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posted by: Ruthie
| March 07, 2014, 04:00 PM
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Despite a mass exodus of members in recent years, many teachers remain in the union for the sole purpose of retaining professional liability insurance. Without knowledge of alternatives like AAE, many teachers consider their membership a necessary expense. Illustrating this reality is an emerging story in Michigan where union leaders and teachers are at odds over the true price of protecting one’s career.
During a recent unfair labor practice hearing, the Michigan Education Assocation revealed that the union pays a paltry $4.35 a year per member for liability insurance. Even more shocking is the price of union membership in the state–an astounding $1,000 a year per teacher. Michigan teachers are rightly outraged by the incredible pricing disconnect and are spreading the word.
Jim Perialas, a local teacher took issue with the news. “Liability insurance is one of the 'top shelf' benefits that they tout for being a member." While the MEA doesn't explicitly disclose they are the sole provider of liability insurance for teachers, they often imply they’re the only game in town. "That is not only false, but is inherently misleading to teachers in the union,” he continued. “I am a member of the AAE, and it also provides litigation insurance if I need a lawyer for a wrongful discharge. Michigan teachers need to do the math. What are these dues going to? I don't think the MEA would be in the predicament that they are in right now, if they were truthful and fair to their membership."
At AAE, we are honored to serve thousands of educators like Jim, who are searching for services like professional liability insurance and employment rights assistance at a reasonable price. Our $2,000,000 policy insures educators individually and guarantees our members access to legal counsel. Due to the fact that we offer a superior product, AAE’s costs for professional protection are ten times that of the MEA. We also pay thousands of dollars in monthly attorneys’ fees for members.
As you may have noticed in your March newsletter, AAE dues are rising by $1.50 a month this July due to the mounting costs associated with protecting our members from legal claims and providing assistance with their due process rights. Still under $200 per year, and a fraction of the cost of union dues, we are confident you will agree that this increase will be a worthy investment in enhancing your protection.
In the six years since AAE last raised dues, we have continued to grow in size while staying committed to offering teachers the benefits they need without the politics they don’t. We thank you for your commitment to professionalism and we are proud to serve you!
Did you join AAE for professional protection? How has it served you?
Comment below.
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