May 2021Volume 56, Number 9American Federationof School Administrators,AFL-CIO Local 1

NEWSCOUNCIL OF SCHOOL SUPERVISORS AND ADMINISTRATORS

n CSA’s Running club, CSA Runs As 1, is reactivated and motoring along nicely. Every Sunday at 8:30 am, runners led by dedicated marathoner Marybelle Ferreira, prin-cipal of PS 54 in the Bronx, meet at at the steps to the fountain at Columbus Circle and 59th St. You will recognize your fellow runners by their bright orange shirts. Participants can run, walk, or amble. “It’s your pace, your distance and your comfort level,” Ms. Ferreira said.

Members Run As OneCSA Running Club

BY CHUCK WILBANKS

When the Supreme Court issued its 2018 ruling in Janus v. American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, it appeared to be a huge victory for anti-labor forces. But since that blockbuster decision overturning decades of precedent, labor unions stepped up their organi-zation efforts and many have actually become stronger. On the legal front, attempts to use the Janus case as a springboard for more anti-union rul-ings have also – so far at least – landed with a thud.

The Supreme Court held in Janus that that public sector unions cannot require non-member employees to pay agency fees covering the costs of non-political union activities.

Even as that case was being decided, deep-pocketed activist organizations were bankrolling at least 30 cases around the country that aimed to expand on Janus by suing unions to return dues and agency fees that had been paid for years before.

Given the Janus decision, the new attempt to bankrupt unions was a wor-risome new front in the war on labor.

One case, featuring educators close to home, also has been decided in favor of labor. In Peligrino et al v. N.Y. State Teachers et al, Long Island teacher Scott Pelligrino sued in US District Court seeking to collect past dues he said he was compelled to pay (since he would have had to pay agency fees anyway to fund his union’s collective bargaining work).

His co-plaintiff, Christine VonOstrand, sought to collect past agency fees she had paid. They argued that, in light of Janus, collection of dues and fees was an unconstitutional breach of their First Amendment rights. They wanted a refund.

The District Court for the Eastern District of New York rejected their claims. The court held that NYSUT, in collecting dues and agency fees, were following in good faith the established precedent set by federal courts and upheld for decades. On April 13, judges for the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the District Court’s decision, citing their own 2020 decision in Wholean v. CSEA SEIU Loc. 2001.

“We agree with the District Court that the Unions’ affirmative defense of good faith, as established in Wholean… forecloses these remaining claims,” the Second Circuit judges wrote. “We held in Wholean that parties that ‘collected fair-share [i.e., agency] fees in reliance on directly controlling Supreme Court precedent and then-valid state statutes . . . are entitled to a ‘good-faith’ defense as a matter of law,” regardless of whether the holding in Janus is “retroactive.’”

Federal Courts of Appeals around the country have handed down similar rulings.

CSA General Counsel David Grandwetter applauded the Second Circuit’s decision and expressed mea-sured confidence that the Supreme Court would not reverse it.

“We are happy to see that our local Federal Appeals Court, the Second Circuit, has sided with all other Federal Courts that have heard this issue,” Mr. Grandwetter said. “It’s clear the courts are recognizing that since the unions acted in conformance with the law prior to the Janus ruling, there is no legal basis to expand the scope of that decision. We would hope and expect the Supreme Court to affirm those rulings, if it even decides to hear the matter.”

BENEFITS Proposed Retiree Chapter Member Plan, All The Facts You Need To Know 63

HONOR Principal Awarded For Dedication To Community

PRESIDENT’S CORNER The Time Is Now: Restoring New York City’s Faith In Public Education System 2

Attempts To Use The Janus Case As A Springboard Have Been Unsuccessful

ALPAP

BY CSA NEWS STAFF

A new cohort of 41 aspiring princi-pals graduated on May 7 after an all-re-mote year of study and mentoring under the Advanced Leadership Program for Aspiring Principals. Addressing the partici-pants were Chancellor Meisha Ross Porter, CSA President Mark Cannizzaro and City Council Member Mark Treyger, as well as a trio of superintendents.

Chancellor Porter spoke excitedly about how the DOE finally has the chance to fully fund schools. “We have an oppor-

tunity to give you all the resources you need,” she said. “There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think about you.” She advised the grads to “dream about your first day as principal like I am dreaming about my first opening day as chancellor, welcoming the students back.”

Mr. Cannizzaro said that, while an all-virtual year in ALPAP was certainly unprecedented, in some ways it may be thought of as a blessing. “You missed the experience of connecting in person, lost some visits to buildings, but another part

Continued on Page 3

Aspiring Principals Graduate From Leader’s Program

In Federal Court, Labor Wins Some Big Ones

CSA NEWS2 CSA NEWSMay 2021May 2021

of me thinks you were incredibly lucky,” he said. “I’ve been in this business 35 years and this has been the most challenging year. When you reflect on this crisis, with so many people out of work, ill, you’ve seen so much you’ve probably acquired so many skills and emotional intelligence you may not even be aware of.” He also thanked the mentors. “You are the defini-tion of paying it forward,” he said.

Shirley H. Matthews, is director of ALPAP and is supported by Dr. Eloise Messineo, executive director of the Executive Leadership Institute. The men-tor principals are Louise Alfano Verdemare, Anthony Barbetta, Patrick Burns, Heather Foster-Mann, Dr. Ramon Gonzalez, Christopher Ogno, Rory Parnell and Alexa Sorden.

ALPAP collected reactions of the men-tees from the 2020-21 cohort: “Without a moment’s hesitation I can say with much confidence that ALPAP has prepared me to be an effective school leader.” –Keisha Green, Assistant Principal

“My journey brought me to the DOE at 42 years old. I’d been to many PD oppor-tunities in various industries. ALPAP has been one of, if not, the best-designed and executed programs. I’m thankful that I was honored to be a participant and to call myself an ALPAPian alum. So, yes, I’m prepared for the next step knowing I now have access to a support family during the next chapter of my journey.” –Dr. John

PRESIDENT’S PAGE

Recent data indicates that coronavi-rus infection, hospitalization, and death rates are down dramatically. More and more of us are com-

pletely vaccinated. Plans to fully reopen our city are swiftly moving forward. The state and federal governments have allo-cated unprecedent funds to education, and the city has finally committed to fully funding schools according to its own formula, something CSA has been aggres-sively advocating for years.

I can’t remember the last time that money was not a limiting factor in pro-viding all students with the wide array of quality programs and opportunities they need. The timing could not be better. Our students must reacclimate in a stable and consistent environment. The public’s trust in our public schools – which has eroded due to the city’s poor planning and communication throughout the pandemic – must be restored as quickly as possible. Anything can happen in this awful pandemic, but the outlook for the immediate future is the most optimistic it’s been in ages.

This great opportunity, unfathomable just a few months ago, must not be squandered. The stage has been set for suc-cess and the city must recognize its past mistakes, provide you with the needed support and resources, and then get out of the way. I remain concerned that the City’s history of indecision and micromanagement will impede your abil-ity to be as successful as possible. The mayor must resist his incessant urge to run our schools from City Hall.

Last week, the mayor refused, when pressed by reporters, to give details about a remote learning option for the 2021-2022 school year. He has already stated publicly that there will not be a blended learning option; students will either attend school in person five days per week or participate in full-time remote instruction. However, he continues to be vague about whether parents will choose the mode of instruction or if remote instruction will be limited to stu-dents with medical concerns or other specific circumstances.

It is astonishing to hear him say there is still a lot of time to make these decisions. This betrays a complete lack of

understanding of what it takes to program a school for optimal student success. It is also alarmingly reminiscent of his attitude last year, which resulted in a delayed start of school and dizzying changes of heart and strategy. To avoid a repeat, school leaders need to know now which stu-dents and staff will be in the building in September and how remote instruction will be handled for those who are not.

Before we even get to September, however, the DOE must get the “Summer Rising” program under-

way. Done well, this new and comprehen-sive program could serve as a vehicle to welcome back and reacclimate thousands

of students while engaging them in quality academic, arts and recreational activities. Its success might also give par-ents the confidence to send their children back into school buildings this fall. A lack of success will have the opposite effect. For the program to work, the DOE needs to make some crucial changes, fast.

First, the summer enrollment website, which has errone-ously registered students in schools other than their own, must be fixed, and families must be notified immediately of the correct summer site for their child.

Second, and of even greater importance, is the need to secure sufficient summer staff. The DOE decided to open approximately 700 buildings this summer, roughly twice the traditional number. It seems this decision was made without considering the need to secure the necessary staff members. Understandably, many of you are exhausted and need some time to recoup before plunging back into work.

Most summer sites will require at least two assistant prin-cipals to cover the program and accommodate annual leave schedules. According to principals and some superinten-dents, not nearly enough assistant principals have applied thus far. A similar scenario is likely for teacher and support staff. To avoid risking the success of what could be an out-standing program, the DOE needs to reclaim the enrollment process immediately and either ensure sufficient staffing or

consider consolidating under-enrolled sites. It is the only logical way forward.

