Teacher's Union

Teacher's unions need to get out of politics. Why does so much money go to backing political candidates and causes? The article in Newsweek is just another story about unions protecting teachers who are hurting children. How long are teachers going to put up with this? Why are we? Because we think the union will get us more money? Because we want the insurance they provide?

I have opted to join Northwest Professional Educators because I don't want any of my dues going to back political candidates or causes. (Regardless of party affiliation.) If I want to give money to a political party, candidate or cause, I will send them a check. For $25 a year for students, I have two million dollars worth of liability insurance while I student teach. For $16.50 a month after I become a teacher, I will have the same insurance and legal coverage. They also have grants for beginning teachers and a newsletter about issues in education. Another thing I like is, NWPE will not take a position on legislation regarding education unless 80% of their members support it. I recently got an email from them about the legislation in Idaho about early graduation asking my opinion. When they could not get an 80% consensus, they did not issue a statement in support of or against the measure. I liked that. Here's a quote from their website: "NWPE stays focused on what is best for students and those who place them as their highest priority."

Here's their website if you are interested: http://www.nwpe.org/

Just another option in case you feel like I do and don't want your union dues financing politician's or political causes you may or may not agree with.

Brenda