PRESIDENT Candidate Statements
Election is on Friday 5/29
|
Matt Adler:
I am proud to announce my candidacy for UTS President. For 26 years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching mathematics at Seaford High School — and for nearly as long, I’ve had the true honor of getting to know and work alongside some of the most dedicated passionate educators this district has to offer. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to serve our union in many meaningful ways:
Together, we’ve accomplished so much. Through my leadership: We helped ensure safe working conditions during COVID. We’ve supported members through challenging moments and made sure their rights were always protected. We’ve negotiated contracts that delivered the largest raises our local has seen since the tax cap was enacted. And in partnership with NYSUT, we celebrated an incredible win-successfully lowering the Tier 6 retirement age from 63 to 58. That victory showed what we can achieve when we stand together! Our union is at an exciting crossroads. There is so much more we can accomplish for our members, our schools, and our community. I believe we deserve a union that’s ahead of the curve: one that’s strategic, solutions focused and always working to make our professional life better before challenges arise. Administration continues to grow while educators are being asked to do more with less. We are stretched thin, our voices are too often drowned out, and we find ourselves responding to problems instead of preventing them. I have seen it firsthand in our own hallways. It is time to stop being reactive. It is time to start being proactive. I have a bold, positive vision for the UTS. One centered on protecting members, strengthening our contract, amplifying every voice, and building the kind of union we’re all proud to be part of. My vision for the union is one in which gives every member a voice. I am ready to serve. I am ready to lead. I am excited to work alongside each and every one of you to move the UTS forward, together. I humbly ask for your support. |
|
Curtis Tripoli:
This year, I decided not to seek another term as the UTS Administrative Secretary (now the Public Relations Secretary). The position has evolved in positive ways, and I believe it’s time for a younger, more social-media-savvy (if slightly less good-looking) member to take the reins. I’m making this decision for the same reason I have always chosen to be involved in our union: to serve the membership and help strengthen our organization. I believe we can continue to expand our communication, visibility, and engagement with members. With that same commitment, I am running for UTS President. I am running largely on my reputation. Over the years, I have built positive working relationships with many of you throughout the district. For those who may not know me well, I am confident that my experiences have prepared me to represent our members effectively. During my 26 years as a teacher, 20 years on the UTS Executive Board, eight years as Art Department Chairperson (two lame years as a Lead Teacher), and now in my attendance position, I have faced a wide range of challenges that required thoughtful problem-solving, collaboration, and decision-making in the best interests of the people I work alongside. Additionally, my wife and daughter are both elementary school teachers. I am very aware and invested in both new and “experienced” (old) teacher issues and concerns (I hear about them every, single, day). Together with an experienced and dedicated team around me, I am confident that I can represent this membership with my full commitment in doing what is best for all. Thank you for taking the time to read this and consider my candidacy. By doing so, some of you may have taken your first step toward becoming more involved in your union. I’m simply looking to take the next step in my own service to our membership. Thank you for your consideration. Curtis Tripoli Candidate for UTS President |