RECENT MESSAGES
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT, SEPTEMBER 2024
A tale of two teachers. Two groups among us. Right here, right now. One hired many years ago, and one hired more recently. Their careers are in different places, as are their personal lives. They have their own personal interests, yet they must look out for each other.
As a labor union, we are often reminded of the importance of solidarity. As teachers, we often forget. Our profession is incredible. It’s everything you ever want. It’s everything you ever need. Unlike other professions, we are here for the duration, rarely exploring other avenues. We work together among friends, and we watch as others enter and exit through a revolving door. Lindenhurst is our workplace. But it feels like home.
Over the past ten years, we have encountered many challenges. I am extremely proud of what we have accomplished together during that time. When our teaching methods were under attack, we joined together with parents to combat the politicians. When our pensions were under attack, we joined administrators and board of education members to combat the same. Now, years of service are under attack. We will continue to support new hires in a campaign against Tier 6.
Teachers are seldom unprepared for what is expected. Never enough. We were even successful in negotiating and settling our current contract during a historic pandemic, something that many called impossible. We continue to work on accomplishing a settlement prior to September, 2025. It’s not impossible.
Solidarity is not exclusive to our members within. It also extends to other bargaining units. As part of the same labor movement, we must all acknowledge the fact that we are constantly under attack. It is no coincidence that the middle class is declining along with labor union membership. Solidarity across bargaining units is not a dream. It is an inevitable reality. ‘Cause we’re dreaming with our eyes wide open.
Make no mistake about it. Being a teacher is an incredible challenge at any age. But it’s always an adventure. That much I guarantee. To those who would separate the mutual benefits of both education and labor, I challenge you to reconsider. To those who would call this message radical. I make no apologies. This is me.
Congratulations to all of the new teachers among us. You have chosen your profession wisely. Congratulations as well to all of those who will soon be retiring. Be aware of our responsibilities to each other, as much as our responsibilities to ourselves. Let us reflect on what has made the Teachers’ Association of Lindenhurst one of the most successful teachers’ unions in New York State. And let us never forget the importance of solidarity in accomplishing that. From now on.
Respectfully Submitted,
Michael Pastore