Why Do I Need My Association Membership?
A lot of money comes out of your check each month as dues to pay for your membership in the NEA, MEA and your local association. So you may be asking, "Why do I need the MEA?" Read on.
You need your association as a source for professional development, career assistance and educational leadership. It is the MEA that can provide assistance in planning meaningful professional development experiences. MEA provides these monthly tips to help you make your first years successful. And it's the MEA that keeps you up-to-date with news of the best teaching practices.
You need your association to promote a positive image of school employees and education. MEA continually partners with other state education groups to send the message that education employees are keys to shaping the future.
You need your association to lobby for better educational legislation. The legislators in Lansing determine everything that happens in education and MEA is a strong force in making decisions about what's good for teachers.
You need your association if you are charged with some criminal activity connected with your job. As a member of MEA/NEA you are eligible for a $1 million professional liability insurance coverage. This coverage provides you with protection if you're sued as a result of doing your job.
You need your association to help you receive discounts and other financial benefits. MEA membership gives you access to all kinds of insurance, credit cards, travel programs and retirement investments. Once you register online, your membership card opens a world of discounts and services. Click on www.mea.org to learn more. Check with your association rep and president if you haven't gotten your membership card yet.
You need your association to bargain for you. Your association has access to the time, money and extensive legal knowledge needed to bargain a contract that addresses the issues of new teachers. An individual is not as strong as a total association and all of its resources. Your UniServ director is the field representative for this service.