William Schwandt
Position running for: Vice President
Job title: Special Education Paraprofessional
Local name: Bloomington Federation of Paraprofessionals #4399
Email: wschwandt39@gmail.com
Statement
My name is William “Bill” Schwandt and I want to be your next vice president. As an ESP, the spouse of a teacher and having many friends who are educators, I have a broad and unique vision to the needs of all educators; aspiring, esp, active teacher, retired. Pre-k through higher ed.
I am the president of my local, a member of the council of local presidents, a governing board member and a member of the AFT Paraprofessional and School Related Personnel Policy and Program Council. I have also served on a number of committees for the AFT and Education Minnesota. I have the experience and knowledge to lead.
My greatest skill is the ability to listen, not to hear and respond but truly understand. I believe in the power of personal relationships and connecting with members regardless of their role or location. Education Minnesota works for our locals and individual members and it is the locals and individual members who will determine the focus of our union and its next leaders.
I fully support the Education Minnesota legislative platform of improving health care, pay and pensions for all educators. Additionally, we need to continue our work to address the issues that affect our working conditions. Schools must remain safe and respectful places for students and educators. As the educator’s union, we must preserve the freedom to teach and learn.
Given the next presidential administration that is positioned to take control, we can expect renewed and continued attacks on education and unions. I, as your next vice president, will stand ready to lead my union sisters and brothers to defend education against those who want to destroy it. I will encourage those who are willing to share their personal narratives and speak for those who can’t.
When given your opportunity to vote, I ask that you vote for William “Bill” Schwandt for vice president of Education Minnesota.
