Recent headlines and archived news articles regarding newsworthy events and announcements from the BENTE Union:
See below for information on our BENTE Swag Store, open Nov 6, 2024-Nov 27, 2024!
► read morePlease see below for a message from BENTE's President, Angelo Palmerini.
► read morePlease see below for News 10 coverage on our President Emeritus, Daniel DiClemente.
► read morePlease see the attached flyer for details regarding our June 2024 Membership Picnic!
► read moreDue to a scheduling conflict, the March membership meeting date is changed.
► read moreBENTE's President Emeritus, Daniel DiClemente, was honored at the Rochester Labor Council Annual Delegates Awards Dinner!
► read morePlease see below for December happenings.
► read morePlease see below for updates from BENTE President Ange Palmerini.
► read morePlease see below for information on how to sign up or renew your BJ's membership at a discount thanks to your union membership!
► read moreFree admission to the Memorial Art Gallery on Oct. 1, 2023. Registration required! Click for details!
► read morePlease see below for updates from President Ange Palmerini.
► read morePlease see below for updates from BENTE President Angelo Palmerini.
► read morePlease see below for information regarding our end of year picnic for BENTE members!
► read morePlease see below for important news from BENTE President Daniel DiClemente
► read moreSee below for updates from BENTE President Daniel DiClemente.
► read moreSee below for updates from President Dan DiClemente.
► read moreSee below for updates from BENTE President Daniel DiClemente.
► read moreBrother Dan, President of BENTE and AFSCME Council 66 is recognized for all of his hard work as one of The State Labor Power 100 (#48) in NYS! Congratulations to our tireless leader on this well-deserved recognition!
► read moreNews 10 piece on Deverin Dillon and Sandra Beasley being honored at City Council meeting for their quick actions responding to the shooting at the entrance of Franklin.
► read moreBENTE Brother Deverin Dillon and Sister Sandra Beasley talk about their experience with the shooting at the entrance to Franklin with 13WHAM.
► read moreSee below for an article from Spectrum news. Dr. Carmine Peluso is the Acting Superintendent for the RCSD.
► read moreSee below for an article from the Democrat and Chronicle about Superintendent Leslie Myers-Small exiting the RCSD.
► read moreSee below for an update from BENTE President Daniel DiClemente.
► read moreSee below for updates from BENTE President Daniel DiClemente regarding topics such as retro pay and summer school staffing, among others
► read moreSee below for updates from President Daniel DiClemente on a variety of topics.
► read moreSee below for an update from BENTE President Daniel DiClemente.
► read moreSee below for how to register for an online meeting if you are considering retirement.
► read moreSee below for an update from BENTE President Daniel DiClemente.
► read moreSee below for the recent media release from RCSD regarding financial incentives for BENTE members regarding recruitment and retention of employees in positions within our union.
► read moreSee below for a letter to the RCSD Superintendent and Board of Education present, sent by the presidents of all four of the district's unions.
► read moreSee below for an update from President Daniel DiClemente.
► read moreSee the flier below for information about Judy Keysa's upcoming retirement.
► read morePlease see below for a recent email update from our union president, Dan DiClemente
► read moreSee below for an article from the Democrat and Chronicle on the bus driver shortage and some of the causes of the current busing crisis.
► read moreSee below for an update from President Daniel DiClemente
► read moreSee below for information about OMNI, the RCSD vendor for 403(b) retirement savings plans.
► read moreSee below for an article from Spectrum news about the importance of BENTE staff to RCSD and the openings in various BENTE units.
► read moreSee below for an article from Rochesterfirst.com on the school bus driver shortage and how that may affect that start date and transportation for RCSD students.
► read moreSee below for an article from the Rochester City Newspaper on the shortage of workers, BENTE food service workers, and their important role in feeding the students in the RCSD.
► read moreSee below for information on raises as a result of the new Collective Bargain Agreement as well as information on the RCSD COVID-19 vaccination and testing policies.
► read moreSee below for updates from BENTE President Daniel DiClemente.
► read morePlease see below for an update from Daniel DiClemente, BENTE President.
► read moreSee below for a information about a blood drive in honor of Kailee Kwiecien.
► read moreSee below for information from President Daniel DiClemente regarding a vaccination opportunity for BENTE members on March 9 and 10, 2021.
► read moreSee below for a News 10 WHEC story on the poor quality lunches RCSD students are receiving. The district's decision to lay off food service workers is largely responsible for the poor quality food our students are currently suffering with.
► read moreSee the Spectrum News piece which references the death of a BENTE member and the temporary remote learning plan for School 29.
► read moreSee below for more news about the current problems with lunches in RCSD
► read morePlease see below for obituary information for Marian Sosa.
► read moreSee below for information on how the earlier lay-offs of Food Service workers are now impacting RCSD students. Some Food Service workers are being called back, but not enough.
► read moreClick below for a Democrat and Chronicle article regarding some employee recalls.
