NYSTRS Announces Return of
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YOU NEED TO CALM DOWN!
NYSUT Member Benefits is excited to announce the availability of the premium Calm subscription as a FREE BENEFIT for all NYSUT in-service members. The premium Calm subscription provides in-service members with unlimited access to the full library of content at calm.com and in the Calm app, which can be utilized via a desktop, laptop, tablet, or mobile device (iOS or Android).
Have your NYSUT membership number ready and use this DEDICATED LINK to set up an account, log in and secure this free service!
Note: In-service members can add up to five dependents (age 16 or older) to receive their own premium Calm subscription. Dependents can only be added through the calm.com site (not the Calm app); dependents will then receive their own premium Calm subscription.
Have your NYSUT membership number ready and use this DEDICATED LINK to set up an account, log in and secure this free service!
Note: In-service members can add up to five dependents (age 16 or older) to receive their own premium Calm subscription. Dependents can only be added through the calm.com site (not the Calm app); dependents will then receive their own premium Calm subscription.
Beware of Fake NYS Retirement
Mobile App on Google Play
Beware of Fake NYS Retirement Mobile App on Google PlayA fraudulent mobile app claiming to be "NYS Retirement" is currently available on Google Play. Do not download or use this fraudulent app. It is not affiliated with NYSTRS and may be an attempt to steal your personal data.
If you think your personal identity has been compromised, contact NYSTRS immediately at (800) 348-7298, Ext. 6190.
NYSTRS does offer a valid, secure mobile app titled "NYSTRS Mobile," which is available on Google Play and the App Store.
If you think your personal identity has been compromised, contact NYSTRS immediately at (800) 348-7298, Ext. 6190.
NYSTRS does offer a valid, secure mobile app titled "NYSTRS Mobile," which is available on Google Play and the App Store.
SOLIDARITY FOREVER!
President Daszenski, members of the GNTA Executive Board and volunteers from the general membership joined a rainy rally on Sunday, April 23, 2023, to demonstrate support for Lawrence teachers, who have been working without a contract for TWELVE YEARS. According to Lawrence teachers at the rally, the main cause of the impasse is the district's desire to eliminate the class size provision from the contract. The Lawrence Teachers Association has filed a lawsuit against their BOE alleging bad faith negotiations.
The Basics of FDIC INsurance
A SPECIAL EVENING BENEFITING THE GREAT NECK STUDENT AID FUND
NYT: WHy UnionS MATTER SO MUCH (3/10)
For decades, the Republican Party has seemed to care more about labor unions than the Democratic Party has.
Many Republican officials treat organized labor as their political enemy. When Republicans gain power in a state capital, they often try to pass “right to work” laws meant to shrink unions. And these laws have their intended effect: They reduce the number of workers who belong to unions, reduce Democrats’ share of the vote in elections and reduce the number of working-class candidates who run for office, academic research has found.
Modern Democratic politicians, on the other hand, have often sat out the political battle. Every Democratic president for decades, including Joe Biden, has said he favors a federal law to make it easier for workers to organize — and each of those presidents has failed to pass such a law. Democratic leaders in Congress also have not made labor law a priority. Nor have many Democratic governors.
Jamelle Bouie, a Times Opinion columnist, captured this asymmetry when he wrote: “Republicans and other conservatives know who their enemies are — they know that organized labor is a key obstacle to dismantling the social safety net. The question is whether Democrats understand that their fortunes are also bound up in the fate of workers.”
READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE
Many Republican officials treat organized labor as their political enemy. When Republicans gain power in a state capital, they often try to pass “right to work” laws meant to shrink unions. And these laws have their intended effect: They reduce the number of workers who belong to unions, reduce Democrats’ share of the vote in elections and reduce the number of working-class candidates who run for office, academic research has found.
Modern Democratic politicians, on the other hand, have often sat out the political battle. Every Democratic president for decades, including Joe Biden, has said he favors a federal law to make it easier for workers to organize — and each of those presidents has failed to pass such a law. Democratic leaders in Congress also have not made labor law a priority. Nor have many Democratic governors.
Jamelle Bouie, a Times Opinion columnist, captured this asymmetry when he wrote: “Republicans and other conservatives know who their enemies are — they know that organized labor is a key obstacle to dismantling the social safety net. The question is whether Democrats understand that their fortunes are also bound up in the fate of workers.”
READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE
PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS
Learn about the limited time changes and how to apply.
If you have worked in public service (federal, state, local, tribal government or a non-profit organization) for 10 years or more (even if not consecutively), you may be eligible to have all your student debt canceled. Now, for a limited time, it is easier than ever to receive that forgiveness, or get credit toward forgiveness, if you have not yet served 10 years.
Use this TOOL to see if you are eligible.
If eligible, you must APPLY before October 31, 2022.
Please note: this program is administered by the federal government and is being shared as a courtesy. GNTA has nothing to do with the loan forgiveness application or process.
Use this TOOL to see if you are eligible.
If eligible, you must APPLY before October 31, 2022.
Please note: this program is administered by the federal government and is being shared as a courtesy. GNTA has nothing to do with the loan forgiveness application or process.
NYSUT STUDENT DEBT WEBINARS
Below you will find the updated schedule for NYSUT Student Debt Webinars. Webinars are led by our partners at Cambridge Credit Counseling and are designed to help NYSUT members better understand the various student loan repayment options with a focus on Teacher Loan Cancellation and Public Student Loan Forgiveness programs. The workshop will also address the recent federal student loan forgiveness program.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR WEBINARS
- Thursday, Sept. 15 @ 6 p.m.
- Thursday, Sept. 22 @ 6 p.m.
- Wednesday, Sept. 28 @ 4:30 p.m.
- Thursday, Oct. 6 @ 6 p.m.
