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What is the difference between a Family Medical Leave Act (FLMLA) leave and a contractual DOE leave? Do I have to apply for both?
The FMLA applies to all employees who have worked for 12 months or 1,250 hours. The FMLA and UFT-bargained leaves run concurrently, so you only apply for the contractual leave.
I am in the army reserve and have just been told to report for duty. How do I notify the DOE?
Send an email to your principal, cc your payroll secretary and chapter leader and apply for a military leave on SOLAS.
Why should I become a member of the UFT? What is the benefit of joining?
As a member, you have access to valuable benefits and rights to a voice in your professional life that nonmembers don’t have. You can participate in money-saving group insurance plans and low-cost legal and financial service plans and you can get...
Who needs to be certified?
Classroom teachers, administrative and supervisory personnel, paraprofessionals and pupil personnel service professionals are required to hold a certificate issued by New York State in order to be employed in the state's public schools. Certificates...
I am changing careers. Is there an easier way for me to get certified?
You may be interested in an alternative teacher certification program specifically designed for career changers. While you must meet all coursework and other requirements, these programs offer a time-shortened, intensive preparation program operated...
I hold a certificate from another state. Do I still have to apply for a New York State teacher certificate?
Yes, you must hold a New York State certificate to teach in the state's public schools. Reciprocity under the Interstate Agreement of Qualification of Educational Personnel is limited to coursework requirements only. You must complete any examination...
Must I wait until I have completed all requirements for a certificate before applying for an individual evaluation?
No. As long as you hold the minimum degree (usually a bachelor's degree, with a minimum 2.5 GPA) required for a certificate, you may submit an application at any time. In order to receive a written evaluation of your status for a certificate you must...
I hold Initial Certificates in more than one subject (i.e., Childhood Education, Grades 1-6 and English, Grades 7-12). Must I teach for three years in each subject area to meet the three-year experience requirement for a Professional certificate?
No. An individual who holds more than one classroom teaching certificate may meet the three-year experience requirement with any three years of classroom teaching experience. For instance, a teacher who holds the Childhood Education (Grades 1-6) and...
May I use online courses to meet certification requirements?
You should be aware that the Office of Teaching Initiatives does not endorse, pre-approve, or accredit programs or coursework completed at institutions located outside the State of New York. Information regarding colleges and universities within New...
Who is required to be fingerprinted?
All applicants for certificates, licensees, or permits must undergo a fingerprint-supported criminal history background check. State law requires the State Education Department to conduct these background checks for all school personnel, including...