MEMORANDUM

Memo To:   All Buffalo Teachers

From:         Philip Rumore, President, BTF

Date:          June 7, 2021

Subject:     Mass Confusion – Never a Dull Moment / SBF Update

By now, you have heard that masks are still required in schools as per the most recent guidelines.
Many have asked what caused the confusion.

• Attached (Click Here), is the letter from New York State Commissioner of Health, Howard A. Zucker to CDC Director, Rochelle P. Walensky.

Many interpreted it as rescinding the mask requirements in New York State schools.

• On Sunday, New York State Education Commissioner, Dr. Betty A. Rosa issued the statement contained in the attached NYSUT correspondence (Click Here).

• As you know, Superintendent Cash also issued a statement (Click Here).

Most do not like having to wear a mask; however, our efforts have kept the pandemic in check in our schools. We will never know the number of lives saved or serious harm prevented due to our efforts. Even one is enough.

The Superintendent makes some good points in his correspondence.

With only three (3) weeks left, and after all the difficulties, challenges, uncertainties, and discomforts we have and still need to overcome, let’s continue to, as we always do, put as our priority, the safety and well-being of our students, parents, staff and community.

SBF Update – Dental
As per a previous update, for about a year now, we have been working to update our SBF Dental Plan and Operation. As you know, our reimbursements are different, e.g. family, yearly and lifetime limits, etc.

We have been working with a local company who has worked with us and a major provider, Delta Dental.

Since we have cumulative benefits and limits and some work to finish, implementation should begin in January 2022.

Teachers will still be able to use the old plan; however, there will be substantial savings for using the very extensive Delta Dental network.

In addition, teachers will only need to show an identification card or cell phone application.
For those choosing the network, there should no longer be delays in processing claims.

As soon as all details are worked out, we will send you information on the new and improved plan. It has taken a while to work out. We’re sure you will agree that it was worth the wait.

We apologize for the delay in processing SBF claims that the pandemic has obviously caused. Not only did it result in decreased personnel in the SBF office, but it also caused sharp fluctuations in providers’ “office” hours and teachers seeking treatment.

Please stay well. Take no chances.

PR:su