Survey Says: Trust Utah's Public Educators

Alpine

It makes our job less stressful to have them support us and know that someone is looking out for us, so we can focus on our job.
~ Heather S.

As an educator, I am busy. I appreciate the UEA and the time they spend with legislators speaking on my behalf. I hope the UEA representatives will speak freely and advocate for me so I can spend my time teaching children, not worrying about politics.
~ Sharla M.

UEA helps me feel safer; like I have a voice from someone who walks the walk and isn't just up on the hill 'thinking' they know what we need in the classrooms. It is $70 month which is hefty, but I view it as insurance, someone to have my back now and if needed in the future.
~ Michelle P.

The UEA is our support and stronghold.
~ Julene O.

I have appreciated the support of UEA over my 36 years of teaching in the public school system. Please allow this support to future educators.
~ Thomas M.

As educators, we often feel disrespected, unappreciated, and unheard. Being a member of the association helps me feel like I have a voice, however small or quiet it may be. It’s literally the only organization that is actually supporting teachers.
~ Brandis S.

No more PRAXIS for educators and administrators.
~ Fabian C.

UEA is great representation for educators. It allows us to feel represented without having to leave the classroom to petition for what we feel is important. We do not have to split our priorities to share what is important and valuable in our area of focus.
~ Tambee M.

We need educators advocating for educators! I’m so tired of politicians making decisions for students and teachers when they have no experience or training and therefore haven’t got a realistic clue of what it is like!
~ Lisa J.

We need a voice that is what makes us strong as a state.
~ Alene W.

Professional Educators have and will always focus first on our students’ growth and development and second on our own well-being. A strong public educator union provides a group of professionals who can focus on the growth and development of educators while also ensuring that those same educators are granted the professional respect deserved for the tireless work of building capacity in our future generations. Accepting education as a teammate to create the best future for Utah is paramount to the continuing success of our state. Working together FOR our students and our communities we can foster relationships that promote unity of purpose and develop creative, funded programs that will provide viable solutions to the challenges we face.
~ Shawn P.

The union is necessary to support teachers in our schools.
~Lori C.

UEA are professional teachers that understand classroom and educational issues. Lawmakers are not educators and are not in touch with what is going on in our schools beyond hearsay. They do not understand educational issues and pass laws that more often than not lead to teacher burnout and hamper success in the classroom. UEA strives to combat much of this falsely informed legislation to preserve the quality of education and education as a profession.
~ DANNY C.

State and local associations work hard for the benefit of employees and management. If the association is taken away we will have a one-sided system that will not benefit anyone.
~ Moani R.

It wouldn’t be viable to be a teacher and have a family without the ability of a strong educators’ union to represent me and my colleagues and seek to ensure that we are treated as professionals and paid as such.
~ Blake L.

Public educator unions are essential for advocating for the interests of educators, and by extension, the interests of the students we serve. In recent years, we have seen a rising turnover rate among teachers, compounded by burnout, and the added strain on educators has only worsened. Teachers need strong unions to negotiate not just for pay, but for the resources, support, and professional conditions necessary to foster a thriving classroom environment. A well-supported teaching workforce is key to providing the best education possible to students.
~ Jeanne F.

Teachers need a voice that is significant enough to balance the voice of the legislators who do not always understand the needs of teachers.
~ Mark G.

Efforts to erode protections for educators transparently show their efforts to dismantle free education.
~ Michael B.

I feel like someone has my back.
~ Arlene H.

For approximately ten years, I consistently requested assignment to a seventh-hour class. During that time, my seventh-hour assignment was repeatedly given to less experienced teachers. I was informed that the school did not have sufficient funds to compensate veteran teachers at a seventh-hour rate and that budget constraints were the reason my request could not be approved.  However, I later became aware that other veteran teachers at the same school were, in fact, being compensated for seven-hour teaching loads during this same period. This raised concerns that the decisions regarding my assignments were not applied equitably. The reassignment of my classes to less experienced, lower-salaried teachers resulted in a prolonged reduction of my teaching load and salary. Over the course of approximately ten years, this led to a cumulative loss of income exceeding $100,000, despite my having been hired as a fully prepared and qualified professional. After I requested that an AEA representative attend meetings with me and my administrators, these issues were addressed in a more professional and balanced manner. With union representation present, my request for a seventh-hour assignment was approved the following year. The presence of an impartial AEA representative ensured that discussions were conducted respectfully and that my concerns were taken seriously, after years in which I felt dismissed during administrative meetings. I am grateful for the support of the AEA in helping to facilitate fair communication and more equitable treatment in discussions with administration.
~ Tamara A.

Thank you for your work!
~ Melany B.

Unions have protected workers throughout history and continue to do so. The Association has made the profession better and will continue to do so.
~ Patrick G.

I need to support and the voice of the union.
~ PC W.

We need unions to help hold those in positions of power accountable. We need teachers’ unions so our voices can be heard
~ Tucker S.

It seems like the only way we can make our voices heard, is through the union. I've written many legislators in my time, and it always feels as though it falls on deaf ears. One time I sent an email (that was extremely polite and correct) through my private email to Jordan Teuscher. I had said I was a teacher in Jordan District and he sent me a physical letter addressed to my school (which I hadn't disclosed). I'm grateful for the union, because otherwise, I would have felt my job was in jeopardy. His response basically said I didn't know what I was talking about. The union reinforced my voice and I appreciate that.
~ Erin W.

The Union is our voice to legislators. We are working in class with students during sessions and the Union listens and knows our thoughts on issues. They represent us when we can't be there ourselves.
~Katherine K.

It is essential that we have our union advocate for us. Our plate is full already.  I don't have the time nor the energy to research and advocate for myself when it comes to legislative action or policies.
~ KaLani C.

Having an educator union is so important in terms of giving teachers a voice. We have such a demanding, all-consuming job. It doesn't leave us much time to advocate for what we need. And it's so difficult for politicians and others that aren't working in the schools to really understand what is needed. Without a teacher’s union, state and national leaders would be left with too little input from the people who know most about education and, as a result, education would suffer.
~ Elisabeth S.

