The Illinois Federation of Teachers represents 103,000 men and women who are teachers and paraprofessionals in school districts throughout Illinois, faculty and staff at Illinois' community colleges and universities, public employees under every statewide elected constitutional officer, and retirees.
The Pension Modernization Task Force releases findings
A new report released by the Pension Modernization Task Force shows that Illinois’ current pension system is actually more affordable than retirement benefits provided by comparable companies in the private sector.
National Press Club speech urges move away from industrial model of public education
Randi Weingarten's speech, "A New Path Forward: Four Approaches to Quality Teaching and Better Schools," is an effort to focus public attention on what it takes to develop and support great teachers and great teaching.
Watch a short video that highlights important pension facts
IFT Director of Political Activities Steve Preckwinkle and IFT President Ed Geppert talk about the findings of the Illinois Pension Modernization Task Force. They discuss the findings that show state pension benefits are average and that the cost of the pension systems is less than the private sector.
Statement of IFT President Ed Geppert, Jr. on Gov. Quinn’s FY 2011 Budget
(March 10,2010)
Illinois is on the brink of a budget disaster. Gov. Pat Quinn’s budget message today urged legislators to “invest in the future even in tough economic times” and to work with him to lead this state out of its dire mess.
Illinois selected a first-round finalist in the RttT competition
(March 5,2010)
The Illinois Federation of Teachers was a key participant in this successful effort. IFT efforts on several key pieces of legislation focused on improved teaching and learning were critical to Illinois' success in this first round.
The Executive Council and AFT President Randi Weingarten speak out in support of the Central Falls Teachers Union
(February 24,2010)
The AFL-CIO Executive Council today condemned the firing of the entire education staff at the Central Falls (R.I.) High School and called on the Obama administration and the local school superintendent to work together with the teachers to create an environment that allows students and teachers to succeed.
APA is looking for teachers to complete online survey
(February 22,2010)
The Center for Psychology in Schools and Education (CPSE) at the American Psychological Association (APA) is seeking teachers to participate in a survey concerning classrooom violence directed against teachers.