Category Archive
Sharing the stage with legendsMar 04, 2010
The dance team at JHS 157 in Queens hit the big time when it performed at a Harlem Globetrotters game at Madison Square Garden — with an assist from their teachers. The five-minute hip-hop mix performed at halftime during a Feb. 12 game had months of hard work behind it.
Meet the president: school secretariesMar 04, 2010
UFT secretaries had a lot on their minds at a Meet the President event at union headquarters on Feb. 9. Special Representative Amy Arundell and Grievance Department Director Howard Solomon answered scores of questions, but there were plenty left over for the Q&A that followed UFT President Michael Mulgrew’s remarks.
Kearns Goodwin honored at milestone celebrationMar 04, 2010
Coinciding with the UFT’s 50th anniversary, the union’s affiliated Association of Teachers of Social Studies celebrated 50 years of its annual professional development conference on Feb. 6, when more than 300 social studies teachers turned out for the packed day of workshops and awards.
Meet the president: District 24Mar 04, 2010
At the Queens District 24 Meet the President event on Feb. 4, UFT President Michael Mulgrew spoke with humor and passion about the challenges facing members in schools: the shrinking school budgets, the relentless focus on standardized testing and the lack of curriculum. “Why are teachers vocal? Because they’ve dedicated their lives to children,” he said.
Well worth the waitMar 04, 2010
Parents, staff and students cheered as the ribbon was cut to mark the opening of the newly renovated library at PS 158 in Brooklyn on Jan. 28. Funds for the new space, called The Warwick Children’s Library, were obtained from the city budget, with the help of Councilman Erik Martin Dilan and the City Council.
A whole new ballgameMar 04, 2010
UFT President Michael Mulgrew was among the speakers at a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Business of Sports School in Manhattan on Feb. 8. “I’m glad to see members of private industry and other affiliated groups represented here this morning,” Mulgrew said. “This demonstrates that we can drive positive change in education through collaboration.”
‘The 3M’s’ — and other fun topicsMar 04, 2010
“The 3M’s — Mice, Mold and Microorganisms” were on the agenda when lab specialists took part in a training session at the union’s Manhattan headquarters from Jan. 26 to 29. The 3M’s, as the proper rules to follow for chemical disposal are affectionately called in schools, was the subject of one of the question-and-answer sessions, with UFT industrial hygienist consultant Ed Olmsted giving a PowerPoint presentation and fielding questions.
Teachers’ expertise on displayMar 04, 2010
Fun and creativity made for lots of learning at Enrichment Day at PS 32, Brooklyn, on Feb. 4. UFT Chapter Leader Jessica Alford explained that, to prepare for the day, “all the teachers pick an area of their expertise, offering two periods a week in a cluster.” She said one class made and sold milk shakes and learned about business basics such as advertising, promotion, marketing and field testing.
Benefit for HaitiMar 04, 2010
They rehearsed hard, they sold tickets, they performed their hearts out and, by the end of the night, they raised $2,500 at Talented Unlimited HS for the victims of Haiti’s earthquake. Students and staff at the Manhattan performing arts school turned their collective gifts into gold after drama teacher Christina Glover Peacock got the idea for a theatrical fundraiser and ran it past her colleagues.
Don't squeeze us outMar 04, 2010
Angry and concerned parents joined teachers and administrators at a rally at IS 59 in Springfield Gardens on Feb. 9 to protest Department of Education plans to put a boys’ school, grades 6 through 12, on the upper floor of the Queens school building. As it turned out, their efforts were not wasted.
Big smiles, everyone!Feb 18, 2010
The kids at Harlem’s PS 185 were all smiles as Karen Alford, UFT vice president of elementary schools, joined Dr. Rabbit and Dr. Brushwell as their dentist helpers examined the teeth of 100 youngsters at the school.
Recalling the horrorsFeb 18, 2010
A new generation learned about one of the darkest times in history when teacher Sarah Schmerler initiated a sensitive and probing Holocaust education and tolerance program at IS 187 in Brooklyn. It included testimonials from survivors of the Third Reich, who visited the school.
Enjoy the celebrationFeb 18, 2010
New York’s only professional off-Broadway theater dedicated to creating and producing plays for and about working people, the Working Theater, has a lot in store for audiences this special anniversary season. The renowned company is featuring 25 projects over 25 weeks to celebrate 25 years of treading the boards.
Awards, recognition, fun on the menuFeb 18, 2010
Nearly 300 people attended this year’s UFT African Heritage Committee dinner dance and awards ceremony, which went late into the night at Antun’s in Queens Village on Feb. 5.
City year day of serviceFeb 18, 2010
UFT President Michael Mulgrew put his carpentry skills to good use as he volunteered at Star Academy in the Bronx in an event sponsored by City Year, a not-for-profit organization that staged a day of service in cities across the country on Martin Luther King Day, Jan. 18.
Meet the President: District 6Feb 18, 2010
Where is the clear educational vision that we need to improve student achievement and move the system forward?” UFT President Michael Mulgrew asked a large crowd from Manhattan’s District 6 assembled for their Meet the President event at Havana Central restaurant on Jan. 28.
UFTers advocate for their studentsFeb 18, 2010
More than 100 UFT-represented charter school educators, along with their students, parents and administrators, hopped aboard buses headed to Albany on Feb. 2 for the chance to meet with state legislators and advocate for their schools.
Awards, recognition, fun on the menu — photo galleryFeb 18, 2010
UFTers advocate for their students — photo gallery
Feb 18, 2010
Meet the president: guidance counselors
Feb 18, 2010
“We’re clinicians, educators, leaders, coordinators, consultants, everything!” said Diana Murillo, a guidance counselor at Brooklyn’s New Utrecht HS. Murillo was one of dozens of counselors at a packed reception for meeting UFT President Michael Mulgrew, held at union headquarters on Feb. 3 during National School Counseling Week.
Celebrating counselors’ role in kids’ livesFeb 18, 2010
“This is our opportunity to get more training and to meet guidance counselors from all over the city and share our observations,” said Maria Prieto, a fourth-year counselor from Emma Lazarus HS in Manhattan. She was among the nearly 400 counselors who turned out on Jan. 30 for the sixth annual Guidance Counselor Conference at UFT headquarters.
Weekend warriorsFeb 18, 2010
More than 100 school secretaries turned out early on the morning of Saturday, Jan. 23, to attend this year’s annual School Secretaries Chapter Seminar. Held at UFT headquarters, the annual event is intended to provide secretaries with training that the Department of Education should be — but is not — providing.
Merrick Academy Charter School protest: Community members support UFTersFeb 18, 2010
Chanting “kids yes, profits no,” more than a dozen angry community members picketed outside the lower Manhattan law offices of Merrick Academy honcho Gerald Karikari on Feb. 5 to protest the persistent mismanagement, including sporadic heating and a lack of textbooks and copy paper.
Anger, frustration at FDR rallyFeb 18, 2010
At a spirited Franklin D. Roosevelt HS rally On Feb. 1, more than 200 people turned out to protest its listing as one of 34 schools earmarked by the state as in need of restructuring or closure. The poster "B’s don’t equal F’s” told the whole story of confusing federal, state and city standards being used in the seeming rush to shut down city schools.
Education by the bookFeb 04, 2010
By the end of the afternoon, there were many little aspiring authors and illustrators of children’s books. Stirring up excitement about the world of books was, after all, an intent of the Family Literacy Festival at PS 125 in Manhattan.
UFT Green Schools Committee meeting: Sustainability starts at schoolFeb 04, 2010
At its Dec. 15 meeting at UFT headquarters, the UFT Green Schools Committee heard from members, the Department of Education’s Sustainability Committee and other green organizations. They made plans to create curriculum for teachers who want to celebrate Earth Day with their classes, and heard from guest speakers.
The whole ball of waxFeb 04, 2010
“Our class trip to Madame Tussaud’s was fabulous,” said Evelyn Castillo, with her kids and the first couple in a replica of the Oval Office. Michelle Obama joined her husband in time for Black History Month, which Castillo, who teaches at Manhattan’s PS 192, decided to celebrate Manhattan’s PS 192, decided to celebrate at the city’s renowned wax museum.
UFT joins call for affordable health careFeb 04, 2010
Health care reform supporters rallied at City Hall on Jan. 20 to send the day’s unmistakable message to lawmakers: Save Our New York City Safety Net Health Care Facilities — Do No Harm!
'Let's start helping schools'Feb 04, 2010
At a press conference called by City Council Deputy Majority Leader Leroy Comrie on Jan.21, UFT President Michael Mulgrew joined elected officials, community leaders and education advocates in opposing the wholesale closing of 20 city schools.
Lots to celebrate — photo galleryFeb 04, 2010
Paras get deserved recognition — photo gallery
Feb 04, 2010
Lots to celebrate
Feb 04, 2010
The 240 family child care providers who dined, danced and told Santa what they wanted at a holiday party on Dec. 11 at UFT headquarters were celebrating both the holidays and their first union contract, won after years of struggle. UFT President Michael Mulgrew.
Paras get deserved recognitionFeb 04, 2010
The annual District 20 Scholarship Dinner Dance, a tradition that ranks among the union’s most popular celebratory events, drew nearly 200 people, including elected state and city officials, to Brooklyn’s El Caribe Country Club on Jan. 21.
Tapping into kids’ interestsFeb 04, 2010
There was a silver lining to an overcrowding problem when Brooklyn District 20 opened a new school that teachers are raving about. Chapter Leader Ellen Lotz says that PS 682 Academy of Talented Scholars, which opened in September, has the best work environment she’s ever experienced. And according to the veteran teacher, her co-workers agree.
Meet the president: District 22Feb 04, 2010
The devastating earthquake in Haiti was on the minds of more than 200 UFT members from Brooklyn District 22 who turned out for a Meet the President event on Jan. 22. During the gathering, boxes were passed out for cash contributions for residents of Haiti still suffering from the monstrous earthquake.
Meet the president: District 4Jan 11, 2010
At the District 4 Meet the President gathering on Dec. 15, UFT President Michael Mulgrew briefed members on state and city budget ills, unveiled plans to work with the community to stop school closings and addressed Department of Education failures to educate children. Some 200 members were in attendance.
Meet the president: District 3Jan 11, 2010
UFT members in District 3 turned out in an upbeat, holiday mood to a Meet the President event at Havana Central on the Upper West Side on Dec. 8. But there were some serious concerns mixed in with the high spirits, which members discussed with UFT President Michael Mulgrew.
Cultural experienceJan 11, 2010
The UFT African-American Heritage Committee celebrated Kwanzaa on Dec. 17 at the union’s Brooklyn office. Approximately 100 UFT members, guests and children attended.
Mulgrew praises honoreeJan 11, 2010
Citizen Action of New York — an organization that for more than a quarter century has been at the vanguard of campaigns to improve health care and education, as well as reform an electoral process tainted by big money — held its Progressive Leadership Awards Gala at the Penn Club on Dec. 8.
Getting the respect they deserveJan 11, 2010
UFT President Michael Mulgrew announced the start of a President’s Council for the charter school chapter, to begin meeting in January to ensure a “constant dialogue” between the UFT and its members. At a Dec. 18 social for charter school members, that idea was roundly applauded by the nearly 400 teachers in attendance.
Plenty of reasons to smileJan 11, 2010
The Black Caucus of the AFT, the UFT’s national affiliate, joined forces with the New York City Coalition for the Homeless at the Alhambra Ballroom in Manhattan to help approximately 100 children celebrate the holiday season with a book and toy drive.
Bringing the King of Pop to lifeJan 11, 2010
Students at PS 83, a K-8 school in the Bronx, had been hard at work since September, arriving before school starts, and practicing during lunch and after school for their Winter Showcase, “Music and Arts Explosion: A Tribute to the King of Pop,” a two-hour production that sold out all 625 seats on Dec. 16.
Graceful lessonsJan 11, 2010
Under the direction of paraprofessional Donna Douglas, with help from teacher Mayra Pascual, students from a District 75 school in Brooklyn are learning the importance of teamwork and trust — through dance. The BTC Dancers of PS 373 have wowed audiences with their performances at events throughout the city.
Making sure folks don’t go hungryJan 11, 2010
It was supposed to be a school staff food drive, then parents and neighbors got word and, before long, UFT Queens District 26 had collected enough edibles to fill two good-sized classrooms.
Getting the respect they deserve — Photo galleryJan 11, 2010
Plenty of reasons to smile — photo gallery
Jan 11, 2010
Meet the president: District 4 - photo gallery
Jan 11, 2010
Four honored
Dec 17, 2009
The UFT Hispanic Affairs Committee held its annual Heritage Celebration and Awards Gala on Nov. 17 at the Villa Barone Manor in the Bronx. Among those honored by the group at the event were Catalina Fortino of the UFT Teacher Center, UFT Director of Staff Ellie Engler, UFT Health Department Coordinator Chris Proctor and Family Child Care Provider Chapter Chair Tammie Miller.
Meet the president: Districts 25 and 26Dec 17, 2009
UFT President Michael Mulgrew delivered some tough news tempered by a powerful message at the Meet the President event in Great Neck on Dec. 1. He gave a spirited call to action on the grassroots level, noting that the union already has political and community action personnel working hard in every district.
Meet the president: District 32Dec 17, 2009
“I don’t know much about the new union president. What are his ideas? That’s why I’m here tonight,” said Tara Jones-Francis, from Brooklyn’s IS 347. She was among the nearly 200 UFT members from Brooklyn District 32, including neighboring high schools, who turned out on Nov. 24 to welcome — and to hear out and to question — UFT President Michael Mulgrew.
Meet the president: District 18Dec 17, 2009
At the Dec. 3rd Meet the President event at PS 115 in Canarsie, UFT President Michael Mulgrew blasted Mayor Bloomberg’s recent policy speech in D.C which called for eliminating seniority provisions governing layoffs, tying teacher tenure to student test scores and getting rid of ATRs who have not found another job in a year.
Teachers Network awards: Lesson plans reap many dividendsDec 17, 2009
A cornucopia of award-winning lesson plans designed by New York City public school teachers are available for free and are just a mouse click away.
Meet the president: Districts 25 and 26 - photo galleryDec 17, 2009
Learning hands-on strategies - photo gallery
Dec 17, 2009
Discussing important partnerships
Dec 17, 2009
At a Nov. 19 meeting at UFT headquarters, UFT Vice President of Career and Technical Education High Schools Sterling Roberson told CTE chapter leaders about how the union wants to showcase the work that they do with labor, industry, higher education and community partners.
