As a New York City public school educator, you are fortunate to not only teach in the nation’s largest and most diverse school system but also to have the support of a long-established union. If you need help of any kind, please call the union at 212-331-6311. Here are just a few of the rights, benefits and supports that the UFT has to offer:
Employment: Learning all about your salary steps, license, educational differentials and New York State certification requirements can be daunting, but union representatives are here to help. Call the UFT and ask to speak to a certification or salary specialist. See our guide to certification for new teachers as well as our main certification page.
Health: In addition to the health insurance provided by the city, you have a host of other benefits (dental, prescription drugs, optical and hearing) through the UFT Welfare Fund. Visit the health benefits section of our website to learn more.
Mental health: The UFT's Member Assistance Program (MAP) has trained professional counselors who can help you if you are dealing with any mental health issues and a new 24/7 helpline for members in crisis. The services are free and confidential. For more information, contact MAP at 212-701-9620.
Professional support: The UFT Teacher Center operates in 225 school-based sites throughout New York City. The Teacher Center supports new teachers by providing high-quality professional learning opportunities in schools and citywide. Keep an eye on your personal email for invitations from the union to in-person and virtual Teacher Center workshops, and check our website for upcoming courses and workshops.
Student debt: The union’s Student Debt Relief Program, a benefit exclusively for UFT members, can help you reduce your debt burden. You can learn more and sign up for an introductory webinar online.
Legal issues: The Legal Services Plan offers UFT members access to free or discounted legal assistance. If you or a family member need help reviewing a lease, making a will, establishing a power of attorney or managing other legal concerns, call 212-331-6325.
Concerns regarding students: The UFT established the Building Respect, Acceptance and Voice through Education (BRAVE) hotline to combat bullying and support students with mental health issues. Let your students know they can contact BRAVE by phone, text or online chat.
- Call: 917-727-1908
- Text: 43961
- Chat online at www.uft.org/BRAVEchat.
Student academic support: Dial-A-Teacher provides live homework help from a teacher to students in kindergarten to 12th grade between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday, when school is in session. Support is available in all subjects and in many languages at 212-777-3380.
When you’re a member of a union, you're never alone, and the UFT has ample resources to help you flourish in your chosen profession — both this school year and throughout your career. If you haven't already joined the union, learn how to enroll.