- Thursday, Oct. 13 @ 6 p.m.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR WEBINARS
NEW FEDERAL PROTECTIONS FOR CONSUMERS
AGAINST SURPRISE MEDICAL BILLS
COMMUNITY MATTERS
Four free covid at-home tests per household
Residential households in the U.S. can order one set of 4 free at-home tests from USPS.com. Here’s what you need to know about your order:
https://special.usps.com/testkits
- Limit of one order per residential address
- One order includes 4 individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests
- Orders will ship free starting in late January
https://special.usps.com/testkits
The GNTA's Social Justice Committee, Chaired by Jennifer Snyder, was again featured in the press for their critical work to help feed the Great Neck community.
DOH COVID TESTING REQUIREMENT
FOR SCHOOL STAFF
From the Commissioner’s Determination on COVID-19 Testing Pursuant to 10 NYCRR 2.62 on September 2, 2021:
Testing Requirement for teachers and staff: P-12 schools are required to ensure teachers and staff...have testing performed for COVID-19 at least once per week when a school is in a geographic area identified by the CDC as having low, moderate, substantial, or high transmission rates. Teachers and staff may be permitted to opt-out of mandatory weekly screening testing if they provide documentation of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19, as set forth in 10 NYCRR 2.62. Teachers and staff who work at multiple schools do not need to receive multiple tests; they may use one weekly test result to demonstrate to any number of schools where they work that they have fulfilled this requirement.
The district has created and distributed via email the GNPS STAFF COVID VACCINATION FORM. Check your email and fill out the Google Form by the end of business tomorrow (9/10). This form will be followed up with more information from the district.
Testing Requirement for teachers and staff: P-12 schools are required to ensure teachers and staff...have testing performed for COVID-19 at least once per week when a school is in a geographic area identified by the CDC as having low, moderate, substantial, or high transmission rates. Teachers and staff may be permitted to opt-out of mandatory weekly screening testing if they provide documentation of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19, as set forth in 10 NYCRR 2.62. Teachers and staff who work at multiple schools do not need to receive multiple tests; they may use one weekly test result to demonstrate to any number of schools where they work that they have fulfilled this requirement.
The district has created and distributed via email the GNPS STAFF COVID VACCINATION FORM. Check your email and fill out the Google Form by the end of business tomorrow (9/10). This form will be followed up with more information from the district.
GNTA Calendar, 2021-22
What ARE SOME STEPS TO TAKE When a Fraudulent Unemployment Claim Is Made in Your Name?*
* These are suggestions and are not meant to substitute legal advice. Ultimately and ironically, the victim of fraud bears the burden to contact institutions and protect their identity.
COVID VACCINE information and updates
IMPORTANT COVID VACCINATION UPDATES:
PHARMACY VACCINATION SITES:
Note: You must have an online account at the pharmacy in order to register for vaccination!
QUICK LINK TO STATE-RUN FACILITIES:
https://am-i-eligible.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/Public/providers
NASSAU COUNTY SITES:
The NASSAU COUNTY Covid Vaccine Site has been updated to include teachers. If you navigate to the bottom of the site to assess your eligibility, you will be taken to a list of facilities offering the vaccine.
NEW: If you are a qualifying Nassau County resident seeking the COVID vaccine, you can click HERE to pre-register and the County will (ostensibly) get back to you when slots open up.
Stay Tuned: There will be a new Nassau site at LIU Post when the State allocation of vaccines increases.
To make an appointment at other vaccination sites, call the New York State hotline at: 1-833-NYS-4-VAX
SUFFOLK COUNTY SITES:
SUFFOLK COUNTY's Covid website is listed at the end of this list of vaccination locations:
https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/vaccine
If you live in or are willing to travel to NYC, here are some options for you:
If you live in or are willing to travel to WESTCHESTER:
- NEW: The CDC has updated its guidance on international travel. Read about it HERE.
- Cuomo signs legislation granting public and private employees four hours off to receive COVID-19 vaccination. Read about it HERE.
- NEW: Likely legal, 'Vaccine Passports' emerge as the next Coronavirus divide. Read about this concept HERE.
- The CDC has issued Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People. Read about it HERE.
- NEW: Vaccinated & unvaccinated people are getting more lax with behavior when vigilance really matters. Read about it in The Atlantic.
- Drug makers report promising results for antibody treatments for high-risk patients. Read about it HERE.
- While much of America is experiencing some COVID relief, troubling transmission trends persist in the NE. Read about it HERE.
- The FDA has approved Moderna's request to put extra doses in each vial, ostensibly speeding up vaccine distribution. Read about it HERE.
- New York State loosens domestic COVID travel restrictions for those who are fully vaccinated. Read about it HERE.
- NEW: The CDC updates guidance on cleaning surfaces. Read about it HERE!
- The Second COVID-19 Shot is a Rude Reawakening for Immune Cells (but the side effects are worth it!). Read this story in The Atlantic.
- Can the vaccine decrease the spread of COVID to unvaccinated people. Read the Q & A in The Washington Post.
- The FDA finds J & J vaccine safe and effective, with even fewer side-effects that Moderna and Pfizer's. Read more HERE.
- The WHO states that the Moderna vaccine has been shown to have an efficacy of approximately 92 per cent in protecting against COVID-19, starting 14 days after the FIRST dose. Read more about it HERE.
- Comparing the Covid-19 vaccines developed by Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. Read about it HERE.
PHARMACY VACCINATION SITES:
- Click here for appointments at Walgreens.
- Click here for appointments at CVS.
- Click here for appointments at Rite Aid.
Note: You must have an online account at the pharmacy in order to register for vaccination!
QUICK LINK TO STATE-RUN FACILITIES:
https://am-i-eligible.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/Public/providers
NASSAU COUNTY SITES:
The NASSAU COUNTY Covid Vaccine Site has been updated to include teachers. If you navigate to the bottom of the site to assess your eligibility, you will be taken to a list of facilities offering the vaccine.