For her part, Chancellor Porter has shown the instincts of a principal and the impulse to be highly responsive and communicative. She clearly hasn’t forgotten life as a school leader. But I would add that I sometimes sense an invisible hand pulling her back from doing what comes naturally. It’s some-times seems as if those who should be ardu-ously supporting her vision are the very ones creating obstacles.

We have before us an opportunity not to be missed. Common sense decisions communicated to prin-

cipals with sufficient time for thoughtful implementation can make all the difference in restoring the community’s faith in public education. Let’s all stand together and make sure that happens.

Mark Cannizzaro is president of the Council of School Supervisors and Administrators.

DOE Needs To Make Changes To Program Right Away. By Mark Cannizzaro

‘Summer Rising’ Must Rise To The Occasion

Council of School Supervisors & Administrators

American Federation of School Administrators, AFL-CIO, Local 1

40 Rector St., NY, NY 10006 Phone: (212) 823-2020

Fax: (212) 962-6130 www.csa-nyc.org

President Mark Cannizzaro

Executive Vice President Henry Rubio

First Vice President Rosemarie Sinclair

Treasurer Christopher Ogno

Secretary Steffani Fanizzi

Vice Presidents Sam Akel, Jose Garcia, Ramon Gonzalez

Lois Lee, Katiana Louissaint Nancy Russo, Retiree Chapter

Executive Director Operations Erminia Claudio

General Counsel David Grandwetter

Executive Director Field Services Sana Q. Nasser

Field Directors James Harrigan

Reginald Landeau, Jr. Dorothy Morris Frank Patterson Mercedes Qualls

Wanda Soto

Assistant Field Directors Beshir Abdellatif, Eleanor Andrew, Millie Boyce, Dominic Cipollone,

Brian De Vale, Peter Devlin, Nancy Esposito, Roberto Flores, Ellie Greenberg,

Ray Gregory, Joseph LaCascia, Kenneth Llinas, James McKeon, Monica McDonald,

Beverly Pascal-Miller, Steven Resnick, Sandra Solis, Yvonne Williams

Grievance Director Dale Kelly

Assistant Directors Carol Atkins, Robert Colon,

Jermaine Garden

Director of Communications Craig DiFolco

Director of Political Affairs Gabe Gallucci

Assistant Director, Political Affairs Herman Merritt

Assistant Director John Khani

Special Assistant to President Gary Goldstein

CSA Conference Chair Pierre Lehmuller

CSA Historian Manfred Korman

CSA Retiree Chapter Gayle Lockett, Chair

Mark Brodsky, Director

CSA NEWSEditor

Chuck Wilbanks

Design Consultant Michele Pacheco

Production Assistant Christine Altman

CSA News (004-532) is published monthly except July and August for $35 per year per member by CSA, 40 Rector St., NY, NY 10006. Periodical postage paid at Manhattan, NY, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to CSA News, 40 Rector St., NY, NY 10006.

New Cohort of ALPAP Graduates

• • •

• • •

In the May 10 issue of City and State magazine’s 2021 State Labor Power 100 list, CSA President Mark Cannizzaro was recognized in the

top ten for his work as the president of the New York State Federation of School Administrators. He was also included in the top ten of the maga-zine’s 2021 Education Power 100 list

and received similar recognition in the 2020 Labor Power 100 at the end of last year. Though these annual rankings are subjective, the editors cite CSA’s work and advocacy throughout the pandemic and these well-publicized accolades are the result of the increas-ing recognition citywide and statewide for our union and its members.

Continued from Page 1

• • •

Playing The Long Game, One Pizza At A TimeBY CHUCK WILBANKS

When it came to keeping her students and school com-munity engaged, Principal Erica Mattera of Staten Island’s PS 11 did not let the lockdown tie her hands. The school had a contest to name the school’s mascot. (It’s an eagle, and the winning student – a first grader – came up with the name Endurance.) Student council meetings con-tinued online. Curriculum was tweaked and personalized. There was a virtual graduation. She and her staff delivered piz-zas with thoughtful notes to the homes of students in rec-ognition of their birthdays and academic achievements.

“We’ve learned a lot during Covid – some of the pieces we learned on digital platforms are helping us educate better,” she said. “It’s not all going away tomorrow.”

Perhaps most importantly, she said, “We kept the pulse of the families.”

Her work led Staten Island Borough President James S. Oddo to award Ms. Mattera the Patrick F. Daly award, meant to honor the life work of Mr. Daly, a principal in Red Hook who was shot to death while search-

Notable Awards, Recognition

CSA NEWS CSA NEWSMay 2021 3May 2021

of me thinks you were incredibly lucky,” he said. “I’ve been in this business 35 years and this has been the most challenging year. When you reflect on this crisis, with so many people out of work, ill, you’ve seen so much you’ve probably acquired so many skills and emotional intelligence you may not even be aware of.” He also thanked the mentors. “You are the defini-tion of paying it forward,” he said.

Shirley H. Matthews, is director of ALPAP and is supported by Dr. Eloise Messineo, executive director of the Executive Leadership Institute. The men-tor principals are Louise Alfano Verdemare, Anthony Barbetta, Patrick Burns, Heather Foster-Mann, Dr. Ramon Gonzalez, Christopher Ogno, Rory Parnell and Alexa Sorden.

ALPAP collected reactions of the men-tees from the 2020-21 cohort: “Without a moment’s hesitation I can say with much confidence that ALPAP has prepared me to be an effective school leader.” –Keisha Green, Assistant Principal

“My journey brought me to the DOE at 42 years old. I’d been to many PD oppor-tunities in various industries. ALPAP has been one of, if not, the best-designed and executed programs. I’m thankful that I was honored to be a participant and to call myself an ALPAPian alum. So, yes, I’m prepared for the next step knowing I now have access to a support family during the next chapter of my journey.” –Dr. John

Antinora, Assistant Principal“ALPAP has been an amazing expe-

rience. I believe I have grown in all the school leadership competencies. Most importantly though, because I want to make the leap to elementary school (after 18 years in high school), I gained a bet-ter understanding of the mindset that is necessary to lead successful elementary schools.” –Katia L. Drouillard, Assistant Principal

“Reflecting on my participation in ALPAP, I have gained transparency into my own leadership traits and competen-cies, categorized as strengths, in progress, and needs support. This provides a frame-work for a new Principal to seek proactive support from colleagues, district staff and mentors. Strengths- instructional leader-ship, core values, developing an equity lens, communication, time management; In Progress- community leadership with all

stakeholders, school improvement, build-ing a team/school culture; Needs Support- all fiscal and legal aspects of the role.” –Fran Piccone, Assistant Principal

“This experience has been truly rewarding and I feel so fortunate to have been part of this program. Thank you for making such an impact!” –Lisa Nevins, Assistant Principal

“Thank you again for your support during my ALPAP journey.” –Shery-Ann Atkinson, Assistant Principal

“I do feel prepared to be a Principal via ALPAP.” –Tulani Francis-Samuel, Assistant Principal

“I am ready! ALPAP has taught me a lot about myself and about what is needed to go to the next level. I am looking for-ward to embracing future opportunities and making an impact. Thank you for your guidance and support throughout.” –Michael Pontebbi, Assistant Principal

PRESIDENT’S PAGE

understanding of what it takes to program a school for optimal student success. It is also alarmingly reminiscent of his attitude last year, which resulted in a delayed start of school and dizzying changes of heart and strategy. To avoid a repeat, school leaders need to know now which stu-dents and staff will be in the building in September and how remote instruction will be handled for those who are not.

Before we even get to September, however, the DOE must get the “Summer Rising” program under-

way. Done well, this new and comprehen-sive program could serve as a vehicle to welcome back and reacclimate thousands

of students while engaging them in quality academic, arts and recreational activities. Its success might also give par-ents the confidence to send their children back into school buildings this fall. A lack of success will have the opposite effect. For the program to work, the DOE needs to make some crucial changes, fast.

First, the summer enrollment website, which has errone-ously registered students in schools other than their own, must be fixed, and families must be notified immediately of the correct summer site for their child.

Second, and of even greater importance, is the need to secure sufficient summer staff. The DOE decided to open approximately 700 buildings this summer, roughly twice the traditional number. It seems this decision was made without considering the need to secure the necessary staff members. Understandably, many of you are exhausted and need some time to recoup before plunging back into work.

Most summer sites will require at least two assistant prin-cipals to cover the program and accommodate annual leave schedules. According to principals and some superinten-dents, not nearly enough assistant principals have applied thus far. A similar scenario is likely for teacher and support staff. To avoid risking the success of what could be an out-standing program, the DOE needs to reclaim the enrollment process immediately and either ensure sufficient staffing or

consider consolidating under-enrolled sites. It is the only logical way forward.

For her part, Chancellor Porter has shown the instincts of a principal and the impulse to be highly responsive and communicative. She clearly hasn’t forgotten life as a school leader. But I would add that I sometimes sense an invisible hand pulling her back from doing what comes naturally. It’s some-times seems as if those who should be ardu-ously supporting her vision are the very ones creating obstacles.

