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Frequently Asked Questions

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A list of the most commonly asked questions.

What is the Initial Planning Conference (IPC) and how does it affect my observations and evaluations for the year?

An IPC is an in-person conversation with an evaluator conducted at a mutually-agreed upon time no later than the last Friday in October. The IPC gives teachers an opportunity to discuss previous evaluations, current classes, and plans for the coming year.

Do I have to set teaching goals or select a particular area to focus on at my Initial Planning Conference (IPC)?

No, but you can, if you would like to discuss that with your evaluator. Teachers have sole discretion for setting goals and/or selecting an area of focus.

When will my classroom observations take place? What are the “windows”/time frame for evaluation?

Administrators can observe teachers for evaluative purposes at any time after the Initial Planning Conference and then through the first Friday in June. In addition, half the required minimum number of observations must take place in the fall term and half in the spring. You should not be observed during the spring window until you receive the final required evaluator form for all required observations during the fall window. 

Here are the specific timelines:
Fall Window: From the Initial Planning Conference to the last day of the fall term
Spring Window: From the start of the spring term to the first Friday in June

What if I have not received all my observation results for the Fall Window -- can I still be observed in the Spring?

It depends. They cannot observe you until you have received the required Fall observations. This means that if there were more than the required number, but you have not yet received the results for the additional observations, they can observe you.

What is the summative conference? When will it occur? How can it impact my evaluation?

The summative conference is a face-to-face conversation between teacher and evaluator conducted between the last Friday in April and the last Friday in June. This gives you an opportunity to talk about the observations that occurred throughout the year, answer any questions your supervisor has, and discuss the evaluations you have already received. 

Can my principal conduct an observation without letting me know ahead of time?

Yes.

Can I turn my principal/administrator away if s/he shows up to observe me?

No. 

What are grievances used for?

The grievance procedure is there to protect your rights and ensure that the contract is adhered to. You can file a grievance in order to remedy a violation of the UFT/DOE contract or DOE regulation, circular or established practice. Your chapter leader can help you identify the appropriate article or rule that has been violated. Our contract provides members the right to file a grievance if they believe their rights have been violated. Before filing a grievance, it is a good idea to speak with your chapter leader to discuss different ways the issue can be resolved.

Learn more about grievances »

Is filing a grievance the only way to resolve an issue with a school administrator?

Not at all. Before filing a grievance, it is always a good idea to speak with your chapter leader about resolving the issue informally. Our contract also provides for a number of other ways to resolve issues including the operational process for paperwork and other school bases issues, the APPR complaint process for evaluation issues and professional conciliation on the educational issues listed in the contract.

How do I file a grievance?

If you believe your contractual rights have been violated, you should contact your chapter leader for advice and assistance. The chapter leader will enter your grievance in the UFT grievance system and provide both you and your principal with a copy. Your chapter leader will also accompany you to and represent you at your Step 1 grievance hearing with the principal and explain the process to you.

Learn more about grievances »