It is extremely important that educators have a voice in the legislative sessions where decisions are made that affect educators and education by people who are NOT in education. There are special interest groups who push their agenda for school choice, so there needs to be equal or more representation for public schools. Our public schools are extremely important- more and more as families and parents struggle and children need safe spaces. States who have gotten rid of their unions have poorer conditions and pay for teachers. It is already difficult to staff our schools as mental and behavior health challenges escalate and it is not “worth it” for people to go into or stay in education. If conditions continue to decline, children will suffer. The teachers who are not part of the union are benefiting every day from it without paying into it. Those of us in the union are carrying all of them because we know having a seat at the negotiating table and people on our side is invaluable. I wish more teachers would realize that. But at the very least we should have the option to be part of a union. I am at the end of my career, and I fear for the future of public education if there is no one to advocate for it at a legislative and district level. Over my career in education in Utah I have seen the union help negotiate more time for teachers to prep good lessons, have health benefits, be able to take time off without their pay being docked, get pay raises, and more. I have felt safer with a union, an organization who “has my back” as an educator.
~ Janelle G.

If I were no longer able to be represented by a union, I would leave the teaching profession. A union is the only way teachers have any influence in pay, benefits, working conditions, burnout, and so so much more. The stress of this job is not worth it without those protections.
~ B Elizabeth S.

My union representative was the only person who informed and assisted me when a state employee made a mistake on my background check causing me to be put on unfounded administrative leave. My union representatives work tirelessly to listen, understand, and choose routes for progress in the teaching profession in Utah that would be found nowhere else. For example, full time certified teacher librarians - not paraprofessionals (as much as we love and depend on them) that have been advocated for in only a few Utah districts at the elementary level through union representation make enormous gains in early childhood literacy and love of reading and learning.
~Thomas B.

They are the only ones who have our mental health in mind, along with our pay and benefits.
~ Jeanie E.

UEA has the largest representation of educators in Utah. Their voice is crucial to help address the myriad of issues in public education.
~ Derek S.

[The UEA is] Definitely something we need in order to afford today’s costs. Would the option of not having to pick up a second or third job just to make ends meet.
~ Shawn O.

We need to have the bargaining power of our union. Each teacher has so much on their plate working with students, curriculum, behaviors, etc. that negotiating our contracts individually will not happen. Districts won't listen to individuals and will determine a contract that benefits them and not consider the needs of the teachers.
~ Rochelle P.

The teachers in AZ have no real union to fight for them. That is why AZ cannot keep teachers and why I moved to Utah. I do not particularly like unions, but in education I have come to realize that they are essential.
~ Randall B.

Having a union is crucial to protect educators and allow them to have a say in their profession.
~ EMILY W.

We’re SO busy helping kids that we desperately need and want advocates for us, watching bills and elections. Sadly, people have turned against the best for kids (possibly thinking just the opposite). The general public have been fed the scariest ideas and scenarios, so they have turned off their support/respect for teachers. I’ve taught for 25 years and witnessed it. We have to keep advocates out there so we can focus on the classroom and not every crazy bill that tries to get hushed or shoved through that is going to—once again—negatively impact me and my classroom and make me feel like giving up and quitting. Stop listening to the craziest scenarios. Come see what we do!!!! Save us by saving our union. We need their protection, guidance, and help! Sometimes I feel like Princess Leia from Star Wars, saying, “Save us UEA, you’re our only hope. My emails or pleas fall on deaf ears.” In other words, I need the union now more than ever. Protect educators so we can protect our tomorrow! I want to help kids, but our laws don’t make that easy a lot of the time. I dread when the legislative session is open and pray that they stop weighing us down, assuming the worst, or making it harder to survive. The union feels like that voice that does actually get heard, and we need them more than ever!
~ Rebekkah R.

UEA effectively supports teacher initiatives that strengthen teaching skills and student success.
~Charlotte T.

Our right to organize is under constant threat from the Utah Legislature. We rallied and got the referendum on the ballot, but I'll bet they have something underhanded planned for this upcoming session. It's exhausting. My wife and I are probably leaving the state soon and the Utah Legislature's attacks on public education are a huge part of why. I just wish they knew that they're driving teachers and therapists out with their priorities. They probably do though and just don't care.
~ Cole W. 

Box Elder

Without the union there would not be anyone advocating for what teachers really need!
~ Virginia S.

Being a part of and having a union (UEA) is important to have a strong voice in both district and state issues.   UEA offers a listening ear and third party to both state and district, when needed.
~ Eric D.

Cache

Collective bargaining is absolutely essential for fair treatment of educators. Otherwise, the legislature would bully teachers to the point where education would cease to be a viable profession to support a family. To many teachers still have second jobs to make supporting their families possible. We have fallen behind inflation drastically inflation again.
~ Willard S.

It is essential that we have the right to representation and worker rights.
~ Christina B.

I trust UEA to represent me.
~ Tina L.

Utah Education Association has provided many services. When doing a FUBA behavior plan that has to be done with fidelity. I had a principal who did not understand that. He thought I was being disrespectful and undermining his authority. UEA came in to help train and support both of us. They also helped me as that principal wanted to fire me for doing my job.
~ Marcia C.

I believe it is essential that employees have a strong professional organization to represent them with administration and legislative advocacy.
~ Michael W.

The association has worked together with district and government leaders at all levels during my 20 years as a teacher. This collaboration has been responsible, professional, and has supported teachers and students in our state.
~Rodney B. 

Canyons

Having joined this year, I now realize just how unheard and unsupported I previously felt by my local school leaders, school district, and those governing educational policy in Utah. It is UEA, and specifically CEA, that has helped me to feel heard, appreciated, and valued as a professional. A strong union leads to greater educators’ voice and, consequently, job satisfaction. Teachers are hard workers who want to do their jobs well- we want to show up for our students. We need someone to show up for us, too. Legislators should do everything within their power to listen to and work with the union if they want to strengthen Utah’s public education system, starting with its teachers.
~ Natalie W.

The Utah State Legislature has it out for teachers. We see this in their anti-bargaining bills, their anti-DEI "Critical Race Theory" bills, their "sensitive materials" bills, and their book bans in school libraries. We all know that the legislature will throw us under the bus at a moment's notice. Parents lodge unending ridiculous political complaints about the way educators approach race, religion, sexual orientation, or anything even remotely political. Only UEA seems to care about the genuinely good people I see putting their whole souls and lives into helping kids. Why are these wonderful people being made to look like the enemy? UEA is the champion and defender of intellectual freedom in the State of Utah. I know they will have my back if someone comes for my license unfairly, or when the legislature once again tries to tie us up in political games so they can get votes. Educators are here for the kids. UEA is here for educators. We wish the legislature would play on the same team. We are caring, highly educated people with a mission to help the future generation and we take our job seriously. We want to be treated that way and want to be compensated appropriately, both monetarily and with public support for our image.
~ Amanda S.

