UFT Exec Board unanimously passes resolution as calls to close schools on December 23rd grow
UFT Executive Board unanimously passes resolution calling for the closure of schools on December 23rd as number of signatures on student petition grow
UNITY/UFT Caucus is strongly advocating for a significant change to the NYC Public Schools calendar for the 2024 winter break. Specifically, we are pushing for Monday, December 23, 2024, to be included as part of the winter break. We are happy to report that last night, the UFT Executive Board unanimously passed a resolution calling for the closure of schools on that date.
Part of the resolution goes on to state :
Whereas closing schools on this day would reduce absenteeism and improve instructional outcomes, as students and families would be less likely to miss school for vacation or holiday travel; and
Whereas closing schools on December 23rd would alleviate the financial burden on the school system, as there would be reduced costs for food, transportation, and utilities; and
Whereas a student petition has been launched to support closing schools on December 23rd;
Therefore, be it resolved that the Chancellor of NYC Public Schools and the Board of Education should close schools on Monday, December 23, 2024, to provide students and families with an uninterrupted winter break and reduce costs for the school system.”
In 2023, the union achieved a significant milestone by negotiating a contract that released three years of school calendars in advance. This unprecedented move provided substantial benefits to all stakeholders within the school system, offering greater predictability and allowing for better planning. The UNITY/UFT Caucus believes that including December 23rd in the winter break aligns with this spirit of forward-thinking and family-centered policies.
If you agree, please sign the petition
