school trips, email Christine Szeluga, financial burden we’re under.” everyone agrees you must have hands-on learning,” said Szeluga. Different geolog- Manager of Education at cszeluga@statenislandmu- But even if a school does get arts in education.” Mr. Titone ical periods can be observed on the site and the seum.org. Title 1 Funds, it’s still a balanc- said. “Budget feast or famine, arts ing act between in-school needs are here to stay.”

oocCSA.indd 5 10/6/16 10:21 AM 6 CSA NEWS Oct. 2016 Stories Behind the Numbers: Urban Assembly School of Business for Women Continued from Page 1 academic experience.” schools attended by kids cially finance. The school is led by found- The partners she from families in tough eco- ing Principal Patricia Minaya. has brought in at Urban nomic straits whose lives are Ms. Minaya, who taught Spanish and Assembly School of Business made harder by rising rents computer sciences for six years before for Young Women reads like and a tough economy. Many becoming an AP and then a Principal, a who’s who of the business families have picked up and opened the school 12 years ago after a pro- and financial elite. In addi- moved, often to other parts of posal she wrote with the Urban Assembly’s tion to founding partner the country where family ties help convinced the DOE that the idea was Urban Assembly, there is the may beckon or living expenses a strong one. She credits the partnership Moody’s Foundation, which are cheaper. and support of Urban Assembly founder supports educational proj- On the discharge list cover- and CEO Richard Kahan with helping to ects focusing on mathemat- ing the 2015-2016 school year, make the school a reality. ics, economics and finance. several of Minaya’s families “He’s an amazing person and super sup- Moody’s created and funded left for Florida, Pennsylvania, portive of this school,” she said. “The idea the school’s business library, Virginia and North Carolina. for this school was a joint venture.” which includes a space Others left for other places in But it’s clear that her own life expe- where students attend work- New York State. riences also deeply influenced Minaya’s shops and business seminars. “People look at the num- vision of just how education combined The Women’s Bond Club, a bers, but not what’s behind with exposure to workaday life can network of women execu- the numbers,” Minaya said. change a young person’s path. Born tives in the bond industry, “Every number has a story. in New York City to parents from the supports the school’s college Gentrification is impacting Dominican Republic, Minaya returned prep program, including our communities.” to Santo Domingo as a child, where her annual trips to colleges and Despite these worries, mother owned a bookstore, and where members who mentor stu- Minaya is bullish on her she attended the fourth through the ninth dents. Goldman Sachs tech- CHUCK WILBANKS school’s future. grades. The family then returned to the nology experts have been QLeft: Assistant Principal Amy Gladstone with Principal Patricia Minaya “This can be a powerful Inwood neighborhood, and Minaya went teaching key skills in the school in this area,” she said. to Brandeis High School, where she says “Girls Who Code” program. “It’s an amazing opportunity teachers and a guidance counselor inspired Private Equity investment commute. And many are not well pre- for young women, with a real her and gave her confidence. That special firm Castle Harlan Inc. exposes students to pared. “The majority of our students come recipe for success to keep them engaged. It attention, plus help from an IBM-run men- the process of writing a business plan. After with big deficiencies in reading, writing worked for me and it has worked for a lot toring program, helped Minaya gain admis- a competition, winners present their plans and numeracy,” Minaya said. of our kids.” sion to SUNY Binghamton. While there, to partners in the firm’s board room. Although the school has received some she had an internship at Smith Barney, Prominent people in the arts have high marks in some areas, such as collab- where she learned about the back-end sys- also lent their help. The Tribeca Film oration and trust among teachers and rig- tems that make stock trades possible. Festival’s education unit sent artists in orous literacy instruction, it has also taken to teach how to write and make movies. some hits. For example, in the Framework Last year, students made a film based on for Great Schools report for 2016, the Real recipe for success: writings by youth who are incarcerated in school garnered a safety ranking slightly ‘Keep them engaged!’ Rikers Island. The short film was ultimately below the citywide average.The graduation shown to the students at the Rikers Island rate is also a bit under the citywide average. school. But one marker is particularly troublesome: But even before she attended college “Our kids have studied issues such as The school lost about a hundred students and had such work experiences, Minaya pregnancy during incarceration,” Minaya last year, no small number for a student credits the time throughout high school said, adding that even though students body that now stands at 335. when she worked the retail side of a furni- spend a lot of time preparing for the Minaya cautions that it’s important to ture and accessories company called Plastic Regents exams teachers still try to work look beyond raw numbers. She notes, for Works, founded by Gary Strutin, a former topics they are passionate about into the example, that out of the 100 students who Bell Labs physicist, with honing her busi- curriculum. “We’re trying to both help left, a quarter of them moved out of the ness acumen. them find careers in business and finance city. “I learned a lot of math from him,” she and also realize that with power comes “You can’t count the 25 kids who had said. “But more importantly, having that responsibility, that we can all play a con- to leave because their parents couldn’t get a job taught me how important it is for a structive role,” she said. job or afford to live here anymore and had school to have partnerships that offer jobs, Because the school takes any and all to move,” she said. extracurricular activities and internships to students, many come from the farthest It’s a story repeated by Principals QDetail from a letter written by Qu Ting kids in high school. It really enhanced my reaches of the city, making for a tough around the city, many of whom lead Zheng, class valedictorian.

Teachers’ Lauded Author, Educator to Keynote CSA Conference BY CHUCK WILBANKS nal articles, book chapters, and technical Howard’s address. Topics will include: Retirement reports. He has published several bestselling The Mindfulness Movement in Education; Tyrone C. Howard, professor in books, among them, Why Race & Culture Inspiring Students to Touch the Sky; Strategies System the Graduate School of Education and Matters in Schools and Black Male(d): Peril and to Improve High School Graduation Rates; Information Studies’ at UCLA, will be the Promise in the Education of African American keynote speaker for CSA’s Conference on Males. His new book Expanding College Access CSA’s 49th Educational Sept. 2016 Unit Values Nov. 5. Dr. Howard for Urban Youth looks at ways that schools wowed delegates and colleges can create post-secondary pos- Leadership Conference Diversified Equity at the 2015 AFSA sibilities for youth of color. Fund: 80.958 Where: NY Hilton Midtown, Triennial Convention Dr. Howard is also the Director and 1335 6th Ave., NY, NY, 10019 Bond Fund: 17.286 in New Orleans and Founder of the Black Male Institute at When: Sat., Nov. 5, 8:30 am to 3 pm many CSA attendees UCLA, which is an interdisciplinary cadre International Equity have asked that he of scholars, practitioners, community Fund: 9.587 address our confer- members, and policymakers dedicated to Managing Complex Change; You Can’t Do It Inflation Protection ence, as well. improving the educational experiences and Alone: Building Teacher Leadership Capacity; Fund: 10.318 Tyrone C. Howard Dr. Howard’s life chances of African-American males. In Teach Like TED: 10 Rules to Increase Focus, research examines 2016, Dr. Howard was listed by Education Concentration and Success in Your School. Socially Responsive culture, race, teaching Week as one of the 50 most influential Visit the CSA website (there is a banner Equity Fund: 14.968 and learning. His work has focused on the scholars in the nation on educational pol- on the front page for our conference) to experiences of African-American and other icy, practice and reform. find a preliminary program, ticket reserva- www.trsnyc.org males of color in K-12 schools. Dr. Howard There will be 22 workshops offered tion forms and other important informa- has published over 75 peer reviewed jour- during two sessions that will bracket Dr. tion.

