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Frequently Asked Questions

Search for answers to your frequently asked questions by entering keywords in the search bar or choosing a category from the pull down menu above. 

A list of the most commonly asked questions.

How do I know if the UFT has received my SHIP application?

We strive to have all applications processed as soon after the date of retirement as possible, but due to a high volume of applicants, please allow for up to one week's processing time. You will receive a welcome packet once your SHIP enrollment is finalized. If there are any issues with your application that may hold up your application, we will notify you via email.

What does it mean to be employed in an F-status position?

To be "F-status" means you are working as a per diem employee engaged for a full term but for less than five full days per week (e.g., 2 days every week). The full/part-time employee receives a salary pro-rated for the time worked at 1/200th of the salary step (up to step 4A including differentials) that would be entitled on a full time basis. After serving 60 full days, the F-status teacher will earn three vacation days and for each 20 days thereafter one additional day is earned up to a maximum of nine vacation days.

How can I find the DOE payroll portal?

The DOE Payroll Portal allows you to see your salary information, pay stubs and other personal information. See more information about the DOE Payroll Portal. You must log in with your DOE email and password to access the site. 

Can a parent record an IEP meeting?

Yes, the parent can make an audio recording of the IEP team meeting if the parent requests permission to make the recording in writing to the principal or chairperson at least one business day before the IEP meeting. If the parent makes an audio recording of the IEP meeting, the school/CSE will also make an audio recording of the meeting.

For more information see the DOE's Special Education Standard Operating Procedures Manual and see the topic: "The IEP Team, Members Required at All IEP Meetings, Recording the IEP Meeting"

 

How do I get a job working in a New York City public school?

Aspiring teachers will find more information about various pathways for certified and uncertified teachers here: https://www.schools.nyc.gov/careers/teachers/aspiring-teachers.

You can find more information, including an application, on the NYC DOE website here: http://teachnyc.net,  but don’t stop there! Make a list of schools you’d like to work in and send an individualized cover letter and resume to the principal.

Social workers, guidance counselors, and psychologists will find information about working for the DOE here: https://www.schools.nyc.gov/careers/social-workers-guidance-counselors-and-psychologists.

Learn about other jobs in schools here: https://www.schools.nyc.gov/careers/other-jobs-in-schools.

You can find information about each school by entering an address, school code or name here: https://schoolsearch.schools.nyc.

What benefits do paraprofessionals who belong to the Teachers’ Retirement System (TRS) receive?

Before you retire you have:

  • The right to borrow from your TRS account.
  • The right to participate in the TRS tax-deferred annuity program.
  • Benefits for your family if you die after one year of service.

After you retire you receive:

  • A guaranteed pension check every month for life.
  • Medical, dental and optical benefits to protect your family, for most retirees.
  • If you choose, optional benefits to protect your family after your death.
  • If you have at least 10 years of credited service and disability forces you to retire early, you may be eligible for disability retirement income.
  • The ability to join SHIP, the UFT's Supplemental Health Insurance Program.
Where can I find the DOE Chancellor's Regulations?

Many are posted on the DOE website, organized by both subject and regulation number. 

What does excessing mean for an untenured teacher?

Even as an untenured teacher, excessing does not mean that you are out of a job. When you are excessed, you lose your position in your school, but you do not lose your job, your salary or your medical benefits. You will have the opportunity to find another position, and if you do not, you will be placed in a school in your district, or elsewhere in your borough if there is a school with a vacancy or a long-term leave coverage need in your license area.

I am an ENL teacher. Can a school excess a teacher if it would put them in non-compliance?

No, schools must meet the mandates for special education and ENL. Sometimes schools attempt to excess a person who is mandated in order for a school to be in compliance, but DOE reviews those excesses and often stops them from happening.

I am a pre-K/3K teacher. What will happen to me regarding excessing?

There could be an excessing condition at a given 3-K/pre-K site. In such a case, excessing would be done in reverse seniority order. Early childhood-licensed teachers are grouped with common branch teachers, so the least senior teachers with those two licenses would be excessed.