Spring 2026 Retiree Chapter Program
Click here to register for any of the sessions below: Spring 2026 CSARC Educational Calendar Registration
Cancellation Policy: Refunds will be issued only if the canceled slot(s) are filled from the waiting list. No exceptions.
All cancellations must be submitted in writing via email to Paula Lombardo at plombardo@csa-nyc.org or Lucie Elio at luicie@csa-nyc.org.
For additional information or questions, please contact the Retiree Office at (212) 823-2075.
The Museum of Illusions - 77 Eighth Avenue, NYC, 10014
The museum features over 70 exhibits that trick the eye and challenge our perception of reality. Its holograms, optical illusions, and immersive installations encourage visitors to question what they see while learning about the science of vision, perception, and the brain. Guests can explore spaces where they appear to defy gravity, change size, or step inside a kaleidoscope, revealing how the eyes and brain can interpret the same information in surprising ways. Lunch will be at the Grey Dog Restaurant, near 14th street. (optional)
Leader: Rhonda Morgan Date: Tues. 3/3 Time: 11am – 1 pm Fee: $28 /$33 Limit: 15
Museum of Broadway - 145 West 45th Street, NYC, 10036
The Museum of Broadway is the only place in the world where you can have such an incredible in-depth experience learning Broadway's history, see costumes up-close, go backstage and found out about your favorite Broadway stars and discover what it takes to make the magic happen.
Leader: Beverly Stern Date: Tues.3/10 Fee: $35/ $40 Time: 11 am – 1 pm Limit: 10
Studio Museum in Harlem - 144 West 125th Street, New York, NY 10027
Studio Museum in Harlem is the nexus for artists of African descent. It collects, preserves, and interprets art created by African Americans, members of the African diaspora and artists of the African continent. We will have a one-hour tour of the museum with a guide to learn its history and see current exhibits on display of Tom Lloyd and An Arm’s Length: Expanding the Walls. CSA guests will be able to visit other exhibits while at the museum. Lunch will be at the Red Rooster Restaurant nearby. (optional)
Leader: Sylvia Egal Date: Wed. 3/4 Fee: $20/$25 Time: 11 am – 12:30 pm Limit: 20
Fabric & Textile Crochet Studio Visit
We will visit the studio of the community and textile artist, Carmen Paulino. She uses crochet to create large, colorful, meaningful displays. Her installations are seen all over the city, indoors and outdoors, as well. She will share with us how she develops her ideas, her process, her designs and her latest installation.
Carmen Paulino’s Studio 1590 Park Avenue, NYC 10029; 115th Street, La Marqueta
Leader: Ronnie Feder Date: 3/24 Time: 11 am – 12:30 pm Fee: $20/$25 Limit: 12
The Edge - 30 Hudson Yards, NYC, 10001 4th Floor
Edge, which is the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, lets you experience the city from a thrilling height with its glass floor and angled walls. Head to Edge's sky deck on the 100th floor and enjoy the immersive multimedia experience about the history of Hudson Yards before stepping onto the thrilling glass floor. Take in breathtaking 360-degree views of NYC, including iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. Lunch at the food court.
Leader: Arlene Ramos Date: Tues. 4/14 Time: 11am-12pm Fee: $40/$45 Limit: 10
Hindu Temple in NJ - 12 North Main Street, Robbinsville, NJ 08561
Participants will travel by van to The PAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (Hindu Temple), in Robbinsville, New Jersey, largest in the United States. People who have visited there say that the Taj Mahal pales in comparison with its beauty. It is a cultural and spiritual complex that functions as a large-scale temple and museum for showcasing Hindu culture and wisdom. The tour includes how the temple was constructed, significance of the mandirs in modern life, and the impressive inside of the temple. There is a dress code: must cover shoulders, chest and upper arms; shorts/skirts must be knee-length. After the tour, lunch will be enjoyed at the Italian restaurant, Villa Barone. The tour guides are Art & Susan Zuckerman. Van pick-up will be at the Sunac Natural Market, 600 West 42nd St., (10th & 11th Aves).
Leader: Ana Maldonado Date: Thurs., 4/16 Time: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Fee: $115/$120 Limit: 12
NY Chinese Scholar’s Garden - Snug Harbor Cultural Center: 1000 Richmond Ter. Staten Island 10301
The Chinese Scholar’s Garden is a compilation of different gardens in China. It is based on the Ming Dynasty gardens (1368-1644 AD). The garden features magnificent rocks resembling mountains that inspired the poetry and paintings of Confucian, Buddhist, and Taoist monks, as well as other scholars. Participants of the tour can explore eight pavilions, a bamboo forest path, waterfalls, a Koi-filled pond, Chinese calligraphy, and a variety of Ghongshi scholar’s rocks, including a 15-foot formation that towers over the central courtyard. Restaurant nearby, (optional).
