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SpeakOut The official publication for the members of
the Patchogue-Medford Congress of Teachers
P.O. Box 539, Patchogue, NY 11772
Phone: 631-475-8515 E-mail: union@pmct.org Fax: 631-475-8517
December 2006 PMCT on the world wide web: http://www.pmct.org Vol. 31 Number 4
Issues: Resolved and Unresolved we don’t need teacher chaperones, or for that matter a well staffed
Before we know it, the month of January will be here and
the half way point of the school year will be upon us. As we ap- security program. These cuts in paid teacher chaperones and secu-
proach the middle of the school year, we are mindful that student rity officers result from budget cuts.
assessments run rampant throughout all of our grade levels. From While on the topic of chaperones, it is important that we rec-
midterms and Regents on the high school level to ELA and math ognize we are not in the business of hiring chaperones with club/
assessments in the middle school and elementary levels, we face activity funds nor are the PTA’s in the business of hiring chaper-
a time when many of us feel an added burden and level of stress. ones. The school district is the only entity that can hire people and
This burden can easily drive one to a breaking point, but we must pay for their employees. If you have sought out teachers to hire for
remember that if we do our jobs and we do them well, then all other an event with funds from the club activity or from the PTA, you are
aspects of our craft and trade will benefit those who count the most, in serious violation of labor and school law and this practice needs
our students. to cease immediately.
You should know that members of the executive board have This past November 7th had terrific results in the elections. Lo-
been meeting consistently with administrators. We have been en- cally, we all should be happy with the victories of Patricia Edding-
gaged in many topics of discussion, and I believe we have come ton and Caesar Trunzo. These two leaders have done a terrific job
to an agreement on many of the issues. One issue I am pleased to Continued on page 3
Inside this issue:
report that we have come into agreement is the acceptable practice
of charging teachers a percentage of the work day such as .2, or .3,
or .6, etc. for a fraction of an absence during the work day instead
of the unilateral change in working conditions that would charge
all teachers either a half day or a full day for any time missed. Meeting Albert Shanker page 4
While we made the argument on behalf of our members that the
fair system has long been in practice for many years, it does come
at a price. The administration has said then the principals will no Our Participation
longer hold discretion in decisions pertaining to a teacher absence
and the absence will be charged according to a strict percentage of
in the
the time that is missed. We all welcome this because it is the fair New York State English Council
and right decision and an appropriate practice. Also, we all should
be forewarned administration will be strict on contractual work page7
time. This is an area where there is no discussion because we are
held to the 7 hour and 12 minute time work day that is part of our
contractual agreement. We all should be aware of what our work Reports:
day entails and hold ourselves to that standard in the minimum.
There are a few issues that are still unresolved. On the elemen- Grievance page 3
tary level, there are schools where the special area duty teachers are Elementary page 4
working two duties. The district argues this is the fallout of safety
and security of our students. We are probably heading towards Conference page 10
arbitration on this issue to seek indemnification. Also, paid teacher
chaperones are still a major question. I make the argument how
can the district make statements that safety and security are an is-
sue when it comes to our students, and then in the same breath, say
P. M. C. T. EXECUTIVE 2006-2007 BUILDING Treasurer's report
COMMITTEE REPRESENTATIVES
PRESIDENT (&DELEGATE) HIGH SCHOOL
Paul Pecorale Joe Baglio, Beth Claps,Ellen DiFazio,
Patrick Godfrey, Nancy Goldfader,
Frank Juzwiak Jr., Tom Kelly,
VICE-PRESIDENT (&DELEGATE) Fran Kosiczky
Beth Warnken Lisa Perera, Skip Rasso,
Keiran Sweeney,
ELEMENTARY VICE-PRESIDENT Michelle Thoden, Ralph Towlen
Jeff Peterson MIDDLE SCHOOLS
SAXTON
MIDDLE SCHOOL VICE-PRESIDENT Matthew Krawczyk,
Jeanne Kessel Debbie McGrath,Michael Swezey, Barbara
Tyler
OREGON
HIGH SCHOOL VICE-PRESIDENT Terry Breen, Maureen Desmond,
Gail Shafer Anthony Frascogna,
John Passannante
TREASURER (&DELEGATE) SOUTH OCEAN
Brian O’Neill Jessica Klaric, Diane Peterson,
Jeanne Smith
2 SECRETARY (&DELEGATE)
Beth Warnken
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
BARTON
Ellen Quatrale, Eileen Scott,
CHAIRPERSONS-MEMBERSHIP Kevin Toolan
BAY
LaNel Kavander Linda Locantore,
S p e a k O u t
Cheryl Baker Claudia Rais Van Florcke
CANAAN
CHAIRPERSONS-COMMUNITY Karen Eten, Sherri Nevola,
OUTREACH Kim Wolf
EAGLE
Jackie Nolan Lisa Alberto, Lauren Lindsay
Linda Nowicki Susan Stahl
Student Citizens’Awards MEDFORD
Kathy Murphy Vicki Atkins,Melinda Mclaughlin,
Rebecca Tyler
RIVER
CHAIRPERSONS-PUBLICATIONS Sharon Deland, Cynthia Zegel
Ellen DiFazio TREMONT
Tom Kowell June Gagnon, Maria Grimaldi,
CHAIRPERSON-POLITICAL ACTION Karol Boddy-Wallace
Eileen Beebe
Health & Safety
PLEASE BE SMART:
If you have a health
PMRE Representative Assembly or safety complaint or concern
Jane Conetta, Carol LaBarbera in the workplace have your
Irene Lawrence, Marge Quinn, building representative contact
Ellen Siegel the Union Office:
475-8515.
