The unionization of teachers has had consequences beyond traditional trade union objectives and now encompasses educational and sociopolitical goals. The American Federation of Teachers and the United Federation of Teachers of New York have used their organized power to influence school administration policies, to better the educational environment through improved teaching conditions, and to develop programs which attempt to arrest the deteriorating educational situation in urban schools. Organized teachers have also been involved as a pressure group in antipoverty efforts and the civil rights movement. (NH)