To Our
Members

What a year it’s been. Together, we’ve scored major legislative wins that will make a real difference. We fought for increased funding for Career and Technical Education and mental health resources. We secured free school meals for every single child in New York. We won investments in our SUNY and CUNY campuses, and new support for community colleges.

And we led the charge for distraction-free schools; by getting cellphones and personal devices out of classrooms, we are creating space for students to focus, connect and thrive.

These victories happened because of you. We saw and heard the concerns you have for your students, your classrooms, your workplaces and communities. We brought those stories to Albany and — along with your relentless advocacy — fought for solutions that would make a difference. When NYSUT members speak up, lawmakers listen.

Summer isn’t just about celebrating the wins — it’s about preparing for what’s next. That includes reconnecting with the joy that fuels our work.

Not every NYSUT member gets a traditional summer break but, this season, whether you’re hiking, traveling, gardening, reading for pleasure or simply enjoying slower mornings, I hope you are able to embrace unstructured time for play.

It’s not just a personal act — it’s a human need. That’s why NYSUT launched the Power of Play campaign this spring, to ensure students in New York have guaranteed time for recess. Because in order to grow and progress, people — of all ages — need space to move, imagine and reset.

As you savor the weeks ahead, know that NYSUT is already building momentum for the fall — organizing, supporting and advocating for you. We’ll be rested. We’ll be ready. And, as always, we’ll be united.

In solidarity,

Melinda

@MelindaJPerson
MelindaJPerson