Continued from page one
of voting 100% on the issues which affect us all. Governor-elect
Spitzer should be better for everyone on school funding. We await
with interest the Democratic Party majority in both the House of
Representatives and the Senate to see how changes in No Child
Left Behind, funding of IDEA, and other labor laws play out.
We helped elect these officials, and we should and will demand
changes for the betterment of our public schools, retirement is-
sues, health care, and the labor movement. The Patchogue-Medford Congress of Teachers
With the holiday season upon us, the Executive Board of the
Executive Board along with the Outreach Commit-
PMCT and I would like to extend our best wishes for happiness
and good health with the best of fortunes to all in the upcom-
tee would like to thank the following people who
ing New Year. This time of year is a season to enjoy, and we all contributed blood at our Annual PMCT Blood Drive
should appreciate being rejuvenated by rest, relaxation and the that was held at Patchogue-Medford High School on
company of good friends and family. Happy Holidays everyone! November 6, 2006:
In Solidarity,
Paul NAME
Attendance Sheet Update Tracey Baer
Joseph Baglio
David Gervino
Nancy Goldfader
The Office of Human Resources has received many disputed at- Gary Bavosa Seth Haugland
tendance records. Katherine Benincasa Robert MacDevitt
Paul has had a conversation with the HR office and they have yet to Lori Botta Pat McKenna
respond to any of these concerns. They have stated they will get to William McNally
Terry Breen
them soon and you should receive a response to the dispute.
Kerri Bruckner Nicole Mistretta
Grievance Report Vincent Bruno Kathleen Murphy
Maureen Campanelli Sue Noble
3
Lunch detention duty has been discontinued. However, we have Francis Carroylo Linda Nowicki
not received any written agreement from the District. Arbitration Cathleen Cavanagh Melissa O’Brien
papers were submitted on 10/5/06. Andrew Oreste
Dawn Ciccone
Bernice Cunningham Scott Parris
S p e a k O u t
PM Detention has only been negotiated for Oregon Middle School.
Anyone who is being asked to work a differentiated schedule in Sharon Deland Susan Radoulovitch
any other school should contact Beth Warnken. Barbara Doucette Claudia Rais Van Florcke
Suzanne Doucette Kevin Ray
The Class Action Grievance filed on behalf of teachers who were Stephanie Fallica Lisa Santiago
involuntarily transferred at the beginning of this school year has Kelly Farmer Brittany Silver
been settled. In the future, the District will furnish the transferred Cheryl Flannigan Jean Marie Smith
teachers with options, if they are available, and the Congress will Gail Fiorelli Amanda Strong
be notified in advance of the transfers. However, no written agree- John Fren Kevin Vann
ment has been received from the District. Arbitration papers were Maureen Whittaker
Bridgette Gallagher
submitted on 10/5/06.
Jennifer Gatz Wendy Wysowski
Paul and Beth continue to have conversations with administration
regarding special area teachers assigned a double duty. Arbitration In all 38 pints of blood were collected from 46
papers are pending. people. We thank you for your support of this
worthwhile cause.
The Class Action Grievance filed on behalf of the Social Stud-
ies Department regarding the posting of available positions was dures will be followed. However, no written agreement
settled. In the future, all vacant/available positions will be posted has been received from the District.
and all procedures will be followed. However, no written agree-
ment has been received from the District. The Level 2 Grievance filed on behalf of a social studies
teacher who was not given the opportunity to apply for a
The Level 2 Grievance on notification of available positions to vacant position was settled. The District acknowledged
the Congress was settled. In the future, the PMCT will be notified any wrongdoing and the teacher will be given the oppor-
in writing of any and all vacant/available positions and all proce- tunity to apply for the position.
