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Feature Stories

Born ‘leaders’

Three current UFT chapter leaders in District 22 in Brooklyn follow in the footsteps of family members whose dedication and hard work as chapter leaders inspired the next generation.

A place to veg out

For students and teachers at PS 13 on Staten Island, vegetable and meditation gardens provide not only learning experiences but also a respite from pandemic challenges; a place where both students and staff can get some sun, fresh air and a boost to their social and emotional well-being.

Flood of caring for family in need

Teachers and staff at PS 377 in Bushwick, Brooklyn, came together to help a school family that lost everything when their apartment flooded in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida.

Another assist for PIP

Erica Boyce, a 4th-grade special education teacher at PS 677 in Brooklyn, turned to the UFT Peer Intervention Program (PIP) to help her adjust to her integrated co-teaching classroom. Since 1988, PIP has helped educators reexamine, refresh and sharpen their skills with the help of a peer intervenor, an experienced educator who can help a fellow professional regain their footing through a collaborative relationship built on trust and confidentiality.

Therapeutic reunion

More than 30 years ago, Antoinette Messina, now retired, taught an immigrant boy to speak English. In a simple twist of fate, that boy, who grew up to be a physical therapist, today is teaching Messina to walk again.

Ready for remote

As COVID-19 ravaged New York City and forced schools to shut down, Brian Nagy enjoyed a unique position. He was ready for remote.