Legislators have made comments that not all teachers are represented by the union, and therefore, the unions should be disallowed. This is illogical. Do legislators really think that school districts will negotiate with teachers on an individual basis? My school district employs over 1,500 teachers. It would be impossible for them to negotiate on an individual basis. Legislators have also made comments that since not all teachers are members of the union, not all teachers benefit from having unions. This is also incorrect. All benefits that are negotiated by the union are awarded to ALL teachers, whether they are a member of the union or not.
~ Madaline C.

I appreciate knowing that the union is looking out for me and not just the politics.
~ Amanda K.

Having a strong public educator Union in Utah is very important. The Union is our voice when often times our voices aren’t heard or considered important.
~ Tiffany R.

It’s absolutely necessary to have a strong public educator union in Utah to advocate for the needs and issues of those who spend day after day in the classrooms with students. The union has helped me have a better work/home life balance by increasing planning time, and requiring less PD on days that team planning and prep should be prioritized.
~ Sherri C.

Teachers have the education, experience, and passion to do this job. Trust us to make sure students are learning and preparing for the future.
~Rebecca A.

UEA gives me a place where I feel my voice is actually heard.
~ Sarah H.

It is unrealistic to believe that school districts could bargain with individual teachers. Teacher voice is best heard when associations are active and strong.
~ Katherine S.

UEA is not inherently antagonistic toward the Legislature. We wish to be a partner with the Legislature in increasing student outcomes. UEA is made up of teachers and teachers should have the strongest say in education policy in the state.
~ Ben K.

The union makes it possible for me to have a voice with our government. Frankly, I find legislative sessions give me anxiety. I'm so worried about what new thing will be put into law that will make my job even harder. It's super discouraging. I appreciate those who represent me so I can focus on my position in the classroom.
~ Sandi J.

Having a group of people in the union to support me and have my back is imperative. Teachers are being overlooked and being put under extreme requirements that regular employees would not have to experience.
~ Jamie A.

Much like private groups have lobbyists who have the ear of the legislature, public employees should be able to have representatives who can lobby and advocate for their needs and the needs of their sector.
~ Katie N.

I appreciate that the Union speaks on behalf of the teachers, giving us a voice.
~ Kimberly M.

The UEA is important for me as they make sure to keep me involved in political action that affects my daily life and career. As I already have too many responsibilities as an educator, I appreciate that there are people actively helping me be involved in political action, so my time doesn’t have to be consumed by political action.
~ Holly D.

Carbon

We have enough things to worry/stress over while trying to bend over backwards to help students, obey legislation that was made by someone who has never been in a classroom, all while trying to help raise parents to better support their children's learning! I have always worked with the most compassionate teachers whose #1 goal has been to help, not only their students, but also one another with a unified goal to help each new generation gain the skills to make educated decisions about a plethora of topics. It would be nice to feel like it isn't the teachers against the world in an uphill climb to help everyone understand that the future of Everything is reliant on making sure our youth understand more than past generations, in order to help the world.
~ Kimberly C.

Davis

Thank you UEA for asking, listening, but also acting on issues we teachers and our schools are facing.
~ Anna L.

This union fights for strong public schools, full stop. This improves the lives of teachers, students, parents and our communities by having strong public schools.
~ Aaron M.

Unions make sure our voices are heard.
~ Julie J.

The UEA is very important to educators. We trust them to represent us.
~ Rhonda D.

I appreciate local unions. I hate having to be a part of the national union if I am a part of the local union.
~Natalie W.

When a rather significant issue came up between my supervisor and myself, the DEA stepped in as a mediator and were invaluable in helping us come to a conclusion that was satisfactory for all.
~ Megan L.

It is very reassuring to know that there is an organization that knows my situation as a teacher, actively listens to me, and advocates for me and my students, since I am often too exhausted to do so myself.
~ Michael H.

Someone has to pay close attention to what lawmakers are doing and celebrate the good things they do and shine a light on what is nonsensical or dangerous. Efforts to silence the voices of UEA or its local affiliates are wrong and not in the best interests of schoolchildren, teachers, and even the Legislature itself. What happened to the partnership between UEA and our legislative leaders? Why is there this nonsensical ideological divide? Don’t we have the same goal? That is, to provide a quality public school for every child.
~ Richard H.

The union is the only way I feel I’m represented. The fact that the legislation has repeatedly sought to weaken and silence the unions is the most insulting thing they could possibly do to their teachers.
~ Michael C.

The union is the only thing that keeps teachers efficient and functioning.
~ Andrew H.

The UEA has made it possible for me to barely maintain a wage to support my family and continue being a teacher in Utah. Without the UEA’s voice, I could not financially support my family on a teacher’s salary. Living in Utah and supporting a family on a professional teacher’s salary continues to be a challenge. Utah teachers desperately need a substantial salary increase. Thank you!
~ Paul D.

A strong public educator union is a critical support system for teachers and schools. Because of UEA, I have professional advocacy when issues arise in my building and access to free, high-quality training that strengthens my leadership and effectiveness as an educator. Supports like these improve teacher retention, build stronger school communities, and lead to better outcomes for students across our state.
~ Kayla K.

UEA makes sure that teachers’ voices are heard in every district. Teachers are some of the strongest advocates for students and families. When teachers are supported, we are empowered to advocate for students. We understand deeply as classroom teachers the diverse needs and situations of all of our students and are fierce supporters of student growth in partnership with parents. Teacher voices must be heard in rooms where decisions are made. Removing collective bargaining from teachers reduced our input to a yes or no survey instead of seeking true insight into complicated decision making by those of us with the greatest insights into the needs of our students families and schools. Please continue to support and work with teachers and UEA which represents the interests of all teachers regardless of membership.
~ Elyse B.

The UEA has supported best teaching practices through classes and sharing of resources. I've been using many of these things before they became trends.
~ Michelle P.

Educators need to have a strong public union to fight for our rights as professional educators. Educators are in schools all day long instructing and supporting students with ALL needs.  Unions are able to fight for what educators need while the educator is still supporting students.  If all educators had to come fight for the needs of students and educators, then we would not have educators in the school supporting students.  As an educator who is a part of a union, I put my trust in my union representatives to fight for me and address the areas of concern or need that have been identified, so I can stay in the school and continue educating students.
~ Allison W.

The UEA puts my needs first and fights to keep public money in public education.
~ Melissa M.

United we are strong.
~ Chris T.