NEW: If you are a qualifying Nassau County resident seeking the COVID vaccine, you can click HERE to pre-register and the County will (ostensibly) get back to you when slots open up.
- Click here for teacher-only appointments at NCC
- Click here for teacher-only appointments at Yes We Can CC
- NEW: Click here for appoints at SUNY Old Westbury
- Click here for appointments at Belmont Park, Elmont
- Click here for appointments at Jones Beach (STATE)
- Click here for appointments at NYU Langone
- Click here for appointments at Northwell Health (currently for 60 and older only)
Stay Tuned: There will be a new Nassau site at LIU Post when the State allocation of vaccines increases.
To make an appointment at other vaccination sites, call the New York State hotline at: 1-833-NYS-4-VAX
SUFFOLK COUNTY SITES:
SUFFOLK COUNTY's Covid website is listed at the end of this list of vaccination locations:
- Click here for appointments at LI Ducks Stadium in Central Islip.
- Click here for appointments in Brentwood.
- Click here for appointments at Stony Brook University Hospital (STATE)
- Click here for appointments in Riverhead.
- Click here for appointments in Selden (COMORBIDITIES ONLY)
https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/vaccine
If you live in or are willing to travel to NYC, here are some options for you:
- Click here to make an appointment at MOUNT SINAI locations (facilities currently only available for second shots when the first shot was at MS)
- Click here to make an appointment with NYC's Vaccine Pod, which *appears* to be open to non-city residents
- Click here to make an appointment with the NYC Department of Health
- Patients of Weill Cornell, New York Pres and Columbia Doctors can click here to make an appointment after they establish an account in Connect.
- Click here to make an appointment at the NYC Dept of Health COVID-19 Pop-Up location.
- Click here to make an appointment with NYC Health and Hospitals. Note: You must either live in NYC, work in NYC or be affiliated with an H & H doctor!
- Click here to make an appointment at the Javitz Center (STATE)
- Click here to make an appointment at Aqueduct Racetrack (STATE)
- Click here to make an appointment at Lenox Hill Hospital
- Click here to make an appointment at Yankees Stadium (BRONX RESIDENTS ONLY)
- Click here to make an appointment at Citi Field
- NEW FOR QUEENS RESIDENTS ONLY: Click HERE to make an appointment at York College
- NEW FOR BROOKLYN RESIDENTS ONLY: Click HERE to make an appointment at Medgar Evars College
If you live in or are willing to travel to WESTCHESTER:
CAN YOUR EMPLOYER MAKE YOU
GET THE COVID-19 VACCINATION?
This FAQ has been compiled by Newsday, with an assist from the Associated Press. The GNTA takes no position on any of the matters discussed below, and is merely sharing the FAQ for informational purposes.
Can my employer require me to get the COVID vaccine?
The short answer is yes, but with some exceptions. Private employers are legally permitted to define basic working conditions and can adopt health and safety standards for their workspace. Requiring employees to get vaccinated against diseases that could compromise health and safety in the workplace would be viewed as part of that ability, experts say.
On Dec. 16, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission issued guidelines stating that employers have the right to impose a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy. The EEOC, the federal agency in charge of enforcing laws to prohibit discrimination in the workplace, previously allowed companies to mandate the flu vaccine.
"Employers generally have wide scope" to make rules for the workplace, said Dorit Reiss, a law professor who specializes in vaccine policies at the University of California Hastings College of the Law. "It's their business."
Are there exceptions that would allow me to refuse to take the vaccine?
Yes, people can request exemptions for medical or religious reasons. But they are rare and fit specific criteria.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 stipulates that if an employee has a "sincerely-held religious belief" that prevents them from taking the vaccine the employer cannot require the worker to be vaccinated.
Are there exemptions for medical disabilities?
Yes, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) stipulates that if an employee has a medical disability and cannot safety receive a vaccine, it cannot be mandated by the employer.
What if an employee doesn't want to take the vaccine for political reasons?
There is no political exemption. Social, political and economic beliefs — or a general "anti-vaxxer" position — are not considered a protected group under Title VII.
What if an employer cannot grant an accommodation to the employee?
If an employee qualifies for a religious or disability exemption, the business must try to provide a reasonable accommodation for the worker, such as switching them from working in the office to working from home while COVID-19 poses risks to public health, the guidelines stated.
But businesses do not have to grant an accommodation if it will cause them an "undue hardship," either because it's too costly, logistically burdensome or if it would compromise the health and safety of other employees. Under those circumstances, the employer would have the legal right to "exclude that employee from the workplace," according to the EEOC guidance.
Under those circumstances, would an employer be allowed to terminate an employee for refusing vaccination?
Not automatically. Before termination, an employer must determine whether the employee would be subject to any other local, state or federal regulations and if union labor rules would apply, But if no other possible accommodation can be made, an employee could potentially be terminated for refusing the vaccine, labor experts said.
Can my employer require me to get the COVID vaccine?
The short answer is yes, but with some exceptions. Private employers are legally permitted to define basic working conditions and can adopt health and safety standards for their workspace. Requiring employees to get vaccinated against diseases that could compromise health and safety in the workplace would be viewed as part of that ability, experts say.
On Dec. 16, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission issued guidelines stating that employers have the right to impose a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy. The EEOC, the federal agency in charge of enforcing laws to prohibit discrimination in the workplace, previously allowed companies to mandate the flu vaccine.
"Employers generally have wide scope" to make rules for the workplace, said Dorit Reiss, a law professor who specializes in vaccine policies at the University of California Hastings College of the Law. "It's their business."
Are there exceptions that would allow me to refuse to take the vaccine?
Yes, people can request exemptions for medical or religious reasons. But they are rare and fit specific criteria.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 stipulates that if an employee has a "sincerely-held religious belief" that prevents them from taking the vaccine the employer cannot require the worker to be vaccinated.
Are there exemptions for medical disabilities?
Yes, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) stipulates that if an employee has a medical disability and cannot safety receive a vaccine, it cannot be mandated by the employer.
