With Chancellor Fariña’s announcement that the DOE plans to give us regular assignments, we are finishing our long run as teachers in the ATR pool. During our time as ATRs, we spoke to many children, teachers and administrators. We developed experience working in different school settings. And we got to scrutinize many aspects of public education.

We felt powerless at times, but we were able to rise above the hardship because of our dedication and devotion to the children we serve in New York City. Many tried to destroy our dignity, but we didn’t let them. When we were victims of lies about us, we came back stronger.

I wish my brothers and sisters a bright and happy future, which we do deserve. Our president, Michael Mulgrew, has fought tirelessly for us and we must always remember he was on that merry-go-round with us.

Barbra Nahoum, District 21 ATR