New York State United Teachers today announced the appointment of Kyle McCauley Belokopitsky, Esq. as the statewide union’s new Legislative Director, bringing to the role decades of experience in education policy, advocacy and government relations.
Belokopitsky joins NYSUT after serving for the past decade as executive director of the New York State Parent Teacher Association, where she championed policies that strengthened public education, elevated family engagement and expanded opportunities for children across New York. A respected attorney and longtime advocate for students and families, she has also held positions in both the New York state Senate and Assembly and previously represented NYSUT, the New York State Council of School Superintendents and the New York State Catholic Conference.
As legislative director, Belokopitsky will lead NYSUT’s lobby efforts in Albany, working with lawmakers and coalition partners to advance the union’s legislative agenda and protect New York’s public schools, students and educators.
“Kyle has spent her career fighting for children, families and strong public schools, making her an exceptional addition to the NYSUT team,” said NYSUT President Melinda Person. “She understands that every child deserves access to a high-quality public education and has built a career bringing people together to make that vision a reality. Her deep knowledge of education policy, and experience navigating the legislative process will be invaluable as we continue our work to fully fund our public schools; strengthen our SUNY, CUNY and community colleges; protect against private school voucher schemes; and fix Tier 6 for New York’s public employees. We’re thrilled to welcome Kyle back to NYSUT.”
“I am so humbled and excited to rejoin the amazing team at NYSUT fighting for our incredible students, teachers, School-Related Professionals, educators, professors, and healthcare professionals,” offered Belokopitsky. “I truly believe that we have an opportunity every day to make a difference for children and working families, and I do not take that responsibility and calling lightly. Every learner, no matter their age, race, ethnicity, zip code, income, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, immigration status or ability, deserves the highest quality, 21st century education in this ever-changing global economy, and to be fully supported where they are individually. And every worker, who practices their chosen profession at the highest levels of dedication and commitment, must be supported and valued. I am honored to represent them, continue to make a difference, and call NYSUT my ‘home’ again.”
Belokopitsky has been widely recognized for her leadership in education advocacy, including being named to City & State’s Education Power 100, PoliticsNY’s Power Players in Education and Schneps Media’s Power List. During her tenure at NYS PTA, the organization earned multiple national honors for advocacy, diversity and inclusion, family engagement and outreach.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Belokopitsky is deeply involved in her community through volunteer service, youth organizations and emergency response. She serves as an active firefighter with the Wynantskill Fire Department and previously served on New York’s Urban Search and Rescue Team, deploying to Ground Zero following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. She remains a dedicated advocate for fellow 9/11 responders and their health and wellbeing.
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