Category Archive
UFT: Classrooms should not bear brunt of budget cutsOct 15, 2009
Governor Paterson on Oct. 15 unveiled his plan to deal with the state’s ballooning deficit. The proposed $3 billion in midyear budget cuts includes $220-$240 million in cuts to city schools. UFT President Michael Mulgrew said, “While we all recognize the state’s fiscal condition, the children in New York City’s classrooms should not have to bear the brunt of these cuts.”
UFT: Bloomberg's plan to create 100 new charter schools is "troubling"Sep 30, 2009
Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s campaign announced on Sept. 30 a plan to create 100 new charter schools, doubling the number currently in the city. The plan would also expand the Harlem Children’s Zone and create two new "Children’s Zones" in Central Brooklyn and the South Bronx. UFT President Michael Mulgrew said, “If I were a public school parent I would find these proposals from Candidate Bloomberg troubling.” He continued by saying that any expansion and improvement in the city’s schools should be shared by all students, not just those who attend charter schools.
UFT survey estimates 200,000 students in overcrowded classesSep 24, 2009
While the Department of Education has made some progress, 6,749 oversized classes still remained in New York City, with almost 3,500 such classes in Queens alone, on Sept. 24, the DOE’s deadline for getting class size into line under the contract. “There are still thousands of kids in overcrowded classrooms,” said UFT President Michael Mulgrew. “The Department of Education must get overcrowding down so teachers can give our kids the individual attention they need.”
UFT endorses Bill de Blasio for public advocateSep 03, 2009
The UFT on Sept. 3 endorsed Bill de Blasio, Democratic candidate for public advocate. In making the announcement, UFT President Michael Mulgrew praised de Blasio’s proven track record of championing public education and the needs of working-class New Yorkers. “The UFT is proud to endorse Bill de Blasio, who has distinguished himself by consistently fighting the good fight on behalf of better public schools and working families,” said Mulgrew.
UFT endorses John Liu for city comptrollerSep 02, 2009
The UFT on Sept. 1 endorsed John Liu, Democratic candidate for city comptroller. In making the announcement, UFT President Michael Mulgrew praised Liu’s exemplary record as a smart fiscal steward as well as his work to enhance and protect the lives and livelihoods of working families around New York City. “John’s vision, strong leadership skills and fiscal know-how make him the best candidate in this race in a field of very strong contenders,” said Mulgrew.
Number of "persistently dangerous" schools drops in cityAug 27, 2009
The State Education Department on Aug. 27 released its list of schools deemed “persistently dangerous” under the federal No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act. Fourteen New York City schools were removed from the list while another eight were added. UFT President Michael Mulgrew said, “School safety is a high priority of the UFT... and we have worked very collaboratively with the DOE and NYPD to identify and deal with issues.”
UFT endorses Cy Vance for Manhattan DAAug 26, 2009
The UFT on Aug. 26 announced its support for Cy Vance, Democratic candidate for Manhattan District Attorney. UFT President Michael Mulgrew cited Vance’s plans to prevent school bullying, protect teachers and staff, work closely with schools to help prosecute and prevent domestic violence and sex crimes, and keep schools safe. “Cy Vance is a leader with principles,” said Mulgrew.
Sen. Edward Kennedy dies at 77Aug 26, 2009
Sen. Edward M. Kennedy died of brain cancer on Aug. 25 at his home in Hyannis Port, Mass. He was 77. UFT President Michael Mulgrew said, “He always fought vigorously and was a champion of civil rights, education and the rights of workers. Senator Kennedy was a role model and he will be greatly missed by the United Federation of Teachers family.”
DOE to extend social promotion policy to 4th and 6th gradesAug 10, 2009
Mayor Bloomberg on Aug. 10 unveiled plans to enhance the DOE’s social promotion policy by including 4th and 6th graders. UFT President Michael Mulgrew said that "ending social promotion is a goal that we all share." But, he continued, "we also need to ensure that effective support and intervention services are in place and available for under-achieving students."
State Senate renews mayoral controlAug 06, 2009
The New York State Senate on Aug. 6 passed legislation on school governance, voting by a 47-8 margin to renew mayoral control. The Senate passed additional amendments that will create a parent training center, an arts council, yearly school safety meetings, and expanded oversight of principals by superintendents. UFT President Michael Mulgrew said, "With the governor’s support, this bill will provide the transparency and accountability, as well as parent participation, which will allow our school system’s progress to continue."
UFT reaches contract with state for home child care providersJul 31, 2009
The UFT on July 31 reached a two-year contract agreement with New York State that locks in a standard for determining pay rates and begins the phase-in of health insurance benefits. “This agreement is just the beginning,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten. “By reaching it we have taken a very first step to creating the foundation of professional growth and economic stability for a very deserving group of early childhood educators.”
More than 2,000 UFT educators remain in excessJul 30, 2009
The Department of Education announced on July 30 that more than 2,000 UFT educators remain in excess. UFT President-Elect Michael Mulgrew said, "We have been working for months with the Department of Education to address the issue of excessed educators, and we will continue to monitor the effects of the system-wide hiring freeze implemented by the department earlier this year."
Michael Mulgrew elected UFT presidentJul 29, 2009
The Executive Board of the UFT on July 29 voted to elect Michael Mulgrew as the UFT's new president effective August 1. Mulgrew, who has been serving as the union’s Vice President for Career and Technical Education (CTE) High Schools since 2005 and its Chief Operating Officer since 2008, replaces outgoing president Randi Weingarten. “The UFT has a long and renowned history of advocacy on behalf of our city’s public school students and educators, and I am very proud and humbled to be the union’s new president,” said Mulgrew after the vote.
Regents appoint new education commissionerJul 27, 2009
The New York State Board of Regents appointed David Steiner, head of Hunter College’s School of Education, as the new state education commissioner. Commissioner Steiner will replace Richard Mills, who retired last month after holding the post for 14 years. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, “With our schools facing budget cuts it is more important than ever to have another partner in Albany, which we feel we have in Commissioner Steiner.”
State Senate fails to act on school governance billJul 18, 2009
After weeks of delays, the Democratic majority in the New York State Senate adjourned on July 16 without passing a bill to continue mayoral control of New York City public schools. "Everyone should take a deep breath and urgently get back to pursuing the goal of enacting the new governance framework set forth in the Assembly bill and the additional pieces for parental training and input," said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
In effort to break Senate stalemate, Paterson names Ravitch lieutenant governorJul 09, 2009
On July 8, Governor David Paterson appointed former Metropolitan Transportation Authority chairman Richard Ravitch lieutenant governor in an effort to break the stalemate in the state Senate that has dragged on for more than a month. UFT President Randi Weingarten said the union strongly supports the appointment, and that "despite any legal challenges this appointment might face, Governor Paterson should be commended for considering every option to make the government work for the people of New York."
Senate stalemate allows governance law to sunsetJul 01, 2009
On June 30, when the State Senate failed to act on the school governance law that authorizes modified mayoral control, the law sunset, which meant the city was required to revert back to the old system where a Board of Education controlled the schools. On July 1, the mayor and the five borough presidents selected appointees who met as a reconstituted seven-member Board of Education. UFT President Randi Weingarten said that though the union did not want to revert to the old system, given the circumstances, "We commend the borough presidents and the mayor for following the law and maintaining stability for the sake of our children."
Weingarten announces resignation as UFT presidentJun 24, 2009
UFT President Randi Weingarten announced on June 24 that she will step down from her role as the union’s president effective July 31, in order to devote full time to her role as the president of the 1.4 million-member AFT. Weingarten made the announcement in a speech at the union’s June Delegate Assembly meeting. "I thank you for the opportunity of serving and representing you and for the opportunity to serve our kids," she said in her address. "You have been my finest teachers. I will always be only a phone call away. But this, our largest and greatest local in our largest and greatest city, will always be my home."
UFT and Green Dot announce tentative contract agreement for Bronx charterJun 23, 2009
UFT President Randi Weingarten, Green Dot Public Schools founder and Chairman Steve Barr, and Green Dot New York Charter School Chairman Jeffrey T. Leeds announced on June 23 a tentative three-year contract agreement for the Green Dot New York Charter School in the Bronx. The agreement was ratified by an overwhelming majority. “This agreement is based on a very basic premise: teacher professionalism is the surest path to sustained student achievement," said Weingarten.
School administrators criticize new agreementJun 23, 2009
The Council of School Supervisors and Administrators issued a statement on June 23 criticizing the new agreement between the UFT and the DOE, saying it adversely affects professional development. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, "This agreement was born out of a need to create savings for the city, and it was the chancellor’s preference that students and teachers return on the same day."
UFT opposes Tier VJun 05, 2009
On June 5, the governor and the two largest state unions, CSEA and PEF, announced an agreement to avert over 8,000 layoffs. As part of that agreement CSEA and PEF have agreed to support legislation that would create a new Tier V pension for their newly hired members. The municipal unions of New York City (the MLC), including the UFT, and our state union NYSUT, are firmly opposed to a Tier V for our members. New York City’s municipal unions have already taken steps to address the city’s budgetary issues. Just this week, the MLC concluded an agreement with the mayor to save the City $200 million this year, $400 million over two years and an additional $150 million in the following years. The MLC sent a letter to the governor and legislative leaders to explain why the municipal unions of NYC oppose the inclusion of their members in any proposed legislation. The UFT will strongly advocate our position as the legislative process unfolds.
Parents, students, advocates and educators push for budget restorationsJun 04, 2009
With the New York City school system facing $400 million in cuts in the proposed city budget, education advocates held a news conference on the steps of City Hall on June 4 to push for restorations of the funding that goes to schools and students. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, "We know that times are tough, and that everyone needs to share in making sacrifices, but cuts of this magnitude will have a devastating effect on the progress we have made at a time when kids need school the most... We can’t afford to go backward and deny our children a first-class education."