UEA is my home. Consistently, legislators attack the very thing (UEA) that gives us protection and a voice. There are too many bills being introduced regarding education, most of which are not good legislation for education. UEA is an important voice that must be at the table for all conversations about education.
~ BreAnn B.

The Union has made it possible for me to stand strong with other educators in advocating for teachers and students. It makes administrators accountable to support teachers rather than put up roadblocks that make our job harder.
~ Wendi M.

I am proud to have assisted with gathering signatures to repeal HB267, and I am grateful for our UEA representation with legislative matters.
~ Lain H.

We should be partners with the Legislature in ensuring the best schools possible in Utah.
~ Richard H.

The DEA/UEA has helped me personally resolve issues such as conflict with an insurance company not following protocol. They have provided me with professional liability insurance as I completed an educational practicum experience to improve my skills as an educator. More importantly, it has helped all educators in our district to negotiate for competitive pay and benefits, as well as helping teachers get the help and resources, they need in order to succeed. They have been invaluable to me as a professional.
~ Liz W.

I’ve always been a union member and have been the union rep in my building for 4 years. I’ve been able to share training to union and nonunion members at my school on working with administration, emailing legislators and how the school calendar is created each year. I have a voice and so do the teachers at my school.
~ Kynda F.

TRUST your educators. It's hard to hear that our degrees are no longer considered "Professional". That is a hit to this profession. Please spend time in classrooms and see what our days look like.
~Devre C.

The UEA and local unions support me as a teacher! They ensure my voice is being heard by people who can make a change. With HB267, they said the goal was to give more educators a voice but, in all reality, they just wanted to take our one voice away. The unions fight for better pay, better student resources and overall, better school conditions for teachers and our students.
~ Aubree C.

They have advocated for all teachers, even those who aren't members. Because of their work we all get the benefits of prep time, early out days, professional development days, support when dealing with administration that is not treating you in an appropriate way, and many other benefits. Two years ago, when the district took away all of our professional day to do LTRS training and then we didn't have time to do grades, the Union advocated to at least give us an extra half day so we could do grades. Thank you!!!
~ Shawna H.

Having a voice in the negotiations is very important!
~ Cindy B.

The union is essential to my wellbeing!
~ Kimberly L.

Teachers need to be able to advocate for the profession and for their students. At the heart of what UEA stands for is student achievement through educator support and advocacy. It is essential that teachers have a viable, strong option to keep that connection a possibility.
~ Andrea W.

Without a union teachers have no advocates. In the current climate we are seen as babysitters more than educators and we need to have a voice to remind governments of our true value.
~ Juliana A.

Duchesne

In the face of increasing hostility toward teachers and our profession, we need greater support and advocacy to help us weather the current attacks and protect the integrity of our work.
~ William H.

Emery

My UEA representative has helped me with a few situations involving other educators and administrators. I am very grateful for their help and support.
~Darline D. 

Garfield

Unions only rise out of poor management. Unions work WITH districts through collective bargaining to create guidelines such as teacher contracts, standards, and expectations. Without this work, districts wouldn’t have clear guidelines on how to maintain consistency among schools, administrators and educators.
~ Maggie M.

It is helping me become more aware of issues and what I can do to have my voice and opinion be heard.
~ Jordon C. 

Granite

With all of life's uncertain situations, it's nice to know the union is there to help us.
~ Sana B.

I'm busy teaching during the Legislative session and am grateful someone with classroom experience and input from classroom teachers across the state is speaking to our needs and concerns during the school day at the Legislature. I only get one day off after Parent-Teacher Conferences to come up and speak for myself and occasional afternoons after school when I can make it to a committee hearing I care about that is conveniently scheduled. Without the association, I am effectively gagged because my voice is droned out and ignored by the powers and political agendas pushing for changes to schools that aren't necessarily in the best interest of quality teaching and learning. I wish I could trust the Legislature, but the past decade has proven over and over again that schools are pawns in political games and teachers are conveniently punching bags or props, depending on the day and topic. I hate that about the current Legislature's leadership, but HB267 last year made that abundantly clear if there was any doubt left. PLEASE LISTEN TO US. Come to our classrooms and stop pushing ALEC-sponsored astroturf legislation. We can see right through it.
~ Deborah G.

Please make our class sizes smaller. That would help with behaviors. Please help with special education also. They do so much and have little help.
~Shanna P.

As individual teachers we don’t have extra time to spend worrying about being treated with the respect we deserve, our time primarily goes to our students. Having a union to support our rights and funding is ESSENTIAL, so our focus can be in our classrooms with the students we want to support.
~ Heidi W.

I have seen the difference in having a strong union voice can have in negotiating contracts. Fair compensation and reasonable healthcare can be hard to come by, and our union has made that possible. As a laboratory science teacher, I would be hesitant to conduct laboratory activities with students in our litigious society without the backing that our union provides.
~ Justin M.

You have heard the voices of your educators and public servants. Quit trying to take away the unions and start learning to work with people.
~ Sarah B.

If Utah teachers don’t have a union teachers will be treated with little respect or support. For many many years teachers have been continually asked to do more but no responsibilities are ever taken away. Governments take advantage of teachers loving their students to manipulate them to work more with no real help or compensation.
~ Tammie W.

My legislator said he didn’t have data that his constituents supported HB267 but he supported it anyway. I got my introvert self to go out and gather petition signatures against HB267 because I cared about it that much. The record response to the petition proves how Utahns feel about unions. I hope this was a good reality check for any legislators who had convinced themselves that Utahns didn’t believe in public worker unions!
~ Ryne S.

It is good to know that someone has our back!
~Shelah M.

Teacher unions are professional organizations that help teachers improve their teaching in the classroom and focus on student success.
~ Paulina K.

Trust teachers!
~ Kristen C.

I love having the support of the UEA. They have helped me continue to believe in my important of being an educator and that there is an organization that will support me in the boxing ring that is public education.
~ Carley R.

The UEA has done an excellent job advocating for teachers on the state level while my local GEA has also advocated for teachers. Trying to prevent burn-out and show respect to teachers.
~ Janel R.

Education is a hard job. Harder now than ever before. Knowing someone has our backs and that fights for us is what we need to not completely burn-out. Show that education actually matters for our youth and supports, not attacks, educators.
~ Adrian D.

It has been great to have the backing of the UEA because they have helped to reduce my class sizes, have fought for me to have 5 personal/vacation days and raises.  I believe that public education is very good in Utah and that the legislature doesn't always see that. We need to make sure that the public money goes to public schools. I have confidence that UEA will back me up in situations where I might be accused of something and if they weren't there I could be fired without cause. They give me peace of mind so I can perform my job to the best of my ability.
~ Jane J.

