As school districts across the state welcome new educators into the fold, local teachers’ associations are on hand to ensure every educator knows where to turn for professional development, camaraderie, and union support.
On Monday, Stamford Public Schools held an orientation for 48 recently hired educators, with most transferring from other districts and 22 entering the profession for the first time.
“Our message to all our new hires is that being part of the union, we’re here for you,” said Stamford Education Association (SEA) Vice President for High Schools Michelle Pusser, one of four SEA vice presidents. “We always emphasize how important it is to make connections not only with your students but also your union colleagues, who will support you in every way you need.”
SEA union reps were on hand to welcome their newest colleagues.
Staffing levels for districts across the state are low, Pusser noted, pointing out that Stamford hopes to bring on additional educators, particularly in persistent shortage areas. “We have 40 open special education positions,” she explained.
Having fought a series of battles with a controversial superintendent in recent years, SEA has worked hard to get school resources and schedules that make sense for students and teachers. With recent changes to the administration, union leaders are optimistic that teaching and learning conditions are on track to improve significantly.
“We want our new educators to know that SEA has an amazing executive board that comes together and problem-solves,” said Pusser. “We have a high degree of respect for each other, and we’re all fighters and teachers’ teachers.”
“This summer we worked particularly hard behind the scenes for all of our membership, trying to right as many wrongs as possible that were a result of the prior administration,” added SEA Vice President Elaine Gencarelli, who says the executive board is positive and hopeful about the new school superintendent.
Looking forward
“I’m very passionate about making connections with my students, staff, families, and community, and I’m especially excited to be starting my career in a district with great diversity,” said incoming middle school counselor Olivia O’Hare. “As a first-year professional, I feel reassured about joining my union and having an ally and someone who’s always there to support me.”
Longtime New York educator Rose Hoey, beginning her 35th year as a school psychologist, looks forward to continuing the work she loves in Stamford.
“As a veteran school psychologist I’m excited to contribute and be there for my new colleagues, and I feel like I have more that I want to give back to students,” Hoey said.
CEA President Kate Dias, who has fought alongside Stamford educators for better teaching and learning conditions, spoke to the power of union solidarity.
“You have a lot of really amazing people in this district who will ensure you are successful and supported,” said CEA President Kate Dias, who, together with CEA Vice President Joslyn DeLancey, has stood with Stamford educators at countless rallies, public meetings, and other efforts to push back against a challenging administration. “Teaching is a team sport; we can’t do this independently. Teaching is not smooth sailing—there’s a lot of excitement, laughter, and ‘Oh, wow, did you see that?’ But it is the best job in the whole world, and when you are around amazing people, it makes every bump in the road easier to navigate and every challenge something you can confront. I am super proud to be your president, leading the largest employee union in the state of Connecticut. We leverage that power to make your work lives better and allow you to focus on what’s important to you and your classrooms. Being part of the union ensures you’re represented in every space where education is discussed.”
Convocation in Stamford took place today, and students’ first day will be August 25.