Elementary Report by Jeff Peterson – Elementary Level Vice-President
As I sit back and reflect on another start of a new school It is the little things that can make some of these stresses a bit
year and the challenges that it brings, I am proud to be an easier to deal with. For example, uniformity across the district
elementary teacher in the Patchogue-Medford School Dis- in all seven elementary buildings makes it easier to know that
trict. Every year, we are ready and eager as new groups of we are all in the same boat. Having the same amount of time
students enter through our doors and into our classrooms, for PDP and extra-help sessions is very important and I must
to embark on learning the foundations of education that thank Beth Warnken for working to make this a reality. In ad-
will take these same children through middle school, high dition, a start time of 9:15 across all seven buildings is also
school, and life. We all should be very proud of the time very helpful as those few minutes after PDP and before the
and effort that each and every one of us devotes to setting students arrive are so precious for us to do essential things,
up the classrooms, planning our curriculum, and preparing like going to the bathroom, finish setting up the classroom,
our thoughts and strategies for a new school year. It is an writing a morning message, and getting mentally prepared for
ambitious endeavor that occurs every year at the end of the start of the day so that we are truly ready for the students.
August into the beginning of September. The amount of Once again, I would like to thank both Paul and Beth for being
preparation for a school teacher is incredible, not only at a voice of the elementary school teachers so that we can have
the beginning of the school year, but throughout the entire those few minutes to prepare.
year.
I would like to welcome all of our new members to the district
With that in mind, I am also aware of all the challenges that and the new principals at the elementary level. We have always
many of us face day to day in the classroom. We are, many had a great, working relationship between the teachers and
times, asked to do so much more than just be a teacher of principals. It has been a relationship marked with open dia-
academics. With a lack of federal funding and state fund- logue, discussion, and a general respect that we are all here for
ing for various programs, we are often asked to do so much the students. These conversations have led to solutions and a
4 more with much less. It is unfortunate that at a time of such wonderful working environment in the elementary buildings. I
high-stakes testing, that the demands on both teachers and look forward to seeing this relationship continue in the future.
students can be increased with less resources. At the same
time, teachers tell me how stressful this can be when being Stay involved! There are many ways to support the PMCT and
pulled in so many directions. Add onto this greater class the community of Patchogue and Medford. Get to know your
sizes, and it can be very trying to successfully and fully building representatives and your Outreach reps in your build-
S p e a k O u t
meet all of the needs of every student in any given day. ings. Submit articles and photographs to Ellen DiFazio at the
Fortunately, we have a large group of dedicated profession- High School for Publications showing all of the great things
als willing to put in the time for our students to meet their you are doing in your schools. I wish everyone a happy and
needs. healthy holiday season!
Meeting Albert Shanker step one, yet a new teacher just hired was brought in on step
three. Due to these gross inequities and the government’s
By Christina Paino unwillingness to negotiate, both unions called for a strike that
I began my teaching career in the territory of the began on Feb. 1st of 1976.
U.S. Virgin Islands on the island of St. Croix. Since the Both unions were affiliated with the American Federation of
Virgin Islands are a U.S. territory, we were government Teachers (the AFT), whose president at the time was the well-
employees. I taught at a large junior high school in the known Albert Shanker. Shanker had been instrumental in the
town of Christiansted, on the eastern end of the island. In NYC teacher strikes of the late 1960’s and was instrumental
my second year there, the teachers contract had expired and in securing many rights and benefits for teachers in the United
the government was unwilling to negotiate. There were 2 Federation of Teachers (NYC). After 3 long weeks of a very
unions at the time: the St. Thomas-St. John Federation of acrimonious strike with no end in sight, Shanker flew down
Teachers and the St. Croix Federation of Teachers. Both to St. Croix and St. Thomas to meet with the membership to
unions worked closely together advocating for the rights of show his support and to urge us to remain strong in spite of
teachers even though there were 40 miles of Caribbean Sea the government’s efforts to “break” the unions.
separating the islands. The meeting was held on a Sunday morning at a local movie
Since the contract had expired, the government theater with Al Shanker being the keynote speaker. As we
payroll office was not offering any step increments to gathered in the parking lot before the meeting, he came right
teachers, yet they were bringing in new teachers “on step”. into the groups of teacher and not only shook hands with each
So you could have been there for 3 years and still be on
Continued on page 6
5
S p e a k O u t
PMCT HAPPENINGS Meeting Albert Shanker - Continued from page 5
and everyone of us, but personally encouraged each of us to be
the best teachers we could be while also working for teachers
and student’s rights. As the meeting began inside the theater, his
December 4th Superintendent’s speech was so moving and uplifting that you knew immediately
Forum @ Medford why we became teachers in the first place and also understood the
December 6th PMCT Rep Assembly need to organize for equity in the workplace.
