June 4, 2026

Tom Brown is reelected as TRS teacher member trustee

TRS Chair Tom Brown was decisively reelected as a teacher member on the Teachers' Retirement System Board. With more than 42 years of experience in the classroom, as a chapter leader and pension consultant and as UFT assistant treasurer and TRS Board chair, Tom knows what it takes to reliably grow our pensions. We are grateful for his leadership. Thank you for taking part in the election and for making sure your members had all the information they needed to participate.

Wear blue on June 10 to support paraprofessionals

The state budget has been finalized and now all our focus is turning to the city budget, which means one thing: RESPECT CHECK time.

In a great step forward, our paraprofessional RESPECT check legislation is being reviewed, and its cost is being calculated. This means the mayor and City Council together are looking at what the cost will be. This is a significant sign that we’re getting close to the finish line.

But we know how this goes—and our advocacy does not end.

On June 10, Priscilla Castro, the Paraprofessionals Chapter chair, will be testifying at the City Council Committee on Finance budget hearing. As she makes the case for our RESPECT check, we will be asking all UFT members to wear blue that day in solidarity with our paraprofessionals. We want to send the message that we all stand united in our support of the paraprofessional RESPECT check and we are all watching for it to be passed. Let's be loud and show our support as we advocate for paraprofessionals at City Hall.

Resources:

• Use these profile picture graphics on your social media.
• Check out our RESPECT campaign toolkit for a printable sign and more.
• Find answers to your questions about the proposed legislation in our RESPECT check FAQ.
• Learn more on our RESPECT campaign page.

Class size law is extended

The state has proposed legislation extending the timeline for full implementation of the class size law. While this wasn't surprising, the UFT fought to make sure that the city treats educators with respect as we work toward full implementation.

The extension brings the compliance rate to 70% for 2026‑27, 80% for 2027‑28, 90% for 2028‑29 and 100% by 2029‑30.

How did we get here?

We know the final phases of class size implementation are the hardest. Classroom space, construction projects and hiring are causing challenges in many schools. But for the first three years of this law, the city dragged its feet when it came to implementation and should be held accountable.

What were we able to negotiate?

For the first time, teachers whose classes remain above the new class size limits because of approved hard-to-staff and space exemptions will be eligible for a differential of up to $8,500 in 2026-27 school year and $9,500 in the 2027-28 school year. These exemptions will be decided upon in November of each year. This agreement creates, for the first time, a way to compensate many educators who are directly affected by implementation delays.

The recipients of these exemptions will be determined in November of each year. It's important to note that not every teacher whose class is out of compliance with the class size limits will receive the differential.

These differentials serve to hold the city accountable while making sure our members are treated fairly as the city works toward full compliance.

Learn more

Tier 6 reforms have passed

As a result of thousands of us standing together this school year, Albany took a major step forward in correcting the injustice of Tier 6. For educators in Tier 6, the retirement age has been lowered from 63 to 58 after 30 years of service. This is five more years of retirement and will save our educators up to $45,000 compared with what they would have had to contribute over that period. They will also earn more than $425,000 in pension payments between the ages of 58 and 63.

This is a BIG deal and shows that real progress is possible when we mobilize together. But the work is not done — we're going to keep fighting for 55/30 and more reforms. These fights for equity are at the heart of our union. Let's be proud of what we've achieved and remain committed to accomplishing more in the months and years ahead!

Create a team for our 5K Family Run/Walk on June 13

Put together a team from your school or chapter to participate in the union's 11th annual 5K Family Run/Walk on Saturday, June 13, on the Coney Island boardwalk. The fee to participate is $25 for adults and $15 for children age 12 or younger. Proceeds go to the UFT Disaster Relief Fund. Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m., and the walk/run begins at 9:30 a.m. at Maimonides Park, 1904 Surf Ave. The UFT will provide complimentary water, snacks and giveaways for each participant and a chance to win raffle prizes. You can run or walk as an individual or as part of a team. Sponsors can also pledge money for your participation. Post this flyer in your school.

Register now