|
When you are hired by a local school district as a certificated educator, you become part of the local “bargaining unit” which means you are covered by the contract negotiated by the teachers’ union. You do not have to join the union as a member, but you do have to pay a “representation fee” or “agency fee” which covers the cost of bargaining on your behalf. The difference in cost of an “Agency fee payer” and a “Member” is the cost of those things not directly related to collective bargaining. This includes the economic benefits and legal consultation services on non-contract employment matters as well as the liability insurance protection. The collective influence of members is essential in gaining and maintaining desirable terms and conditions of employment as well as influencing the educational environment. While members and fee payers all contribute to the costs of collective bargaining for your individual district contract, only members contribute financially to the efforts to improve education and the teaching profession beyond the local district. Issues that are influenced by the legislature-- retirement benefits, class size, safety issues, teacher rights, to name a few, are issues constantly being supported and defended on your behalf. Your dues dollars make it possible to fight the good fight. When legislation & regulation are on the horizon, CTA and NEA are there to analyze and determine what it means for public education. Supporting those things that are beneficial and opposing those things that are detrimental is a constant endeavor. When new legislation does get enacted, the state and national organizations step up to develop programs, trainings and procedures to ensure the smoothest transition possible. Becoming a member provides you with some great benefits. But it also makes you part of the team that together works for the betterment of, not just your employment conditions, but public education as a whole. You must be a bargaining unit member and complete and return an enrollment form in order to be a full member of your chapter. NOTE: If you are returning from a leave of absence, your membership may have lapsed. If you are unsure whether or not you are a member, call the office at 310-921-2500. |