New Jersey Teachers Unions

New Jersey has a strong presence of teachers unions, representing tens of thousands of educators across the state. The most prominent organizations are the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) and the American Federation of Teachers New Jersey (AFTNJ), alongside other local and national affiliates. Each union operates under its own structure, with varying dues, leadership and policies.

Understanding how these unions operate can provide valuable insight into what your union dues pay for and your rights and opportunities as a union member.

New Jersey Education Association (NJEA)

Leadership
President: Sean M. Spiller
Vice President: Steve Beatty
Secretary-Treasurer: Petal Robertson

Organization
The NJEA is governed by its Delegate Assembly, which sets policies and elects officers. The executive officers include the President, Vice President, and Secretary-Treasurer. The Delegate Assembly is made up of representatives from each local association, which are organized by county.

Member Dues
Full-time teachers pay approximately $950 annually in dues. There are reduced dues for retirees and part-time employees.

Meetings
The NJEA holds four major meetings a year, including the NJEA Convention. Local associations and committees also meet regularly.

Requirements
Membership is generally open to public school teachers and education professionals in New Jersey. Annual dues are required to maintain an active membership.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: The NJEA is influential in advocating for educators’ rights and securing resources and benefits for its members.
  • Cons: High dues and significant political involvement does not reflect all members’ interests or priorities.

American Federation of Teachers New Jersey (AFTNJ)

Leadership

  • President: Donna M. Chiera
  • Executive Vice President: Joan L. Jacobson
  • Secretary-Treasurer: Rebecca Feldman

Organization
AFTNJ operates through its executive board and various councils, representing different sectors such as K-12 and higher education. Local chapters across the state report to the state federation, and members are represented in both state and national meetings.

Member Dues
Union dues range from $100 to $1,200 per year, depending on employment status and local chapter requirements.

Meetings
AFTNJ holds an annual convention to set union policy and discuss key issues, with additional regular meetings at local chapters to address specific member concerns and organize activities. Specialized committees and councils also meet to focus on areas like advocacy and professional development.

Requirements
Membership is open to teachers and educational professionals in New Jersey. AFTNJ members are expected to participate in union activities and maintain good standing by paying dues.

Recent Activity
American Federation of Teachers New Jersey Supporting All Dems in Congress

Pros and Cons

  • Pros: AFTNJ actively advocates for equity in education and represents educators in both state and national policy discussions.
  • Cons: The union may be perceived as focusing too heavily on higher education issues and its dues can vary significantly by local chapter.

Newark Teachers Union (NTU)

Leadership

  • President: John Abeigon
  • Vice President: Maria De La Cruz
  • Treasurer: Yvette Jordan

Organization
The NTU is a local union affiliated with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). It focuses on representing educators within the Newark Public Schools. Governance includes an executive board, delegates from schools, and various committees dedicated to specific issues like contract negotiation and community outreach.

Member Dues
Full-time teachers typically pay dues around $1,000 annually, with provisions for reduced rates for part-time employees.

Meetings
NTU holds regular meetings for its members, with additional sessions for executive board members and specific committees. The union also participates in AFTNJ and AFT national meetings.

Requirements
Open to teachers and educational staff in Newark. Members are required to maintain good standing by paying dues and participating in union activities.

Recent Activity
Merit pay, key part of historic Newark contract, going away

    Pros and Cons

  • Pros: The Newark Teachers Union provides strong local representation, focuses on Newark-specific issues and is actively involved in contract negotiations.
  • Cons: High membership dues and a focus on local issues may restrict the union’s broader impact beyond the Newark area.

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