Learning hands-on strategiesDec 17, 2009
The UFT Teacher Center, partnering with the Center for Arts Education, held the first of three Arts and Education Conferences on Nov. at UFT headquarters. It focused on grades K-5 and provided an opportunity for teachers interested in the arts to discover ways to help their schools integrate the arts across the curriculum.
Marvelous MarvDec 17, 2009
Recently retired UFT Director of Legislation and Political Action Marvin Reiskin went out as he came in — fighting for teachers and students.
How to be your own best advocateDec 17, 2009
UFT members and retirees had a chance to learn how to advocate for themselves with their doctors and to stay abreast of recent medical research at the fifth annual “Fireside conversation with Dr. Larry Norton” on Nov. 19 at UFT headquarters in Manhattan.
UFT founder Altomare receives labor history honorDec 17, 2009
UFT Director of Worker Education George Altomare was honored on Dec. 1 at the New York Labor History Association’s 23rd annual John Commerford Labor Education Awards.
Celebrating Italian cultureNov 26, 2009
People left the UFT’s Festa Italiana on Oct. 16 well-fed, serenaded and with vowels at the end of their names, if they didn’t have them before, “so everyone could be Italian for the night,” said Patricia Filomena.
Creative conferenceNov 26, 2009
The New York City Art Teachers Association/UFT held its 29th annual conference — Artworks ’09 — at LaGuardia HS of Music and Performing Arts on Oct. 24.
Speaking of the classroom ...Nov 26, 2009
On a recent Saturday, UFT headquarters sounded like the Tower of Babel as some 342 teachers of foreign languages gathered for their Annual Professional Conference.
Celebrating impressive victoriesNov 26, 2009
The UFT Women’s Team celebrated their first place win in the JP Morgan Corporate Challenge Race at a Nov. 12 UFT Runners Club celebration at historic Ulysses Pub in downtown Manhattan.
‘To help other people at all times’Nov 26, 2009
UFT President Michael Mulgrew was honored by the Greater New York Councils of the Boy Scouts of America at its annual labor luncheon on Nov. 5 at the Hilton Hotel, Manhattan. The Scouts presented Mulgrew with the Good Scout Award.
Pension check snafu and fighting foreclosuresNov 26, 2009
UFT President Michael Mulgrew was a featured speaker at the well-attended Nov. 10 general membership meeting of the Retired Teachers Chapter on Nov. 6.
Meet the president: District 30Nov 26, 2009
UFT President Michael Mulgrew covered a range of topics — from the budget crunch to contract negotiations — at the Nov. 12 Meet the President event for Queens District 30.
Meet the president: Districts 27 and 28Nov 26, 2009
Overlooking Shell Bank Basin and its moored pleasure craft, the engaging Roma View in Howard Beach contrasted with the harsh realities that UFT President Michael Mulgrew addressed at the Meet the President event for Districts 27 and 28 on Nov. 3. “We’re under complete attack by the city’s two main tabloids,” Mulgrew said. “The most effective way to rebut these attacks is members talking to the community every day about what we do.”
Subs: Register with SubCentralNov 26, 2009
As a retiree you will automatically receive your substitute certificate in the mail; however, you can register with SubCentral prior to receiving your certificate.
Greenacres coming to GravesendNov 26, 2009
The asphalt playground at PS 216 in Gravesend, Brooklyn, is about to go from ugly ducking to swan, as it is transformed into a quarter-acre organic farm, the likes of which have never been seen before in New York City.
Rallying against ed cutsNov 12, 2009
It’s not just public schools that face devastating midyear education cuts. Both the state and city university systems — SUNY and CUNY — are hurting.
A ghoulish good timeNov 12, 2009
Blood, guts and collaboration; skeletons, saws and scholarships: the Haunted House at the HS of Graphic Communication Arts in Manhattan had it all at their hair-raising Oct. 28 event.
For their students’ sakeNov 12, 2009
Rain couldn’t stop these teachers from participating in the Walk 4 Hearing event on Oct 18 in Manhattan’s Riverside Park.
Zetta Elliot still ‘teaching’Nov 12, 2009
Zetta Elliot’s books represent the lives of black children she never saw in children’s books when she was growing up. The dynamic author tackles serious topics in her books, which she said “should be a window on the world and a mirror.”
Honoring a life devoted to othersNov 12, 2009
The dedication of the Armand Blasse Conference Room at the UFT Brooklyn office on Oct. 27 brought together his union colleagues and family to honor the longtime union activist and district rep whose untimely death at age 53 is still mourned.
Meet the president: District 31Nov 12, 2009
UFT President and Staten Island native Michael Mulgrew received an enthusiastic welcome from 250 members at a Meet the President event on the island’s South Shore on Oct. 26.
Meet the president: District 20 - photo galleryNov 12, 2009
A ghoulish good time - photo gallery
Nov 12, 2009
Meet the president: District 20
Nov 12, 2009
It was billed as a chance for District 20 and area high school members to meet their union president, but it looked more like a costume party at this Oct. 30 event.
Meet the president: District 21 - photo galleryOct 29, 2009
Meet the president: District 1 - photo gallery
Oct 29, 2009
You can count on them
Oct 29, 2009
Members who had 100 percent attendance at the Delegate Assembly for the last school year were honored and treated to dinner at union headquarters in Manhattan on Oct. 14.
PS 288, BrooklynOct 29, 2009
It’s easy to see that the UFT chapter at PS 288, Brooklyn, is united — and not just because everyone was wearing pink for breast-cancer awareness on Oct. 20 when UFT President Michael Mulgrew stopped by for a visit with members.
Meet the president: District 29 - photo galleryOct 29, 2009
Meet the president: District 21
Oct 29, 2009
Michael Mulgrew taught for many years and was chapter leader at Brooklyn’s Grady HS before moving on to the UFT presidency. When he shared some of his classroom memories with a large group of District 21 members at an Oct. 22 Meet the President forum in Coney Island, there were nods of recognition.
Meet the president: District 1Oct 29, 2009
District 1 filled the Sunshine Seafood Restaurant in Chinatown on Oct. 21 for a Meet the President afternoon.
Meet the president: District 29Oct 29, 2009
UFT President Michael Mulgrew urged 200 educators from District 29 to “fight for our profession, navigate the budget and stick together,” during a Meet the President event on Oct. 20 at a Queens catering hall. Mulgrew stressed the importance of members’ community outreach to help balance the negative portrayals of teachers found in some of the local media.
For one of their ownOct 29, 2009
More than 550 people in Manhattan’s PS/MS 278 school community held their very own march against breast cancer on Oct. 8. for reasons dear to their heart.
Flag day for proud unionistOct 29, 2009
Ravi Rozdon, the UFT’s own Commander Robert Peary, planted the UFT flag on the North Pole this past summer.
It’s elementaryOct 29, 2009
Nearly 90 delegates and chapter leaders turned out to meet UFT Vice President of Elementary Schools Karen Alford, colleagues from around the city, and other UFT officials at an Oct. 21 reception at UFT headquarters.
Language no barrierOct 29, 2009
At Flushing HS in Queens on Oct. 18, hundreds of parents attended the UFT’s fifth annual Education Conference for Chinese-Speaking Parents on how to help their English-language-learning children.
We’ve got you coveredOct 15, 2009
The lesson of the day at the UFT Manhattan borough office’s new teacher reception on Oct. 1 was: “Don’t wait until something negative happens before you reach out to your union.”
‘Primary’ discussion in District 2Oct 15, 2009
UFT President Michael Mulgrew stressed the importance of the UFT’s get-out-the-vote effort in the races for comptroller and public advocate during a Meet the President forum for UFT members in District 2.
Donations for New OrleansOct 15, 2009
The executive board of the UFT Speech Chapter gathered at union headquarters on Sept. 23 to collect donations for teachers and therapists in New Orleans schools devastated by Hurricane Katrina.
Learning to prevent cervical cancerOct 15, 2009
What form of cancer affects three out of every four women at some point in their lives, can be fatal, but is treatable if caught early? If you guessed cervical cancer, you’re right.
Helping children learnOct 15, 2009
The nonprofit organization Learning Leaders, which sends 10,000 volunteers to more than 850 public schools across New York City, held its annual opening meeting.
Discovering treasureOct 15, 2009
Students at Brooklyn’s PS 86 are overjoyed about being recipients for the past three years of a community program called Operation Backpack.
Standing up to the MTAOct 15, 2009
UFT President Michael Mulgrew didn’t mince words when he addressed hundreds of angry Transport Workers Union Local 100 members protesting the Metropolitan Transit Authority’s attempt to overturn a binding arbitration ruling that awarded transit workers an 11 percent pay increase over three years.
‘Bakers, not bonuses!’Oct 15, 2009
A number of UFTers joined the Stella D’oro workers’ support rally, held in front of Goldman-Sachs’ Wall Street area headquarters on Sept. 25.
Borough info meetings helpfulOct 15, 2009
Teachers in Queens interested in the Measures of Effective Teaching Project attended the last of the five informational boroughwide meetings held at the Queens UFT borough office.
'Primary' discussion in District 2 - photo galleryOct 15, 2009
In the ‘Beginning’
Oct 01, 2009
About 75 teachers attended the UFT Teacher Center’s Welcome Conference, “Beginning the Journey,” and were enthusiastic about the keynote speaker, Julia G. Thompson, author of “The First-Year Teacher’s Survival Guide.”
Supplies partyOct 01, 2009
Tough economic times have made it hard for many parents to outfit their kids and buy the supplies they will need for the new school year. So it was the Discovery Channel to the rescue — at least for the parents whose children attend PS 102 in Manhattan.
Marching for respect for all working peopleOct 01, 2009
More than 600 UFTers joined thousands of other unionists and labor supporters for the nation’s oldest celebration of workers’ rights and labor victories, marching up Fifth Avenue for the city’s annual Labor Day Parade.
UFT, Channel 11 come throughOct 01, 2009
When the UFT heard about a campaign being put together by the Coalition and WPIX Channel 11 to provide backpacks full of school supplies to thousands of homeless children, the union jumped into action.
A room of their ownOct 01, 2009
At a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 8, everyone who works at IS 228, Brooklyn, got their first official eyeful of the brand-new sunny space where they could meet, eat, network, let their hair down and keep their spirits up.
Need storage? These nifty seat sacks won’t break the budgetOct 01, 2009
Room 206 at Brooklyn’s PS 86 had no closets, shelving or even the kind of desks with lids where kids can stash their stuff. The teachers and Principal Mabel Sarduy at the collaborative school put their heads together and came up with a spiffy idea. The seat sack.
UFT, Channel 11 come through - photo galleryOct 01, 2009
Marching for respect for all working people - Photo gallery
Oct 01, 2009
It's a small world
Sep 17, 2009
Learning to cross the grant canyon
Sep 17, 2009
New teachers determined to get the best for their students packed a workshop on finding and writing grants, held at the UFT’s Manhattan borough office.
Gearing up for the challengesSep 17, 2009
School secretaries from all five boroughs who are new to the profession or are changing their job titles came together to learn the lingo, procedures and rules that govern their jobs and help them keep their schools running efficiently.
Get ready to put your best foot forwardSep 17, 2009
As a sponsor of the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, the UFT brought its compassion and commitment to the event’s 2009 kick-off breakfast held by the American Cancer Society.
Festive way to connect with familiesSep 17, 2009
The beats of reggae, soca, calypso and Haitian kompa got people moving. The aromas of oxtail, curry, roti and corn got them filling their plates. And the UFT’s message — “It’s All About the Classroom” — hit home for tens of thousands of Caribbean American families celebrating the 2009 West Indian Day Parade.
Helping and learning in NicaraguaSep 17, 2009
Two UFTers were among the 10 delegates of the NYSUT Labor-Religion Coalition who spent a week in June with unions, teachers and farmers in Nicaragua as part of a mission to explore fair trade practices around the world.
Making schools saferSep 17, 2009
Nineteen laboratory specialists, science and vocational teachers, and school safety supervisors took a UFT-AFT course in chemical emergency response.
International Food Festival at PS 36, Brooklyn: It’s a small worldSep 17, 2009
It was “around the world in 30 days” for students in the extended-year program at PS 36, a District 75 school in Brooklyn for children with emotional and behavior issues.
Manhattan new teachers' end-of-year celebration: They survived life in the teaching laneAug 13, 2009
t was the perfect day for an indoor picnic. Heavy rains didn’t dampen the spirits of Manhattan’s new teachers, who had to ditch plans for a park outing and meet at their UFT borough office for a June 12 end-of-year celebration.
Participants learn how to advocate for special-needs studentsAug 13, 2009
Nearly 100 parents turned out for a UFT Parent Outreach Committee meeting at the union’s Brooklyn borough office on June 23 to learn how to best advocate for children with special needs.
Harlem educators shown appreciationAug 13, 2009
More than 300 people turned out on June 11 for an elegant end-of-year reception honoring the educators of Harlem, with a special tribute to AFT President Randi Weingarten.
PIP participants share their hard-won successAug 13, 2009
uccess was in the air at the UFT Peer Intervention Program’s end-of-year celebration on June 11. It was hard-won success, the result of teachers spending an intensive year working with PIP intervenors in their classrooms and one-on-one for the purpose of improving their professional skills or, if they decide to leave the public school system, to get top-notch career counseling.
Here’s to the winnersAug 13, 2009
The New York City Coaches Association/UFT annual awards dinner was held at the Clearview Golf Club in Queens on June 19. Honored this year as Man of the Year was Marc Zaretsky of Thomas Edison HS. The New York City Coaches Association Sportsmanship award went to Claudel Martin of the HS for Civil Rights.
Awards dinner for supervisors of school securityAug 13, 2009
The first awards dinner for supervisors of school security, who are UFT members who work in schools in all five boroughs, was held at Creole Restaurant in Manhattan on June 19.
Up to speed at Corporate ChallengeAug 13, 2009
A UFT team of 49 teachers made tracks at the June 10 JP Morgan Chase Corporate Challenge Race of 3.5 miles in Central Park. Out of the nearly 900 teams competing over the two days of the race, the UFT women’s team came in first, the coed team placed third and the men’s team finished fourth.
District 6 representative Martin Plotkin retiresAug 13, 2009
Martin Plotkin, the UFT Manhattan District 6 representative known for his fairness, kindness and ability to be tough when fighting for teachers and kids, is retiring after a long career in public education.
PSAL baseball championships at Yankee StadiumAug 13, 2009
The first two championship celebrations in the new Yankee Stadium took place June 9, when the Public Schools Athletic League crowned its A and B Division baseball champions.
