Living in New York City is tough enough without having to fight for money you’ve earned fair and square. Imagine working tirelessly to educate and inspire the next generation, only to be told that your paycheck might not come — not now, not soon, maybe not ever. This isn’t just my story; it’s the story of countless teachers and New York City Department of Education staff who’ve been sidelined by the same bureaucratic nightmare.

I remember someone telling me about their family member, a committed educator, who has been waiting for backpay from the Department of Education since 2012. Others shared similar horror stories, like having to wait years without a resolution, or ultimately giving up, unable to make ends meet without the money they deserved.

Before I went on leave, the lack of clear communication from both the DOE and even the people I had spoken to from the Union when dotting my Is and crossing my Ts regarding short term disability left me in financial limbo. After having to charge my rent and borrow money from my parents, I ultimately had to resign in search of new employment  because when they finally told me about Short Term Disability and even mentioned the phrase, they made it seem very uncertain and impossible to get. Upon returning to the Department of Education because I missed working with children and thought it could help me get back on my feet financially, errors from the central office extended this financial rollercoaster, leaving me without pay for a prolonged period. And then issues throughout the year.

Though I’m fortunate to have supportive colleagues and an amazing community, financial struggles still haunt me. Can you imagine standing at the register, card declined, when all you’re trying to do is purchase groceries? Having a negative bank account while trying to provide for your students? Something needs to change. 

This isn’t just about me; it’s about all of us who work with passion yet face uncertainties and financial burdens due to systemic discrepancies. The DOE must prioritize resolving these backpay issues. We deserve timely and fair compensation for our work — it’s the least we should expect.

Join me in urging the NYC DOE to take action now. Help us ensure that teachers and staff are paid what they rightfully earned, so we can continue to educate and support our students effectively. Please sign this petition to demand immediate reform and accountability.