oocCSA.indd 6 10/6/16 10:21 AM Oct. 2016 CSA NEWS 7

Bob Grievance Corner Reich Believe It – It’s True! (But Hopefully Not For Long) rowing up, I use to bers who were in excess wanted to know where they member requested the reasons in writing, which is hear “believe it or would be working when schools reopened. After all, mandated under the collective bargaining agreement. not’ whenever some- they wanted to get ready for their new assignments. No written reasons were provided and we were forced one was describing However, the Department did not assign in June, nor to file a grievance. Gan unusual event. In deal- did it give them their assignments in July. Rather, our 9. A union representative complained to a ing with the Department members learned of their assignments the day before Superintendent that our contract was not being fol- of Education, “believe it or they were due to report. Nothing like giving profes- lowed. We had not filed a grievance. Rather than tell not” now appears inappro- sionals the opportunity to prepare! the representative to file a grievance as CSA’s contract priate. “Unbelievable” best 4. A Principal received MOLP scores of 58/60 allows, the Superintendent reported the matter to describes some of the actions (highly effective) and 55/60 (effective) in consecutive the Office of Special Investigation. Wouldn’t it make those who run the school years. A couple of disgruntled parents complained, sense to tell the complainant to exercise the rights of system have taken recently. and the Superintendent – without basis – lowered the the collective bargaining agreement rather than file The following are some of principal’s rating the following year to ineffective. complaints? the bizarre actions DOE 10. A Principal contacted the DOE attorney has taken that we are now • • • assigned to represent her school and asked for CSA will addressing for our members: 5. On several occasions this summer, a superinten- advice. The attorney immediately reported the 1. An interim-acting dent approached members and offered them inter- Principal to an investigative office. This story is a advocate, Principal for more than one im-acting Principal positions. These members were good reminder to all of you that DOE attorneys year was told in June that told by the superintendent that they were “cleared” work for the Chancellor. You do not have attorney grieve if she would not be selected to begin work and they actually did begin work- client privilege. necessary, for the Principal position. ing. In some cases, these individuals were publicly 11. Finally, the collective bargaining agreement In August she was told the announced as Principal to the school communities. requires that both the member and the Union be and even person the Superintendent Then, days later, they were called by the superinten- advised of investigation closures. Unfortunately, the wanted to place in the dent and were apologetically told that the offer had Office of Equal Opportunities continues to disregard litigate position was not cleared, so to be wihdrawn. this clause. The Union has filed a grievance to remedy the DOE would leave her 6. A member was given an extension to sign by this. on your in the school as an interim his Superintendent. The reason? An open investi- • • • acting Principal. You would gation. When the member told the Superintendent behalf. think they were leaving her he had no knowledge of any such investigation, the e are going to continue keeping up the pressure in the school and selecting Superintendent confessed that he had no idea who W to make sure the Department of Education her through the C-30 process but no, she was told was conducting the probe. treats CSA members as professionals, to make sure she would remain in the school until DOE found a 7. A Principal was chosen to be a Master Principal Superintendents fulfill their roles correctly and to Principal they prefer. and was assigned to a school. After accepting the ensure that the collective bargaining agreement is 2. An Assistant Principal was chosen to be a position, the member was told he would not be paid not circumvented. This is your Union, and we will 12-month AP, but the DOE paid the member instead as a Master Principal. continue to advocate, grieve if needed and even liti- as a 10-month AP. The member was told the pay 8. A Superintendent informed a member that it gate if we must on your behalf! would be corrected, with arrears, in Sept. As of the was her intention to extend the member’s probation. Sept. 16 payroll, that still has not happened. When the member asked why, the member was Questions or concerns? Contact me via email at bob@ 3. At the end of the last school year, several mem- told, “performance.” After signing the extension, the csa-nyc.org.

FOR US SERVICEMEN AND WOMEN Technology New CSA Veterans Unit Launched! New CSA Holds Inaugural Meeting Mobile Users App Now you can stay in touch with CSA on your cell- BY CHUCK WILBANKS phone! The CSA mobile app uses the School Messenger program to put the latest information, important CSA is starting a veterans notifications and CSA website, Twitter and Facebook unit, and on Sept. 9, a group of updates on your phone! them met at our union’s head- Here’s how you get it: Search for “Council of School quarters to plan how the unit Supervisors and Administrators” in the App Store will operate and what issues it on your mobile device. Once located, click “Get” to will tackle. the right of The thinking behind the the CSA app idea was simple, explained CSA to begin the President Ernest Logan: “Unions download. don’t always realize the assets Please note that veterans can bring to what that once we do,” he told the members. downloaded “It doesn’t matter what your the phone app politics are. When politicians CHUCK WILBANKS must be con- n realize you are veterans, they sit The first members of CSA’s new Veterans Unit with CSA officers. From left: nected to inter- up straight and listen.” Gerald Galderisi, Doreen Seaman, Giovannie Sosa, Richard Morell, Randi net or Wifi Herman, Wayne Benjamin, Charles Hernández and his service dog Valor, He noted that we have never to access the Ernest Logan, Noah Angeles, Mark Brodsky and Mark Cannizzaro. had a veterans council while we CSA website, have had every other type of Facebook or caucus under the sun. “We’re the city government’s Veteran’s be meeting regularly as they Twitter pages. not just about education; we Advisory Board. Mr. Hernandez plot the unit’s trajectory. Once the app talk about healthcare and other noted that there are 200,000 In addition to lobbying on is open on important issues. How do we veterans in New York City, and behalf of veterans’ issues such your device, come together as a group to be said the top two pressing issues as mental health and homeless- swipe right good advocates?” facing vets right now in the city ness, other members discussed and left to Charles Hernandez, disabled are homelessness and failure to school-based efforts in which access the dif- from his service in Iraq and at address mental health issues. veterans could teach and inspire n A screenshot of CSA’s new app. ferent sections. Ground Zero, is a CSA Retiree The founding group of citizenship through curriculum Chapter member who serves on active and retired members will and extracurricular events.

AA p4 p7.indd 7 10/6/16 10:38 AM 8 CSA NEWS Oct. 2016 On the March for Labor, C

PHOTOS BY CHUCK WILBANKS QRight: CSA President Ernest Logan joined members carrying the union banner. Left: CSA Executive Vice President Mark Cannizzaro with CSA members and retirees on the steps of St. Patrick’s Cathedral before the parade began.

lovely restaurant on Lexington Ave. (The Club funds CSA’s political activities. For details on joining, see our union’s website.) Mr. Logan thanked the boisterous members for an impressive turnout, one indicative of the passion and dedication they have shown in their careers. The parade has been on CSA’s calendar since the union was created in 1962. The parade itself dates back to 1882, when the New York Central Labor Union, one of the first organized umbrella unions in the country, organized a gathering of work- ers on a scale never attempted before. QThe Tottenville High marching band made Fifth Avenue their own At least 10,000 people marched uptown from Union Square on a hot and dry September morning. Although previous demonstra- tions by the emerging labor movement were marred BY BRIAN LAPLACA by violence, that march was a peaceful gathering. For the first 50 years, the annual parade in ith heart-thumping music provided by New York coincided with the continued effort for Staten Island’s Tottenville High School national recognition of collective bargaining rights Marching Band, hundreds of CSA mem- and other issues, including the need for a mini- W bers gathered to show their union’s col- mum wage, protective child labor laws, a 40-hour ors at the Sept. 10 annual Labor Day Parade. Some work week and suitable working conditions. As rode in our float, some on a double decker bus, decades passed, the labor movement grew and and many, many others, as the band led the way, then declined. By the 1980s, feeling attacked by marched up Fifth Ave. in Manhattan, waving to government and business, parade organizers put large crowds of onlookers and supporters. a new focus on maintaining the rights that the The parade followed a morning Labor Mass at the movement had worked so hard to achieve. Due to packed St. Patrick’s Cathedral. CSA Executive Vice an increasingly diverse workforce, equality in the President Mark Cannizzaro, Executive Director or workplace was at the forefront of concerns as the Operations Erminia Claudio and many other union parade marched up Fifth Avenue. leaders and members attended. Cardinal Timothy Dolan addressed the crowd, and recounted the deep ••• respect Pope Francis, on his recent visit to New York, he parade was rescheduled in 1996 to the first showed to labor. “I pointed out to him some of the T Saturday after Labor Day. “It’s an event where workers who had renovated the cathedral,” Cardinal CSA members, both retired and active, and their Dolan said. “He didn’t wave. He bowed.” families come together,” said CSA Historian Manny Maxwell and Principal Steve Dorcely and his children Grayce, After the parade concluded, CSA President Korman. “Our participation shows the public how Q Ernest Logan hosted a large reception for members unions matter a great deal even in a time where Montgomery. of CSA’s President’s Club at the Arlington Club, a union membership trends are declining.”

oocCSA.indd 8 9/30/16 4:32 PM Oct. 2016 CSA NEWS 9

NATION Education CSA Shows Strength NEW YORK: Water Tests A new law requires schools to test drinking water for lead contam- Since 1962, When the Union Was Formed, NYC ination, which can cause neuro- logical impairments. The results must be reported to parents and School Leaders Have Been Part of the Parade local officials. Elementary schools must complete testing by the end of September; middle and high schools by the end of October. New York will be the first state in the country to complete statewide inspections. (edweek.org)

CONNECTICUT: Funding Overhaul Having declared the school fund- ing system unconstitutional, a Connecticut judge ordered its overhaul within six months. The judge arrived at the decision, in part, by recognizing the gap in test scores between students in wealthy vs. poor towns. The state must revamp the formula used for dis- tributing aid, develop a statewide high school graduation standard, ensure that eighth graders have the skills to move to high school and replace the teacher evaluation and compensation system. (browns- QMembers fortified themselves with food and refreshments before mak- villeherald.com) ing their way up Fifth Ave. MICHIGAN:

