Who is the MCFT?
AFT, “Always For Teachers” is the continuing motto of Local 1670. Our focus continues to be commitment to collective bargaining as the most desirable and effective method to secure for teachers full participation in determining the terms and conditions of our employment. We are steadfast in pursuing our goals of:
- defining and protecting the rights of teachers,
- lowering class sizes to provide better education for the children we teach, and
- securing the salaries and benefits that will raise the standard of living for teachers and their families.
The Montgomery County Federation of Teachers was born on June 13, 1966 when 20 courageous MCPS teachers obtained the Local’s Charter in the American Federation of Teachers. Shortly thereafter, the State legislature and Governor granted the teachers of Maryland the right to bargain collectively for their “wages, hours, and working conditions.” It is no coincidence that the labor laws followed the entry of AFT into the Maryland educational scene.
The objectives of MCFT are stated in our Charge. Pursuing these objectives is an arduous task. Hundreds of volunteer teachers worked to raise the professional stature of teachers within the County and to enrich the educational opportunities of all children. These tasks are not completed. Teachers must stand up for the means and methods that they, in their wisdom, know will benefit children and the community the most. MCFT continues to provide assistance and leadership to attain the objectives.