UFT Executive Board Meeting Notes - February 23, 2026

The meeting was called to order by UFT Secretary Mike Sill.

Open microphone period - no speakers.

The board proceeded with the approval of three sets of minutes from previous meetings. The board voted unanimously in favor, with multiple members voicing their approval.

President’s Report

UFT President Michael Mulgrew provided critical information and guidance regarding the storm situation. He explained that the city had transitioned from what was expected to be a traditional snow day to a decision by City Hall and the Department of Education to keep schools open despite receiving more snow than anticipated. President Mulgrew stated that the union did not agree with this decision but acknowledged that, under mayoral control, the city has the authority to make such determinations.

Key Points from President Mulgrew

✔ The city expects low attendance from both students and staff

✔ The Chancellor confirmed that transportation issues would be handled with understanding

✔ Members have union protections and the right to make personal safety decisions

✔ No one can be forced to come to work if they determine it’s unsafe

✔ The Department of Sanitation assured overnight cleanup operations

✔ Schools and custodians had completed their preparation work

Transportation Delay Procedures

Mike Sill provided detailed guidance on the proper procedures for members experiencing transportation difficulties. He explained that members unable to reach work due to extraordinary transportation delays should complete Form OP-201 for pedagogical staff or Form PD-19 for paraprofessionals and administrative employees. While these forms technically cover up to three hours of delay, precedent exists for full-day absences in extraordinary circumstances, such as when the BQE was flooded for an entire day in the past.

Question Period

Ashley Rzonca, Executive Board at Large, raised concerns about the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) suspension and the impact on members facing three-hour travel delays. She inquired whether affected members should use CAR days or personal days. The response clarified the OP-201 process and emphasized that members should apply for extraordinary transportation delay status rather than using their personal leave time.

Shawn Ramos reported receiving numerous questions from District 31 members on the same topic and requested clarification on the procedures. Mike Sill reiterated the explanation of non-attendance days and the OP-201 application process, emphasizing that these are paid days with no deductions when approved for extraordinary transportation delays.

Lamar Hughes raised questions about members who live outside the five boroughs and the practical challenges of parking after snow plowing operations. He noted that parking availability is often overlooked in emergency planning. The response acknowledged these concerns and confirmed that the city expects low attendance but has not provided specific solutions for parking challenges. Members were advised to use public transportation when possible and to document any delays using the OP-201 form.

Daniel Rodrigez, sought clarification on grievance procedures when OP-201 forms are denied or delayed. He noted that principals can only approve up to three hours, with superintendent approval required for longer absences. Mark Collins provided comprehensive guidance on filing timelines: members should file grievances within 30 school days of a denial and within three months of becoming aware of any payroll issues, though prompt action is encouraged. He emphasized that members should take affirmative action and file grievances if informal resolution is not possible.

Tracy Ivanic inquired about the Department of Education’s response to concerns about Class Size and the Central DOE placing more than 20 students in classes despite class-size reduction requirements. Mike Sill reported that this matter was discussed with the DOE earlier that day. The DOE is enrolling students at rates based on outdated class-size limitations rather than the new requirements, particularly affecting kindergarten, 6th-grade, and 9th-grade classes. The union expects a response from the DOE within the week, especially for schools where reduced class sizes were part of their submitted plans.

Rich Mantell, VP for Middle Schools (Passover Seder Observance) brought forward an important question regarding religious observance for Passover in 2026. He noted that the first Seder falls on April 1st, which is a school day this year. Unlike previous years when spring break began the day before the first Seder, this year’s calendar places the Seder on a school day, requiring religious observance accommodation.

Passover Religious Observance Policy:Mike Sill explained the historical precedent for this situation. In years when spring break starts the day before the first Seder, the day before that is typically not granted as religious observance. However, in years like 2026 when the first Seder falls on a school day, that day is granted as a religious observance day. This policy has been in place for decades. Sill confirmed that he had already reached out to the DOE to ensure they were aware of this situation and to prevent principals from causing difficulties for members applying for this day. The DOE acknowledged awareness and committed to appropriate messaging in the Personnel Digest.

District Activities & Events

Nancy Aromando, Executive Board at Large, reported on upcoming professional development opportunities for Districts 15 and 20:

Wednesday Workshop: FBA BIP (Functional Behavioral Assessment/Behavior Intervention Plan) data collection workshop via Zoom with Steven Minster

March 3rd Presentation: Tom Brown will present on pensions at PS 24 in District 15

Raul Garcia announced that next week will be Social Worker Appreciation Week. He encouraged members to show appreciation to social workers they encounter. The UFT will host its 10th Annual Social Worker Appreciation Day event at the union headquarters on Friday, 3/6. Garcia noted this is consistently one of the most well-attended appreciation events.

Elizabeth Perez announced that the Jewish Heritage Committee will host a Purim celebration on Thursday at 5:00 PM at the Brooklyn office. All members are welcome to attend this cultural celebration.

Mavis Yon reported on the Muslim Educators’ Third Annual Ramadan Iftar Dinner scheduled for Friday. Tickets are $30, with doors opening at 4:30 PM and the event running from 5:00 PM onward. This annual event provides an opportunity for community building and cultural celebration.

Sheryl Pender, Secretary Chapter Leader, announced that the Manhattan Secretary Meet and Greet originally scheduled for Wednesday, February 25th has been rescheduled due to the storm. The new date is March 18th at Whitehorse Tavern on Stone Street. A rescheduling email is being sent out, and an updated flyer with a new link will be distributed. All leaders are invited to attend and support their secretaries.

Karen Alford reported on the successful African Heritage Dinner Dance held just before the break. Mavis Yon was honored as the recipient of the Frederick Douglass Award. The event also provided student scholarships, with recipients receiving funds for college as well as laptops. Alford thanked the many board members who attended and supported the event, describing it as a wonderful evening.

Legislative Report and Special Order of Business

Vanecia Wilson provided the legislative report, which tied directly into the special order of business regarding a city council endorsement.

City Council Support for Snow Day

Wilson reported that several city council members have been supportive of not having an in-person school day following the storm. These council members have been actively pushing back against the decision and speaking out publicly about their concerns. She noted that a Change.org petition regarding the issue had garnered over 70,000 signatures.

Special Election - City Council District 3

A special election has been called for April 28, 2026, to fill the vacant seat in City Council District 3. This seat was previously held by Eric Botcher, who won a special election for State Senate, creating the vacancy.

Wilson presented a resolution endorsing Carl Wilson for New York City Council District 3. The resolution outlined the UFT’s commitment to supporting candidates who strengthen public education and uplift working families.

Marquis A. Harrison, Executive Board at Large and Manhattan PAC representative, spoke in strong support of the endorsement. He reported that he had the opportunity to interview all or most of the candidates running for the district. Harrison emphasized that Carl Wilson was “by far very knowledgeable” about both the district and the schools within it. Wilson has already signed on to the power pledge in advance, demonstrating alignment with the UFT’s agenda. Harrison quoted Wilson as wanting to be “our council member,” indicating his commitment to representing the interests of educators and the union.

The resolution was moved and seconded. With no further debate, the board voted unanimously in favor of endorsing Carl Wilson for City Council District 3.

Adjournment

A motion to adjourn was made and seconded. Mike Sill confirmed that the next Executive Board meeting is scheduled for March 9, 2026.