IMPORTANT BTU INTERNAL ELECTION 2012 BIOGRAPHIES ...

IMPORTANT BTU INTERNAL ELECTION 2012 BIOGRAPHIES ANNOUNCEMENT
Internal Election mail in ballots will go into the U.S. Mail on Wednesday, May 2 as
scheduled and will begin arriving at members’ homes as early as Thursday, May 3.
The BTU Internal Election is being overseen by the American Arbitration Association
with funding by the American Federation of Teachers.
BELOW, members will find the biographies for all Internal Election Candidates.
The number of candidates in this year’s Internal Election is unprecedented. The
Candidates for Executive Board are highlighted in bold and green. Please read all of the
biographies very carefully before voting.
IF A MEMBER DOES NOT RECEIVE AN INTERNAL ELECTION MAIL IN BALLOT IN
THE U.S. MAIL AT THEIR HOME MAILING ADDRESS BY MAY 7, 2012, THEY
SHOULD CALL THE BTU AAA INTERNAL ELECTION HELP DESK NUMBER AT
1-800-273-0726.
PLEASE give ballots ample time to arrive in the U.S. Mail and do NOT call the BTU
AAA Internal Election Help Desk Number prior to May 7.
PLEASE do NOT call the BTU Office concerning the Internal Election as the American
Arbitration Association as a completely independent, experienced, gold-standard,
organization is directly overseeing the election and has possession of all ballots. The
BTU does not have possession of any ballots or election materials.
All BTU members are urged to participate in the BTU Internal Election by carefully
reviewing the candidate biographies below, voting by using the mail in ballot, secret
ballot envelope and postage paid return envelope received at member home mailing
addresses and placing the mail in ballots in the U.S. Mail no later than May 23.
Ballots must arrive using the provided addressed, postage paid envelope at the AAA
office in Miami no later than May 30. All ballots will be counted on May 30 at the BTU
Office in Tamarac.
ALL CANDIDATES AND MEMBERS are welcome to attend the tabulation, which will
be conducted by the AAA and the BTU Internal Election Committee, at 5 p.m. on May
30 at the BTU Office in Tamarac.
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BTU INTERNAL ELECTION 2012
CANDIDATE BIOGRAPHIES
(Listed in Alphabetical Order)
*Executive Board Candidates denoted in bold and green.
Name: Camille Adderley
Candidate Positions: AFT Delegate
School/Work Location: KCW
Subject: Pre-K 2 / Head Start
Number of Years in the BTU: 3 years
Professional Organizations: FEA, COPE, AFT, AFL/CIO, NEA
Union Experience: Union Member, Attended rallies
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I have been a union member for 18 years I
have always wanted to experience meeting and being a part of a delegate conference. I
will be a responsible and able candidate if chosen to represent the union. Thank you
and good luck to all.
---
Candidate Name: Robin Adler
Candidate Positions: AFT Delegate; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: A.C. Perry Elementary
Subject: Kindergarten
Number of Years in the BTU: 8
Professional Organizations: BTU; FEA; AFT; NEA
Union Experience: I have been an active Union Member for 8 years and in a leadership
position as a Union Steward for 2 years.
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): Having been a Union Steward for two years, I
realize the importance of being not only a Union member, but an active member. As a
steward, I've also assisted in organizing members at my school. As a member of the
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delegation, I will do my best to represent my Union.
---
Name:
Suzanne Atkin
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Members; AFT Delegate; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: AC Perry Elementary School
Subject: Gifted
Number of Years in the BTU: 7
Professional Organizations: BTU; FEA; AFT; NEA; BTU/Cope-Tiger; and the
Democratic Party
Union Experience: BTU Executive Board, Master Designated Steward; SAC
Committee; Faculty Council President; Marzano Design Team; ER&D Grant
Writer; ER&D Teacher & Trainer; Charter School Activist; protest rallies; elections
field work; palm card distribution; phone banking; as well as past delegate for the
AFT, FEA, and NEA Conventions
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): "Experience is the best Teacher," and
so true for my experience with the Executive Board. I have worked with integrity
to move forward and wish to be re-elected. I believe I can make a difference for
the members I represent being sure that their challenges and concerns are heard.
---
Name:
Larry Bailey
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Lauderhill Middle School
Subject: Business
Number of Years in the BTU: 28
Professional Organizations: National Business Education Association;
Association for Career and Technical Education; American Federation of
Teachers; National Education Association; Broward Teachers Union
Union Experience: Designated Steward 25 plus years; Member of the Technical
Advisory Committee (TAC)
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Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I will facilitate finding solutions to
repair the image of the Broward Teachers Union; help to re-establish OUR Union
to a strong viable education leader; listen to both sides of the argument to form
sound decisions.
---
Name: Steven P. Beauchamp
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; AFT Delegate
School/Work Location: Coral Glades High School / 3861
Subject: American Government & Economics
Number of Years in the BTU: 8
Professional Organizations: National Committee of Social Studies (NCSS)
Union Experience: Budget Committee Member; Designated Site Steward; Master
Steward
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I come to the field of education from a
corporate background. I have been active with the union since first becoming a
teacher 8 years ago. I am looking to serve on the Executive Board and represent
the teachers and staff. I also believe that the union needs active members.
