Join tonight’s #NYSUTchat on Twitter

Let’s face it. The COVID-19 pandemic is shining the spotlight on systemic access and equity issues. It’s also showing the power and promise of the community schools.

That will be the topic for tonight’s #NYSUTchat at 7 p.m. on Twitter. The one-hour discussion will be co-hosted by NYSUT Executive Vice President Jolene DiBrango and Laura Franz, the president of the Albany Public Schools Teachers Association.

“This pandemic crisis has underscored stark inequities — whether it’s the digital divide or a lack of opportunity for too many of our students,” DiBrango said. “From rural areas where connectivity is non-existent to poor areas where it’s unaffordable, too many students are lacking internet access. We’ve also seen how crucial wraparound services are offering a lifeline to our students and their families.”

Rather than dwelling on the negatives, DiBrango wants to talk solutions. She is eager to hear from educators involved in community schools and talk about how the concept can be scaled up to serve more families.

DiBrango started the Sunday evening chats about a month ago to give members a chance to share ideas and talk about what’s happening with remote learning. Previous chats have focused on trauma-informed instruction, how to stay in touch with students and tips for handling stress. Participants from around the state have also talked about community outreach efforts, such as delivering extra food and supplies to families or posting a “we miss you” video that the community really appreciated.

You can follow or join this week’s chat by watching DiBrango’s Twitter feed @nysutEVP. She will post questions for you to respond to every 8 minutes for an hour. When you respond to the tweets, be sure to use the hashtag #NYSUTchat, so we can keep track of everyone’s responses.

“If you’re new to #edchat, don’t worry,” DiBrango said. “It’s informal and uplifting. The whole point is for us to get through these challenging times together.”