Plotkin: A fighter for teachers and kidsAug 11, 2009
Up to speed at Corporate Challenge
Aug 11, 2009
Educators shown appreciation
Aug 11, 2009
Yankee Stadium first
Aug 11, 2009
Union’s COO recognized for helping workers, their families
Jul 29, 2009
UFT Chief Operating Officer Michael Mulgrew, who is also the union’s vice president for career and technical education high schools, was among those honored by the New York City branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.
‘A’ celebration - photo galleryJun 29, 2009
Peanut butter-jelly time - photo gallery
Jun 29, 2009
26 honored for outstanding support to students - photo gallery
Jun 29, 2009
The ’80s revisited - photo gallery
Jun 29, 2009
That's entertainment - photo gallery
Jun 29, 2009
Honor of the ‘Millennium’
Jun 29, 2009
Lincoln Center Institute presented its Imagination Award to Millennium Art Academy of the Bronx this year for its innovative teaching and learning programs, which use the arts to encourage students to inquire and seek deeper understanding about the human experience.
Six UFTers honoredJun 29, 2009
The six UFT teacher winners of Blackboard Awards for their “dedication, commitment and focus on excellence” typify the very best in what’s happening in the city’s public schools.
The ’80s revisitedJun 29, 2009
Great big boom boxes instead of itty bitty iPods. Clunky reel-to-reels instead of streamlined digital recorders. Vinyl instead of CDs or downloads. Ancient history. That’s what the 1980s could seem like to students at Brooklyn Academy HS in Bedford-Stuyvesant.
School safety, gifted and talented presentations get rave reviewsJun 29, 2009
The UFT, joined by the Department of Education, conducted an all-day workshop on school safety and other topics at union headquarters and at the Queens and Staten Island borough offices, the UFT Teacher Center sponsored a professional development Day at the Brooklyn UFT office.
Communicating through a visual languageJun 29, 2009
PS 261 in Boerum Hill, Brooklyn, hosted an art and music fair to showcase their students’ creativity and talent.
Crossing Delancey ... to Eldridge StreetJun 29, 2009
More than 40 UFTers from the UFT Jewish Heritage Committee/Jewish Labor Committee Educators Chapter met for a guided tour of the newly restored Museum at Eldridge Street.
‘A’ celebrationJun 29, 2009
When the students and faculty at East Harlem’s PS 57, the James Weldon Johnson Leadership Academy, throw a party, they really throw a party.
26 honored for outstanding support to studentsJun 29, 2009
Twenty-six guidance counselors known for their ability to have a positive impact on their students’ lives and serve an integral role in their school communities were saluted at the 23rd annual Guidance Counselor Recognition Day.
21 teachers, Weingarten honoredJun 29, 2009
Education Update recognized 21 outstanding teachers and AFT/UFT President Randi Weingarten at its annual gala.
A fitting role modelJun 29, 2009
What’s in a name? In the case of Gordon Parks, it’s the legacy of a modern master and multiple genius.
Peanut butter-jelly timeJun 29, 2009
Around 250 educators, parents, friends and UFT staffers lined up for seconds at the annual all-you-can-eat scholarship fund-raiser held at Harriet Tubman Learning Center PS 145 in Harlem.
That's entertainmentJun 29, 2009
Educators and students took part in the fifth anniversary Jubilation Ceremony at PS 254, Queens, the Rosa Parks School, where students performed and entertained the staff, other students and parents.
Worldwide travelersJun 18, 2009
What do Uruguay, Dominica, Morocco, Turks and Caicos, Iceland, Scotland, Sri Lanka, Poland and Republic of Congo have in common? They all were represented in the sixth annual Multicultural Day at PS/IS 208, Queens.
‘A blast’ in the BronxJun 04, 2009
Some 25 newer teachers attended an afternoon of social networking at the UFT Bronx office to meet other teachers from the borough, get information from union leaders and find out how to get involved with the union.
‘Special’ honor for VPJun 04, 2009
UFT Vice President for Special Education Carmen Alvarez, who for many years has been an advocate for the rights of disabled children to receive a quality education and who has spearheaded many programs that serve special needs kids, was honored by the National Puerto Rican Day Parade committee.
Talking private-public partnershipsJun 04, 2009
Members of the David Rockefeller Fellows program came to UFT headquarters for a discussion on education policies and issues led by UFT President Randi Weingarten.
Dancing with the stars - photo galleryJun 04, 2009
Just desserts
Jun 04, 2009
The UFT Brooklyn borough office is not only a beehive of activities, but also a nest from which many traditions have taken flight over the years. One of them is called "Dinner With the President."
Is that an aardvark? - photo galleryJun 04, 2009
Students, teachers honored for posters
Jun 04, 2009
“Good speech is in bloom in May!” That’s what the girl in the illustrated poster is saying as she enjoys a spring day, surrounded by flowers symbolizing language, voice, hearing and fluency.
A hit in HarlemJun 04, 2009
UFT Teacher Center facilitator for literacy Roslyn Odinga may have organized the Poetry Slam held at PS 154 in Harlem, but she was in for a pleasant surprise: students had invited their parents!
Is that an aardvark?Jun 04, 2009
PS 186, a school for special needs children in the heart of the South Bronx, is the latest school to benefit from the Robin Hood Foundation’s mission of renovating and opening libraries in schools throughout the city.
Dancing with the starsJun 04, 2009
Nearly 300 parents, educators and students filled a Queens catering hall for the District 26 Scholarship Dinner Dance.
Celebrating their ownJun 04, 2009
Around 600 people — teachers, parents, UFT leaders, community leaders, administrators and elected officials — turned out for the annual Brooklyn District 21 Scholarship Fund Dinner Dance.
Information to keep students, staff safeJun 04, 2009
The UFT sponsored a gang awareness forum at the UFT Queens office. Represented at the forum were officials from the DOE/NYPD school safety division, the Community Affairs unit of the NYPD and gang presentation specialists at the Queens unit of NYPD School Safety.
Fiesta in QueensMay 28, 2009
Questions, answers and networking in Queens
May 21, 2009
A first-time reception for new Queens District 75 teachers at the UFT Queens borough office on May 7 provided a chance to network and share classroom experiences at the afternoon get-together.
UFT Cinco de Mayo CelebrationMay 21, 2009
Seeking to pull a mix of revelers from around the city to celebrate Cinco de Mayo this year, the UFT moved its annual party from the Bronx to its Queens office, making it the biggest and liveliest ever.
District 30 Parent Empowerment ForumMay 21, 2009
At the first District 30 Parent Empowerment Forum, parents spent the morning exploring ways to support, help and encourage their children at a series of six workshops led by Teacher Center specialists.
UFT chief operating officer visits ...May 21, 2009
UFT Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Michael Mulgrew visited IS 125 in Queens to thank the staff for their exceptional turnout at the March 5 rally at City Hall.
Weingarten helps honor ‘a great innovator’May 21, 2009
Lambda Legal honored Martha Stark, the first African-American and openly lesbian Commissioner of New York City’s Finance Department, who AFT/UFT President Randi Weingarten called “a great innovator and a trailblazer on so many fronts.”
Celebration timeMay 21, 2009
The party went on past 11 p.m. — on a school night, at that — at this year’s UFT District 24 Scholarship Dinner Dance held April 29 at Russo’s on the Bay in Queens.
Mancuso sent off in style - photo galleryMay 21, 2009
Celebration time - photo gallery
May 21, 2009
Hot topic
May 21, 2009
The temperature was on its way up to an unseasonable 90 degrees, but almost 200 dedicated UFT Speech Improvement Chapter members turned their backs on the offshore breezes at the beach for a Super Saturday in April staff development day.
Mancuso sent off in styleMay 21, 2009
Al Mancuso, the recently retired UFT District 75 representative who was the sole occupant of that position since its inception 20 years ago, was honored for his 36 years as an educator and activist.
Good for the art-vironmentMay 07, 2009
More than 100 students from better than 20 schools were honored for their environmental posters that were exhibited during April to highlight Earth Month.
How green is your school?May 07, 2009
New York City teachers can be the “change agents” needed to mobilize more New Yorkers to stop talking about recycling, and just do it!
Weingarten shows supportMay 07, 2009
AFT/UFT President Randi Weingarten cleared her schedule and returned to New York early for the announcement of the state’s Marriage Equality Bill, which would affect millions of citizens seeking same-sex unions.
Educating brain and bodyMay 07, 2009
Dance troupes from a dozen schools were represented at the UFT/New York City Dance Educators’ seventh annual Dance Festival held at UFT headquarters.
Treats not so sweet at Stella D’OroMay 07, 2009
With the strike at the Stella D’Oro Biscuit Co. entering its ninth month, scores of New York teachers joined the strikers’ picket lines outside the Bronx factory on April 27.
What teachers need to succeedMay 07, 2009
AFT/UFT President Randi Weingarten appeared with a panel of conservative heavy-hitters at the Manhattan Institute forum on teacher quality. Weingarten was the final speaker, bringing a welcome focus on what real teachers need to succeed.
Food for thoughtMay 07, 2009
Not many mothers on Staten Island — or in any borough, at that — can boast of a son who can cook kangaroo to perfection or whip up a mean piranha soup not to die for.
Educating brain and bodyMay 06, 2009
Flipping for gymnastics
Apr 23, 2009
Ken Achiron never imagined the success he’s have as coach of the Long Island City HS boys’ gymnastics team when he took over the program over 30 years ago.
Greek Independence Day celebrationApr 23, 2009
The UFT’s Hellenic American Educators Association, honoring Greek heritage and culture, celebrated Greek Independence Day at UFT headquarters.
Did they like green eggs and ham? Yes, they liked them, Sam-I-am!Apr 23, 2009
The annual “Green Eggs and Ham” book-and-breakfast is always a five-star event at Brooklyn’s PS 284, which has been hosting the Dr. Seuss fest for five years.
Francis Lewis HS PTA luncheon for teachersApr 23, 2009
The Parent-Teacher Association at Francis Lewis HS in Fresh Meadows, Queens, hosted a luncheon just for teachers the day after parent-teacher conferences to show appreciation for their hard work.
Brooklyn hitApr 23, 2009
Retired Teachers Chapter Corresponding Secretary Tom Murphy addressed members at the RTC’s Brooklyn Annual Meeting on March 23.
UFT per-diem substitute meetingApr 23, 2009
Substitute teachers interested in qualifying for full-time status and benefits, and need assistance to obtain New York State certification and a New York City teaching license, attended an informational session at UFT headquarters.
Tomorrow’s marketing leaders showcasedApr 23, 2009
The energy bouncing off the walls was generated by students from around the world honing their entrepreneurial skills at the 12th annual Virtual Enterprises International Trade Fair.
Did they like green eggs and ham? - photo galleryApr 23, 2009
Tomorrow's marketing leaders showcased
Apr 23, 2009
Victims not forgotten
Apr 23, 2009
Labor has not forgotten the 146 garment workers who died in the flames or leapt to their deaths in the Triangle Shirtwaist factory fire in 1911, the worst industrial disaster in the city’s history.
Feeling liberatedApr 23, 2009
Members of the UFT Jewish Heritage Committee, along with the Jewish Labor Committee and guests, celebrated a Passover Labor Seder at union headquarters.
Celebrating a victory from long agoApr 02, 2009
As UFTers and their children at the Bronx office Purim party learned, the story of beautiful Queen Esther of Persia defeating evil thousands of years ago comes with a celebration noted for its costumes, mask making, noisemaking, and joy.
That championship seasonApr 02, 2009
They were all elbows, knees and attitude last year, but watch out world, this year they’re Brooklyn’s charter school champion basketball league.
Bright ideaApr 02, 2009
Yes, you can save money and help the planet: MS 278 in Washington Heights brings compact fluorescent bulbs to their school and community.
Celebrating a victory from long ago - photo galleryApr 02, 2009
Post-race party
Apr 02, 2009
Members of the UFT Runners Committee joined the 10th annual Coogan’s Salsa, Blues, and Shamrocks 5k run on March 1st.
Making reading irresistibleApr 01, 2009
New libraries, with works of art that beckon, and inviting architecture, open at PS 147 in Brooklyn, PS 81 in Queens and PS 195, 196 and 197 in the Bronx.
Mayoral control discussed at FordhamApr 01, 2009
UFT Vice President Michael Mulgrew sat on a panel called, “The Future of New York City Schools – Did Mayoral Control Work?” and discussed the topic with the Deputy Mayor, Deputy Chancellor, and others. Read more....
Making beautiful music togetherMar 19, 2009
Collaboration hit a new high note when the Glee Club of PS 139 in Rego Park, Queens, shared a performance with the choir and orchestra of Visitation HS from St. Paul, Minn.
‘Deluxe’ modelMar 19, 2009
More than 1,000 K-5 students at PS 47 in the Bronx had been without a library for years, but now they finally have one that librarian Joanne Davis calls “deluxe.”
A ‘World’s Fair of Education’Mar 19, 2009
The third annual PBS Celebration of Teaching and Learning, of which the UFT and NYSUT are prime sponsors, was held this year at the New York Hilton Hotel on March 7.
Read all about it: Cool ‘Cat’ comes to townMar 19, 2009
UFT members and students at two Brooklyn schools celebrated the 11th annual National Education Association’s “Read Across America Day.”
Weingarten speaks at breakfast event for governorMar 19, 2009
“Women for Paterson” and First Lady Michelle Paige Paterson hosted a breakfast event for Gov. David Paterson at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City. UFT President Randi Weingarten introduced the governor.
A lesson in gang awarenessMar 19, 2009
More than 250 paraprofessional representatives turned out for a packed meeting at UFT headquarters where they were provided with a special workshop on gang awareness.
Computation competitionMar 19, 2009
PS 87, Queens, students, proudly serving as the USA Ambassador School for World Math Day, competed with more than 1.5 million children from 226 countries worldwide.
Raising money, achievementMar 19, 2009
Shall we dance, celebrate our schools and raise money for scholarships? More than 250 people from Brooklyn District 20 said yes and showed up dressed to the nines for an evening of disco, dining and donations.
Painting partyMar 19, 2009
As winners in a citywide mural contest for middle schools, the 7th-grade elective art students at IS 227 in Queens were invited to join noted marine artist Wyland — he only uses one name — in painting another mural at the Jacob Javits Center in Manhattan.
Something worth singing aboutMar 19, 2009
Students at IS 293 in Manhattan, the City College Academy for the Arts, received a treat when the VH1 Save the Music Foundation paid a visit with two well-known stars in tow.