UFT awards $1 million in scholarships to 227 outstanding high school studentsJun 03, 2009
Two hundred and twenty-seven New York City public high school seniors who have excelled academically will receive four-year college scholarships when the UFT awards $1 million worth of grants at the union’s 40th Annual Albert Shanker Scholarship Awards Banquet on June 4. The students – many of whom are immigrants or have overcome daunting obstacles in their personal lives while successfully pursuing their studies – will be recognized for their achievements at the banquet at Stuyvesant High School at 345 Chambers Street and West Side Highway in Lower Manhattan.
Municipal workers and NYC reach health benefits dealJun 02, 2009
The Municipal Labor Committee and the City of New York reached a tentative agreement on employee health plans on June 2 that should result in $200 million in savings and forestall most layoffs of city workers until at least September.
City students show improvement on state math testJun 01, 2009
On June 1 the New York State Education Department announced that New York City elementary and middle school students made considerable improvements at all grade levels on the state’s math test. A total of 81.8 percent of New York City students in grades 3 to 8 are meeting or exceeding math standards. "The across-the-board improvements in math testing announced today are something for all of us to celebrate,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten. The scores “are a testament to our highly qualified teachers and the hard work going on every day in our classrooms.”
Brooklyn principal arrested for allegedly assaulting teacherMay 21, 2009
On May 21, the principal at PS 20 in Brooklyn was arrested by police from the 88th Precinct on assault charges for allegedly attacking chapter leader Robert Segerra in the principal’s office. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, "Principals have to be held accountable to a code of conduct in schools just like teachers and students are." If the allegations are true, she continued, "he should be disciplined just as sternly as any teacher would be."
Klein releases school budgetsMay 19, 2009
On May 19, New York City Schools Chancellor Joel Klein released school budgets reflecting an average cut of roughly 5%. Citywide, the cuts total $405 million. Klein noted that city tax revenues are down, but added that federal economic stimulus funds are making the city’s situation more bearable and are helping to avert teacher layoffs. UFT President Randi Weingarten said that while the union will continue to seek budget restorations from the City Council, “we are still pleased to see that the mayor and the Department of Education have gone a long way to protect the classroom and maintain services for students in these difficult times.”
Flu-like illness prompts school closures in QueensMay 14, 2009
The city Department of Education announced on May 14 that three Queens schools — IS 5, IS 238 and PS 5 — will be closed for a week due to large numbers of students being absent or sent home because of flu-like illness. UFT President Randi Weingarten said the union has been working closely with city agencies on the matter, and that "we will continue to monitor the situation and we hope that everyone affected will make a quick recovery."
City agrees to long-overdue raise for child care providersMay 14, 2009
The city Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) announced on May 13 that after more than a year and a half of refusing to comply with federal regulations and state mandates, the city has agreed to pay the current market rate to New York City’s 28,000 home day care providers represented by the UFT. "The higher rate and retroactive payments will go a long way to help them continue providing care for more than 85,000 children from low-income families," said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
UFT TV ad cites educators' advocacy efforts to help children succeedMay 11, 2009
On May 11, the UFT began airing a television commercial highlighting some of the ongoing work that the union does on a routine basis to help children strive for academic success. “Given all the news about the tough economy and the hard times the city, state and nation could face in the months ahead, we want to reassure parents in particular and the public in general that the UFT will continue our tradition of being a fierce advocate for children in public schools,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
Weingarten proposes innovative ACES network as model for improving struggling schoolsMay 11, 2009
UFT President Randi Weingarten on May 9 invited Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Chancellor Joel Klein to join with the union in applying for federal stimulus funds to develop a network of schools run by the chancellor that would serve as a national model for turning around failing schools by combining best practices in instruction and labor-management relations with the health and human services that children and their families need to ensure school success. “I am calling on the mayor and the chancellor to join with us in this broader, bolder mission we share,” Weingarten said.
City students show progress on state English testMay 07, 2009
On May 7 the New York State Education Department released student scores on the English Language Arts exam showing that New York City elementary and middle school students made substantial progress this year, outpacing gains in the rest of the state at every grade level. UFT President Randi Weingarten said the scores reflect "the high quality of our teaching force," and also show that "Campaign for Fiscal Equity funding and other investments in teaching and learning are really paying off."
DOE implements teacher hiring freezeMay 06, 2009
On May 6, the city Department of Education announced a teacher hiring freeze and directed principals to fill vacancies from current DOE staff via the open market or from the Absent Teacher Reserve (ATR) pool. "With shortfalls in school budgets, it is imperative that every dollar be spent wisely and to best effect," said UFT President Randi Weingarten. "This policy will avoid a waste of talent and money and get these skilled educators back into the classroom."
Albany lawmakers reach deal to rescue MTAMay 06, 2009
Governor Paterson and the state Legislature reached an agreement on the night of May 5 on a deal to rescue the financially strapped MTA. The plan will raise fares an average 10 percent and will avoid service cuts and layoffs while also addressing the agency’s funding needs for the first two years of its capital plan. UFT President Randi Weingarten said the union was pleased with the resolution and recognized the governor and legislative leaders for "bringing all stakeholders together to find a viable solution to a very daunting challenge during these tough economic times."
Mayor Bloomberg presents 2010 budget planMay 01, 2009
On May 1, Mayor Bloomberg presented his executive city budget for fiscal 2010 calling for $1.4 billion in combined savings and revenues from anticipated actions from the state as well as organized labor, including pension changes and health care cost reductions. No teacher layoffs are slated. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, "These are difficult times, and the Mayor has proposed a budget that, while we still have concerns about it, is thoughtful and responsible."
Weingarten, Gov. Paterson lead educators, students and parents at Harlem School Pride Parade and FairApr 27, 2009
Education was on parade on Saturday, April 25 with more than 50 public schools transforming Harlem as parents, educators and students took to the streets to showcase the neighborhood’s schools at the first ever Harlem School Pride Parade and Fair. “People in this community put so much value on education,” said UFT/AFT President Randi Weingarten. “This is a great opportunity to showcase the wonderful accomplishments of schools in the village of Harlem while stressing the importance of community.”
Bronx teacher barricades himself in classroomApr 24, 2009
On April 24, the UFT chapter leader at the New Millennium Business Academy in the Bronx barricaded himself inside a room and refused to leave until he had a chance to air certain school-related grievances with UFT President Randi Weingarten and the news media. He surrendered to police after several hours. Weingarten said, "We are grateful that the situation was resolved peacefully, and we thank the police and the city for working closely with us to defuse what was a potentially dangerous situation."
KIPP’s AMP Academy teachers are certified as union bargaining unitApr 23, 2009
The New York State Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) has voted to certify the teachers at KIPP’s AMP Academy as a recognized collective bargaining unit of the UFT. The decision was made during PERB’s monthly meeting in Albany, and clears the way for the teachers and their union to collectively bargain with KIPP. “This ruling by PERB was a huge step toward creating a voice for teachers in KIPP’s quest for school excellence,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
UFT launches “There is No Excuse” campaign to help ensure services for special ed studentsApr 06, 2009
The UFT on April 6 launched its “There is No Excuse” campaign in schools across the city to help educators resolve issues relating to special education services. The initiative is designed to give more support and resources to educators, allowing them to easily report problems they are experiencing with providing mandated services to students in their schools. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, “We hope through this program we can identify and address these problems and compliance violations, and ensure that students can achieve. We call it our ‘There is No Excuse’ campaign because ultimately, there is no excuse for why these students aren’t getting services that are mandated by law.”
Gunman kills 13 in BinghamtonApr 03, 2009
A gunman opened fire and killed at least 12 people at an immigration services center in the American Civic Association building in downtown Binghamton, NY, on Friday, April 3. In a joint statement, AFT President Randi Weingarten and NYSUT President Richard Iannuzzi expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life, and said that “members of the AFT and NYSUT stand ready to provide support to the city of Binghamton, its university and community colleges, and its schools from skilled social workers, psychologists, guidance counselors, nurses and other public employees."
State legislature to vote on $131.8 billion budgetMar 31, 2009
Gov. David Paterson and legislative leaders announced on March 29 a $131.8 billion budget that averts the most serious cuts to education and includes a tax increase on the state's top earners. Voting was scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. on March 31. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, “The kids in New York City could have suffered terribly, but thanks to the efforts of many, we have averted the most serious anticipated damage. We will see cuts to programs, but core services should be salvaged and layoffs should be averted.”
DOE investigates principal for alleged "hate chants"Mar 26, 2009
On March 26, the New York Post reported that the principal of PS 24 in the Bronx is being investigated by city Department of Education officials for allegedly leading school staff in Buddhist-like chants against eight teachers on a “hate list.” They are also looking into allegations that the principal distributed cards to members of the school community inviting them to join his spiritual circle. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, "Public schools are no place for proselytizing of any sort.... If the allegations are proven to be true, then the principal should be disciplined appropriately for creating an atmosphere of tension, intimidation and fear of retaliation among the staff."
Municipal labor efforts identify health care cost savingsMar 26, 2009
The Municipal Labor Committee announced that the city’s public sector unions have identified $200 million in health care savings in the city’s budget. The announcement, in a statement by MLC Chairperson Harry Nespoli and MLC Co-Chair Randi Weingarten, followed the city asking the MLC for health care savings in that amount. “Labor has always worked responsibly with the city in times of crisis,” the union leaders said.
Parents sue DOE for violating state law by closing schoolsMar 24, 2009
Public school parents, guardians and community leaders filed suit against the city Department of Education on March 24 for violating state education law by making zoning changes that affect neighborhood schools without approval from Community Education Councils. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, "The law requires community approval before a neighborhood school zone can be eliminated.... Parents should have a voice when it comes to their children’s education, and by eliminating community schools without public hearings the DOE is taking away that voice."
44 city schools are no longer “In Need of Improvement”Mar 18, 2009
On March 17, the New York State Education Department identified a total of 543 elementary, middle and high schools and 53 districts as “In Need of Improvement” under the federal No Child Left Behind Act. Thirty-two of the newly identified Schools In Need of Improvement (SINI) and 44 of the removed schools were in New York City. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, "We are pleased to see so many New York City public schools coming off the state list of Schools In Need of Improvement (SINI), and we must congratulate the hard-working teachers who have shown that when schools are given the opportunity to turn around, they can."
