During the Independence Day holiday last week, the National Education Association was holding their annual conference in Atlanta. After another solid year of negative press and declining membership, the convention took on a host of controversial issues in 2013. While news is still emerging from the meeting, it should be noted that the Assembly voted to raise dues by a shocking $3 per member. This fee will be assessed on top of already astronomical dues that can run as high as $1200 per year in some states.

The NEA claims the increase in dues will “improve student success and strengthen education professions.” While the new revenues will total more than $6 million for the union coffers, it is unclear how the extra money will exactly accomplish this goal.

Documents cite that some of the funds will go to the “Great Public Schools Grants,” which will support Common Core State Standards (CCSS) implementation, school safety/anti-bullying programs, and technology initiatives.
 

While the NEA is quick to cite the need for arbitrary programs focused on “reforms,” increasing dues has been a trend in many states that have seen massive decreases in members.

All told, in some states union teachers could potentially pay an additional $25 per year when considering state increases. That's considerable when you account for the fact that this money won't realistically be used for any meaningful member benefit or professional development. Clearly, these union leaders are in a fight for their very lives. Unfortunately it seems that the hard-working teacher is left with bill for union politicking and staff overhead.

Contrarily, AAE has not raised dues in over five years and continues to operate on a lean budget that is laser focused on providing benefits our members need. You can rest assured that AAE will never impose assessments or mandatory one-time fees on our membership. Unlike the NEA, as a purely voluntary organization, we must focus solely on our membership's needs.

What do you think about the raise in dues?
Comment below.

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