---
Name: Barbara Bell
Candidate Positions: NEA Delegate; AFT Delegate
School/Work Location: Fort Lauderdale High School
Subject: US History
Number of Years in the BTU: 6
Professional Organizations: Broward Teachers Union; Teaching American History Grant
Union Experience: N/A
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): Representing our Union at the national level
would be an honor. As a teacher at the bottom end of the teaching spectrum, I have a
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fire in my belly that would be mutually beneficial to both our Union as well as our
national affiliates.
---
Name: Martha Bengoa
Candidate Positions: NEA Delegate; AFT Delegate; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Westglades Middle
Subject: Biography
Number of Years in the BTU: 6 yrs.
Professional Organizations:
Union Experience: Member and steward for the Union
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I believe in working hard to keep all union
members informed with the latest up-to date current events. If chosen to represent the
BTU, I will make sure all members are kept knowledgeable and work hard to be the
voice of my co-workers.
---
Name: Wade Brosz
Candidate Positions: NEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Indian Ridge Middle
Subject: American History & World Geography
Number of Years in the BTU: 11
Professional Organizations: BTU; NEA; FEA; AFT; Broward County Council for the
Social Studies (BCCSS); National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS)
Union Experience: Executive Board Futures Committee; Negotiations Committee;
Compensation Committee; Designated Steward; Code of Conduct Committee; New
Educator Committee; COPE-TIGER Committee
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): Since my teaching career began in 2001, I
have given much time and energy to help BTU and the teachers of Broward County. I
would feel honored to be chosen to represent the BTU at the NEA National Convention
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and will take my responsibilities and duties seriously.
---
Name: Bryan Caletka
Candidate Positions: NEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Western High School
Subject: Science
Number of Years in the BTU: 6
Professional Organizations: Davie Town Council; National Education Association;
Broward MPO League of Cities
Union Experience: Union Steward for six years; Designated Steward for the last two
years
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I hope to make this my third year in a row to
attend the NEA conference. I give up a significant celebration for the Town of Davie in
order to attend this event. I learn more from this event than anything else through the
year.
---
Name: Stephanie Catsicas
Candidate Positions: Executive Board
School/Work Location: Pompano Beach Middle School
Subject: History
Number of Years in the BTU:
Professional Organizations: Member of the Parent Teacher Association
Union Experience: N/A
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I want to make a change for the better
in the county. Helping to support the teachers and work to bridge the gap
between the union and the district to continue to make Broward County the best.
---
Page 6 of 32

Name:
Khea Davis
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member
School/Work Location: Pembroke Pines Charter High School
Subject: English
Number of Years in the BTU: 6
Professional Organizations:
Union Experience: Executive board member; Lead Steward; ER&D Professional
Development Trainer; Charter School Negotiations Team
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I believe in hard work, dedication, and
holding all stakeholders accountable. I have spoken out, even against the
masses, in my years on the executive board and as a Steward and will continue to
do the same if re-elected.
---
Name: Patty DeBiase
Candidate Positions: Executive Board; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Indian Trace Elementary
Subject:
Number of Years in the BTU: 5 or more
Professional Organizations: AYSO Executive Board; AFT; School PTA
Union Experience: Letter writing campaigns to Tallahassee; Forming groups and
attending all the rallies in the past 2 years; steward; 100% worksite membership
with all our BTU members joining COPE
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I have fought passionately to appeal all
bills hurting education and to save our specials. I would like to be more involved
in shared decision making. I am a leader with integrity and a drive for what is
right and fair. I'm not afraid to analyze, address and solve problems.
---
Page 7 of 32

Name: Annie Feldman
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: South Broward High
Subject: Exceptional Student Education - Learning Strategies
Number of Years in the BTU: 28+
Professional Organizations: International Reading Association; Council for
Exceptional Children; Executive Board Member - BTU 2008-Present
Union Experience: Constitution Committee Member; 2012 Contract Negotiation
Team Member; 1997- 2011 Executive Board Member; 2008-Present IPAS Team
Member; 2006-2010 Original High School Reform Committee Member
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I would like to continue the work of
making our organization a better and more transparent one that we can all be
proud of! It is a labor of love to pursue better working conditions, benefits, and
equity for all members!
---
Name:
Karen G. Fernander
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member
School/Work Location: Coconut Creek High School
Subject: Social Studies
Number of Years in the BTU: 29
Professional Organizations: Florida Education Association; American Federation
of Teachers; AFL-CIO; International Reading Association
Union Experience: Co-Chair of Union Scholarship Committee; Various Union Ad
Hoc Committees; Executive Board Member
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): Our union is meeting the challenges of
difficult times and circumstances. We need to continue this path of preparing for
the future. Your vote for me and the entire Integrity Slate means that you trust,
respect, and believe in experienced leadership. Thank you for your support.