What if an employee doesn't want to take the vaccine for political reasons?
There is no political exemption. Social, political and economic beliefs — or a general "anti-vaxxer" position — are not considered a protected group under Title VII.
What if an employer cannot grant an accommodation to the employee?
If an employee qualifies for a religious or disability exemption, the business must try to provide a reasonable accommodation for the worker, such as switching them from working in the office to working from home while COVID-19 poses risks to public health, the guidelines stated.
But businesses do not have to grant an accommodation if it will cause them an "undue hardship," either because it's too costly, logistically burdensome or if it would compromise the health and safety of other employees. Under those circumstances, the employer would have the legal right to "exclude that employee from the workplace," according to the EEOC guidance.
Under those circumstances, would an employer be allowed to terminate an employee for refusing vaccination?
Not automatically. Before termination, an employer must determine whether the employee would be subject to any other local, state or federal regulations and if union labor rules would apply, But if no other possible accommodation can be made, an employee could potentially be terminated for refusing the vaccine, labor experts said.
Casting a ballot is as American as Apple Pie and we want to make sure that everyone -- regardless of who your candidates are -- exercises his/her/their right to VOTE! In fact, EARLY VOTING has started in New York, so feel free to use the handy dandy NYSUT chart below if you want to get a head-start on democracy prior to 11/3!
CHANGE YOU CAN BELIEVE IN
The GNTA Social Justice Steering Committee met with Adolescent Advocates on September 23. We are looking to work together to STOP THE HATE. Stay tuned!
It's national voter registration day!
Today, Sept. 22, is National Voter Registration Day—and we want to make sure you, your friends, your family and your colleagues are registered to vote in this year’s election.
Click here to register to vote—then share this link on social media to spread the word.
The right to vote underpins every other right we have. This year, we face the four crises of the pandemic, the economic recession, the reckoning with systemic racism and the consequences of climate change.
This election is about creating a fairer, more just and more equitable country for all. It is our opportunity to build a strong, inclusive economy. It’s about electing real leadership at all levels of government to ensure we curb the spread of COVID-19, make healthcare a right and address our country’s other crises. This is about ensuring fair, unbiased federal courts to guarantee justice and transparency for millions of Americans.
We can invest in schools, states and localities to provide vital services, teach the next generation and keep public employees on the job.
But we can’t accomplish any of that if we can’t vote. Click here to confirm your voter registration status or get registered. Then share the link on social media to spread the word.
Click here to register to vote—then share this link on social media to spread the word.
The right to vote underpins every other right we have. This year, we face the four crises of the pandemic, the economic recession, the reckoning with systemic racism and the consequences of climate change.
This election is about creating a fairer, more just and more equitable country for all. It is our opportunity to build a strong, inclusive economy. It’s about electing real leadership at all levels of government to ensure we curb the spread of COVID-19, make healthcare a right and address our country’s other crises. This is about ensuring fair, unbiased federal courts to guarantee justice and transparency for millions of Americans.
We can invest in schools, states and localities to provide vital services, teach the next generation and keep public employees on the job.
But we can’t accomplish any of that if we can’t vote. Click here to confirm your voter registration status or get registered. Then share the link on social media to spread the word.
“We need in every bay and community a group of angelic troublemakers.”
― Bayard Rustin
WELCOME BACK TO SCHOOL!
Your commitment to educating our students during an unprecedented pandemic is unparalleled. As we make the transition back to in-person learning, remember to keep those masks on, keep your hands clean and sanitized and keep your social distance. Nothing replicates the in-person learning experience, and we cannot wait to welcome our students back!
social justice volunteer opportunity: NEW DATE! 8/31
GNTA LETTER TO COMMUNITY RE
DISTRICT REOPENING PLAN
Stop, drop and reaD: COVID EDITION
On July 29, more than 50 GNTA members volunteered at South Middle School for a community book exchanged entitled "Stop Drop and Read". Together, we collected thousands of books from generous community members, sanitized them, and organized the books by level, and then packaged them with other summer fun items donated by the GNTA. Almost 200 hundred students received a surprise summer fun tote bag delivered to their homes by staff volunteers. The community donations were so generous that hundreds of boxes of extra books were delivered to Book Fairies in Freeport, which is an organization that distributes books to those unable to access on their own.
It was a tremendous success thanks to the teachers, parents, and students working together -- precisely the template necessary for effective community engagement.
It was a tremendous success thanks to the teachers, parents, and students working together -- precisely the template necessary for effective community engagement.
GNTA's SOCIAL JUSTICE COMMITTEE MAKES A SPLASH IN NYSUT UNITED MAGAZINE
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UPDATED: GNTA'S COTTAGE VIRTUAL SUMMER HOURS! |
SMS ENL STEPS UP AND STEPS OUT
The South Middle School ENL program understands the need for exposure to English in order to be successful. Through the generous donations of English books from Port Washington and Great Neck families, Ms. Liz Piperno was able to create individual book bags containing 20-30 books. Each book bag contained books ranging from easy readers to complex chapter books. All three SMS ENL teachers- Ms. Liz Piperno, Ms. Jessie Sabino, and Ms. Kristin Klein- wrote individualized, handwritten notes to each student to also fill the students’ book bags. Ms. Liz Piperno personally delivered all reading care packages on Saturday, May 2, following all proper safety precautions. Despite the six feet distance, the smiles on the faces of both students and families were clearly visible. Keep reading and growing, SMS! Your teachers are thinking of you!
Find out more about GNTA's Social Justice Committee on its dedicated webpage HERE. New staff volunteers are welcome!
Great Neck Teachers: home at work
We may not be in the same room as our students, but Great Neck teachers are as committed as ever to provide a world-class education to our students.
GNTA GIVES BACK: GN TEACHERS MAKE SUBSTANTIAL DONATION TO ST.
