United Teachers of Northport President Antoinette Blanck urges all R-UTN member become aware of development in Albany that affect us as union members and retirees.

As we approach the conclusion of the school year, there have been several developments out of Albany which require our attention. Please note that each item is a “work in progress.” The UTN will continue to monitor each situation, investigate and initiate/continue necessary conversations to facilitate appropriate resolutions. Continue reading →

Beginning July 1, a new state law requires all permanently or professionally certified teachers and Level III teaching assistants, working in public schools or BOCES, to register online with the State Education Department. All certified teaching professionals, including retirees, should become familiar with the new ruling and take steps to retain certifications.

New York State Parks are waiving daily vehicle fees for fourth-graders and their families for this year. The state also will pick up the transportation costs for children of all ages, from K–12, who live in disadvantaged areas. A $500,000 program included in the new budget, “Every Kid in a Park” also covers historic sites and state DEC lands. The family of fourth-graders can apply for passes at everykidinapark.gov and schools can request transportation grants to reimburse bus costs, tolls and entrance fees starting July 1.