Happy Holidays and New Year! As snowflakes mingle and silver bells jingle, the season presents opportunities for reflection, contemplation and the fresh hope of a new year. Here are wishes for 2015 from the officers of New York State United Teachers.
Karen E. Magee, NYSUT president:
"In the wake of recent school shootings, here in America and across the globe, and the ongoing scourge of poverty and its effects on students, my wish is a simple one. May 2015 bring safe, fully funded schools for all students here in New York and throughout the world, and equal educational and economic opportunity for all."
Andrew Pallotta, NYSUT executive vice president:
"For the governor to see the light."
Catalina Fortino, NYSUT vice president
"I love the word 'peace.' I wish for peace and understanding of each other, of our worlds. It's more than appreciation; it's a deepening of understanding. And out of that comes respect for one another."
Paul Pecorale, NYSUT vice president:
"My wish is for all of us to think about and practice in our lives the basic tenets of the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights. I would love to see all of us embed these rights — such as the rights to education, freedom, public services, dignity and community - into our everyday actions."
Martin Messner, NYSUT secretary-treasurer:
"My wish is for a new governor."