We have before us an opportunity not to be missed. Common sense decisions communicated to prin-

cipals with sufficient time for thoughtful implementation can make all the difference in restoring the community’s faith in public education. Let’s all stand together and make sure that happens.

Mark Cannizzaro is president of the Council of School Supervisors and Administrators.

DOE Needs To Make Changes To Program Right Away. By Mark Cannizzaro

‘Summer Rising’ Must Rise To The Occasion

MembersHonored

Teachers’ Retirement

SystemApril 2021

Unit Values

Diversified Equity Fund: 125.792

Balanced Fund: 17.297

International Equity Fund: 12.687

Sustainable Equity Fund: 25.038

U.S Equity Index Fund: 14.264

International Equity Index Fund: 12.717

www.trsnyc.org

New Cohort of ALPAP Graduates Three CSA members were cele-brated at the 98th Memorial Mass at St. Francis de Sales Church on April 24 in Rockaway Park, Queens. Congregants saluted Thomas Carty, principal of PS 49 in Middle Village, Queens, Elvis Estevez, now a supervisory sup-port intervenor with CSA, and Lyril Thomas, AP at IS 240, Andries Hudde Junior High School in Brooklyn who were all celebrated for their work on behalf of the children of New York.

• • •

• • •

Moving Leaders ForwardEXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE

Dr. Gholnecsar (Gholdy) Muhammad will be the keynote speaker at ELIs Summer Institute on Wednesday, July 14, 2021. She is an Associate Professor of Language and Literacy at Georgia State University. She studies Black his-torical excellence within educational communities with goals of reframing curriculum and instruction today.

She works with school communities in best practices in culturally respon-sive instruction. She is the author of the best-selling book, Cultivating Genius: An Equity Model for Culturally and Historically Responsive Literacy.

Registration for this workshop and other ELI Summer Institute workshops being held July 12th through July 15th, 2021 is available at ELIPD.ORG.

Summer Institute Keynoter

Continued from Page 1

• • •

Playing The Long Game, One Pizza At A TimeBY CHUCK WILBANKS

When it came to keeping her students and school com-munity engaged, Principal Erica Mattera of Staten Island’s PS 11 did not let the lockdown tie her hands. The school had a contest to name the school’s mascot. (It’s an eagle, and the winning student – a first grader – came up with the name Endurance.) Student council meetings con-tinued online. Curriculum was tweaked and personalized. There was a virtual graduation. She and her staff delivered piz-zas with thoughtful notes to the homes of students in rec-ognition of their birthdays and academic achievements.

“We’ve learned a lot during Covid – some of the pieces we learned on digital platforms are helping us educate better,” she said. “It’s not all going away tomorrow.”

Perhaps most importantly, she said, “We kept the pulse of the families.”

Her work led Staten Island Borough President James S. Oddo to award Ms. Mattera the Patrick F. Daly award, meant to honor the life work of Mr. Daly, a principal in Red Hook who was shot to death while search-

ing for a student who had gone missing. The other recipient this year was Allison Regan, a teacher at PS 38.

PS 11 is in the Dongan Hills area, drawing students from affluent Todt Hill as well as nearby public housing projects.

Ms. Mattera, like many school leaders around the city, tells of families who have struggled with Covid deaths and poverty exacerbated by the lockdown’s resulting wave of unemploy-ment.

“When one family lost their

home, we held a collection, and helped the family find an apart-ment,” she said. “We delivered food, clothing and toys. We’re a small school, without a lot of support personnel. Our AP, John Ferrannini, was pulled to a REC center. But we really have

tried to keep things as stable as possible for kids and their fam-ilies.”

Ms. Mattera is especially proud of a mural currently in the works. Students collaborated on the design, meant to demon-strate some of school’s core values, including friendship, acceptance, love, respect and strength. “These are the values that Mr. Daly led with, and we vow to continue the mission,” she said.

Ms. Mattera also has a long-term vision meant to deepen the educations of her students and keep them connected to the community as well. She cre-ated a buddy system in which kindergartners get together with fifth graders who serve as mentors. Then, with the help of New Dorp High School Principal Deirdre De Angelis, kids who are in fifth grade meet students from the high school and begin forming connections there as well.

“We follow the PS 11 kids into middle school and then to high school, and we reach out to them in college. It’s our “360 Degrees Project,” ultimately to get our students who graduate from universities to come back and teach for me.”

n Planned mural: Staten Island students collaborate on a project meant to capture PS 11’s values.

CSA NEWS4 CSA NEWSMay 2021May 2021

LINDA M. BORDONI, 69, died in Boynton Beach, FL, on March 12. Born in The Bronx and raised in Westchester, she was a graduate of Sacred Heart HS in Yonkers. Ms. Bordoni earned her bachelor’s degree with honors from Lehman College, then her Master’s Degree from Fordham University, and her supervisor‘s cer-tification from the College of New Rochelle. Leonard Wolff, her husband of 32 years, said Ms. Bordoni worked as an actress and a model with the Ford Modeling Agency, but that her love of children led her to begin a career in edu-cation, first at Christ The King High School in the Bronx and later at the Board of Education as a SPARK Counselor at Grace Dodge Vocational High School. She then served as a teacher of special education at Grace Dodge and quickly rose to become the first AP of that department. She moved to the Mickey Mantle School, PS 811 in Manhattan, and developed an innova-tive integrated teaching model at PS 163 in Manhattan, a nearby elementary school, for her students with special needs. Ms. Bordoni then served as principal of PS 94 in Manhattan, as principal of St. Agatha’s in Rockland County, PS 723 in the Bronx and several other special education sites in the Bronx. “Lynda was a very special and loving person,” her husband said. “Her students followed her like the pied piper.” She retired in 2006 and split time between Hartsdale, NY, and Boynton Beach. In addition to her husband, she leaves behind her daugh-ter, Lisa, her mother Anne, sister Lori, brothers Richard and Steven, and her grandchildren, Alexa, Nicky, Paulie, and Anthony.

RUTH CANTER COHEN, 71, died Feb. 18 at her home in Great Neck, NY. Mrs. Cohen was born in 1949 in Monticello, NY. She grew up on her family’s chicken farm in Woodridge, NY. Mrs. Cohen graduated from Fallsburgh Central HS in 1966 and earned a bachelor’s degree from Penn State University in 1969, said her husband, Richard Cohen. She had majored in math and education. Following her graduation, she began her career in education by teaching math at West Hempstead HS on Long Island. She met, then married Mr. Cohen in 1971. The couple moved to Manhattan where Mrs. Cohen worked at KLM airlines, which allowed the cou-ple to travel the world. Mrs. Cohen went on to earn a master’s degree in preschool education from Hunter College and began a career in pre-school special education with the DOE. Mrs. Cohen earned a school administration and supervision certificate from Queens College and became a District 27 Administrator for preschool special education in South Queens where she fought for services for pre-school children with special needs. After retiring in 2018, she remained an avid tennis player, sailor, photographer and grandmother. In addition to her husband of 49 years, she is survived by the couple’s sons, Joshua and Seth; four grand-children, Maya, Abby, Aaron and Rebecca, and her brothers, Paul Canter and Joel Canter, M.D. Donations in Mrs. Cohen’s memory may be made to the National Leiomyosarcoma Foundation at https://nlmsf.org/.

ALBERT GOLDBERG, 86, died Feb. 27. He was a resident of Boynton Beach, FL. Mr. Goldberg was born in Brighton Beach, grew up in Sheepshead Bay, graduated from Abraham Lincoln HS and earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Brooklyn College, where he met his future wife, the former Ruth Vicktor, a merchandising major who would go on to work for the future Gimbels department store. The couple raised their family in Brooklyn. Mr. Goldberg began his career as a biology teacher at the former Franklin K. Lane HS, before going on to serve as chairman of the biology department at Carnarsie HS when it opened. He served as an assistant principal at interme-diate schools in Brooklyn, ending his career as assistant principal at JHS 302 (Rafael Cordero Junior HS) in East New York. He retired in the early 1990s. After retiring, Mr. Goldberg worked as a para-legal and as a tax-preparer. “He was a man of many talents and many interests, and he had many friends,” said his daughter, Joyce Gaines, noting that he remained close to several of his colleagues in the DOE even after

the Goldbergs relocated to Boynton Beach, FL, in 1998. Mr. Goldberg’s wife died weeks before he did, in December 2020. In addition to his daughter Joyce, he is survived by another daughter, Lauren Block, and three grandchil-dren Jonathan Gaines, Kameron Block, and Mikayla Block.