---
Page 8 of 32

Name: Yadiris Ferreira
Candidate Positions: Executive Board; NEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Cypress Bay High School
Subject: Mathematics
Number of Years in the BTU: 10 years
Professional Organizations: BTU; FEA; AFT; BTU COPE-TIGER; AFT Area
Coordinator for BTU, SAC Co-Chair
Union Experience: Union Steward; Student Code of Conduct Committee; New
Educator Committee; BTU Budget Committee; AFT Common Core State Standard
Teacher Work Team
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): My goal is to promote a strong
presence and continue with the positive changes at the BTU. I understand the
challenges we have faced and continue to face in public education. I am willing to
continue to work towards building a strong union and protecting the rights of all
members.
---
Name: Marc B. Fetzer
Candidate Positions: Executive Board; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Boyd H. Anderson High School (1741)
Subject: English Teacher
Number of Years in the BTU: 12
Professional Organizations: Realtor Association of Greater Ft. Lauderdale, 1997-
present.
Union Experience: BTU Steward 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 at Boyd H. Anderson
High School
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): If elected as a BTU Executive Board
member, I will strive to bring positive change for the benefit of all our members
by promoting ethics, fairness, and integrity! As we proceed into a new chapter in
our profession, we will succeed together as a strong and effective union!
Page 9 of 32

---
Name: Maria Fialkov
Candidate Positions: Executive Board, NEA Delegate; AFT Delegate; FEA
Delegate
School/Work Location: Tropical Elementary
Number of Years in the BTU: 16
Professional Organizations: NBPTS; BCCTM
Union Experience: BTU Steward for 15 years;
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): Teaching is a wonderful profession
which has been denigrated. Much more responsibilities are being dumped on
teachers with much less support. Non-educators are making policy and
requirements for the teaching field. Where is the community uproar? The public
must be educated as to the REAL agenda of many politicians.
---
Name: Brenda J. Fischer
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; AFT Delegate
School/Work Location: Western High School
Subject: Art
Number of Years in the BTU: 19
Professional Organizations: BTU; National Art Educators Association
Union Experience: Steward; SIC/SAC; Faculty Council; Professional Development
Teams Trainer for ER&D; Area Representative for the Union; New Educators
Committee Delegate to national conventions
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): Experience at the elementary, middle,
high levels for teaching core and elective classes. As a steward had the courage
to stand up to principals for what is fair and just. Able to analyze, address and
solve problems at the school level. ER&D trainer for the last five years.
---
Page 10 of 32

Name: Carmel Marie Jean-Francois
Candidate Positions: NEA Delegate; AFT Delegate; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: KCW - Child Development/Prek-2 Department
Subject:
Number of Years in the BTU: Four Years
Professional Organizations: ESP; AFL/CIO; AFT - American Federation of Teacher;
NEA - National Education Association; FEA - Florida Education Association; PSRP -
Professional School Related Personnel
Union Experience: MSS - MEMBER SERVICE SPECIALIST; Master Steward; Budget
Committee; Area Coordinator
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I’ve been part of this organization since 2008.
After numerous conferences, training and volunteer hours away from my own family, I
have develop a passion for this family. Whatever our background or job function we can
empower ourselves to make a difference for our students and our members with
respect.
---
Name:
Anna Fusco
Positions: Executive Board
School/Work Location: Orange Brook Elem.
Subject: 5TH Grade
Number of Years in the BTU: 8
Professional Organizations: FEA; NEA; BTU; AFL-CIO; AFT; PTA
Union Experience: Faculty Council; SAC; Leadership Team; Rallies; Phone
Baking; Area Coordinator; BTU Steward
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): The Clean Slate Platform supports
pride and strength given back to teachers. I am ready to accept the responsibility
to bring back union members their rights and voice. I promise to be your
supporter. My mission is to insure all members are heard and supported by our e-
board.
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---
Name: Sharon Glickman, Esq.
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Westglades Middle School, Parkland
Subject: Leadership/ Law elective teacher
Number of Years in the BTU: 23
Professional Organizations: Florida Bar Association, 22 yrs; DEC,12 yrs;
Association for Women lawyers
Union Experience: Executive Board Member; Master Steward; Union Constitution
Committee Member; Budget Committee; COPE-TIGER Committee; Member of
BTU president expulsion charging party committee
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): Executive Board member instrumental
in taking proactive steps to preserve the integrity of our Union by requesting an
AFT financial review. I will fight for respect and dignity of members by demanding
accountability of our Union, County and State to provide lower cost health
insurance, salary step and retirement benefits.
