Getting to know ... Bruce Zeller
Bruce Zeller is a microcomputer repair technician at the Kenmore–Town of Tonawanda Union Free School District. He was interviewed by Jill Ackerman, acting president of the Kenmore– Tonawanda School Employees Association and a member of NYSUT's SRP Advisory Committee.
Tell us about your job and why you love what you do.
I enjoy the daily challenges of being a computer repair tech and the satisfaction when all systems function correctly. Each day is something different and a new set of challenges. I handle anything, from installing backbone infrastructure to end user equipment, including desktops and projection and sound equipment. I enjoy the contact with all levels, from the staff, students and administration to solve problems.
How are you involved with your union?
I feel it is important to make people aware of the issues that involve our daily work lives. The union is the best way to contact people with similar interests and concerns. It is very special to be able to discuss these issues to get various points of view that pertain to the many and varied groups that make up our union and then be able to come to a consensus decision that benefits us all.
How do you make a difference?
No matter what the situation, I feel that I am a positive influence on everyone I contact each day. I am able to solve problems and leave people with a smile on their face.
Tell us about your community engagement, hobbies.
I enjoy farming, spending time with my family and friends as well as working on home repairs and projects. I am the president of our church congregation and a former fireman.
NYSUT celebrates School-Related Professionals Day winner
The Peekskill Faculty Association, led by Jose Fernandez, celebrates the district's School-Related Professionals with displays and breakfast pastries on SRP Recognition Day in November. The effort earned the FA first place in NYSUT's SRP Recognition Day contest. Two members can now attend NYSUT's 2018 SRP Conference for the price of one.
NYSUT Second Vice President Paul Pecorale meets recently with members of the union's School-Related Professionals Advisory Committee at NYSUT headquarters in Latham. The committee advises NYSUT about the issues important to the statewide union's 91,000 SRP members, including professional development, communications, political action and workplace safety. Committee members are appointed by the NYSUT president based on recommendations made by election district directors. They serve three-year terms. Photo by El-Wise Noisette.