My local and UEA membership helps me advocate for my students more strongly.
~ Kelly C.

Educators need the voice and power our union can give to us because while we would love to be more active in advocating for ourselves on the hill, we are all busy educating the state's children during the time they are actively making decisions which impact our ability to do our jobs.
~ Caitlyn B.

Having someone who supports me is a huge deal. I appreciate having a union who wants to help me be the best school social worker I can be.
~ Seth W.

My union protects my rights and advocates for my students. They help us become better educators and better serve our students.
~ Jared N.

I will go to battle for unions. There is a valid reason people fought to establish them, and they are the reason that working conditions are usually better now than they were 100 years ago. Getting rid of unions because we "don't need them" is like stopping taking my blood pressure medicine because my numbers have come down. The REASON things are staying better is because we have these institutions in place.
~ Elise P.

We are developing all of the professions for the rest of the country. We should be recognized more for what we actually do. Without teachers, there would not be a lot of different professions.
~ Jessika S.

Our union gives us the strong and united voice we need to speak up for best practices in education and what is best for students. Comparisons of educational outcomes between states with strong and weak unions tell a true story.
~ Brittinie G.

If UEA did not exist, I don't think the teaching profession in Utah would be a viable career choice. A strong union makes sure that we are able to have a career that allows us to help our students and still live in our communities.
~ Kenneth W.

The UEA is the voice of teachers in Utah. When you hear from the UEA, teachers feel heard. When you ignore the UEA, teachers feel ignored.
~ Michael M.

Having a union (UEA) advocate for my students and me, frees up time for me to better work to help my students learn. If I didn’t have a Union, I would spend much more time studying the issues and communicating my priorities with legislative leaders, and much less time preparing to meet the needs of my students.
~ Kristen P.

It’s impossible to be supported with everything that goes on in education today without a teacher’s union.
~Jennifer C.

If UEA was dissolved, I would quit teaching! UEA's advocacy has been the factor that has kept me in the classroom over the last 25+ years and I highly value everything UEA has done and continues to do for teachers and the whole education community! Without UEA and the meaningful work they do, the teaching profession would be flushed away, and educators would FLEE from the profession at an even higher rate.  Thank you UEA for your continued support and for standing up against those political leaders who are out to destroy public education.
~ Michelle M.

I would not be teaching as a career without UEA as a resource and support. It is impossible for a district HR department to negotiate salaries and benefits for each employee. Educators are already overburdened and underfunded, without the Union to be able to advocate on our behalf, we would lose many more good teachers trying to make a difference.
~ Tracy H.

Our unions keep our educators safe. They keep class sizes small. They keep our state competitive. Without protected and supported educators, students suffer.
~ Rebecca O.

It’s essential that we be able to bargain. As a former Indiana educator, I know first-hand how not having a union can be detrimental to educators. It impacts us in the classroom and personally through finances. When we lose the right to bargain, we often lose financial compensation that can cause extra financial stress on already underpaid educators. While money isn’t everything, we are teachers by profession but most importantly, we are humans that must survive in a state/country where the cost of living continues to go up.
~ Jessica B.

UEA has represented when I needed it and provided me with a connection to an organization that truly cares.
~ Joni A.

Thank you for all your hard work!
~ Kathy A.

I would hope that all legislators know that having an association to address concerns in a basic need to have a safe environment.
~Amy A.

Knowing that I have an entire organization that has my back helps me to be able to concentrate better on my actual job.
~ Kurt T.

Teaching keeps me so busy that I can't do deeper dives into all the issues. I appreciate having someone else who can tell me what is happening and then let me decide how to vote.
~ Teresa T.

Teachers need higher salaries.
~ Alev A.

A strong union helps support student learning.
~ Erica V.

The UEA and my local association have been essential in securing every job-related benefit I have as teacher, from a living wage to health insurance to legal representation to a duty-free lunch and daily planning time to the Professional Building Committee at my workplace, which enables teachers to resolve school-level issues. Without the fierce and constant advocacy of the UEA, public education and the teaching profession in Utah would be untenable because of such strong, powerful, and misguided opposition from both politicians and private interests. With the UEA, I continue to have hope for public education and for people like me, whose careers are dedicated to helping children become thoughtful, responsible, caring, productive, happy citizens in our democracy.
~ Dayna S.

We are busy educating the most impressionable of our population. We care for and support the children of this state, often putting our students before the needs of our own families. Having someone fight for us, gives us the peace of mind to continue to give our all to our students.
~ Lisa H.

The Union stands up for all of the teachers that are in the classroom teaching while the legislators are at work.
~ Christina O.

I belong to UEA/GEA so I have a voice in the issues and solutions to education in Utah. I love my job as an educator, but it's getting more difficult every year with less funding and less support from both the government and parents. Students and families are in crisis and teachers are left to pick up the pieces.
~ Meredith H.

UEA's work in bargaining contracts provides essential stability and fair compensation for educators, which is crucial for retaining quality teachers and ensuring a high-quality education for all Utah students. Through legislative advocacy and due process representation, UEA provides a necessary voice for educators, allowing us to focus on our jobs while knowing our rights and the needs of our schools are being addressed by a dedicated organization.
~ Darcie E.

Both UEA and GEA are helping me become a better educator. They are helping me through a program for early leaders in education. This wouldn’t be possible for me to do if I didn’t have my unions. I am a proud union member to do all the things my union GEA has done for me.
~ Porter S.

I appreciate someone to represent me if needed.
~ Cynthia J.

As teachers, we need a strong union just like other professions.
~ Bonnie B.

It is vital for teachers to have a strong union. Strong unions protect students and create safe environments. Administrators are overstretched, overworked, and not always competent. Unions are a nuetral arbitrator to help address questions of student and teacher safety. Without them schools will be less rigorous, more dangerous, and less effective. People who don't support teacher unions don't care about kids, parents, their community, or the future of this country.
~ Laura P.

It is so important for educators to be heard and have a voice! Unions are so important!
~Kelli W.

UEA and my local association have provided opportunities for me to advocate for my students and to stay passionate about my profession. My Association has also provided me with some of the best professional development training I have had and helped me grow as a professional and a more effective math teacher.
~ Michele J.

Not only does UEA protect us, but they also help us learn about how all of this works. GEA and UEA help keep me informed.
~ Brooke F.