City teachers, parents, education advocates lobby in AlbanyMar 17, 2009
A caravan of 1,500 New York City teachers, parents, students and education advocates traveled to Albany on March 17 to urge state legislators to protect public school classrooms from service erosions by adopting a progressive income tax and spending the federal stimulus package funding wisely. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, "While we understand these are difficult times, we have to protect our children's futures and our economic health, which is why we are proposing fair fiscal alternatives."
Obama delivers major speech on educationMar 10, 2009
President Obama outlined his plans for education reform on March 10 in his first major address on the issue since taking office. Speaking before the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in Washington, Obama said, “It is time to give all Americans a complete and competitive education from the cradle up through a career.” UFT President Randi Weingarten responded by saying the union “has actively been on the forefront of many of the initiatives proposed by the president…. We agree with the president that education reform should be done with teachers, not to them.”
Thousands of New Yorks rally at City Hall demonstration for Fair Share Tax ReformMar 05, 2009
Thousands of New Yorkers from neighborhoods across the city rallied at City Hall on March 5 to push for fair fiscal alternatives to the devastating budget cuts being considered in Albany and New York City. In a show of solidarity, the broad coalition of labor unions, community groups and families held a “Rally for New York” to protest the proposed state and city budget cuts to public services, education, health care and other programs that would have a devastating impact on the children, families and economy of New York.
State DOE removes 13 city schools from failing listMar 03, 2009
On March 2, the New York State Education Department announced that 13 New York City schools were removed from the Schools Under Registration Review (SURR) list, leaving a total of 43 SURR schools statewide with 20 in the city. The department added five schools to the list, including two city schools created to replace large high schools. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, “It is encouraging to see so many of our schools improving as a result of the effort and commitment of parents, students and educators working together…. And if the city uses the federal stimulus money coming to city schools wisely, it can make sure that schools at risk of going on the list…get what they need to excel.”
Comptroller joins child care providers demanding overdue raisesFeb 25, 2009
New York City Comptroller William C. Thompson Jr. joined UFT President Randi Weingarten and dozens of New York City’s 28,000 home-based child care providers on the steps of City Hall on Feb. 25 to protest the city’s continued refusal to pay them overdue and state-mandated raises while planning to spend $45 million to retrain unemployed investment bankers, traders and other laid-off Wall Street workers. “The city figured out a way to use stimulus money to help Wall Street, but it isn’t willing to do the same for child care providers,” said Weingarten.
UFT launches radio ad campaignFeb 24, 2009
The UFT is running a new radio ad urging the public to fight proposed city and state education budget cuts by attending the rally at City Hall on March 5 to protect classrooms and other core social services during the current economic downturn. It will run Feb. 24 through March 4.
Class sizes increased, despite millions in fundsFeb 17, 2009
The 2008-2009 Class Size Report shows that despite targeting funding for class size reduction, class sizes rose in first, second and third grade, among others. “It is disheartening and inexcusable for class sizes in New York City schools to rise at all in light of the millions of dollars that the state has targeted to address this particular problem,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten. Referring to the 14-year old Campaign for Fiscal Equity court case, she added, “It’s time for the city to quit making excuses and comply with the law.”
UFT goes to PERB for KIPP AMP teachersFeb 13, 2009
The UFT petitioned the New York State Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) on Feb. 13 to formally recognize the teaching staff at the KIPP AMP Academy in Brooklyn as a collective bargaining unit. The move comes after administrators at KIPP failed to recognize the teachers within the state’s 30-day deadline and in the midst of a campaign by school administrators to threaten and intimidate teachers and parents. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, “This is a real test about whether KIPP respects the people who have made their schools great.”
With stimulus bill near, UFT looks to next phase of budget fightFeb 13, 2009
With the federal stimulus package now near reality, the union is looking ahead to the next stage in the budget fight. UFT President Randi Weingarten said that the stimulus "will be a tremendous help to our public schools and represents the first step in insulating our kids from these tough economic times." However, she continued, "the budget crisis that threatens our schools is still far from over."
Weingarten testifies at school governance hearingFeb 06, 2009
On Feb. 6, UFT President Randi Weingarten testified at a hearing on school governance held by the State Assembly Education Committee. "Our schools are public institutions and they belong to the public," she said. "They serve students, their families and the larger community; and ultimately the very future of New York City depends on their success."
Parents, teachers protest DOE plans to close Brooklyn schoolFeb 06, 2009
Dozens of parents, students, educators and concerned community residents demonstrated outside PS/IS 72 in Brooklyn on Feb. 6 to protest city Department of Education plans to close the school, which serves a large population of students with special needs. “Closing this school would be devastating,” PTA president and parent Evelyn Pugh told the group. “The school is like a community. It would be doing a great disservice to students, parents, teachers and the community to lose this school.”
UFT Delegate Assembly approves union's School Governance Task Force reportFeb 04, 2009
The Delegate Assembly of the UFT on Feb. 4 voted overwhelmingly to approve a report by the union’s School Governance Task Force that recommends reauthorizing the current school governance law with a series of modifications. “The debate tonight was vigorous, as it should be when you are wrestling with important issues,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten. “Discussion and debate are healthy and democratic, but unfortunately they are a large part what has been missing from the current governance model.”
UFT slams mayor’s proposal to lay off educators en masseJan 30, 2009
UFT President Randi Weingarten warned that the mayor’s proposal to lay off more than 15,000 public school educators if the city does not get the state and federal aid it seeks would hurt a generation of students and cripple the school system, to say nothing about the havoc it would wreak on the lives of the dedicated teachers the system has asked to come and make careers here. “Every time we lay off a teacher, it is a direct service cut to children,” she said.
Klein warns of massive layoffs without federal stimulus fundsJan 28, 2009
New York City Schools Chancellor Joel Klein said in testimony before a legislative committee in Albany on Jan. 28 that without assistance from a federal economic stimulus package, the city would be forced to lay off as many as 15,000 public school educators. UFT President Randi Weingarten called the prospect "devastating" and said, "This is why everyone who cares about public education should urge their elected representatives in Washington, Albany and City Hall to fight first for the federal economic stimulus and recovery program and then for a state and city budget that would avert such layoffs."
City officials, parents, educators call for federal stimulus funds to build more schoolsJan 28, 2009
Amid reports that New York City could receive at least $3.4 billion in federal aid as part of an economic stimulus bill being considered by Congress, key city and state elected officials joined parents, representatives of the city teachers’ union and other education advocates on Jan. 28 to call for more of it to be used to build new schools and add classroom seats to address student population growth and lower class size. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, “There is a win-win here of creating jobs and creating classrooms by targeting funds for that purpose, and we can’t lose this opportunity.”
UFT launches TV ad campaign calling for investment in schoolsJan 23, 2009
Starting Jan. 23, the UFT began airing a television commercial highlighting the importance of investing in public schools, especially in tough economic times. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, “Children don’t get a second chance to get a good education, which is why we need to make sure our schools get the resources they need right now.”
Mayor Bloomberg announces plans to help city through recessionJan 15, 2009
In his annual State of the City address on Jan. 15, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, laying out an agenda he hopes will lessen the effects of the recession, said that good public schools are crucial to protecting the quality of life in New York City. His education plans include building 50 more schools, creating a 311 call-in line for parents, and increasing pre-K enrollment. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, “Mayor Bloomberg’s ambitious agenda recognizes the need for all New Yorkers to work together to keep the city moving forward in these tough economic times.”
Teachers at KIPP’s AMP Academy Charter School organize to join the UFTJan 13, 2009
Teachers at the KIPP AMP Academy Charter School in Brooklyn on Jan. 13 informed the school’s administration that they want the UFT to represent them. “KIPP teachers want what all good teachers want — the respect, the support and the tools necessary to do the best possible job of educating their students,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten. “Organizing into a union of educational professionals will give them the collective voice and support to make that happen.”
Gov. Paterson calls for more effective education spending in State of the State addressJan 07, 2009
Governor Paterson said in his State of the State address on Jan. 7 that the state is in a perilous situation and that all New Yorkers must be prepared for shared sacrifices in order to meet the historic challenges we now face. He cautioned that the state would not be able to spend more on education and must therefore spend education dollars more effectively. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, “What's critical is that we do all that we can to protect kids who won't get a second chance. Education is a cornerstone of our state's economic future.”
State backs parents in appeal of city rule changes on school leadership teamsJan 06, 2009
The New York City Department of Education improperly changed the rules governing parent participation on school leadership teams to give principals final decision-making authority on comprehensive education plans, according to a recent ruling by State Education Department. “This is a great victory for parents and educators,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
Child care providers rally as City Council hears testimony on unpaid wagesDec 17, 2008
Dozens of home-based child care providers rallied on the steps of City Hall on Dec. 17 to press for state-mandated pay raises as the City Council convened a hearing to determine why the city’s Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) has refused to pay the higher wages owed to the city’s 28,000 providers since October of 2007. “The city cannot continue to flout the law and treat providers this way,” UFT President Randi Weingarten said to a cheering crowd.
Gov. Paterson proposes $2.5 billion cut to schools to close massive deficitDec 16, 2008
Governor David Paterson announced on Dec. 16 his executive budget, laying out a series of cutbacks, taxes and fees he hopes will help close the state’s massive $15.4 billion deficit. Education is particularly hard hit, with $2.5 billion in possible cuts statewide. UFT President Randi Weingarten said that while the union understands the situation is daunting, "New York State cannot move backward by making devastating cuts to schools that will affect the classroom. Kids did not create this crisis, and they should not bear the burden of it."
