Georgia Teachers Unions

Teachers in Georgia have access to two primary unions that advocate for their interests and provide various benefits. The Georgia Association of Educators (GAE) and the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) are the most prominent organizations representing educators across the state. While both organizations offer support and resources, they differ in membership structure, dues, and focus areas.

Understanding the differences between these associations can help educators make informed decisions about their professional representation and the benefits that come with membership.

The Georgia Association of Educators (GAE)

Leadership

  • President: Lisa Morgan
  • Executive Director: Dr. Craig Carter

Organization
The Georgia Association of Educators (GAE) is governed by a Board of Directors, which sets policies and oversees the organization’s operations. GAE’s governance structure includes a Representative Assembly, composed of delegates from local associations across the state. These local associations are organized by school districts and work to address the specific needs of educators in their communities while contributing to statewide initiatives and advocacy efforts.

Member Dues
The GEA calculates membership dues based on a formula that considers factors such as salary and membership category. A teacher with a starting salary of $35k will pay approximately $325 in annual dues. Dues support various services, including legal assistance, professional development, and advocacy efforts at the local, state, and national level.

Meetings
The Georgia Association of Educators (GAE) holds meetings throughout the year, including Board of Directors meetings, district meetings, and professional development sessions. The Board of Directors typically meets several times per year to discuss organizational matters, while district meetings and training events occur periodically to support members at the local level.

Requirements
To join the Georgia Association of Educators (GAE), individuals must be employed in the education field or studying to become educators. Membership requires payment of annual dues, which vary based on employment status and membership category. To remain in good standing, members must stay current with their dues and follow GAE’s policies and code of conduct.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: Membership provides legal protection, liability insurance, and advocacy at the state and national levels, ensuring educators have a voice in policy decisions. Members also gain access to professional development opportunities and discounts on various services.
  • Cons: Dues can be costly, and some educators may feel that the organization’s advocacy efforts do not always align with their personal views. Additionally, GAE does not engage in collective bargaining, which limits its ability to negotiate contracts directly for members

Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE)

Leadership

  • President: Khrista Henry
  • Executive Director: Craig Harper
  • Director of Legislative Services: Margaret Ciccarelli
  • Legislative Communications Specialist: Rob Aycock

Organization
The Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) is governed by a Board of Directors, which establishes policies and provides strategic direction for the union. PAGE’s governance structure includes regional representatives who help address the needs of educators across the state. These representatives work closely with local school districts to provide support, professional learning opportunities, and advocacy resources. PAGE focuses on enhancing educator effectiveness and student achievement while offering legal protection and professional liability coverage for its members.

Member Dues
PAGE determines membership dues based on the member’s role within the education system. An entry-level teacher typically pays around $200 annually. These fees support various services, including legal protection, professional development, and advocacy efforts.

Meetings
The Professional Association of Georgia Educators hosts various meetings throughout the year, including regional events, professional development workshops, and leadership training sessions. These meetings provide members with opportunities to network, stay informed on education policies, and enhance their professional skills. PAGE also organizes advocacy events to engage educators in discussions about legislative issues affecting Georgia’s schools.

Requirements
To join PAGE, individuals must be employed in the education field in Georgia or be students pursuing a career in education. Membership is available to teachers, administrators, support personnel, college students, and even high school students in education pathway programs. Members must stay current with their annual or monthly dues and comply with PAGE’s policies and code of conduct.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: PAGE offers extensive legal protection, professional liability insurance, and a strong focus on professional development and student achievement. The union provides non-partisan advocacy and support without engaging in collective bargaining, which may appeal to educators looking for a politically neutral organization.
  • Cons: The union does not offer collective bargaining rights, which limits its ability to negotiate salaries and benefits directly. Some educators may prefer an organization with a stronger political advocacy presence to address broader policy changes.

Call to Action

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