“Because every teacher deserves a choice.”
When I began teaching in 1996, I automatically became a union member. I didn’t really understand what that meant. I was a bit naïve, but a very excited new teacher ready to welcome a classroom full of students.
All I knew about the union was that it “protected me” if I ever got into trouble.
But every month, my already-small paycheck was even smaller because of union dues. Still, I didn’t question it. Union membership just seemed like part of the job.
A decade later, I became a district administrator and found myself sitting in disciplinary meetings with human resources, the union and teachers.
That’s when my view began to shift. I saw the union protecting ineffective teachers and prioritizing job security over student learning or teaching quality.
Then came the 2018 Janus v. AFSCME Supreme Court decision, which affirmed that public employees — including teachers — could no longer be forced to pay union dues or fees as a condition of employment.
At this point, I had returned back to the classroom to teach and I opted out immediately. And I’ve never looked back.
As the cultural and political landscape has changed in recent years, I’ve become even more relieved that I’m no longer financially supporting the radical political agenda of the California Teachers Association (CTA).
I believe the union has gone far beyond its purpose and into divisive activism.
To be clear, unions should negotiate contracts and working conditions — nothing more. They should not be using our dues to support political candidates or causes, especially without our explicit permission.
Even if the union backed candidates I agreed with, I don’t need a union to be my political voice. I am fully capable of supporting causes I believe in — on my own terms.
So what do I do now? Today, I talk to teachers. One conversation at a time. While it is different from our traditional form of outreach of mail and email, face to face discussions are most impactful in empowering teachers to exercise their rights.
My mission is simple: Educate, not pressure.
Recently, I spoke with two California teachers — brought to us by another teacher that had attended the Freedom Foundation’s annual Teacher Freedom Summit — who were both deeply frustrated with their union membership.
They didn’t feel supported, and they were tired of seeing dues deducted from their checks. But they were also apprehensive and full of questions. That’s normal.
I don’t push. That’s not my job. What I do is explain their rights:
- That they can opt out.
- That they are still legally represented as part of the bargaining unit.
- That opting out doesn’t mean they can’t get their own professional liability insurance.
- And, most importantly, that they’re not alone.
I provide them with resources, walk them through the steps, and connect them with others who have chosen the same path.
This is about freedom, not division. It’s about empowerment, not persuasion.
Many educators are simply unaware that they have a choice. Others are unsure if they can leave without consequences. I’m here to say you can. You’re allowed. And you’re not alone.
That’s my mission. And if this post helps even one teacher feel more confident or informed, it’s worth it.
Have more questions about opting out or need other resources to do so?
Contact me at pnguyen@freedomfoundation.com