ANNE SILVERSTEIN QCSA members Marie Guillaume, Video Journalism Ramon Gonzalez, Moses Ojeda and Giovannie Sosa. Students from Royal Oak High School, and 20 other schools across the country, were selected to produce PBS segments on America’s national parks. Part of PBS NewsHour’s STEM Student Reporting Lab program, the stu- dents were prepped and sent to Isle Royale, one of the country’s most remote national parks. The selected students expressed interest in video journalism as a career. (mlive.com)

PENNSYLVANIA: Onboarding Reportedly more schools are consid- ering how they communicate with new teachers from the beginning, with many districts and charters offering induction programs that QChildren of union members picked up the spirit of AP Eva Proctor and retiree Manny Korman were undaunted by the heat. Q last up to a week. These orienta- unity early. tions typically offer everything from motivational speeches to classroom management and ped- agogy. Research shows 9 out of 10 new teachers will receive some kind of targeted help. While there is no data on how helpful these programs are, most agree it’s beneficial for teachers to have a unified mission. (newsworks.org)

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA: Foreign Language The U.S. has, in large part, moved away from foreign language educa- tion to focus on math and reading. Research shows that U.S. students are behind Europeans in second language acquisition. In 2014-15, a Michigan State survey showed an increase of 11% in companies’ Waterproofers and Allied Workers were interest in hiring foreign language QThe United Union of Roofers, majors. Though some school dis-

ell and among the plethora of organizations which saw members join together in tricts ofter dual language immer- sion programs, they are often on a QMsgr. Kevin Sullivan of Catholic Charities of New support of organized labor. small scale. (educationdive.com) York, with retiree Juanita Johnson. — COMPILED BY CHRISTINE ALTMAN

oocCSA.indd 9 9/30/16 4:32 PM 10 CSA NEWS Oct. 2016 Starring Your Colleagues, Subway Posters Are Back! BY CHUCK WILBANKS the Bronx – are CSA’s newest connecting the phrase to a per- underground stars. sonal message, also in white, Six CSA members – “Being in this ad is very from the member about their Steve Dorcely, Principal of important to me,” Torres said. school or duties. Brooklyn’s Urban Academy “I want children who come The posters were created High, Assistant Principal Aileen from where I came from to by Mario Aguilar, with pho- Dulski of Staten Island’s PS aspire to reach their dreams. tographs by Rachel Elkind 42, Principal Florence Gorsky If I can motivate one child to Photography. of Staten Island’s PS 37, become a school educator, I More than 2,000 posters are Caroline Letendre, Educational have accomplished my job.” displayed on the city’s trains. Administrator, the Division The posters, which are up They are also hung in CSA’s of Special Instruction and for 30 days, sport a message Founder’s Hall at 40 Rector Student Services in Manhattan, within a message. Within the Street. Yessenia Rosario, Director of larger caption, “Running A Make sure you see all of the Nicholas Cardell Day Care School Is Not Just Another them, and congratulate your Center in the Bronx, and Luis Job,” the words “No Other colleagues for representing Torres, Principal of PS 55, Job” appear in white lettering, your union!

Herman Legislative Agenda Merritt Endorsements: Who Our Union Supports utumn, to many of District 9 Todd Kaminsky – D,WFP District 24 David Weprin D us, is the beginning District 10 James Sanders, Jr. – D,WFP District 25 Nily Rozic D,WFP of the election sea- District 11 Tony Avella – D District 26 Edward Braunstein – D,WFP Ason. As the evening District 12 Michael Gianaris – D,WFP District 29 Alicia Hyndman – D,WFP winds blow, we know that it District 13 Jose Peralta – D,WFP District 30 Brian Barnwell – D is time to exercise the right District 14 Leroy Comrie – D,WFP District 31 Michele Titus – D,WFP and responsibility to vote. District 15 Joseph Addabbo – D,WFP District 32 Vivian Cook – D Every even-numbered year, District 16 Toby Ann Stavisky – D,WFP District 33 Clyde Venal – D there is an election for the District 18 Martin Malave Dilan – D District 34 Michael DenDekker – D entire House of Representatives District 19 Roxanne Persaud – D,WFP District 37 Catherine Nolan – D,WFP as well as the entire New York District 20 Jesse Hamiton – D,WFP District 38 Michael Miller – D,C State Senate and Assembly. District 21 Kevin Parker – D,WFP District 39 Francisco Moya – D,WFP These elected officials have District 22 Martin Golden – R,C District 40 Ron Kim – D,WFP only two-year terms and they District 23 Diane Savino – D District 41 Helene Weinstein – D,WFP must work closely with the District 24 Andrew Lanza – R,C District 42 Rodneyse Bichotte – D We look at voters to insure continued District 25 Velmanette Montgomery – D,WFP District 43 Diana Richardson – D,WFP support. Now is the time District 26 Daniel Squadron – D,WFP District 44 Robert C. Carroll – D,WFP candidate elected officials and insurgent District 27 Brad M. Hoylman – D,WFP District 46 Pamela Harris – D candidates ask for endorse- District 28 Liz Krueger – D,WFP District 47 William Colton – D,WFP voting ments — public declarations District 30 Bill Perkins – D,WFP District 49 Peter Abbate – D,WFP records in of support for a particular District 31 Marisol Alcantara – D District 51 Felix Ortiz – D candidate. Endorsements can District 33 J. Gustavo Rivera – D,WFP District 52 JoAnn Simon – D,WFP regards to range from merely expressing District 34 Jeffrey Klein – D District 53 Maritza Davila – D,WFP support for the candidate to District 35 Andrea Stewart-Cousins – D,WFP District 54 Erik Dilan – D working making a contribution to a District 36 Jamaal Bailey – D District 55 Latrice Walker – D,WFP candidate’s campaign commit- District 37 George Latimer – D,WFP District 56 Tremaine Wright – D,WFP people. tee. Endorsements can also District 38 David Carlucci – D District 57 Walter Mosley – D,WFP mean encouraging members District 39 Christopher W. Eachus – D,WFP District 58 N. Nick Perry – D,WFP of an organization to vote by District 41 Terry W. Gipson – D,WFP District 59 Jaime Williams – D,WFP making phone calls or partici- District 46 Sara Niccoli – D,WFP District 60 Charles Barron – D pating in “Labor Walks” with the candidate. District 60 Amber Small – D,WFP District 64 Nicole Malliotakis – R,C How can a candidate obtain support from CSA? As District 63 Timothy Kennedy – D,WFP District 65 Yuh-Line Niou – D,WFP a member of the AFL-CIO, we look at how that organi- District 67 Linda Rosenthal – D,WFP zation rates a candidate’s voting record as it pertains to US House of Representatives District 68 Robert Rodriguez – D working people. We listen to feedback from members District 69 Danny O’Donnell – D NY 1 Anna Throne-Holst – D regarding particular candidates and we examine the District 70 Inez Dickens – D NY 3 Tom Suozzi – D relationship that we have with the elected official. District 71 Herman Farrell – D NY 5 Gregory Meeks – D Because of who we are, the kind of work that we do District 72 Carmen DeLa Rosa – D NY 6 Grace Meng – D and the extremely high voter turnout of our members, District 73 Daniel Quart – D,WFP NY 7 Nydia Velazquez – D CSA endorsement carries some weight. We ask that you District 74 Brian Kavanagh – D,WFP NY 8 Hakeem Jeffries – D strongly consider the candidates who we endorse and District 76 Rebecca Seawright – D,WFP NY 9 Yvette Clarke – D more importantly, keep us informed on your interac- District 77 Latoya Joyner – D,WFP NY 10 Jerrold Nadler – D tion with elected officials, both positive and negative. District 78 Jose Rivera – D,WFP NY 11 Daniel Donovan – R With this in mind, the following candidates have District 79 Michael Blake – D,WFP NY 12 Carolyn Maloney – D been endorsed by CSA for the November 8th elections: District 82 Michael Benedetto – D NY 13 Adriano Espaillat – D District 83 Carl Heastie – D NY 14 Joseph Crowley – D President of the United States District 85 Marcos Crespo – D NY 18 Sean Patrick Maloney – D Hillary R. Clinton (D) District 86 Victor Pichardo – D,WFP NY 19 Zephyr Teachout – D District 87 Luis Sepulveda – D NY 20 Paul Tonko – D United States Senator District 88 Amy Paulin – D,WFP NY 25 Louise Slaughter – D Charles Schumer (D) District 90 Shelley Mayer – D,WFP NJ 12 Bonnie Watson Coleman – D District 97 Ellen Jaffee – D,WFP NY State Senate District 99 James G. Skoufis – D,WFP District 2 John J.Flanagan – R,C NY State Assembly District 131 Brian Kolb – R,C District 6 Ryan E. Cronin – D,WFP District 22 Michaelle Solages D,WFP District 136 Joseph Morelle – D District 7 Adam Haber – D,WFP District 23 Stacey G. Pheffer -Amato D,WFP District 141 Crystal Peoples-Stokes – D,WFP

