The Teacher’s Choice program continues this school year. Eligible UFT-represented educators will receive a reimbursement for some of the supplemental instructional supplies they buy.

The city Department of Education had not released the precise allotments for each job title as of Aug. 28, when the September edition of the New York Teacher went to press, but they are expected to be about the same as they were in the 2023–24 school year.

The city budget includes $20 million for the program, the same level of funding as in the past several years.

The Teacher’s Choice amounts for the 2023–24 school year was $105 for school counselors. The city budget includes $20 million for the program, the same level of funding as in the past several years.

Participants can use the money for general classroom supplies, library books, magazines, musical instruments, science materials, basic athletic supplies, educational learning aids, art and drawing materials and more. They cannot buy furniture, trips, gifts for students or equipment that requires special wiring or installation.

The purchasing period began on Aug. 1, 2024, and will continue until mid-January.

Participants must save receipts as proof of purchase and submit them along with a DOE statement of purpose/accountability form to the school principal or designee. If not, the DOE will take back the money.

Anyone who does not wish to participate in the program must file a request for nonparticipation (opt-out) form.

For more updates, check the Teacher’s Choice section of the UFT website.