► read moreSee below for information on an upcoming COVID-19 Health and Safety forum, to be held Wednesday, February 3, 2021.
► read morePlease see below for information about COVID-19 vaccines and where BENTE members fall in the NYS Governor's prioritization.
► read moreSee below for news coverage regarding the RCSD plans to move through the pandemic with hybrid and remote learning models.
► read moreSee below for information on free rapid testing for COVID-19 on THURSDAY, DEC 17!
► read morePlease see below for an update from President Dan DiClemente.
► read moreSee below for a WHEC 10 article on holiday gifts for laid-off workers.
► read morePlease see below for updates from President Dan DiClemente regarding MANY topics, including BENTE's (and other RCSD unions') response to the RCSD's questionable math regarding the budget deficit
► read moreSee below for results from the 9/22/2020 election for the office of BENTE President.
► read moreSee below for messages from President Dan DiClemente regarding projected lay-offs for BENTE members and this week's election for the office of BENTE president.
► read moreSee below for a news story on Superintendent Myers-Small's decision to go to remote learning only and its affects on BENTE.
► read moreSee below for an update from President DiClemente regarding potential job cuts and lobbying efforts.
► read morePlease see below for a message from President Daniel DiClemente and his letter to Superintendent Myers-Small and the RCSD Board of Education.
► read moreSee below for an update from President Daniel DiClemente regarding RCSD's recent announcement about fully remote learning and its effect on BENTE members.
► read moreSee below for a communication from President Dan DiClemente regarding Gov. Cuomo's announcement about reopening schools this fall.
► read morePresident Daniel DiClemente and several BENTE members were guests on "Connections with Evan Dawson," a local radio program on WXXI. Dan and our others members talked about how reopening schools during the COVID-19 pandemic affects us as support staff. Listen to the August 6, 2020, episode.
► read moreSee below for an email from President Daniel DiClemente regarding the RCSD plan to reopen schools this fall in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
► read moreSee attached for the letter President Daniel DiClemente sent on behalf of BENTE members to Superintendent Myers-Small and the BOE.
► read morePresident Dan DiClemente provides information regarding school reopenings and how COVID-19 will affect how BENTE members perform our duties. See below for details.
► read moreSee below for President Daniel DiClemente's updates on displacements, grievances, and other topics.
► read moreSee below for communication from President Daniel DiClemente regarding elections, displacements, and other updates.
► read moreSee below for a message from Aneli Rivera-Nothnagle, Director, Employee Benefits, regarding a new support group set up by RCSD.
► read morePlease see below for a message from President Daniel DiClemente.
► read moreSee the article from the Rochester City Newspaper on the new superintendent of the RCSD.
► read moreSee the article from the Democrat and Chronicle regarding a new superintendent for the Rochester City School District.
► read morePlease see below for a message from President Daniel DiClemente.
► read moreSee below for an article from Spectrum news regarding Superintendent Dade and the upcoming budget decisions.
► read moreSee below for a link to an article from WROC 8 reporting that Terry Dade has accepted a superintendent job elsewhere in NYS.
► read moreSee below for an article from WXXI regarding Superintendent Dade's future with the Rochester City School District.
► read morePlease see below for a communication from President Daniel DiClemente.
► read morePlease click below for information regarding FREE 30-minute wellness classes for RCSD employees. Topics include: yoga, barre, toning, and core.
► read morePlease see below for additional communication from President Daniel DiClemente.
► read morePlease see the following updates from President Daniel DiClemente.
► read moreSee below for the 2020-2020-2021 school calendar.
► read morePlease see below for Superintendent Dade's response to President DiClemente's letter regarding the COVID-19 emergency.
► read moreSee below for a letter from our President Daniel DiClemente re: COVID-19 and our members
► read moreSee below for an update from President Daniel DiClemente regarding BENTE's communication with RCSD regarding the coronavirus/COVID-19 emergency and its impact on BENTE members, time entering, etc.
► read moreMeetings canceled because of the COVID-19 emergency.
► read morePlease see below for a very important communication from President Daniel DiClemente regarding reporting requirements for BENTE members during the coronavirus/COVID-19 RCSD emergency school closure.
► read moreClick below for WXXI piece on on RCSD response to the novel coronavirus.
► read morePlease click below to see a communication from AFSCME President Lee Saunders regarding the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
► read moreReminder! This meeting is coming up this next week: flier from the Benefits Department regarding an upcoming retirement meeting, scheduled for February.
► read moreSee below for a 13WHAM story on potential closure of Schools No. 44 and 57, with a plan to turn them into pre-kindergarten buildings.
► read moreOpening January 16, 2020, and continuing through early April, see the flier for details about this art exhibit!
► read moreClick below for information about RCSD's new Chief Financial Officer. He will begin in January 2020.
► read moreSee this Democrat and Chronicle article for more discussion of the current budget problems in RCSD.
► read moreDemocrat and Chronicle article discusses data that shows that students who leave charter school and suburban schools and enter the RCSD are more likely to be homeless or be students with disabilities.
