You probably noticed that the last issue of New York Teacher — dated Feb. 28 — was heftier than most. The reason for that, as regular readers no doubt realized, was the inclusion of a supplement detailing the proposed resolutions and constitutional amendment that will be considered by NYSUT's annual Representative Assembly next month in New York City.

The RA is the body of elected delegates from across the state that sets union policy and carves out positions on issues important to our members. The resolutions published here reflect the diverse interests of NYSUT's various constituencies. In addition to our more traditional education and health care issues, locals submitted resolutions ranging from fair trade to global warming to voting rights for convicted felons.

The debate and voting at the RA — the union's highest-level decision-making body, next to member referendum — is the culmination of an exhaustive, inclusive policy-making process. The genesis of the process that leads to our policies and positions — and the strategies to get them implemented — begins at the grassroots level. It begins with you.

On the road

I've written many times in this space about my visits to NYSUT locals, election districts, schools and meetings that provide me with the opportunity to confer with leaders and members and to discern from them — from you — the issues and concerns that affect our professions. I find these fact-finding visits thought-provoking and productive. My hope, needless to say, is that they help me be a better leader of this great union.

In early February, for instance, I spent some time with our colleagues at the Developmental Disabilities Institute in Smithtown, right on the block where I live. The teachers and staff at this 853 School do a remarkable job in the face of some real challenges. That visit gave me an appreciation of the work an important NYSUT constituency does every day and the financial struggles they go through as a result of the unfair and unequal way they are funded.

Likewise, Vice President Maria Neira and I recently visited programs for English language learners in Brentwood and Central Islip. There, we heard from teachers, students, administrators and parents about their frustrations as a result of some unreasonable state and federal expectations and requirements that are put on some of our most vulnerable students. Of most interest was a voluntary staff group that meets after school to discuss the special issues surrounding ELL students in a "Reading First" environment. Groups like this exist around the state and are a testament to the dedication of our members.

Maria had a similar experience recently in Jamestown, and that on-the-ground information helps us evolve the union's position in response to mandates that govern the important work we do every day.

Executive Vice President Alan Lubin, who oversees our political and legislative operation, was in Watertown early this month for a legislative breakfast and meets regularly with regional political action committees to help shape our lobbying agenda. Alan will also spend a lot of time in western New York, listening and delivering our message in the weeks leading up to the RA.

For Vice President Kathleen Donahue, if it's Tuesday it must be Vestal … or Plattsburgh … or Brooklyn … or just about any city or town in New York. Kathleen directs NYSUT's Program Services department and, as a result, has extensive direct contact with our diverse constituency. She's constantly on the road listening to members, bringing their thoughts and concerns back to the organization and then back again, sharing strategies and responses developed as a result of member and leader input.

As a special liaison to NYSUT's former NEA/NY locals, Vice President Robin Rapaport has a unique portfolio. His travels — explaining unification and listening to the concerns of members and leaders — has made our joining together seamless.

Just as importantly, it's our obligation to share our message not only with you, but also with your communities. We have attempted to achieve this by significantly increasing our presence in the media — print, radio and Web. For example, I do a monthly commentary on public radio. I'm also currently taking your views to editorial boards across the state.

Clearly, it is no coincidence that the theme for this year's RA is "On the Move." It's more than a slogan; it is how this union operates when it is at its best. Alan, Maria, Kathleen and Robin believe as I do: It is vital for us as leaders to listen and learn from those we lead. Our members know what's happening in their workplace and in their community better than anyone. Incorporating your insights into our work makes NYSUT one of the most effective and responsive unions in the nation.

Women's history in the making this year

While March is Women's History Month, this year's commemoration is of particular significance. For the first time in our nation's history, a woman has a legitimate shot at being elected president of the United States. No matter where one is on the political spectrum — no matter how one feels about Sen. Hillary Clinton's candidacy — very few can argue that this is a historic event.

Of course, it's no secret where NYSUT stands. We helped convince one of our national affiliates, the American Federation of Teachers, to endorse Sen. Clinton, and we've been working very hard to help her secure the Democratic nomination.

On women's rights, Sen. Clinton's record is second to none. For decades, both here and abroad, she has championed issues important to women. Issues such as paycheck fairness, access to family planning services, teen pregnancy, the Equal Rights Amendment and many more have been critical concerns for her. As a lawyer, first lady and now as our senator, Sen. Clinton has worked to empower all women, especially low-income women, throughout the world.

She is right on these important issues, just as she is right on labor, public education and health care. That's why so many NYSUT members are proud to support her quest for the presidency.

The race for the White House is far from over and, as of this writing, it's unclear how Sen. Clinton will ultimately fare (although her momentum has clearly been regained).

What is not in doubt is that her candidacy will forever be part of women's history and will be recognized as an important achievement for many years to come. As NYSUT members, we should be proud of the part we've played.