New York Teachers Unions
In New York teachers are primarily represented by the New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) union and the United Federation of Teachers (UFT). Together, these unions advocate for the rights of educators by focusing on fair wages, workplace protections, and the overall improvement of public education. Both labor unions play a key role in collective bargaining, legislative advocacy, and shaping educational policy to support teachers and enhance learning conditions for students.
New York State United Teachers (NYSUT)
Leadership
- President: Melinda Person
- Executive Vice President: Jamie L. Ciffone
- Second Vice President: Ronald Gross
- Secretary/Treasurer: J. Philippe Abraham
Organization
New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) is a statewide labor union representing over 600,000 professionals, including teachers, school staff, higher education faculty, and healthcare workers, through 1,325 local unions.
Affiliated with the AFT, NEA, and AFL-CIO, NYSUT advocates for quality education, professional development, and fair labor practices. Local unions address district-specific issues, while NYSUT provides statewide support, resources, and advocacy, guided by a Board of Directors and an annual Representative Assembly.
Member Dues
Dues are determined by each local union and typically consist of local, state (NYSUT), and national (AFT/NEA) components. The exact amount varies based on the local’s policies and the member’s role. Union dues cover activities including collective bargaining, legal assistance, and professional development.
Meetings
NYSUT holds an annual Representative Assembly, its highest policy-making body, where delegates from local unions convene to set policies and elect officers. The Board of Directors meets monthly to oversee operations, while various committees meet as needed to address specific issues.
Requirements
Membership is open to professionals in education and healthcare sectors within New York State, including teachers, school-related professionals, higher education faculty, healthcare workers, municipal and state employees, library staff, nonprofit organization employees, and retirees. New members typically join through their local union, which sets specific membership criteria and dues.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: NYSUT offers its members collective bargaining, legal support, and professional development resources. The union also plays an active role in advocating for better funding and policies that support education and healthcare.
- Cons: NYSUT members are required to pay dues, which may be a financial burden for some. Additionally, members may disagree with the union’s political stances or advocacy efforts, creating potential conflicts within the organization.
United Federation of Teachers (UFT)
Leadership
- President: Michael Mulgrew
- Secretary: LeRoy Barr
- Assistant Secretary: Michael Sill
- Treasurer: Victoria Lee
- Assistant Treasurer: Tom Brown
Organization
The United Federation of Teachers (UFT), a local affiliate of NYSUT, represents nearly 200,000 educators, nurses, and other professionals in New York City. The union focuses on negotiating contracts, protecting workplace rights, and improving public school standards. The UFT is governed by an Executive Board and Delegate Assembly and is structured with chapters based on job roles and schools.
Member Dues
Union dues are calculated based on a percentage of the member’s salary, with specific rates varying by job title and salary level. Dues pay for services such as contract negotiations, legal assistance, and other member benefits.
Meetings
The UFT holds monthly Delegate Assembly meetings, where elected representatives from each chapter discuss policies and make decisions. The Executive Board also meets regularly to oversee the union’s operations and various committees convene to address specific issues.
Requirements
Membership is open to education and healthcare professionals employed within New York City, including teachers, paraprofessionals, nurses, and other related roles. Prospective members can join through their specific chapter.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: The UFT provides collective bargaining power to secure better salaries and benefits for its members. It also offers access to legal support and a range of member benefits, including health and welfare services.
- Cons: UFT members are required to pay dues, which could pose a financial burden. The union’s political activities could also lead to potential disagreements among members based on how their dues are spent.
Call to Action
Union membership is a choice. If you decide union membership is not right for you, opting out is easy.