oocCSA.indd 10 10/6/16 10:21 AM Oct. 2016 CSA NEWS 11

GARY GOLDSTEIN Honors for Travel Desk Principals Explorations and Vacations Panama Canal Cruise pp single; $3,969 pp triple. Add $280 pp for insur- Nationwide Jan. 4 - 19 2017 ance. BY CLEM RICHARDSON Depart Los Angeles Jan. 4 and arrive Fort Lauderdale Jan. 19, 2017. Visit Puerto Vallarta, Discover Tuscany his is National Principals’ Month, set aside to Huatulco, San Juan Del Sur, Puntarenas, full canal April 10-18, 2017 (Spring Break) Thonor the people who lead our nation’s schools. transit, Cartagena, and Aruba. Secure deepest Depart N.Y. on April 10, with hotel stay in The National Association of Secondary Principals discount rates now with deposit. Rates begin at Montecatini Terme April 11-18. See Michelangelo’s (NASSP), The National Association of Elementary School $1,899 pp. Add taxes and insurance. David. Observe Ponte Del Diavolo of Borgo a Principals (NAESP), and the American Federation of Mozzano. Visit Florence, cradle of Italian renais- School Administrators (AFSA) have planned a host of Winter Sailaway sance. Marvel at the leaning Tower of Pisa, explore events marking the observance, including webinars on Feb. 19-26, 2017 mystical Siena, wine tasting in the Chianti region. school leadership. On Feb. 19, 2017 board the elegant Celebrity RATES: (until Oct. 11, 2016) $2,999-dbl; $3,199 CSA President Ernest Logan will journey to Silhouette and sail to Coco Cay, Grand Cayman, single; $2,969 triple. Includes 7 breakfasts, 3 din- Washington, DC, on Oct. 13 to take part in an AFSA Falmouth, Jamaica and Cozumel for 7 days enjoy- ners. sponsored National Principals’ Month Capitol Hill. ing the Celebrity experience! Mr. Logan will be a panelist discussing the topic RATES: Begin at $913.42. Currently if you North to Alaska “Revolutionizing School Leadership Under (Every book window or higher you may select a free perk July 10-21, 2017 Student Succeeds Act) ESSA,” which will focus on how from beverage package, onboard credits, unlimited Elegance abounds on the Seabourn Sojourn! Join educators can leverage the new federal law to improve internet, free gratuities. Air and insurance is extra. us as we sail on one of the most deluxe cruise ships their schools. around (all suites and yacht-like atmosphere with NASSP, NAESP, and AFSA will also sponsor sev- Winter Caribbean Sail 458 passengers). Depart July 21 from Vancouver eral national events, including naming the National March 11 - 19, 2017 and sail for 11 nights to Seymour Narrows, Queen Principal of the Year, recognizing three techno-savvy Charlotte Sound, Ketchikan, Misty Fjords, Behm Set sail from Ft. Lauderdale, FL on the Digital Principals of the Year, and naming new members Narrows, Wrangel, the Summer Straits, Decision Caribbean Princess to the ABC Islands of the from every state to the National Distinguished Principals Passage, Sitka, Tracy Arm, Endicot, Seduction Caribbean (Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao) for a Program. memorable 8 day voyage. Also on Oct. 13, CSA will be on hand when the RATES: (subject to change) are currently: New York City Council issues a proclamation in council chambers recognizing National Principals Inside,$1044 pp; Window, $1274 pp; Balcony, CSA Travel Desk wants to know about your $1344 pp; MiniSuite, $1644 pp. Currently rates Month and CSA. include $100 pp reduced deposit, onboard credits, dream destinations. Simply write me an New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo, in con- port charges and taxes. Singles, triple, quads, air email at [email protected] and tell junction with the School Administrators Association of and insurance are available. me your top five areas. Hopefully we can New York State (SAANYS), the New York State Federation fulfill your dream! of School Administrators (NYSFSA) and CSA issued a Spring Break proclamation marking the observance of New York State April 8 - 18, 2017 Principals Month. The proclamation notes Principals’ responsibilities, Cruise on the Norwegian Cruise Line Gem sail- Point, Haines, Juneau, Inian Islands, Icy Strait the important roles they play in a community and their ing from the port of New York April 8 and visiting Point to arrive in Seward (Anchorage) for your commitment and dedication which “provides a mobiliz- San Juan, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and Tortola, return journey home. Or extend your optional ing force behind school success and improvement. returning to Manhattan on April 18. visit to Denali and Fairbanks by rail/and/or bus. “The celebration of Principals’ Month honors CSA has secured block space for this premium RATES: begin at $7,575.61 pp for the cruise elementary school, middle school and high school date, when schools are closed for Spring Break. portion. Ask about accompanying perks! Principals and recognizes the important roles principals Currently there is a promo to include FREE play in ensuring that every child has access to a high GRATUITIES for the first two in each stateroom. Sail the Caribbean quality education.” No need to board an airplane! Pull up to the pier Jan. 3-13, 2018 Several organizations will be hosting month-long and sail! Rates begin at $1,295.56 pp double for as Sail on the fabulous Oceania Riviera. Depart observances on social media platforms including long as our allotment lasts! Call for more details. Jan. 8 from Miami and sail to: Nassau, San Juan, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. St. Maarten, Antigua, St. Lucia, and St. Barts. This For a list, Google “National Principals’ Week.” European Elbe Cruise is a luxury product at deeply reduced rates while May 13 - 29, 2017 it lasts! Rates include onboard credit, free internet This is our latest and most exciting Viking and prepaid gratuities! Deposit locks in perks; WORTHY CAUSE River Cruise adventure yet! Depart US on May 13 available for a limited time only. to arrive Berlin, May 14. Begin a journey to Berlin, RATES: begin at $2,899 pp. Wittenberg, Meissen, Dresden, Bad Schandau, Prague, Krakow and Warsaw. Cruise portion is Spring Break 2018 CSA Supports Rett on the elegant Viking Beyla from May 16-21. March 31- April 7, 2018 Excluding air, the program is all-inclusive, land Anthem of the Seas, Royal Caribbean, will sail Syndrome Research and tour, using deluxe properties throughout. Past from the port of New York to Orlando, Nassau and passenger loyalty discount, special CSA group rate, Every year, CSA singles out a worthy cause and lends Coco Bay. and reduced air is available. its wholehearted support. In previous years, for example, RATES: begin at $1,039.19 pp dbl. RATES: begin at $6,274 pp double. Ask for we have helped the Alzheimers Foundation and the March Viking special promo air and additional discounts. of Dimes. This year, the union is encouraging members to Aloha! support the Rett Syndrome Research Trust (RSRT). The boat accommodates 100 passengers and space July 13-22, 2017 will go rapidly! Go to Viking River Cruises for RSRT was launched in 2008 to drive research toward Based upon your bucket list we will journey to more details. a cure for Rett Syndrome and related disorders. Rett the Pacific jewel Hawaii on an inclusive land/air Syndrome is a neurological affliction caused by random tour using deluxe hotels. mutations in a gene called MECP2. Diagnosed almost Shades of Ireland Depart from NY (ask about other gateways) on Oct. 9-21, 2017 exclusively in girls, symptoms typically appear in toddler- July 13 to Honolulu, July 13-16: Kauai – July 16-19; hood. Many children with Rett are unable to speak, walk Put on the green as we fly to the magical Maui – July 19-22; Return home – July 22 Emerald Isle. Experience the Ring of Kerry, visit or use their hands, and they are plagued with breathing Program includes: RT air – NY, deluxe hotels, and eating problems, seizures, anxiety, and other mal- a modern dairy farm, gaze at the Cliffs of Moher, transfers, sightseeing, 4 dinners, 9 breakfasts and Kiss the Blarney Stone, explore Belfast and a fare- adies. More than 350,000 girls and women around the intra island air. world suffer from the disorder. well castle dinner. Price includes round-trip air Call or email ([email protected]) for sin- from NY, hotels, motor coach sightseeing, trans- The RSRT is funding research to conquer RETT, which gle, triple, and travel protection. it believes science has a good chance of accomplishing. fers and 17 meals. We have 32 seats and they will RATES: Total cost $5,192 pp dbl. disappear fast! Email [email protected] for a Since 2008, RSRT has awarded $36 million to scientific projects. The group says that 96 percent of every dollar brochure. For more information, contact Gary Goldstein at RATES: $3,999 pp, dbl, including air; $4,499 donated to RSRT goes directly to research. On Nov. 7, [email protected] with any questions. RSRT is having a fundraiser at the restaurant Capitale, 130 Bowery, at 6:30 pm. For more information go to RSRT’s website, http://reverserett.org.

