Kampaign Time!

Building a stronger chapter together: Vote John Kamps because "we won't be on the menu anymore."

By Bethany Trench

Last Monday night, John Kamps hosted a Zoom meeting for paraprofessionals that drew more than 360 members. The turnout reflected the growing attention around the upcoming First Vice Chair election for the Paraprofessional Chapter and the interest many members have in the future direction of the chapter.

John, who is running for First Vice Chair, opened the meeting by introducing himself and sharing his background in the school system and the union. He has been a paraprofessional for 26 years, including 15 years at I.S. 5 in District 4. For the past 11 years, he has worked in the Personnel Department of the UFT, where he has played a direct role in supporting paraprofessionals across the city.

Throughout the meeting, John emphasized the work he has already been doing on behalf of members. He spoke about helping paraprofessionals navigate the termination list process and assisting many members in keeping their jobs. He also discussed organizing substitute paraprofessional hiring fairs that resulted in more than 5,000 substitute paraprofessionals being nominated, many of whom have since moved into permanent positions.

John promised members that the work would continue and improve moving forward.

The meeting was not only focused on the campaign. John also spent considerable time sharing updates and information that directly affect paraprofessionals.

One of the major topics discussed was the Respect Check. John explained that the issue remains at a standstill until the state budget is passed, but stressed that it continues to be one of the top three priorities for the council.

He also addressed one of the most common issues affecting paraprofessionals across the system: time and attendance. According to John, attendance issues remain the number one cause of termination among paraprofessionals. He reminded members that paraprofessionals receive five CAR days per term and that exceeding those days can result in a letter to file from a principal. Continued attendance issues can eventually lead to further disciplinary action.

Another important reminder focused on supervision rules outlined in Appendix A of the paraprofessional contract. John explained that paraprofessionals must remain under the direct supervision of a licensed pedagogue at all times. This applies not only in classrooms, but also during lunch and recess periods. He stressed that the rule is not a reflection on the capabilities of paraprofessionals, but rather a protection for members.

John also reviewed upcoming elections. Members were reminded that the First Vice Chair election will take place through mail in ballots and that it is important to return ballots promptly and encourage coworkers to do the same. He also noted that the TRS election would take place in schools on Wednesday, May 13th, and shared that the UFT has endorsed Tom Brown.

The conversation then shifted toward professional opportunities for paraprofessionals. John spoke about the unique skill set that paraprofessionals bring to schools and highlighted the Career Training Program as a pathway for members interested in becoming teachers. He discussed programs such as the voucher initiative, through which the DOE pays for up to six credits per semester during the fall, spring, and summer semesters.

As the formal presentation concluded, John reiterated his commitment to the chapter and to expanding opportunities for paraprofessionals.

“I enjoy this work that I do and I hope that I have the opportunity to do it for you for a longer period of time in this position,” he told attendees.

But the meeting did not end there.

After the presentation, John remained on Zoom for another hour answering questions directly from members. During the extended Q and A session, many attendees spoke openly in support of him. A consistent theme emerged throughout the discussion: members described John as accessible, responsive, and dependable.

Dr. Renee Freeman said, “John Kamps has been an integral part of our chapter. He answers immediately. You never have to wait hours or days. This is the person we want working with us continuously.”

Several members pointed out that no other candidate had organized a meeting specifically to hear directly from paraprofessionals in this way. Others shared personal stories about times John stepped in to help them or their colleagues during difficult situations.

One of the most personal moments of the evening came when John’s mother, Dorothy Kamps, addressed the group.

“I may be partial, but I know his work ethic,” she said. “I have to tell him at 11:00 on Saturday and Sunday, ‘Put your phone down.’ He has a wife and beautiful daughter, but his heart is with the UFT. He is the person you want fighting for you.”

She continued by emphasizing John’s relationships with council members and his role in helping move chapter initiatives forward.

“When, not if, you get the respect check, he will be on the forefront,” she said.

Throughout the night, John repeatedly encouraged members to reach out if they needed support, often ending answers with a simple message: “Email me if you need help.”

He returned often to a phrase that clearly resonates with many paraprofessionals: “Once a para, always a para.”

John closed the meeting with an emotional and direct message about the future of the chapter and the role paraprofessionals play within the school system.

“This is a labor of love for me,” he said. “I’m here for you guys. We’re stronger as a whole. This chapter makes a huge difference. Our voices make a huge difference. For far too long we were okay with our voices being muted. I am not going to allow that to happen any longer. Priscilla won’t let that happen. Exec Board is pushing what paras do, that we are the backbone of the system, and we are essential workers who deserve more. We will continue to make progress and push forward.”

He ended with a reminder that member participation matters.

“Make sure to register for contract negotiation. When the survey comes out, take it. If you aren’t on the table, you’re on the menu. We won’t be on the menu anymore.”