WNY member launches community food pantry

Within four days of the COVID-19 related closures, college professor Jill O’Malley pulled together her network to launch a much-needed food pantry in her Western New York community.

Members show what ‘NYSUT Strong’ means

To showcase our members’ tremendous dedication to our communities and kids, we’ve launched a new website called NYSUT Strong. It’s filled with videos, photos, articles and social media posts that exemplify the spirit and strength of NYSUT members.

NYSUT launches campaign to send thanks to our ‘Health Care Heroes’

The union is asking its members to send a note of thanks to our health care workers, using social media platforms and the hashtag #HealthCareHeroes.

Weekend backpack program still providing much-needed food

Thanks to regional food banks and the volunteer efforts of educators, the weekend backpack program that feeds students is still thriving.

Teaching and learning... from home

As schools across the state get a crash course in remote learning, educators are valiantly trying to do their best to “be there” for their students — meeting students’ social-emotional needs while attempting to provide some normalcy through academics.

NYSUT members are helping our friends on the front lines of the crisis (and you can, too)

West Seneca Teachers Association worked with the district administration and the local police to coordinate the collection and delivery of 1,400 goggles, dozens of n95 masks, gloves and gowns and thousands of sanitizing wipes to clean the goggles.

How to Donate Personal Protective Equipment to Health Care Workers In Need

As part of NYSUT’s response to COVID-19, we are encouraging those who can donate personal protective equipment to do so. Many of us may have access to personal protective equipment either in science labs at your school or university or through a personal connection. We hope you find this guidance useful as you embark on collecting and donating these very much needed pieces of equipment. 

Building the plane as it flies: A thank you to educators in a time of crisis

What college or professional-development course could have ever prepared us for what we are dealing with right now?" asks New York State Teacher of the Year Rachel Murat. "The circumstances surrounding COVID-19 have challenged us in so many ways we never could have imagined. And yet, we are rising to the challenge and beyond."

Teamwork keeps food flowing for students, families in Chatham

Darci Ordway, president of the 50-member Chatham Central School District Transportation, said her union members are delivering food to any family that has requested assistance. Initially, deliveries were to students on the free and reduced lunch program, but as more requests come in regularly to the district, they are all being met, she said.

NYSUT extends a helping hand to retirees

“It felt nice to have the union check in, to know you were on someone’s radar. I’m fortunate that I’m not alone, but many retirees are,” said Carol Davis, a Mechanicville Teachers Association retiree. “Having someone reach out is a wonderful gift.”

Feeding the community: In Rondout Valley, it takes a union

Not only is it full steam ahead, but it’s full team ahead for hundreds of teachers, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, aides and clerical staff in Rondout Valley who are joining together each day to make sure their students and families are fed while school is closed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Video: A Message from Andy Pallotta

"This crisis shows the vital role public schools, higher education and health care institution play in communities throughout New York State," says NYSUT President Andy Pallotta.