FRED JACKSON JR., 77, died Jan. 30. He lived in Brooklyn. Mr. Jackson was born in Norfolk, VA and graduated from Norfolk’s Booker T. Washington High School, worked his way through Norfolk State University and graduated in 1967 with a BS in physical edu-cation. He went on to earn a master’s degree in education from Brooklyn College and his administrative credentials at City University of New York. Mr. Jackson began his career as a physical education teacher at PS 5 in Bedford-Stuyvesant, was drafted to serve stateside in the Army for two years during the Vietnam War, and returned to teach fifth- and sixth-grades at

the elementary school level. He also served as director of the Gates Program, which served at-risk students in Brooklyn. He became an assistant principal at JHS 35 (Stephen Decatur Junior High School) and JHS 57 (Whitelaw Reid Junior High School), both in Brooklyn’s District 16, before being appointed

principal at JHS 265 (Susan S. McKinney JHS) in Fort Greene, a position from which he retired in 1998. Mr. Jackson participated in a Scouting program and in civil rights demonstrations as a young man in Norfolk and as a member of the Youth Division of the NAACP, he participated in the Historic March on Washington in 1963. Mr. Jackson would go on to start at Scouting pro-gram at PS 5; he continued as a Scout leader of both Cub and Boy Scouts at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Brooklyn. Mr. Jackson is survived by his wife of 55 years, Beatrice B. Jackson, whom he met in college and who retired from DOE as a school psychologist, their four children — LaDonya J. Jackson, Shanie L. Jackson, Damalia J. Ruffin, and Fred A. Jackson III -- two sisters, Sandra J. Spellman and Venessa J. Yancey, an aunt, Velma D. Gilliam; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren, and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, friends and colleagues. His wife noted that Mr. Jackson was very athletic, and played basketball, baseball, football, track and tennis. “He was known in Clinton Hill as ‘General Jackson,’” she said, a nickname stem-ming from a physical-fitness program he taught at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Brooklyn.

ARTHUR GUY PENNISI, 70, died Jan. 21. He lived in Franklin Square, NY. Born in Brooklyn, Mr. Pennisi grew up in Long Island and grad-uated from Sewanahaka HS in Elmont, NY. He earned a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in education from Queens College. Mr. Pennisi’s father had been a teacher at PS 145 in Bushwick, Brooklyn, and Mr. Pennisi followed in his footsteps and began his career teaching fourth-grade. He moved on to teach English at IS 162, also in Bushwick, before being named an assistant principal. He was later appointed prin-cipal of IS 291 in Brooklyn, before closing out his career as principal of Intermediate School 347 in Bushwick in 2005. In addition to his edu-cation career, Mr. Pennisi was a saxophonist, and had a wedding band that performed reg-ularly. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Rosemarie Pennisi, their three children, Michele Lanci, Janine Pennisi and Joseph Pennisi; three grandchildren, Tyler, Dylan and Kylee Lanci, and a sister, Annette Cimino.

ROBERT ANTHONY PEREZ 73, died Sept. 1. He lived in West Hempstead, NY. He was born in Brooklyn, attended St. Gregory’s Elementary School and graduated from the former Power Memorial Academy. He took classes at the Community College of NY before earning a bachelor’s degree from St. Francis College in Brooklyn. He completed his master’s degree in special education at Baruch College and

earned his doctorate at Fordham University in the Bronx. Mr. Perez began his career at the New Catholic HS in Brooklyn before signing on with NYC’s DOE. He served as an interim super-visor of special education services in District 16, before being appointed a superintendent of special education. After his retirement in 2003, he taught classes in special-education at Touro College and Brooklyn College. He was an active parishioner of St. Charles Borromeo Church of Harlem. In addition to his wife of 48 years, Sharon Perez, he is survived by the couple’s three children – Alison, Stephen and LeighAnn; their spouses, Brian DeMauro, Jonathan Smith, and Gina Bruno; grandsons, Aidan, Anthony and Dylan, and his mother, Eileen Perez. He was anticipating the arrival of a granddaughter, Isla Smith, at the time of his death. “Bob’s love and devotion as a husband, father, grandfather and son were unparalleled,” wrote his wife. “He enjoyed his work and the camaraderie of col-leagues while seeking to improve the quality of opportunities afforded to each student.”

WALTER K. SADOWSKI, 74, of Brooklyn, NY, died Jan. 21. Mr. Sadowski was born in Maspeth and worked in District 15 in Brooklyn for over 36 years, beginning as a Social Studies teacher at Nathan Hale Junior High School. According to his wife Patricia, he moved on to the District 15 office to write grants, but in 1977, he returned to in-school service as the principal of IS 142 in Carroll Gardens. He worked there until being named a deputy superintendent in District 15. Mr. Sadowski retired from that position in 2003. Mr. Sadowski also served as Community School Board Chairman for District 22 in Brooklyn for about 15 years, beginning in 1972. He earned a bachelor’s degree from St. Francis College in Brooklyn, a second bachelor’s degree from Brooklyn College, and a master’s degree from Pace University. In addition to a home in the Marine Park section of Brooklyn, the family owned a home in the Poconos. After retire-ment, Mr. Sadowski and his wife also spent part of their year in Hutchinson Island, FL. In addition to his wife, Mr. Sadowski is survived by the couple’s daughters Lynn and Kimberly, their son Andrew; four grandchildren, Billy, Tyler, Matthew, and Katie, his sister, Joyce Novak, and two brothers, Robert and Kenneth.

TERENCE TENNY, 72, died Feb. 2. He lived in Queens, where he was born and raised. Mr. Tenny graduated from Bayside HS and earned a bachelor’s degree and a mas-ter’s degree in Spanish from City College in Manhattan. His daughter, Nicole Tenny, said her father was inspired to pursue Spanish by a high school teacher. He began his career at the former Norman Thomas HS for Business and Commercial Education in Manhattan. He retired from Adlai Stevenson HS in Soundview, Bronx in 2003 as an assistant principal of for-eign languages and ESL. He continued to teach Spanish while serving as an AP. After he retired, Mr. Tenny served for several years as an adjunct professor at Manhattan College in the Bronx and at the College of Mount St. Vincent in Riverdale, said his daughter. Mr. Tenny is sur-vived by his wife and daughter.

CHARLES HARRY WILBERG 85, died Feb. 20. He lived in Walton, NY. Born in Brooklyn, NY, he worked at Kinney Motors in Brooklyn as a mechanic, and owned and operated Charo’s Amoco Station in Brooklyn for over 20 years. He went on to earn a master’s degree in administration and education from Fordham University, and began his career in NYC’s DOE. He brought a National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation certification to the automotive program at Automotive HS in Brooklyn, where he received an “Outstanding Automotive Educator” award. He served as an assistant principal at the school for over 25 years, retiring in 2004. Mr. Wilberg loved restor-ing classic cars, especially Chevrolets. He was a member of the Chevy Truck Legends Club. Mr. Wilberg is survived by his wife of 64 years, Rosemarie Wilberg; two children, Linda Wilberg and Leeann Argudo, his brother, Edward Wilberg and grandchildren Nicolette Wilberg, Elena Rose Argudo, and Gabrielle Argudo.

Send obituary notices to CSA News Editor Chuck Wilbanks at chuck@csa-nyc.org.

In Memoriam The Welfare FundReimbursements And Prior Authorizations

Lifestyle Or Purely Cosmetic Medicines Are Not Covered

N A T I O N

Education

Cape Fear Community College is one of a number of colleges in the state that offers a dual enrollment program. However, last year, Sea Tech High School built a kitchen for Cape Fear’s culinary program. Now, dual enrolled students can take college level classes right at their high school, beginning at age 15. The program culminates with a two-year degree, free to high school students. Reportedly 95% of the graduates of the pro-gram immediately enter into a job. That number is expected to be even higher post pandemic. (Spectrum News 1)

NORTH CAROLINA

Dual Enrollment

MINNESOTA

Native LanguagesStudents and community mem-bers have a way to connect more deeply with the historic cultures of Minnesota through language. Three indigenous language classes, Ho-Chunk, Ojibwe and Dakota, are being offered by the White Bear Lake school district’s American Indian Parent Advisory Committee. The classes are virtual and open to the public, attracting students beyond the school district. It is hoped that indigenous language classes will soon be offered as credit bearing electives. (presspubs.com)

San Marcos Consolidated Independent School District, located in an area where tech facilities are expanding, is strengthening the connection between school and work. In response to the need for skilled STEM workers, the district is offering a computer science and digital forensics pathway and a next-generation auto-motive tech and engineering program. CTE staff are also training elementary teachers to incorporate coding, computa-tional thinking and STEM skills into their curriculum to prepare students for more specialized classes in the higher grades. (District Administration)

TEXAS

CTE Pipeline

ED’s Safer Schools and Campuses Best Practices Clearinghouse - a website currently in development – is intended to cull resources for student, teacher, faculty and staff concerning reopening and oper-ating safely during the pandemic. The US Department of Education has requested information from schools, colleges, universities and early education providers for three areas: safe and healthy environments, providing support to students, and faculty/staff well-being, professional development and support. For more informa-tion, e-mail bestpracticesclearing-house@ed.gov. (The Journal)

— Compiled by Christine AltmAn

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Best Practices

Fred A. Jackson, Jr.

True Love Conquers, AgainBY DONNA MCGUIRE

Camilo and Connie Mejia met when they were stu-dents together

in the fourth grade in Washington Heights. They shared a fondness for school, friends and class-mates.

The pair graduated from the eighth grade and attended separate high schools, but in tenth grade they reconnected and began dating. After grad-uating from different col-leges, Connie was ready to become a teacher. Camilo was excited for a field in marketing. After Connie’s first-year as a teacher, and Camilo as her biggest cheerleader, Camilo pro-posed and they married in July 1991.

