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What Every New NYSUT Member Should Know

Tens of thousands of New York State United Teachers members have been on the job for three years or less. This column will appear periodically to address your union- or work-related questions.

What is VOTE-COPE? Is that another deduction?

VOTE-COPE (Voice of Teachers in Education - Committee on Political Education) is the union's non-partisan political action committee. Members voluntarily contribute to the fund, which supports the election of pro-education candidates and grass-roots lobbying. Union dues are not used for political action.

Through VOTE-COPE, the professional and personal lives of our members are improved. This year, for example, VOTE-COPE helped secure a permanent, automatic Cost-of-Living Adjustment for all retirees, and legislation to eliminate the 3 percent mandatory contribution for members of Tiers 3 and 4 (those with 10 years of retirement system membership).

VOTE-COPE is your political action committee - it is your voice in Albany, Washington and at home. (Source: NYSUT Legislation Department.)

What is the difference between a Regents diploma and an IEP diploma? Should I know if a student in my class is working under an IEP?

Beginning in 2001, all students must pass five Regents Exams to graduate with a Regents diploma, (two in social studies and one each in math, science and English). An Individualized Education Program diploma may be awarded to students with disabilities who are unable to complete the Regents diploma requirements.

Teachers who have students with a disability in their classes should be informed of such and given access to the students' IEPs. (Source: NYSUT Research and Educational Services Department.)

What is my local union's relationship to NYSUT and the AFT?

Your local union is an autonomous organization whose members have chosen to affiliate with New York State United Teachers on the state level and the American Federation of Teachers on the national level for the benefits, services and representation they provide.

Your local union is your bargaining agent and is responsible for negotiating terms and conditions of employment with your employer. NYSUT assists with negotiations and helps administer the resulting collective bargaining agreement. NYSUT also provides legal assistance and representation to ensure your rights are protected.

Additionally, NYSUT, based in Albany, and the AFT, based in Washington, D.C., provide a full range of services, research, benefit programs and publications. Their staffs represent your interests before a variety of state and federal agencies, including the State Education and Labor departments; the state Legislature; and Congress. (Source: The office of the NYSUT president.)

Send your questions on union- or work-related issues to Mentor, New York Teacher, Box 15008, 159 Wolf Road, Albany, N.Y. 12212-5008; or e-mail nyteach@nysutmail.org.

- Clarisse Butler