Your vote counts in union elections

All UFT members will soon have a chance to vote in the union-wide election. For newer teachers, this may be another “first” to add to your list.
The UFT holds elections every three years for all union officers — the people who:

• negotiate your contract;
• advocate for you on health and pension issues;
• represent you in discussions with city officials and the Department of Education;
• lobby for public education funding and against threats to tenure;
• speak on your behalf at public hearings and in the media; and
• make many decisions that could affect you throughout your career.

In addition to officers, members will elect the 78 members of the Executive Board, which recommends policies to the Delegate Assembly (DA), the union’s highest decision-making body. (The DA includes chapter leaders and delegates elected by each chapter in separate elections.)

Finally, you will elect 750 NYSUT/AFT delegates, as well as 50 NEA delegates. These delegates represent the UFT at conventions that discuss and make policy for our state and national affiliates. These candidates come from schools in every part of the city, possibly including your own.

In this issue of the New York Teacher [pages 29-36], you’ll find complete pre-election materials, including statements by the various candidates by slate (similar to a political party) and independents. Take the time to read them carefully and become familiar with the candidates, slates and election procedures, particularly if this is your first chance to participate in a union election.

Members will receive ballots by mail at their homes. This year, ballots will be mailed on March 12. Each ballot is several pages long because it lists all the candidates, including those running for convention delegate seats. You may vote by slate or for individual candidates.

Follow the instructions on the ballot to ensure that your vote will be secret and that it will not be disqualified on a technicality. An independent agency, the American Arbitration Association, mails, receives and counts the ballots. The AAA must receive ballots by April 6 and ballots will be counted on April 7.