FROM THE PRESIDENT'S DESK
Joanne Auerbach, M.A., CTRS

Another new year for NYSTRA begins! The new Board meets for the first time in June, and welcomes two new Board members. Susan Colletti will be working with Tom McDonald as a 2012 conference co-chair. Annette Havens will take on responsibility for Professional Development Workshops Upstate. Conference co-chair for 2011, Lorrie Prescott, assumes responsibility for Legislation/Advocacy/PR. All other Board members continue in their current roles. (See complete list elsewhere in this newsletter.)

Looking back over the last year, we can see that much has been accomplished. The conference was one of the best ever! The annual report, made available at the membership meeting, is a summary of the many other goals achieved this year! If you were not at the meeting, you can see the annual report on the website (www.nystra.org). It includes the goals for 2011-12. Do read it. Think about it. Ask questions. Offer to help. Stay involved!

Looking ahead, we know that much remains to be accomplished. You recently received the summary of the membership survey. I want to thank every member who gave input, and I again want to thank Lynn Anderson who put together such an excellent summary. The survey will serve as the basis for the Board's work for the next several years.

This year, in response to preferences expressed on the survey, we will be exploring alternate locations for the 2013 conference. We will be focusing, also, on additional workshop opportunities in various parts of the state. The Policy and Procedure Manual will be updated. Most importantly, we will be supporting TR licensure in New York State ! The survey showed that the vast majority of NYSTRA members support licensure, and the NYSTRA Board is fully committed to working with the Licensure Committee to achieve passage of this bill. The efforts of every NYSTRA member are important. Watch for emails. Check the website for up-dates. Ask questions. Respond. Ask your colleagues to write letters. Stay involved!

As always, I encourage you to contact me with your ideas, concerns, or questions. Call (914) 597-2248 or email (jauerbac@burke.org). I'd love to hear from you.

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