Oklahoma Teachers Unions

The Oklahoma Education Association (OEA) is the state’s largest teachers’ union and plays a key role in advocating for better funding, salaries, and working conditions in public education. The American Federation of Teachers–Oklahoma (AFT-Oklahoma) also represents educators and support staff, focusing on collective bargaining and policy reform, particularly in urban districts.

Oklahoma Education Association (OEA)

Leadership

• President: Cari Elledge
• Vice President: Zach Grimm

Organization
The Oklahoma Education Association (OEA) is the state’s largest teachers union, representing over 30,000 educators and school staff. It advocates for better pay, school funding, and classroom conditions. The OEA played a major role in the 2018 teacher walkout that led to significant funding increases.

Member Dues
OEA dues are about $525 per year for full-time teachers and $261.50 for support staff, covering local, state, and national membership.

Meetings
The Oklahoma Education Association (OEA) holds various meetings throughout the year to support member engagement and professional development. These include events like the annual Delegate Assembly, regional leadership academies, and board retreats.

Requirements
OEA is a professional organization for educators in Oklahoma that supports teachers through advocacy, resources, and professional development. Membership typically requires paying annual dues and meeting basic eligibility criteria related to employment in education.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Access to professional development and teaching resources.
• Representation and advocacy on education-related issues at the state level.
• Networking opportunities with other educators across Oklahoma.

Cons

• Membership requires paying annual dues.
• Some may disagree with the union’s political positions or actions.
• Participation in meetings or activities may take time away from personal or professional responsibilities.

American Federation of Teachers Oklahoma (AFT Oklahoma)

Leadership

• AFT Oklahoma President: Torie Luster Pennington
• AFT Oklahoma Treasurer: Ruth Nichols

Organization
AFT Oklahoma is a state affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers, representing educators and school staff across Oklahoma. It advocates for public education, supports collective bargaining, and provides professional development resources to its members.

Member Dues
AFT Oklahoma’s annual dues can exceed $600, depending on the local chapter and membership level. These dues typically cover local, state, and national union services, including representation, advocacy, and professional development.

Meetings
AFT Oklahoma holds regular meetings to engage members and address educational issues. For instance, the Oklahoma City chapter organizes monthly meetings featuring relevant speakers and topics for educators.

Requirements
To join AFT Oklahoma, individuals typically need to be employed in a public education role, such as a teacher, paraprofessional, or school-related personnel. Membership can be initiated by completing an online application through the local affiliate’s website or by contacting the local union representative.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Access to collective bargaining that can improve wages, benefits, and working conditions.
• Support with legal representation and workplace issues.
• Opportunities for professional development and networking with other educators.

Cons

• Membership dues are required, which can be a significant financial commitment.
• Some members may disagree with union policies or political stances.
• Union involvement can sometimes require time for meetings and participation, which may add to a busy schedule.

Exercise Your Rights

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