Virginia Teachers Unions

Some educators in Virginia are represented by the Virginia Education Association (VEA) and the American Federation of Teachers Virginia (AFT Virginia). Both teachers unions negotiate over compensation, benefits, and working environments. Public sector unionization is relatively new in Virginia and, thus, unionization is not widespread.

Virginia Education Association (VEA)

Leadership

• President: Carol Bauer
• Vice President: Dr. Jessica M. Jones

Organization
The Virginia Education Association (VEA) is a statewide organization representing some teachers and other education professionals in districts which have voted to unionize throughout Virginia. The VEA advocates for educator’s salaries, benefits, and working conditions, while also promoting other policies. Through lobbying efforts, professional development programs, and collaboration with local and national partners—including its affiliation with the National Education Association (NEA)—the VEA seeks to ensure that educators have a voice in shaping education policy.

Member Dues
VEA dues are typically determined through a combination of local, state, and national assessments, and are approved by the organization’s leadership. Dues may vary based on factors such as the member’s position and the local union’s rates. Yearly dues for VEA teachers typically cost about $900. These dues fund the union’s operations, including advocacy, professional development, and member support services.

Meetings
The VEA hosts its Delegate Assembly annually. During this event, members are encouraged to discuss and approve policy positions for the association. The goal of this meeting is to ensure that members’ voices guide the direction and advocacy efforts of the union.

Requirements
To join the VEA, you must be employed in a public education role within Virginia. This includes roles as a teacher, education support professional, or other school-related staff. Membership is usually obtained by signing up through a local VEA affiliate and agreeing to pay union dues. To maintain membership, members must remain actively employed in an eligible position, pay dues as required, and follow the organization’s bylaws, policies, and ethical standards.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: The Virginia Education Association provides strong collective bargaining for salaries, benefits, and working conditions, along with legal support, professional development, and advocacy for education policies.
• Cons: VEA members are required to pay annual dues, which some may find costly. Members in certain districts may feel the union’s impact is limited and active participation may require a significant time commitment. It’s unclear if unionization results in higher salaries, after accounting for dues. The union gets involved in political activities.

American Federation of Teachers Virginia (AFT Virginia)

Leadership

• Associate: Emily VanDerhoff

Organization
AFT Virginia is a state-level affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers, representing educators and school staff across Virginia. By collaborating with local affiliates, policymakers, and community groups, AFT Virginia works to enhance teaching quality and student outcomes, ensuring that educators have a strong, united voice in shaping the future of public education in the state.

Member Dues
Dues for AFT Virginia are structured as a salary-based percentage, so members pay in accordance with their earnings. This approach distributes the financial responsibility fairly among the membership. Member’s dues pay for union activities like negotiating contracts, professional development opportunities, and legal assistance.

Meetings
The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) hosts a yearly convention for its members. State affiliates like AFT Virginia may host smaller events and meetings throughout the year to discuss state-specific concerns. These meetings often occur quarterly or as needed, allowing leaders and members to review policies, address workplace issues, and plan advocacy campaigns.

Requirements
Joining AFT Virginia typically requires employment in a role represented by the union’s bargaining units. These roles include teachers, paraprofessionals, school librarians, guidance counselors, and other school-based staff. To maintain membership, individuals must remain in an eligible position, continue paying dues, and comply with all union policies.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: AFT Virginia advocates for better salaries, benefits, and working conditions, along with legal support for its members. It also provides additional benefits like insurance programs and financial services.
• Cons: Union decision-making is often guided by majority consensus, so individual concerns might not always be addressed promptly. This can often lead to frustration, especially if members feel their needs are neglected by the union’s broader agenda.

Call to Action

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