The next day was a Monday and there, bright and early, on the
Dinner/Meeting picket lines with us for the entire day was Al Shanker, holding a
December 7th PMRE Holiday huge AFT sign and showing his support and solidarity with our
Luncheon cause. The strike dragged on for 6 weeks eventually going into
December 11th-15th PMCT binding arbitration with the arbitrator being sent from the federal
government. The arbitrator ruled that every member should be
Communications Week placed on their correct step, which was a huge victory for the
December 12th Ed#22 Meeting unions at that time.
December 18th Board of Education However, we were federal employees who are not eligible to
strike. So once we went back to work, we paid fines of 2 days
Meeting @ So. Ocean pay for everyday we were on strike. That was a hefty sum con-
December 20th Executive Board sidering we were already out of work for the past 6 weeks.
Meeting & Holiday As a teacher, I saw first hand the influence of Al Shanker, a life-
long advocate for teacher’s rights and benefits. Being on strike,
Dinner especially a teacher’s strike, is a very difficult decision to make.
December 25th- Due to the circumstances at the time and a very dedicated teacher
January 2nd Holiday Recess advocate in Albert Shanker, our unions in the Virgin Islands were
successful and still exist today with outstanding benefits and
SEASON’S GREETINGS! rights for teachers. Many teachers in the USVI today still credit
the strike of 1976 as the beginning of a better educational system
6 for the children of the 3 islands.
NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND---THE FOOTBALL VERSION
ALL KIDS WILL PLAY FOOTBALL AT A PROFICIENT LEVEL!
S p e a k O u t
1. All teams must make the state playoffs and all 3. Talented players will be asked to workout on their own, without
MUST win the championship. If a team does not win instruction. This is because the coaches will be using all their in-
the championship, they will be on probation until they structional time with the athletes who aren’t interested in football,
are the champions, and coaches will be held account- have limited athletic ability or whose parents don’t like football.
able. If, after two years, they have not won the cham-
pionship their footballs and equipment will be taken 4. Games will be played year round, but statistics will only be
away UNTIL they do win the championship. kept in the 4th, 8th, and 11th game. It will create a New Age of
Sports where every school is expected to have the same level
2. All kids will be expected to have the same football of talent and all teams will reach the same minimum goals. If
skills at the same time even if they do not have the no child gets ahead, then no child gets left behind. If parents do
same conditions or opportunities to practice on their not like this new law, they are encouraged to vote for vouchers
own. NO exceptions will be made for lack of interest and support private schools that can screen out the non-athletes
in football, a desire to perform athletically, or genetic and prevent their children from having to go to school with bad
abilities or disabilities of themselves or their parents. football players.
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Congratulations!
to the following newly appointed PMCT Our Participation
in the
Committee Chairpersons:
Communications
- Ellen DiFazio
-
Membership
Tom Kowell New York State
-
-
Cheryl Baker
LaNel Kavander
English Council
Outreach
- Jackie Nolan
- Terry Silver
Political Action
- Eileen Beebe
These chairpersons have been appointed as of
October 2006 and each will serve a two year term.
7
Angela D’Amico, Christine McElwee
and Diane Schatz-Peterson
S p e a k O u t
On October 20, 2006 Angela D’Amico (High
School Reading), Christine McElwee (High
School Reading) and Diane Schatz-Peterson (So.
On his way to becoming Ocean Middle School Reading) presented a work-
shop at the New York State English Council’s
an Eagle Scout 56th Annual Conference. Their topic was, Build-
ing Tolerance in the Multicultural Classroom-A
NICE ONE! Project for Secondary Students. In their work-
Patricia Stavdal’s (a teacher at the High School) shop, they demonstrated ways to promote toler-
son, James, from Troop #79 in Yaphank, is on ance in the classroom by having students research
his way to becoming an Eagle Scout, the highest their own cultural backgrounds through the use
honor in scouting. James delighted the residents of Culture Grams, family interviews, and online
of Cedar Lodge Nursing Home in Center Moriches resources. They also shared ways to promote
with his project of making handicapped accessible conversation amongst the students by encouraging
picnic tables. James not only designed the tables, them to share the information about themselves,
but raised the money and constructed them as thus alleviating classroom tensions. Their materi-
well. The residents of the nursing home were very als were obtained through a MESTRACT grant
pleased with his project. and through www.teachingtolerance.org. This
Congratulations on a job well done! workshop was very well received.
We thank them for all their hard work and a job
well done!
