If the principal denies your grievance, the union has 15 school days to file a Step 2 chancellor’s level grievance. The union must investigate the denial, but it can appeal to the chancellor’s representative at Step 2. Only the union may appeal or initiate grievances at Step 2.
The UFT’s grievance committee in each borough meets to decide which of the grievances denied at Step 1 should proceed to Step 2. In making its decision, the committee discusses the merits of each case, keeping in mind that arbitration decisions set precedents for all members.
It is important that you provide the borough committee with all relevant documentation through your UFT district representative. The member has the right to appeal the borough committee’s decision to the Grievance Department.