City agrees to pay child care providers overdue wagesDec 11, 2008
Faced with the threat of a massive protest by the United Federation of Teachers outside its headquarters in Lower Manhattan on Dec. 12, the New York City Administration for Children’s Services released $200,000 to pay 98 home-based child care providers who had not been paid since Nov. 9. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, "While I am grateful that [ACS Commissioner John] Mattingly came through today, expediting checks to East New York Network, in general the way the ACS has treated home day care providers in New York City is outrageous, and it must stop."
UFT wins preliminary injunction granting reprieve to Teaching FellowsDec 09, 2008
The UFT was granted a preliminary injunction in court on Dec. 9 preventing the Department of Education from firing Teaching Fellows hired over the summer who did not secure full-time school assignments by Dec. 5. “The DOE is always talking about the need to recruit quality teachers, but what message are they sending when they treat new educators like this?” UFT President Randi Weingarten said.
Weingarten discourages rumors about her and U.S. Senate seatDec 09, 2008
Recent news stories have mentioned AFT/UFT President Randi Weingarten in connection with the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Hillary Rodham Clinton. Weingarten, noting her dual responsibilities as president of the UFT and AFT, responded, “We are doing critically important work, and that is what I intend to continue doing.”
Three schools set to closeDec 05, 2008
News outlets on Dec. 4 reported that three public schools are slated for closing – JHS 44 in Manhattan, PS 90 in the Bronx and PS 225 in Queens. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, "Closing schools is always heart-wrenching, and the instability it causes can be devastating regardless of the need to make instructional changes in a school... We have to ensure that any actions taken will benefit children in the long run."
Home child care providers rally for higher wagesNov 20, 2008
More than a thousand of New York City’s 28,000 home-based child care providers, joined by over a dozen city and state elected officials and hundreds of educators, rallied at the historic Alhambra Ballroom in Harlem on Nov. 20 to press the city to end its delays and immediately start paying the higher wage rate for providers that the state approved in October of last year. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, “This is a matter of basic fairness. Providers are our children’s first teachers, they work hard to earn every cent they get and they deserve much, much more. At the very least, the city should do the right thing and pay providers what the state says they deserve.”
UFT and DOE reach agreement on ATRsNov 19, 2008
UFT President Randi Weingarten and Schools Chancellor Joel I. Klein on Nov. 18 finalized an agreement that should result in many more excessed educators being placed in permanent assignments. The agreement, which was approved unanimously by the UFT Executive Board on Nov. 18, creates substantial financial incentives for schools to hire educators in the Absent Teacher Reserve pool, replacing what were heavy budgetary disincentives. “This is a terrific agreement,” said Weingarten. “By eliminating the financial obstacles, we should see more ATRs being permanently placed, which will be good for children and save the school district money.”
Educators at 33 high schools share in schoolwide bonusesNov 17, 2008
The Department of Education announced on Nov. 14 that 2,200 educators at 33 high schools in the pilot schoolwide bonus program will share in bonuses totaling $8.3 million for helping their students meet performance goals. Eighty-five percent of the high schools that participated in the program received bonuses. "The schoolwide bonus program is all about promoting collaboration among educators to benefit students, and the results we’re seeing show that it clearly is working," said UFT President Randi Weingarten. "The teamwork among educators and principals has every school staff member working hand-in-hand to boost academic achievement."
Report finds DOE accountability initiatives cost $350 millionNov 13, 2008
An Independent Budget Office report released on Nov. 13 found the Department of Education’s accountability initiatives, including student assessment, have cost upwards of $352 million. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, "The findings in this report are important to the larger debate over reining in spending during these difficult economic times, and they should be taken very seriously. These findings also further solidify our belief that more transparency and checks and balances are needed at the Department of Education."
Most high schools show improvement in latest School Progress ReportsNov 13, 2008
The Department of Education on Nov. 12 released School Progress Report scores for the city’s public high schools. More than 80% of schools received an A or B under the controversial grading system, which is largely based on Regents exam scores, graduation rates and credit accumulation. UFT President Randi Weingarten said that dialogue between the union and the DOE resulted in more accurate reports this year, but that other modifications are still needed. "We need a balance of the many other factors that constitute a successful school," she said.
Mayor promises to protect classrooms in this round of budget cutsNov 05, 2008
Mayor Bloomberg on Nov. 5 announced a series of money-saving measures to address the city’s fiscal challenges. He said the Department of Education's budget will be reduced $181 million this year, resulting in the elimination of 475 positions of which 219 would be layoffs. No UFT members will be laid off. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, "We are encouraged that cuts are being made to the central bureaucracy, which is a better alternative than cutting programs and services that kids depend on."
City Council votes to extend term limitsOct 23, 2008
The New York City Council voted, 29 to 22, on Oct. 23 to extend term limits, a result that allows Mayor Bloomberg to run for a third term next year. While noting that the UFT has historically opposed term limits but believed that a public referendum was the most appropriate way to change the law, UFT President Randi Weingarten said, "It’s time to move forward and tackle the major challenges we face, namely the economic crisis and its potentially devastating impact on the classroom."
Art Institute faculty rallies against hiring of replacementsOct 23, 2008
With a contract deadline looming, dozens of faculty members rallied outside the Art Institute of New York City on Oct. 23 to enlist public support as school administrators interviewed applicants for replacement faculty. “We want to make sure that the public knows that the institute’s call for adjunct faculty is really an attempt to hire replacement workers, which is a polite way of saying scabs,” said UFT Vice President Michael Mulgrew.
UFT defends high school librarian fined for book displayOct 22, 2008
The New York Times reported in its Oct. 22 Web edition that the city Conflicts of Interest Board had fined Brooklyn Technical High School librarian Robert Grandt $500 for setting up a display in the school library featuring an illustrated version of Shakespeare’s Macbeth that was illustrated by his adult daughter. UFT President Randi Weingarten, in a letter of protest to the board, wrote, "This case amounts to nothing more than a father showing pride in his daughter’s educational accomplishment and sharing his joy with colleagues and students in his school community."
Report highlights chronic student absenceOct 21, 2008
The New School’s Center for New York City Affairs released a report on Oct. 21 showing that 90,000 city elementary school students – about 20% – missed at least a month of classes during the last school year while 40% of high school students and 24% of middle school students were absent for at least a month as well. UFT President Randi Weingarten, who called for a summit to tackle the issue, said the center "has done an immense public service in identifying a crisis of chronic student absence in many of New York City’s public schools."
UFT and its allies launch new budget coalition to defend safety netOct 10, 2008
Almost 75 groups – including the UFT – joined together as the “One New York: Fighting for Fairness” coalition and kicked off a campaign on Oct. 10 to urge Mayor Bloomberg and the City Council to protect poor and middle-class New Yorkers from budget cuts to vital services and to close the budget gap in part through raising revenue. “New Yorkers are beginning to struggle in ways not seen in generations, and we are committed to protecting the safety net services people depend on, particularly our most vulnerable citizens,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten. “Children and schools are a vital, but not exclusive, part of that equation.”
UFT files lawsuit challenging DOE ban on campaign buttonsOct 10, 2008
With only weeks to go before the Nov. 4 elections, the UFT on Oct. 10 filed a federal court lawsuit claiming that a New York City Department of Education policy banning educators from wearing campaign pins in schools violates their constitutional rights to free speech and political expression.
DOE bars wearing political buttons in schoolOct 02, 2008
In this week’s Principals' Weekly, the Department of Education instructed principals that school staff are not allowed to wear buttons or apparel in support of a political candidate while in school or during school activities. UFT President Randi Weingarten wrote to Chancellor Klein asking him to reconsider his position. She said, "For as long as I have been at the UFT teachers have been allowed to express their opinions as citizens, political and otherwise, on their lapels. That’s because teachers know how to balance their roles as educators and their roles as citizens to freely express themselves."
UFT urges DOE to save city funds by helping ATRs find permanent postsSep 25, 2008
The UFT on Sept. 25 reiterated its call for the city Department of Education to help hundreds of seasoned and solid educators do what they are paid to do: teach kids on a full-time basis rather than fill day-to-day vacancies in schools.
Price tag of ATRs back in newsSep 22, 2008
The New Teacher Project on Sept. 22 issued a report highlighting the $74 million that the city may have to spend on teachers — including 230 new hires — serving as Absent Teacher Reserves this school year. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, "The UFT remains committed to working out ways…that would place these valuable ATRs who have been displaced through no fault of their own… To date, the DOE has declined… And now TNTP has joined in the pile-on."
89 schools receive schoolwide bonusesSep 18, 2008
UFT President Randi Weingarten joined city officials on Sept. 18 to announce that 89 elementary and middle schools would receive bonuses under the schoolwide bonus program negotiated last year by the UFT and the DOE.
NYSUT Member Benefits Trust monitors financial situation of AIGSep 16, 2008
NYSUT Member Benefits Trust is closely monitoring the situation of the financially beleaguered American International Group (AIG), which is the provider of the voluntary term life insurance program and voluntary and group catastrophe major medical insurance plans endorsed by the Trust.
City gives more As, fewer Fs in school report cardsSep 16, 2008
Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Chancellor Joel Klein on Sept. 16 issued the 2008 Progress Reports on elementary, middle and K-8 schools. Fifty-eight percent of schools moved up by at least one letter grade or received an A for the second year in a row while 71% of schools that received Cs or Ds last year received Bs this year. "These results show that our hard-working teachers are succeeding in moving schools forward," said UFT President Randi Weingarten. "A closer look at the data shows that the schools that shifted the most are those where educators and administrators have collaborated and worked well together.”
State DOE finds city’s class-size reduction plan fell shortSep 16, 2008
In a Sept. 15 report on municipalities’ compliance with state Contracts for Excellence provisions, the state Department of Education found that the New York City DOE did not meet the citywide class size targets that it set for the 2007-08 school year and ordered the city to take specific corrective steps. “In order to effectively use this funding to reduce class size for the students most in need, the Department of Education should work with those schools that have the space to actually add classes and align its new capital plan to address the need for smaller class sizes,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
UFT and city reach parking agreementAug 27, 2008
The UFT reached an agreement with the city on Aug. 26 that preserves all on-street and off-street parking spots for schools. “Although I would rather the city not change the process right now, the agreement the UFT reached with the city continues the number of available spots and more closely aligns the number of placards with the number of spots,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten. “And it brings the decision on who gets the spot to the school level where it belongs and presents an opportunity for an ultimate increase in the number of spots.”
