New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) has endorsed North Country Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, in her bid for re-election to the New York State Assembly.

Assemblywoman Russell says she has made providing equitable funding to the North Country a priority during her tenure in the state legislature.

"A strong public education system is critical to our economy and the strength of our communities. Educators are the lifeblood of our system, and I appreciate their commitment to providing our students with a high quality education," she said.

Russell’s district includes all St. Lawrence County towns along the Seaway including Potsdam, Canton and Massena.

"They are true professionals, and I value their perspective. I am proud of my work to ensure teachers are helping drive education reforms rather than having those reforms driven by test companies. I am proud to receive NYSUT's endorsement," Assemblywoman Russell said.

NYSUT, in a press release, said they had backed candidates for the state Legislature and Congress that have championed public education, health care and workers' rights.

The endorsements were made by NYSUT's Board of Directors following two days of debate and deliberation by members of the union's political action committees and hundreds of local presidents, according to the NYSUT release.

NYSUT President Karen E. Magee said candidates' voting records and their working relationships with NYSUT members in their home districts were among the important factors in whether a candidate earned the union's support.

Russell said she looks forward to the support of NYSUT members on the campaign trail this fall.

"Teachers play such an important role in so many of our communities, both inside and outside the classroom. I look forward to their help in the coming months, their boots on the ground during the campaign, as we fight together to better the lives of the working men and working women of the North Country," Russell said.