United Federation of Teachers

United Federation of Teachers. The United Federation of Teachers is the sole labor union representing most educators and other professionals within the New York City Department of Education. An influential affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers and the AFL–CIO, it is one of the largest local unions in the United States. Its activities encompass collective bargaining, political lobbying, and providing extensive services to its members across the boroughs of New York City.

History

The union was formed in 1960 through the merger of earlier teacher organizations, including the Teachers Guild. Its first major victory was winning collective bargaining rights for New York City public school teachers after a pivotal one-day strike in 1960. Under its founding president, Albert Shanker, the UFT gained national prominence following the Ocean Hill–Brownsville crisis, a series of strikes in 1968 over issues of community control and teacher rights. Throughout the late 20th century, it engaged in numerous job actions, including a major strike in 1975 during the New York City fiscal crisis. The union has continually evolved, negotiating landmark contracts and expanding its membership to include paraprofessionals, secretaries, and other school-based titles.

Leadership and structure

The union is led by an elected president, with Michael Mulgrew serving in that role since 2009 following the tenure of Randi Weingarten, who later became president of the American Federation of Teachers. Its governance includes an executive board and a delegate assembly, with chapters in individual schools. The UFT operates from its headquarters at 52 Broadway in Manhattan and maintains additional borough offices. Key divisions within its structure handle functions such as grievances, special education advocacy, and retirement planning for members. The union also oversees the UFT Welfare Fund, which administers benefit programs.

Political activity and influence

The UFT is a formidable force in New York State and municipal politics, routinely endorsing candidates and lobbying the New York State Legislature, the New York City Council, and the Mayor of New York City. It has historically maintained strong ties with the Democratic Party, supporting figures like Ed Koch, David Dinkins, and Bill de Blasio. The union's political action committee, UFT COPE, funds campaigns and mobilizes members for elections. Its influence extends to state education policy, often clashing with officials like Governors George Pataki and Andrew Cuomo over issues such as charter schools, teacher evaluation, and state testing.

Contract negotiations and member benefits

The union negotiates a comprehensive collective bargaining agreement with the New York City Department of Education and the Mayor's Office, covering salaries, working conditions, and health benefits. These contracts have established citywide salary scales, limits on class size, and due process protections through a tenure system. Member benefits include robust health insurance through the New York City Health Benefits Program, legal services, and professional development courses. The UFT also provides a network of borough-based member assistance programs and operates the annual UFT Spring Conference for educators.

Controversies and criticism

The union has faced significant criticism from various quarters, including education reform advocates, some parent groups, and political opponents. Major points of contention have included its defense of teacher tenure and seniority rules, such as the "last in, first out" layoff policy, and its opposition to the expansion of charter schools in New York City. The union's powerful role in blocking the release of individual teacher performance data and its resistance to certain accountability measures have been controversial. Internal dissent has also occurred, with caucuses like Movement of Rank and File Educators (MORE) challenging leadership strategies and contract agreements.

Category:American Federation of Teachers Category:Education in New York City Category:Labor unions in New York City