Social Studies class at Saxton. There is contract language
Executive Board Meeting Minutes to address this issue. Paul will look into this issue. Jeanne
also reported that principals are requiring teachers to sign in
Representative Assembly at Back-to-School night. Paul reiterated that teachers attend
June 7, 2006 Back-to-School night as a courtesy, and therefore should
not be reprimanded for not attending. However, teachers
New Business: Andy reminded the RA of the PMCT Re- are encouraged to attend. Gail asked about the proposed
tirement Party on June 16, 2006 at the Bellport Country superintendent’s conference day on February 6th. There will
Club. Andy reported on the Memorandum of Agreement be three superintendent’s conference days for the second-
on the half day conference day. It is still in the hands of ary school, and four superintendent’s conference days for
the attorneys because of a stipulation. Middle school elementary schools. Superintendent’s conference days count
representatives pointed out that the 8th Grade Moving- as days of instruction. Gail reported that some high school
Up Ceremonies are scheduled for the night of June 21st. computer courses have rosters larger than the number of
Postcards in support of the budget will be mailed out to computers available. Gail discussed the color coded passes
the community. Volunteers are needed to make phone calls being issued in the high school. Gail asked about the progress
and walk through out the community touching base with in class size equity. Gail reported on the moldy and corroded
NYSUT members. Andy discussed his decision to retire. ceilings in several areas of the high school. Gail asked about
Andy reported on the seniority list. Andy distributed data 4/6 split situations. Any teacher with this type of schedule
sheets to the RA. These data sheets will help to update should contact Paul. Gail discussed a bus situation. Gail
our records. Paul reported on Special Ed issues. He met also discussed Inclusion compliance issues. Paul asked that
with Marj Bernstein. Paul discussed the particulars on the teachers forward specific facts on their situation. The lack of
“Walk Throughout the Community.” He distributed lawn training and problems with E-School were discussed. Frank
signs and phone banks are set up. asked about the memo regarding badges. Paul reported
that he has a block of Islander tickets available for $25.00.
Actions Taken: It was moved to accept the 2006-2007 Terri reported that the flyers for the Making Strides Walk are
budget and to amend the PMCT Constitution to read ready. Terri and Jackie will be at the Suffolk NYSUT tent.
“NYSUT/NEA NY and its national affiliates.” The blood drive is scheduled for November 6th. Jeff asked if
information regarding grants that teacher’s have been award-
Executive Board Meeting ed be shared in SpeakOut and Connections. Ellen reported
September 27, 2006 that the format of Connections will be changed to include
8 New Business: Paul congratulated LaNel Kavander who
more pictures and white paper. They are considering color
pictures. They are researching prices to present at the next
is the new NYSUT/AFT Delegate. Paul appointed Terry meeting. Frank discussed updating the mailing list. Teachers
Silver as the Outreach Co-Chairperson. Paul discussed are encouraged to forward pictures of special events. Eileen
election procedures. Paul has contacted D. Gamberg reported that Vote/Cope reminders have been sent. Eileen is
regarding MESTRACT grants. Paul discussed the nego- working on the voting list. Paul is developing a personalize
tiations survey. Paul announced the LIPC essay contest letter informing people of endorsed candidates.
S p e a k O u t
submissions are due by November 6th. Paul reported on
November election and phone banks. Paul discussed NYS Actions Taken: It was moved to increase Cheryl Flannigan’s
retirement convention delegates. Beth presented informa- salary and to also increase her IRA contribution to 6%, for
tion from the Long Island Federation of Labor meeting. PMCT to pay for the printing and shipping of the shirts not
Delegates are Paul, Beth, Eileen, and Linda. Discussion to exceed $480, and to retain Jane Conetta as consultant not
was held regarding Instructional Support Program (ISP). to exceed $2000.00.
Paul reported that November 7th is a school holiday. Paul
requested that teachers forward information about changes Executive Board Meeting
in chaperone coverage in their buildings. Beth reported October 11, 2006
we are going to be filing a Level 1 grievance on behalf of
teachers who have been assigned a double duty. Beth is New Business: Discussion was held regarding teachers as-
considering filing improper practice charges against the signed a 6th teaching period for pay. Paul reported that class
district regarding chaperones, on behalf of the coaches sizes are now equitable. Paul and Jeff discussed elementary
who will not be paid the first half of their coaching stipend representation on the negotiation committee. Questions were
on September 29th and the Instructional Support Program asked regarding interns. Jeannie reported on BEDS forms.
