MEMORANDUM

Memo To:   All Buffalo Teachers

From:         Philip Rumore, President, BTF

Date:          February 6, 2023 

Subject:    Negotiations / Fact Finding Votes / BPO

Thank you for taking the time to vote.

We apologize to those who asked for more time; however, we wanted to have a vote so that we could resume negotiations.

The results are:

66.10% (928) I support the negotiating team’s rejection of the January 30, 2023 Fact Finder’s Report.

26.57% (373) I do not support the negotiating team’s rejection of the January 30, 2023 Fact Finder’s Report.

7.34% (103) I abstain from voting.

This will put us in a strong position as we resume negotiations.

As you can see from our last email (Click Here), the Fact Finder’s report on salary was based on where we had progressed to in negotiations.

This progress (See Chart in the Link Above ) is a result of your solidarity and support (picketing, votes of no confidence, etc.).

We are not there yet.

We will, with your continued solidarity and support, have a contract that reflects your dedication to our students.

Negotiations
We have set the following dates to resume negotiations.

February 9, 2023 – Review Fact Finder’s Report
February 14, 2023 – Negotiations Based on February 9, 2023 Meeting

Thank you again for your trust, solidarity and support. You are the best… no, the very best.

As you may have heard, Governor Hochul has made huge increases in New York State Education Aid.

She has followed through on her commitment to fully fund Foundation Aid, funding for poorer school districts.

In the 2023-2024 school year, BPS will see an increase of approximately $71,696,428 thanks to the efforts of BTF and NYSUT. This is in addition to the previous two years’ increases of $41,260,020 in 2021-2022 and $34,993,967 in 2022-2023. These increases ($147,950,415 total!) provide sufficient resources for the District to offer a contract that supports our students and their teachers.

The Superintendent and Board are aware of these increases and have said they want to provide a contract that reflects their acknowledgement of Buffalo teachers’ support for our students.

We will see as negotiations continue.

Stay Tuned.

Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra
Once again, the BTF has purchased Flex Passes for the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra so our members and their families have an opportunity to attend a wonderful performance. The 2022-2023 season features the best of the Classics, Pop, Rock, Kids and BPO Film Series. With this variety of musical experiences, there is a performance that everyone can enjoy!

Flex Passes can be exchanged for any remaining BPO event (with the exception of Tower of Power on February 17th). Flex Passes can be redeemed over the phone, (716) 885-5000 - option 1, or in-person at Kleinhans. Flex Passes are good for anywhere in Section C and seats can be chosen when the passes are redeemed.

There is a $5 upgrade charge to exchange the flex pass for Shakespeare's The Tempest, Star Wars in Concert, and Mozart's Magic Flute.

Please fill out the attached form (Click Here) and return it to the BTF by mail, 271 Porter Avenue, Buffalo 14201 or e-mail the information to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Please indicate whether you would like to pick up your tickets at BTF or have them mailed to your home.

Thank you for supporting the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.

PR:su