Knowing my Union bargains with my district for student and teacher incentives brings much ease to my profession. I need to know there are advocates for successful education. At a time when all I hear is negativity, we need hope, knowing our original reason for choosing education as a profession, to raise confident, kind, and successful citizens, is still the primary goal. I am surrounded by devoted, passionate, driven teachers who will do whatever it takes to guide these young Americans to become their best. We need unions to protect this.
~ Celeste R.

UEA has made a difference by making sure that not only teachers have representation, but also the good of the students.
~ Kristie C.

It's important so the idiot republican politicians don't try to take away teachers' rights and help their rich friends with private school money. The republicans are the worst in this state. They are out of touch.
~ Jon S.

Teachers don't have time individually to do the work UEA/GEA does. I am so grateful to have representatives asking for my input, then doing the legwork.  I love my job because of the rights the UEA has bargained for.
~ Stephanie S.

I feel heard as an educator with a strong public educator union in place.
~John R.

Due to a smaller union in a previous school district I left to go to a district that had a stronger union to represent me. In return I am paid more, have better benefits, better use of PD and PLC time, have better resources to teach, and have reduced additional responsibilities for work. I would not teach without a union period.
~ Alexia C.

Educators are expected to do so much with so little resources and having a strong union is crucial.
~ Kaitlyn F.

Having a union makes me feel safe, protected, and respected. The efforts of the Utah Legislature to destroy our unions makes me feel the exact opposite.
~ Sarah C.

Without the support of a bargaining unit teachers would burn out and I believe there would be increase in turnover on teacher
~ Robert B.

Unions protect the voice of the people.  When issues get to the legislative level, the voice of the people diminishes and is unheard.
~ Cindi L.

I believe that having an Association helps improve teacher morale and working conditions. The Association helps unify and prioritize teachers’ biggest concerns.
~ Bonnie F.

I previously worked in a charter school where I carried multiple jobs that equated to having 4 different full-time jobs but only one salary.  I was burned out and wanted to leave education.  I'm now at a district where I make a very similar salary to teach my classes.  Only one job with a decent salary, not 4 jobs for effectively the same money.  Representation is incredibly important.
~ James T.
Teachers need a collective voice. The current Utah Legislature and Governor don't listen to us unless they have to. The GEA/UEA have helped me last and continue to teach in this very difficult time.  I know I am not alone because the union is always there.  I work SO HARD, and they always recognize and support me.
~Annette W.

Teachers and their union work to better the lives of the students they teach. They are the experts in the field, let them do what is best for education
~ Athena P. 

Iron

We need a strong public educator union so we can have a voice!
~ Jaime Y.

Collective bargaining ensures that educator voices are heard.
~ Anna L.

Unions are vital in helping to keep districts in line and helping advocate for teacher needs. Without unions, the voice of the teacher would not be heard.
~ Aimee M.

Jordan

As a 15-year educator, I feel like I have very few people in my corner who can be voice for my safety and well-being.  Without UEA, I would feel completely alone in these tumultuous times.
~Afton C.

I feel it is important to have a strong public educator union in Utah as well as strong public unions for entities such as police and fire fighters. There is strength in numbers and UEA has helped negotiate better working conditions, smaller class sizes and better pay in my district. I believe this would not have happened if teachers had not had a union representative at the bargaining table. I am also very much opposed to the voucher program for two reasons: 1. It takes money away from the public arena, and 2. I want to know how my tax money is being spent. Having worked previously at a private school for 5 years, I know that there was no transparency due to the school being classified as "private". I feel my union is able to address these concerns to legislators during the legislative sessions, something I can't do because I am working in my classroom.
~ Meline H.

I don’t have time to teach and protect myself as a professional; if you prefer, I can spend my time protecting myself professionally—but my teaching would suffer. Education is very much an individual endeavor—both as a teacher and a student; that said, I do need to work and collaborate with other educators…but there needs to be trust and respect. Stop messing with our professional environment, it makes education more difficult, it does not improve much
~ James B.

Without my local union, our district would still be sitting on frozen wages and teachers would all be on welfare.
~ Aleesha N.

They know how important and influential UEA is, that’s why they keep trying to shut down unions and collective bargaining.
~ Eric P.

I’m so grateful to UEA for being an advocate for educators while they are busy working in the classroom. I appreciate having representation by trained educators for educators. They provide knowledge and guidance so lawmakers can make informed decisions about education in our state. I’m grateful for the working relationship between the UEA and those making the laws. Public Education is one of the things that makes America great; it needs careful looking after.
~ Jodi H.

The UEA has been instrumental in helping me make the move from a professional in California to a CTE teacher in Utah.
~ Joshua O.

As a special education teacher, I would not consider teaching without being part of a union!
~ Kay C.

We need our voices to be heard. It’s important to hear our side.
~ Cherie L.

UEA was there for me when I had some very toxic and unprofessional administrators in a new to me District. I would not have stayed in education if it wasn't for UEA
~ Crystal A.

It gives educators a collective voice in working with the legislative leaders to build stronger public schools to serve the needs of all students in the state.
~ Jordan M.

Teachers’ most valuable resource is time.  As much as I like to write to my legislators, I simply don't have the time to commit to advocating for teachers.  The UEA is able to commit the time and resources to advocate for our profession, and the students that we serve.
~ Daniel C.

Knowing that I have someone who truly fights for teachers and truly has my best interests at heart is beyond empowering and comforting.  In a world where it seems like teachers quickly become villains in the story of education, my union is one of the main reasons I stay in education.
~ Samantha S.

It's very important and needed. It's an outlet for educators to have a voice.
~ Cassandra R.

The UEA has ALL educators’ best interests at heart and represent teachers in each district in Utah.
~ Clin E.

Leave the professionals to decide if they want to participate in their Associations!
~Caroldean N.

As someone who has been in education since 1997, the academic climate has changed on so many levels.  We no longer have the support of parents and legislators like we used to and our Associations are more important than ever as a voice during the session as well as back up when our rights are being violated or our expertise questioned.
~ Kelli S.

A strong union that represents the needs of teachers and students, not themselves, or the political machine, is essential as a unified voice that can convey our message, wants, and needs to the state government.
~ Christopher N.

UEA knows the importance of educators representing educators. We need educators’ voices in policy affecting schools and students. Legislators are not education experts. Laws affecting schools need to be written and passed with consultation from education professionals, including the voices of current teachers and students. UEA helps me feel reassured that my voice is represented at the table where decisions are made.
~ Ashlyn A.

I have always been a member of a teacher union. I feel that individually, I have very little voice. With the union we have a stronger voice.
~ Karen W.

