Dear ETA Colleagues,
On behalf of NEA, CTA and ETA, I want to thank you for all you do for our students and our communities. If there’s anything good that has come from this pandemic, it’s the wonderful work we do together as a union, advocating for the teaching, and learning conditions our students need and deserve.
As you know, by having a strong, engaged union, we have made great strides for both our students and our families. Effective organizing in 2022 led to a 15% salary increase over 3 years and language that will strengthen our Special Education Program for many of our students. Through the years, our collective action has also protected primary class sizes, prep for 4-6 grade teachers, and our benefits. Working together has made it possible for us to be strong advocates for our students, families, and each other.
Threatened by our accomplishments and our collective strength, an anti-union group called the Freedom Foundation has been contacting our members and encouraging them to drop their membership. This Washington-based anti-worker group opposes paid sick leave and collective bargaining, among other values that we know attract the highest quality educators to our profession. Be on the lookout for their propaganda and learn more at cta.org/our-advocacy/union-strong.
Again, thank you for all you are doing, all the extra things – the challenging, the selfless, and the endearing. I know we will continue to get through this together and be stronger for it. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to click on the Contact Us button or email me at evergreenteacherspresident@gmail.com.
In solidarity,
Suzanne Lima
Evergreen Teachers Association President
Evergreen Teachers Association 