---
Name:
Jillian Haring
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; NEA Delegate; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Forest Glen Middle
Subject: ESE-SVE / Social Studies
Number of Years in the BTU: 11
Professional Organizations: NEA; FEA; AFT; AFL-CIO
Union Experience BTU-EP Negotiation Team Member; BTU Surplus/Layoff
Committee Member; BTU Constitution Committee Member; BTU Budget
Committee Member; BTU Designated Steward; SAC Member; Faculty Council
Chair; Discipline Committee Chair; FLDOE Social Studies Core Curriculum
Committee Member
Page 12 of 32

Platform Statement (50 words maximum): As a member of The Clean Slate, I hope
to provide BTU members a voice for their rights, and needs in an ethical, fair,
accessible environment. My primary goal is to ensure transparency in all BTU
activities while being a diligent, strong voice for you. Thank you for your
consideration.
---
Name: Caryl Hattan
Candidate Positions: NEA delegate; AFT delegate; FEA delegate
School/Work Location: Whispering Pines School
Subject: Curriculum Facilitator K-12
Number of Years in the BTU: 23
Professional Organizations: Council for Exceptional Children; International Reading
Association; Democratic Executive Committee; Central Labor Council; AFL-CIO; NWPC
of Florida -Vice President; Broward's Gwen Cherry Chapter of the NWPC, Davie
Woman's Club
Union Experience: Executive Board Member; COPE Committee Chair; Lobbying in
Tallahassee; NEA Annual Convention in Chicago; AFL-CIO BTU Rep; District Advisory
Committee BTU Rep; District Bullying Committee Member; Building Steward
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I wish to have input into what is coming up.
This is a BIG year for elections and I want to know what the plans are for us to get the
right candidates elected! Mostly I wish to represent you, Always remember: YOU ARE
THE UNION!
---
Name: Michael Hornsby
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member
School/Work Location: Sunset School
Subject: ESE, Reading and Language Arts
Number of Years in the BTU: 6
Professional Organizations: Faculty Council; School Advisory Council; District
Training for Support Professionals
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Union Experience: ER&D Trainer Master; Steward; Marzano Focus Group;
Constitutional and By Laws Committee
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I am a member of the Clean Slate and I
would like to be the voice of all Union Members on the Executive Board. I believe
in integrity and change. I am ready to accept the responsibility to be accessible to
all union members and be an agent of change.
---
Name: Doris Itzkowitz
Candidate Positions: NEA Delegate; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Pre-K-2 KCW
Subject: Head Start Preschool Program
Number of Years in the BTU: 25
Professional Organizations: Broward County Recognition Program; Democratic
Executive; Committee Civil and Human Rights Committee
Union Experience: Designated Steward; Para-Pro Trainer; ESP Trainer
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): My wish is to represent all the professionals
in this county who believe in the importance of Early Childhood Development. The
important issues that we will be facing in the future, begin with a strong and early start in
PUBLIC EDUCATION.
---
Name:
Alan Jablonowitz
Candidate Positions: NEA Delegate; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Drew Family Resource Center
Subject: Intensive ESE Pre-K
Number of Years in the BTU: 22
Professional Organizations: BTU; BTU COPE-TIGER; Broward Educational Foundation
Union Experience: BTU Union Steward; BTU / School District Compensation Committee
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Member
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): As a BTU Steward and FEA Delegate, I have
worked to ensure that our rights are protected. My role on the BTU / District
Compensation Committee will be the development of the upcoming Performance Pay
Plan. Please allow me to fight for you on the state (FEA) and national (NEA) level.
---
Name: Dr. Lisa Jacques
Candidate Positions: NEA Delegate; AFT Delegate
School/Work Location: Hallandale High School
Subject: English Teacher
Number of Years in the BTU: 11
Professional Organizations: BTU; International Reading Association Order of Eastern
Star
Union Experience: BTU Steward; CHR Member; New Teacher Orientation Committee
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): It would be my pleasure to represent the BTU
at the national convention in order to garner substantial information in this most crucial
time to share with our membership.
---
Name: Bernie Kemp
Candidate Positions: NEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Liberty Elementary School
Subject:
Number of Years in the BTU: 3
Professional Organizations: Florida PTA Board of Directors; United Way Board of
Governors; Broward Education Foundation Board of Directors
Union Experience: BTU-ESP Negotiation Team
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): It is my plan to gain information concerning
union issues and news to share with my fellow union members as I serve as the
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epresentative.
---
Name:
Hal Krantz
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Coral Springs Middle School
Subject: ESE Support Facilitator
Number of Years in the BTU: 17 years
Professional Organizations:
Union Experience: Sponsored letter to bring the AFT to review BTU finances;
Headed the expulsion charging party committee of members against the former
BTU president; FEA and AFT delegate; Sick Bank Committee; Constitutional
Committee; Budget Committee; Spokesman for BTU at school board meetings;
Successfully lobbied the school board to change its policy on paraprofessional
medical leave
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): As an executive board member, I look
at the BTU as a family, and as all families, we run into hard times. Overcoming
these hard times and moving forward, BTU will become a stronger. I am asking
for your support to continue as a voice of the membership.
