AFT Convention- Eleven SVFT delegates attended the convention in Chicago July 10-14. Elections for AFT officers took place on Sunday and Randi Weingarten was elected to replace retiring AFT President Edward McElroy. Our own Sharon Palmer, President of AFT-CT, was elected to serve as an AFT Vice-President. A high point of the convention took place on Saturday when Senator Hilary Clinton addressed the more than 3000 delegates and was enthusiastically received. Barack Obama, presumptive democratic presidential nominee, addressed us via a remote television connection on Sunday. Delegates were required to attend morning and afternoon sessions. The evening receptions were optional. Watch for the SVFT delegates summaries in the next edition of the Vocational Instructor.
AFL-CIO 7th Biennial Political Convention - was held on June 23rd and 24th at the Hartford Hilton. Senator Dodd gave an enthusiastic speech noting that we need to be diligent in our work with respect to protecting pensions.
Teacher of the Year- Jim Gallo, Carpentry Department Head at Ellis Tech, has been chosen the CTHSS Teacher of the Year. Congratulations Jim!
New Teacher Orientation- We have been informed that approximately 75 new teachers will be hired before the start of the school year. SVFT officers will make a presentation on August 20 and welcome all of the Systems new teachers at that time.
Office Schedule Modified- The SVFT leadership has been working on revising their office schedule. One or more of the full-time officers will be in the SVFT office most days to answer your calls and address your concerns.
ENJOY THE REMAINDER OF YOUR SUMMER BREAK! Stay healthy; wear sun block!