The Peer Intervention Program

Jan 16, 2002 3:46 PM

Q: What if my principal or supervisor wants to observe and evaluate me during my participation in this program?

Answer: The contract specifically prohibits any observation and evaluation for the first three months of intervention.

Q: What if I want to apply and my principal doesn't want me to?

Answer: The contract guarantees your right to apply, and the principal is obligated to honor this right. You do not need permission. Q: What if my principal or supervisor is pushing me to apply or I have received a "U" rating or formal or formal warning - must I apply to the program?

Answer: No. The program is voluntary, and the ultimate decision to apply is yours alone.

Q: Can I apply to this program if I have not received a "U" rating or formal warning?

Answer: Yes. If you have good reasons to believe that you are having trouble,you are welcome to apply. The only requirements are that you are currently working with students and are committed to high standards of instruction.

Q: If I apply, is my acceptance guaranteed?

Answer: No. The Peer Intervention Panel carefully reviews all applications and-within the limits of program resources - selects participants who need to improve their teaching/counseling skills. Those not accepted are referred to other appropriate sources of assistance.

Q: Can this program help me if I have been denied such things as a transfer, medical leave, or sabbatical leave?

Answer: No. This program is designed to help you improve your teaching/counseling skills.For other kinds of assistance, your chapter leader can advise you how to proceed.

Q: How can I get more information? How and when do I apply?

Answer: Call the program at (212) 844-0600 for information. You can get an application from your chapter leader or from the program, and it can be submitted at any time during the year.

Q: What's the catch?

Answer: There is no catch! Participating in the Peer Intervention Program will affect none of your rights or privileges as guaranteed by the contract and protected by the union. And you will get the professional help you've been looking for!

The Peer Intervention Program was established by Article 21.G in the 1987collective bargaining agreement between the New York City Board of Education and the United Federation of Teachers. The Board and Union then chose the nine-member Peer Intervention Panel to work out the details of the program and select staff; it continues to oversee program policy and direction. Inline with the contract, the UFT chose six members of the panel and the Board chose three members. The program began operations in the fall of 1988.

In the spring of 2001 the Peer Intervention Program has opened its doors to Guidance Counselors as established by Article 15.G in the collective bargaining agreement of the Guidance Counselor Contract.