On a beautiful day in mid-September, just as the first full week of the school year was ending, the Bayonne Education Association (BEA) held a member appreciation event at the 16th St. Park.
Members were invited to do crafts, enjoy delicious food from local providers and connect with their friends and colleagues. In addition, the BEA invited NJEA Member Benefits to host a fair to help members maximize every dollar and enjoy exclusive services and discounts.
“My philosophy is to give back to the members,” says Gene Woods, president of the BEA. “Public school employees are often overlooked, and I want our BEA members to know that their union appreciates and values them.”
The annual BEA member appreciation event began four years ago, and members and their families are invited to attend.
“I would like to congratulate the BEA team members and the NJEA staff,” says NJEA President Sean M. Spiller. “It took strength, commitment and hard work to make this the successful event that it is.”
More than 350 families registered to attend the barbecue. Many local businesses contributed to make the event a success.
Kristen Knight, a former teacher and now owner of the Crafty Fox Studios, engaged children and their parents in doing crafts. East Orange Caterers provided the food. The event included face-painting, cotton candy, popcorn and more.
“This event is a nice gift to members and the opportunity to have them bring their family,” says NJEA Secretary-Treasurer Petal Robertson. “It makes it so much easier for everyone to attend.”