New early literacy curriculum to be tried at high-needs schoolsAug 25, 2008
On August 25, the New York City Department of Education announced the launch of the Core Knowledge Early Literacy Project, a three-year pilot program in reading instruction for about 1,000 students in 11 high-needs city public schools. UFT President Randi Weingarten said the focus of this new curriculum—teaching non-fiction content to provide young readers with background knowledge—"actually makes it come alive for students as opposed to having test prep guide educators' work."
Number of "persistently dangerous schools" drops in cityAug 21, 2008
The State Education Department released its list of persistently dangerous schools on August 20, and the New York City school system posted its first drop in three years with 15 schools removed from the list while another six were added. UFT President Randi Weingarten said that while "we must make sure every school listed this year gets the help it needs to turn around," a recent drop in school crime showed "what can be accomplished when all stakeholders in education collaborate on solutions."
Weingarten commends Albany for sparing schools from mid-year cutsAug 20, 2008
Governor David Paterson and the New York State Legislature recently agreed on a savings plan to cut $200 million from the current state budget without reducing funding for education. UFT President Randi Weingarten said lawmakers "kept their promises to children," and that "they understood that mid-year cuts would be devastating to classrooms."
Weingarten says charter schools can be innovative, but should not take space from regular schoolsAug 19, 2008
Mayor Bloomberg announced on August 19 that 18 new charter schools will open in New York City this fall, bringing the total number to 78 schools serving 24,000 students. UFT President Randi Weingarten, whose union has opened two charter schools, said charter schools can be "laboratories for educational innovation" but that they "should have their own space and be as transparent and open as regular public schools in order to ensure a level playing field."
Weingarten advocates tax on millionaires to stem state budget crisisAug 13, 2008
In the face of a looming budget deficit, Randi Weingarten put forth a proposal that, unlike Gov. Paterson's plan, would increase state income, rather than simply cut state programs .
UFT’s Weingarten, Mulgrew join city officials in celebrating city high school graduation-rate jumpAug 12, 2008
At their August 11 press conference at the Tweed Courthouse, Mayor Michael Bloomberg and schools Chancellor Joel Klein announced that New York City’s four-year high school graduation rate reached a four-year high of 55.8 percent in 2007.
Parents and teachers rally to ease overcrowding in Manhattan’s District 2Aug 07, 2008
About 200 parents, educators, community residents, UFT representatives and elected officials rallied outside a state-owned office building in Greenwich Village on Aug. 6 to urge the state to stop seeking commercial development proposals and consider instead converting the structure into a sorely needed middle school to help ease school overcrowding in the area.
UFT: Mayor ‘just wrong’ to portray union as obstacle to teacher qualityJul 17, 2008
In response to Mayor Bloomberg’s testimony before a congressional committee on July 17, UFT President Randi Weingarten expressed her appreciation for the mayor’s praise of the UFT’s willingness to negotiate a school-wide bonus plan, but she said the mayor was “just wrong about ‘inflexible union work rules’ keeping ineffective teachers in classrooms considering some of the most impressive student test scores we’ve had in years in New York City and the largest ever survey of its kind showing that 94 percent of parents are pleased with their children’s teachers.”
New AFT President Weingarten asks members to rededicate themselves to reforming the institutions where they workJul 15, 2008
In her first address as president of the more than 1.4 million-member American Federation of Teachers, UFT President Randi Weingarten said she will fight for a national reform agenda that protects and improves the institutions where AFT members work, while bettering the lives and prospects of those they serve — particularly those in need.
94% of parents satisfied with their child’s teacherJul 01, 2008
On July 1, the Department of Education released the results of the second annual Learning Environment Survey, which asks parents, educators and students in grades 6-12 to assess how well their schools are addressing their needs. The findings show that 94% of parents are satisfied or very satisfied with their children’s teachers, which improves upon the 90% approval rate teachers received from parents in the previous survey. “Such a high approval rate reinforces our long-held belief that the most important aspect of education and student success is the interaction between teachers and students in the classroom,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
Final city budget contains no classroom cutsJun 30, 2008
After months of intense lobbying by the Keep the Promises Coalition, the New York City Council and the Bloomberg administration agreed on June 26 on a $59.1 billion city budget that protects public schools from budget cuts that had been sought by the mayor and Chancellor Joel Klein because of concerns about a downturn in the economy. “Chris Quinn and the entire City Council deserve a big thank you from all New Yorkers for championing children and working so hard with the Mayor to negotiate an agreement that protects all of our public schools from budget cuts,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
AFT executive council recommends endorsement of Barack ObamaJun 24, 2008
Citing his commitment to take on the key challenges facing AFT members and our nation as a whole, the 41-member executive council of the American Federation of Teachers voted unanimously on June 23 to approve a motion recommending that delegates to the 2008 AFT national convention endorse the candidacy of Illinois Sen. Barack Obama for president of the United States. At its June Delegate Assembly, the UFT passed a resolution asking the AFT to explore an Obama endorsement at the AFT convention.
NYC students make substantial gains on 2008 ELA and math testsJun 23, 2008
City math scores were up 9 points and English Language Arts rose nearly 7 points on the 2008 state tests announced on June 23. For the first time, almost 75 percent of city students meet the state math standards, while 57.6 percent of students meet state standards in English. “This is a day to celebrate,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten, who appeared with Mayor Bloomberg at the press conference to announce the results. “These test scores show that teachers are finding ways to help make a difference every day for our one million students.”
UFT members to evaluate Schools Chancellor Joel KleinJun 10, 2008
Using the New York City Department of Education’s Learning Environment survey as a model, the UFT is asking its 100,000 public school educators to evaluate the performance of the chancellor and the Department of Education. The survey will be the culmination of a concerted effort by the UFT this year to address the issue of accountability in the city public school system, including a new school accountability method proposed by UFT President Randi Weingarten earlier this year.
UFT reaches out to DOE on heat guidelinesJun 10, 2008
The extreme heat during the school day on June 9 prompted the union to reach out to the Department of Education regarding its protocols.
UFT files PESH complaint asking state to cite NYC DOE for heat hazards in schoolsJun 10, 2008
On June 10, a day after the UFT asked the Department of Education to establish reasonable procedures during a heat wave, the union filed a complaint with the state Public Employee Safety and Health Bureau asking the agency to cite the DOE for violating state health laws by failing to protect students and staff in city public schools during the current heat wave.
UFT members to evaluate Schools Chancellor Joel KleinJun 10, 2008
Using the New York City Department of Education’s Learning Environment survey as a model, the UFT is asking its 100,000 public school educators to evaluate the performance of the chancellor and the Department of Education. The survey will be the culmination of a concerted effort by the UFT this year to address the issue of accountability in the city public school system, including a new school accountability method proposed by UFT President Randi Weingarten earlier this year.
AFT’s response to Obama victoryJun 04, 2008
On June 4, ending a hard-fought and history-making battle against Senator Hillary Clinton, Senator Barack Obama sealed the Democratic presidential nomination after a final flurry of superdelegate endorsements and returns from the final primaries in Montana and South Dakota. AFT President Edward McElroy, whose union endorsed Clinton in the primary, congratulated Obama. “He ran an effective, well-organized campaign to win a competitive primary race,” McElroy said.
UFT awards $1 million in scholarships to 214 studentsJun 03, 2008
Two hundred and fourteen New York City public high school seniors – many of whom are immigrants or have overcome daunting obstacles in their personal lives while successfully pursuing their studies – received four-year college scholarships from the UFT at the union’s 39th Annual Albert Shanker Scholarship Awards Banquet on June 3.
Cynthia Nixon joins coalition fight against city budget cuts to schoolsJun 03, 2008
Emmy and Tony Award winning actress and public school parent Cynthia Nixon joined parents, teachers and principals representing more than 50 schools rallying on June 2 outside Stuyvesant High School to urge the City Council to reject $450 million in school budget cuts proposed by the city. The rally’s theme was “One City, One Voice.”
Cynthia Nixon joins coalition fight against city budget cuts to schoolsJun 03, 2008
Emmy and Tony Award winning actress and public school parent Cynthia Nixon joined parents, teachers and principals representing more than 50 schools rallying on June 2 outside Stuyvesant High School to urge the City Council to reject $450 million in school budget cuts proposed by the city. The rally’s theme was “One City, One Voice.”
Klein tells 74 schools to expect 5% budget cutMay 21, 2008
Blaming the state’s funding formula for the city’s education budget problems, Chancellor Klein said 74 schools, including some of the city's top-performing high schools, will have their budgets for the next school year cut by more than five percent. UFT President Randi Weingarten said, “It is the height of hubris for the city to blame its education budget problems on the state, which was the only government entity that stepped up for New York City’s schoolchildren.”
Quinn pledges to fight school budget cuts, calls for more Council oversight of DOEMay 20, 2008
In a May 20 speech, New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn pledged to fight the city’s proposed $450 million in education budget cuts targeting city public schools. “We are grateful that Speaker Chris Quinn has joined the chorus of people opposing the city’s proposed $450 million in education budget cuts,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten. Of Quinn’s call for more City Council oversight of the Department of Education, Weingarten gave her general support while noting that overseeing public education is a responsibility of the state government.
Number of “rapidly improving” schools in city doublesMay 20, 2008
The state on May 15 identified 161 “rapidly improving” city schools, almost twice as many as the year before. “These results show that we are on the right path,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten. “We can only hope that this academic progress will not be endangered by the $450 million in education budget cuts that Mayor Bloomberg and the city Department of Education have proposed for our schools.”
