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Press Release

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 24, 2012
Contact: Alexandra Schroeck
877-385-6264
alexandra@aaeteachers.org

Association of American Educators Testifies Before Utah Senate Education Committee in Favor of SB 82


Alexandria, VA - The Association of American Educators (AAE), the largest, national non-union association for teachers, was pleased to testify in favor of Utah Senate Bill 82, a proposal that would expand current Utah law that allows education associations equal access to schools across the state. AAE Utah Membership Director Charity Smith and AAE members Allyson White and Cole Kelly spoke about the current state of the law and the unfair practices associated with schools, districts, and administrators shutting out competing organizations in favor of the teacher labor union monopoly.

Currently, Utah law stipulates that all competing teacher association must be granted equal time in presenting their services to educators, yet this has not been the case in districts across Utah. The proposed amendments would see to it that not only are associations afforded equal time, there would be consequences for those not following the law.

"As membership director, I focus on letting teachers know there is a professional, non-partisan choice in Utah with the Association of American Educators, said Charity Smith. "Time and time again doors have been shut in districts throughout Utah in favor of the union. We are simply asking for all associations to be granted equal access to teachers and for districts to be held accountable for violating the law."

Ms. Smith outlined various equal access violations, including repeated ignored requests to speak to educators at new teacher orientation meetings, and limited time to speak to teachers in other districts when the union was given unlimited access. Ms. Smith described many unanswered requests and unequal treatment as clear violations of current Utah law.

AAE teachers have also been discriminated against in favor of union preferential treatment. Allyson White, an AAE member, also testified before the committee regarding her own experience. In the Davis School District, Ms. White was blocked from serving on the JSSC school committee when the union guarantees two seats. It has taken legal action to get the district to review the policy.

"This hearing is a step in the right direction for equal access in Utah," said AAE Executive Director Gary Beckner. "By shining a spotlight on these violations, we can ensure that teachers across the state are presented with the critical information needed in choosing an association that aligns with their beliefs and budget."

The bill was approved in the committee and will now move to the Senate floor for a full vote.

The Association of American Educators is the largest national, non-union, professional educators' association, offering a modern approach to teacher representation and educational advocacy. AAE members are forward-thinking professionals who are committed to student-centered reform efforts including school/teacher choice, accountability and technology. AAE has members in all 50 states and welcomes professionals from all education entities. Membership is $15 per month which includes $2 million professional liability insurance, employment rights coverage, professional development resources as well as a host of other benefits. Visit aaeteachers.org for further information.


 


Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE Andrew Arndt— Freemont, IN