After Class Podcast NYC
By Lydia Howrilka
After Class Podcast NYCSep 24, 2021
Episode 13: Talkin' It Out with Peter Zucker of South Bronx School Blog
Johnny, Lydia, and Eric interview South Bronx School blogger Peter Zucker about his blogging, activism, and what he wants the UFT to do for members.
Episode 12: Teacher Preparation Programs
Lydia, Johnny, and Eric discuss their experiences in traditional and alternative teaching programs. They also discuss what needs to be changed to better prepare young teachers for the demands of the profession.
Episode 11: Reflections on the Health and Safety Rally at the October 2021 Delegate Assembly
Johnny and Eric interview Lydia about her experiences participating in the 10/13/2021 Health and Safety Rally organized by Retiree Advocate, MORE, Solidarity, New Action, and Educators for NYC. They then talk about the Delegate Assembly and why voting in this school year's UFT election is essential.
Episode 10: Talking it Out- Francesco Portelos
Francesco Portelos founded UFT Solidarity in 2014 and has defended public education via his blog and in the courts. What is he up to now since stepping away from leadership and involvement in UFT Solidarity? Johnny and Lydia find out.
Episode 9: Reflecting on September and Teaching in the Time of COVID
Lydia, Johnny, and Eric talk about how things are proceeding in their schools; health and safety issues; the NYC teachers' unions (in)action; and hopes for the year.
Episode 8: Talking it Out with the Teacher Protection Group
Johnny, Lydia, and Eric compare war stories, tales of unionism, and teaching in the time of COVID with Michael Hull and Chris Bianchi, founders of the Teacher Protection Project.
Episode 7: Preception verses Reality- The Start of the School Year
Lydia, Johhny, and Eric talk about the beginning of the academic year, Professional Development, unrealistic expectations on teachers, and their hopes for a safe school year.
Episode 6: Talking it Out- Crystal Hudson
We interview City Council candidate and Brooklyn native Crystal Hudson on her journey into public service, equity, public education, school choice, remote learning, colocation, and more.
Episode 5: Pension and Investment Options for UFT Members
Eric and Johnny lead a discussion on the pension plan for NYC educators, taking advantage of your TDA, and assorted investment options. Great for new teachers and seasoned UFT members alike, this is a must-listen-to episode.
Episode 4: James Eterno Talks UFT History
James Eterno, UFT activist and one of the founders of the ICE UFT blog & caucus, speaks candidly to Johnny and Lydia regarding UFT history, union democracy, and his hopes for the 2022 UFT Election.
Episode 3: COVID in the Classroom
How should schools handle reopening in Fall 2021 in the wake of the Delta varient? It's not as simple as you think.... Johnny, Eric, and Lydia break it down for you on this electrifying episode of "After Class."
Episode 2: Dissenting Voices in the Union
In which Lydia, Johnny, and Eric talk about the impact of the 2021 Retiree Election, the lack of democracy in the Delegate Assembly meetings, how Unity caucus has maintained control, and what we can do about it.
Episode 1: Welcome to After Class Podcast NYC!
Meet Eric, Johnny, and Lydia- union-proud NYC public school educators. We are bringing you a new podcast for educators devoted to fighting for strong, healthy, safe, and equitable schools. While we do focus a lot on NYC and NYS educational issues, we believe that our podcast has something for everyone.