A new statewide advertising campaign launched by NYSUT to welcome educators, staff and students back to school sends a clear message: Whether learning is in-person, hybrid or remote, NYSUT members are working to make sure that students have a safe, healthy place to learn, reliable meals and access to the tools they need for remote learning.
“New York’s educators and school staff stepped up last March when this pandemic upended virtually every aspect of our lives, and they’re here to continue stepping up in the 2020-21 school year — no matter what may lie ahead,” NYSUT President Andy Pallotta said. “NYSUT members are tireless in their dedication to their craft and the students and families they serve. ‘It’s what we do’ is more than just a slogan. I couldn’t be prouder of the way our members embody those words every day.”
The ad campaign runs through September as part of a $1 million broadcast, cable and digital buy to coincide with school openings. The 30-second ad states, “No matter what back-to-school looks like for your child, we’ll take care of them. It’s what we do.” The ad can be viewed here.
The ad is part of the statewide union’s ongoing efforts to promote safe school reopenings during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the absence of a statewide mandate, NYSUT is urging county governments to require that masks be worn at all times in schools in their jurisdiction.
In addition, the union is preparing legal action to prevent a 20 percent aid reduction for school districts. If enacted, the cuts would withhold millions of dollars and disproportionately impact high-need, low-wealth schools.