Occasional Per Diem Teachers

Nov 21, 2001 3:29 PM

Welcome to the New York City public school system and your union, the United Federation of Teachers (UFT). As an occasional per diem substitute teacher,you are covered by a solid collective bargaining agreement providing you with significant contractual rights. You also are entitled to many union benefits. Chief among them are the services of union representatives who are here to help you and protect you in a wide variety of ways.

Dear Colleague:

If you have not already done so, I urge you to join the overwhelming majority of teachers by becoming a member of the UFT. Union members are part of an organization of 140,000 educators that includes full-time teachers,paraprofessionals, secretaries, guidance counselors, psychologists, social workers and others. We are affiliated with the 400,000-member New York State United Teachers and the 975,000-member American Federation of Teachers, which represents teachers nationwide. These affiliations give you collective power that works on your behalf at the Board of Education and City Council, in Albany and in Washington.

Although some per diems work for years as subs, many view this as a path to a full-time career. Whatever your choice, the UFT is here to help with our educational programs, career counseling and other assistance. The union exists to serve each and every one of its members. We even have a special committee just for per diem teachers. So don't hesitate to call on us with questions, concerns or problems. And be sure to get involved in your union. The UFT needs your ideas and support.

Sincerely,

Randi Weingarten
President

Although every effort has been taken to make this booklet as clear, accurate and complete as possible, conditions are subject to change through interpretation, grievances, court decisions, negotiations or legislation. For full details on how to get a full-time teaching position, see the UFT's How to Get a Job Teaching in New York City's Public Schools. If you would be starting as a preparatory provisional teacher or a certified provisional teacher, see the UFT's Regular Sub's Handbook.