A few years later, Mr. Mejia saw the joy his wife had in her calling, and was inspired to become a teacher too. Together, the cou-ple learned how to navigate their vocation and worked together to become nurturing educators and loving parents. The Mejias rose to become assistant principals and princi-pals in District 6: Today, Mrs. Mejia is the principal of PS 018, Park Terrace, and Mr. Mejia is principal of PS 48 P.O. Michael J. Buczek, both in Washington Heights. The couple still speaks passionately about their family, school, and the community where they grew up and returned to become

CSA NEWS CSA NEWSMay 2021 5May 2021

earned his doctorate at Fordham University in the Bronx. Mr. Perez began his career at the New Catholic HS in Brooklyn before signing on with NYC’s DOE. He served as an interim super-visor of special education services in District 16, before being appointed a superintendent of special education. After his retirement in 2003, he taught classes in special-education at Touro College and Brooklyn College. He was an active parishioner of St. Charles Borromeo Church of Harlem. In addition to his wife of 48 years, Sharon Perez, he is survived by the couple’s three children – Alison, Stephen and LeighAnn; their spouses, Brian DeMauro, Jonathan Smith, and Gina Bruno; grandsons, Aidan, Anthony and Dylan, and his mother, Eileen Perez. He was anticipating the arrival of a granddaughter, Isla Smith, at the time of his death. “Bob’s love and devotion as a husband, father, grandfather and son were unparalleled,” wrote his wife. “He enjoyed his work and the camaraderie of col-leagues while seeking to improve the quality of opportunities afforded to each student.”

WALTER K. SADOWSKI, 74, of Brooklyn, NY, died Jan. 21. Mr. Sadowski was born in Maspeth and worked in District 15 in Brooklyn for over 36 years, beginning as a Social Studies teacher at Nathan Hale Junior High School. According to his wife Patricia, he moved on to the District 15 office to write grants, but in 1977, he returned to in-school service as the principal of IS 142 in Carroll Gardens. He worked there until being named a deputy superintendent in District 15. Mr. Sadowski retired from that position in 2003. Mr. Sadowski also served as Community School Board Chairman for District 22 in Brooklyn for about 15 years, beginning in 1972. He earned a bachelor’s degree from St. Francis College in Brooklyn, a second bachelor’s degree from Brooklyn College, and a master’s degree from Pace University. In addition to a home in the Marine Park section of Brooklyn, the family owned a home in the Poconos. After retire-ment, Mr. Sadowski and his wife also spent part of their year in Hutchinson Island, FL. In addition to his wife, Mr. Sadowski is survived by the couple’s daughters Lynn and Kimberly, their son Andrew; four grandchildren, Billy, Tyler, Matthew, and Katie, his sister, Joyce Novak, and two brothers, Robert and Kenneth.

TERENCE TENNY, 72, died Feb. 2. He lived in Queens, where he was born and raised. Mr. Tenny graduated from Bayside HS and earned a bachelor’s degree and a mas-ter’s degree in Spanish from City College in Manhattan. His daughter, Nicole Tenny, said her father was inspired to pursue Spanish by a high school teacher. He began his career at the former Norman Thomas HS for Business and Commercial Education in Manhattan. He retired from Adlai Stevenson HS in Soundview, Bronx in 2003 as an assistant principal of for-eign languages and ESL. He continued to teach Spanish while serving as an AP. After he retired, Mr. Tenny served for several years as an adjunct professor at Manhattan College in the Bronx and at the College of Mount St. Vincent in Riverdale, said his daughter. Mr. Tenny is sur-vived by his wife and daughter.

CHARLES HARRY WILBERG 85, died Feb. 20. He lived in Walton, NY. Born in Brooklyn, NY, he worked at Kinney Motors in Brooklyn as a mechanic, and owned and operated Charo’s Amoco Station in Brooklyn for over 20 years. He went on to earn a master’s degree in administration and education from Fordham University, and began his career in NYC’s DOE. He brought a National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation certification to the automotive program at Automotive HS in Brooklyn, where he received an “Outstanding Automotive Educator” award. He served as an assistant principal at the school for over 25 years, retiring in 2004. Mr. Wilberg loved restor-ing classic cars, especially Chevrolets. He was a member of the Chevy Truck Legends Club. Mr. Wilberg is survived by his wife of 64 years, Rosemarie Wilberg; two children, Linda Wilberg and Leeann Argudo, his brother, Edward Wilberg and grandchildren Nicolette Wilberg, Elena Rose Argudo, and Gabrielle Argudo.

Send obituary notices to CSA News Editor Chuck Wilbanks at chuck@csa-nyc.org.

The Welfare FundReimbursements And Prior Authorizations

Dr. Douglas V. Hathaway

Question: I became Medicare eligible in February. I have my Medicare card, which I sent you for submission to GHI and the

City Office of Labor Relations. I remember you saying that I will be reimbursed for my Medicare Part-B premiums. When do I start getting the checks – it has been 3 months already!

ANSWER: I may have been a bit unclear when I explained the way the reimbursement works. Reimbursement is done the following April. In your case, since you were Medicare eligible in February of 2021, you will receive a reimbursement for the standard Medicare Part-B deduction ($148.50 in 2021) for the 11 months you are eligible in April 2022.

If you have been notified by the Social Security Administration that you must pay an extra mount for Medicare Part-B (and Part-D) under the IRMAA (Income Related Adjustment Amount) assessment, once you receive the standard reimbursement in April 2022 we will ask you to submit a signed appli-cation form and specific documents to us so we can review them for accuracy before sub-mission to the City. This information is man-ually processed for each person (over 12,000 for 2020 reimbursements) and reimbursement will be made in October of 2022.

All reimbursements are made the same way you receive your pension: if you have your pension directly deposited, the Medicare

reimbursements are deposited into the same account. If you receive a paper check for your monthly pension, the reimbursements are made by check.

Question: I am an assistant prin-cipal, and was recently prescribed a new medication for my severe acne. It was rejected at the phar-

macy and the pharmacist indicated it needed a prior authorization and I should contact the welfare fund. What do I have to do to get this medication?

ANSWER: We require a prior authoriza-tion for many medications which, while pre-scription medications, may not be necessary for the sustaining of life. It is the policy of the fund that procedures for purely cosmetic or life-style reasons are not covered. Your acne medication requires a prior authorization because, generally speaking, after age 23 most cases of acne clear up and medications that treat acne are prescribed for the off-label pur-pose of reducing wrinkles. When your doctor provided the medical necessity of the pre-scription it was approved immediately. Please note that prior authorizations are generally granted for a period of one year, and need to be re-authorized each year.

Dr. Douglas V. Hathaway is CSA Welfare Fund Administrator. You can email him at dhatha-way@csa-nyc.org.

Lifestyle Or Purely Cosmetic Medicines Are Not Covered

N A T I O N

Labor

Partnering with the Departments of Agriculture, Public Health and Labor, Connecticut farms will be able to host mobile clinics for farm workers to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The initiative was prompted by calls from farms asking if they could arrange for on-site vaccinations for workers. Some farms host 200-400 seasonal workers, many of whom come from other states or on special visas that allow agricultural workers to enter the country. Often, workers live in congregate housing, increasing the risk of contracting the COVID-19 virus. (CT Examiner)

CONNECTICUT

Mobile Clinics

The two largest educators’ unions, The National Association of Educators (NEA) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) have joined forces to outline “the essen-tial elements needed to effectively understand and address the ways in which the pandemic disrupted stu-dents’ academic, social, and devel-opmental experiences.” A frame-work, entitled “Learning Beyond COVID-19, A Vision for Thriving in Public Education” outlines five pri-orities including summer learning and enrichment, diagnosing stu-dent well-being, meeting the needs of underserved students, profes-sional excellence for learning and growth, and an education system focused on equity and excellence. (Education International)

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Unions Unite

NYU graduate students are striking for higher wages, better health care, and a change in the school’s rela-tionship with the police department. Graduate students are refraining from work, including assistant teach-ing and grading papers. Over seven years ago, NYU’s grad students were the first in the country to win volun-tary recognition for the union from a private university. The contract expired in August and the students’ union has been in heated negotia-tions since. (New York Times)

— Compiled by Christine AltmAn

NEW YORK

NYU Strike

True Love Conquers, AgainBY DONNA MCGUIRE

Camilo and Connie Mejia met when they were stu-dents together

in the fourth grade in Washington Heights. They shared a fondness for school, friends and class-mates.

The pair graduated from the eighth grade and attended separate high schools, but in tenth grade they reconnected and began dating. After grad-uating from different col-leges, Connie was ready to become a teacher. Camilo was excited for a field in marketing. After Connie’s first-year as a teacher, and Camilo as her biggest cheerleader, Camilo pro-posed and they married in July 1991.

