New Head of StateTeachers Union Seeks Greater Political Clout

By
Karen DeWitt
SchoolBook | Apr 7, 2014

Karen Magee was elected president of the state’s largest teachers union, replacing Richard Ianuzzi who served in the role for almost 10 years.

An outspoken critic of the state's implementation of the new Common Core learning standards, Magee said teachers were not adequately prepared to teach material aligned to the new standards and, as a result, she opposed using test results to evaluate teachers.

Magee told delegates over the weekend that she would be more vocal than her predecessor: “It is time for NYSUT to exert itself as a powerful political force once again."

Magee said teachers were unhappy about state budget decisions that reduced school funding and overall morale was low.

“They are upset, they’re frustrated, they feel disrespected,” Magee said of the state's teachers.

Profile Image
Karen DeWitt

WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

WNYC Homepage - Top Stories

Knicks title run could overlap with World Cup, causing potential headaches at Penn Station

The busy train hub beneath Madison Square Garden could turn into a mess if the region hosts a World Cup and NBA Finals game on the same day.
Gothamist |

Gov. Hochul's Climate Law Rollback

Jon Campbell reports that the state may loosen the emissions goals in the landmark 2019 climate law.
The Brian Lehrer Show |

A Documentary Shadows the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team in the Leadup to the World Cup

All Of It with Alison Stewart |

New Jerseyans who take ADHD meds face a return to pre-pandemic prescription rules

Starting Saturday, people who take medications such as Adderall and Ritalin will again need to see a doctor in person for prescriptions.
WNYC News |

How they handle crises in Brownsville, often without police

At least twice a year, nonprofit workers from the neighborhood spend a week calming disputes and responding to most 311 and 911 calls on certain blocks in the neighborhood.
WNYC News |
YOU ARE ONLINE