at the high school. We are awaiting a response from the Jeannie also reported that a traveling teacher has not been
Superintendent for the Level II grievances that were filed provided sufficient travel time. Jeannie asked about the math
on behalf of the teachers assigned the newly created lunch plus program. The program is not considered a prep and,
detention duty. Jeff had questions about inclusion teachers therefore, lesson plans do not need to be submitted. Jeannie
being assigned duties. Inclusion teachers should not be as- reported that keys are still missing for classrooms. Jeannie
signed duty. Jeff asked about the results of the discussion also reported that phone cords are too short. Work orders
with D. Gamberg regarding student arrival and dismissal. should be submitted for all repairs. Jeannie also reported that
Jeff and Beth have proposed a schedule for Parent Teacher an issue with progress reports has been resolved. Teachers
Conferences. Beth will discuss this issue with David. Jeff have three days to complete progress reports. Jeannie asked
is writing a NEA grant to purchase books for distribution about the Xerox paper allotment. The district distributed Xe-
at teacher conferences. Jeanne discussed the inequity rox paper on a per student basis. Jeannie reported that copy
in Xerox paper distribution to each of the three middle room turn around is approximately three weeks, not the 5 – 7
schools. Jeanne reported that a principal is teaching a days listed on the form. Gail reported that interim comments
Services, Inc. “When You Wish Upon A Star” evening in the
have changed. Gail asked about the operation and staffing of amount of $100.00, to purchase membership for the 2006
the testing center. Gail also asked if teachers should be on – 2007 in the Greater Patchogue Chamber of Commerce for
the crisis team. Gail asked about the coaches receiving their the amount of $225, and to purchase a 1/16 page journal ad in
stipends according to past practice. the amount of $200.00 from the Nassau County and Suffolk
County Building and Construction Trades Council.
Action Taken: It was moved to donate $700 to the Making
Strides Walk. Executive Board Meeting
November 8, 2006
Executive Board Meeting Brian discussed a dispute with the State Insurance Fund.
October 26, 2006 New Business: Paul discussed Election Day results. Paul re-
ported that 38 pints of blood were collected at the blood drive.
New Business: Beth reported that the December 6 RA will Paul has posted the seniority list in each faculty room. Paul
be a dinner/workshop. Beth also reported that we collected discussed the 1⁄2 day, full day sick day charges. Paul has in-
over $9,000 for the Making Strides Walk, putting us as the formed the district that this is a change in working conditions
top contributor for Suffolk NYSUT. Beth discussed holiday and will continue conversation with district administration re-
cards to be sent to local labor unions. Beth reported that garding this issue. NYSUT pamphlets on testing will be sent
there is a conflict between the Student Citizen Awards and a to teachers of grades 3 – 8 for distribution. Paul discussed the
board meeting. To solve this, Student Citizen Awards will be purchasing of holiday gifts for the District Office secretarial
moved up 1⁄2 hour and the board meeting will be delayed 1⁄2 staff. Paul announced that Jeff will be part of the negotiations
hour. Beth also reported on her attendance at the Patchogue committee. Gail reported that ESL teachers were relieved of
Theater for the Performing Arts. PMCT was recognized as a duty to complete testing of students. In addition, some ESL
a sponsor in an announcement that night and in publica- teachers have been asked to complete administrative work.
tions. The election procedure committee will consist of Paul will look into this issue. Gail discussed a memo distrib-
Paul, Beth, Gail and Jeff. Beth reported that petitions have uted in the high school regarding the new attendance policy.
been received for committee chairpersons. All chairpersons Paul reported that he and members of the executive board did
have been appointed by Paul. Beth discussed purchasing a first reading of the policy last summer and submitted feed-
a political cartoon to use in SpeakOut. Beth reported on back to Mrs.. Bernstein. We did not receive a second reading.
the negotiation survey. Jeff and Sharon Deland have been
awarded a $5000 grant to purchase books for distribution by
The policy has been approved by the Board of Education.