A few years later, Mr. Mejia saw the joy his wife had in her calling, and was inspired to become a teacher too. Together, the cou-ple learned how to navigate their vocation and worked together to become nurturing educators and loving parents. The Mejias rose to become assistant principals and princi-pals in District 6: Today, Mrs. Mejia is the principal of PS 018, Park Terrace, and Mr. Mejia is principal of PS 48 P.O. Michael J. Buczek, both in Washington Heights. The couple still speaks passionately about their family, school, and the community where they grew up and returned to become

educational leaders. On April 21, Mr. and

Mrs. Mejia attended a reg-ular District 6 Principals meeting, a virtual event held by Superintendent Manny Ramirez.

“I really appreciate everyone having their cam-eras on,” said Mr. Ramirez. “It’s good to see your faces. But Connie, I don’t see Camilo. Where is he?”

“He’s at his school,” she said. “I think he’s on his phone.” Suddenly, Mrs. Mejia saw on her computer screen that her husband was behind her, holding a bouquet of red roses.

Next, Mr. Mejia got on bended knee and asked his wife if she would

marry him again. He said he would ask the blessing of Superintendent Ramirez (whom Mr. Mejia had pre-

viously tipped off on the phone). Mr. Ramirez agreed. The Mejias said they felt grateful to be surrounded by their beloved colleagues in District 6, since education brought them together and has been woven throughout their lives together. They are renewing their vows on July 27, 30 years and seven days after their first wedding.

Donna McGuire, an AP at PS 18 in Manhattan, is CSA Chair of District 6.

n Principals Camilo and Connie Mejia, high school sweethearts, originally tied the knot in Washington Heights in 1991.

School, Community, Family

• • •

Washington renewed calls for Medicaid expansion in Georgia in the American Rescue Plan. Georgia is one of 12 states that have not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. The plan would extend coverage to low income adults with no children who earn less than $17,775 yearly. This could allow an estimated half million people, about 39% of Georgia’s uninsured adults, to have coverage. Many are working as cashiers, cooks and housekeeping staff and do not receive health ben-efits through work. Georgia has been reticent to expand Medicaid for fear of eventual costs to the state. (Georgia Recorder)

GEORGIA

Medicaid Expansion

CSA NEWS CSA NEWSMay 2021May 20216

CHAIR’S MESSAGEGayle Lockett

C h a p t e r

As we move forward and emerge from our pan-demic cocoons, the RC has been very involved politically, particularly

when it comes to our benefits. This month, I am writing to you

not only as the RC Chair, but also as a member of the Board of Trustees of the CSA Welfare Fund. Juanita Johnson and I serve as trustees on the Trustee Board along with the CSA officers, Welfare Fund admin-istrator, accountant, counsel, and

actuary. We monitor average monthly claims and costs, such as medical, dental, prescription co-pays, optical, home health aides, hearing aids, and so forth, as well as our cash status.

I’m happy to report that our Welfare Fund is financially sound -- so much so that we were able to provide a new legal services benefit.

It is an exciting new development. The RC Executive Board has heard preliminary presentations about it and are scheduled to hear a second talk at our May RC Executive Board meeting. Some regional units have already scheduled both parts of the presentation for their retirees. At several of the meetings, the presenter, attorney Steve Kramer stated, “You do not know what you do not know until you ask the question.” Therefore, if you have a legal question, call this new service. You will get a real person to speak to. See the CSA website for details.

At the April Retiree Chapter Executive Board meet-ing, CSA President Mark Cannizzaro addressed the con-cerns and misinformation circulating about the proposed PPO Medicare Advantage Plan being considered by the Municipal Labor Committee (MLC), an organization made up of approximately 152 representatives of the city munic-ipal unions. This plan is not finalized – it is still in negoti-ation by the MLC. Before our RC Executive Board meeting, RC Treasurer Stanley Wilson, who also reports on member outreach, submitted questions on behalf of members to Dr. Hathaway. Please see his answers on the right.

President Cannizzaro and Administrator Hathaway are confident that the proposed plan under consideration will not harm CSA retirees and that some of its benefits

might be considered enhancing. Once we know the final details, we have requested a summary be provided compar-ing the original plan with the new offering so that you can be informed of your options.

We are still collecting for the CSA Scholarship Fund. Checks may be made out to CSA Scholarship Fund and sent to RC Director Mark Brodsky, 40 Rector Street 12th floor, New York, NY 10006. Thanking the regional units and individual donors, in advance, for their donations. It is greatly appreciated.

Stay well, be safe and remain positive. We are getting closer to meeting in person. Plans are underway to have our CSA Conference in person. Look for an announcement soon.

In Unity,Gayle Lockett

RETIREEOut Of The Cocoon

• • •

Facts: Proposed New Retiree Plan

BY DR. DOUGLAS V. HATHAWAY

Some long-time retirees may remember that I was a DJ on my college radio station back when “Classic Rock” was known as “Top 40.” To me, many songs from back then have a special

relevance to events of today. Recently I’ve been thinking about one song in particular, John Fogerty’s, “I Saw It On TV,” the gist of which is that somebody saw something on television so they assume it must be true. Today’s counterpart would be, “I saw it on the Internet.”

The current spread of half-truths and mis-information concerning a proposed change to health care for Medicare-eligible retirees fits per-fectly the phenomena Mr. Fogarty lampooned. I will present the facts about the proposed insur-ance change as they are known at this point. And I’ll try to answer some of your most com-mon questions.

In 1946, New York City committed to provid-ing free basic health care to all active in-service employees and their families as well as all retired employees receiving a pension and their fami-

BY LUCIE ELIO

We offer the following virtual classes/lectures to members, free, except for the last three. To register, email Retireeclasses@csa-nyc.org. List the event, including class/lecture’s title, your name, email and phone. Note: The Educational/Cultural Program will not offering any virtual presentation in August, but resumes in September.

Zoom Classes On Deck

Date Changes due unforeseen events May 10th: Walking Tour of New York – Matthew Green- 1:00 pm May 17th: Theodore & Eleanor Roosevelt – Howard Ehrlich – 10:30 am July 14th: (not June 30th) Books & Bagels – Beth Peller – 10:30 am June 2021 Virtual Program - Time: EST 6/1: Nooks and Crannies of NY – Justin Ferate – 1:00 6/7: The Roaring Twenties – Marilyn Carmino – 1:00 6/8: Rock ‘n’ Roll Part 3 – Richard Knox – 1:00 6/14: CSA Legal Service Plan Part 2 – FKM Law Firm – 1:00 6/15: Women of NY Part 2 – A & S Zuckerman - 1:00 6/21: Hearing Lost – K. Alexandra Schultz, audiologist – 1:00 6/23: Coney Island – Sal St. George – 1:00 6/28: The RMS Titanic…Her Final Days – Eco photo explorers – 1:00 7/1: Yankee Doodle Dandy – Sal St. George – 1:00

lies. This provision is a part of the city’s administrative code.

At this time, I am aware of only one other municipal / governmental entity that provides free basic health care for active employees, which is the Los Angeles County School District. To my knowledge, New York City is the sole remaining entity that provides free basic health care to retired employees.

As health care costs continue their astronomical rise, New York City has continued to provide free basic health care. The city has repeatedly tried to reduce benefits or require participant contribution, but through a series of healthcare savings agreements with the Municipal Labor Committee (MLC), representing the city’s unionized work force, adequate savings have been achieved, so far with no impact on retir-ees. During Mayor Bloomberg’s admin-istration, the City attempted to negoti-ate health care savings but would not use the savings to increase employees’ wages. Predictably, those efforts failed.

When Mayor de Blasio took office, all of approximately 152 unionized bar-gaining units in the city were working on expired contracts under terms of the Taylor Law. The new mayor promptly began negotiating health care savings with the MLC, but this time commit-ted to using the savings to settle union contracts. At that time several unions, including CSA and UFT, were one round of negotiations behind other unions. The initial savings agreement provided for over $3 billion in savings over four years. The brunt of the savings mea-sures fell on active employees, includ-ing increased health plan co-payments and direction to lower cost providers. None of these measures impacted retir-ees. Active and retired employees still do not pay for health care benefits.

In June 2018, a second health care savings agreement was reached, with a goal of $2.1 billion in additional savings. This agreement created the Tripartite Committee, with representa-tives from city government, the MLC, and an experienced arbitrator, tasked with finding ways to continue the pre-

I have conducted several informational sessions with various retiree units, which will continue into June. So far, there are a number of common questions. Here they are, with my answers.

Q: Will members be required to switch to the new plan or can they stay with the current GHI Senior Care plan?A: As presently envisioned, there will be an option to switch to the new plan or stay with GHI Senior Care. The City is required to provide free basic healthcare to all active and retired employees. If the new plan is adopted and determined to be the baseline plan, then a contribution to remain in Senior Care will most likely be required. This is presently in effect for other retiree plans, such as Empire EPO, Empire MediBlue, and AETNA.

Q: Could we opt into another Medicare Advantage Plan like Blue Cross/Blue Shield? Could members now in the HMO VIP HIP Plan keep it?A: Those in the HIP VIP plan will not be impacted. Members are free to switch to whichever plan they desire, though plans other than HIP VIP and Senior Care require contributions to the premiums. Other Medicare Advantage plans require the type of restrictions which are deemed objectionable when critiquing the proposed plan: only network providers, prior approvals for most test, etc.”

