BTA Delegates Advocate for Members at the 2026 NYSUT Representative Assembly

Earlier this month, the BTA was well-represented in Albany as BTA President Paul George and Secretary Jeannie Sherman joined thousands of educators and healthcare professionals for the 2026 NYSUT Representative Assembly. Held from May 1–2, the assembly serves as the union’s highest policy-making body, where delegates from across New York State gather to debate resolutions and set the legislative agenda for the coming year.
Under the banner of "Democracy, Solidarity, Action," the two-day event featured high-level discussions on the future of public education. A major highlight was the address by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, who provided a reassuring update on the state pension system. DiNapoli noted that New York’s pensions remain the best-funded in the country and credited the relentless advocacy of members for the growing momentum to finally Fix Tier 6. He signaled that because of this collective pressure, meaningful changes to retirement security are within reach.
The assembly also took a firm stand on the evolving needs of the modern classroom. Delegates approved a bold proposal calling for a $22.5 million state investment to revitalize civics education and media literacy. This initiative aims to ensure students are "democracy-ready" by supporting the Seal of Civic Readiness and guaranteeing that every school has a certified library media specialist. Furthermore, in response to growing concerns over student well-being, the body passed resolutions advocating for limited screen time and the protection of unstructured, play-based learning.
Beyond policy and pedagogy, the RA was a forum for labor rights and social justice. Second Vice President Ron Gross highlighted the "One Job Should Be Enough" campaign, which seeks to ensure that all educators and staff earn a salary that allows them to live with economic dignity. The assembly also demonstrated the "Union for Life" philosophy with a moving standing ovation for colleagues facing immigration challenges, reinforcing the message that the union will always stand together to protect its own.
Financially, the organization remains on solid ground. Secretary-Treasurer J. Philippe Abraham reported that NYSUT’s financial strength is the bedrock that allows the union to defend members' rights and provide high-quality benefits.
President George and Secretary Sherman have returned from Albany with a clear roadmap for the year ahead. Their participation ensures that the voices of BTA members are not only heard in local boardrooms but are also a driving force in the halls of the State Capitol. As Vice President Gross reminded the assembly, educators are not just witnesses to the challenges of 2026 - they are the authors of the solution.