Weingarten embraces creation of permanent coalition as advocacy voice for kidsMay 10, 2008
Speaking at the UFT’s Annual Spring Conference on May 10, UFT President Randi Weingarten said the work of the Keep the Promises coalition, formed earlier this year to fight cuts to the education budget, should be transformed into a permanent coalition to be an independent advocacy voice to champion what children need.
UFT faults Klein for creating job barriers for ATRsApr 29, 2008
UFT President Randi Weingarten denounced a report issued by the New Teacher Project, a DOE contractor, which blames educators serving in the Absent Teacher Reserve for being unable to find new permanent teaching positions and recommends firing them after one year. “The most repulsive part of this report is that the DOE is abdicating its responsibility to help the teachers who, through no fault of their own, have lost their positions,” she said. “It’s the quintessential blame-the-victim strategy.”
DOE flouts state class-size reduction mandatesApr 28, 2008
Despite receiving $153 million in new state funds meant to lower class sizes, the DOE has failed to implement a comprehensive class size reduction plan to meet state goals. Half of the elementary and middle schools receiving the funds did not lower class size; in fact, class sizes increased at a third of those city schools, according to a report issued on April 28 by the UFT.
UFT responds to Bell verdictApr 25, 2008
Three police detectives were acquitted on all charges on April 25 in the November 2006 death of Sean Bell. “The bottom line is we need to work together and respect one another enough so that people, regardless of their race, feel safe and secure and respected on the streets of New York City,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten, who said her heart went out to the Bell family.
City’s teaching force grows more “highly qualified”Apr 15, 2008
The New York State Board of Regents released figures on April 14 showing that New York City continued to improve with more highly qualified teachers in every subject. Nearly 91 percent of core classes in city public schools in 2006-07 were taught by highly qualified teachers compared to 79 percent in 2004-05. UFT President Randi Weingarten said the UFT was “pleased but not surprised” by the increase. “We have long said that New York City needed to raise teacher salaries to attract and keep good educators, and now that teacher salaries here have risen by 43 percent we are doing just that,” she said.
Weingarten on her decisionApr 11, 2008
UFT President Randi Weingarten announced her candidacy for president of the national union during the Representative Assembly of NYSUT, the UFT’s state affiliate, on April 11. Citing the tremendous challenges facing public education and the labor movement nationally, she said, “I feel an urgency — indeed, a duty — to act.” If she is elected in July, she said that she will continue in her present position in New York City, just as her predecessors, Al Shanker and Sandy Feldman, did before her.
State keeps its funding promises and reaches fair compromise on tenure criteriaApr 09, 2008
In the state budget agreement reached on April 8, the governor and the state Legislature kept their prior commitment to increased operating aid for New York City public schools, restored building aid and preserved a fair tenure process by barring the use of student test scores as the basis for granting or denying tenure. On the new tenure language, UFT President Randi Weingarten said, “No one is afraid of accountability but the measures have to be fair and accurate. Indeed, with the exception of the chancellor and the mayor, everyone in the state – including the School Boards Association – supports the compromise crafted by the Legislature and the Governor.”
List of city schools “in need of improvement” grows slightly smallerApr 09, 2008
On April 8 the state issued its list of Schools In Need of Improvement (SINI), which showed that 20 New York City public high schools were removed from the list while 15 were added to it. UFT President Randi Weingarten said that “we’re making gains in our effort to better educate students [but] clearly much more work needs to be done.”
UFT adopts ‘better safe than sorry’ approach on PCBs in caulkApr 07, 2008
Following a April 7 Daily News front-page article about PCBs in window caulk, the UFT urged city, state and federal agencies to develop a coordinated response in implementing a uniform PCB standard that everyone follows. In the meantime, the union called on the DOE to follow asbestos abatement protocols in addressing the PCB issue. “While we know there are few studies regarding long-term exposure to PCBs, the UFT prefers to take a ‘better safe than sorry’ approach to such matters when dealing with kids and staff,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
New York City 8th-graders lag in national writing testApr 04, 2008
Fewer New York City 8th-graders wrote only at the basic level of proficiency and more of them scored below that level than did students across the country, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). In a criticism of the Department of Education’s current test-prep strategy, UFT President Randi Weingarten said the findings "prove that a strong curriculum in schools is a better path to higher academic performance than endless testing.”
South Bronx site chosen for Green Dot charter schoolApr 04, 2008
Green Dot will open a charter high school this fall that will share space with South Bronx intermediate school. The new school is the outgrowth of a partnership between Green Dot and the UFT. The location, said UFT President Randi Weingarten, seemed to provide the right mix of space and opportunity to address a critical need in the community.”
UFT calls for comprehensive solution to school violenceMar 28, 2008
After a week in which the NYPD locked down schools twice and a student was critically stabbed in a hallway of a school despite scanners to keep out weapons, UFT President Randi Weingarten called on “all stakeholders to take proactive steps and work together immediately to address the larger issues that lead to violence.”
UFT on state Legislature’s clarification on tenureMar 26, 2008
Chancellor Joel Klein at a press conference in Albany on March 26 asked Senate and Assembly leaders to drop language in a state bill precluding school districts from using student test scores to evaluate teachers for tenure. “The tenure language in the bill before the state Legislature simply clarifies what the Legislature and Governor agreed to last year: teachers can be evaluated on their use of student test scores and other data and how they adjust their own teaching to help students improve,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
UFT proposes new school accountability systemMar 13, 2008
In keeping with a resolution passed in November by the union’s Delegate Assembly, UFT President Randi Weingarten on March 13 unveiled an ambitious plan for a “transparent, fair and accurate” school accountability system. While standardized test scores would continue to play a role in determining a school’s overall evaluation, under the UFT’s proposed framework these tests would be placed into a broader context that includes the richness of a school’s curriculum, the overall school environment and the level and adequacy of funding and oversight the school receives from the central DOE.
Eliot Spitzer resigns as governorMar 12, 2008
Saying that he was “deeply sorry that I did not live up to what was expected of me,” Governor Eliot Spitzer resigned on March 12. The resignation will be effective on March 17, and Lt. Gov. David A. Paterson will be sworn in to replace him. “This is a tragedy for Eliot Spitzer and his family, and my heart goes out to his wife and daughters during what must be an excruciating time,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten. “We extend our strong support and best wishes to David Paterson as he assumes the role of Governor.”
Union survey shows midyear budget cuts hurt kidsMar 04, 2008
Just as the city called on March 4 for an additional 3 percent education budget cut on top of more than $324 million in cuts already proposed for the coming school year, a survey of New York City public schools shows that the current $100 million midyear cut to school budgets citywide is forcing many to drastically reduce or eliminate after-school programs, weekend classes and tutoring services, textbooks, instructional supplies, extracurricular activities and other services for children.
UFT opens contract talks for home child-care providersFeb 29, 2008
Having helped New York City’s 28,000 home-based child care providers form a union last fall in the city’s largest labor organizing drive in decades, the UFT, acting as their collective bargaining agent, opened contract talks on Feb. 29 with the state Office of Children and Family Services. “We hope to negotiate improvements for the providers that will raise the quality of the profession and help them achieve sorely needed economic gains as well,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
Governor signs 55/25 into lawFeb 28, 2008
A 55/25 retirement option long sought by the UFT took effect on Feb. 27 when Governor Eliot Spitzer signed the legislation needed for it to become law. “This is a great day for educators who want to make teaching New York City’s school children not just a calling but a career,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
Mayor’s report shows slight drop in average class sizeFeb 14, 2008
The Mayor’s Management Report released on Feb. 14 showed that citywide average class sizes dropped slightly in grades K-9. UFT President Randi Weingarten said that it was progress that the report now includes class-size data, but that it was hard to get an accurate picture from citywide averages. “Still, the figures show that where there’s a will there’s a way,” she said.
AFT leaders McElroy and LaCour announce plans to retireFeb 12, 2008
AFT President Edward McElroy and Secretary-Treasurer Nat LaCour on Feb. 12 announced their plans to retire. Both will continue to serve in their current capacities until the AFT national convention in Chicago in July. UFT President Randi Weingarten called McElroy “a tremendous leader” while, with respect to her own plans, she said that she will “give national union service serious and careful consideration.”
Council Speaker proposes pay incentive for teachers in low-performing middle schoolsFeb 12, 2008
Council Speaker Christine Quinn in her Feb. 12 State of the City address proposed a pilot program to offer bonus pay incentives to recruit and retain highly-qualified, experienced teachers to work in the city’s most challenging middle schools. UFT President Randi Weingarten gave Quinn credit for “championing schools that are in urgent need of support.”
Coalition launches campaign to protect schools from $700 million cutsFeb 10, 2008
Members of more than 60 community groups, parent organizations and unions, as well as some 40 state and city elected officials, have formed the “Keep the Promises” Coalition in response to proposed budget reductions in education for city schools.
UFT President Randi Weingarten on NYC Schools on SURR ListFeb 06, 2008
New York State Education Commissioner Richard Mills on Feb. 6 added 6 city schools to the list of Schools Under Registration Review, bringing the total number of schools on the SURR list to 32 in New York City. Five city schools on the SURR list currently are slated to close, and an additional four city schools that would have been placed on the SURR list will be closed instead. UFT President Randi Weingarten called for a “consistent, educationally sound plan to support and assist schools once they are identified as SURR ... We believe that closing schools should be the last resort, not a first step.”
UFT and principals' union join in opposing $100 million in new school budget cutsJan 31, 2008
On Jan. 30, the DOE e-mailed a letter to each of the city’s principals announcing an immediate 1.75% across-the-board midyear reduction citywide in school budgets. UFT President Randi Weingarten, CSA President Ernest Logan and other education allies held a press conference on the City Hall steps the following afternoon to announce that they were launching a coordinated campaign to fight the ill-timed cuts.