Aloysius Interfaith Food Pantry
To help combat hunger in our own backyard, the GNTA, in conjunction with and support from the GNTA Social Justice Committee, has mae a $15,000.00 donation to Great Neck's only food pantry at St. Al's. This money will directly help feed local residents of all religious denominations during this time of crisis and uncertainty.
GNTA: We are all in this together.
GNTA: We are all in this together.
SUMMER SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS ARE NOW AVAILS (DUE DATE: MAY 1, 2020)
The Board of Education-Great Neck Teachers Association Agreement provides funds for summer scholarships. These scholarships will be available for courses or programs that are subject-matter oriented.
Interested teachers must apply for scholarships prior to May 1st.
Screening of applications will be done by the Summer Scholarship Committee and final selections will be made by May 15.
Please see the 3/30 email from Kim Semder with all of the requirements for application, stipulation, restrictions and rules for reimbursement.
Click below to access the Summer Scholarship application
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScP5meXoP-lRBp_jEdfVxUi7MCoCozbw0MPYH_ST8XfiWRz0A/viewform?usp=sf_link
Interested teachers must apply for scholarships prior to May 1st.
Screening of applications will be done by the Summer Scholarship Committee and final selections will be made by May 15.
Please see the 3/30 email from Kim Semder with all of the requirements for application, stipulation, restrictions and rules for reimbursement.
Click below to access the Summer Scholarship application
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScP5meXoP-lRBp_jEdfVxUi7MCoCozbw0MPYH_ST8XfiWRz0A/viewform?usp=sf_link
AN OPEN LETTER TO THE GN COMMUNITY ON THE CONTINUITY OF INSTRUCTION
| gnta_letter_to_community.pdf |
Sisters & Brothers,
Nothing is more important than the health, safety, and well-being of our members and the students we serve.
As you know, several school districts around New York State have been affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. We want you to know that GNTA is working with the district to make sure you have a safe and healthy workplace, that you are provided with critical and timely information, and that your rights are protected in the event the outbreak impacts our work.
To this end, we have been in close and regular contact with the central administration, and we’ll continue to do so throughout this emergency. This includes working to ensure that the district is following the recommended prevention and preparedness protocols, and that all the necessary emergency plans are in place.
In addition to this, NYSUT, our statewide union, has created a resource page to help you find critical information to protect yourself, your families, and the students in your care. You can find that information at http://nysut.org/coronavirus.
Finally, each of us has an important role to play in preventing the spread of germs, as per guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control:
The best strategy is to stay informed, follow basic precautions, and reach out to your health care provider if you have concerns regarding the health of your family.
Thank you for everything you do.
In solidarity,
Jim Daszenski
GNTA President
Nothing is more important than the health, safety, and well-being of our members and the students we serve.
As you know, several school districts around New York State have been affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. We want you to know that GNTA is working with the district to make sure you have a safe and healthy workplace, that you are provided with critical and timely information, and that your rights are protected in the event the outbreak impacts our work.
To this end, we have been in close and regular contact with the central administration, and we’ll continue to do so throughout this emergency. This includes working to ensure that the district is following the recommended prevention and preparedness protocols, and that all the necessary emergency plans are in place.
In addition to this, NYSUT, our statewide union, has created a resource page to help you find critical information to protect yourself, your families, and the students in your care. You can find that information at http://nysut.org/coronavirus.
Finally, each of us has an important role to play in preventing the spread of germs, as per guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control:
- Stay home, and keep your children at home when you or they are sick. This includes symptoms such as fever, cough/difficulty breathing and/or intestinal issues. Keep them home until their temperature is below 100 degrees for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication.
- Frequently wash hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water.
- Cough/sneeze into your sleeve (elbow) or a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.
- Within your own personal space, clean and disinfect frequently-touched objects and surfaces.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
The best strategy is to stay informed, follow basic precautions, and reach out to your health care provider if you have concerns regarding the health of your family.
Thank you for everything you do.
In solidarity,
Jim Daszenski
GNTA President
A CALL TO ARMS: WE NEED YOU TO
ATTEND THE BOE MEETING ON MARCH 2
Now is the time.
We need your support at the Board of Education Meeting on March 2nd!
This is the first public presentation of the budget. At preliminary meetings it has been indicated that the BOE is facing a 4.8 million dollar deficit for what they would like to budget and yet they are still unwilling to go to the maximum tax levy possible, which for Great Neck will be 3.6%.
Please support our students and fight for public education in Great Neck!
The current plan is unacceptable and they need to see and hear us!
Our next step is to make a visible statement at the March 2nd BOE meeting at North Middle School at 8:30pm.
We WANT to fill the meeting with 700 GNTA members.
We need your support at the Board of Education Meeting on March 2nd!
This is the first public presentation of the budget. At preliminary meetings it has been indicated that the BOE is facing a 4.8 million dollar deficit for what they would like to budget and yet they are still unwilling to go to the maximum tax levy possible, which for Great Neck will be 3.6%.
Please support our students and fight for public education in Great Neck!
The current plan is unacceptable and they need to see and hear us!
Our next step is to make a visible statement at the March 2nd BOE meeting at North Middle School at 8:30pm.
We WANT to fill the meeting with 700 GNTA members.
BOE APPROVES 2020-21 cALENDAR
GNTA's SOCIAL JUSTICE COMMITTEE IS MAKING WAVES and fostering change!
On January 13, 2020, over twenty Great Neck professionals gathered to discuss issues related to socio-economic disparity in our school community. Colleagues had the opportunity to share resources, discuss issues related to this disparity, and brainstorm possible solutions to the challenges we face as we support the students in our district.
If you'd like more information about GNTA's Social Justice committee, click here.
If you'd like more information about GNTA's Social Justice committee, click here.