---
Name: Vicky LaPorte
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; AFT Delegate; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Atlantic Technical Center and Technical High School
Subject: American Government, Economics, and U.S. History
Number of Years in the BTU: 12
Professional Organizations: AFL-CIO (BTU representative on the Central Labor
Council); AFT; NEA; FEA; BTU (Designated Steward); Democratic Executive
Committee (Precinct Chairperson); BTU COPE-TIGER
Union Experience: BTU Designated Steward; Member of the COPE Committee;
Member of the Union Constitution and By-Laws Committee; BTU Area
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Coordinator; Faculty Council Treasurer; BTU representative on SAC; Participated
in Education Stakeholder Community Forum; Participated in Evaluation Focus
Forum; Participated in Funding Focus Forum; Legislative Lobbyist for BTU in
Tallahassee; Legislative visits in South Florida; Represented BTU at the AFL-CIO
Labor Ball; Represented BTU at DEC Unity Dinners; Represented BTU at the
Florida Democratic Convention; Participated in numerous rallies; Participated in
political activities including phone-banking and distribution of palm cards at
polling sites; Teacher-Leader and BTU steward for all new evaluation /
iObservation in-services
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): The Executive Board has the
responsibility to ensure that the mission and vision of the BTU is being observed
and met. As a member of the Clean Slate, I will strive to make sure members are
empowered through accessibility, and those working on your behalf are guided
by ethical accountability.
---
Name: Shanell Lee
Candidate Positions: NEA Delegate; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Collins Elementary School
Subject: 2nd Grade
Number of Years in the BTU: 2
Professional Organizations: Collins Elementary PTA, President 2010-2012; Collins
Elementary School Advisory Committee I Zone Representative; National Education
Association Member, 2011-2012
Union Experience: BTU member since 2010
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I look forward to the opportunity to serve the
Broward Teachers Union as a convention delegate. I promise to work diligently at the
task at hand. I strive to continually make positive contributions to my community and my
profession.
---
Name:
Louise Lefton
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member
School/Work Location: West Hollywood Elementary School
Page 17 of 32

Subject: Elementary Education, ESOL
Number of Years in the BTU: 22
Professional Organizations: BTU; TESOL; PTA
Union Experience: Master Steward; ER&D Trainer; Marzano Focus Forum; Phone
Banking; Rallies; SAC Committee; Faculty Council
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): As a member of the Clean Slate, I
pledge to work to bring pride and strength back to our profession and union. We
should raise our collective voice to demand the respect we deserve by
representing all members. I will work with everyone openly and honestly to
resolve your problems.
---
Name: Michael J. Marchetti
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member
School/Work Location: Physical Plant Operations - Zone 2
Number of Years in the BTU: 12
Professional Organizations: Life Cycle Institute Pride in Maintenance
Union Experience: BTU-TSP Negotiating Team; BTU-TSP Appeals Team; BTU-
TSP Facilities Task Force Rep.
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I am a steadfast supporter of organized
labor who has worked tirelessly to expose waste, fraud, and mismanagement
within the District. My efforts are intended to have management held accountable
for their actions to save precious resources for the classroom. I will bring this
same passion to the Executive Board.
---
Name: Ricardo Marino
Candidate Positions: Executive Board
School/Work Location: South Plantation High School
Subject: Social Studies
Page 18 of 32

Number of Years in the BTU: 2
Professional Organizations: National Executive Financial Chair for Lambda Theta
Phi Foundation
Union Experience: Active Member
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I have taught in Broward County since
1998; certified in Social Sciences; taught grade levels from 6-12. I am a graduate
from the University of Florida, Ricardo and majored in Advertising and worked in
web design and online marketing. I have also coached basketball in Broward
County for 14 years.
---
Name: Ronald Marx
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; NEA Delegate; AFT Delegate; FEA
Delegate
School/Work Location: Fort Lauderdale High School #0951
Subject: American History / Social Sciences
Number of Years in the BTU: 6-7
Professional Organizations: AFT; NEA; FEA through BTU
Union Experience: Worked on two personal work-related issues with BTU Field
Representatives; both issues successfully concluded.
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): As a history teacher, I understand and
appreciate the special role organized labor has played in this country. Teachers
are the vanguard of organized labor, and must do everything possible to repeal
Florida State Statute Article 1 §6 with respect to our right to strike when we're
being treated unfairly.
---
Name:
Kenneth Minchew
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; AFT Delegate; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Westpine Middle
Page 19 of 32

Subject: World History
Number of Years in the BTU: 13
Professional Organizations: BTU; FEA; AFT; NEA and AFL-CIO
Union Experience: BTU Steward; Legislative Lobbyist; BTU COPE-TIGER
Member; SAC/BTU Representative; Phone Banking; Rallies; Leafleting and BTU
iObservation / Marzano / Evaluation Committee
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I am a member of the Clean Slate and
would like the opportunity to represent all union members on the Executive
Board. I am ready to accept the responsibility to work on your behalf. I want to
give the union back to our members and continue building our organization.