Jeff asked if leave replacement teachers accrue sick time. This
9
Pre-K through 3rd grade teachers at Parent Teacher confer- needs to be determined on an individual basis. Jeff asked
ences during the 2007-2008 school year. Jeff thanked Paul questions regarding the BEDS form and the ramifications of
and Beth for attending the elementary building rep meetings. being not “highly qualified.” The district is required to make
Paul and Beth have also attended meetings at some of the el- all teachers “highly qualified” through professional develop-
ementary buildings. Jeanne discussed the lack of chaperones ment. Jeff asked if teachers are entitled to prep time during
S p e a k O u t
at school events. Jeanne reported on Teacher-to-Teacher the parent-teacher conference days. Teacher prep time is the
Support services assigned to inclusion teachers. Gail asked 5 minutes between conferences. Jeff discussed the new IST
questions about the inclusion program. There is not a written and CSE regulations regarding documentation required by
inclusion model used throughout the district. Gail reported elementary school teachers. Teachers must start documenting
on the Intruder Drill at the high school held October 24th. Response to Intervention (RTI). Jeff discussed the distribu-
Gail also reported on SPAM received on district e-mail. Gail tion of the tickets to “Peter and the Wolf” at the Patchogue
also reported on reserved parking spots. Ellen reported on Theatre for the Performing Arts. Jeff asked about making
the next issue of Connections. Next deadline for Connec- copies in each building. All supplies were distributed based
tions is December 29th. Tom reported on the next issue of on student population and each principal decided on paper
SpeakOut. Grievance Report: Beth reported that a Level II allotments for the building. Jeff asked about charges for lost
grievance was filed due to the failure of the district to notify badges. Paul will review the PERB decision. Jeanne reported
the President of the Congress of vacant and available posi- that three middle school principals and three faculty members
tions as soon as availability was known. A Class action Level will attend the “Breaking Ranks” conference on November
II grievance was filed on behalf of the SS Dept. with regards 13th, 2006. Jeanne discussed the use of PDP time. Ellen also
to the posting of available positions. A Level II grievance reported that December 20th, 2006 is the deadline for the next
was filed on behalf of a teacher not afforded the opportunity issue of Connection. Ellen also reported that future articles
to apply for an available 6th teaching period. will report on distribution of backpacks. Paul and Beth have
been invited to attend a Lion’s Club meeting for official rec-
Actions Taken: It was moved to print holiday cards not to ognition of PMCT support of this program. Tom discussed
exceed $250, to enter into executive session at 4:35 PM, to the next issue of SpeakOut. The deadline will be December
exit executive session at 4:41PM, to purchase the copyright 21st, 2006. Tom also discussed the printing of Speakout. He
to publish a political cartoon to be used in SpeakOut in the suggested that we consider changing the way we print Speak-
amount of $15.00, to purchase a block of 28 tickets not to Out. Currently we take it to a printer. Tom suggested looking
exceed $800 to “Peter and the Wolf” at the Patchogue Theater into printing it in-house to increase efficiency of printing. In
to be used as recognition awards, to form an election commit- addition, he suggested moving toward publishing SpeakOut
tee consisting of Paul, Beth, Gail, and Jeff to review election electronically to reduce costs. Tom will research costs of
procedures, and to purchase positive postcards for Outreach changing our equipment.
not to exceed $1800.00. The GWC moved to purchase a Grievance Report: Beth reported that lunch detention duty
journal ad for the Patchogue-Medford Youth and Community has been discontinued. Paul is working with Mr.. Mostow
Continued on page 10
Conference Reports
Continued from page 9
for compensation for those teachers affected. Beth reported
on the signed MOA at Oregon that allowed the principal to
ask for volunteers to work a differentiated work day in order Paul's and Tom's Excellent Adventure
to hold after school detention. This has only been negotiated
for Oregon Middle School. Beth has filed arbitration papers NYSTRS (New York State Teachers Retirement System) del-
regarding teachers involuntarily transferred and the failure of egates Paul Pecorale and Tom Kowell recently attended the
the district to notify the PMCT President in advance of trans- NYSUT Benefits Conference in Albany (November 3-4) and
fers. Beth reported on the issue of teachers at the elementary NYSTRS’s 86th Annual Delegates Meeting held in Saratoga
level being assigned double duties. Paul and Beth will con- Springs (November 6-7).
tinue to discuss this issue with Mr.. Mostow. Beth reported on
three Level II grievances filed concerning the posting of avail- First the Benefits Conference:
able positions, the failure of the district to notify the PMCT
President of available positions, and on behalf of a SS teacher
not given the opportunity to apply for an available position. What is an Employee Benefit Fund?
The district has acknowledged fault, and is drawing up the
paperwork to correct the situation. An Employee Benefit Fund is a collectively bargained pro-
gram designed to provide a plan of benefits to the members
Actions Taken: It was moved to spend an additional $103.97 of the bargaining unit and their dependents.
for Community Outreach toy donation to before and after care
centers and to purchase $300 worth of Fair Trade products
to distribute as holiday gifts to the District Office secretarial What does it do?
staff. The GWC moved to donate $100 to Brookhaven Hos-
pice and to donate $100 to NYS Labor-Religion Coalition. A fund is an autonomous entity governed by union appointed
trustees. The trustees have the power to purchase insurances
BUY UNION!
and/or to self-fund employee benefits. Typically, these might
include: dental plans, optical/vision insurance, life insurance,
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short or long term disability insurance, legal plans, and rid-
10 ers or enhancements to employer-provided health insurance
benefits.
AFL-CIO’s online shop@www.afl-cio.org/shop What are the advantages of a Benefit Fund?
Powell Books@www.powells.com Given the same benefit dollars, Funds almost always provide
– the largest unionized bookstore in America
S p e a k O u t
the members a superior benefit program when compared to
an employer-operated benefit program. The primary purpose
Justice Clothing@www.justiceclothing.com of a Fund is to make the most out of every available dollar.