SWD CERTIFICATION workshop update From NYSUT nassau regional office
Teachers with SWD certification must meet certain new requirements in order to maintain their certification. Among the new requirements is completion of certain courses. The Nassau regional office is arranging with NYSUT’s ELT to provide the Autism, DASA and Violence Prevention courses to assist teachers in fulfilling these certification requirements.
Two dates have been arranged for the AUTISM course:
February 27 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. in the Nassau RO Conference
https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=15191&I=3380590
March 31 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. in the Nassau RO Conference
https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=15191&I=3380595
Please inform your Special Education teachers who are affected by the new SOCE requirements about this opportunity as soon as possible!
Teachers who cannot attend on either date should be aware they can take this ELT course online for a fee of $70.
We are working on dates for the other courses and will inform you as soon as the registration sites are ready.
Two dates have been arranged for the AUTISM course:
February 27 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. in the Nassau RO Conference
https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=15191&I=3380590
March 31 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. in the Nassau RO Conference
https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=15191&I=3380595
Please inform your Special Education teachers who are affected by the new SOCE requirements about this opportunity as soon as possible!
Teachers who cannot attend on either date should be aware they can take this ELT course online for a fee of $70.
We are working on dates for the other courses and will inform you as soon as the registration sites are ready.
New York state retirement prep
See the memo below (two pages) and make sure to visit the retirement page of our website here! Remember, these resources are provided as a courtesy; GNTA is not in the business of retiring advice of any nature!
THE PROPOSED REVISIONS TO GNTA CONSTITUTION OVERWHELMINGLY PASS
Yesterday, the GNTA put revisions to Article I and Article III of the GNTA Constitution, to the general membership for a vote. Both revisions passed overwhelmingly, with the following vote tally:
PROPOSED REVISIONS TO ARTICLE I
YES 311
NO 1
PROPOSED REVISIONS TO ARTICLE III
YES 315
NO 1
Thanks to all members who cast their ballots yesterday. And a special thank you to all BRCs for facilitating the elections at the building levels, and Linda Gitman and the GNTA election committee for counting and authenticating the ballots.
PROPOSED REVISIONS TO ARTICLE I
YES 311
NO 1
PROPOSED REVISIONS TO ARTICLE III
YES 315
NO 1
Thanks to all members who cast their ballots yesterday. And a special thank you to all BRCs for facilitating the elections at the building levels, and Linda Gitman and the GNTA election committee for counting and authenticating the ballots.
GNTA SUMMER HOURS at the cottage
REMEMBERING OUR HISTORY: THE NORTH SYRACUSE TEACHER STRIKE OF 1976
Fellow unionists:
We just completed our 47th Annual Representative Assembly (RA), where we celebrated our strength and reaffirmed our commitment to building an even stronger and more united union.
Lately as I’ve been traveling around the state you may have heard me talk about and use the phrase “NYSUT’s next 50 years”. At NYSUT, we’re busy planning for the future, but we are also taking time to reflect on the sacrifices our members have made over the last four decades.
To borrow from an old proverb, I like to say, “I am standing in the shade of trees I did not plant.” Those that formed this great union almost 50 years ago put down strong roots. These roots have enabled us to weather our most recent storms and come out stronger.
As we look around our country, we see educators who’ve been on strike from West Virginia to Los Angeles. For our newest members these strikes may seem foreign, but they built the foundation of this great union.
During my remarks at the RA, I showed a video highlighting one strike in particular: the North Syracuse strike of 1976, led by our recently departed sister Sylvia Matousek. Not only did she serve time in prison defending our right to organize, but that strike actually resulted in the death of one of their members. The strike was a watershed moment in the fight for educators in New York, as captured in this tremendously moving video. I strongly encourage you to share it with your members now and again in September when our brothers and sisters return from summer break.
I remind you of our roots, our founders, lest we forget where we came from and what it took us to get here. It is a story of sacrifice: of the blood, sweat and tears of our foremothers and forefathers. It is a sacrifice that enables us all to sit in the shade of this great union today.
We aren’t going to take anything for granted. And we’re going to continue to grow stronger. Thank you for everything you and your colleagues to do support our movement and your communities.
In solidarity,
Andy Polotta
We just completed our 47th Annual Representative Assembly (RA), where we celebrated our strength and reaffirmed our commitment to building an even stronger and more united union.
Lately as I’ve been traveling around the state you may have heard me talk about and use the phrase “NYSUT’s next 50 years”. At NYSUT, we’re busy planning for the future, but we are also taking time to reflect on the sacrifices our members have made over the last four decades.
To borrow from an old proverb, I like to say, “I am standing in the shade of trees I did not plant.” Those that formed this great union almost 50 years ago put down strong roots. These roots have enabled us to weather our most recent storms and come out stronger.
As we look around our country, we see educators who’ve been on strike from West Virginia to Los Angeles. For our newest members these strikes may seem foreign, but they built the foundation of this great union.
During my remarks at the RA, I showed a video highlighting one strike in particular: the North Syracuse strike of 1976, led by our recently departed sister Sylvia Matousek. Not only did she serve time in prison defending our right to organize, but that strike actually resulted in the death of one of their members. The strike was a watershed moment in the fight for educators in New York, as captured in this tremendously moving video. I strongly encourage you to share it with your members now and again in September when our brothers and sisters return from summer break.
I remind you of our roots, our founders, lest we forget where we came from and what it took us to get here. It is a story of sacrifice: of the blood, sweat and tears of our foremothers and forefathers. It is a sacrifice that enables us all to sit in the shade of this great union today.
We aren’t going to take anything for granted. And we’re going to continue to grow stronger. Thank you for everything you and your colleagues to do support our movement and your communities.
In solidarity,
Andy Polotta
SIGN MY UP: NYSUT SUMMER WORKSHOP SCHEDULE -- free for members!
The 2019-20 GNTA Calendar is HERE!
NYSTRS DELEGATE ELECTION RESULTS
The new nominated delegates/alternates have been entered into the NYSTRS for the delegate election year 2019. This term is for two years.