Painting party - photo galleryMar 19, 2009
Read all about it: Cool 'Cat' comes to town - photo gallery
Mar 19, 2009
African-American culture, history celebrated
Mar 06, 2009
Black History Month is usually observed with a party every year at Bayside HS. But this year’s event was different, and far grander in ambition and execution.
We are the champions ... again!Mar 05, 2009
One more time! For the second year in a row, the chess team at IS 228, the David Boody Middle School for Magnet Studies in Gravesend, Brooklyn, has won the Novice title at the Greater New York Junior High Chess Championship.
Yes, We DidMar 05, 2009
The election of the country’s first black president added even more wattage to the usual high-energy UFT African Heritage Committee’s dinner dance held annually during Black History Month.
Lions and dragons and oxen, oh my!Mar 05, 2009
The Golden Lion Dance Troupe was among the highlights of the Feb. 6 Lunar New Year banquet held at Chinatown’s Grand Harmony Restaurant; an eight-course dinner and a raffle rounded out the 2009 celebration for the Year of the Ox.
Comparing Obama to FDRMar 05, 2009
Three hundred participants spent a busy day at workshops, panels, exhibits and award ceremonies, all part of the 49th annual Greater Metropolitan New York Social Studies Conference.
Opening the door to the joy of readingFeb 19, 2009
No matter how grey, cold and wintry it gets outside, staff and students from pre-K to 5th grade at PS 45 in Brooklyn now have a vibrantly colorful new library to make them think of spring.
New computers, workspace for Brooklyn schoolFeb 19, 2009
Educators at Automotive HS in Brooklyn celebrated the opening of a renovated UFT Teacher Center.
Dedicated to lives of workers, communitiesFeb 19, 2009
Some two dozen UFT activists were sworn in as delegates to the New York City Central Labor Council by its president, Jack Ahern, on Jan. 15 at Teamsters Local 237 headquarters in Manhattan.
Celebration of the centuryFeb 19, 2009
When PS 153 in Brooklyn first opened its doors 100 years ago, the world was a very different place.
UFT school safety ‘Meet and Greet’Feb 19, 2009
The UFT School Safety Department hosted a “Meet and Greet” at the union’s Manhattan headquarters to have UFT staff from the five boroughs get together and talk informally with the NYPD School Safety personnel.
Laboratory specialists trainingFeb 19, 2009
UFT laboratory specialists watched a video about fire safety in the schools and how to deal with fire emergencies at their annual safety conference.
UFT officers visit PS 346 in BrooklynFeb 19, 2009
UFT President Randi Weingarten visited the staff of PS 346 in Brooklyn's Starrett City to call attention to the devastating impact that the failing economy could have on state and city educational funding.
School Secretaries Winter SeminarFeb 19, 2009
More than 150 school secretaries listened carefully as Chapter Leader Jackie Ervolina explained how they can be valuable UFT assets by encouraging others in their schools to participate in upcoming union actions against budget cuts.
Empowering SLT membersFeb 05, 2009
Many parents and teachers are not fully aware of the power they have to influence the vision of their school, which is what UFT Special Representative Amy Arundell was hoping to convey to the large assembly of parents and teachers at the Brooklyn UFT Parent Outreach Committee meeting. VP column The closing of Middle School 399
Going back in timeFeb 05, 2009
Thanks to construction workers, educators and historians, students at PS 3 in Manhattan are now privy to what life was like in 1917, when someone buried a copper box filled with dinner programs, graduation medals and even a copy of the school song in the wall of the building’s auditorium.
Polite send-offFeb 05, 2009
Friends, family and colleagues threw a party in the Bronx to honor Claudia Polite, who retired as the UFT District 9 representative.
Good skatesFeb 05, 2009
When it comes to the union’s New Teachers Committee, ice skating in Manhattan’s Bryant Park is par for the course in a year of fun-packed activities that bring people together.
Preparing for the worstFeb 05, 2009
Lutheran Medical Center recently teamed up with the UFT Federation of Nurses to offer a series of training courses to employees of the hospital, located in a highly industrial area of southwest Brooklyn, near highways used for trucking dangerous chemicals to a nearby city wastewater treatment plant.
Enjoying the Grapes of Math ... and more!Feb 05, 2009
The opening ceremony of the Library and Media Center at PS 96, the Bronx, featured all the books you could eat. Sort of.
These lessons are in focusFeb 05, 2009
Whether haunting, playful, colorful or stark, the photos at the art exhibit at Truman HS featured the best work of students in Raphael Lopez’s photography course.
Hailing the ChiefFeb 05, 2009
Brooklyn was in the house during President Obama’s inauguration, as the Brooklyn Steppers, a marching band that draws students from Bedford-Stuyvesant and surrounding neighborhoods, made their way proudly down Pennsylvania Avenue for the Inauguration Day.
Chapter leaders get lesson in spendingFeb 05, 2009
Close to 200 Manhattan chapter leaders met at the UFT Manhattan borough office to master the dollars and sense of school budgets.
These lessons are in focus - photo galleryFeb 05, 2009
Strengthening the partnership
Jan 22, 2009
Parents in Brooklyn’s IS 228 school community now have a welcoming, designated meeting place where they can address their concerns about their children’s education.
A gift of reading — and lots more!Jan 22, 2009
“It is unbelievable to see something of this magnitude in the public schools,” said Kathy Klein, chapter leader of Brooklyn’s PS 216. But everyone at this neighborhood public school can believe it whenever they walk down the hall: the fabulous, beautifully designed new library of their dreams.
Bodden, Plotkin, Danis honoredJan 22, 2009
The UFT’s Hispanic Affairs Committee celebrated educators whose achievements have significantly improved students’ lives, especially English Language Learners, at its annual Heritage Celebration and Awards Gala.
Reformato given fond send-offJan 22, 2009
Guidance Counselors Chapter Leader Angela Reformato, who helped mold young lives at Brooklyn’s Utrecht HS for 36 years before announcing her retirement this year, was given a fitting sendoff.
Former teacher rememberedJan 22, 2009
UFT staffers and administrators and the family members of a former special education teacher celebrated the installation of a new sign at PS 811, Brooklyn.
PS 244, Queens ribbon-cuttingJan 22, 2009
The school was on the capital plan for 10 years before opening this fall, and attendees at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for PS 244 in Queens, The Active Learning Elementary School (TALES) in downtown Flushing, say the long wait was worth it.
A gift of reading — and lots more! - photo galleryJan 22, 2009
Strengthening the partnership - photo gallery
Jan 22, 2009
Children’s Dental Health Initiative Program
Jan 22, 2009
Third- and 4th-grade public school students from all the boroughs received a first-hand lesson from the pros on how to properly brush their teeth and keep them strong and healthy at a UFT co-sponsored event.
IS 228, Brooklyn, Parent Engagement Center openingJan 22, 2009
Parents in Brooklyn’s IS 228 school community now have a welcoming, designated meeting place where they can address their concerns about their children’s education.
Bodden, Plotkin, Danis honored - photo galleryJan 21, 2009
SRPs celebrated
Dec 11, 2008
The union celebrated the work of school-related professionals (SRPs) with seven- and eight-course dinners and a night of partying among the stars — those being the paras and secretaries.
SRPs celebrated - photo galleryDec 11, 2008
Pajama party - photo gallery
Dec 11, 2008
Pajama party
Dec 11, 2008
They were in their pajamas and ready for a bedtime story. But this time it wasn’t mommy or daddy reading to them — it was the author herself.
A group effortDec 11, 2008
When the Bensonhurst West End Community Council leaders informed Judy Gerowitz that she was going to be honored with its Educator of the Year Award, the UFT Brooklyn District 21 representative agreed to accept under one condition.
DA Morgenthau honoredDec 11, 2008
Robert M. Morgenthau, Manhattan district attorney, was honored by the UFT Jewish Heritage Committee and the Jewish Labor Committee’s Educators Chapter at a fund-raiser for the JLC’s Holocaust Education Program.
All the world’s a lessonDec 11, 2008
They had the whole world in their hands — and on computer screens and giant wall maps — during Geography Awareness Week at the Academy of Urban Planning HS in Brooklyn.
Panel discusses ‘retirement crisis’Dec 11, 2008
The financial meltdown has turned the lives of retirees and near-retirees upside down as they watch their 401(k) plan savings erode. That was the troubling starting point for a panel on “The End of Retirement With Dignity?” sponsored by the Metro New York Labor Communicators Council.
Election Day professional development workshopsNov 20, 2008
The UFT sponsored a school safety workshop for chapter leaders at the union’s Manhattan headquarters on Nov. 4.
Green school is a goNov 20, 2008
Parents along with community and political leaders joined students and staff in a ceremony celebrating the official opening of the 21st Century Academy for Community Leadership — PS/IS 210, a pre-K–8 dual language school in Manhattan.
Zoo-per dooper!Nov 20, 2008
Parents at PS 68 in Queens hired a petting zoo from Long Island on Oct. 29 as part of a pre-Halloween exercise designed to make learning fun.
Breaking breadNov 20, 2008
After the staff at PS 121 in Queens was displaced due to an Oct. 18 fire, the staff at PS 307 held a luncheon for them.
Zoo-per dooper! - photo galleryNov 20, 2008
Speaking of learning
Nov 20, 2008
“New York City Celebrates 2008, International Year of Languages” was the global theme of this year’s all-day professional conference for secondary language teachers.
Annual NTCATA Conference: Oh Yoko!Nov 06, 2008
It was celebrity time at the 28th annual New York City Art Teachers Association Conference where Yoko Ono was the keynote speaker and was honored as artist of the year.
Teaming up for studentsNov 06, 2008
More than 250 Chinese-speaking parents of students in Queens participated in a UFT-sponsored conference where they could access tools to help their kids succeed in school.
You can count on them!Nov 06, 2008
“Hear hear” to the chapter leaders and delegates who attended every UFT Delegate Assembly last year.
Eadie Shanker: Save our landmarkNov 06, 2008
Retired teacher Eadie Shanker still isn’t retiring. Just as she fought as a founder of the UFT in the late 1950s to keep the public in public education, she’s now involved in a major effort to keep one city park open and free for the public.
'Work Shouldn't Hurt'Nov 06, 2008
“Ergonomics: Work Shouldn’t Hurt! Designing the Job to Fit You” was the topic of the UFT Committee for Members Who are Capably Disabled meeting.
Ghoul daysNov 06, 2008
Halloween was a night of magical fun for the UFT Players and ghosts (that is, guests) to become all sorts of delightful characters from life and literature.
Learning the warning signsNov 06, 2008
“Reaching and Teaching Students with Learning Disabilities,” a conference just for paraprofessionals sponsored by the UFT Teacher Center, covered the latest methods for helping students with learning disabilities succeed.
Mock election a lesson in the processNov 06, 2008
Instead of just talking about the election, students at Validus Preparatory Academy in the South Bronx jumped in and got involved.
Speech therapists dial for changeNov 06, 2008
More than 40 members of the UFT Speech Therapists chapter stayed over from their enlarged executive board meeting to do union get-out-the-vote phonebanking to UFT members for Barack Obama and the entire slate of union-endorsed candidates.
Preparing for conferencesNov 06, 2008
The latest workshop from the UFT Teacher Center’s “Road to Success: Especially for New Teachers” series dealt with communicating successfully at parent-teacher conferences, which are continuing this month at schools.
Brooklyn school COPEs wellNov 06, 2008
Yes, 100 percent. That’s what teachers and staff at Sheepshead Bay’s PS 206 scored in enrolling every one of the Brooklyn school’s 132 members in UFT’s Committee on Political Education — better known as COPE.
New teacher receptions wrap upOct 23, 2008
The final receptions for new teachers took place in October throughout the five boroughs.
Pennsylvania-bound to boost Obama-BidenOct 23, 2008
100 attend debate party
Oct 23, 2008
Nearly 100 UFT members and staff got together to watch the second debate between presidential candidates Sen. John McCain and Sen. Barack Obama on at the union’s Manhattan headquarters.
UFTers honoredOct 23, 2008
Two UFT members — one a union staff person and the other a high school coach — were honored recently by the Center for the Women of New York.
The fantastic journeyOct 23, 2008
Students at Manhattan’s IS 528 have joined a growing number of kids across the country learning about muscular dystrophy — the disorder that causes progressive muscle weakness in children — through the exploits of a 14-year-old from Athens, Ga., who suffers from it.
Being prepared for emergenciesOct 23, 2008
Since hospital nurses are often designated first responders in health and safety emergencies, and visiting nurses are the eyes and ears who identify and respond to public health threats in the community, the Federation of Nurses/UFT held the first in a series of two-day health and safety training sessions.
New teacher receptions wrap up photo galleryOct 22, 2008
The fantastic journey - photo gallery
Oct 22, 2008
UFTers meet the challenge
Oct 09, 2008
To get more New Yorkers involved in volunteering for the United Way, coordinators led a march of some 3,000 walkers — including many UFTers — across the Brooklyn Bridge one morning recently.
‘Cooperation beats conflict’Oct 09, 2008
“It doesn’t have to be war,” UFT President Randi Weingarten told aspiring school heads and recently appointed principals who attended a DOE training.
Almost time to step up against breast cancerOct 09, 2008
Thousands of UFT members are getting ready for the Making Strides march in the battle against breast cancer on Sunday, Oct. 19.
Reaching out to the communityOct 09, 2008
Approximately 70 Korean-speaking parents, many with children in tow, flocked to JHS 189 in Flushing for an evening of workshops and networking — compliments of the UFT Queens borough office.
Report: Big potential for new 'green jobsOct 09, 2008
Greenhouse gases and the global warming are a threat to the planet’s ecosystem, but they’re also an opportunity for the world’s economies to create “green” industries, products, services and jobs that are plentiful and environmentally friendly.
Preparing its reportOct 09, 2008
Three dozen members of the UFT School Governance Task Force met to discuss and fine-tune its recommendations. The school governance law expires on June 30, 2009.
UFT hosts kickoff event for congressional hopeful McMahonOct 09, 2008
The UFT Staten Island borough office hosted a kickoff door-knocking event for City Councilman Michael McMahon, who is running to fill the open seat of retiring Congressman Vito Fossella.
Marching 'to protect the future'Sep 25, 2008
Concerns about the economic squeeze on the middle class dominated Labor Day parade proclamations, with New York City Central Labor Council President Gary LaBarbera declaring, "We want to protect the future for those struggling to pay for their homes, those who can't afford to send their kids to college and for the right of working people to join a union."
