Thanks to the union’s advocacy, UFT-represented educators will be reimbursed for some out-of-pocket expenses through Teacher’s Choice at the same levels as the previous school year. Teachers will once again receive about $250.

As part of its expanded offerings of mental health support for members and their families, MAP formed a partnership with HelloHero, a clinical organization offering long-term, high-quality mental health care for adults and children. 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is offering financial assistance of up to $9,000 per burial to those who have paid for funeral expenses due to COVID-19.

Eligible educators can deduct from their federal income taxes up to $250 of unreimbursed expenses from 2021 for books, supplies, computer equipment (including related software and services), other equipment and supplementary materials they use in the classroom, according to the IRS.

The UFT’s borough office on Staten Island is moving, with the new location at 1200 South Ave. in the Bloomfield section expected to open in February.

If you rely on open windows for good ventilation in your classroom, you will still need to keep a few windows cracked open a few inches even though it’s getting colder.