---
Name: F. Venecia Moreno
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member
School/Work Location: Hallandale Elementary
Subject: Spanish
Number of Years in the BTU: 17 Years
Professional Organizations: BTU; Broward Association of Foreign Language
Educators; Member of COPE; Member of the American Federation of Teachers;
Member of NEA
Union Experience: Assistant steward for the past four years; Officer for the
Faculty Council at Hallandale Elementary; Have worked at various election sites
distributing literature to voters
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I will work for the BTU Membership as
an advocate to make sure that every members’ interest are represented. I will
serve as a voice for all members. I will do my best to encourage our Executive
Board to continue to stay united and focused to maintain our Union’s strength.
---
Name: Linda Aten Morris
Candidate Positions: Executive Board; FEA Delegate
Page 20 of 32

School/Work Location: Dave Thomas Education Center West
Subject: H.S. Social Studies and Visual Art
Number of Years in the BTU: 16
Professional Organizations: FERA -Florida Educational Research Assoc. IRA -
International Reading Association BAEA -Broward Art Educators Assoc.
Union Experience: Human and Civil Rights Committee Member; Steward
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): Honest, insightful and thoughtful action
is the only possible way to achieve our goals.
---
Name:
Gloria Moss (Withdrawn Candidate on the Ballot)
School/Work Location:
Subject:
Number of Years in the BTU:
Professional Organizations:
Union Experience:
Platform Statement (50 words maximum):
---
Name:
Mark Murray (Withdrawn Candidate on the Ballot)
School/Work Location:
Subject:
Number of Years in the BTU:
Professional Organizations:
Union Experience:
Platform Statement (50 words maximum):
Page 21 of 32

---
Name: Earthalene Perry
Candidate Positions: FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Village Elementary / 1621
Subject:
Number of Years in the BTU: 24 years
Professional Organizations: BTU; FEA; AFT; NEA; AFL-CIO
Union Experience: Lobbyist for BTU in Tallahassee; BTU Representative for AFL-CIO/
Federation; Volunteered for candidate campaigns; worked at early voting sites; and a
BTU Representative for the Democratic Executive Committee (DEC)
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I have been a member of BTU for 24 years
and a Steward for 21 years. I work hard to assist the members at my school with union
issues. I'm a member of COPE and CHR Committees. Please vote for me for FEA State
Delegate. Thank you!
---
Name: Susan Pignato
Candidate Positions: FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Forest Hills Elementary
Subject: 5th Grade
Number of Years in the BTU: 23 yrs.
Professional Organizations: National Council Teachers of Mathematics; International
Reading Association
Union Experience: BTU Scholarship Committee; Constitution Committee; Budget
Committee; Executive Board Member; COPE Executive Committee; Sick Bank
Committee; Master Steward; AFL/CIO Central Labor Council Delegate; Delegate to AFT
Convention; Delegate to NEA Convention; Delegate to FEA Convention
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): It would be my great pleasure to represent
you at the upcoming NEA and FEA Conventions. Seeing the BTU grow and continue to
serve our membership is my only goal.
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---
Name: Ruth E. Martinez Pineiro
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member
School/Work Location: JP Taravella HS
Subject: English 6-12/Reading
Number of Years in the BTU: 9
Professional Organizations: American Federation of Teachers; National
Educators Association; Girl Scouts of America; Boy Scouts of America
Union Experience: Member; Steward; Designated Steward; Constitution
Committee
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): As a member of the Clean Slate
platform, I support accessibility for all members in all levels of Union leadership. I
want to see fresh faces in leadership who are looking to bring positive change
and ethical accountability in the executive board and at all levels of Union
leadership.
---
Name: Leslie Rainer
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; NEA Delegate; AFT Delegate; FEA
Delegate
School/Work Location: Blanche Ely High School
Subject: Reading Teacher
Number of Years in the BTU: 22
Professional Organizations: All union related groups
Union Experience: Union Steward for Blanche Ely High School
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): Having been exposed (falsely accused)
in the media as negative teacher within our school system has sparked a fight in
me to help other teachers have a voice, fight for teacher rights, and fight for
teachers to not suffer abuse by unfair administrators who abuse their paper and
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pen power!
---
Name: Mohammed Rasheduzzaman
Candidate Positions: Executive Board
School/Work Location: Kathleen C. Wright Central Administration Center
Number of Years in the BTU: 4
Professional Organizations: American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP)
American Planning Association (APA)
Union Experience: Designated BTU-TSP Steward for Kathleen C. Wright Central
Administration Center Member – AFL-CIO, National Education Association (NEA),
American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Florida Education Association (FEA)
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): TEACHERS FIRST!! – If education is the
backbone of a nation, the teachers are the foundation of that backbone. My first
priority is to fight for the welfare and wellbeing of all teachers. Will fight for
complete democracy, transparency, and accountability in the BTU operations.
Fearless to seek equity and justice!!
---
Name:
Bernie Schultz
Candidate Positions: AFT Delegate; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Broward Teachers Union Office
Subject:
Number of Years in the BTU: 26
Professional Organizations: Board of Directors Soreff JCC Board of Directors; Broward
AFL-CIO Board of Directors; Broward Education Foundation
Union Experience: First Vice President; AFT Public Policy Committee
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): As in the past, I will represent the BTU at the
conventions and bring back information to help the BTU move forward. I would
appreciate your continued support.