I understand that th association negotiates our contracts but other than that, the reason I remain a member is for "malpractice insurance".
~ Dorrelyn S.

Thank you for being there and having our backs on the tough issues.
~ Laura P.

UEA and my local association have helped me share my voice as a teacher. Without them, I would not feel like my voice is being heard, which is demoralizing, and would probably lead to me leaving teaching because if my voice, perspective, and expertise as a teacher aren not being heard, and decisions about education are being made without my input, I feel like I’m not actually making a real educational impact in my students’ educational careers. I know what is best for my students, so my voice is for them.
~Charlotte G.

Utah Education Association provides me with the support I need to teach effectively. They give me a voice when I have concerns, and they care about teachers' needs. They understand the needs of teachers and can negotiate on our behalf.
~ Julie W.

Without UEA, our legislators would have unchecked influence on our classrooms responding to uneducated parent groups rather than responding to research based best practices.  Our education system needs to be stable and make purposeful changes for improvements.
~ Kelly M.

Please trust that the Association is speaking for the majority.
~ Hillary E.

UEA is a comfort to me as a Social Studies teacher. Student/parent misunderstanding or opposition to teaching factual history weighs on me. I appreciate that I can receive support from my union when any potential parent opposes content from the standards.     Also, it is completely impossible for me to negotiate my own salary. Besides the hundreds of educators who would also need to do this with the board, I would have to take time off in order to do so.
~ Shannon A.
 

Juab

The union ensures that teacher voices are heard, especially since government agencies rarely have members that truly understand what happens behind classroom doors.
~ Jennifer Y.

Logan

UEA gives teachers a collective voice to share concerns and celebrations. They have provided bargaining with school district contracts to make policies and procedures equitable for all.
~ Michelle H.

Utah Education Association has provided critical support to our local association in bargaining school district contracts as well as in representing educators in a legal context when the need has arisen.
~ Justin W.

Stop relying on anecdotal "data" when making legislative decisions. Get real numbers from all of the teachers in the state and trust professional K-12 educators to inform them about how to best educate the children of our state.
~ Mike M.

Being a part of UEA is like being part of a team.  We are focused on what works best for success for our students, and united, we are more effective in doing this.
~ Priscilla D.

Millard

I believe that Utah absolutely needs to have a strong public educator union in order to share educators' voices and to negotiate settlement agreements on salary and other things. I think that the Legislature really stepped on some toes when they attempted to take that opportunity away from public educators. I am glad that they demonstrated some flexibility though, and I hope that they will continue to be open-minded about educator rights.
~ Robert B.

Most teachers are responsible and dedicated. Please acknowledge our opinions and trust us to do what is right and fair for students.
~ Joanna H.

Morgan

Teachers need to be able to negotiate and work toward meeting the needs teachers have. It is not easy to do that alone, so a union is needed for bargaining and looking out for public educators.
~ Jennifer H.

UEA provides me with information of what is happening on the hill.  Certainly, wish those leaders who are elected would do the same. UEA has helped me to become more involved with the political side of education.  My union helps ALL teachers not just the members. UEA has been advocating for the children of Utah and puts the needs of the children first!!
~ Denise L. 

Some legislators have proven that teachers are not important to them. Without the union, we would be at their mercy.
~ Kathy N.

Murray

UEA ensures education policy reflects classroom realities while supporting educator growth and retention. This includes advocating for intentional AI policy and professional development across ethics, instruction, personalization, and leadership, as well as stronger tuition reimbursement so educators can continue their professional learning in a rapidly changing landscape.
~ Deanna S.

With public jobs, unions are important to keep us safe equitably paid and protected.
~Stacie E.

UEA has made me feel more confident in my ability to provide my students with what they need in order to be successful in life.
~ Rebecca E.

Having a strong union allows me to have some input in my working conditions and raises. We do what we do to help students succeed not to line our pockets. We truly have the students’ best interests in mind and fight for those interests for all students economically disadvantaged, gifted and talented, wealthy, traumatized, neglected and those with special needs. We serve them all and seek to help them be successful.
~ Heidi P.

I honestly can't find the time to advocate for education. I'm so happy to pay my dues so someone else can advocate wh
If you want us to use our time to be the best teachers we can be, we don't have time to go and lobby for safe schools, reasonable pay, curriculum standards and the like.  We need union representation to be an effective voice.
~ Susan B.

Nebo

Having a strong union helps bring ease into my job by knowing that someone has my back and will fight for me. The union also works to benefit all teachers whether they are part of the union or not, and they have been able to get full-time counselors in our school which has made a huge difference in my workplace
~ Jessica P.

UEA is extremely important - lay off the associations!
~ Bruce E.

Come teach my class for one term.  Then determine how much time you have to negotiate your own needs.
~ Myra M.

Protecting and advocating for us
~ CiCi K.

The union has been a phenomenal support to the teachers in our district.  They are easy to contact and more than willing to assist with problems. It is crucial that educators are allowed to have a union at an affordable cost. It gives educators peace of mind and be able to focus on their job.
~ Amy S.

Knowing that I am part of an organization dedicated to improving schools for both teachers and students has been invaluable as both a teacher and parent. I'm so proud to be a member of the UEA, and I wish all educators would join and help these changes happen at every level.
~Andrew A.

I feel the Utah Education Association benefits my professional life when they take the time to send out information regarding legislative priorities. The UEA helped to advocate for teachers by sending around a petition to be signed. This helps educators be involved in the decisions being made about education.
~ Sandra P.

Yes, the association has helped me be heard when my concerns were not being addressed by my school administrators or the district. The association helped me navigate that and resolve the issue without them the issue would never have been solved thank you.
~ Hilary J.

Everyone needs a say.  If we didn’t have a union, you would walk right over us and not listen to anything we had to say.  We wouldn’t need a union if we felt things were fair. But I don’t see anybody in the classroom from the legislature. How many times does that have to be repeated? The association has made a great impact in my life because it paid for a lawyer to go up against the insurance company that our district has adopted they wouldn’t pay for a medication that I was taking at the time that was actually life-saving and the association helped me actually get what I needed so it does make a difference to have a union not necessarily to bargain, but also to help with other things besides political stuff.
~ Courtney C.

The Utah Education Association is very important to me. They fight for our rights when no one else will.
~ LaDawna L.

Having the opportunity to be a member of the UEA is very important to me. I view it to be as vital as having health insurance or car insurance. I love my family and my home. I have insurance to protect them in every way possible. I also love my profession and have dedicated 17 years of my life to it. With the current social and political climate, I am grateful that I can get support from our public educator union if a difficult situation came about, the same way I would seek help from insurance to support and protect my family.
~ Katie B.