oocCSA.indd 11 9/30/16 4:32 PM 12 CSA NEWS Oct. 2016

Beach Gardens, FL, died Aug. 20. Ms. Natelli NATION In Memoriam was a New York City educator for 36 years, first as a teacher, then Assistant Principal, then a Principal. She retired in 1991 as Labor Principal of PS 121, an elementary school in the Bronx. After her retirement she served as a teacher and mentor of Principals through NEW YORK: the Bank Street College of Education for LIU Lockout approximately four years. After she moved to Florida, she travelled widely and served Brooklyn campus faculty of Long as the president of the Brandeis Women’s Island University (LIU) were barred Club. Her son, Anthony Natelli, noted from campus and had their health that his mother donated her body to the insurance cut off in response to University of Miami, so that medical stu- their union’s rejection of the admin- dents could further their understanding of istration’s latest contract offer. The the human body. In addition to her son, she Brooklyn faculty are seeking equal is survived by her daughter-in-law Nancy pay to faculty on the Long Island campus. Students, whose classes, and her granddaughter Mia. in some cases, are being taught by QSALVATORE RAINONE, 74, of less qualified individuals, are join- Mamaroneck, NY, died July 10. He was the Susan Dermer Mel Farberman Zelig Sokoll ing the picket line. Other unions spouse of CSA member Isabella Rainone, have been supportive of the facul- who retired in 2005 as AP of JFK High ty’s fight. (amny.com) QJOEL BELLER, 89, of Long Beach, NY, women who didn’t have access to other School, the Bronx. Born in Naples, Mr. died on August 6. After 40 years working at nursing schools. She graduated in 1943. Rainone came to the United States in 1952 OHIO: the Board of Education, Mr. Beller retired in Ms. Broaddus subsequently earned her at 10 years old as an orphan from war-torn Performance Pay 1991 as AP of Biology and Physical Science undergraduate and graduate degrees from Italy. He was adopted by his aunt and uncle at Francis Lewis High School, Queens. He Hunter College. While at Clara Barton, Ms. and grew up in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Mr. In a departure from recent prac- was a WW II Navy veteran and was dis- Broaddus administered a health career and Rainone was drafted in 1964 during the tice, the Cleveland school district charged as a pharmacist’s mate, third class, pre-professional nursing program. She Vietnam War, serving stateside with the US is moving away from teacher in August 1946. He re-enlisted during the was a member of many professional orga- Army. After his discharge, he used the GI Bill raises based on annual evalua- Korean War, but was not called to service. nizations including the American Nurses to obtain a degree in business and market- tions. Replacing the former point ing from Long Island University, Brooklyn system, all but teachers deemed Mr. Beller received his BS in Biology from Association and the Healthcare Association Campus. He obtained his MBA from “ineffective” would receive salary City College in 1950 and an MS in Education of New York. She is survived by her godson, Fordham University. Mr. Rainone worked increases every two years. The in 1952. He was a high school biology teach- Norward Harris. for a variety of private sector companies, new plan calls for “developing” er and won multiple teacher achievement QSUSAN DERMER, 68, of Marietta, GA, died teachers to have improvement awards from the National Science Teachers August 8. A former AP at John F. Kennedy including Digital Equipment, a vendor of plans and gives teachers a $4,000 Association. At Francis Lewis, he developed High School, the Bronx, she retired in 2003. computer systems, which went bankrupt bonus for an “accomplished” rat- a program for teaching medical laboratory Born in Milan, Italy, to parents who sur- in the 1990s. Mr. Rainone then became a ing, though it does not provide a techniques to students with disabilities. vived the Holocaust, Ms. Dermer spent the staff analyst with the NYC Department of permanent salary increase at that After retiring, Mr. Beller served as an adjunct first years of her life in a displaced persons Citywide Administrative Services, (DCAS), level. (www.cleveland.com) professor at Hunter College and LaGuardia camp. She and her family came to the and worked there for 17 years before retir- Community College, teaching education and United States in the early 1950s and resided ing in 2012. An avid reader, he and his wife CALIFORNIA: supervising student teachers. He was also in the Bronx. A graduate of Hunter College, loved traveling, especially in Europe. In Threat Of Strike the author of several science texts. Mr. Beller Mrs. Dermer obtained her master’s degree addition to his wife, he is survived by three was an avid fisherman, going out on almost from Iona College. She was a social studies children and six grandchildren. Yuba City Teachers Association, daily fishing expeditions in his boat Reel teacher at George Washington High School, QSHIRLEY SAFRAN, 85, of Manhattan, NY, representing hundreds of teachers Time. He is survived by his wife Betty; one Manhattan, before becoming a program died on May 3. She was the spouse of CSA from 17 schools, is poised to strike. daughter, four stepchildren, nine grandchil- chair. Mrs. Dermer enjoyed sewing, knitting member Richard Safran, a member of the The union wants a 13% raise for its dren; and one great-grandchild. and beading. She was a member of the Manhattan Chapter of the CSA retirees. A members. According to the union BARBARA BENNETT, 73, of Ormond CSA’s Atlanta Retiree Chapter. She was very lifelong New Yorker, she graduated from president, administrators are paid Q Hunter College with a degree in Speech above the state average; the union Beach, FL, died August 2. She retired in active in Common Threads, an organization and Theater and a Master’s in English. Mrs. is asking for the average for teach- 2003 as a District 75 Special Education for children of Holocaust survivors located ers. The union’s wage demand is Supervisor working throughout the five in Marietta. Mrs. Dermer also was a member Safran worked as an actress and singer as a $1,500 less than last year’s state boroughs. She had previously worked for of Etz Chaim Temple. She remained fluent young woman: she performed in the famous average. (kcra.com) the New York State Office of Vocational and in Yiddish throughout her life. She is sur- Bricktop’s in Rome, owned by Café Society Educational Services for Individuals with vived by her husband, Stuart, a daughter, doyenne Ada “Bricktop” Smith, and did OREGON: Disabilities, (VESID). Mrs. Bennet enrolled Tovah, and a son, Joshua. movie voiceovers. She then became a high school English teacher at Art and Design Tax Boost in college later in life, according to her hus- QMEL FARBERMAN, 67, of Hewlett, NY, band, Albert. “She decided to get her degree died July 30. He retired in 2006 as an EA High School, Brooklyn. Mrs. Safran was an The teachers’ union is taking a tax when she was 43 years old and she loved Level III. He had been Chairman of English active member and strike veteran of the initiative to the voters this Fall in every minute of it,” he said. Mrs. Bennett at Benjamin Cardoza High School, Queens. UFT. She also was a member of the Jane an effort to make the wealthy pay graduated from Empire State College and Mr. Farberman was a graduate of Brooklyn Austen Society of North America. In addi- their share. In recent years, state received her master’s in education from College and earned a master’s degree from tion to her husband, she is survived by two tax revenue has fallen due to the Long Island University. She obtained her SUNY/Albany. He taught English for many daughters and two grandchildren. closing of hundreds of paper and professional diploma in administration and years at Lincoln High School, Brooklyn. Mr. QZELIG SOKOLL, 88, of Staten Island, NY, timber mills. As a result, school dis- supervision from Fordham University. Mrs. Farberman mentored teachers as part of died July 15. Mr. Sokoll retired in 1990 as tricts have suffered huge budget Bennet was an avid bridge player and loved the Superintendent’s Office of the Board of AP, IS 24, Staten Island. He graduated from cuts. The initiative being brought drawing with colored pencils. In addition to Education and taught as an adjunct profes- Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, forth by the union is for a 2.5% tax her husband, she is survived by two daugh- sor at both Brooklyn and Touro Colleges. TX, where he majored in music education. on corporate gross sales over $25 ters and five grandchildren. He received his master’s degree from the million. (edweek.org) He was a volunteer for the Multiple QLEO BENARDO, 88, of Riverdale, NY, died Sclerosis Society and the Friedberg Jewish New England Conservatory of Music. After July 31. He retired in 1987 as the Director Community Center in Oceanside, NY. He is graduate school, Mr. Sokoll owned a music PENNSYLVANIA: of Foreign Languages for the NYC Board of survived by his wife, Hollis, a son, Bradley studio in Jersey City, NJ, before beginning Lock Out Education. Mr. Benardo, a graduate of City and a daughter, Shari. his educational career on Staten Island. He College, spoke or had a working knowledge LILLIAN GUMEROVE was the borough’s supervisor of music and Nearly 1,000 workers were locked Q , 87, of the Bronx, of seven languages. “He was a linguist and in 1978 conducted the Staten Island Boro- out by Dominion, one of the largest died Aug. 15. Ms. Gumerove retired in 1988 loved learning new languages,” said his son, Wide Chorus at Carnegie Hall. After retiring, distributors of energy in the U.S. as a reading and English teacher at William Sanford. Mr. Benardo began his career as a Mr. Sokoll worked part-time as a music Workers have been without a con- Howard Taft High School. She is survived by consultant with Theater Rehabilitation for tract since April. The union that rep- Spanish teacher in 1947. He served in the Robert Gumerove, her husband of 57 years, Youth, a local organization for people with resents the workers says Dominion Korean War and resumed his teaching duties who was an AP of Administration at JHS 120 special needs. He had a long musical career is attempting to reduce employee upon discharge. He also was Principal of JHS in the Bronx before retiring in 1987 as an health and retirement benefits. The 202, Queens. A widower, Mr. Benardo is sur- AP of Social Studies at The High School of as a pianist, arranger, and club date musi- company maintains the union did vived by another son, Leonard. Fashion Industries. Ms. Gumerove and her cian. He was predeceased by his first wife, Iris, and a son. Mr. Sokoll is survived by his not allow its members to vote on a QVIVIAN BROADDUS, 95, died June 4. The husband loved to travel and were lifelong tentative agreement. It is uncertain former AP of Clara Barton HS, Brooklyn, she ticket holders to the Metropolitan Museum current wife, Eleanor, two daughters and how or when this lockout may be retired in 1983. Ms. Broaddus was a trained of Art and the Metropolitan Opera. She is four grandchildren. resolved. (prospect.org) nurse. She was born in Washington, DC and also survived by her children Sharon and — COMPILED BY moved to Harlem attending The Lincoln Ira and her twin grandsons Matthew and Send obituary notices to Associate CHRISTINE ALTMAN School of Nursing. The school was found- Hunter. CSA News Editor Chuck Wilbanks at ed in 1898 to educate African-American QMERYL NATELLI, 80, who lived in Palm [email protected].