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---
Name:
Liz Fernandez Shurak
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; AFT Delegate; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: McFatter Technical Center - Post Secondary
Subject: BA in English; Certified in English 6-12, ESOL K-12; Masters in TESOL
Number of Years in the BTU: 31
Professional Organizations: TESOAL; ASCD; AFL-CIO; AFT; FEA; BTU and BTU
COPE-TIGER
Union Experience: Graduate Steward; Steward Trainer; ER&D Trainer; Highly
Qualified Para Trainer; Union Constitutional Committee; Budget Committee; Race
to the Top District Committee; Marzano Focus Forum
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): The Clean State is a representative
group of dedicated intelligent people already working hard to move our union
forward. We are strong , independent thinkers who stand up for our members and
will be accountable to them. Have your voice heard. Vote The Clean Slate - MAIL
YOUR BALLOT today!
---
Name: Leonard Sklar
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Whispering Pines Off Campus Adult Program Teacher
Subject: Exceptional Education
Number of Years in the BTU: More than a quarter of a century
Professional Organizations: BTU; FEA; AFT; NEA; AFL-CIO; and C.O.A.B.E.
Union Experience: BTU Executive Board; Past member of the Sick Bank
Committee; and BTU Building Committee; Participant in contract rallies
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I am proud to have represented you as
a Master Level Steward, Executive Board Member, and Union Activist. Please
allow me as a seasoned Executive Board Member to continue to safeguard your
rights that have a direct impact on your livelihood, professional issues, and
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personal concerns.
---
Name: Debbie Theaman
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; NEA Delegate; AFT Delegate; FEA
Delegate
School/Work Location: Silver Shores Elementary School
Subject: ESE Preschool
Number of Years in the BTU: 10
Professional Organizations: National Education Association; Florida Education
Association; American Federation of Teachers; Pembroke Pines Democratic Club
member; Hadassah member; SAC at Silver Shores Elementary School
Union Experience: Steward at Silver Shores Elementary School; Member of the
Sick Bank Committee; Member of the Constitution Committee; Delegate to the
FEA, NEA, and AFT conventions ; COPE-TIGER Committee; Representative in
Tallahassee from BTU; Political action volunteer working at polling sites on
election days
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I am passionate and fully committed to
the growth and strength of our Union. By example, I will encourage participation
and support for the BTU in all activities to the benefit of our membership. I will be
honored to serve on the board and respectful of our goals.
---
Name: Dr. Pedro Torres
Candidate Positions: Executive Board; NEA Delegate; AFT Delegate; FEA
Delegate
School/Work Location: Blanche Ely High School/Medical Magnet
Program/Science Department
Subject: Anatomy & Physiology - Dual Enrollment & Honors
Number of Years in the BTU: 6
Professional Organizations: Broward Teachers Union; School Advisory
Committee; Professional Development Team; Faculty Council
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Union Experience: BTU Steward
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): My objective is simple: create a
working environment for all our teachers which will meet our needs and promote
the excellence of teaching and learning for all through creative measures.
---
Name: Chris Townley
Candidate Positions: Executive Board
School/Work Location: Olsen Middle School
Subject: ESE SVE grades 6-8
Number of Years in the BTU: 8
Professional Organizations: Certified Coach with Special Olympics Florida
Union Experience: I am an active dues paying member.
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I don’t believe anyone's voice should
go unheard. It has been too long since ESE has had voice when it comes to
policy decisions. I want to give students with disabilities a voice when it comes to
deciding their future. My goal is to serve Broward’s schools most overlooked
population.
---
Name: Barbara Fernandez Valdes
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; NEA Delegate; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Title I
Subject: Academic support for Supplemental Educational Services
Number of Years in the BTU: 28
Professional Organizations: BTU; FEA; AFT; TESOL
Union Experience: BTU member since 1984; Building Steward 2009 to current
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): My years in education have enabled me
to develop communications skills that are vital in attaining goals. I understand
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different sides of situations, and believe in finding solutions instead of criticizing.
A fresh look in leadership will enhance the positive change we are currently
navigating within BTU.
---
Name:
Hector Varas
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member
School/Work Location: Crystal Lake Middle
Subject: Spanish/ World History
Number of Years in the BTU: 28 years
Professional Organizations: Broward Teachers Union (BTU); AFL-CIO; American
Federation of Teachers (AFT); School Improvement Plan (SIP); School Advisory
Committee (SAC); Government Relations/Legislative Committee
Union Experience: Designated Steward (14 years); Executive Board since (9
years); Union spokesperson for Spanish radio and television media
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I pledge to continue to be an
committed, proactive, strong, task-oriented Executive Board member. I will do my
utmost to promote membership and the flow of information to all members. I
believe strength in members and knowledge makes a powerful combination that
unifies us all.