Q: In the Request for Proposals, what is the length of the contract?A: The minimum length is expected to be 5 years, with provisions to extend.

Q: Will we have 100 days of rehab under the pro-posed plan?A: Yes, the skilled nursing facility, or rehab, bene-fit will remain 100 days.

Q: How will our CSA Welfare Fund benefits be affected? Will the amount of money the city gives the Welfare Fund change?A: There will be no reduction in the contributions to the Welfare Fund.

Q: How is the city saving money especially if we will be able to go to any doctor that accepts Medicare?

A: The City will save money since Medicare pro-vides a subsidy to Medicare Advantage plans that is not provided to Medicare supplement (MediGap) plans such as Senior Care. In addition, there are a number of wellness incentives, such as nutrition counseling and mobility programs such as Silver Sneakers that are included in the plan. As health outcomes improve, and par-ticipants are satisfied with the plan, subsidies improve. Additionally, Medicare saves money since they are not actually processing claims. The proposed plan will process the Medicare and supplemental reimbursement and participants will only receive one explanation of benefits.

Q: If our current doctors are not in the Advantage Plan can they refuse to accept us as patients even though the plan says that we can go to any Medicare doctor? Will our doctors be paid the same amount as they were with Original Medicare with and Emblem Health supplement?A: Under the current proposal, any doctor who par-ticipates with Medicare reimbursement as payment in full may be used. If your provider does not have a relationship with Medicare you will continue to be responsible for 100% of whatever is charged.

Q: Are final decisions made by the MLC?A: The final decision is made jointly by the MLC and the City of New York, as it is with any decision concerning employee/retiree health benefits. Both parties, and, in this case, likely the arbitrator who is part of the Tripartite agreement, must be in agreement.”

Q: When will this plan take effect?A: The original implementation date was July 1, 2021. That is clearly not reasonable or feasi-ble considering a vendor has not been selected and contracts have not been signed. Based on the complexity and scale of implementing any changes I would expect that implementation would be a minimum of 6 months after the con-tracts are executed.”

The Facts At This Time: New BenefitsContinued from previous page

Continued on next page

What You Need To Know

391095_May 2021 CSA News_R1.indd 6 5/18/21 3:45 PM

CSA NEWS CSA NEWSMay 2021May 2021

C h a p t e rRC Regional Units

LONG ISLAND

Hope that you are enjoying the mild, Arizona spring temperatures and are gearing up for the long, hot sum-mer. Please submit your 2021 dues checks in order to remain in good standing and receive benefits of our unit. Kindly mail your $15 check made out to CSA SW UNIT to Stef Thier, 17850 N 68 St, Unit 3124, Phoenix, Arizona 85054. Looking forward to our next Zoom meeting, to be held jointly with the Pacific Coast unit. The Zoom link was emailed to you. See you Wednesday, June 2, at 11:00 am Pacific time. Our guest speaker, Steve Kramer, Esq. will provide important information about our new legal plan. In the mean-time, be well and stay cool. As always, I can be reached at sthier8@gmail.com.

—Stef thier

SOUTHWEST

On behalf of the Southeast, Suncoast and Central Florida CSARC Units, I would like to thank Dr. Douglas Hathaway for his Zoom presentation on the proposed Health plan changes on April 27. Please note that there will be another Zoom conference for all Florida units on May 19, to discuss the Legal Services Plan that the CSA adopted. Links will be provided as soon as they are established. You can expect our next newsletter to be sent out towards the end of May or beginning of June. If you have had a change of address, please email or call me so that we can make the necessary corrections. Email: gcleflt@gmail.com). Phone: (561) 964-8865

— LoiS turetzky

SOUTHEAST FLORIDA

We will be hosting an informational meeting on June 11 at 10:30 am. Look for an email from Mark Brodsky which will give the Zoom meeting details. Dr. Douglas Hathaway will be updating us on the proposed Medicare Advantage Plan. On March 26, the book clubs from the Georgia and Carolinas units discussed “The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett. They will be reading “Black Buck” by Mateo Askaripour next. At our unit meeting on May 5, Christopher Wilson discussed senior tax issues and ways to maintain your income. Anyone wishing to join our unit, please contact Yvonne Gardner, nycurryg@aol.com.

— yvonne Gardner

CAROLINAS

Our unit i s exci ted to have Zuckerman’s Virtual Tour of the Bronx for our end of the year meeting, on Thursday, June 17, 2021. Our meet-ing will be held at 12:30 P.M. with the tour beginning at 1:00 pm. Dr. Douglas Hathaway will virtually address our membership on Wednesday, May 19, 2021 on Medicare Advantage Plan issues. Please email your questions for Doug to sdt187@Gmail.com prior to the meeting. As we begin to enjoy Spring, we still need to be persistent with safety measures in public. Wear your masks, properly distance yourself from others, and make an appointment to receive COVID-19 vaccinations. We look forward to seeing you soon.

—Sharon d. thompSon

BRONX

Our unit continues to provide our members a number of virtual zoom classes which include chair yoga, sim-ply aerobics, Tai Chi, and current events discussions. These classes are ongoing throughout the spring. For information on dates, times and how to participate, please visit our website at csaliretirees.com. Members will receive reminder emails regarding this information as well. All classes are free of charge and we encourage our members to partake in these virtual sessions and enjoy the com-pany of fellow colleagues. If you would like to become a member of our unit, please download a member application from our website or, if you are already a member and need to update your email and contact information, please email csalongislandretiree@gmail.com.

—karLa LandeSman marrero

7

On April 29, the unit had another informative Zoom membership meet-ing. In addition to hearing from leader, Rajinder Kaur and our Executive Board members, we were updated by our special guests: CSARC Director Mark Brodsky; Chair, Gayle Lockett; and Special VP Nancy Russo. We watched Karen Colavolpe present Part 2 of her cyber-se-curity presentation Shopping and Security on the Internet. Her Powerpoint offered preventive measures, suggested safety protections and recommended computer products. Our next Zoom membership meeting will be June 16 at 12 pm. Our guest speaker, Steve Kramer, will give us an overview of the new CSA Legal Service Plan. Finally, all Mid-Atlantic members should have already received their com-plimentary regional Unit face mask. We now have our own Mid-Atlantic logo. For information, questions or concerns, feel free to contact Rajinder Kaur at rkcsa11@gmail or (516) 343-9328.

—debra brown

MID ATLANTIC

Facts: Proposed New Retiree Plan

The current spread of half-truths and mis-information concerning a proposed change to health care for Medicare-eligible retirees fits per-fectly the phenomena Mr. Fogarty lampooned. I will present the facts about the proposed insur-ance change as they are known at this point. And I’ll try to answer some of your most com-mon questions.

In 1946, New York City committed to provid-ing free basic health care to all active in-service employees and their families as well as all retired employees receiving a pension and their fami-

BY LUCIE ELIO

We offer the following virtual classes/lectures to members, free, except for the last three. To register, email Retireeclasses@csa-nyc.org. List the event, including class/lecture’s title, your name, email and phone. Note: The Educational/Cultural Program will not offering any virtual presentation in August, but resumes in September.

Zoom Classes On Deck

Date Changes due unforeseen events May 10th: Walking Tour of New York – Matthew Green- 1:00 pm May 17th: Theodore & Eleanor Roosevelt – Howard Ehrlich – 10:30 am July 14th: (not June 30th) Books & Bagels – Beth Peller – 10:30 am June 2021 Virtual Program - Time: EST 6/1: Nooks and Crannies of NY – Justin Ferate – 1:00 6/7: The Roaring Twenties – Marilyn Carmino – 1:00 6/8: Rock ‘n’ Roll Part 3 – Richard Knox – 1:00 6/14: CSA Legal Service Plan Part 2 – FKM Law Firm – 1:00 6/15: Women of NY Part 2 – A & S Zuckerman - 1:00 6/21: Hearing Lost – K. Alexandra Schultz, audiologist – 1:00 6/23: Coney Island – Sal St. George – 1:00 6/28: The RMS Titanic…Her Final Days – Eco photo explorers – 1:00 7/1: Yankee Doodle Dandy – Sal St. George – 1:00

lies. This provision is a part of the city’s administrative code.

At this time, I am aware of only one other municipal / governmental entity that provides free basic health care for active employees, which is the Los Angeles County School District. To my knowledge, New York City is the sole remaining entity that provides free basic health care to retired employees.

As health care costs continue their astronomical rise, New York City has continued to provide free basic health care. The city has repeatedly tried to reduce benefits or require participant contribution, but through a series of healthcare savings agreements with the Municipal Labor Committee (MLC), representing the city’s unionized work force, adequate savings have been achieved, so far with no impact on retir-ees. During Mayor Bloomberg’s admin-istration, the City attempted to negoti-ate health care savings but would not use the savings to increase employees’ wages. Predictably, those efforts failed.