► read moreClick the link below to listen to WXXI's radio program "Connections" and its discussion regarding the RCSD.
► read moreThe district's Chief Financial Officer Everton Sewell resigned Tuesday as RCSD works to resolve its latest budgetary problems.
► read moreAccording to City Newspaper and Eamonn Scanlon, education analyst at The Children's Agenda, "the district's spending paid for things it had to provide, but it didn't budget enough for them."
► read moreFormer superintendent Barbara Deane-Williams intended to push district finances to breaking point and force the state to increase funding as the crisis developed in plain sight over two budget seasons.
► read moreSee the attached flier for information regarding a retirement seminar September 18. Call the union office if you are planning to attend!
► read moreThe D&C is sympathetic to state takeover and labels union contracts a “large obstacle to success.”
► read moreSee the article in CITY News about Terry Dad.
► read moreClick to read President Dan DiClemente's end-of-school-year communication:
► read moreThe weather isn't the best, but the picnic is ON!!!!!
► read moreThe Rochester School Board announced on Tuesday that Terry Dade, currently an assistant superintendent for the Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia, will be the next city school district superintendent.
► read moreClick the link below for an article about the 4 finalists for the RCSD Superintendent position. There will be public forums with the candidates on May 4 and 5.
► read moreDid you know that as a BENTE member you also can get discounted movie tickets, car rentals, and other benefits? Click on the link below for more information, and register using AFSCME in the dropdown. Our local is 2419.
► read moreCity Newspaper reports on a community forum that was held on March 30, 2019.
► read moreSee the announcement for details on how to register for tele-medicine and enter for a chance to win a gift card.
► read moreClick here for a Fabulous February Contest question!
► read moreClick the link to read a statement from Bill Slocum, President of AFSCME Local 1635.
► read moreClick here for a Fabulous February Contest question!
► read moreEvery week in January, random schools were selected in order to honor the custodial night staff. This year’s winners were at #28, #33, #3, and #57 Schools. Stay tuned for Website Wednesdays in February, where a question will be posted on the BENTE website from a story during the week. The first person to call the BENTE office with the answer will be awarded a $25 gift card.
► read moreDespite a multi-million-dollar, decades-long war waged by special interests on public sector workers’ right to join together for a better life, official statistics show 2018 public sector unions like BENTE are holding strong! See the article for more information.
► read moreIn February, the Benefits Department will be hosting a meeting to educate employees about the retirement process. See the flier for more information.
► read moreThe recurring question during the RCSD forum: what is the state Education Department going to do once the school board and district fail?
► read moreSee this document regarding deducting union dues from state income taxes.
► read moreThe board elected Van White as president for the fifth consecutive year, and Cynthia Elliott was elected vice president, a position she also held in 2017. In both cases, the four senior members voted for White and Elliott, two of the newest members voted against them, and the third new member abstained.
► read moreWhite reelected school board president amid serious tensions
► read moreThe meeting will be from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 10, at Wilson Foundation Academy, 200 Genesee Street.
► read moreClick link for more information.
► read moreThe last winners in our holiday giveaway event!
► read moreState Education Commissioner's Response to Distinguished Educator Report
► read moreCity Discussion Forum and Challenges to parent engagement
► read moreCongratulations to the winners on our sixth Turkey Tuesday!
► read moreDaniel Lowengard, the interim superintendent who led city schools following the departure of former superintendent Bolgen Vargas, is returning to the district for a second time as interim.
► read moreRochester Mayor Lovely Warren is planning a series of meetings seeking the public's opinion about the Rochester school district.
► read moreCongratulations to the winners on our fifth Turkey Tuesday!
► read moreSee the City Newspaper article for information about the RCSD search for a new superintendent.
► read moreSee this article for an analysis of Jaime Aquino's assessment of the Rochester school district.
► read moreCongratulations to the winners on our fourth Turkey Tuesday!
► read moreCongratulations to the winners on our third Turkey Tuesday!
► read moreCongratulations to the winners on our second Turkey Tuesday!
► read moreSee the link for details on health care plans and rates.
► read moreCongratulations to the winners on our first Turkey Tuesday!
► read moreBENTE members have a chance to win a free turkey during the month of November! Click for details!
► read moreThe BENTE CURE Holiday Party will be held Tuesday, December 11, 2018. Please see the flier for more information about how you can be a part of this special event!
► read moreSee the September (English) and October (Spanish) NexGen EAP newsletters to help establish and continue well-being and healthy habits.
► read moreBarbara Deane-Williams announces her retirement. See Democrat and Chronicle article for details.
► read moreDJ Ron Johnson will headline the bash this year! If you haven't reserved your ticket, the deadline is fast approaching! Call or stop by the office to purchase your ticket by Monday October 22nd. $10 deposit for members (will be returned to you at the door), $25.00 for guest.
► read moreJoin the AFSCME campaign on October 13th for a Union Day of action.
