  |
| |
|
Support for new members Some of the literature available for new members. Feburary 17, 2005 When new teaching assistants and teacher aides are hired in the Horseheads district, one of their first stops is a meeting with Jennie Houck. "I give them the name of a person they can go to in their own building, also a list of union reps and important telephone numbers," said Houck, coordinator of the Horseheads School Services Association's new-member program. In addition to learning the ropes of their new jobs, whether as a teaching assistant or a one-on-one classroom aide, new members receive a union orientation. "The union plays a very important role in them having and keeping their job and having the benefits that come along with their job," Houck said. "Also, if there is a problem, they know there is someone they can turn to for help." New York State United Teachers offers several resources to new members, including its union-based partner programs. "Partner programs are one of the best ways for local unions to educate new members about their place in the union," said NYSUT President Tom Hobart. "New members who are able to connect with the union's professional veterans are more likely to get involved and become active union and community members." Locals reach out to new members through union-sponsored workshops, trainings and social events to make sure they know the union belongs to them. The connection is also important so new members are aware of their rights. "Job security is a big concern and we've had some problems with job descriptions; they really don't know what their role is until it's on paper," said Judy Merrow, a teaching assistant and building rep with the Horseheads local. The 62-member Southern Tier local, led by Jo Ellen Clark, has been successful in getting new members involved in the union, another program goal. "Of our seven building reps, three are new members," Clark said. "It's important that new members know what their rights are and that the union is there for them." |
|
| | |