When Mayor de Blasio took office, all of approximately 152 unionized bar-gaining units in the city were working on expired contracts under terms of the Taylor Law. The new mayor promptly began negotiating health care savings with the MLC, but this time commit-ted to using the savings to settle union contracts. At that time several unions, including CSA and UFT, were one round of negotiations behind other unions. The initial savings agreement provided for over $3 billion in savings over four years. The brunt of the savings mea-sures fell on active employees, includ-ing increased health plan co-payments and direction to lower cost providers. None of these measures impacted retir-ees. Active and retired employees still do not pay for health care benefits.

In June 2018, a second health care savings agreement was reached, with a goal of $2.1 billion in additional savings. This agreement created the Tripartite Committee, with representa-tives from city government, the MLC, and an experienced arbitrator, tasked with finding ways to continue the pre-

mium-free health plans for active and retired employees. This agreement tar-geted recurring savings of $600 million per year on retiree health care costs.

In accordance with this mission, the city and MLC are undertaking an acqui-sition process consistent with city guide-lines to develop a health care plan that does not diminish coverage for retirees yet meets or exceeds the stated savings goal.

The proposed plan, which has been the focus of misinformation and scare tactics, is a result of these events. It is known as a MEDICARE ADVANTAGE plan, but to paraphrase an old Buick commercial, “It’s not your father’s Medicare Advantage plan.” The proposed plan is a group Medicare Advantage plan and completely different from the individual Medicare Advantage plans promoted by Joe Namath and oth-ers on cable television. It also is not a Medicare Advantage plan such as the HIP VIP plan, which requires use of in-network providers only, requires referrals to specialists and for most tests, and is very restrictive.

The proposed plan is known as a “passive PPO.” The major difference between the proposed plan and tradi-tional Medicare Advantage plans is that participants are free to go to any pro-vider who accepts Medicare and is not restricted to in-network providers. As a result, a major criticism of the plan -- that you will lose your right to select a doctor -- is categorically incorrect. Any provider, physician or hospital, can be used. Any referrals or approvals for testing will be obtained by the provider (as is done for pre-Medicare plans). The plan will cover you anywhere in the United States, and will include a Part D drug plan with monthly cost expected to be less than the current Senior Care cost.

Since there are likely to be “growing pains” as a new plan is implemented your ID card will have a concierge num-ber that your providers can call to verify coverage.

Dr. Douglas V. Hathaway is CSA Welfare Fund Administrator. You can email him at dhathaway@csa-nyc.org.

I have conducted several informational sessions with various retiree units, which will continue into June. So far, there are a number of common questions. Here they are, with my answers.

A: The City will save money since Medicare pro-vides a subsidy to Medicare Advantage plans that is not provided to Medicare supplement (MediGap) plans such as Senior Care. In addition, there are a number of wellness incentives, such as nutrition counseling and mobility programs such as Silver Sneakers that are included in the plan. As health outcomes improve, and par-ticipants are satisfied with the plan, subsidies improve. Additionally, Medicare saves money since they are not actually processing claims. The proposed plan will process the Medicare and supplemental reimbursement and participants will only receive one explanation of benefits.

Q: If our current doctors are not in the Advantage Plan can they refuse to accept us as patients even though the plan says that we can go to any Medicare doctor? Will our doctors be paid the same amount as they were with Original Medicare with and Emblem Health supplement?A: Under the current proposal, any doctor who par-ticipates with Medicare reimbursement as payment in full may be used. If your provider does not have a relationship with Medicare you will continue to be responsible for 100% of whatever is charged.

Q: Are final decisions made by the MLC?A: The final decision is made jointly by the MLC and the City of New York, as it is with any decision concerning employee/retiree health benefits. Both parties, and, in this case, likely the arbitrator who is part of the Tripartite agreement, must be in agreement.”

Q: When will this plan take effect?A: The original implementation date was July 1, 2021. That is clearly not reasonable or feasi-ble considering a vendor has not been selected and contracts have not been signed. Based on the complexity and scale of implementing any changes I would expect that implementation would be a minimum of 6 months after the con-tracts are executed.”

The Facts At This Time: New BenefitsContinued from previous page

Continued on next page

What You Need To Know

TRS sent out letters to all CSA mem-bers who must receive a required mini-mum distribution for 2021. If you wish to make any changes, you can do it online at the secure TRS website, or you can do it in that letter and mail it to TRS, at 55 Water Street, NY., NY 10041. (TRS staff are back in their offices. Anyone who wishes to go to the TRS office must make an appointment).

Many members have chosen to increase the amount deducted for federal

tax, instead of the defaulted 10 percent. But if you do not wish to make a change to the tax percentage, dollar amount wanted or date you wish to receive it, you don’t have to do anything.

You will receive a direct deposit on the last workday in December if you receive your pension through direct deposit. If you receive your pension by check in the mail, you will receive that check on or shortly after that date.

– Mark Brodsky

Required Minimum Distribution

391095_May 2021 CSA News_R1.indd 7 5/18/21 3:45 PM

MA

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1 Periodicals

US POSTAGE PAID ATBrooklyn, NY 11201and Additional Mailing Office

Council of School Supervisors & Administrators, NYCNew York State Federation of School AdministratorsLocal 1 AFSA, AFL-CIO40 Rector St., NY, NY 10006

Printed on FSC certified paper

n PS 023 Carter G. Woodson Principal Joseph Mattina with a parent and student who can sign up for free groceries through a school program launched earlier this year.

Brooklyn (DIST. 13-23,32)

Assistant Principal Paul Giordano and Principal Sharon Fishman at PS 55 Henry M. Boehm agreed to be doused

in green goo if the school raised $12,000 to help revamp the library and purchase new, culturally diverse books. Mr. Giordano orig-inally thought the goal might be too ambi-tious, but students and families raised $13,000 through a fundraiser to purchase 900 new books. Then, students and staff got to throw cups of slime at the administrators. The event was live streamed for remote students to par-ticipate. “It’s been a very traumatic time for everyone, so this really lightened things up,” Mr. Giordono said. “The kids were just laugh-ing, they couldn’t believe that they had the opportunity to do that”

Staten Island (D-31)

Have news about your school? Send an email to Chuck Wilbanks at chuck@csa-nyc.org.

Slimed For AGood Cause

Farming In The City

Borough Briefs / In The Schools Compiled by Emma Kate Fittes

Students at JHS 062 Ditmas are commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks by gathering sto-ries from their community. The proj-ect, developed by former educator and consultant Rose Reissman, is spanning several months and is overseen by a group of student leaders. It will culmi-nate in an oral history, book and dis-play of collective artifacts. Students are interviewing their family members and different ethnic groups, including the local Muslim community, to capture as many viewpoints as possible, said Principal Marielena Cipriano-Santiago. For her, the project is about capturing memories for future generations. Ms. Cipriano-Santiago was working in the school on Sept. 11. “You actually could see the papers flying, you could see the smoke,” she said. “9/11 really had an impact throughout the community.”

PS 023 Carter G. Woodson stu-dents are receiving free groceries every week through a food giveaway launched earlier this year. About a third of the ele-mentary school’s students live in tem-porary housing, said Principal Joseph Mattina, so it was important to help with food insecurity. Parents can sign up to receive fruit, vegetables, and other staple items – such as rice, beans, and cereal – every Thursday. “They’re my kids, it’s my family, and a lot of them have been struggling through COVID,” Mr. Mattina said. “I think some of them are embarrassed to ask for help, so find-ing an easy way for them to get help so that it’s not embarrassing -- I think that’s important.” The food is supplied by Agape Food Rescue, paid for by dona-tions from the Rothschild Group.

Rep. Hakeem Jeffries recently vis-ited PS 005 Dr. Ronald McNair to see the work students are doing and celebrate the opening of the elemen-tary school’s new supply pantry, which offers everything from crayons to book bags. Principal Lena Gates said she highlighted the ways their students are

Remembering 9/11, Entrepreneurs, And School Food Bank

Manhattan (DIST. 1-6)exposed to different careers, including flying planes and creating recipes for a restaurant. Students learn Mandarin. There’s a class on financial literacy for entrepreneurs. And students run their own in-school bookstore, meeting with local stores and banks to learn how to manage a business. So far, three stu-dents have started their own business, Gates said, including selling strawber-

Students at Central Park East II are growing rice, part of an effort to help them learn where their food comes from. The elementary students planted seed-lings in cups. Those attending in-person will transfer them to the school garden while those remote monitor from home. When it’s time to transplant, students will take a field trip to a rice paddy on Randall’s Island. The project is part of the three-year series hosted by the Randall’s Island Park Alliance. First graders learn about farming, second graders plant seeds, and third graders talk about nutri-tion and help harvest rice. The series ends with an event featuring rice dishes from around the world. “They learn that the food they eat is grown, you don’t get it from the store,” said Principal Naomi Smith. “There’s actually a progression, and they see the work.”

ries online and collecting used clothing. Gates said elementary school is the best time to start exploring professional life. “This is the age where you can plant the seed, where the students begin to under-stand that they can look at different careers,” she said. “We want them to see what the community has to offer and ... how what they’re learning is going to come back to help their community.”