News, Alerts & Events

MEMORANDUM

 

 

Memo To:   All Buffalo Teachers

From:         Philip Rumore, President, BTF

Date:          January 24, 2023 

 

Subject:    Problems with Highmark


As you may know, the problems that many had in receiving required coverage under Highmark BC/BS involved organizations in addition to the Buffalo Teachers Federation and other District employees.

 

We are seeking a New York State and Federal investigation of the causes, how those who were adversely impacted will be compensated and how it will be prevented in the future.

 

We will also be working with others to file a class action complaint against Highmark BC/BS.

 

Please provide us with information relating to the problems you encountered recently relating to being denied the coverage for which you were entitled from Highmark BC/BS. As always, names will not be released.

 

Example:       
Name:                 
Dates:
                   
Issues:
            
 Required Coverage Not Met:
John Doe   01/12/2023   Prescription Coverage   Overcharged $
             

 

Please email all information to Sierra Umhauer at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

 

 

 

Important Information

  • The Annual Professional Performance Review (APPR) Information 

    The APPR is a process by which teachers are evaluated in NYS. The intent of APPR is to assist educators to improve the quality of instruction in schools and to improve students' performance for colleges and careers. District APPR plans must meet strict state guidelines and be negotiated with local unions. Under state guidelines, APPR takes into account classroom observations and student performance. Teachers across NYS receive an overall effectiveness rating every year.

     

    APPR is complex and can often be overwhelming.  Click here to keep up to date on all the current APPR information.

  • Opt-Out Information 

    Teachers and parents share deep concerns about the standardized tests used by NYS for accountability purposes that include; stress on students, in-appropriateness and lack of validity of the Common Core-aligned tests, loss of learning time, and lack of transparency on state test content. Parents who decide it is not in their children’s best interests to take these assessments are part of an “Opt-Out” movement. BTF fully supports parents’ right to choose what is best for their children.

     

    Click here to keep up to date on the "Opt-Out" movement and other information.

  • COVID-19 Information


    For our members, BTF has collected COVID-19 resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization, as well as our affiliates, NYSUT, the American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association. Together we must, and will, be proactive to ensure that Coronavirus does not infect and spread to our students, staff and community.
     
    Click here to view recent information and writen correspondence. The BTF will post more information as it becomes available.

Buffalo Teachers Federation

 officers 2023
 
The Buffalo Teachers Federation is the professional union that represents over 3800 contract, probationary and temporary teachers of the Buffalo Public Schools.

 The BTF is proud to be a member of New York State United Teachers and affiliated nationally with the National Education Association and American Federation of Teachers.
          
 We invite you to explore our website for information and resources specifically for our members and retirees.

Calendar

 March 2025
 13   Executive Committee Meeting - 5:30 pm
 13    Council of Delegates Meeting - 7:00 pm      
 25   BTF Retirement Seminar
 
 April 2025
  11   BTF Office Closed at 4:00 pm
14-21   Spring Recess       
  24   Executive Committee Meeting - 5:30 pm   
  24   Council of Delegates Meeting - 7:00 pm      
     

Office Information

Mailing Address:
Buffalo Teachers Federation
271 Porter Avenue
Buffalo, New York 14201
Phone: 716-881-5400
 
Supplemental Benefit Fund:
Phone: 716-881-5462
Fax:     716-881-0580
 
Hours of Operation:
Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Guests Online

We have 94 guests and no members online

        Did your home address, email address or phone number change? Please let us know!                           Update Here