The new Delegates/Alternates are:
Frank Bua/Patricia Crisafulli
Jeffrey Bernstein/Cindy Pavlic
Jennifer Snyder/Madeline Dressner
Luci Legotti/Lisa Hammond
This election is administered by the district, not GNTA. For more information about the delegates and the annual convention, check out or retirement page on this site for unofficial info, or head to your own NYSTRS account for the real deal.
The new Delegates/Alternates are:
Frank Bua/Patricia Crisafulli
Jeffrey Bernstein/Cindy Pavlic
Jennifer Snyder/Madeline Dressner
Luci Legotti/Lisa Hammond
This election is administered by the district, not GNTA. For more information about the delegates and the annual convention, check out or retirement page on this site for unofficial info, or head to your own NYSTRS account for the real deal.
NYSUT HOSTS EARLY CAREER SOCIAL!
VOTE-COPE: your CONTRIBUTIONS are critical to support pro-education politicians and policies!
EMPLOYER 2019-20 PENSION COSTS TO DROP
Welcome news for New York public schools and the taxpayers who fund them: Pension costs are expected to drop about 17% for the 2019-20 school year.
At the January meeting of the NYSTRS Board, the System’s Actuary estimated that the employer contribution rate (ECR) for the 2019-20 school year will be 8.86% of payroll, down from the 10.62% rate to be applied to 2018-19 payroll. The final rate will be adopted by the Retirement Board at its July 31 meeting.
Contributions associated with the estimated 8.86% rate will be collected in fall 2020, but employers are alerted well in advance to assist with budgeting.
The ECR is determined annually through an actuarial valuation of NYSTRS’ assets and liabilities. These contributions have been collected without fail throughout the System’s history, keeping NYSTRS among the best-funded and most-secure plans in the country. The plan’s funded ratio is nearly 100% - well above the national average of 73%.
However, the Actuary also noted that because investment returns are a major component of ECR calculations and recent returns have been lower than expected, future ECRs will likely be higher. In an administrative bulletin to NYSTRS-participating employers announcing the estimated 8.86% rate, school officials were cautioned to keep this in mind when developing future budgets.
Over the past 30 years, investment income has accounted for 85% of NYSTRS’ income. Member and employer contributions made up the other 15%.
At the January meeting of the NYSTRS Board, the System’s Actuary estimated that the employer contribution rate (ECR) for the 2019-20 school year will be 8.86% of payroll, down from the 10.62% rate to be applied to 2018-19 payroll. The final rate will be adopted by the Retirement Board at its July 31 meeting.
Contributions associated with the estimated 8.86% rate will be collected in fall 2020, but employers are alerted well in advance to assist with budgeting.
The ECR is determined annually through an actuarial valuation of NYSTRS’ assets and liabilities. These contributions have been collected without fail throughout the System’s history, keeping NYSTRS among the best-funded and most-secure plans in the country. The plan’s funded ratio is nearly 100% - well above the national average of 73%.
However, the Actuary also noted that because investment returns are a major component of ECR calculations and recent returns have been lower than expected, future ECRs will likely be higher. In an administrative bulletin to NYSTRS-participating employers announcing the estimated 8.86% rate, school officials were cautioned to keep this in mind when developing future budgets.
Over the past 30 years, investment income has accounted for 85% of NYSTRS’ income. Member and employer contributions made up the other 15%.
Greetings Sisters and Brothers,
One of GNTA's greatest strengths is the compassion, commitment, and dedication our membership demonstrates in their daily work with children and their families. As part of our LAP initiative we are interested in creating opportunities for members to engage in activities that support our values of equality, equity, and making a difference in the lives of others.
In order for us to begin this venture we need to know what you are passionate about. Please take the time to complete the attached survey.
https://goo.gl/forms/Pik1OxPnxBqs0vKv2
In Solidarity,
Social Justice Committee
Jennifer Snyder (Chair), Maddie Dressner, and Joan Petralia-Greenberg
One of GNTA's greatest strengths is the compassion, commitment, and dedication our membership demonstrates in their daily work with children and their families. As part of our LAP initiative we are interested in creating opportunities for members to engage in activities that support our values of equality, equity, and making a difference in the lives of others.
In order for us to begin this venture we need to know what you are passionate about. Please take the time to complete the attached survey.
https://goo.gl/forms/Pik1OxPnxBqs0vKv2
In Solidarity,
Social Justice Committee
Jennifer Snyder (Chair), Maddie Dressner, and Joan Petralia-Greenberg
BiG changes to empire plan in 2019
From the files of "don't shoot the messenger," The Empire Plan has adjusted some of the copay fees that we pay out-of-pocket, and raised the level of our combined annual deductibles. Happy New Year.
Some key changes to note:
In-network doctor's visit now has a $25 copay.
In-network urgent care visit now has a $30 copay.
Emergency Department visit now has a $100 copay.
Enrollee combined annual deductible $1250, per dependent.
Please read the bulletin below to find out all the details.
Some key changes to note:
In-network doctor's visit now has a $25 copay.
In-network urgent care visit now has a $30 copay.
Emergency Department visit now has a $100 copay.
Enrollee combined annual deductible $1250, per dependent.
Please read the bulletin below to find out all the details.
EST. RANGE DOWN FOR FOR 2019-2020 ECR
Dinapoli: Tax cap set at 2 percent
Property tax levy growth for local governments with fiscal years that close on Dec. 31 will be capped at 2 percent for the 2019 fiscal year, according to State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. This figure affects the tax cap calculations for all counties, towns, fire districts, 44 cities and 10 villages.
"For these local governments, allowable levy growth will be 2 percent for the first time since 2013," DiNapoli said. "Despite the possibility of increased tax revenue, municipal budgets will still be vulnerable to rising fixed costs and potential federal funding cuts. Local officials should proceed cautiously when crafting their spending plans for next year."
