Study shows UFT-DOE teacher leader program is a model to follow

In 2013–14, the United Federation of Teachers and the New York City Department of Education created a  teacher leadership/career pathway program to expand teachers’ voice  in their schools.

A study of the program recently released by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and the International Institute for Educational Planning (UNESCO-IIEP) found that it had a positive impact on teacher satisfaction and retention, teacher voice and collaboration, and overall school culture.

“As educators, we know — and as this study bears out — that empowering the people in the classroom is the best way to invigorate school communities and create better conditions for teaching and learning,” said UFT President Michael Mulgrew. “With 1,291 teacher leaders changing the culture in 602 New York City public schools, we think New York City has valuable lessons to share.”

The program helped retain valued teachers. A 2014–15 survey found 98 percent of the teacher leaders remained in New York City public schools. In addition, Principals reported the program improved their ability to attract and retain teachers.