Leader: Stacie Watkins Date: Wed. 4/29 Time: 11am-12:30pm Fee: $4/ $9 Limit: 20
Old Westbury Gardens and Mansion - 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury, NY, 11568
Discover the timeless charm of Old Westbury House and Gardens, a historic gem on Long Island. You will be transported to an era of grandeur on Long Island. You will visit through the opulent rooms of the mansion built in 1906. You will also explore the meticulously landscaped gardens. This estate is on the National Register of Historic Places. Several well-known movies have been filmed on the premises. Lunch will be at the “Café in the Woods” (separate fee).
Leader: Patricia Mack Date: Thurs. 5/14 Time: 11am-3pm Fee: $14/ $19 Limit: 15
White House Experience The Roosevelt School - C.W. Post Campus, 720 Northern Blvd. Greenvale, Long Island
White House Replica is the only one in the Northeast. (1 of 4). There will be a life size replica of the White House with an Oval Office, Situation Room, and Press Briefing Room (1st Floor) and Residence (2nd Floor). Visitors can play the role of U.S. president. White House Cabinet, Press Reporters as they navigate a “crisis”. The Museum of Democracy exhibit contains hundreds of artifacts from presidential politics ranging from George Washington through present day. After the tour, lunch will be enjoyed at a near-by restaurant (Separate fee).
Leader: Joyce E. Bush Date: Tues., 5/19 Time: 12-2 pm Fee: $33/ $38 Limit: 20
New York Bateaux Brunch Cruise - Pier 61, Chelsea Piers, West 23rd & 12th Avenue, New York
Come aboard a European-style, glass-enclosed Bateaux for a Brunch Cruise and be treated to a delectable à la carte menu served with mimosas, accompanied by DJ entertainment and jaw-dropping panoramic views of New York City’s skyline. Dress code: casual attire
Leader: Miriam Martinez-Diaz Date: Sun. 5/17 Time: 12 – 3 pm Fee: $135/ $140 Limit: 20
Governor’s Island Walking Tour - 10 South Street, New York, NY 10004
Governors Island offers a unique and relaxing escape from the city. Join the Retiree Chapter members and their family members as they explore the island’s natural beauty, art projects, history, and events. We will visit attractions such as an abandoned army building and forts and lost cemeteries. Your guide will be the author of “The Governor’s Island Explorer’s Guide”, Kevin C. Fitzpatrick. Lunch at “Picnic tables at Eva’s” (separate fee).
Leader: Steve Koch Date: Wed., 5/20 Time: 11am-1pm Fee: $38.50-$43.50 Limit: 10
Eclipso Virtual Reality Experience - 555 West 57th NYC, 10019
Eclipso is an immersive virtual reality experience center that uses cutting-edge technology to transport users to different historical, cultural and natural worlds. A VR headset enables users to step into detailed 360-degrees virtual environments and move around freely. The experiences are designed to be both fun and informative, making history and science accessible in a new way. Eclipso aims to make culture and travel accessible by recreating locations and events that are difficult to visit in real life. Lunch is optional.
Leader: Rhonda Morgan Date: Tues., 5/12 Time: 12:30-1:30 pm Fee: $40/$45 Limit: 20
Pioneer Daytime Sailing – Pier 16 Pioneer Sailing South Street Seaport Museum
Experience the thrill of daytime voyage aboard the historic 1885 Schooner Pioneer through the breathtaking New York Harbor. Watch the sails unfurl, feel the wind in your hair, and even join the crew to help raise the sails – or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views. Perfect for families and adventurers alike, this hands-on sailing experience offers fun for all ages, from learning sailor skills to steering the schooner under expert guidance. Make lasting memories on the water and discover the magic of sailing. You can bring food and refreshments.
Leader: Arlene Ramos Date: Sat. 5/30 Time: Check-in at 12pm; Boat: 12:45 –3 pm Fee: $45/$50 Limit: 10
Virtual Lectures
“The Constitution in Crisis"
Presenter: James Coll. Date: Mon., 3/2 Time: 1 – 2 pm No fee
The phrase "constitutional crisis" is often used--and sometimes overused--on cable news and among pundits. In this lecture, we will analyze a handful of historic situations that raised questions for consideration of the Supreme law of the land as well as how these events were resolved. Our analysis will include a discussion about the separate branches of government, federalism and any possible remedies constitutional framers envisioned for conflicts in the administration of the law.