► read morePlease see the attached flyer regarding details for this upcoming fundraiser on September 15th.
► read morePlease join us by marching in the Labor Day Parade this Monday September 3rd! Sea Breeze tickets will be available for marchers at half price! (6 max)
► read moreGovernor Cuomo signed an executive order that will preserve the safety and privacy of public employees by ensuring the protection of their personal information.
► read moreUnions remain strong despite US Supreme Court siding with corporations over working people. President Dan DiClemente emphasizes the need for strong unions now more than ever in his attached statement.
► read moreIt is with great sadness that we announce that Weezy Landry's mother has passed away. Please think of her and her family during this difficult time.
► read moreThe RCSD will be holding an Employee Wellness Night at the Seneca Park Zoo on Sunday June 10th from 5:30 - 8:30. Email Benefits with the subject line "zoo" to reserve up to 5 tickets for your family!
► read moreBetty Franklin, a FSH at #3 school, celebrated her 90th birthday last week!
► read moreEffective March 18th a change to Civil Service regulation pertaining to paid time off for cancer screenings.
► read moreJoin other RCSD employees and their families for skate night at Horizon Fun FX on March 4th from 5-7pm. Space is Limited so reserve your tickets now!
► read moreThinking about Retiring? The Benefits Department will be hosting a retirement meeting on 2/15 at Wilson Foundation.
► read moreThe City observed a nationwide moment of silence on Thursday February 1st to honor Echol Cole and Robert Walker, two sanitation workers from Memphis TN, who were tragically killed by the compactor of their garbage truck. Their deaths led to a strike that brought Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to Tennessee to support the cause.
► read moreThe new contract books have been printed and labeled. They are being delivered to schools on a daily basis. Look for yours soon.
► read moreOn Wednesday night, families from the Childhood Cancer Association gathered at School of the Arts for a fun filled evening, which was sponsored by BENTE and Council 66.
► read moreYou can now follow BENTE news updates on our Facebook Page: BENTE Local 2419
► read morePlease be sure you get out and vote today. Be sure to vote NO to a Constitutional Convention!!
► read moreOn November 5th at 11:00 AM, President DiClemente will be at the Pittsford Barnes and Noble reading Commissioner Van White's Children's book HEROES.
► read moreThe new contract states that any employee who was a 10 month employee and has moved to a 12 month employee will be granted vacation time based on the start date of their 10 month appointment. this should be added to your vacation time within the next two weeks. If you do not receive your correct time after two weeks, please contact President DiClemente directly at:
Dan@bentelocal2419.org or 458-8670.
Get your BENTE Bash tickets before October 18th to receive a discounted price! Don't miss out on this fun filled night of food, drinks, dancing, and raffle prizes!
► read moreThe Labor Day Parade is Monday September 4th. For those who are interested in marching, BENTE will be lining up on North Union Street between (East Ave and Charlotte St.). You can also park at the Service Center (835 Hudson Avenue) and take the bus.
► read moreFoodLink and the Rochester City School District are taking the summer meals program on the road in hopes to fill the gap in between where the children could access meals. Check the local listing for times and locations.
► read moreThere will be a blood Drive for the American Red Cross held at CO on July 26th
► read moreBENTE member Jamal Abdullahi's two daughters have graduated at the top of the class at Wilson Magnet High School, where he is the Assistant Custodian.
► read moreThe Contract was voted on and passed 268 - 3
► read moreBENTE has some great events planned that you wont want to miss!
► read moreOur Contract has been settled and we have reached a tentative agreement. The members of BENTE/AFSCME Local 2419 will now need to ratify it.
► read moreCouncil 66 union affiliates, including BENTE local 2419, hosted a Mayoral Candidates Forum at East High School on Thursday evening.
► read moreThe retirement meeting being held on June 1st has a new location. It will be held at Wilson HS.
► read moreAlthough President DiClemente has been appointed as President of AFSCME Council 66, he will continue to serve as President of BENTE local 2419.
► read moreAll Union Officers up for election ran unopposed at last nights General Membership Meeting.
► read moreWe are excited to announce a new AFSCME benefit available to you and your family: a free associate degree from Eastern Gateway Community College.
► read moreBenefits will be holding a retirement meeting on June 1st from 3:30-6 pm at Central Office.
► read moreBENTE will award two $500 scholarships to two Rochester City School students in an effort to help them purchase books for college.
► read moreJoin CURE for their 5K run and walk on Saturday April 29th. 8:30am at the Lower Seneca Park.
► read moreSave for retirement by participating in a 403(b) retirement plan.
► read moreThe District will be holding a Data, Dialog, and Donuts event this Saturday April 1st at Central Office from 10:00am-12 noon. The event provides an initial opportunity for District staff to share the progress of the District’s Comprehensive Improvement Plan goals that guide our work across the district.
