Leigh Anderson

Federation of Nurses/UFT members who are registered professional nurses employed by VNS Health overwhelmingly ratified a contract on Jan. 27 that provides a 12% compounded pay increase over two years, money for experience and certification differentials and improvements to scheduling and the retirement health package.

The UFT is taking aim at the School Construction Authority as it forecasts that when New York City public schools enter year four of the phased implementation of the state’s class-size reduction law, they will fall slightly short of the 80% compliance the law requires -- largely due to a lack of space.

District 79 math teacher Samuel Berck instructs incarcerated students at the East River Academy at the Rikers Island jail complex.


The cold, short days of late winter can drain even the most enthusiastic teachers and students. Seasoned educators know that keeping kids — and themselves — engaged and energetic requires some strategic planning. Here are a few tips from veterans to lift your spirits and keep your students eager to learn. 


Middle school teachers Cristina Cappiello and Arielle Schwartz showcase an inventive way to teach the classic novel "The Giver" in their classroom at MS 245 in Manhattan.

Some 300 nurses gathered for workshops, a keynote address on neurology and a festive lunch at the Federation of Nurses/UFT's Professional Issues Conference at the New York Grand Central Hotel in Midtown Manhattan on Nov. 21. 


In-service TRS members can start to contribute to a Roth account in January 2026. A Roth option offers no upfront tax break, but withdrawals in retirement are generally tax-free.

A calmer pace. More individualized attention. Fewer distractions. Those are among the greatest benefits teachers say they’re seeing in their classrooms this year as the state class size law enters its third year of implementation.


Curious if you’re being paid what you deserve? Check out the new UFT Salary Checkup tool in the UFT Member Hub.