The union’s annual policymaking convention will be held May 14 as a limited, virtual event.
The Board voted for the change as NYSUT United went to press.
“In order to prevent the further spread of the COVID-19 virus, we must continue to take measures to limit physical contact while engaging our members in new, meaningful ways,” said NYSUT President Andy Pallotta. “Although we found ourselves under these social distancing restrictions in a matter of days, we understand that they will not be lifted as quickly so we must prepare for a gradual, measured return.”
That gradual return means the union convention, originally scheduled for May 1–2 will now be a virtual event.
The virtual RA, open to all reported delegates, will feature an agenda limited to just three items:
- A report of the Credentials Committee;
- A report by President Pallotta outlining the union’s path forward and presenting the procedures for mail-ballot elections; and
- A candidate forum to allow those candidates who have previously requested such participation, in accordance with the 2020 Election Procedures, to speak to delegates.
All other matters before the RA, including resolutions, adoption of the legislative program, and the endorsement of a candidate for the state Teachers’ Retirement System board will be referred to the NYSUT Board for consideration at future meetings.
RA elections for NYSUT officers, members of the Board, and state delegates and alternate state delegates to the American Federation of Teachers will be conducted according to procedures adopted by the NYSUT Board and outlined below.
Social distancing guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control has prompted the cancellation or postponement of mass gatherings scheduled throughout the summer months. The Board also voted to cancel or postpone all in-person NYSUT meetings and conferences through Sept. 1, including Leadership Institute, LAP, the NYSUT Endorsement Conference, the New Local Presidents Conference and regional leadership conferences. The union is investigating hosting some events virtually.
For more information, visit nysut.org/ra.