Candidate Statements:
President:
Election is on Friday 6/7
Matt Adler (incumbent):
Dan Hayden:
When I began teaching in Seaford 29 years ago, just starting out my career, I was like most new teachers. I was excited, eager and enthusiastic. I quickly learned that my brand new salary, percentage increases, step movement, lane changes, working conditions and all the protections and camaraderie that a union brings started decades before. Over the years, as a union, we have fought hard to keep the things we value and to improve where we can. Sometimes negotiations were difficult - buttons, going to Board of Education meetings and picketing. Sometimes negotiations went a little more smoothly. Through it all though, our fellow colleagues - serving as Building Reps. and officers - have been dedicated and determined to help our members by continually trying to improve our salaries, working conditions, and provide protection and support when needed. I am asking for your support in electing me President of the United Teachers of Seaford so that we can continue this difficult, challenging and rewarding work together. I would bring some unique experience to this position. I have been a Building Representative, Administrative Secretary, Elementary Vice President and Secondary Vice President. I would like to put my experience to work for all of you. Having been a member of the negotiating team for three different contracts, I am very comfortable sitting across from the Superintendent, Board of Education members, or district lawyers. Knowing that there are over 240 members behind us is what gives power to our voice. However, we must stay unified. One goal I have is to bring more unity and camaraderie to our membership. We have to work together to achieve our common goals. We have to support each other and look to each other for that support. Please know that you will always be able to count on me to support you. Another goal is to ensure that we are recognized and treated as the professionals we are. Teachers are the most valuable asset a school district has. We should be valued and compensated for that. I will also fight for you to maintain the many great benefits we have. Please know that I will work everyday to try to make our collective experience a more positive one in every way that I can. I hope I can count on your support on Friday, June 7th. Thank you, Dan Hayden |