► read moreDo you have a prom or bridesmaid dress hanging in a closet at home that will never be worn again? With prom season upon us, the staff at School of the Arts is looking for donated dresses, shoes, evening purses or jewelry for our less fortunate seniors.
► read morePresident DiClemente will meet with the Superintendent this afternoon regarding the budget, and negotiations continue in early April.
► read moreBENTE members are mourning the loss of Bill Griffo, Copy Finisher at the RCSD’s Print Shop, who died of a sudden heart attack on Tuesday morning . Bill started with the RCSD on October 20, 1986.
► read moreThe 4th negotiations meeting between BENTE and the RCSD will be held today.
► read moreMarch 15th membership meeting has been canceled
► read moreChip Partner, the Director of Communications, will be leaving the district this month
► read moreExcellus has rolled out a new Healthy Rewards plan, and have provided tutorials to get you started.
► read morePresident Dan DiClemente and Vice President Larry Profetta met with the District last week to set the ground rules for upcoming contract negotiations. The first full team session will take place on Wednesday, January 25th at the BENTE Union Office at noon.
Beginning January 1, 2017, our dental insurance has switched from HEG to Excellus.
► read moreThe RCSD will be switching to Excellus for dental insurance beginning January 1, 2017
► read moreThe CURE foundation names BENTE during their #thankfulthursday for their part in planning the annual CURE party.
► read morePayroll has important deadline reminders for the end of the year regarding time entry cut off and out of cycle checks.
► read moreDonations for Cure Party Due December 2nd
► read morePresident DiClemente sent an email this morning with important updates regarding holiday pay, the upcoming membership meeting, negotiations, and the annual CURE party.
► read moreEnter for your chance to win!
► read more23 Rochester City School District Schools will be polling sites for the upcoming election. Some parents have voiced concerns, due to the contentious nature of the election.
RCSD will provide grants for employees to use towards a down payment and/or closing costs for the purchase of a home.
► read moreCURE Party will be held December 14th
► read moreTickers $10 per member and $25 per couple if you purchase by Friday October 14th.
► read moreThe State Education Department has deemed Lower and Upper East, Monroe, and School #9 improving schools.
► read moreMonday October 3rd was the first stop on the Too Cool for School Tour
► read moreEnter for your chance to win!
► read moreVivian Lombardo, former BENTE member and website coordinator, passed away on September 11, 2016. Attached is a letter that BENTE president Dan DiClemente wrote after her passing.
► read moreDid you know you have the opportunity to save for retirement by participating in the RCSD 403(b) retirement plan?
REGULAR OFFICE HOURS OF 8:00 A.M.TO 4:00 P.M. WILL RESUME ON TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2016.
► read more"The tough message is really a message of giving information to family and parents and helping support them to support their children," says Deane-Williams. "That is done through outreach."
► read moreIt was supposed to be immune to politics — precisely so it wouldn’t risk getting bogged down with disagreements and delays.
► read moreSuperintendent Barbara Deane-Williams is making the rounds, learning from administrators and students about what's working – and what isn’t.
► read moreTaps or faucets that are deemed unsafe will be taken offline or replaced. Drinking water was distributed to a number of buildings that were hosting summer school.
► read moreThe State Education Department must approve the partnership application and authorize the grant, but White says that he is confident that the agreement will receive approval.
► read moreThe Rochester City school board unanimously appointed former Greece superintendent Barbara Deane-Williams as the next superintendent of schools on Monday, making her the first permanent female leader in the district's history.
"My observation is that she's been straight-forward, open-minded and collaborative, and that's what I hope she brings here,"... "I think this probably bodes well for Rochester."
PLEASE MAKE NOTE OF OUR SUMMER BUSINESS HOURS:
EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2016, THE BENTE OFFICE WILL BE OPEN FROM 7:30 A.M. until 3:30 P.M.
EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2016, THE BENTE OFFICE WILL BEGIN OBSERVING SUMMER HOURS. THE BENTE OFFICE WILL BE OPEN FROM 7:30 A.M. UNTIL 3:30 P.M. THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER MONTHS.
THE BENTE OFFICE WILL RESUME NORMAL BUSINESS HOURS OF 8:00 A.M. UNTIL 4:00 P.M. ON SEPTEMBER 5, 2016.
The board had expected to be finished with its search by now, ...
► read moreMore to the point, Morelle said, the issue at hand was the second phase of work. He said the bill would not cost taxpayers any additional money and in fact would save money. With a larger pool of aid available, schools could be fully renovated in one fell swoop.
► read moreCouncil also votes on the budget for the Rochester City School District , and that budget was approved 8 to 1, with Councilwoman Carolee Conklin the only 'no' vote on the school budget.
► read moreIt was developed by a task force on school climate that included district staff, students and community members.
► read moreThis important debate continues.. "attracting strong supporters and vocal critics."
► read more"It whittled down the pool of applicants last week. Interviews start today."
► read more"...the district explained.."
► read more"....it's a basic necessity for students."
► read moreFeasibility study indicates interest and community discussion continues....
