Harry Karpinski, former president of the BOCES United Employees, died Dec. 2 at the age of 59.
Harry served as the first president of the union and later on the labor-management committee and several negotiating teams. He started working at Monroe 1 BOCES in 1985 as a teacher of the deaf/hard of hearing. He was hired specifically to coordinate services between Rochester School for the Deaf students and Eastern Monroe Career Center.
Harry established a statewide organization, the Educational Support Service Personnel, for those who work with deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Now in its 22 year, ESSP is the only state organization of its type.
Always interested in technology, Harry expanded his career at BOCES with the Office of Assistive Technology team. He helped to bring the latest assistive technology to students with a multitude of special needs.
Harry is survived by his wife, Maryanne; a son, Stuart; and a family of beloved cats.
Source: NYSUT website
