We supported the city’s decision in 2023 to adopt the science of reading as the way to teach all New York City public school children to read. But educators’ time and expertise must be valued.

This school year, as outside consultants took over most of the training, teachers grew increasingly frustrated with their lack of voice and the lack of support. Chapter leaders across the city complained about redundant spreadsheets and other issues in consultation meetings with their principals. And the UFT headed to the bargaining table to demand changes.

The revised curriculum policy that the DOE announced in early December is a step in the right direction. Teachers now can adjust the pacing calendar, with up to two weeks of flexibility. Teachers also can modify instruction to ensure all students can access the curriculum.

Other changes will allow teachers to focus their time on instruction. The DOE worked with us to streamline assessments. It agreed that there is no need for teachers to download existing digital data and put it into spreadsheets; instead, schools must use the digital tools built into the reading curriculum.

But our work is not complete until the new policy is put into action in every elementary school. UFT chapter leaders and members are engaged and will discuss the new policy in consultation to drive that change.