Baltimore City receives a new collection of teachers every year who are eager to make an impact on the young scholars in their classrooms. Before those excited teachers take their place in the classroom, it is vital they are prepared for the unique challenges and opportunities that being a Baltimore City educator provides. To reach that goal, the district provides an opportunity for new teachers to network with fellow new teachers and learn from those who have experience in the field. The New Teacher Summer Institute (NTSI) is a wonderful opportunity for teachers to be prepared to hit the ground running ahead of the new school year. This year’s event was held at Digital Harbor High School and AFT Maryland was once again in attendance.
President Kenya Campbell and Secretary-Treasurer LaBrina Hopkins, both former classroom teachers themselves, attended and engaged the new teachers (and new union members). As active members in the Baltimore Teachers Union (BTU) Local 340, they were both eager to share their knowledge and experience with the incoming crop of new teachers. “I love whenever I have the opportunity to be in the field, or in the workplace and talk to members. It is my favorite part of this job,” said President Campbell. She would go on to say, “I remember what it was like being a teacher early in my career and I want to pass along all the wise advice that was given to me that helped make my time in the classroom a little easier.”
Secretary-Treasurer Hopkins commented on the role the union plays in support of new teachers. “When you are just starting a new job there are a lot of moving parts and a lot of uncertainty. The union is a great resource to provide a sense of security. The intersecting relationship between the local, BTU, the state federation, AFT Maryland, and the national AFT provide resources, benefits, and security that allow new teachers in Baltimore City to have a place of security to turn to as they navigate their first year.”
The NTSI is a great place to organize and sign up new members. BTU was active in bringing new educators into the union family and AFT Maryland informed the newly minted unionists of all the benefits that come along with joining their local union and the power of being affiliated with the State and National federation.
Article & Photos by AFT Maryland staff
2024-08-21