A new five-year contract for the 105 members of the Nyack School-Related Professionals local union, led by Elaine Petersen, provides economic security, a clearer career path and a stronger voice on the job.

The agreement adjusts the hourly wage schedule to provide the same increase for all members; it adds steps, evens out increments and places incumbent members on a new step on an improved schedule. It also puts teaching assistants on a tenure track, based on their time in the Nyack schools. Members also won improved sick and personal day benefits, and added "significant other" to their bereavement leave language.

Members can now participate in VOTE-COPE and NYSUT Member Benefits programs through payroll deduction.

In Washington County, the Washington Academy SRPs in Salem, led by Brenda Levey, recently wrapped up successful bargaining. The three-year agreement includes annual increases, improved longevity payments at 15 and 20 years and health insurance reimbursement for part-timers whose spouse has coverage.

In this era when union rights are more important than ever, the 53 members of the Mount Pleasant Cottage School Teaching Assistants' Association voted to affiliate with NYSUT. They work at a Special Act school in Westchester County.

NYSUT members who work in the so-called 853 Schools face challenging workdays.

Named for the legislative act that created them, these publicly funded schools serve students with special needs who are often in custody of the state Office of Children and Family Services or a county agency.

One such school, St. Dominic's in Rockland County, serves 75 students. The teachers, teaching assistants, aides and crisis workers are members of the St. Dominic's Staff Association, led by Chris Ann Garcia.

Earlier this school year, they approved a three-year contract with an 8.25 percent pay increase, higher class coverage pay and better continuing education stipends. They also gained a service retention bonus, a health insurance buyout and some union release time.

— Bernie Mulligan