Montana Teachers Unions

Montana’s public K-12 teachers are represented primarily by the Montana Federation of Public Employees (MFPE). It represents tens of thousands of members across hundreds of local associations, including most public-school teachers, support professionals, and some higher-education and public-sector employees statewide.

Montana Federation of Public Employees (MFPE)

Leadership

• President: Amanda Curtis
• 1st Vice President: Eric Matthews
• 2nd Vice President: Michelle Wheat
• Treasurer: Omega Wilder

Organization
MFPE is the state affiliate of the NEA, AFT, and the Montana AFL-CIO. Although the current organization was formed in 2018, its roots trace back to 1882 through predecessor unions. MFPE represents approximately 19,000 to 23,000 members. The organization is built on a grassroots democratic model, with local associations forming the base and electing delegates to participate in state-level governance.

Member Dues
Union members pay dues that are shared among their local association, the state federation, and the national affiliates. Full-time members typically pay around $305 to $390 annually in state-level dues, with additional amounts allocated to national organizations and local affiliates. Dues support collective bargaining, legal representation, administration, and public policy advocacy on behalf of educators and public employees.

Meetings
MFPE holds an Annual Conference where delegates from local affiliates vote on union policy, leadership, and dues structure. Each local sends delegates based on membership size. Between annual meetings, the union is governed by a statewide Board of Directors that includes representatives from approximately nine geographic districts.

Requirements
Membership is open to public-school teachers, education support professionals, and other public employees in MFPE-represented bargaining units. Joining is voluntary, and non-members remain covered under negotiated contracts but do not have voting rights or access to certain member benefits.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• MFPE negotiates collective bargaining agreements that secure salaries, benefits, and working conditions for public educators across Montana.
• Members receive job protection and legal representation in employment disputes.
• Through MFPE and its national affiliates, members have a unified voice in state and national education and labor policy discussions.
• The union offers professional development, classroom resources, and various financial and insurance benefits through NEA and AFT partnerships.

Cons

• Membership requires paying annual dues which may be a financial burden for some educators.
• Some members may object to political or lobbying activities funded through dues that do not reflect their individual beliefs.
• Union-negotiated contracts may standardize salaries and benefits in ways that reduce flexibility or recognition of individual performance.
• All members are bound by collective decisions and contract terms, which may not align with the preferences of every teacher or employee.

Exercise Your Rights

Union membership is a choice. If you decide union membership is not right for you, opting out is easy.