Why I Am Running Under UNITY: Advocating for Students with Disabilities

Written by: Steven Mintzer

As a special educator who has dedicated my career to District 75, and as a parent of a child with an IEP, I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges our students face. I’m running under UNITY because I believe in the collective power of advocacy, and I know that together, we can push for the changes our students deserve. Over the years, I’ve seen tangible improvements, and I want to continue this fight to ensure that every child with a disability receives the support they need.

The recent strides we've made in special education are thanks to the tireless work of leaders like Carmen Alvarez and Mary Jo Ginese, and the dedication of our members under UNITY's leadership. The 2023 contract brought several key changes that demonstrate our commitment to accountability and better support for special education.

Here are four important pieces that were added to the contract to address Special Education:

1. Annual Rules and Regulations Training – A jointly created training that highlights the rules and regulations while debunking common urban myths.

2. Special Education Committee – Modeled after the consultation committee, this committee provides chapter leaders with dedicated spaces in the fall, spring, and as needed, to address global concerns affecting special education in schools.

3. Functional Grouping of Students – In District 75 schools, each spring, prior to the creation of programs for the following school year, principals or their designees will make time to hear recommendations regarding the functional grouping of students.

4. Assessments – When administering District 75 assessments, a guidance document will be shared annually, including a non-exhaustive list of possible staffing options to ensure continuity of instruction during assessment periods.

Our Students with Disabilities section on the UFT website is an invaluable resource that equips our members with the tools they need to advocate for both the students they serve and the work they do. Here are some key highlights:

1. 2014 SESIS Arbitration – The 2014 SESIS Arbitration decision grants teachers the ability to request adjustments to their schedules to better accommodate the heavy workload of SESIS documentation. This ruling ensures that our members have the time and support they need to complete their essential work.
   More info here.

2. IEP Meetings During Prep Periods – If an IEP meeting occurs during your preparation period, you are entitled to compensation for it. This ruling has been in effect since the 2001-2002 school year.
   Learn more here.

3. Special Education Compliance Complaint – If there is an unresolved issue regarding a student's IEP at the school level, it’s crucial to know that anyone who advocates for the educational needs of the student—including parents—has the right to file a special education compliance complaint. This process ensures that students get the IEP-mandated services they need.
   Details here.

As one of the UFT liaisons to the Division of Inclusive and Accessible Learning, I’ve had the privilege of supporting thousands of members and students across hundreds of schools. Together with my fellow liaisons, Raphael Tomkin and Elizabeth McGovern, we have worked tirelessly to resolve issues and ensure our students receive the support they deserve. The fight for compliance and fairness will never stop, but it’s a fight I’m proud to be part of every single day.