“The American Revolution and the Fate of the World”
Presenter: Richard Bell Date: TBD. Time: 11 am-12:30 pm. No fee
Richard Bell, a professor at the University of Maryland and a renowned author of historically researched works, will present a thought-provoking message about the American Revolution and how it caused mass migration, disrupted trade, famine and many other contemporary issues that affect us today. How did America’s founding event create the world we know today?
Theater Coordinator: Paula Lombardo
Joe Turner, Come and Gone - The Barrymore Theater, 243 W. 47th Street, NYC
It centers on Seth and Bertha Holly who run a warm, orderly boarding house for those navigating uncertain paths. It chronicles the African American experience in the 20th century. The actors Cedric the Entertainer and Taraji P Henson will play the main characters.
Date: Wednesday, April 1 Time: 2:00 – 4:30 pm Fee: $159 Limit: 14 tickets
Ragtime - Lincoln Center Theater, 150 West 65th Street, NYC
Ragtime is a musical adaption of E.L. Doctorow’s novel that follows three fictional families in pursuit of the American Dream at the dawn of the 20th Century. All are grasping for the same dream, if only they can hold onto it.
Date: Wednesday, May 6 Time: 2:00 – 5:00pm. Fee: $149 Limit: 12 tickets
Clubs
Acrylic/ Watercolor Painting Instructor-Virtual: Nancy Baldwin
Date: Thursdays - 2/26, 3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/26, 4/9, 4/23, 4/30 Time: 1:30 – 3:30 pm Fee: $80/$85 Limit: 10
Come join our class! No previous drawing or painting experience necessary. Our professional art teacher will instruct and guide you in creating your own original piece of art, in a fun and relaxing atmosphere. Both acrylic and watercolor paints will be used in each class. Students will choose the medium of choice. Supplies are required for this class. The supply list will be emailed to you after registration. Grab a brush, paint and let the fun begin!
Chinese Mah Jongg Instructor: Beverly Hershkowitz
Date: Mondays - 2/23, 3/2, 3/9,3/16,3/23, 3/30 Time:10:00 am – 12:30 pm Limit: 16 Fee: $50/$55
Chinese Mah Jongg is a game of strategy, memory, and community. Whether you are brand new to the game or looking to sharpen your skills, the class offers a welcoming place to learn, play and connect. Beginners are invited and previous students are welcome.
American Mah Jongg - Instructor: Beverly Hershkowitz
Date: Mondays - 2/23, 3/2, 3/9,3/16,3/23, 3/30 Time:1:00 pm – 3:30 pm Limit: 16 Fee: $75/$80
The class is tailored for advanced players familiar with the rules and who are ready to take their game to the next level. Sessions will include strategic decision making good, personalized feedback, and tournament readiness.
Books and No Bagels - Virtual Facilitator: Beth Peller
Participants meet on a Wednesday, once a month, to discuss the book they read.
2/25/26 Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
3/25/26 The Art Spy by Michelle Young
4/29/26 The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Date: Wednesdays – 2/25, 3/25, 4/29, 5/20, 6/24, 7/29 Time: 10:30 am – 12 pm Fee: $20
Film (Virtual) - Facilitator Rhonda Morgan
The Film Club is for movie enthusiasts who appreciate the cinema. The group will meet once a month to discuss a chosen film. Movies will be viewed at home, at your convenience and the discussion will take place via Zoom. Each month’s selection relates to a National Awareness theme. You will not be asked to rent movies
Date: Wednesdays: 2/11, 3/11, 4/8, 5/13, 6/10 Time: 10 – 11:30 am Fee: $40/$45
Golf: Instructors – In Person: Bob Guido and Jeff Clarke (assistant)
North Shore Towers Golf Club, 500 Shore Road, Glen head, NY 11545
The instructors are golf professionals. The class will follow the theme of “Course Play” and all skills will be taught. With the small size of the group, Bob and Jeff will be able to personalize instruction, considering that everyone may not be at the same level. Please note, if we have sufficient numbers, we will run two sections. Section 1 will be filled first. Coordinator: Lucie Elio – Lucie@csa-nyc.org
Date: Wednesdays: 3/4, 3/11, 3/18, 3/25 Time: 10 am – 12 pm Fee: $200/$205 Limit: 10
Mystic, Connecticut - TBD
Coordinator: Rosemarie Sinclair
Registration must be completed exclusively through Cvent. Upon successful registration, payment may be made online by credit card or by mailing a check payable to the CSA Education Cultural Committee at 40 Rector Street, 12th Floor, New York, NY 10006.