► read moreAttention Parents: Check out offerings and deadlines for RCSD Summer Programs for your child.
► read moreApplication must be handed in to the BENTE office by Friday, April 29, 2016.
► read moreSubmitted applications must be received by the BENTE office no later than April 29, 2016.
► read moreTo get information and participate in this worthy annual fundraising event for local families coping with childhood cancer, please go to our Services Section, and click on the CURE link under Special Events.
► read more"I already know we're going to get beat up pretty bad by the community,......... we don't seem to be performing like we should."
Mark your calendars for the 2nd public hearing on the proposed 2016-17 RCSD budget
*** April 14, 2016 6:30 p.m. Conference Room 3A-3B***
Use the survey to be heard on such an important decision!
► read more"The district could not say Monday how much it anticipates that benefit will cost in 2016-17 or beyond."
► read moreAttention Parents: A chance to use your voice!
► read moreThe search is on...
► read moreMore on the subject..
Tim Louis Macaluso, Rochester City Newspaper, shares views on how students could benefit from this alternative and what it could mean to the RCSD.
Applications for Custodial, Food Service, Maintenance Mechanic and School Sentry positions can now be printed from our website. Please access these applications under Forms in the Information Section.
► read moreA recent report by the National Education Policy Center on the business model behind charter schools found that “a substantial share of public expenditure intended for the delivery of direct educational services to children is being extracted inadvertently or intentionally for personal or business financial gain.”
► read more"As much as Dan wants to return as our Interim Superintendent, he is resigning from that role to focus on family and the job of getting better."
Read more of the City Newspaper article along with Van White's letter to RCSD staff in its entirety.
We wish Dan Lowengard continued success with his positive prognosis and BENTE welcomes Linda Cimusz, who will now be serving as our Interim Superintendent.
"Approximately 380 support staff, including custodial and food service workers, are paid less than $15 an hour in the Rochester City School District, says Dan DiClemente, president of BENTE AFSCME Local 2419."
► read moreBoard president Van White not only opposes closing more city schools, he’s advocating opening new ones.
► read moreInterim Superintendent Lowengard is in our thoughts.
► read more"The biggest priority is in the classroom,.."
► read moreThank you to all that helped make these children smile and enjoy this festive event.
► read more"In their leaving, my sincerest hope is those of us who remain will see that change happen, and I believe it will."
► read moreMember discount tickets and fun photos!
► read more"Meanwhile, educators want more action and less talk."
► read moreAll four unions are fighting Chief Financial Officer Bill Ansbrow's....
► read morePlease be on the look-out for ..
► read moreRCSD knows his capabilities of helping our children.
► read more"now is the right time to step aside because the district needs stability."
► read moreAn opportunity for parents to use their voice!
► read more"-the next generation of community school,"
► read moreWill this solve the problem?
► read moreWorking to improve student needs
► read moreGood news for our community.
► read moreCandidates for School Board Mary Adams, Malik Evans, Liz Hallmark, and Willa Powell all won last night in the Democratic primary. BENTE endorsed all four candidates.
► read moreSchool Board Vice President Cynthia Elliot has been accused of verbally abusing teachers with expletives.
► read moreThe first edition of the fourteenth season of the BENTE Informer has been released and is currently in the process of being delivered to work locations throughout the District.
► read moreExcellus Blue Cross Blue Shield hacked. More than 10 million affected.
► read moreWill the UR succeed? Does it have a winning formula to turn around failing urban schools around?
What is Buffalo thinking? "the RTA voted no confidence in him and the Chicago Teachers went on strike for the first time in 25 years..."
Read more in the D & C article by clicking link below:
"Every student will be part of a small families group made up of about 10 kids, .. "
Click link below to City Newspaper article and read more of how the Superintendent of East, Steve Uebbing, hopes to turn around and reinvent East High:
"One of the freedoms of folks here in the United States, is that if they choose to join a union, they should be able to do so."
Click on link below to the Afscme.org article and read more of what President Obama had to say about these federal rules along with his praise for unions in our country.
GO GOLD FOR KAILEE.
Click link below to see flyer and read more about this important event. Learn how you can join our brother Bob Kwiecien in helping children and families in our community fight this horrible disease:
We're not going to stand by and let Scott Walker..
Read more of what President Saunders had to say in the afscme.org article by clicking on link below:
Cuomo's ideas are "an all-out assault on public education, teachers, children,..."
Read more on what this renowned educator had to say in the D & C article by clicking link below:
So many benefits of membership.....
Read more at AFSCME.org by clicking link below:
A lapse in attention during the 2014-15 budget season...
Learn more about the District's fiscal fumble by clicking link below to D & C article:
The Rochester School District is in line to receive....
Click on link below to read more in the D & C article on recent plans to improve student performance.
School Selection process now open for the 2015-16 school year.
Read more in the D & C article, along with access to district's website, by clicking on link below.
