AFT-Speeches

Shanker takes questions about issues facing early childhood education and his view points about day care centers. Shanker’s main points are that there needs standardization in early childhood education and that those responsible for teaching Pre-K education need to take a more active stance in politics, on the local level as well as the national. The conversation does however flow through various aspects of educating immigrants, paraprofessionals and funding public and private day care facilities.

Al Shanker and James Harris, president of the NEA, are interviewed by moderator John Merrow. They discuss the differences between their organizations and the possibility for merger. Some of the differences they discuss are secret ballot elections, affiliations with the AFL-CIO and CAPE (Coalition of Public Employees), quotas and affirmative action, and problems in the educational system. The vigorous debate reaches no consensus.

Al Shanker comments before the the Senate Sub-Committee on Children and Youth and the House Subcommittee on Special Education Programs on proposed bills S. 626 and H.R. 2966, legislation that would establish a national daycare plan. Shanker disagrees with the approaches outlined in the bills. Instead, Shanker believes that such a plan should be run through the public school system. He outlines a number of reasons why the schools are the appropriate vehicle for this vital service.

Al Shanker discusses the current economic crisis in New York City. He states that much of the blame lies with the federal government for its poor policies toward New York City and for the fact that percentage wise New York City gets less federal funding than other cities and states in the country. Shanker urges the House to pass a bill to help right the situation by creating public employment opportunities.

In this speech, Al Shanker addresses the difficult budget situation facing New York at the time. He talks about various bills in the legislature that might help the economic situation. He also talks about the NYSUT's organization and strength. He praises the staff, and he urges the members to remain loyal to the NYSUT rather than go over to the NEA. He states that a consolidated union will be more effective.