Teachers union leader lauded for tragedy response (Newtown)

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http://www.newstimes.com/local/article/Teachers-union-leader-lauded-for-tragedy-response-4558753.php#ixzz2UmV9ZBFX

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"Even in the hardest of times, Tom has stepped up as a leader and continues to fight for the needs of, not only his fellow union members, but for all teachers nationwide," AFT President Melodie Peters said.

In the aftermath of one of the worst school massacres in the nation's history, Kuroski appeared before state and national lawmakers in Hartford and Washington, D.C., appealing for school safety measures, changes to the worker's compensation law to include trauma relief, and other legal protections to assure "this never happens again." He championed school security improvements and mental health and counseling supports for his peers.

He advised administrators about such things as holiday breaks and the need for a waiver of this year's state mastery tests.
"Tom frequently met with our staff in an attempt to understand our needs," said Janet Vollmer, a Sandy Hook kindergarten teacher and a building representative. "We found him to be extremely supportive in terms of issues regarding school safety and mental health. He is a wonderful leader."

His award nomination reads, "He sacrificed his personal time to attend every administrative meeting, even if he wasn't invited, to ensure his members were taken care of. Within the past five months, (Kuroski) has emerged from teacher and softball coach to lobbyist, advocate and friend to the Newtown community."

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1. K&R

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2. Awesome.