Response to Bush 2008 SotUJan 29, 2008
During his final State of the Union address, President Bush asked Congress to strengthen his No Child Left Behind Act and back a plan to use tax dollars to help low-income parents send children in struggling public schools to private or religious schools. UFT President Randi Weingarten responded, “Sadly, it comes as no surprise that the education proposals made by President Bush in his final State of the Union address basically amount to a rehashing of failed policies that offer nothing new or beneficial for America’s public school students.”
Mayor calls for education budget cutsJan 24, 2008
Citing the darkening economic outlook, Mayor Bloomberg called for spending cuts in virtually every city agency, including the Department of Education. UFT President Randi Weingarten responded, “Even though we are facing uncertain economic times, it is crucial for the city to protect core educational services in our public schools as we try to build upon the momentum of academic improvement we’ve made in recent years.”
Queens charter school to unionizeJan 23, 2008
The UFT and the Merrick Academy Charter School board of trustees reached an agreement on Jan. 23 that will allow its teachers to unionize immediately. “Today’s agreement is a giant step forward in giving the educators at Merrick the voice and respect that they deserve,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
Governor’s proposed budget reduces city school aid increaseJan 22, 2008
Facing the possibility of a nationwide recession leading to an economic downturn in the state, the executive budget proposed by Governor Eliot Spitzer on Jan. 22 called for reducing the $1.24 billion increase in education aid for New York City public schools by $350 million. “We look to the Legislature to restore these funds in order to maintain the integrity of the Campaign for Fiscal Equity agreement,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
UFT: DOE "misguided" to seek to use test scores to judge teachersJan 21, 2008
The New York Times reported on Jan. 21 that the city Department of Education has embarked on a secretive pilot program in which 2,500 teachers at 140 city public schools are being measured without their knowledge on how much their students improve on annual standardized tests. Of using these scores to evaluate teachers, UFT President Randi Weingarten said, “There are so many educational and technical flaws in this concept that I find it shocking that the school system is even considering it. The UFT will fight this on all grounds – educational, legal and moral."
UFT react to Gotbaum on testingJan 16, 2008
DOE rewards successful schools
Jan 04, 2008
Schools Chancellor Joel Klein on Jan. 3 awarded an additional $30 per student in discretionary funding to the 134 schools that received both an “A” on their Progress Report and the top score of “well developed” on their Quality Review for the 2006-07 school year. “While we agree that any effective school accountability system should recognize success, it must also provide the means to help struggling schools,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
State and city disagree on which schools are low-performingDec 21, 2007
State education officials on Dec. 20 announced that one in three New York City public elementary and middle schools are in need of improvement by federal academic standings. The data pointed out discrepancies between state and city accountability measures, with 170 schools that received As and Bs from the city failing to make enough progress by state measures. “This should serve as a big red flag telling the city and the state that they need to align their accountability systems,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
86% of eligible schools opt to participate in schoolwide bonus programDec 18, 2007
More than 200 high-need schools will participate in New York City’s first-ever school-wide performance bonus program, Chancellor Joel I. Klein and UFT President Randi Weingarten announced on Dec. 18.
UFT: Educators' housing project must be union-madeDec 03, 2007
The UFT is working with construction trade unions to ensure that an affordable workforce housing development for educators gets built by union workers. UFT President Randi Weingarten has threatened to walk away from the project unless it’s union-made. “Affordable workforce housing for teachers – and indeed, for all workers in New York City – is vitally important, but we cannot support an initiative that does not respect or support union workers,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
UFT: City’s class-size reduction plan ‘a good first step’Nov 19, 2007
After a storm of UFT and parent protests about its initial Contract For Excellence proposal failing to adequately plan for class size reduction, the New York City Department of Education issued on November 19 a revised five-year plan with specific targets. “This plan is a good step. But it’s just the beginning, not the end, because to make it real for all kids we need to have a cap, not an average,” said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
Teacher Resignations Hit Record HighNov 19, 2007
Resignations among certified city teachers for reasons other than retirement hit a record high of 4,303 last year – a 69 percent jump since 2001. Nearly 14 percent of new teachers hired in the previous school year have already left the system, United Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten said on Nov. 18.
UFT President Randi Weingarten on school progress reportsNov 05, 2007
Each public school in the city received a grade from "A" to "F" on Nov. 5 as the DOE released its first-ever school progress reports. UFT President Randi Weingarten expressed concern about the heavy weight given to standardized tests in determining the grade. Moreover, she said, "It's imperative that we use the data to inform instruction rather than punish schools, and that we develop concrete, meaningful steps that struggling schools can take in order to improve."
UFT celebrates representation of more than 200,000 workersNov 04, 2007
The UFT’s recognition of successful school partnerships between principals and educators at Teacher Union Day on Nov. 4 was made even sweeter as the union celebrated its unprecedented and historic growth to represent 201,486 people, making it the largest union local in the nation.
Dial-A-Teacher hotline now linked to HomeworkNYC.orgOct 30, 2007
The UFT is teaming up with the city's library systems to link the union's telephone homework help service and the libraries' homework Web site. "This partnership between us is a great move for both programs and a real win for the students and parents that come to us for help with homework," said UFT President Randi Weingarten. "As educators devoted to helping students succeed, we are thrilled to have this opportunity to broaden our reach and work with one of the most distinguished institutions in this country."
SUNY Trustees approve Green Dot charter school for South BronxOct 26, 2007
The SUNY Board of Trustees on Oct. 26 approved the application for the Green Dot New York Charter School founded in partnership by Green Dot Public Schools, the most prominent charter school operator in Southern California, and the UFT. Green Dot, unlike most charter school operators, encourages its teachers to unionize. The approval by the SUNY trustees sets the stage for final consideration by the State Board of Regents in the coming months.
Home child care providers give resounding "yes!" to UFTOct 24, 2007
New York City's 28,000 home-based child care providers have voted overwhelmingly to join the UFT, culminating the city's largest labor organizing drive in decades.
UFT and city agree on 55/25 and pilot program for voluntary, school-wide bonusesOct 17, 2007
The UFT, the city and the Department of Education on Oct. 17 agreed on mechanisms to implement two outstanding provisions of the 2005 collective-bargaining agreement: an option to allow educators to retire at age 55 with 25 years of service, and a program offering school-wide bonuses in 200 high-needs schools. "This agreement creates pro-active programs that address two major issues facing our schools, making the profession economically viable and fostering collaborative learning environments where teachers have real voice," UFT President Randi Weingarten said.
UFT President Randi Weingarten on student cash awards for AP scoresOct 16, 2007
The city launched on Oct. 15 a privately funded program that will offer cash awards to 25 public high schools and their students for doing well on Advanced Placement tests. UFT President Randi Weingarten responded that the new program did not tackle the underlying problem that too few city high schools offered AP courses. "We need to expand AP opportunities for our high school students, especially in schools serving high needs communities," she said.
UFT President Randi Weingarten on the AFT endorsement of Hillary Clinton: Oct. 3, 2007Oct 04, 2007
New York Senator Hillary Clinton wins AFT endorsement in 2007-8 Democratic primary for president.
UFT President Randi Weingarten on nationwide test scoresSep 25, 2007
Test scores of 4th and 8th graders across the United States in reading and mathematics on National Assessment of Educational Progress were released on Sept. 25.
Weingarten on IBO report on class sizeSep 25, 2007
An IBO report released on Sept. 24 found that 61 percent of kindergarten to third-grade classes last school year had more than the state-recommended standard of 20 students per class. Calling that finding “disturbing,” UFT President Randi Weingarten said, “There is universal agreement on class size reduction in the early grades; the question is why is it not happening for all the city’s students in kindergarten through third grade and how do we make it happen?”
Number of Oversized Classes in NYC Schools Drops, But Thousands Still Exceed Contractual Limits September 20, 2007Sep 20, 2007
Weingarten on New York City winning the 2007 Broad Prize
Sep 19, 2007
On Sept. 18, 2007, New York City won the Broad Prize, which is given each year to an urban school district that has made great improvements in student achievement. "This prize reaffirms what we consider to be an indisputable truth: New York has a truly remarkable teaching force," said UFT President Randi Weingarten.
Weingarten on school violence audit: September 19, 2007Sep 19, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten re School Violence Audit: September 19, 2007
Sep 19, 2007
Statement by Randi Weingarten, UFT President, On NYC Winning the Broad Prize September 18, 2007
Sep 18, 2007
Citywide Survey Shows 90% Parent Approval Rate for NYC Teachers September 6, 2007
Sep 06, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten on the resignation of Debbie Almontaser: August 10, 2007
Aug 10, 2007
UFT reacts to comptroller's report on special education
Jul 27, 2007
On July 25, an audit released by City Comptroller William Thompson reported that the Department of Education and does not properly monitor, track and document the services it supplies to special education elementary school students. The report called for, among other things, the introduction of formal policies and procedures for documenting that services such as occupational and physical therapy are delivered, because of the "very real risk that students are not receiving all the services" they deserve.
UFT President Randi Weingarten re Comptroller’s Audit of Special Ed: July 27, 2007Jul 27, 2007
State Certifies NYC Home Day Care Workers’ Right July 27, 2007
Jul 27, 2007
Weingarten Praises City Council for Override Of Mayor’s Veto of Whistleblower Bill
Jul 26, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten on the city’s revised “Contracts-for-Excellence” spending plan July 18, 2007
Jul 18, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten on City’s Revised Class Size Reduction Plan: July 17, 2007
Jul 17, 2007
UFT FORGES A ONE OF A KIND PARTNERSHIP WITH GREEN DOT PUBLIC SCHOOLS TO BRING A NEW CHARTER SCHOOL TO NEW YORK June 28, 2007
Jun 28, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten on Cash Incentives for Student Performance: June 18, 2007
Jun 18, 2007
Elected Officials On Hand As UFT, ACORN Submit Petitions To Let Home Day Care Workers Vote To Join Union May 17, 2007
May 17, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten on Graduation Rates April 25, 2007
Apr 25, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten on Gov. Spitzer's Budget January 31, 2007
Mar 19, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten on SURR School Announcement March 15, 2007
Mar 15, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten Responds To NCLB Report February 13, 2007
Feb 13, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten on Governor Spitzer’s Proposal January 29, 2007
Jan 29, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten on Weighted Student Funding Plan January 24, 2007
Jan 24, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten on Tenured Teachers January 18, 2007
Jan 18, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten on Tenure January 17, 2007
Jan 17, 2007
UFT Launches ‘Listen To A Teacher’ Campaign
Jan 10, 2007
The United Federation of Teachers began airing a series of TV commercials in New York City on Jan. 10, as part of a multi-million-dollar campaign stressing the importance of respecting and listening to teachers on educational policies – including the need for smaller classes.
