As a Yonkers Teacher, and as a member of both the Yonkers Federation of Teachers (YFT) and New York State United Teachers (NYSUT), I would like to thank you for your leadership and action in getting A.68A through the legislature and to the Governor’s desk for signature.

Considering the teacher shortage that exists in New York and nationwide, your support and understanding of the crisis as a lifelong educator has made a difference in our profession, the lives of our students, and the future of our communities.

Given the changing demographics of our students both in Yonkers and the rest of the state, recruiting teachers in underrepresented groups will undoubtedly have a positive impact on our students, as well as the pursuit of social and economic justice. Your partnership with the YFT and NYSUT for initiatives like Grow Your Own has been instrumental in helping to bring about these successes.

Thank you once again for your strong, consistent commitment to public education!