Every September thousands of new teachers enter our classrooms — this year it is estimated that some 5,200 educators will be teaching in New York City public schools for the first time. And to them, we extend a hearty welcome.

You are in good company. You are joining the ranks of tens of thousands of educators who share your desire to give back to the community. What you will accomplish in the classroom will reach far and wide. The butterfly effect has been described as the large effect of small actions — the idea that the flutter of a butterfly’s wings can affect weather systems around the world. It’s a perfect metaphor for the outsized impact teachers have on the lives of their students and communities.

The UFT is here to help you accomplish great things. As many of you saw from the UFT Teacher Center-led workshops during New Teacher Week at the end of August, the union has a wealth of expertise in all aspects of teaching and learning. The union also runs support groups for new teachers, debt clinics to help teachers manage student debt and workshops on preparing a tenure portfolio.

Your chapter leader is a wonderful source of information and support. You’ll meet fellow UFT members who will be eager to share their knowledge and experience. Collaboration and respect drive what we do in the classroom.

As you navigate the difficult first few years, remember that the UFT is here to help you and your students take flight.