oocCSA.indd 12 9/30/16 4:32 PM Oct. 2016 CSA NEWS 13

The Welfare Fund Dr. Douglas V. Hathaway Prescription Drug Provisions Raise Welfare Fund Costs

resident Obama signed The Welfare Fund Trustees and Administrator are the Affordable Care Prescription drug manufacturers constantly working to maintain this and all benefits PAct (ACA) into law in by implementing cost saving programs. Mandatory March, 2010, intend- have drastically raised prices on mail processing for maintenance medications and a ing to reduce medical costs, three-tier copayment structure were adopted in 2007. insure millions of previously a plethora of medications. Since 2014 the Fund has implemented measures uninsured or under-insured to ensure prescriptions meet Federal Food and Drug Americans, and to curb insur- Administration day’s supply and quantity limits, ance company profits by on well-established, life-saving medications, such as required mandatory prior authorizations for com- requiring a high percentage the EpiPen, by several hundred percent, or set prices pound medications (medications custom made from of premiums be actually used for new “miracle” drugs such as Tecfidera, for multi- two or more ingredients) which must be dispensed to pay for medical services. ple sclerosis, and Harvoni, which cures Hepatitis-C in from accredited compounding pharmacies, as well Many of the ACA’s 3 months, in the stratosphere. as required prior authorizations for very expensive consumer protections and One month of Tecfidera costs in excess of medications to ensure the correct medication is being Fund enhancements were long $17,000. Harvoni is priced about $35,000 per month. prescribed. overdue, such as elimina- While patients scramble to arrange financing • • • trustees tion of waiting periods (or for these medications, the corporate executives of outright denial of coverage) these pharmaceutical companies used the financial hile these tactics have all saved money, they constantly for those with pre-existing windfall these drugs produced to give themselves W have not generated enough savings to counter conditions, coverage of multi-million dollar salaries and other benefits. runaway medication price increases. seek new dependent children until If the Fund were an insurance company we could The Trustees and Administrator are committed to the end of the month they simply increase the premiums to cover the increased doing everything possible to maintain the prescrip- ways to turn 26, cost-free coverage of costs. But we are NOT an insurance company. We tion drug benefit without jeopardizing other fund preventive medical services must provide this prescription benefit, as well as all benefits. If we are unsuccessful, Fund participants meet the and medications and the other benefits, using the collectively bargained con- would need to purchase an optional rider if they removal of the maximum tribution rates. want a prescription benefit in their health plan. challenge. amounts insurance compa- Though these contribution rates have increased For those in the GHI-CBP plan these rider costs are nies would pay for essential slightly in the past 3 years, both through City-wide currently $120.50 per month for an individual ($60.25 benefits, including prescription drugs. increases associated with cost-savings agreements and per check, $1,446 annually) and $220.92 per month The CSA Welfare Fund provides the prescrip- through the CSA contract, they still lag far behind for family coverage ($110.46 per check, $2,561.04). tion benefit to in-service participants. Prior to the the exorbitant price increases imposed by pharma- Though the Fund would reimburse some out-of- ACA, the fund had an annual maximum benefit of ceutical manufacturers. pocket copayments, these payroll deductions would $15,000 per person. Beginning in 2014 that maxi- Since the end of December 2013 (the last period be a fixed cost. mum was also removed, which meant the fund had when a maximum benefit was allowed) the Fund’s to cover all medications its participants required. prescription costs have increased by $2 million, or Dr. Douglas V. Hathaway is Welfare Fund But the ACA did not anticipate that prescription 25%, while annual income has increased by only $1 Administrator. If you have a question, write to him at drug manufacturers would drastically increase prices million ($169 per member per year). [email protected].

IMPORTANT NOTICE Your Prescription Drug Coverage and Medicare

BY DOUGLAS V. HATHAWAY pants, expected to pay out as much as drop or lose your current coverage with More detailed information about standard Medicare prescription drug the CSA Welfare Fund and don’t join a Medicare plans that offer prescription Please read this notice carefully and coverage pays and is therefore consid- Medicare drug plan within 63 contin- drug coverage is in the “Medicare & keep it where you can find it. This notice ered Creditable Coverage. Because your uous days after your current coverage You” handbook. You’ll get a copy of the has information about your current existing coverage is Creditable Coverage, ends, you may pay a higher premium handbook in the mail every year from prescription drug coverage with the CSA you can keep this coverage and not pay (a penalty) to join a Medicare drug plan Medicare. You may also be contacted Welfare Fund and about your options a higher premium (a penalty) if you later later. directly by Medicare drug plans. under Medicare’s prescription drug cov- decide to join a Medicare drug plan. If you go 63 continuous days or lon- For more information about Medicare erage. This information can help you ger without creditable prescription drug prescription drug coverage: Visit www. decide whether or not you want to join When Can You Join A coverage, your monthly premium may medicare.gov. a Medicare drug plan. If you are con- Medicare Drug Plan? go up by at least 1% of the Medicare Call your State Health Insurance sidering joining, you should compare You can join a Medicare drug plan base beneficiary premium per month Assistance Program (see the inside back your current coverage, including which when you first become eligible for for every month that you did not have cover of your copy of the “Medicare drugs are covered at what cost, with the Medicare and each year from October that coverage. For example, if you go & You” handbook for their telephone coverage and costs of the plans offering 15th to December 7th. nineteen months without creditable number) for personalized help Medicare prescription drug coverage in However, if you lose your current coverage, your premium may consis- Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633- your area. Information about where you creditable prescription drug coverage, tently be at least 19% higher than the 4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486- can get help to make decisions about through no fault of your own, you will Medicare base beneficiary premium. You 2048. your prescription drug coverage is at the also be eligible for a two (2) month may have to pay this higher premium (a If you have limited income and end of this notice. Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to join a penalty) as long as you have Medicare resources, extra help paying for Medicare There are two important things you Medicare drug plan. prescription drug coverage. In addition, prescription drug coverage is available. need to know about your current cov- you may have to wait until the following For information about this extra help, erage and Medicare’s prescription drug What Happens To Your October to join. visit Social Security on the web at www. coverage: Current Coverage If You socialsecurity.gov, or call them at 1-800- 1. Medicare prescription drug cover- Decide to Join A Medicare For More Information About 772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). age became available in 2006 to every- Drug Plan? This Notice Or Your Current Remember: Keep this Creditable one with Medicare. You can get this cov- If you decide to join a Medicare drug Prescription Drug Coverage Coverage notice. If you decide to join erage if you join a Medicare Prescription plan, your current CSA Welfare Fund Contact the person listed below for one of the Medicare drug plans, you may Drug Plan or join a Medicare Advantage will not be affected. further information. NOTE: You’ll get be required to provide a copy of this Plan (like an HMO or PPO) that offers If you do decide to join a Medicare this notice each year. You will also get notice when you join to show whether prescription drug coverage. All Medicare drug plan and drop your current CSA it before the next period you can join a or not you have maintained creditable drug plans provide at least a standard Welfare Fund, be aware that you and Medicare drug plan, and if this coverage coverage and, therefore, whether or not level of coverage set by Medicare. Some your dependents will be able to get this through the CSA Welfare Fund changes. you are required to pay a higher pre- plans may also offer more coverage for a coverage back. You also may request a copy of this mium (a penalty). higher monthly premium. notice at any time. Contact: Douglas V. Hathaway, 2. CSA Welfare Fund has deter- When Will You Pay A Higher Ph.D., Fund Administrator: CSA Welfare mined that the prescription drug Premium (Penalty) To Join A For More Information About Fund, 40 Rector Street, 12th floor, New coverage offered by the CSA Welfare Medicare Drug Plan? Your Options Under Medicare York NY 100065-1729. Phone: (212) Fund is, on average for all plan partici- You should also know that if you Prescription Drug Coverage 962-6061.

