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Paraprofessionals

Priscilla Castro

Priscilla Castro
Paraprofessionals Chapter Chair

Dear Colleagues,

We are very proud to be the fastest growing chapter in the UFT. Several years ago, we had 19,841 paraprofessionals. Now we are more than 25,000 strong.

Our ranks are growing because of the important role that paraprofessionals play in ensuring the needs of all students in our schools are met.

The UFT works hard to support the work you do in schools and in your professional development. It is because of our union that we have a voice in the workplace not only to strengthen our own positions but to make sure our schools and students get the support they need.

On our pages in the Paraprofessionals Chapter section of this website, you will find links to chapter news, events, and a wealth of resources to help meet your needs and answer your questions.

Please make sure to sign up on the website so that you don’t miss important emails from me or from our union.

I am available to answer your questions by email at PCastro@uft.org.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Priscilla Castro
Paraprofessionals Chapter Chair

What's New

Absences for paraprofessionals

If you are a paraprofessional, the DOE-UFT contract establishes rights and obligations in terms of when you can be absent from work. Learn about how you accumulate and can use sick days and about excused absences.

Bringing retired paras into the UFT fold

The UFT has initiated an outreach program to determine how the union can best support retired paraprofessionals. The Retired Teachers Chapter includes approximately 7,600 paraprofessionals.

Priscilla Castro elected Para Chapter chair

Priscilla Castro was elected on May 25 as chapter chair of the Paraprofessionals Chapter for the term ending June 30, 2024. Castro had been serving as interim chapter chair since Shelvy Young-Abrams retired in October 2022.

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