Two AFT locals have been selected to receive an AFT grant and technical assistance for extreme classroom makeover projects in their school districts. The winners are the Rochester (N.Y.) Teachers Association, for its "This Old Classroom Makeover," a project organized by the local's health and safety committee, and the United Teachers of New Orleans, for its "Bridging the Gap Classroom Makeover," which will help improve the learning environments in several schools in the Recovery School District.

The AFT will provide a grant of up to $3,000, with two days of training in January 2008 for the coordinators from the selected locals, and ongoing technical assistance and support. A key component of the makeover program is that it must serve as a union-building activity that involves members and the broader community.

"Our members know firsthand that a good physical environment goes a long way in helping us reach our academic goals," said AFT president Edward J. McElroy in his letter to the winning locals, adding that he was confident they will "use this project to actively involve the community and create public discussion on why our children deserve a clean and healthy school."

The RTA proposal included letters of support from the school district administration, the central labor council, the state AFT affiliate and other elected officials. RTA also plans to develop collaborative relationships with the American Lung Association, the U.S. Green Building Council and Rochester Institute of Technology. In addition to raising awareness about the condition of buildings, the local also seeks to involve newer members in the union. 

The United Teachers of New Orleans project builds on walk-throughs of nine public schools conducted in September by a coalition of community organizations, including UTNO, Louisiana ACORN, Crescent City Peace Alliance, Downtown Neighborhood Improvement Association and The Algiers Group. The outcome of those walk-throughs was a "wish list" from each school for ways to make the learning environment more attractive and inviting. UTNO plans to select two winners and has submitted letters of support from ACORN and the Recovery School District.  UTNO is also seeking advice and assistance from the Peoples Hurricane Relief Fund, Common Ground, the local Lowe's store, Home Depot Foundation and ExxonMobil public affairs for support and advice.

December 14, 2007