NYC Nurses’ Strike
As you may know, nearly 15,000 NYC private‑sector nurses have been on strike since Jan. 12 to protect patient and nurse safety. For months, nurses have been bargaining for fair contracts, but management has refused to settle fair contracts that include enforceable safe staffing ratios, guaranteed healthcare benefits for frontline nurses, and protections from workplace violence. You can support nurses by taking action to support their fight for the fair contracts that New York’s nurses and patients deserve. Click here for a flier from the New York State Nurses Association on how to take action and support those on strike.
Girl Scouts Troop 6000
Launched in 2017, Girl Scouts of Greater New York’s Troop 6000 is a first-of-its-kind program designed to serve families living in temporary housing in the New York City shelter system. As a permanent fixture of the program, they established the Troop 6000 Transition Initiative, which supports Girl Scouts and their families as they transition to permanent housing. For Troop 6000 members, not only does Girl Scouting mean fun, it means consistency and community, and a network of supportive peers and adults. Click here to support Troop 6000 through purchasing cookies and more.
Associations
The Asian-American Association (A3) will hold its Lunar New Year Celebration on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 from 6:00–9:30 PM at Asian Jewels, 133-30 39th Avenue, Flushing, NY 11354. The cost is $25 for members and $125 for non-members. The evening will feature a lively Lion Dance performance and great food. We will proudly honor our Guest of Honor, Melissa Aviles Ramos, for her distinguished leadership and enduring contributions to our community, as well as AAPI members in CSA. Click here to register.
The CSA Latino Caucus will host their next event on Thursday, February 12, 2026 from 5:30– 9:30 PM at Fogo de Chão (445 Albee Square W, Brooklyn, New York 11201). Click here to RSVP as soon as possible to secure your spot. Click here to become a CSA Latino Caucus Member. The Latino Caucus is seeking borough representatives. If you’re interested in serving and haven't done so already, click here to fill out the interest form by Monday, February 23, 2026, before 5:00 PM.
The Association of Jewish Administrators will be holding its annual Purim Party on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Cho Sen Garden Kosher Chinese Restaurant at 64-43 108th Street Forest Hills, NY 11375 at 5 pm. Please REGISTER HERE to join, and email ajaofcsa@gmail.com if you have any questions.
Each year the Association of Assistant Principals (AAP) gives out its coveted Martin Safran Citizenship Awards to 15 students (in grades K-8) who have demonstrated exemplary service in their schools and/or communities. The winners, and their AAP-member assistant principals, are celebrated at a special event in May. At the same event, three high school students, whose parents are AAP members, receive $1,000 Stewart Weiner Scholarships based on merit. Applications for these AAP-members-only awards are due February 13, 2026. Members will receive an email with this year’s information. The Association of Assistant Principals will also be sending out its popular AAP Award Certificates for graduating students. AAP members in grades K-8 (and AAP Plus members in high school) will receive two AAP Award Certificates by mail in late May. Visit NYCAAP.ORG, if you would like to become an AAP member.
One of the goals of the EA Association (EAA) is to recognize the outstanding EAA members who show exemplary skills, support and dedication to their students, schools and communities. The Outstanding Education Administrator of the Year Award will be based on the following criteria: trust, integrity, ethics and professional norms; competence in their area of expertise; relationship building; and positive impact. Both the nominator and nominee must be current members of the EA Association (EAA). Click here to complete the nomination form. Email NYCEAA@gmail.com to confirm that your nominee is an EAA member before completing the application. Applications are due by March 3, 2026.
The 93rd Annual NYCESPA Convention will be held on Saturday, March 14th at Marriott Brooklyn Bridge. NYCESPA will be honoring Deputy Chancellor Isabel DIMola with the Ed Averill Leadership in Education Award and Former CSA Legislative Director John Khani with its Norm Sherman Friend of Education award. NYCESPA will also recognize NYCESPA member principals who are celebrating 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 years in the principalship during a Gala luncheon. The convention includes opportunities for principals and their teams to attend over one dozen workshops and a keynote address from Dr. Clay Cook, Implementation Specialist and Dr. Alisha Hill, Director of Professional Services at Character Strong. Principals also have the opportunity to participate in a Visit the Vendor contest for a chance to win one of a number of Amazon Gift Cards. Registration is found at: NYCESPA.93rd Convention Attendee Registration