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Free legal assistance for UFT retirees
The UFT Welfare Fund Retiree Legal Plan with Elder Law Supplement offers many benefits, but the five that UFT retirees use the most are assistance with estate planning, elder law, civil litigation, real estate and matrimonial law.
COVID monitoring, testing to continue
UFT President Michael Mulgrew told the Delegate Assembly on March 23 that while members should not let down their guard regarding COVID-19 protocols, the situation continues to improve.
Google Chrome extensions for educators
There are many reasons for using Google’s Chrome browser — it’s generally fast and integrates seamlessly with Google programs you may use such as Google Classroom. But there is another good reason: the ability to add Chrome extensions.
Nurture yourself
Whether it’s the winter doldrums, the news of the day or the hectic pace of work, there are many reasons you may be feeling overwhelmed. And while it may sound counterintuitive, slowing down and taking the time to nurture yourself can help you...
Leaves and Absences
Under the UFT-DOE contract, teachers and other members have varying rights to absences, leaves and sabbaticals.
Elementary School Division
Welcome to the UFT Elementary School Division hub!
Nominate a UFT colleague for a 2020 Paraprofessional Award
Each year, the UFT recognizes outstanding paraprofessionals who have made contributions to their school, their community and their union. Please use the link below to nominate a full-time paraprofessional for this award. The nomination deadline is...
What's the difference between terminal leave and termination pay?
Termination Pay: You retire with all your Cumulative Absent Reserve (CAR) days and are paid out for half your days at your daily rate. Terminal Leave: You use your CAR days, every 2 days in reserve counting as one day, to stay on payroll and retire...
What information do I need to enter on my application for the Retired Teachers Chapter?
When filling out your application to join the Retired Teachers Chapter (RTC), please include your name, file number/UFT ID number, exact retirement date, current contact information and pension provider. To avoid a delay in processing, please...
How does the mail order program work for prescription medications?
Maintenance medications (those taken regularly over an extended period) cannot be filled in monthly quantities after they have been filled three (3) times (original prescription plus two (2) refills), regardless of the number of refills indicated on...
SESIS grievance form
If you have performed SESIS-related activities at home because you have been directed to do so, you can file a grievance within thirty (30) school days from the time you were instructed to perform the activity.
How can I fulfill DASA training requirements?
You must complete six hours of coursework from a provider approved by the New York State Education Department. You can find a list of approved providers at the NYSED website. The UFT is an approved provider and offers this course; see the UFT Courses...
When will my classroom observations take place? What are the “windows”/time frame for evaluation?
Administrators can observe teachers for evaluative purposes at any time after the Initial Planning Conference and then through the first Friday in June. In addition, half the required minimum number of observations must take place in the fall term...
Can staff members request that a child be initially evaluated for special education services?
A teacher, or other professional staff member, may request that a child be evaluated by completing the Request for Referral form (in SESIS). After receiving the request, the principal must take one of two actions within 10 school days: (1) request...
How do I change my name on record with the UFT?
You must provide a legal document (marriage certificate, etc.) for proof of name change. If you receive Welfare Fund benefits, you should fill out the fill out the Welfare Fund’s Change of Status Form on the UFT website to change your name. If you...
How does a dependent or spouse claim pension funds if a UFT member passes?
If they are the retiree's pension beneficiary, they can contact the Teachers' Retirement System (TRS) and the UFT Pension Department. A member's beneficiary (or representative) must first submit a certified or original death certificate to TRS for...
Guide to Salary Steps and Salary Differentials
This guide explains how teachers can apply for salary step placement and differentials, and provides salary differential information for school social workers, school psychologists, guidance counselors and laboratory specialists.
OLR guidance on SBOs and contractual workday
DOE Office of Labor Relations Guidance: UFT Contractual Workday and School-Based Options, updated yearly.
Appendix B — New Continuum Dispute Resolution
MEMORANDUM TO: All Superintendents, Executive Directors, Principals, Assistant Principals, UFT District Representatives, UFT Chapter Leaders, CSA Chairpersons FROM: Francine B. Goldstein, Chief Executive, School Programs and Support Services SUBJECT...
Appendix C — New Continuum Dispute Resolution
MEMORANDUM TO: All Superintendents, Executive Directors, Principals, Assistant Principals, UFT District Representatives, UFT Chapter Leaders, CSA Chairpersons FROM: Francine B. Goldstein, Chief Executive, School Programs and Support Services SUBJECT...
Appendix C — New Continuum Dispute Resolution
MEMORANDUM TO: All Superintendents, Executive Directors, Principals, Assistant Principals, UFT District Representatives, UFT Chapter Leaders, CSA Chairpersons FROM: Francine B. Goldstein, Chief Executive, School Programs and Support Services SUBJECT...
Appendix B — New Continuum Dispute Resolution
MEMORANDUM TO: All Superintendents, Executive Directors, Principals, Assistant Principals, UFT District Representatives, UFT Chapter Leaders, CSA Chairpersons FROM: Francine B. Goldstein, Chief Executive, School Programs and Support Services SUBJECT...
Appendix C — New Continuum Dispute Respolution
MEMORANDUM TO: All Superintendents, Executive Directors, Principals, Assistant Principals, UFT District Representatives, UFT Chapter Leaders, CSA Chairpersons FROM: Francine B. Goldstein, Chief Executive, School Programs and Support Services SUBJECT...
Appendix A — New Continuum Dispute Resolution Memorandum
TO: All Superintendents, Executive Directors, Principals, Assistant Principals, UFT District Representatives, UFT Chapter Leaders, CSA Chairpersons FROM: Francine B. Goldstein, Chief Executive, School Programs and Support Services SUBJECT: Special...
Medicare 101: All you need to know
Signing up for Medicare involves more than just checking a box on a form; there are multiple parts to Medicare, and rules and premiums vary.
A Parent's Guide to Special Education Services (Kindergarten Supplement)
Moving from preschool to kindergarten marks the start of an exciting new chapter in your child’s life. We know that you may have questions about this transition and we hope that many of them will be answered here.
When can I file a grievance?
In most cases, a grievance must be filed within 30 school days from the time you have knowledge of the act or condition that violates the contract. However, in certain types of grievances, the time limits are shorter. For example, all reorganization...
Article Twelve — Professional Concerns
12.1 Job Descriptions. Specific job descriptions for all Licensed Practical Nurse job classifications shall be maintained and shall be made conveniently available to all Licensed Practical Nurses in each Region/Program office in which Employees are...
Can teachers take time off for religious observance for important holidays in their faith?
Yes. You may use your three personal business days for religious observance. These will be deducted from your CAR (sick bank) or you may take a pay deduction for each day that you do not report to work. The deducted amount will equal the amount that...
Does New York State offer loan forgiveness programs for new teachers?
Newly hired teachers and school clinicians in certain shortage areas in select districts may be eligible for the Department of Education Loan Forgiveness Program for their student loans. Your DOE hire date must be between Sept. 3 and Nov. 15 of the...
Appellate court rules on city's Medicare Advantage plan
A state appellate court recently issued a ruling regarding city retiree health care.