See the article from News 8. BENTE and other RCSD unions challenge the Superintendent Myers-Small and Acting CFO Pierce on the projected deficit for this school year.
► read moreSee below for an article from the Democrat and Chronicle. Reporter Justin Murphy discusses the different ways the district labels it debts and the timelines by which they need to be addressed, as well as the choices the district faces, and how those choices may impact students and staff.
► read moreSee below for coverage from various news outlets about recent job cuts and how BENTE continues to advocate for it members.
► read moreSee below for a communication from President Dan DiClemente regarding the recent lay-offs of members and communication from the RCSD.
► read moreSee below for a news piece from Spectrum News regarding 200+ BENTE members losing their jobs this week. Don't forget the rally Thursday, October 15!
► read moreSee below for news coverage of the recent lay-off of BENTE members.
► read moreSee below for an update from President Dan DiClemente regarding the upcoming lay-offs and the work our union continues to do to fight for our jobs.
► read moreSee below for the press release from BENTE regarding the recent job cuts of some of our members.
► read moreSee below for an article from Spectrum News in which RTA President Adam Urbanski urges the RCSD Board of Education to reject the cuts to BENTE workers proposed by Superintendent Leslie Myers-Small.
► read moreWe all stand in solidarity with our members who received lay-off notices this week. BENTE will continue to fight for all our jobs and fair treatment and respect for our workers!
► read moreSee below for news stories regarding members facing lay-offs.
► read moreSee below for an article from WXXI news regarding BENTE's proposal to the RCSD to best utilize union members during the COIVD-19 pandemic and help save member jobs.
► read moreSee below for a link to listen to President DiClemente advocate for BENTE members and the importance of our role in the RCSD.
► read morePlease see below for a proposal that was recently submitted to the RCSD Superintendent and BOE re: BENTE's work roles during the COVID-19 pandemic.
► read moreSee the attached letter to the RCSD Superintendent and Board of Education from the Presidents of BENTE, RAP, RTA, and ASAR, advocating for prudence and caution in staffing decisions, rather than hastily making job cuts.
► read moreSee below for a news report from Spectrum News, where President Daniel DiClemente makes the argument that the RCSD should not rush to make job cuts.
► read moreSee below for a news story on potential 20% cuts across the board at RCSD as a result of funding crises during the COVID-19 pandemic.
► read moreSee below for an article from the Democrat and Article regarding recent communication from the RCSD Superintendent regarding job cuts.
► read moreSee below for a news report from Channel 8, RochesterFirst, regarding a plan to cut 20% of the RCSD budget.
► read moreSee below for information regarding the amended proposed budget for 2020-2021 and other information.
► read morePlease see below for the latest communication from President Daniel DiClemente regarding the 2020-2021 RCSD budget and information regarding the effect of COVID-19 on BENTE and labor events.
► read morePlease see below for an update from President Daniel DiClemente regarding Superintendent Dade's proposed budget for the 2020-2021 school year.
► read moreSee below for information from President Daniel DiClemente regarding the latest on the 2020-2021 RCSD budget.
► read moreSee below for a Democrat and Chronicle article on the coronavirus effects on the RCSD budget.
► read moreSee the 13WHAM news story on potential reductions in staff based upon the current budget crisis.
► read moreClick the link below to read a Democrat and Chronicle article about possible state aid to help with the current RCSD budget crisis.
► read moreSee below for a piece from City Newspaper: NYS Comptroller’s Office warned Thursday that the district is on track to finish the academic year with a $40.5 million deficit.
► read moreSee below the Democrat and Chronicle article that discusses Gov. Cuomo's proposal for a state monitor for the RCSD.
► read moreSee the City Newspaper article below for information regarding monies owed to the RCSD from NYS
► read moreSee below for a news piece from WHAM13 regarding comments from Superintendent Dade after his recent trip to Albany.
► read moreClick the link below to read the RochesterFirst news article about the RCSD budget vote on 12/19 and the subsequent job cuts.
► read moreSee the article below for Sanders' tweet and reactions to it.
► read moreDec 9, 2019, article with the latest information regarding RCSD mid-year staffing cuts.
► read moreBelow is a News 8 staff story on the recent numbers regarding mid-year lay-offs in the RCSD.
► read moreFive percent of teachers and staff at the Rochester City School District will be laid off in the coming weeks.
► read moreThe XXI radio program, Connections, hosts several members of the school board in a discussion of the financial state of the RCSD.
► read moreSee below for comments from Mayor Warren and NYS legislators regarding Superintendent Dade's recent presentation.
► read moreWHEC News 10 Report on November 12, 2019 meeting where plans to reduce budget deficit were discussed.
► read moreClick below to read BENTE President Dan DiClemente's communication regarding proposed solutions to address the current budget crisis and their affect on BENTE members.
► read morePlease click the link for a story from 10WHEC about the budget deficit and Superintendent Dade's response. An email address has been created so the community can provide input.
