ALBANY, N.Y. Jan. 29, 2007 - New York State United Teachers today responded to Gov. Eliot Spitzer's address outlining his vision for education.
NYSUT President Richard C. Iannuzzi said:
"NYSUT supports the governor's emphasis on the 3Rs - reform, resources and results. We all need to be accountable to make this work.
"We strongly support Gov. Spitzer's concept of a contract that emphasizes excellence and equity for all our children. Teachers know what works and Gov. Spitzer has been listening. Smaller class sizes, pre-K education and quality teacher preparation are elements of a well-researched lesson plan for excellence. We applaud Gov. Spitzer's plan to resolve the Campaign for Fiscal Equity case by committing to additional resources based on student need on a statewide basis.
"We look forward to working with the governor and the Legislature on implementing this bold initiative."
NYSUT Executive Vice President Alan B. Lubin also welcomed Spitzer's comments, saying: "We heard a strong commitment today, a commitment that bodes well for New York's children, its citizens and its future."
NYSUT is the state's largest union and only statewide teachers union. Its 575,000 members include teachers, paraprofessionals and academic and professional faculty in higher education. NYSUT is affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers, National Education Association and the AFL-CIO.