LOCAL ACTION PROJECT: Union outreach program builds stronger locals through member engagement

With assistance from NYSUT staff, they spent the week discussing ways to build meaningful partnerships within their communities and improve communications and outreach. They strategized on how to boost member participation within their locals. And they examined how to establish effective structures within their unions that would help enhance their workplaces and districts.

NYSUT members urge vigilance around water

Water safety is of heightened concern each summer as families, swimmers and hikers head to beaches, creeks, waterfalls and backyard pools to cool off - and NYSUT members are among those who are on call to protect and educate.

NYSUT statement on State Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia’s resignation

"As Commissioner Elia’s tenure comes to a close, we wish her well in her future endeavors. We look forward to engaging with the Board of Regents as the search for the next commissioner begins and ensuring that the voices of hundreds of thousands of educators across New York State are heard throughout the process. We look forward to working closely with the next commissioner to fix the broken state testing system for children in grades 3-8 and on our mission to cultivate the next generation of highly qualified, dedicated educators. Selecting a new commissioner with a deep background in public school classrooms will go a long way toward achieving these critical goals."

NYSUT statement on the passing of 32BJ SEIU President Héctor Figueroa

“The entire NYSUT family is deeply saddened to hear of Héctor’s passing. A true champion of the working class, Héctor fought tirelessly to ensure hardworking New Yorkers were able to achieve a better life for themselves and their families."

Taking on plastic, one class at a time

Newcomb Spanish teacher Martha Swan and her students began examining problems with the use of plastics several years ago as part of their study of marine sanctuaries.

Teen human rights institute nurtures student activism

Student activism is soaring across the country, and that momentum showed up this week at NYSUT — 93 students strong. They are here for the fifth annual Capital Region Institute for Human Rights Teen Summer Symposium.