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News for Paraprofessionals

Standing on dignity

Celebrating 10 years of DASA training

Ten years ago, the UFT saved the jobs of 10,000 members by providing training on combating discrimination, bullying and harassment in schools The six hours of training was required by the then-new state law, the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA), for teachers, paraprofessionals and school clinicians to maintain their state certification. Many of the trainers, past and present, came together on Feb. 8 to mark the anniversary.
Election (Generic)

Paraprofessionals Chapter elections this spring

Every three years, you have an opportunity to elect a school chapter leader, a paraprofessional representative for your school as well as the leadership of the citywide Paraprofessionals Chapter. 

Lead Teacher Assistant Q&A for Paraprofessionals

Find out more about the lead teacher assistant (lead educational associate) position for paraprofessionals.

Fireside chat with Norman and Velma Murphy Hill

Fireside chat with Norman and Velma Murphy Hill

UFT members had the rare opportunity to hear a first-hand account of the creation of the Paraprofessionals Chapter more than 50 years ago from Velma Murphy Hill, the chapter’s founder and first chair, and her husband Norman Hill.


Group of diverse UFT educators sitting at a table with books

Better tool to assure special ed compliance

The new contract establishes school-based Special Education Committees and annual training of all staff on special education rules and regulations. Vice President for Special Education MaryJo Ginese writes that these new rights will empower members with knowledge and give them an effective vehicle to have their voice heard.

William Valentin

William Valentin, paraprofessional for hearing impaired students

As a one-on-one paraprofessional in a third and fourth grade DHHES classroom at PS 333 in the Bronx, William Valentin supports Deaf and hearing impaired students with their communication, educational and behavioral needs.