UFT members who volunteered in shelters during Hurricane Sandy and were not paid for all hours worked have won their right to be paid, thanks to a union-initiated grievance.

The grievance challenged the Department of Education’s decision that it would be paying employees who worked in shelters only for hours worked outside of their normal workday, even if the schools were closed on those days.

The union pointed out in its grievance that the policy was tantamount to lengthening the work year without additional pay for educators who stepped up to help in shelters since members who stayed home that day were also paid.

Members who have previously submitted documentation of their work in shelters should receive payment within 90 days. Members who have not previously submitted their documentation of shelter work to the DOE will have 30 days from the date that the DOE provides the union with details on submitting time cards or time sheets.

If you have any questions, please contact your borough office.

Update, May 16:

The UFT and the DOE have agreed on a one time basis to pay these members at the per session rate. These members should have already received a timecard from the Office of Emergency Management (OEM). These timecards cards must be submitted to the DOE no later than June 19.

Members who have previously submitted documentation of their work in shelters are not required to take further action at this timeand should receive payment within 90 days.

Original timecards issued by OEM can be dropped off at 65 Court Street, Room 1400, Brooklyn, NY 11201 or sent via mail with a return receipt to: Ms. Francine Perkins-Colón, NYC Department of Education, Office of Payroll, Administration, 65 Court Street, Room 1400, Brooklyn, NY  11201.

Please retain a copy of the timecard for your records. The timecard must clearly indicate your name, regular work location, shelter site location, the specific hours worked and your identification number (this is the reference number listed on all paystubs).  

If you have any questions, please email SandyShelterVolunteerPayment@schools.nyc.gov or contact your UFT borough office.