Leigh Anderson
New York Teacher Senior Editor/Reporter
Shake off the winter doldrums
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.
Getting into character
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.
UFT college and career fairs
Some 5,500 high school students across the city explored college and career options at the UFT's two college and career fairs this fall at Brooklyn College and the Borough of Manhattan Community College.
Federation of Nurses/UFT’s Professional Issues Conference
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.
TRS’ Roth option enrollment opens
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.
Room to breathe
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.
Union offers new tool to help members track their pay
Curious if you’re being paid what you deserve? Check out the new UFT Salary Checkup tool in the UFT Member Hub.
Growing scientists in Gowanus
Amber Carlin-Mishkin doesn’t just teach science — she teaches her students to think like scientists. Through a new partnership with the Gowanus Canal Conservancy, the 5th-grade teacher at PS 118 in Park Slope, Brooklyn, helps her students view their own neighborhood as an ecosystem.
Never standing alone
Members throughout the five boroughs wore pink on Oct. 15 in support of breast cancer research and to show solidarity with colleagues fighting the disease.
Crafting meaningful homework
Sound homework policy should meaningfully support learning with overwhelming students or teachers. Veteran educators share their strategies for creating homework that’s worthwhile and effective in the age of artificial intelligence