UFT-represented educators are eligible for reimbursement for some of their out-of-pocket classroom expenses through Teacher's Choice.

Teachers will each receive $250 in Teacher's Choice money this school year. School counselors, social workers, psychologists, universal literacy coaches and Single Shepherd program employees will receive $110. Occupational and physical therapists and school nurses will receive $95. Lab specialists will receive $85. School secretaries will receive $60.

This year, in a major milestone for the program, Mayor Bill de Blasio and the City Council agreed to allocate funds for Teacher's Choice for the next three years as part of the annual city budget. Their decision was a result of a strong lobbying effort by the UFT and UFT members.

"Having this money in the regular budget gives Teacher's Choice a new and important degree of stability," said UFT President Michael Mulgrew. "We don't have to start from zero each year when lobbying for program funds."
The purchasing period began on Aug. 1 and will continue through mid-January. To receive reimbursement through Teacher's Choice, you must save and submit your receipts as proof of purchase. These receipts must accompany a DOE Statement of Purpose/Accountability form.

Members will receive their Teacher's Choice funds in their last November or first December paycheck. If you receive the funds in your paycheck and do not file an accountability form with required receipts by the deadline, you must return the money to the DOE.

For more information about the Teacher's Choice program, go to Teachers Choice.