They fought the cutsSep 25, 2008
When the going gets tough, the tough get going." The united teachers, parents and administrators of PS 198 in East Flatbush took that advice to the next level in protesting budget cuts that could cost the school six classroom positions, including teachers and paraprofessionals, as well as its prized art program.
Unheralded leaders sharpen their skillsSep 25, 2008
The School Secretaries Chapter held its Summer Institute to discuss solutions to common problems, explain the union's role in protecting workers' rights and accustom the new secretaries to the folkways and byways of the Department of Education.
Chemical response training: Preparing for emergenciesSep 25, 2008
The UFT and AFT conducted the eighth annual Secondary School Chemical Response Training Course at the union's Manhattan headquarters.
West Indian Day Parade: UFTers march to Caribbean beatSep 25, 2008
Revelers danced to the sounds of Caribbean music pumped from the UFT float in the West Indian Day Parade, as they angled to catch bandanas and noisemakers being thrown by union volunteers.
Harlem Week Festival: Summer FunSep 25, 2008
The UFT booth at the annual Harlem Week festival is always one of the biggest and most popular.
Marching 'to protect the future' - Photo GallerySep 25, 2008
Summer fun - Photo Gallery
Sep 25, 2008
Playing bocce
Sep 13, 2008
The UFT Italian American Committee, the UFT’s Chapter of the Italian American Labor Council, held its first bocce tournament.
Events for special educatorsSep 13, 2008
June was a busy month for special education teachers, who not only finished up a grueling school year but attended a Special Education Committee meeting at UFT headquarters and also attended Chapter 408 training at the UFT’s Bronx borough office.
Golden: Teachers ruleSep 12, 2008
State Sen. Marty Golden once again sponsored a celebratory event to honor teachers in District 20 who represent by their own example the highest standard of professional devotion and practice.
Food and fundsSep 12, 2008
Everything from seasoned French fries to lasagna to corn on the cob was on the menu at an AFT Black Caucus scholarship fund-raiser, when the Bronx UFT office was turned into the hottest restaurant in town.
‘Living’ rightSep 12, 2008
Although it was complete with literati from Martha Stewart Living, all abuzz with excitement for a slick, new 48-page lifestyles publication, it was not your average magazine launch. The editors, writers, photographers and layout artists were not the usual crowd of Gotham pros but a crew of students and their teacher who worked long and hard to produce the first issue of McKinney Living magazine.
High, hard oneSep 12, 2008
UFT President Randi Weingarten, known for her 100-mph fastball across the negotiating table, walked toward of the mound before the start of the Brooklyn Cyclones game at KeySpan Park on June 23. But it was not to lob the first pitch as she had done at a game last year.
Technically speaking, it was a fine yearSep 12, 2008
Career and Technical Education teachers finished another successful year with a get-together at a Manhattan restaurant.
PIP celebrationSep 12, 2008
Success stories were on the menu at the Peer Intervention Program’s celebratory dinner. “What our end-of-the-year event really celebrates are the accomplishments that PIP’s participating teachers and guidance counselors have made with their intervenors,” said Lynne-Ann Kilroy, coordinator of the nationally renowned peer assistance program for educators.
UFT Runners in Corporate Challege FinalsSep 12, 2008
The UFT Runners Committee, among the union’s most active and enthusiastic groups, fared very well in the 32nd annual JPMorgan Chase Corporate Challenge at Central Park on June 18. The UFT men’s team finished first and fifth in the 3.5-mile race, while the women’s team placed third and the coed team took seventh.
No continental divide hereSep 12, 2008
To hear a certain group of teacher unionists voice their concerns, you’d think they were your New York City colleagues. But these educators were hardly from the school down the street or in the borough next door. The name of their union is the Education Labour Relations Council and the DOE they were referring to is 8,000 miles away in South Africa.
District 21 honorsSep 12, 2008
Unions help working families fulfill their dreams in many different ways. For 25 years in Brooklyn’s District 21, the UFT has sponsored a dinner dance to raise funds for scholarships for top graduates of elementary and middle schools in the district.
UFT phone banks activeSep 12, 2008
The phone banks at the UFT’s Manhattan headquarters were buzzing on Sept. 3 on behalf of union-endorsed candidates who faced a challenge in the Sept. 9 primary.
Embracing the communityAug 07, 2008
Wearing green and white, everyone in the IS 187, Brooklyn, community participated in the school's fifth annual Spring Festival.
Celebrating Audrey Chasen's lifeAug 07, 2008
The Audrey Chasen Dinner Dance is an annual end-of-term event named in memory of a devoted teacher trainer who was shot and killed while returning from a professional development activity.
ATRs meetAug 07, 2008
Members in the city’s Absent Teacher Reserve pool were assured that the job security that all members enjoy is in no way lessened or threatened by their status as ATRs.
Blackboard Award winnersAug 07, 2008
A dozen New York City public school educators got a well-deserved spot in the limelight when they were honored at the 2008 Blackboard Awards for Teachers ceremony.
Favorable readingAug 07, 2008
Everyone in the UFT District 27 parent book clubs put down their favorite read for a while to get together and talk books at Carosellos’s restaurant in Howard Beach.
Title townAug 07, 2008
The George Washington HS Trojans and Morris HS Bulldogs captured the PSAL’s A and B baseball championships, respectively, at the soon-to-be-dismantled Shea Stadium.
Amazing feet!Aug 07, 2008
UFT members and their friends and families put on their dancing shoes to waltz, mambo and foxtrot the night away at a Bronx office fund-raiser for victims of Hurricane Katrina.
Author!Aug 07, 2008
At the May Parlor Series UFT Vice President for Elementary Schools Michelle Bodden shared how she took her book idea and got it published.
A new centenarianJun 05, 2008
PS 164, Brooklyn, threw itself a birthday party on May 22 to celebrate the 100 years it has been serving the families of Borough Park.
Awards ceremonyJun 05, 2008
The 13th annual New York State Education Department Awards ceremony honored schools and individuals whose achievements exemplify the theme of “Challenges and Possibilities: Commitment to Excellence for All Students.”
Ready for takeoffJun 05, 2008
Diane Weisen is doin’ the moonwalk. “Not in the Michael Jackson sense, but sort of in the Neil Armstrong sense,” the Queens teacher said, referring to the first astronaut to set foot on the moon. Weisen’s moonwalk, however, will be one giant boon for girlkind and boykind at PS 120 in Flushing.
Takedowns taking offJun 05, 2008
Middle school wrestling, long a very popular sport in many regions and school systems nationwide, is enjoying a major growth spurt in New York City.
Memorial Day saluteJun 05, 2008
The UFT Veterans Committee placed a Memorial Day commemorative wreath at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, saluting for the fifth consecutive year — in a poignant and non-political ceremony — soldiers who have over many generations made the supreme sacrifice.
Times reporter’s new book on labor ‘required reading’Jun 05, 2008
New York Times labor reporter Steven Greenhouse spoke to UFT members and staff on May 28 about his newly published book “The Big Squeeze: Tough Times for the American Worker.”
Well-litJun 05, 2008
The third annual Literacy Night at PS 289 brought 140 families — moms, dads and kids — to the Brooklyn school for an evening of entertainment, storytelling, good food and a chance to collaborate on a family autobiography.
Awards in District 26Jun 05, 2008
The District 26 Parent-Teacher Alliance held its second annual scholarship dinner dance in Queens. The theme was “Celebrating the Past, Present and Future.”
Showing her medalJun 05, 2008
UFT President Randi Weingarten accepted the Teachers College Medal for Distinguished Service at the Master’s Convocation.
Speech celebrationsJun 05, 2008
May was Better Hearing and Speech Month so there was a lot going on for the UFT Speech Improvement Chapter.
Curtain upMay 22, 2008
The critics raved that the Edward R. Murrow HS student production of “The Producers” puts another star in their roster of smash-hit musicals.
BINGO!May 22, 2008
New teachers gathered at the UFT Staten Island borough office on May 1 to compete in a Bingo tournament.
Good sportsMay 22, 2008
Nearly 400 UFT members attended the opening night of the Sports Museum of America, just down the street from UFT headquarters in lower Manhattan.
Science teachers honoredMay 22, 2008
Six New York City public school science educators were honored by the Siemens Foundation at the annual Science Teacher Awards.
In the ‘Groove’May 22, 2008
The New York Knicks Groove Truck — a basketball clinic on wheels offering skill competitions, free-throw and 3-point shooting contests, video game tournaments and cool Knicks prizes — rolled into Bensonhurst’s PS 101 as a reward for the school’s active and highly successful six-month participation in the Read to Achieve Program.
A fighter retiresMay 22, 2008
Alice Holloway, who for many years as the District 17 representative was always a shark when it came to protecting members’ rights, was honored at a retirement party.
Discussing cancer treatmentMay 22, 2008
On a chilly Friday night earlier this month, as most people headed home, close to 100 women, their friends and advocates made their way into UFT headquarters to hear from one of the stars of cancer research.
Helping others benefitMay 08, 2008
Longtime UFT member Josie Levine uses much of her free time helping to organize teachers in Texas and New Mexico as part of an AFT program.
Honors in QueensMay 08, 2008
Two kids got nice fat savings bonds, UFT Queens Borough Representative Rona Freiser was toasted by her colleagues and nearly 500 members of the District 24 family celebrated the night away at Russo’s in Howard Beach on April 17.
Political action group honors AFT’s McElroyMay 08, 2008
AFT President Ed McElroy was honored by the New York Chapter of Americans for Democratic Action at its 2008 Roosevelt Day Dinner on April 8.
Providers’ picketing gets resultsMay 08, 2008
Home child care providers, protesting another round of late paychecks, picketed on April 18 in front of East Bronx Day Care, the provider network responsible for paying them.
A good readApr 24, 2008
More than 30 guest readers participated in PS 254’s fourth annual Community Read Aloud held at the Queens.
Observing PassoverApr 24, 2008
Eighty UFT members participated in a Passover seder at the union’s Brooklyn office in mid-April.
Learning to stay safeApr 24, 2008
The UFT conducted a five-day grant-funded course on mold assessment and remediation, bloodborne pathogens and respiratory protection for several dozen staff and students at Alfred E. Smith HS.
Sun shines at Dial-A-TeacherApr 24, 2008
Mr. G the weatherman made another appearance at the UFT on April 8, this time to support Dial-A-Teacher, the UFT’s homework helpline.
Learning to avoid violenceApr 24, 2008
The UFT Elementary Charter School, in observance of Violence Prevention Week, hosted a special interactive assembly program at which the New York City Police Department Community Outreach Unit made a presentation to students on strategies for avoiding potentially violent situations.
Remembering the Triangle Waist Company fireApr 24, 2008
It’s been 97 years since the Triangle Waist Company fire, but the smoke has yet to clear.
We are familyApr 24, 2008
More than 100 people of all ages and faiths came together for the UFT Jewish Heritage Committee’s first Family Purim.
Union contributions discussedApr 24, 2008
The UFT hosted a forum sponsored by the Education and Labor Collaborative at the union’s Manhattan headquarters.
Hispanic Federation honors WeingartenApr 24, 2008
The Hispanic Federation, one of New York’s foremost civic and community groups, honored UFT President Randi Weingarten at its annual gala at the Waldorf-Astoria hotel in Manhattan.
Pride in CTEApr 24, 2008
Career and Technical Education high schools around the city celebrated CTE month in February. Schools staged or took part in various events and programs to showcase the impact that CTE programs have had on students and the work force.
Budding artistApr 10, 2008
Art teacher Liza Wax is always looking for ways to motivate her young students.
Opa!Apr 10, 2008
The UFT’s Hellenic American Educators Association, honoring Greek heritage and culture, celebrated Greek Independence Day with music, dance instruction and a delectable buffet supper.
Happy anniversary!Apr 10, 2008
There was champagne and cake to celebrate the 17th anniversary of the UFT Committee for Members Who are Capably Disabled.
Breast cancer treatment conferenceApr 10, 2008
More than 100 UFTers came with questions to a seminar outlining new treatments for early-stage and metastatic breast cancer.
Daring to be differentApr 10, 2008
Georgia Miller-McCorkle, who teaches early childhood education at PS 140 at 518, Brooklyn, was one of 17 recipients of the “Women Who Dare To Be Different Award."
They’ve got the beatApr 10, 2008
Brian Doherty is seven years into his second life.
Rhyme and reasonApr 10, 2008
June, moon and daffodils were not on the minds of the Bronx poets starring in the second annual Poetry Jam at the UFT Bronx borough office.
Knitting prettyApr 10, 2008
Paraprofessional Donna DeSilva got the idea for a knitting project when she learned about the charitable organization Newborns in Need while doing research for a course she was taking.
Dance RevolutionApr 10, 2008
Aubrey Lynch, associate producer of “The Lion King” and former principal dancer for Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, shared his experiences performing and helping to create the hit musical at a workshop for PS 94, Manhattan, students.
Eliminating poverty summitMar 27, 2008
UFT President Randi Weingarten joined some 150 metropolitan-area labor, community, non-profit and political leaders at the Summit on Eliminating Poverty Among the Working Poor.
Super SaturdayMar 27, 2008
There was a full house at the UFT Brooklyn Borough office on March 1 as 200 paraprofessionals moved from workshop to workshop getting up-to-date information on a host of topics.
Counselor conference offers ways to cope while helping kidsMar 27, 2008
It was a kickoff to National Guidance Counselors Week and a thank you from the UFT to the educators who do one of the toughest jobs in the school system.
A learning galaMar 27, 2008
If there’s any question about how eager educators are to expand their educational horizons, consider that 7,000 people attended the third annual Teaching and Learning Celebration.
Lunar New Year celebrationMar 27, 2008
More than 500 people, mostly UFTers but also students, principals and members of other unions joined the UFT Lunar New Year banquet in Chinatown.
Poster boyMar 13, 2008
The UFT Mezzanine Gallery was launched on Feb. 28 with 27 full-color lithographed posters created by Thomas F. Naegele, a retired art teacher and UFT member.
‘Social’ eventMar 13, 2008
More than 300 elementary and secondary school teachers, supervisors, curriculum specialists and university educators attended the 48th annual Greater Metropolitan New York Social Studies Conference.
Saturday for secretariesFeb 28, 2008
One hundred and twenty school secretaries spent the first Saturday of the new year, Jan. 5, at their 15th annual winter seminar.
