President's Notes by Tomia Smith (Oct/Nov, 2007)

September has come and gone with the usual mix of emotions that educators experience with the beginning of a new school year. After learning at Superintendent's Conference Day of the many new programs, series, revised curricula and expectations, the feeling that stands out most must be one of angst.

Each year we are presented with new initiatives requiring additional time and responsibilities; however, we are rarely relieved of any former obligation in order to help us in finding the time needed to see that these "better mouse traps" are reaching their full potential. In order to keep up, one must hit the floor running. That first bell of each year is becoming more like the starting bell of the first race at Belmont than a warning bell, but with more at stake than a two-dollar bet.

Unfortunately, there are no quick fixes or easy answers but we must continue to address it with hopes of seeing improvements that both administration and our members can appreciate.

MAKING STRIDES BREAST CANCER WALK

So, off I went only to come to a dead stop at the drawbridge on the Meadowbrook. This prompted the debate to begin again. But I continued on, finally hooking up with fellow MFT members from Fairfield. I was feeling quite proud of myself and enjoying the beautiful day walking with friends for a good cause.

But then, I began people watching. I saw people of various ages wearing a sash reading "Survivor". One young woman looked to be about my daughter's young age of 19. There were also those wearing t-shirts with pictures of loved ones who were not there to wear a survivor sash. Groups of cheerleaders, sports teams, teachers, hospital staff, private businesses and families were all showing support for someone through buttons, t-shirts, banners or flags. I suddenly became very humbled when I realized that this day was about much more than fundraising. It was about providing a very special occasion for us to honor loved ones lost and to offer encouragement and support for those who are in the midst of the battle.

I would like to thank Janeen Signorili for her efforts in bringing new awareness to this NYSUT endorsed event and those who chose to get out of bed early that Sunday morning and join us. If you would like to contribute to this event, you can send donations to Janeen Signorili at Birch Lane until November 16th. If you were not able to join us on the boardwalk, please make a point of signing on to this annual event next year. I guarantee that you will find it most rewarding.

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