► read moreThe Democrat and Chronicle article details the questionable RCSD decisions in ignoring its own analysts and under-budgeting for the health and dental insurance fund.
► read moreMembers of the RCSD community, including BENTE members, had an opportunity to talk about what the budget cuts mean for their positions. Home school assistants in particular shared the many ways they impact the lives of students every day.
► read morePlease click to see the new coverage as BENTE members and others shared what the RCSD 2019-2020 proposed budget could mean for our children and the support we provide to them.
► read moreBENTE members attended the April 11, 2019, to support Home School Assistants. Home School Assistants play an IMPORTANT and VALUABLE role helping our students succeed!
► read moreHome School Assistants, BENTE members, were one of the important voices heard at the April 11, 2019, Board of Education meeting, where RCSD constituents talked about the negative impact the proposed budget will have on our students.
► read morePlease see for information regarding BENTE's response to the budget proposal and the change of date and location for our membership meeting.
► read moreThis link contains information from the Rochester City School District regarding budget presentations and a draft budget for the 2019-2020 school year.
► read moreThis article from Rochester City Newspaper discusses the challenges of budgeting and the differences from one year to the next.
► read moreWATCHDOG EXCLUSIVE: Big project, big money, big problems
► read moreBENTE members will look to bring their concerns to the Board of Education at the second and last Public Hearing on the Budget Tuesday evening at the District's Central Office.
The meeting will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m. and members are encouraged to arrive no later than 5:30 p.m. Those who attend will receive a BENTE tee shirt and a sign to hold up in the meeting room.
The meeting will not last more than an hour, as a half dozen speakers, including BENTE President Dan DiClemente, are scheduled to speak on behalf of the workers facing layoffs.
All members are encouraged to attend in a show of solidarity.
For more, please click on the story, which aired on channel 8:
"I have looked through the budget and have no doubt that the majority of the cuts to support staff will be layoffs..."
► read moreSee below for information regarding the RCSD Wellness Virtual Fair
► read moreThis is a benefit feature added to your Excellus BCBS medical plan. It provides 24/7/365 on-demand access to U.S. board certified doctors and pediatricians—anytime, anywhere within the USA.
► read moreThe District sent out a reminder that open enrollment takes place throughout November. Also, details on dental insurance changes beginning January 1, 2017
► read moreThe RCSD will be switching to Excellus for Dental Insurance
► read moreThe union's goals and objectives with regard to the process...
► read moreThe four unions representing over 6,000 employees in the Rochester City School District...
► read moreThe Health Care Committee examined and compared each individual benefit...
► read moreThere were quite a few reasons that the Health Care Committee decided...
► read morePlease see below for information regarding our upcoming Aug. 20 ratification vote as well as marching in the Labor Day parade.
► read moreWe want to hear from you! Please see below for the member survey regarding upcoming contract negotiations.
► read moreMembers voted in favor of the contract on August 9, 2021, and the RCSD announced the agreement the next day.
► read moreSee below for a letter from President Daniel DiClemente.
► read morePlease see below for an update from Daniel DiClemente, BENTE President.
► read moreThe BENTE Membership ratified the contract yesterday...
► read moreMembers will be able to vote on the new Tentative Collective Bargaining Agreement...
► read moreSee below for more information about the RCSD going back again on its word to our members and the upcoming rally in support of our laid off food service workers and security staff. The RCSD is continuing its attacks on our members, and we will not stand by without a fight.
► read moreSee below for a communication from President Daniel DiClemente and a resolution from our union regarding the lay-offs of some of our members by Superintendent Leslie Myers-Small.
► read moreDue to severe weather, the rally is rescheduled to FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2020!
► read moreSee below for information regarding a rally to be held THIS THURSDAY, August 27, to show how important BENTE jobs are to RCSD and our community. Also included is start date information for 10-month employees by unit.
► read moreSee flier for information on a rally Saturday, July 6, 2020.
► read moreSee the attachment for information regarding a July 11, 2020, rally: Black Lives Matter in Labor!
► read morePlease see below for a message from President Daniel DiClemente regarding Workers' Memorial Day.
► read moreSee below for a rally Wednesday, October 2, at 6pm, at Driving Park and Mt. Read Blvd. We support our fellow union members in their fight for a fair contract. Together we stand!
► read moreAFSCME Council 66’s new “Get Out the Vote” ad for Rochester was just published. Video by Ryan Griffith, BENTE Member. Check it out!
► read moreEPI independent study confirms what we, at BENTE/AFSCME Local 2419, have always known! Living standards improve when working people stand together!
"The working conditions that we enjoy today didn’t simply materialize out of thin air."
► read moreBy working together throughout the country, members have accomplished so much.
► read moreThe message is loud and clear!
Read more on the AFSCME 2014 Convention by clicking on the afscme.org article below:
BENTE President Dan DiClemente and seven union officers...
► read morePennsylvania Workers Stand Together to Protect Right to Unionize. To read more from AFSCME.org article click on link below:
► read more
BENTE Local 2419