Celebration time in District 20Feb 28, 2008
“Despite all the changes we’ve gone through at the hands of the school system’s reorganization, somehow we kept our community intact,” said UFT Brooklyn District 20 Representative Ellen Driesen.
Protest for safetyFeb 28, 2008
Angered that Chapter Leader Taneeka Jones was assaulted and hospitalized for the second time in January and the student who assaulted her was back in the classroom the next day, the entire staff of PS/MS 42, Queens, took to the streets.
Prom nightFeb 28, 2008
Aisha Campbell’s dream came true. The valedictorian of the Mathematics, Science Research and Technology HS January graduating class is terminally ill, but she was able to dance the night away at a winter prom specially arranged for her.
Look, up in the sky ...Feb 28, 2008
Did you know that chickens can fly? Well they can — not like eagles and robins, but well enough to make it into a tree.
Per diem info sessionFeb 28, 2008
Per diem teachers had a lot to discuss at their Dec. 12 general meeting at UFT headquarters.
LoungingFeb 28, 2008
For a close-knit staff that loves their school, among the highest-performing in the city, Valentine’s Day provided the perfect theme to celebrate solidarity and dedicate a refurbished teachers’ lounge at PS 188, Queens.
Not on the runFeb 28, 2008
Some of New York’s brightest are also New York’s fastest. The UFT Runners has been a team now for more than 20 years — well, running.
Lab trainingFeb 28, 2008
The annual laboratory specialists training was held at the UFT office in Brooklyn from Jan. 22 to 25.
Reaching out to parentsFeb 14, 2008
Brooklyn parents of public school students attended two workshops in December at the UFT borough office. The meetings were organized by UFT Parent Outreach Coordinator Betty Zohar, who said she was pleased with the turnout and the enthusiasm in the room.
Huge StridesFeb 14, 2008
How does a one-year 500 percent jump in donations to the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides event impress you? Thanks to team leader Elizabeth Calise and the close-knit family of students, parents, UFT staff and administrators at Brooklyn’s Mark Twain IS 239, that leap amounted to more than $20,000 this year.
Graduation dayFeb 14, 2008
In caps and gowns, 30 of the city’s speech teachers — with new master’s degrees in communication disorders — were honored at a graduation ceremony held at the UFT’s Manhattan headquarters on Jan. 17. It was good news for the city’s schoolchildren and for these devoted teachers, who became students while maintaining their daily workload.
It's easy being greenFeb 14, 2008
One of the first Green Schools in the state opened this year in Washington Heights, in the new home of PS/IS 210, Manhattan, which moved from its old location at Broadway and W. 173 Street to West 152 St. and Amsterdam Avenue.
The union's alive ...Feb 14, 2008
UFT headquarters was filled with some mighty sweet sounds when more than 80 music teachers raised their voices in song at a choral workshop on Nov. 17. John Jacobson of the Hal Leonard Corporation led the New York City Music Teachers Association/UFT morning workshop providing ideas to enhance choral performances and packets of music for all grade levels in a variety of styles.
Art-time workFeb 14, 2008
The New York City Art Teachers Association conference is always colorful, creative, bustling and interactive and this year was no exception. The theme of the daylong 27th annual event on Oct. 27 at Fiorello LaGuardia HS was The Dynamics of Art Education and included such wide-ranging workshops as Tlingt Totem Poles, Sumi-E Oriental Brush Painting and Expressive Hats as a Springboard for Art Making.
Time to 'raise all boats'Feb 14, 2008
Market rate — the rate set by the state to pay the newly organized UFT home child care providers who care for subsidized children for 10 to 11 hours a day — has finally gone up. Unfortunately, providers haven’t received the raise because the city claims it has no money.
School-related recognitionFeb 14, 2008
The third Tuesday of each November has now officially been declared School-Related Professionals Recognition Day. The special day was added to the state calendar to coincide with American Education Week and was signed into law by Gov. Eliot Spitzer.
What schools needFeb 14, 2008
Invited to speak about the union’s position on the current state of the city’s schools at a breakfast meeting with business leaders, UFT President Randi Weingarten stressed the need to attract and retain good teachers and urged that schools that work be left alone while focusing on helping struggling schools and, most important, the urgency of lowering class size.
Grants, awards & freebies - Jan. 17, 2008Jan 17, 2008
A tempting "Beveridge" tops the list of awards in this week's column.
Semper fiJan 17, 2008
Frank Volpicella, former UFT vice president for academic high schools, was honored in November at a retirement bash attended by hundreds of his colleagues.
Gauthier Institute for Law and Public PolicyJan 17, 2008
It was a very upbeat morning for UFT President Randi Weingarten’s visit to Gauthier Institute for Law and Public Policy on Oct. 18, coming on the heels of the announced win for 55/25 retirement.
Better watch out!Jan 17, 2008
Santa was not at all happy to hear the grievances of home child care providers who spoke of their problems with bouncing checks, unpaid back pay, incorrect rate of pay, agency loss of their paperwork and the failure of some networks to provide services despite a monthly charge of $17.
Working on a contractJan 17, 2008
Four hundred UFT home child care providers attended meetings in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Rockaway and Staten Island during two weeks in December to work on negotiation strategies for their first contract.
Honoring those who servedJan 17, 2008
The UFT Veterans Committee, led by Chair John Garvey, joined thousands of active-duty military, veterans of all eras, and grateful citizens of all heritages in New York’s annual Veterans Day Parade on Nov. 11.
Special visitJan 17, 2008
Santa did it again! For well over 15 years neither rain nor snow nor anything else has kept Santa from his annual visit to PS 107 in Queens.
The Snow BowlJan 17, 2008
Curtis HS football coach Fred Olivieri doesn’t have a snow playbook. So when his team trailed Canarsie HS 8-6 at halftime of the Public Schools Athletic League city championship football game on Dec. 2 on Midwood HS’s snow-covered Astroturf field, he made a decision.
In a teacher's memoryJan 17, 2008
Roni Futoran, a teacher at PS 200 in Queens, went out to lunch one Friday in December 2006 but never came back.
To test or not to test ...Jan 17, 2008
The role and design of tests and assessment mandates, including how they are developed and impact day-to-day instruction, was the theme of an Oct. 25 public forum sponsored by Community District 26.
Fun for a good causeJan 17, 2008
The fifth annual Hispanic Affairs Gala at the UFT Bronx office on Nov. 29 was an evening with everything for the close to 300 guests who attended.
Holiday cheerJan 17, 2008
More than 225 Brooklyn chapter leaders spent a night dancing, laughing and connecting with one another on Dec. 11 at a holiday gathering in the union’s borough headquarters.
Speaking of feminismJan 17, 2008
UFT President Randi Weingarten was part of a panel which led a discussion of “A Woman’s Agenda in Today’s Political Life.”
District 21 honorsJan 17, 2008
District 21 Representative Judy Gerowitz was honored by the Brighton Neighborhood Association at a Brooklyn restaurant on Oct. 25.
subprime numbersJan 17, 2008
Hundreds of protesters, including UFT President Randi Weingarten, gathered outside the New York Stock Exchange on Dec. 10 to demand a swift and decisive response by government and big business to the growing subprime loan crisis sweeping the nation.
Standing up against hateDec 06, 2007
High school students from all five boroughs took part in the “Day Out Against Hate” sponsored by City Council Speaker Christine Quinn on Nov. 29 in response to a 20-percent increase in reported hate crimes in New York City.
When they’re not running ...Dec 06, 2007
The UFT Runners, a diverse band of educators who share a common interest in running at various levels of proficiency, held their October meeting to make plans for another year of fun and fitness.
Singing the union's praisesDec 06, 2007
The New York City Labor Chorus presented a signed picture by Ralph Fasanella — a painter whose detailed work depicts the city’s garment industry and American labor and grassroots political history — to UFT President Randi Weingarten for the union’s support.
9/11 tributeDec 06, 2007
The Tribute WTC Visitor Center, which offers visitors to the World Trade Center site a place where they can connect with people from the 9/11 community, honored teachers from around the world for their 9/11-related educational projects at an awards ceremony
Language leadersDec 06, 2007
The New York City Association of Foreign Language Teachers/UFT, in collaboration with the New York State Association of Foreign Language Teachers, held its annual professional conference — “World Languages: Teaching Locally, Reaching Globally” — on Oct. 27 at UFT headquarters.
The president visits ... ps/is 180, BrooklynDec 06, 2007
When UFT President Randi Weingarten got a letter from Principal Gary Williams praising the great work Chapter Leader Lynette Azar is doing at PS/IS 180, she decided to check out the Brooklyn school.
Get well soonDec 06, 2007
A “Stress Buster” wellness seminar, featuring a yoga instructor, a relaxation and imagery therapist, a Reiki master and a health consultant, was sponsored by the UFT Welfare Fund Health and Cancer Helpline and Cancer Advisory committee.
Walking for autism awarenessNov 15, 2007
A team of teachers, paraprofessionals, family and friends — the Autism Awareness All-Stars — walked at Jones Beach for Autism Speaks on Oct. 14 and raised $4,500.
Learning to handle emergenciesNov 15, 2007
Lab specialists, science teachers and chapter leaders received chemical spill training in August at UFT headquarters in Manhattan.
Asian parents conference a hitNov 15, 2007
For the third year, the UFT and the Chinese American Parent-Student Council of New York City collaborated on an Education Conference for Chinese-Speaking Parents.
Sign of courageNov 15, 2007
A street sign in memory of a profile in courage — a 6-year-old boy from Liberia — was dedicated on Oct. 20 at PS 57 on Staten Island.
wowNov 15, 2007
With a stroke of collaborative genius, the wobbly old book carts that passed for a library at PS 23 in Queens were recently transformed into a huge, new, fabulously decorated bookmobile.
Joltin' Joe's a hitNov 01, 2007
Long Island University professor and author Joseph Dorinson presented a lecture on Joe DiMaggio and other Italian-American heroes in baseball at UFT headquarters.
Chalk one up for themNov 01, 2007
Six Manhattan public schools were among the honorees at Manhattan Media’s sixth annual Blackboard Awards ceremony at the New-York Historical Society.
Under their skinNov 01, 2007
Educators attended an Open House at Bodies ... The Exhibition at the South Street Seaport.
Speech speaker wows 450Oct 18, 2007
More than 450 speech teachers from throughout the city attended a daylong meeting on Sept. 7 featuring one of the country’s best-known language and literacy experts.
Piano keys to successOct 18, 2007
The 5 Browns — who made history as the first set of siblings to study piano simultaneously at Juilliard — shared their talent with students at PS 102, an Education Through Music school in Harlem.
They love a paradeOct 18, 2007
UFTers were out in full force for the 40th annual West Indian American Day Carnival and Parade.
Staffer honoredOct 18, 2007
UFT industrial hygienist Chris Proctor was given the Karen Silkwood Award by the New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health last May.
Calling all home child care providers ...Oct 04, 2007
More ballots arrive every day as home child-care providers continue their campaign to get out the YES vote in the election that will make them part of the UFT.
Summer trainingOct 04, 2007
About 40 of Staten Island’s 53 chapter leaders were able to take part in a summer chapter leader training day held on Aug. 29 at the borough office.
Speaking of empowermentOct 04, 2007
The concept of empowerment was a hot topic at an Aug. 29 Queens borough chapter leader meeting, held at the UFT office in Rego Park.
Change is goodOct 04, 2007
PS 196 is better than ever. The Brooklyn school is one of only six schools in the nation to win the eighth annual National School Change Awards.
Making the scene at Harlem WeekOct 04, 2007
UFT African Heritage Committee members, following Vice President Michelle Bodden’s lead, joined politicians and community leaders on Aug. 18-19 at the Harlem Week Festival.
Proud momentOct 04, 2007
UFT Queens Borough Representative Rona Freiser was honored by the Queens Lesbian and Gay Pride Committee on June 27 during Pride Week.
Clearing the airOct 04, 2007
Just because something is reported on the TV news doesn’t necessarily make it true, as teachers, students and parents at Information Technology HS in Long Island City recently were relieved to learn.
Secretaries stage Katrina relief projectOct 04, 2007
Members of the UFT School Secretaries Chapter have completed a citywide drive for office supplies in support of their brothers and sisters in New Orleans schools.
It was just their ImaginationOct 04, 2007
One of the city’s oldest and best-known alternative high schools, Satellite Academy at Forsyth Street, has earned the Lincoln Center Institute’s first-ever Imagination Award.
Team gels at UFT Charter Summer InstituteOct 04, 2007
Whether sharing ideas sitting around big tables or running through the woods playing laser tag, 45 teachers learned many aspects of teamwork at the UFT Elementary Charter School Summer Institute.
Weighing in at PEP meetingOct 04, 2007
Senior teachers who believe they have been treated or unfairly simply because of their age or salary testified at the Sept. 25 meeting of the Panel for Educational Policy.
Secretarial sharpeningSep 20, 2007
Some 120 new school secretaries and secretaries who have changed job titles sharpened their skills and learned new ones at the School Secretaries Summer Institute.
Learning to help their kidsSep 20, 2007
At a June 7 professional development conference at UFT headquarters, more than 300 elementary school guidance counselors recently received tips on putting students on the path to academic success.
Their guidance appreciatedSep 20, 2007
Forty-five UFT guidance counselors were honored on May 30 at the 21st annual Guidance Counselor Recognition Day for their vital and varied role in helping keep kids on track toward fulfillment and academic achievement.
Computer keys to successSep 20, 2007
The classrooms and hallways at Brooklyn’s PS 53 turned into a virtual wonderland last May with laptops and Internet tours of Italy and Egypt.
'Funapaloosa' no snoozaSep 06, 2007
Ever dunk a favorite authority figure in a tank of frigid water? Students got just that opportunity at the fourth annual “Funapaloosa” at PS 10 in Park Slope, Brooklyn.
Attendance teachers hailed as 'unsung heroes'Sep 06, 2007
Altomare honored
Sep 06, 2007
The Council of Municipal Retiree Organizations of New York City honored George Altomare, UFT director of Professional Committees, at its sixth annual End-Of-The-Year Luncheon.
Bronx cheersSep 06, 2007
Vincent Gaglione, retired UFT Bronx Borough Representative and longtime union stalwart, was honored in June by the UFT Italian-American Committee.
Traveling the world in BrooklynSep 06, 2007
Imagine every type of arts-and-crafts project using every type and texture of material animated by the boundless ingenuity and soaring spirit of the school family of kids and teachers who created them. That’s what was on display at a Brooklyn school last June.