No Sweat Apparel@www.nosweatapparel.com or Fund trustees, having a vested interest in their benefits, usu-
www.unitehere.org/buyunion ally do a far better job of shopping for benefits and negotiat-
- sweatshop-free 100% union made clothing ing with insurance carriers. Many Funds eventually self-
fund many benefits, reducing and often eliminating insurance
Guild Guitars@www.guildguitars.com company overhead and profit from the cost of providing
benefits.
- high quality union-made acoustic guitars
What is the NYSUT Member Benefit Trust?
Holiday Cards@www.northlandposter.com –
For union-made & union-themed cards, posters, cloth- In 1983, NYSUT created the Member Benefit Trust as a tax-
ing & more exempt, not-for-profit Trust Fund for the purpose of provid-
Global Exhange’s 2007 Peace Calander@http/ ing members and agency fee payers with access to quality,
store.gxonlinestore.org competitive insurance plans and benefit programs. The Trust
United Farm Workers@www.ufwstore.com – acts in an advocacy role, helping members to obtain and
Selling signed prints by Simon Silva maintain quality benefit programs at competitive prices.
Does PMCT have an Employee Benefits Fund?
Also remember
Cingular Wireless for cellular phones At the present time, no it does not, however; President Peco-
Union Built PC for new computers rale and the executive are looking into the possibility of such
+ Old Favorites such as Scrabble, Etch-a-Sketch and a fund for the PMCT.
Radio Flyer wagons + classic films like
NormaRae, Salt of the Earth or Harlan County. USA
The following PMCT members are recipients of
MESTRACT Mini-grants for 2006/2007.
MESTRACT received many excellent applications for funding. Sixteen (16) teachers from
Patchogue-Medford were award a $1,500.00 grant. This is quite an honor since there were many
applications submitted this year. It shows, once again, the dedication of our teachers to the im-
provement of education.
TEACHER SCHOOL GRANT TITLE
Robert Alonso @ Bay Huzzah! Three Cheers for the
Sarah Gordon First Regiment!
Diana Newman
Joan D’Urso @ Medford A Bug’s Life
Linda Locantore @ Bay Dancing Through the Decades
Carole Charach
Sherry McPherson @ High School E.A.S.Y – EB – Effective Alternatives (to)
Smoking (for) You – Evidenced-Based
Linda Conway @ Oregon Recyclers to the Rescue
Linda Nowicki
Lisa Kovitz
Robert DeFichy @ Bay There is No “I” in Team
Gina McGuire @ Bay Audible Audubon 11
Edward Ohlsen @ Eagle Leaping Into Learning:
Tadpoles and Technology
Cheryl Carr @ Oregon The Spine Crackers Book Club
Kerryn Fries @ Bay Writing with the Stars!
S p e a k O u t
Barbara LoGuidice
An additional CONGRATULATIONS goes out to
Robert Alonso at Bay Elementary School
who was also awarded a $1,500.00 Technology Mini-Grant.
Thank you ALL for a job well done and for your commitment to education!
Second the NYSTRS Delegates Meeting: Legislation:
Show me the Money: There doesn’t seem to be a great deal happening. A “55/25”
did pass in both houses of the state legislature only to be ve-
The Board of Directors reported that NYSTRS had its third toed by the governor. The Legislation page of the NYSTRS
consecutive year of strong performance. During this fiscal web site (www. Nystrs.org) is the best place to check out the
year, the System’s assets grew by $6.6 billion and our fund latest information on pending and previously enacted laws.
rate of return was an impressive 11.8%.
Rumors:
The System’s net assets, which represent funds available to
pay current and future benefits, were $91.5 billion as of the The two hot topics at the meeting were the issue of Tier
end of the current fiscal year. Since 1990 the Fund has more equity and believe it or not the improbable creation of a Tier
than tripled in size. 5 (Individual 401ks for new teachers). NYSTRS has stated
Benefits paid to retirees and members grew, rising from $4.1 that it will continue to press for Tier equity and would vigor-
billion in 2005 to $4.4 billion in 2006. ously oppose a Tier 5. Current members, of course, need not
The System’s funded ratio, a comparison of the actuarial worry; the New York State constitution guarantees your pen-
value of assets to the accrued pension liability was 98.8% as sion. See Article V, Section 7 which states: “…Any pension
of the June 2005 valuation. This is way above the national or retirement system of the state or a civil division thereof
average and marks the System as one of the strongest in the shall be a contractual relationship, the benefits of which shall
nation. not be diminished or impaired.”
THE PMCT EXECUTIVE BOARD
WOULD LIKE TO WISH
EVERYONE A
HAPPY, HEALTHY AND
SAFE HOLIDAY SEASON.
12
S p e a k O u t
YS
IDA
H A PP Y HOL