oocCSA.indd 13 10/6/16 10:21 AM 14 CSA NEWS Oct. 2016

RETIREE Chapter CHAIR’S MESSAGE Gayle Lockett Outreach Coordinator Vote! We Cannot Program is Reinstituted Afford Apathy

t was heartening to witness a well-attended Labor Day Parade on Sept. 10. Hundreds of CSA retirees and working members marched and rode floats and double decker Ibuses in a show of strength and unity. The day was hot and humid but that did not diminish the energy, of those who attended. Some members brought their children and other members of the family. It is never too early to teach the next generation about unionism. The Tottenville High School Band performed magnificently. It brought We must back fond memories from decades ago when most middle schools and high get out schools and even some elementary schools had bands, orchestras and glee COREY BACHMAN the vote clubs. Unfortunately, today the per- QRetiree and AFSA Outreach Liaison Felice Hannah presents a workshop on Medicare at CSA Headquarters. forming arts and extracurricular activ- for Hillary ities are most often cut in education BY FELICE HANNAH tristate area will receive monthly training via budgets. That brings me to politics. Skype. Clinton. CSA has stressed how important We all, sooner or later, need help from oth- You will be provided contacts in your area it is to get out the vote for Hillary ers. Some CSA Retiree Chapter members may to provide assistance and workshops. I will Clinton. We know that very little in need services available through the federal, schedule a visit to your area to introduce you life is perfect and certainly the two main presidential candidates state and city governments. Such needs range prove that point. Be aware of what is important in this election from extended home care to transportation. Help your colleagues and for unions. On Sept. 13, many of us voted in the primaries for Getting access to the appropriate agencies can union-endorsed candidates. be a daunting task, even for members who are neighbors, gain valuable We cannot be apathetic about voting. As former leaders of healthy. Imagine trying to get assistance when schools, we analyzed school data, wrote curriculum, worked for you are alone and ill. monthly training central as testers, led workshops or taught college courses. We So CSA Retiree Chapter President Gayle are certainly capable of analyzing and advocating for who will Lockett and Executive Director Mark Brodsky to the appropriate contacts in city, state and protect our pensions, Social Security and Medicare benefits. We have decided to reinstitute the Outreach federal agencies. After your training, you will do not need a candidate who insults various groups, blames Coordinators Program. Now, we are asking for be the expert in your unit, providing speakers unions for any and all problems in education, and has provided your help to make this a reality. We know that for workshops approved by your unit leader. neither detailed proposals nor his tax returns. you care about your fellow members of the You will be the one to let every CSARC Member CSARC Retiree Chapter. Now is your chance to know that they count. And, at the end of the • • • help them, and to acquire tremendously useful day, you will be the one receiving the satisfac- he Retiree Chapter activities have begun their social and knowledge at the same time. tion of knowing you truly helped someone. cultural season. Retirees have registered for trips, classes, What would you be getting yourself into, T theater and dining events. Many members attended an you ask? Let me describe the training you Are you ready to answer the call? informative workshop with speakers covering advance plan- would receive and the satisfaction you will gain Qualifications needed: You need to care ning, MTA/Access-A-Ride, TRS, elder law and veterans outreach. as you help your colleagues and neighbors. about your neighbor and be a member of the The session ended with time for Q & A. First, you will receive extensive training in CSARC Chapter and your local Unit. If you’re Our newest unit, Northern NJ, held its first general meeting understanding Medicare, Social Security, health interested, contact me at [email protected], or in Teaneck, NJ. Rockland, Orange, Bergen County (R.O.B.) held and prescription drug plans. You’ll learn when (212) 823-2078. Thanks, and I look forward to its welcome back meeting at the Nanuet Library. The Brooklyn and how to enroll in Medicare, how to help working with you. Unit had theirs at St. Francis College. Our Lower Hudson find transportation for the disabled and other (Westchester) unit started this year with a welcome back lun- related issues. Monthly training workshops Felice Hannah, a CSA Retiree, serves as AFSA’s cheon at the Davenport. The Staten Island unit had a meeting will be held at 40 Rector St. for local outreach Outreach Liaison, and frequently presents to CSA and BBQ afterwards. All were informative social events. I will coordinators. Coordinators living outside of the Retiree Units around the country. also be attending the Queens traditional meeting/luncheon on Oct. 18. Remember, you may join more than one regional unit. We welcome and encourage your involvement. I am also looking forward to seeing you on Nov. 5 at CSA Retirement Party and the Retiree Chapter’s General Conference at the Hilton. Welcome New (For more information see the CSA website.) Rima Ritholtz , Principal of P176X for the Members past 20 years, has retired after 38 years of ser- vice to the students of District 75. Ms. Ritholtz Allen, Lisa and her school, which serves students on the Barnes, Leila autism spectrum and with special needs, Delfyett-White, Donna received numerous awards, grants and recog- Hamilton, Sherry nitions. A party is being held in Rima’s honor Korb, Daniel on November 30, 2016 at the Marina del Rey Moloney, Katherine in the Bronx. Anyone interested in attending Sherman, Doreen should contact Camille Celzo at: Ccelzo@ Sloman, Peter schools.nyc.gov Zissler-Lynch, Mary

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Historic Entryway to the Knowing Your Rights You have a right to appeal decisions made by Your Medicare Plan or Medicare. The following are the areas that beneficiaries United States For Millions most often file an appeal: • A denial for a health care service or prescription drug cover- age that you and your doctor deem ‘medically necessary’. • Prescription Drug not on formulary; request to lower tier; exception for quantity limit; prior authorization. If you are enrolled in original Medicare or Medicare is primary, follow the instructions for appeal on your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or on your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your prescription drug company. If you receive health coverage through a Medicare Advantage Plan, to file an appeal follow the instructions sent to you by the plan. You may also call the plan for appeal instructions. Advance Beneficiary Notice If you receive your health coverage through original Medicare, your doctor, supplier or provider may give you an ‘Advance Beneficiary Notice’ (ABN) for services that they know will proba- bly not be paid for by Medicare. You will be asked to sign the ABN with the understanding that if Medicare denies payment and no other insurer will pay, you will be responsible. An ABN is not a denial of service by Medicare therefore always request the supplier, doctor or provider to submit claims for service to Medicare. Do LUCIE ELIO not sign a blank or partially completed ABN. If you should have QRetirees took the ‘Hard Hat Guided Tour’ on Ellis Island, where they saw life-sized historic photos. received an ABN from your doctor, provider or supplier but did not, you may be entitled to reimbursement from the providers, BY LUCIE ELIO treat the immigrants. buildings, we viewed a photo doctors or suppliers for the amount you paid. If a provider, doctor On a guided tour, our CSA exhibit containing life-sized or service provider knows that Medicare never covers a service, For many years, Ellis Island Retiree members were able to photos of immigrants mounted they are not required to give you an ABN. If you are enrolled in was the first entryway for mil- take the hard hat tour and visit on walls and windows which a Medicare Advantage Plan, call your plan to ask about covered lions of immigrants to the the hospital which is now open serves as a visceral reminder items and or procedures. United States. As they arrived for tours as it is being recon- of the millions of people who You may also get an ABN if you are in a Skilled Nursing Facility they were either allowed to structed. During their tour the passed through Ellis Island. and the facility believes that Medicare will no longer cover your enter immediately or were group saw the laundry building, Besides the Hard Hat Tour, stay and/or supplies. This is called a ‘Skilled Nursing Facility ABN’. detained usually because of the wards, the kitchen, staff there is also a tour of the The facility will give you instructions on filling a ‘fast appeal’. sickness. A public health hospi- housing, the autopsy room and museum where you can learn —FELICE HANNAH tal was opened on the island to much more. In addition to the about the history of the island. RC Regional Units

