North Carolina Teachers Unions
Two organizations, the North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE) and the American Federation of Teachers North Carolina (AFT North Carolina), are membership organizations for public school educators in the state. These unions advocate for higher salaries, changes in working conditions and education policies that align with their priorities. They also take stances on other controversial issues related to taxes, race and social issues.
The NCAE, affiliated with the National Education Association (NEA), focuses on professional development, legal representation, and lobbying efforts, while AFT North Carolina places a strong emphasis on labor rights and political activism.
While these unions influence education policy and provide certain resources, educators should carefully consider their objectives and impact before deciding on membership.
North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE)
Leadership
- President: Tamika Walker Kelly
- Vice President: Bryan Proffitt
Organization
The North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE) is governed by a Board of Directors, which establishes policies and oversees the day-to-day operation of the organization. NCAE’s governance structure includes a Representative Assembly, consisting of delegates from local associations across the state. These local associations are organized by school districts and work to address the unique needs of educators in their communities while supporting statewide advocacy and professional development initiatives. NCAE focuses on advancing public education through legislative action, legal support, and member resources.
Member Dues
NCAE calculates membership dues based on the member’s role within the education system. For the 2022–2023 school year, dues for active professional members in Wake County were approximately $600 annually. It’s important to note that a portion of the dues is allocated to the National Education Association (NEA), the parent organization of NCAE.
Meetings
NCAE holds its annual Representative Assembly each spring, bringing together delegates from across the state to set policies, approve budgets, and determine the organization’s direction. The Board of Directors meets periodically throughout the year to oversee operations and address current issues affecting educators. Additionally, NCAE organizes regional meetings and professional development events to engage members in discussions on educational policies and practices.
Requirements
To join NCAE, individuals must be educators, support staff, or students pursuing a career in education in North Carolina. Maintaining membership requires staying current with dues and following NCAE’s policies and ethical standards. Members can also benefit from professional development opportunities and advocacy initiatives provided by the union.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: NCAE provides educators with legal protection, professional development opportunities, and a voice in advocating for education policies. Membership also offers networking opportunities with fellow educators, fostering a sense of community and support.
- Cons: Membership dues can be a financial burden, especially for educators early in their career or those in lower-paying positions. Some educators may feel that NCAE’s advocacy efforts focus too heavily on political issues rather than addressing immediate classroom concerns. The union has no ability to collectively bargain over pay, benefits and working conditions.
American Federation of Teachers North Carolina (AFT North Carolina)
Leadership
- President of the AFT: Randi Weingarten
- Executive Vice President of the AFT: Evelyn DeJesus
- Secretary-Treasurer of the AFT: Fredrick C. Ingram
Organization
The American Federation of Teachers North Carolina (AFT North Carolina) is governed by an Executive Board, which sets policies and oversees the organization’s operations. AFT North Carolina’s governance structure includes local affiliates across the state that represent educators within their respective districts. These local affiliates work to address the specific concerns of their members while contributing to statewide advocacy and professional development efforts.
AFT North Carolina focuses on advancing public education through collective bargaining advocacy, legal support, and resources that empower educators to improve their working conditions and student outcomes.
Member Dues
AFT North Carolina calculates membership dues based on a set monthly amount determined by the local affiliate, which may vary depending on the member’s role and salary. AFT North Carolina reports that members typically pay around $140 in annual dues. Dues support services including legal assistance, professional development, and advocacy efforts at the local, state, and national level.
Meetings
The union holds regular meetings at both the state and local level. Local unions meet to discuss issues specific to their districts, while the larger organization comes together at an annual convention to discuss policies for the union and its members. The executive board meets more frequently to handle ongoing operations and respond to urgent concerns.
Requirements
To join AFT North Carolina, individuals must be employed in an education-related role, such as teachers, support staff, or other school employees, or be students preparing for a career in education. Membership is typically obtained through local affiliates by completing an application and paying the required dues.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: AFT North Carolina offers advocacy for educators’ rights and legal protection that can help navigate workplace challenges. Membership also connects educators with a nationwide network, offering opportunities for collaboration and professional growth outside the classroom.
- Cons: The cost of dues may be a concern for some educators. Some members may also feel that the union’s focus on broader labor issues may not align with their immediate classroom needs. Additionally, since North Carolina is a right-to-work state, the union’s bargaining power is limited compared to other states with stronger labor protections. The union has no ability to collectively bargain over pay, benefits and working conditions.
Call to Action
Union membership is a choice. If you decide union membership is not right for you, opting out is easy.