UFT President Randi Weingarten on ‘Highly Qualified Teachers’ Report January 8, 2007Jan 08, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten on Gov. Spitzer’s State of the State Address January 3, 2007
Jan 03, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten on CFE Decision
Nov 20, 2006
“This decision has both good and bad aspects. We cannot mask our profound disappointment that the court has significantly reduced the amount from the $4 billion to $6 billion that other courts – and even Governor Pataki – felt was necessary to give New York City’s 1.1 million public school children a constitutionally required sound basic education.
Tentative contract agreementNov 07, 2006
The United Federation of Teachers and the City of New York reached a tentative agreement on Monday, Nov. 6 on a new two-year contract that would give every teacher at least a 7.1% raise and boost the most experienced teachers to more than $100,000.
Summer school students can stay home on Aug. 2 & 3 due to heatAug 01, 2006
Faced with a record-breaking heat wave and a lack of air conditioning at many schools in summer session, the UFT urged the DOE to close schools. The DOE responded by making summer school attendance not mandatory on Aug. 2 & 3.
Randi Weingarten on City’s $52.9 Billion Budget DealJun 28, 2006
UFT President Randi Weingarten made the following comments regarding the city’s $52.9 billion budget agreement that recognizes the needs of our public school students and teachers.
Statement From UFT President Randi Weingarten June 20, 2006Jun 20, 2006
Weingarten on state school violence report
Jun 13, 2006
Weingarten comments on a new state report on school crime data for the 2003-04 and 2004-05 school years indicates that New York City may have underreported incidents in schools. This has been a continuing complaint of the UFT School Safety Department.
Script for New Yorkers for Smaller Classes AdMay 31, 2006
UFT, New Yorkers For Smaller Classes Launch $1 Million TV Ad Campaign To Let Voters Decide On Lowering Class Sizes
May 31, 2006
New Yorkers for Smaller Classes -- a coalition of parents, teachers, education advocates and the United Federation of Teachers -- today unveiled a television ad campaign as part of its drive to let voters decide if the city should invest in lower class sizes for public school students. Parents and teachers consistently rank lowering class size as their top educational priority.
Cell phone policyMay 08, 2006
UFT President Randi Weingarten's remarks at an May 8, 2006 press conference with Bill de Blasio on the DOE's cell phone policy:
Statement from UFT President Randi Weingarten on agreementApr 19, 2006
CFE Radio Ad
Mar 27, 2006
The United Federation of Teachers is launching a radio ad campaign Tuesday urging the governor and the Legislature to comply with a court order to fund the Campaign for Fiscal Equity suit and give New York City schools “their fair share now.”
Teachers, Parents Lobby In Albany To Demand CFE FundingMar 14, 2006
In an unprecedented coalition, New York City teachers and parents – joined by students and key City Council leaders -- converged on Albany today to demand funding of the Campaign for Fiscal Equity lawsuit.
UFT President Randi Weingarten on DOE's Amnesty PolicyFeb 15, 2006
While we are in favor of an amnesty period,the timing of this act in relation to Commissioner Condon's report suggests the Department of Education believes that more of its employees fallinto the same category as Dr.McCaskill.
Family daycare providers call for back pay: state withheld our raisesFeb 07, 2006
Hundreds of home day care providers joined UFT President Randi Weingarten and New York ACORN Executive Director Bertha Lewis on Tuesday, Feb 7, for a protest march and rally over back pay and a lack of information about new subsidy rates.
First day of contract implementation a mixed bag says unionFeb 06, 2006
At the end of the first day of the implementation of the new contract that calls for 37.5 minutes tutoring sessions for children, UFT President Randi Weingarten made the following statement:
UFT reacts to Mayor's budget planJan 31, 2006
UFT President Randi Weingarten sends a clear message on the Mayor's budget saying "the city must step up to the plate and not wait for CFE to invest in...things that will actually reduce education costs in the future."
UFT reacts to mayor's State of the City addressJan 27, 2006
In his State of the City address yesterday, Mayor Bloomberg spoke about requiring municipal workers to pay health care premiums, mentioned the changes to Circular 6 that would require educators to perform administrative tasks and announced a teacher training program in partnership with NYU and CUNY. UFT President Randi Weingarten issued the following statement in response.
UFT responds to Chancellor's announcement of autonomy zones and bureacracy cutsJan 19, 2006
Weingarten told the press that the union was taking a wait and see attitude regarding the chancellor's announcement that he is seeking to take money from the bureacracy and put it into the classroom.
Weingarten on Pataki Budget, Charter SchoolsJan 18, 2006
UFT On ELA Results SNAFU
Jan 18, 2006
Statement from UFT President Randi Weingarten On City’s Guidelines to Implement New Contract
Nov 29, 2005
UFT President Randi Weingarten described as “a mixed bag” the contract implementation guidelines issued by the Department of Education on Nov. 29. “Some of them capture the intent of what was negotiated and some try for a second bite of the apple to get what the city couldn’t get at the bargaining table,” she said. “We will oppose – on behalf of students, parents and staff – the DOE’s attempts to overreach.”
UFT responds to Mayor’s plan to open 100 new small schoolsOct 21, 2005
UFT responds to Mayor’s plan to open 100 new small schools
UFT, CITY REACH AGREEMENT ON NEW CONTRACTOct 03, 2005
Assessment Tests
Aug 17, 2005
The NYC Department of Education released the citywide and statewide assessment calendar for the 2005-2006 school year on August 9, 2005 that includes a second set of duplicative tests. See what UFT President Randi Weingarten said and the calendar of the scheduled assessments.
Statement from UFT President Randi Weingarten on the City Council’s Class Size Initiative and a Newly Filed Suit to Put Question to Voters in 2006Aug 17, 2005
Historic organizing drive announced
Jul 14, 2005
In the largest organizing effort in New York in decades, the UFT, NYSUT and ACORN today launched a campaign to unionize more than 52,000 home day care providers across the state. Read more.
UFT President Randi Weingarten and Union Officials Deliver More Than 60,000 Report Cards on Mayor Bloomberg and Chancellor Klein to Tweed CourthouseJun 02, 2005
UFT President delivers 60,000 report cards grading the mayor and the chancellor to Department of Education headquarters at the Tweed Courthouse.
Randi Weingarten Statement on Release Of Reading and Math Scores for Grades 3 through 8Jun 02, 2005
UFT President Weingarten praises the hard work of all the educators in our schools for raising test scores in math and English Language Arts across the city.
UFT RELEASES NEW AD MARKING TWO YEARS WITHOUT A CONTRACTMay 31, 2005
Religious Observance Days
Mar 21, 2005
Statement from Randi Weingarten on Chancellor Klein's remarks on religious observance days: "We're deeply disturbed that the DOE would take such an anti-religious position like this.
Fact-finding ordered as PERB rules for UFT requestMar 17, 2005
Upholding a request from the United Federation of Teachers, the state Public Employment Relations Board has ordered fact-finding in the UFT’s efforts to negotiate a contract with the city.
Elementary school time use surveyMar 07, 2005
Students are losing upward of two days a week of classroom instruction time because teachers are being forced to spend more and more time on test preparation and increasing amounts of mandatory paperwork, a survey by the United Federation of Teachers shows. As part of an administration push to raise scores, elementary school teachers say their students are losing valuable instruction time on such core subjects as science and social studies.
UFT Press Release on Decision to Open SchoolsMar 01, 2005
By delaying until 6 a.m. the decision to open schools in the wake of this latest snow storm, the DOE has inconvenienced educators, students and parents.
DOE "playing catch-up" on gifted and talented programFeb 16, 2005
In response to Chancellor Joel I. Klein's announcement that the Department of Education was launching a new, comprehensive approach to gifted and talented education, UFT President Randi Weingarten made the following statement:
Weingarten reacts to announcement that city will open 52 new small schools in SeptemberFeb 01, 2005
In a press conference at Mercy College in the Bronx, Mayor Bloomberg and Chancellor Klein announced today that they will open 52 new small schools across the city in September. UFT President Randi Weingarten had this to say about the plan:
Randi reacts to expense budgetJan 27, 2005
Fewer schools on SURR list
Jan 04, 2005
This year 16 New York City schools worked their way off the SURR list,building on the past success of the Chancellor's District program.
PERB says talks are deadlockedDec 27, 2004
UFT President Randi Weingarten issued the following statement:
DOE gift-giving policy inaneDec 20, 2004
DOE feels compelled to tell parents to limit the value of any gifts to their children’s teachers to $5.
UFT President's Statement Regarding the Status of NegotiationsOct 14, 2004
Weingarten not as optimistic in reaching a new contract as the NY Times might indicate.
Math Scores Heading in the Right Direction, Says UFTOct 07, 2004
Math scores for New York City students rose again this year and UFT President Randi Weingarten called the results "good news" in her statement to the press.
Weingarten Testifies before Manhattan Borough President-Re: "Children First"Sep 08, 2004 Budget Formula Will Could Leave Schools Short, UFT Testifies
Aug 24, 2004 Weingarten Proposes $1.5 Billion "Education Stimulus Initiative" to Boost Teacher Salaries and Aid Struggling Schools
May 10, 2004 Randi Weingarten Statement Re: Social Promotion
Jan 09, 2004 New DOE Capital Plan Falls Short
Nov 04, 2003