SUNCOAST MANHATTAN SOUTHEAST FLORIDA CENTRAL NEW JERSEY Our two annual meetings for 2017 You will receive information about We are looking forward to seeing you The Annual Buffet Breakfast will are scheduled for Jan. 24 and March our three trips for the Fall of 2016 by mid- during the 2016-17 season. Please note be held on Oct. 19 at 10 am at the All 24. They will most likely be held at September. On Oct. 24, we are taking a tour the following events on your calendar: Seasons Diner 11, 4135 Rte. 9 N in the Oriental Buffet in Sarasota. Please of Madison Square Garden. In November Nov. Dine round event: Date, time Freehold. Please note this is a new loca- be there. We will have informative we will see the exhibit about the relation- and place to be announced. tion. The cost is $12 per person. You guests and it will be a great chance ship between London and the New York Dec. 12: Wine and Cheese Social, 4-6 will receive a flyer regarding details for for you to see your colleagues. Details theatre at the Library at the Lincoln Center PM, South County Civic Center, 16700 this event in the Fall Newsletter with will be mailed in early Jan. Questions? for the Performing Arts. On Dec. 12, we will Jog Road, Delray Beach, Florida. an envelope to remit your payment and Problems? Call me at (941) 383-0408, or visit Old St. Patrick’s Basilica. A complete Jan. 23: Health and Welfare Meeting, your 2017 $15 dues payment. Felice Email me: [email protected] lunch will follow each trip. 1 PM, South County Civic Center, 16700 Hannah will speak to us about changes — MICHAEL NEMOYTIN — STANLEY H WILSON Jog Road, Delray Beach, Florida. in Medicare. Feb. 27: Meeting and The second fall event will be the Luncheon: Benvenutos Bagel Meeting at the Manalapan STATEN ISLAND Catering, 1730 N. Federal Library Headquarters in Manalapan on Highway, Boynton Beach, November 21 at 9:30 am. The presenter Florida. at this meeting will be a coordinator Thanking Newsletter Staffers March 10: Health Fair, from the Executive Leadership Institute 1PM, South County Civic who will speak about present conditions Center, 16700 Jog Road, in the New York City schools regarding QLou Greenzweig, Delray Beach, Florida. administration and supervision. Should editor of the Staten — LOIS TURETZKY, ED.D Island Retiree Unit’s be very interesting! newsletter, and his Please plan to attend both of these wife Roz, thanked very worthwhile meetings. PACIFIC COAST — LUCILLE S. VECCHIARELLI all those who work on the newsletter Please note that our fall by hosting a BBQ at luncheon meeting will be their home. Everyone held on Dec. 5 at Mimi’s ROCKLAND ORANGE BERGEN feasted on barbecue Restaurant, 22651 Lake Our annual luncheon was held on and enjoyed sharing September 16 at Casa Mia in Orangeburg, anecdotes about Forest Drive, Lake Forest, CA NY. Dr. Douglas Hathaway, CSA Welfare everyone’s summer 92630. The cost of lunch will activities. From left be $18. We look forward to Fund Director was our featured speaker. to right; Arty Forster, welcoming our special guest, Doug brought us the latest informa- Assistant Unit Leader, CSA Executive Vice President tion about healthcare, drug plans and Al Nilsen, Unit Leader, Mark Cannizzaro. Anyone vis- Medicare. Our regular fall meeting will Bob Murphy, reporter, iting in Southern California is be held on Nov. 8 at the Nanuet Public Nancy Marotta, welcome to join us. Contact Library. The doors open at 10 am and the reporter, Joe Agnese, Carol Rainey: lamesagram- meeting starts at 10:30. The topic will proofreader, Lou [email protected] to select your be managing medications - drug inter- Greenzweig, editor luncheon entree in advance actions, shelf life, whether they should and Don Juliano, of the meeting. be taken with or without food and other reporter. — CAROL RAINEY important information. CLARA BAKER — BART BOOKMAN

oocCSA.indd 15 9/30/16 4:32 PM Council of School Supervisors & Administrators, NYC Periodicals New York State Federation of School Administrators Local 1 AFSA, AFL-CIO US POSTAGE PAID AT 40 Rector St., NY, NY 10006 Brooklyn, NY 11201 and Additional Mailing Office OCTOBER 2016

Printed on FSC certified paper

Compiled by Borough Briefs / In The Schools Corey Bachman

Bronx (DIST. 7-12) Celebration of Reading at Back to School Rally n Sept. 16, students from reminded all of the importance of the Williamsbridge Day reading, not only for your educa- O Care Center were celebrated tion, but also just for enjoyment at Councilman Andy King’s and even adventure. Reading Is Cool Back to School Rally. “With reading, our students The students were greeted by are able to expand and experience the councilman’s staff and given fun, fantasy, and excitement,” said jersey souvenir shirts and reading Williamsbridge Director Cheryl books. DeWitt. “We wanted to impress to Once on the field, Councilman them that reading really is cool.” King lead the children in doing The students were then treated the “Reading is Cool Wave” to a special story time read with and introducing NYC Schools Olympian Gold Medal Winner Chancellor Carmen Farina who Phyllis Chanez Frances.

also features a Mac computer lab and able environment,” said Dr. Nora De Manhattan (DIST. 1-6) a new Target-sponsored library with Staten Island (D-31) Rosa, Principal of I.S. 7. iPads. Ms. Caesar believes students School Technology should possess a strong background in tech skills like coding, Announcement: Summit Honor PowerPoint and Skype. Funds Allocated to Brooklyn (DIST. 13-23,32) “As a young Mosaic Preparatory Academy child, I thought Projects, Upgrades Principal Lisette Caesar was one of the Encyclopedia New Middle School 17 honorees recognized with an Council Member Joseph Borelli Britannica was a tech- Education in School Technology announced on Sept. 14 that his office Boasts Music Suite nological advance- Award at the 2016 School had allocated $2.25 million in fund- ment,” said Ms. Caesar.” and Science Lab Technology Summit at LaGuardia ing for Staten Island middle schools We have pre-K students High School. The awards, pre- for the fiscal year. The funds will go The new Dock Street School for nowadays operating sented by the NYCDOE on July toward a number of new projects and STEAM Studies in DUMBO is officially smartphones. We have 27th, honor individuals who upgrades for all public middle schools open for the 2016-2017 academic year. to literally get with the apply best practices in tech- in the councilman’s district. Housed in one floor of a sparkling program.” nology and education at The enhancements will include new building at the corner of Dock their school. electrical system upgrades at I.S. 75 and Water streets, the Dock Street As the founding and I.S. 7, which will allow the school School will serve 330 students in the Principal of Mosaic buildings to accommodate climate 6th through 8th grades from across Preparatory Academy, control systems and newer technol- Brooklyn’s District 13. The new school Lisette has used edu- ogy; construction of a greenhouse is the most modern public middle cational technology for the horticulture program at IS school in the borough, with a science to enhance teaching, 75. Funding has also been allocated lab and a music suite with classroom learning and opera- to schools for technology upgrades, space and separate practice rooms. tions at her school for including smart boards and laptop The school’s principal, Dr. Melissa the past nine years. carts. Vaughan, told the crowd on opening Every classroom in her “I.S. 7 was built in 1964 and is in day, “This continues to be an amazing school is provided with QMosaic desperate need of an electrical upgrade journey for me.” four desktop computers Preparatory to support much needed technology and a smartboard. Each Academy and air conditioning units. The fund- teacher is provided with Principal ing will allow students to utilize class- Send Borough Briefs to Corey Bachman a laptop. The school Lisette Caesar. room-based technology in a comfort- at [email protected].

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