The tax cap, which first applied to local governments in 2012, limits tax levy increases to the lesser of the rate of inflation or 2 percent with some exceptions, including a provision that allows municipalities to override the tax cap.
During the 2014 through 2018 fiscal years, municipalities with a fiscal year ending on Dec. 31 had their levy growth capped at less than 2 percent.
For a list of allowable levy growth factors for all local governments, visit: http://www.osc.state.ny.us/localgov/realprop/pdf/inflation_allowablegrowthfactors.pdf
Find out how your government money is spent at Open Book New York. Track municipal spending, the state's 145,000 contracts, billions in state payments and public authority data. Visit the Reading Room for contract FOIL requests, bid protest decisions and commonly requested data.
"For these local governments, allowable levy growth will be 2 percent for the first time since 2013," DiNapoli said. "Despite the possibility of increased tax revenue, municipal budgets will still be vulnerable to rising fixed costs and potential federal funding cuts. Local officials should proceed cautiously when crafting their spending plans for next year."
The tax cap, which first applied to local governments in 2012, limits tax levy increases to the lesser of the rate of inflation or 2 percent with some exceptions, including a provision that allows municipalities to override the tax cap.
During the 2014 through 2018 fiscal years, municipalities with a fiscal year ending on Dec. 31 had their levy growth capped at less than 2 percent.
For a list of allowable levy growth factors for all local governments, visit: http://www.osc.state.ny.us/localgov/realprop/pdf/inflation_allowablegrowthfactors.pdf
Find out how your government money is spent at Open Book New York. Track municipal spending, the state's 145,000 contracts, billions in state payments and public authority data. Visit the Reading Room for contract FOIL requests, bid protest decisions and commonly requested data.
SITE UPDATES
RETIREMENT: The results of district election for NYSTRS convention delegates have been posted!
Updated 5.10.19
CALENDAR: The GNTA MAY Calendar has been posted!
Updated 4.30.19
ELECTIONS: The results of the contested election for the GNTA EB position of Vice President for Contract Improvement have been posted!
Updated 4.28.19
New Members: The Fall 2018 New Members Bulletin has been posted!
Updated 1.02.19
CALENDAR: The GNTA JANUARY Calendar has been posted!
Updated 12.31.18
BLOG: Read GNTA EB member Luci Legotti's NYSUT RA Report!
Updated 6.19.18
BLOG: NYSUT summer workshops open to GNTA members.
Updated 6.19.18
PAC/IOC: Photos and recollections from the first GNTA Color Day!
Updated 6.19.18
BLOG: The GNTA Celebrates its retirees at Westbury Manor!
Updated 5.22.18
BLOG: The Supreme Court just issued a blow to Workers' Rights, and no, this isn't the JANUS case.
Updated 5.22.18
CALENDAR: The GNTA June Calendar has been posted!
Updated 5.22.18
FORMS: GNTA Retiree/Para forms have been updated.
Updated 5.11.18
RETIREMENT: The results of district election for NYSTRS convention delegates have been posted!
Updated 5.10.19
CALENDAR: The GNTA MAY Calendar has been posted!
Updated 4.30.19
ELECTIONS: The results of the contested election for the GNTA EB position of Vice President for Contract Improvement have been posted!
Updated 4.28.19
New Members: The Fall 2018 New Members Bulletin has been posted!
Updated 1.02.19
CALENDAR: The GNTA JANUARY Calendar has been posted!
Updated 12.31.18
BLOG: Read GNTA EB member Luci Legotti's NYSUT RA Report!
Updated 6.19.18
BLOG: NYSUT summer workshops open to GNTA members.
Updated 6.19.18
PAC/IOC: Photos and recollections from the first GNTA Color Day!
Updated 6.19.18
BLOG: The GNTA Celebrates its retirees at Westbury Manor!
Updated 5.22.18
BLOG: The Supreme Court just issued a blow to Workers' Rights, and no, this isn't the JANUS case.
Updated 5.22.18
CALENDAR: The GNTA June Calendar has been posted!
Updated 5.22.18
FORMS: GNTA Retiree/Para forms have been updated.
Updated 5.11.18
Great Neck Teachers Association
NYSUT, AFT-NEA, AFL-CIO #2686
The Cottage • 343 Lakeville Road
Great Neck, NY 11020
gnteachers@gmail.com • @GNTeachers
(516) 829-9070
NYSUT, AFT-NEA, AFL-CIO #2686
The Cottage • 343 Lakeville Road
Great Neck, NY 11020
gnteachers@gmail.com • @GNTeachers
(516) 829-9070
DID YOU KNOW...
You can get forms for dental, excess medical, prescription drug and other claims by clicking on the INFORMATION menu at the top of this page and then clicking on the "FORMS"link?
You can get forms for dental, excess medical, prescription drug and other claims by clicking on the INFORMATION menu at the top of this page and then clicking on the "FORMS"link?
WHOM CAN I CONTACT IF I HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT...
GNTA Benefits (excess medical: dental, optical)
Dickinson Group, LLC
(877) 347-7225
The Contract, APPR, or My Professional Rights & Responsibilities (PR&R)
Your building’s BRC Chairperson
MLP or Professional Development
Your building’s BCG Chairperson
Payroll
Elena Ip
pip@greatneck.k12.ny.us
(516) 441-4029
Human Resources
Kristin Smith, Senior Personnel Clerk
ksmith@greatneck.k12.ny.us
(516) 441-4057
GNTA Benefits (excess medical: dental, optical)
Dickinson Group, LLC
(877) 347-7225
The Contract, APPR, or My Professional Rights & Responsibilities (PR&R)
Your building’s BRC Chairperson
MLP or Professional Development
Your building’s BCG Chairperson
Payroll
Elena Ip
pip@greatneck.k12.ny.us
(516) 441-4029
Human Resources
Kristin Smith, Senior Personnel Clerk
ksmith@greatneck.k12.ny.us
(516) 441-4057