---
Name: Gloria Waller
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; NEA Delegate; AFT Delegate; FEA
Delegate
School/Work Location: Pre-k-2 Department
Subject: Education Support Professional
Number of Years in the BTU: 3
Professional Organizations: NEA; FEA; AFT; AFL-CIO; BTU COPE-TIGER
Union Experience: Broward ParaProfessional Executive Board Parliamentarian;
Broward ParaProfessional Election Committee; BTU-ESP Designated Steward;
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BTU Election Committee; Phone Banking; Rallies
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): As a member of the Clean Slate. I would
like to bring to the Executive Board trust, accountability, and responsibility to all
members. I will take this opportunity to represent them with much vigor and
pride.
---
Name:
Betty Fritz Warren
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member
School/Work Location: Banyan Elementary School
Subject: Math & Science Coach / Specials Teacher
Number of Years in the BTU: Nine Years
Professional Organizations: Broward Teachers Union; Florida Education
Association; American Federation of Teachers; National Education Association;
AFL-CIO; National Board for Professional Teaching Standards; Broward Guild of
Teachers
Union Experience: BTU Designated Steward; ER&D Trainer; School Advisory
Council; BTU Representative; Marzano Focus Forum; Get Out the Vote Phone
Banking; Political Action Groups
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): As a member of The Clean Slate, I want
to give the union back to our members, restore pride in our profession, and help
to lead us in a positive direction of change. I want to be known as a unifying force
in our Union and our profession.
---
Name: Sandra Weaver
Candidate Positions: FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Tedder Elementary
Subject: Head Start
Number of Years in the BTU: 18+
Professional Organizations: National Association for the Education of Young Children
Page 29 of 32

Union Experience: Union Steward
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): To recognize, support and strengthen the
rights of workers.
---
Name: Carissa Werder
Candidate Positions: AFT Delegate; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Pioneer Middle
Subject: Math
Number of Years in the BTU: 11
Professional Organizations: BTU; COPE-TIGER; AFT; NEA; FEA
Union Experience: Member of BTU Futures Committee and BTU New Educator
Committee, and Union representative on Student Code of Conduct Committee
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): My commitment is to educate and empower
our membership. I've been honored to represent our Union as a delegate at several
conventions over the past decade. As an effective communicator, I will disseminate the
state and national messages and incite others to activism.
---
Name: Jacqueline Gresham Wilkerson
Candidate Positions: NEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Lauderdale Lakes Middle / 1701
Subject: BMOD (Internal Suspension)/AES (Alternative External Suspension)
Number of Years in the BTU: 19 years
Professional Organizations: Faculty Council Professional Development Team; Discipline
Committee; Title One Liaison; District Paraprofessional Trainer; BTU Steward;
International Reading Association
Union Experience: Union Steward for 3 yrs / Graduate Level
Page 30 of 32

Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I am Jacqueline G. Wilkerson. I have had the
privilege of being a dedicated, hardworking, productive, and informative steward. Being
chosen as a delegate will allow me to be informed and to bring meaningful information
back to our members.
---
Name: Kalebra Jacobs-Williams
Candidate Positions: AFT Delegate; FEA Delegate
School/Work Location: Cypress Bay High School
Subject: French
Number of Years in the BTU: 8
Professional Organizations: BTU; BTU Cope-Tiger; NEA; FEA; AFL-CIO; SAC
Committee for Cypress Bay High; BAFLE; AATF
Union Experience: BTU Designated Steward; BTU Representative; SAC Committee
Member; Negotiations Team Member (2010 & 2012); AFT Organizer; Compensation
Committee; New Educator Committee; FEA Delegate; BTU Lobbyist; Salary Committee;
New Teacher Orientation Volunteer; Election Volunteer
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): I am a dedicated, active member who works
hard to ensure that our voices are heard and our needs are met. Therefore, I would like
to attend the FEA and AFT conferences as a BTU representative in order to gain new
information and learn how we can better empower ourselves.
---
Name: Sandy Lobel-Witlen
Candidate Positions: Executive Board Member; NEA Delegate; AFT Delegate; FEA
Delegate
School/Work Location: Parkside Elementary
Subject: Kindergarten
Number of Years in the BTU: 9
Professional Organizations: BTU;AFT; FEA; COPE-TIGER; AFL-CIO; ER&D
(graduate & trainer); University of Delaware (Admissions Representative);
Democratic Executive Committee (elected position); City of Coral Springs
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(Appointed Member Youth & Family Committee, Solid Waste & Recycling
Strategic Plan Committee and "Visioning Summit - 2022" Committee.
Union Experience: Graduate Master Steward training; COPE-TIGER; ER&D
(graduate & trainer); GOTV (campaign worker); FEA, AFT & NEA (RA delegate);
Perfect attendance at all open union meetings & rallies.
Platform Statement (50 words maximum): YES we can! ... Reorganize into a
strong, financially sound union with your "support & voice" and my belief in
"transparency". I am committed to becoming a valued member of the BTU E-
Board, assisting & coordinating union activities. I will continue to recruit
members and to address your issues.
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