Weaver

NEA President Reg Weaver preached a sermon Saturday morning, bringing his charming and often raucous style to a welcoming plenary of 2,000 delegates.

He praised NYSUT as a force for political good for schools and students, but also asked all delegates to keep the pressure on politicians and policymakers. Quoting Martin Luther King Jr., Weaver said, "Our day will end the day we become silent."

Speaking about the fight for better federal legislation, Weaver said, "We are standing toe-to-toe so we can make whatever replaces NCLB something we can live with. We will not accept quick schemes for multi-faceted problems."

He encouraged locals to tell their stories to their communities. "Let's talk about our successes, instead of letting them label our schools as failing. You do a wonderful job every day."

Van Roekel

Dennis Van Roekel, a veteran Arizona math teacher, union leader and NEA vice president, delivered special thanks to NYSUT President Dick Iannuzzi and Vice President Robin Rapaport.

"I want to thank Dick and Robin for their great role in unification," Van Roekel said. "The benefits of your work will be seen for years to come."

He cited the important role union educators can play in the upcoming elections. "You did the unification just in time for the 2008 elections," said Van Roekel. "NYSUT is well prepared and well positioned for these elections. ... When 70 or 80 percent of Americans think the country is going in the wrong direction, then it's especially important we get involved."