Photo-a-day 7: The UFT

As a teacher in New York City I am happy to be a part of the largest teacher's union in the country: The United Federation of Teachers. Last year I become one of the building representatives of my school (a role we officially call Chapter Leader) and started organizing for my staff. Today we hosted our first meeting of the year focusing on the new certification registration guidelines from the NY State Department of Education. The meeting had a variety of people in it - from teachers to paraprofessionals - who all wanted to know about new policies and procedures to make sure you are up-to-date with certification. I even learned that there is a workshop I need to take to get my professional certificate. 

While I don't always agree with some things the UFT does I am certain that I support the right and need for its existence. I'm proud to be a teacher and proud to be a Union leader. I hope to share that pride with others through my new role and learn more about it in the near future.