Former District 18 Representative Richard Mantell was elected the UFT’s new vice president for middle schools by the union’s Executive Board at its Sept. 23 meeting. He replaces Richard Farkas, who recently retired.

Mantell grew up, attended school and has spent his entire career working in Brooklyn’s Canarsie and East Flatbush neighborhoods. After one year of teaching 1st grade in the district’s PS 276, he moved to IS 68, where he has worked since 1989. A middle school math teacher, Mantell eventually became the school’s UFT chapter leader and dean.

Mantell began his work at the UFT in 2004, as a part-time staffer in the union’s grievance department. He was appointed District 18 Representative in 2006.

“As a middle school teacher for many years, I understand the unique challenges both middle school teachers and students face,” Mantell said. “And as a union rep, I’ve learned how to confront them.”

As a vice president, Mantell said he plans to be as active in the schools as possible, making frequent visits to meet with members across the five boroughs. Already, he said, “I’m scheduling meetings to keep our members engaged in our profession and our union and to make sure they understand their rights as teachers and public employees.”

Another major focus of his work as middle school vice president will be helping middle school teachers navigate the new teacher evaluation system, he said.

UFT President Michael Mulgrew praised Mantell as a capable leader who “has served our union with great skill for many years and undoubtedly will meet the challenges of his new position head-on.”