Why The Union Matters

When I first started teaching I thought the union was a group that protected bad teachers. From the stories I had heard and the experiences I had had, the teachers that "utilized" the union were looking for shelter when they really just needed to do their jobs. 

But I was wrong. 

The union is the reason that teachers receive health care, get teacher work days, and extra duty pay. I always thought that such rights were innate, when, really, the union fought for them.

After attending my first union retreat I have learned so much about our district contract, about the role of the union, and the role of the union rep. My new role should not be taken lightly - with great power comes great responsibility. 

I believe in the teaching profession, more so than any other. Call me biased, but education is the foundation of society. Those that are entrusted to teach our future voters, parents, consumers, etc., should feel supported, but should also be accountable. 

Today I attended my first union meeting with our principal. Our principal is more than supportive, a strong and transparent leader that our teachers truly appreciate. This makes my job easier, but I welcome feedback from my staff. I want my teachers to be happy and productive/effective, and I honestly feel that, as a union rep, I can help to make this happen.