A lasting legacySep 06, 2007
A Queens school dedicated a new science lab to commemorate a well-loved teacher who died suddenly in her classroom last year.
Fun and gamesSep 06, 2007
Send in the clowns! And all the trimmings — games, cotton candy, popcorn, hot dogs. Add it all up and you have the first annual PTA Carnival at the UFT Charter Elementary School.
Per diem meetingSep 06, 2007
Members of the UFT Per Diem Committee were briefed on Welfare Fund Direct Access Plans and salary rates at a recent meeting at UFT headquarters.
Worrisome signsSep 06, 2007
Staten Island UFTers staged their first-ever protest against an individual principal when some two dozen marched with signs outside PS 26 in the Travis section June 18.
Mr. G ducks snowballs with a smileAug 09, 2007
Teacher-turned-TV-weatherman Irv Gikofsky endured some good-natured ribbing from two teachers from his days as a student at Francis Lewis HS.
Charter school 'pioneers' celebrateAug 09, 2007
The staffs of eight charter schools that have union representation rounded out the school year at an informal get-together June 12 at Union Hall in Brooklyn.
The president visits...Aug 09, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten in late May visited the staff at PS 22 in Brooklyn which, by secret ballot, had passed by two-thirds margin in April a vote of “no-confidence” against their principal.
Filling up on excellenceAug 09, 2007
Teachers and students from all around the city brought their culinary and artistic skills to the annual AFT Black Caucus Scholarship Fund-raiser.
Special friends honoredAug 09, 2007
Eat, drink and be merry. It’s the annual District 75 Dinner Dance to honor special friends of the district held at a Queens restaurant on June 8.
Blackboard lessonAug 09, 2007
New York City teachers were among the educators singled out for excellence in education at the Blackboard Awards 2007 reception held June 13 at Fordham University.
Speech teachers recognizedAug 09, 2007
Speech teachers honored their own for excellence in both speech pathology and for contributions made to their schools and communities.
Book'em!May 10, 2007
It was “A Piece of Cake” that drew parents to the Averne Branch of the Queens Public Library for the first meeting of the UFT book discussion group on March 12.
Socializing and solidarityMay 10, 2007
A Friday happening is catching on in Brooklyn.
Safety sessionMay 10, 2007
School safety agents and UFT officials from all boroughs attended a March 27 conference to discuss matters related to school security and safety.
Saying goodbyeMay 10, 2007
A retirement party honoring Ron Jones, former UFT vice president for elementary schools, was held in Brooklyn on March 8.
'Irishwoman of the Year'May 10, 2007
Former UFT chapter leader Dr. Brigid Higgins was honored as “Irishwoman of the Year” at a City Hall ceremony on April 20.
Joyful artMay 10, 2007
Art class at PS 194, a K-8 school in the Bronx, is no free period for playing around.
Life lessons learnedMay 10, 2007
Welcome to Carlotta’s Poetry Café at PS 140 in Jamaica, Queens.
Lutheran nurses still smiling after contract victoryMay 10, 2007
Months after their hospital bosses blinked and dropped pension giveback demands in the face of certain strike action by fired-up Lutheran Medical Center RNs, the facility's Federation of Nurses/UFT members were still smiling.
'No member stands alone'May 09, 2007
The UFT Committee for Members who are Capably Disabled toasted 17 years of providing assistance to UFT members with disabilities at its March 27 meeting.
No lyin' — Lunar New Year celebration a hitApr 12, 2007
The UFT Asian Heritage Committee's Lunar New Year Celebration draws people from every borough — educators, administrators, politicians and friends of the UFT family.
Worthwhile weekendApr 12, 2007
Teams from more than two-thirds of District 75 schools attended the District 75 Weekend.
They tried to kill us, we survived; let's eatApr 12, 2007
More than 60 unionists gathered to celebrate the exodus from Egypt, when Moses, with a little help from God, organized the biggest labor walkout of all times.
You can read about trees...Mar 29, 2007
Happy 103rd birthday, Dr. Seuss! In spirit, the beloved “doctor” was the guest of honor at the Celebrity Read-In on Read Across America Day.
Ain't this grand?Mar 29, 2007
Students, staff and parents were on hand on Feb. 13 for the grand opening of the new library designed to serve the 1,200 students at IS 68, Brooklyn.
Scholarship and spanakopitaMar 29, 2007
The UFT Hellenic American Educators Association hosted an evening of scholarship and spanakopita.
"Rosa" is readMar 29, 2007
Students and staff at PS 254 in Queens participated in their third annual “Read Aloud” last month, which also marked the third year of the school’s opening.
All in the Family DayMar 29, 2007
District 75 Hearing Education Services brought together teachers, parents and children for their third annual Family Day.
DOE puts squeeze on Queens JHSMar 21, 2007
More than 500 irate parents and students joined City Councilwoman Melinda Katz and UFT President Randi Weingarten at a March 1 rally outside Halsey JHS in Rego Park.
Bards of the BronxMar 15, 2007
More than 200 people flocked to the Bronx UFT office on Feb. 9 for a Black History Month celebration of African-American poets and of the spoken word.
Developing leadershipMar 06, 2007
Secretaries turned out in large numbers for their UFT functional chapter’s annual Leadership Conference.
Historic momentMar 06, 2007
More than 260 participants enjoyed the festive UFT African Heritage Committee’s fourth annual dinner dance — Eyes on the Prize — in celebration of Black History Month.
Choral presentationMar 06, 2007
The New York City Music Teachers Association/UFT co-presented a fast-paced choral workshop for choral music teachers at all levels on Feb. 3 at UFT headquarters.
Clinicians' efforts recognizedMar 06, 2007
Clinician Appreciation day — the first in what is expected to be an annual celebation — was held at UFT headquarters on Jan. 25.
AFT Institute features Teacher Center's partnership modelMar 06, 2007
The UFT Teacher Center was in the spotlight at the ninth annual AFT/UFT Institute, which drew more than 150 educators from around the country to Brooklyn on Jan. 25-28.
Seeking guidanceMar 06, 2007
It was guidance counselors as far as the eye could see — close to 400 of them — at the third annual Guidance Counselors Conference held at UFT headquarters on Feb. 3.
Party heartyMar 06, 2007
Teachers from a host of Brooklyn schools added a touch of St. Valentine’s Day celebration to their TGIF socials at two Brooklyn bistros on Feb. 9.
Early preparationFeb 15, 2007
Home-based child-care providers and staff from day-care centers and schools with pre-K and Head Start programs were among those attending the 12th annual Interagency Early Childhood Professional Development Institute.
New resources for providersFeb 15, 2007
The UFT has helped to establish a program that will repay home-based child-care providers for out-of-pocket expenses they incur through their work.
A brush with successFeb 15, 2007
Deaf and hard-of-hearing students at Martin Van Buren HS were thrilled to paint their first mural, a reproduction of “Deaf Picnic, Austin Texas.”
Well-deserved celebrationFeb 15, 2007
Super day
Feb 15, 2007
There was a super turnout — more than 100 — for the Super Sunday staff development day co-sponsored by the UFT Speech Chapter and Buffalo State College on Jan. 28 at UFT headquarters.
Happy retirementFeb 01, 2007
Former UFT Special Representative Ken Lubetsky, a longtime Bronx teacher, chapter leader and union activist, was honored recently at a retirement party.
The president visits...Feb 01, 2007
At a morning visit to PS 156 in Queens on Nov. 21, UFT President Randi Weingarten addressed the staff’s concerns about safety and related issues, such as student discipline.
Public School Team scores points in GhanaFeb 01, 2007
New Dorp HS teacher Nick Kvasic and Alec Mahrer of Beacon HS co-coached a 17-member soccer team representing New York City’s public high schools that played in Ghana during the winter recess.
Preserving historyFeb 01, 2007
Thanks to a grant from the new State Education Department’s Archives Division and with the approval of the city Department of Education, New Utrecht HS is on pace to be the first school in New York City to digitize its student records.
King Day forumFeb 01, 2007
UFT President Randi Weingarten spoke at the National Action Network's Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Public Policy Forum on Jan. 15.
Pursuing economic, social justiceDec 07, 2006
More than 300 people took part in the second annual Clergy Conference at UFT headquarters on Nov. 2. Sponsored jointly by City Comptroller William C. Thompson Jr. and the Faith Center for Community Development, its theme was “Accessing Funds for Faith-Based Community Development.” Sen. Hillary Clinton was the keynote speaker.
Five fond farewellsNov 16, 2006
Five longtime UFT activists — a political activist, a former vice president, a borough representative and two district reps — were given fitting send-offs recently after announcing their retirement.
Spooktacular performancesNov 14, 2006
It was a UFT Halloween moment: Literary creativity and candy. Costumes and collaboration. History, politics and cake.
Leadership training: serious funNov 14, 2006
Nearly 250 new chapter leaders attended the second of two training sessions in Princeton, N.J., last month.
Historic eventNov 14, 2006
Diane Ravitch, America’s preeminent educational historian, was the guest speaker at an Oct. 26 event co-sponsored by Wagner College of Staten Island and 31 IDEAL.
Doing their partNov 14, 2006
Newer teachers played integral roles in helping to get out the vote for UFT-endorsed candidates before Nov. 7.
Middle groundNov 14, 2006
There was a lot to talk about at the bimonthly meeting of the city’s middle school chapter leaders at union headquarters on Oct. 26.
Counselors counseledNov 14, 2006
It’s never too early to get your financial house in order, so guidance counselors, at an Oct. 25 membership meeting, learned about a Citibank program that would teach their students how to manage their finances.
Assisting parentsNov 02, 2006
More than 200 parents attended the second annual Education Conference for Chinese-Speaking Parents at the Queens UFT Office on Oct. 15.
Party heartyNov 02, 2006
Home daycare providers working to organize a union spent their first evening breaking bread together and socializing at a potluck party and dance on Sept. 29 at UFT headquarters.
Sign LanguageNov 02, 2006
Staff at IS 201 in Brooklyn, most with posters and with strong community support, circled the school entrance early in the morning of Oct. 11 to protest overcrowded conditions.
Happy 50thNov 02, 2006
At the 50th anniversary celebration of Learning Leaders, UFT President Randi Weingarten commended the efforts of the 15,000 volunteers who work with almost 250,000 students in nearly 1,000 schools.
Wonderful feetNov 02, 2006
UFTers by the hundreds took part in the "Making Strides Against Breast Cancer" walk on Oct. 15 in every borough and on Long Island.
Helpful startOct 19, 2006
New teachers on Staten Island took advantage of an orientation at the UFT’s borough office on Sept. 19.
Honoring a heroOct 03, 2006
The Christopher A. Santora School in Jackson Heights, Queens, the city’s only public school named after a fallen 9/11 hero, unveiled a memorial display of artifacts from the life of the firefighter.
They love a paradeSep 19, 2006
A contingent of UFTers took part in the West Indian Day Parade, carrying their lower-class-size message along Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn.
Game timeSep 19, 2006
At the Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged, there’s always a big turnout from Martin Van Buren HS, thanks to teacher Betty Hintz.
Not just clownin' aroundSep 19, 2006
There was something for everyone — teachers, parents and children — at the Hearing Education Services second annual Family Day on May 20 at the Queens Occupational Training Center.
Learning and celebratingSep 19, 2006
Some 200 District 75 nurses participated in a day of staff development on june 8th, at the Queens borough office.
All the right movesSep 19, 2006
Letting the body go with the flow of the rhythm, teachers from city schools that partner with Lincoln Center Institute for the Arts in Education actively learn to perform the lessons they later teach to their students.
Fluffy sendoffSep 19, 2006
Friends and colleagues of Elaine Siegel attended a retirement party June 7 to honor her for her decades of service.
De-Stress managementSep 19, 2006
Some of the city’s newest teachers learned how to "do it all" at a UFT summer seminar, “Don’t Burn Out — De-Stress.”
Bronx talesSep 07, 2006
Kindergartners and 1st-graders at PS/MS194 in the Bronx have been burying their noses in the bonanza of books that has come their way through a grant from the Hello Friend Classroom Lending Library Project.
Special nightSep 07, 2006
It was a wonderful evening of dining, dancing and honoring friends of District 75 at their second annual Dinner Dance and Awards in June.
Congratulazioni!Sep 07, 2006
UFT District 75 Representative Al Mancuso was honored with the Jeannette DiLorenzo Lifetime Achievement Award.
Music to their earsSep 07, 2006
Bravo to music teachers Joseph Bartolozzi and Jayne Skoog for ending the school year with a glorious fortissimo.
Union 'grad' to be of serviceSep 07, 2006
The UFT came to the rescue of a Brooklyn elementary school after its first attempt at a graduation ceremony turned into a disaster.
Guidance Counselors HonoredAug 16, 2006
UFT does OK at RA
May 26, 2006
More than 575 UFT delegates attended the NYSUT Representative Assembly in Rochester earlier this month, taking part in a historic convention: the first chaired by Dick Iannuzzi, who became president of the state teachers union last year, and the convention at which NYSUT voted to unite with the state chapter of the National Education Association
The UFT president visits Aviation HSMay 25, 2006
Weingarten emphasized members’ connection to the union during an April 5 meeting with the staff at Aviation HS. She also discussed the UFT outlook for the coming year.
The UFT president visits PS 178, QueensMay 25, 2006
Weingarten was a fly on the wall at a recent PS 178 School Leadership meeting.
The UFT president visits PS 272, BrooklynMay 25, 2006
Your health and safety come first. That’s what UFT President Randi Weingarten came to celebrate April 7 with teachers and paraprofessionals at PS 272 in the Canarsie section of Brooklyn.
Easing concernsMay 11, 2006
In the wake of news that a freshman at Boys and Girls HS had been diagnosed with bacterial meningitis, UFT Vice President for Academic High Schools Frank Volpicella and UFT industrial hygienist Chris Proctor visited the school on March 23 to address members’ concerns about the risk to staff and other students. The approximately 30 staff members at the meeting listened intently as Department of Education School Health officials, including a supervising doctor, explained that bacterial meningitis can only be transmitted through direct intimate contact. The UFT provided a fact sheet on the disease. “Staff members seemed comfortable with the responses to their questions,” said Volpicella.
Green dayMay 11, 2006
It wasn’t even St. Patrick’s Day, but green carnations were everywhere and so were the O’Connors, the McNallys and the Shanahans as the Department of Education Irish American Heritage and Culture Committee paid tribute recently to Thomas Murphy, former UFT director of legislation/political action, at a ceremony in Council Chambers at City Hall. He was honored for his years of service to the Irish American community.
