Commack security guards affiliate with NYSUT

t was the straw that broke the camel’s back. After decades on the job and unblemished work records, in early spring two Commack School District security guards were let go for a mistake their colleagues considered a minor oversight.

“One guy was in his 80’s and doing overnights and they basically bullied him to resign — it just wasn’t right,” said security guard Joe Hendrickson.

The action accomplished in a matter of weeks what Hendrickson and fellow security guard Tom McFadzen had sought for the last seven years — it convinced the guards to unionize. “A couple of guards were hesitant … but as soon as I mentioned the guards forced out, they signed on,” said Hendrickson.

The group reached out to NYSUT since “they work in schools and are more in line with what we do,” said McFadzen noting that, like educators, the guards’ chief concern is the well-being of students.

The 65-member Commack Security Guards Association provides 24/7 security year-round for the district’s eight schools and one district office building.

Once the guards made the decision to organize things moved quickly, said Hendrickson, a retired New York City Police Department patrol officer and former benevolent association rep. They held several informational meetings to explain their options, and NYSUT organizer Alexandra Castillo-Kesper and labor relations specialist Tom Glenn were on hand to answer questions.

District acceptance went smoothly with the school board recognizing the local without challenge. The Commack SGA elected an executive committee in late June. Hendrickson will lead as local president and McFadzen as first vice president. The next step: Secure a contract.

“We’re experts in our field and lots of us live in the district and have a vested interest in it and the students,” said McFadzen, who retired as an NYPD detective after 22 years. “Also, better salary and benefits and things like days off and personal days.”

“Job protection is important,” said Hendrickson. “It’s time for us to get our seat at the table.”