Letter to the Editor: Ossining Teachers Association Endorses Melstein

To the editor:

Last year was the first time that the Ossining Teachers Association (OTA) endorsed candidates for the role of Board of Education Trustee (BOE) and are continuing with our endorsement efforts this year. We feel this is an important step toward building a more cohesive and collaborative relationship with the Board of Education.

As educators, we have dedicated our lives and careers to our students and want nothing more than to see all Ossining students have successful and enjoyable school experiences. We know the importance of a school district with a strong infrastructure where schools function as a cohesive system. We know the importance of clear and consistent communication, procedures, and systems, especially in a district such as Ossining where the Princeton Plan is utilized. With students transitioning buildings every few years, consistency and alignment is imperative for their success. We know the importance of collaboration with all stakeholders to make positive changes that move our school district forward. The Ossining Teachers Association is dedicated to collaborative problem solving with all district leaders.

Robert Melstein shares in this dedication to collaborate with all stakeholders to improve education for all students. Robert has a keen eye for identifying potential challenges and brainstorming solutions that can help the district continue to move in a positive direction. Robert is an excellent listener and is open to hearing the perspectives of others. We are particularly appreciative of Robert’s receptiveness to a partnership with teachers that allows us to share our feedback directly. We are in the classroom each day instructing students and see firsthand where our district’s strengths lie and recognize areas in need of improvement. The Ossining Teachers Association is endorsing Robert because of his genuine interest in the voice of the teachers. We believe that Robert’s perspective and his ability to also consider perspectives of teachers, students, and families would enhance the discussions and decisions made at the Board of Education table.

Robert has taken the key points of his campaign and formed them into “Rob’s Plan.” OTA stands behind his plan and agrees with the importance of each area.

(R) stands for reading, writing and math. As educators, we know the importance of building foundational skills in these areas which leads to students’ continued academic success during their school career. We know the importance of using a curriculum that meets the needs of our students and making sure that educators are fully equipped to lead instruction in these areas.

(O) stands for occupational and skilled trades education to offer multiple student graduation pathways. All students should feel prepared for life after leaving the Ossining schools, whether it be through a college, career, or a skilled trade pathway. Educators know that each child has unique strengths and requires different venues to be successful, both in school and in life beyond the classroom.

(B) stands for better communication and engagement opportunities between the district and the community. We want the community to hear about our strengths and celebrate all the good happening in our schools. We also want the community to understand the challenges of the day to day life in the classroom, with new programs and initiatives, and work together to overcome obstacles.

(S) stands for sound financial management, maximizing the use of funding while giving our students and staff what they need to succeed. We recognize the importance of careful analysis and planning of funds to create programs and equip staff to address the academic and social emotional needs of our students.

On May 16th, members of the Ossining community will have the opportunity to make a difference in the education of the children of Ossining. Votes for Robert Melstein, the OTA endorsed school board trustee candidate, ensure that the future of Ossining will be a brighter one. Robert has demonstrated his dedication to the Ossining community and values the partnership between the BOE and OTA in the path toward greater outcomes for all of our schools.

Every vote matters! Make yours count!

Vanessa Vaccaro
President, Ossining Teachers Association