The UFT president visits PS 254, BrooklynMay 11, 2006
In her busy round of school visits, UFT President Randi Weingarten encourages discussion of issues important to members in drafting the next contract.
Democracy soars in school’s mascot contestMay 11, 2006
Tom Murphy, former UFT director of legislation/polical action, received many responses from students at PS 11 on Staten Island after he weighed in on his alma mater's quest to name a mascot.
Bronx teacher wins prestigious Marshall ScholarshipMay 11, 2006
The good news came to special education teacher Julia Rafal in a dark movie house where she had gone to calm her nerves as she waited for the results of her interview.
'Fixation' on high-stakes testing sparks debateMay 11, 2006
Parents, community activists and UFT members expressed sharply divided views over the Department of Education’s high-stakes testing policy at a recent Staten Island forum co-sponsored by St. John’s University and 31 IDEAL, a coalition of parents, community activists and UFT members.
The UFT president vists MS 210, QueensApr 27, 2006
The UFT president visits MS 246, Brooklyn
Apr 27, 2006
Celebrating Greek independence
Apr 27, 2006
Once again, people had a great evening when they turned out for the annual Hellenic Ethnic Festival to celebrate Greek Independence Day, hosted by the UFT Hellenic American Educators Association.
Irish eyes are smilingApr 13, 2006
The UFT Irish American Heritage Committee honored Brian McLaughlin, president of the New York City Central Labor Council, at its annual event last month at union headquarters.
Finding solutionsApr 13, 2006
One of those UFT-family moments was in store for President Randi Weingarten at PS 115 in Brooklyn, which she visited on Feb. 27.
Museum lauds immigrant student authorsApr 13, 2006
Student authors at International HS at La Guardia in Queens were honored earlier this year at a ceremony at the Queens Museum of Art.
Looking forwardApr 13, 2006
After outlining the difficulties in the long struggle to win the new contract with staff at PS 123, Brooklyn, UFT President Randi Weingarten discussed the need for developing core issues for the upcoming negotiations and the need to adopt a position of no contract, no work.
Brooklyn educators, parents make push for state school aidApr 13, 2006
Fed up with crumbling schools that have no gyms, no science labs and such crowded classes that many students have to sit on radiators, UFTers joined City Council members at Brooklyn Borough Hall on March 27 to pressure Albany to deliver more education funding immediately.
Standing up to intimidationApr 13, 2006
The union will stand up and protect educators who are being intimidated by administrators. UFT President Randi Weingarten made that clear when she met with members at IS 93 in Queens last month.
CondolencesApr 13, 2006
UFT President Randi Weingarten paid a condolence call at IS 240, Brooklyn, where staff are mourning the death of Chapter Leader Anthony Pensabene, who died recently of a heart attack.
March madness in the BronxApr 12, 2006
Community and school spirits were flying through the hoops last month at PS 32 in the Bronx as UFT members squared off in a basketball game against 4th- and 5th-graders.
Support for staffApr 12, 2006
On the heels of the sudden removal of the principal at Rachel Carson HS for Coastal Studies, UFT President Randi Weingarten visited the Coney Island school to offer her support to the staff.
Mardi Gras for fun and contributionsMar 29, 2006
The UFT raised more than $10,000 at its Fat Tuesday dinner dance benefiting AFT colleagues hit by Hurricane Katrina.
Some song, some luck, some donationsMar 29, 2006
More than 200 people turned out for Casino/Karaoke Night last month, a first-time event at the Bronx UFT office.
Red alertMar 29, 2006
It’s solidarity all the way at PS 178 where staff got a much-needed morale boost when they donned the bright red T-shirts supplied by Chapter Leader Tricia Gomes and welcomed UFT President Randi Weingarten to their Queens school.
Have a ‘chat’ with Dial-A-TeacherMar 29, 2006
Dial-A-Teacher, the UFT’s lively, popular homework helpline, is now unstumping the stumped in cyberspace since launching its chat room on Feb. 8 in collaboration with the New York Public Library, the Brooklyn Public Library and the Queens Borough Public Library.
Managing micromanagementMar 29, 2006
Issues of micromanaging and safety were high on the agenda during UFT President Randi Weingarten’s visit to IS 49.
Art teachers meet noted cartoonistMar 29, 2006
Members of the New York City Art Teachers Association (NYCATA) were treated to a tour of the Daily News building in March and met with officials of the paper and the renowned sports cartoonist Bill Gallo.
Parent powwowMar 16, 2006
Special Ed confab
Mar 16, 2006
Just dessert
Mar 16, 2006
The entire staff at MS 81, Queens, learned just how much they are appreciated when they were invited to a special Valentine’s Day dessert, an annual sweet-tooth extravaganza arranged by the principal and the Parent-Teacher Association.
Chapter unity gets resultsMar 16, 2006
Supporting the troops
Mar 16, 2006
Black History Month Celebration
Mar 16, 2006
Just Rewards
Mar 16, 2006
While counselors were honored by the UFT at a Feb. 4 conference, scores of its members in every borough celebrated Guidance Counselor Week last month at smaller, more intimate gatherings.
Working on changing LivesMar 16, 2006
Their caseloads are huge, but their dedication is bigger. Guidance counselors from every borough devoted a precious Saturday to hone their skills at the UFT’s second annual Guidance Counselor Conference Feb. 4 at the union’s Manhattan headquarters
Shop StewardsMar 16, 2006
Under your skin
Feb 16, 2006
To Shauna Hill, “Bodies:The Exhibition,” which displays human bodies preserved by a revolutionary technique that prevents decay, “is a science teacher’s dream come true.”
Havana good timeFeb 16, 2006
Hand-rolled cigars, hot cups of cafe bustelo, tall drinks on the rocks, great food, salsa dancing — sound like a night on the town in Havana?
Great receptionFeb 16, 2006
Vincent Laino, coach of the Public Schools Athletic League A Division champion Fort Hamilton HS football team, was honored as the New York Jets High School Coach of the Year.
‘Morale booster’Feb 16, 2006
During a visit with UFT President Randi Weingarten, the staff at PS 140 in Manhattan expressed their outrage at the anti-public education tirade by ABC’s “20/20” co-anchor John Stossel.
Lab specialists receive trainingFeb 16, 2006
More than 150 lab specialists from all over the city received training last month. The subjects were “Safety in the Lab” and “Blood Borne Pathogens.”
Building unityFeb 16, 2006
Building a grassroots movement was a hot topic at PS 40 when UFT President Randi Weingarten visited the Manhattan school on Jan. 6.
Poster contest winnersFeb 16, 2006
It was a class act. A team of students at the HS of Graphic Communication Arts took home first prize in a prestigious contest for designing a poster that best captured the spirit of the Actors’ Fund.
Fun of a ‘Teacher Man’Feb 02, 2006
Former teacher Frank McCourt celebrated the launching of his new book, “Teacher Man,” recently at Stuyvesant HS, where he taught English.
One for the booksFeb 02, 2006
It was the first day of the transit strike. The staff was there. UFT President Randi Weingarten was there. Only the principal was missing.
Car troubleFeb 02, 2006
More than 160 teachers, paraprofessionals, occupational therapists, physical therapists, nurses and secretaries met with UFT President Randi Weingarten just before the December holiday break to discuss contract implementation and other challenges facing the staff at PS 37 on Staten Island.
Slam dunk for homeless kidsFeb 02, 2006
The little kids ate small pizzas, played with toys and shot teeny basketballs into tiny hoops. And when it was time for the little kids to go back to the homeless shelter, the big kids at Grady HS cried.
Santa comes to townFeb 02, 2006
When Santa checked his list twice and found the students at PS 36 were not naughty but nice, he dropped in with gifts for everyone.
Mobilizing for union rights and social changeFeb 02, 2006
They're the members of the UFT Mobilization Committee, and they want you to mobilize, too!
Preparing for contract implementationJan 19, 2006
UFT President Randi Weingarten met with staffers at various schools just before the holiday break to discuss the importance of implementing the new contract properly and fully.
Parent progressJan 19, 2006
Brooklyn Education Collaborative are one step closer to getting their demands met in districts 18, 19 and 23.
Outreach to Chinese-American parents a huge successJan 19, 2006
It took just about a whole village to put together the UFT’s hugely successful first Conference for Chinese-Speaking Parents held recently at the union’s Queens borough office.
Paras reassuredJan 19, 2006
Paraprofessionals got answers to their questions about the new contract at a November conference at the UFT Brooklyn office.
ESL strategies reviewedJan 18, 2006
Successful classroom strategies were shared at an ESL workshop for teachers that explored the different modalities by which students learn.
They’re all ‘art’Dec 09, 2005
The New York City Art Teachers Association celebrated its 25th annual Art Education Conference with a daylong feast of speakers, 30 workshops and exhibits of both students’ and teachers’ work.
Staying UnitedDec 08, 2005
At a mid-morning meeting at Franklin K. Lane HS recently, UFT President Randi Weingarten clarified the new contract for staffers, encouraging them to remember they are union members and need to have a strong spine in implementing the new contract.
Becoming leadersDec 08, 2005
You bring your problems to them; they bring the union to you. Chapter leaders are the everyday link between school staff, administrators and the UFT.
‘Slavery in New York’ exhibit an eye-openerDec 08, 2005
People who think of southern plantations when they think of slavery will be in for a shock when they experience “Slavery in New York” at the New York Historical Society, a museum exhibition with an educational program geared for school children and their teachers.
Funding effortDec 08, 2005
Brooklyn Education Collaborative volunteers didn’t let a downpour rain on their parade when they took to the streets recently to tell Brooklyn residents about their efforts to get funding for science equipment for middle schools that don’t have it and to invite them to a rally at PS 15 in support of the funding drive.
Food for thought — and healthDec 08, 2005
What? Tofu and veggies instead of a burger and fries? Totally whack, man. That attitude is starting to turn around thanks to people like Sheila Schwartz, chair of the UFT Humane Education Committee (left) and Amie Hamlin, director of the New York Coalition for Healthy School Lunches.
Reassuring newsDec 08, 2005
At a recent Speech Chapter meeting, members were reassured that their seniority, transfer and preference rights remain intact in the new contract.
Learning the ropesNov 03, 2005
The Brooklyn borough office staged its annual UFT New Teacher Orientation last month.
Education on paradeNov 03, 2005
For the super education-conscious crowd out celebrating their culture at the West Indian Day Parade, the UFT float scored way up there with the outrageous butterfly costumes and the hottest reggae bands.
Councilman proposes ‘Teachers Day’Nov 03, 2005
Confucius thought it was a good idea, but will Mayor Michael Bloomberg? The idea is this: Honor thy teachers. Honor them formally, says City Councilman John C. Liu, who proposes citywide recognition of “Teachers Day.
Important preparationNov 03, 2005
The UFT and AFT cooperated with the International Chemical Workers Union to conduct two courses on Chemical Emergency Response and a Weapons of Mass Destruction Preparedness/Emergency Response Course in August.
'Players' do it allNov 03, 2005
The UFT Players’ “From Page to Stage” on Sept. 22 was a year in the making.
Walking the walkNov 03, 2005
“Breast cancer hit closer to home this year, not only by the numbers of members who were diagnosed, but by the passing of Sandra Feldman,” said UFT Health and Cancer HelpLine Director Kitty Williston.
Lifetime achievementOct 20, 2005
The Italian American Committee/Italian American Labor Council presented its Jeannette DiLorenzo Lifetime Achievement Award to Retired Teachers Chapter Leader Tom Pappas at its annual end-of-year dinner.
Lots of visits, for openersOct 18, 2005
UFT President Randi Weingarten, accompanied by district and borough representatives, visited scores of schools during the first two weeks of classes.
The UFT Katrina Relief FundSep 22, 2005
Here's how you can contribute to the UFT Katrina Relief Fund.
UFT fund to help Katrina victimsSep 22, 2005
In response to the unprecedented emotional and physical impact of Hurricane Katrina on thousands of lives, the UFT Executive Board resolved to establish the UFT Katrina Relief Fund on Sept. 9.
Teacher Center’s Region 5 partnership worth celebratingSep 22, 2005
More than 250 Region 5 literacy and math coaches, trainers and Teacher Center support staff spent a day in June reviewing, reflecting and setting goals for the new school year.
Staff’s rally gets ‘great response’Sep 22, 2005
Nearly 100 staffers from the major United Cerebral Palsy work sites picketed the group’s Manhattan facility on East 23rd Street on Monday, Sept. 19.
CTExcellenceSep 22, 2005
Students and teachers from all over the city came to UFT headquarters recently for the annual celebration of Career and Technical Education Exemplary Programs, a UFT and Department of Education collaborative event.
Weingarten honoredSep 22, 2005
Founded to work with the trade union movement and the larger community to advance human and civil rights, the National Council for Human Rights of the Jewish Labor Committee honored UFT President Randi Weingarten at its 2005 Human Rights Award Dinner at the Sheraton Hotel in Manhattan in May.
NASDAQ honors UFTSep 22, 2005
UFT President Randi Weingarten, joined by union officers and about three dozen teachers and students, rang the opening bell at the NASDAQ Market Site in Times Square on Sept. 2.
Fun and learning in HarlemSep 22, 2005
The UFT, following its long tradition, participated in the recent 31st annual Harlem Week Celebration.
Grateful for their guidanceSep 22, 2005
If there are rough spots in the school year, they are all smoothed away on Guidance Counselor Recognition Day when counselors learn how much they are respected and appreciated.
Taking the leadSep 22, 2005
UFT President Randi Weingarten paid a visit to the professional development program sponsored by Region 1 and the Teacher Center for lead teachers in the special Community Coalition Program in the region.
Queens for a daySep 22, 2005
UFT school secretaries manage to excel — as was evident from the credentials of the honorees at the annual School Secretaries Luncheon last June.
An ‘oasis’ in BrooklynSep 22, 2005
In its coverage of opening day at the spanking new United Federation of Teachers Elementary Charter School, the New York Sun headlined its story, “Weingarten Opens Oasis of a School.” The language isn't hyperbole, it’s pure description, say its teaching staff.
Fun and gamesSep 22, 2005
There certainly was a good lesson in punctuation mixed in with the fun and games at the PS 10 carnival in Brooklyn. Near the freak show tent, kids were told to step right up and see the amazing six-foot, man-eating chicken.
Oh, baby!Sep 22, 2005
They’re not exactly prepping for the finger-painting test, but babies as young as 8 months are getting a feel — hopefully not a taste — of paint and all the wonderful things it can do on paper.