People in any profession need a voice.  The UEA is part of that voice.
~ Alyse F.

It is important to have a voice.
~ Douglas L.

Teacher depression and burn out is real. We need a 4 day week.
~ Andrew B.

Security in knowing someone represents us during those days and times when we can't due to our obligation of serving our students.
~ Treana K.

Ogden

Provided direct support when dealing with disciplinary actions, and legislative initiatives. My OEA reps have been outstanding.
~Zachery W.

It is vital to work and move forward with so many issues on the table.  Our associations help and strive for the best outcome for all.
~ Lisa S.

I have worked without representation before at a charter school, and very effective teachers would be let go because of random things that had nothing to do with academic abilities, such as personality conflicts with administration. That created a very stressful work environment and turnover was excessive. Also, I had students who would cheat, and parents would support them and threaten to sue teachers for harassment, which was also very stressful and scary. We had no support whatsoever.
~ Manuel S.

Teachers need unions more than ever right now.
~ Laraine M.

My experience with the legislature is they listen to the loudest voices. Parents who are involved in government are parents who are involved in their child's education. Over half my students who have parents who can't or won't be involved because they are working too many hours or lack parenting skills themselves. I feel the UEA is often the only voice looking out for these kids in the legislature. That is why I support a strong union.
~ Lyneen H.

UEA really does train us in contracts, teacher protection and behavior, mentoring and much more.  We would be remiss without them
~ Suzanne D.

UEA is super important and necessary
~ Patty N.

Park City

I know my voice is in places where decisions are made because of the UEA. My district has high membership, and it pays in respect and salaries- and competition for positions.  I am troubled that despite multiple times reaching out to my State Representative that she has yet to respond to me. That is one of the many reasons I rely on the UEA, since my representative doesn't acknowledge me. While my Senator and I don't always agree, he always listens and responds- and I respect him for that.
~ Heidi M. 

They help me focus on Utah’s most important resource! Our students!
~ Holly H.

Provo

I trust UEA to help fight battles I cannot on my own. I know that members of the UEA really understand what is happening in classrooms right now, they understand the struggles teachers are facing, and I count on them to be a voice to protect Utah Educators and fight for what is best for students.
~Jayne W.

UEA is such a positive group to have standing up for educators while educators prioritize the teaching of young minds. Threating to restrict union interactions with our schools, districts, and educators just adds to the uncertainty that teachers face. We need the union to advocate for fair pay scales, productive benefit options, and most importantly to support us if we are ever in need of legal support. I was unfortunately part of a charter school, and I was being paid more than someone who had been at that school for 3 years longer than me. A union would have prevented this. In another school, I did not have my employment renewed because I followed appropriate reporting protocols. The union supported me in ensuring that I did not receive poor references as I searched for a new position. We NEED unions in education, and UEA is doing an amazing job!
~ Randee Z.

Teaching has become a dangerous profession. The threat of violence is constantly there as well as the disrespect of many parents and the fear of a district being sued so they don’t support their teachers. I’m glad I pay union dues to know that the UEA has my back and can stand with me if one of these scenarios was to happen.
~ Julie P.

I appreciated the work of my local Union to negotiate that I could take “a vacation” or “personal day” which were often used to attend a graduation (my own or my children’s or attend a PD that I paid for, take care of a sick child, or to visit with out of town family) without having to be penalized by having to pay for the substitute.  The union negotiated that substitute payments would not be deducted from my salary.  That is much appreciated.
~ Tina M.

I work an average of 70 hours a week.  I do not have the time that I would like to spend advocating for teacher’s needs.  Having a union where we can work collectively with our district lightens the load for all of us. As the only elementary teacher in the top 5 finalists for Utah teacher of the year, this is the same message I’ve been communicating with legislators and the governor’s office.
~ Shari P.

The UEA has kept me in teaching because of representation in and defense of teaching. They have helped to pass laws the benefit teachers and students in my classroom.
~ John M.

Representing me in the bargaining process is paramount.  No one teacher can effectively bargain for themselves.
~ Beth H.

A strong union means I don't have to rely on politicians who don't understand the classroom and the education system to be my only advocate.
~Joshua P.

With the 70+ hours per week that I work as an early educator, I need the union to participate in negotiations for me.  I met with the head of the UT Senate Appropriations Committee after HB267.  She felt that teachers could contact their representatives individually and get results without a union.  I explained that I politely contacted my representative on four different occasions (not even during "peak" time), and he was entirely unresponsive.  Surprised, she asked who my representative was.  When I told her his name, she rolled her eyes and said, "Oh we can never find HIM."  That is ONE REASON why I need a union to negotiate for me!
~ Shari P.

My union works with my school district very well and I have loved the collective bargaining they fight for me every year.
~ Erika Y.

Stop trying to bust the union
~ Christy G.

Salt Lake

A strong public educator union is the ONLY way to be sure that our students and staff get what they need in Utah.
~ Valerie G.

We need unions to represent us.  I wouldn't have had the pay I have now, the quality time with my family, and the quality of life I enjoy now with out the union fighting on my behalf and any attempt to remove the union voice from representing me is a direct attack on me, my family, my children, my students, and my community.
~ Kenan B.

There has to be a hub that collects data and feedback and communicates the collective voices needs. Without it we are many voices without a direction to funnel our concerns to
~ Janelle O.

Educators need to unify because that amplifies our voices- nothing nefarious, just a way to organize and try to let lawmakers know what is happening in our schools.
~ Chris S.

A strong public educator union is essential to the strengthening of our public education sector, thus to meeting all our children’s educational needs. A strong public educator union is not a threat to politicians or the state. It’s rather the ally needed to guarantee our state is providing the education our students need and deserve.
~ Amadou N.

Paid parental leave and protected planning time.
~ Kristy J.

UEA is supporting me in two key issues right now. If it weren’t for their help and guidance, I’d feel very alone in my troubling issues and replaceable instead of valued.
~ Cece C.

At the building level, UEA truly represents a very professional--very dedicated, receptive, and growth-oriented--group of educators.
~ Steven D.

There is no one who understands the needs and issues facing public education than teachers. UEA ensures that teachers’ voices are being heard in the rooms where policy decisions that affect our students are being made. My mentors in my local education associations have been some of the strongest professional connections I've made, and they are likely the reason why I still remain in the profession. It often feels like they are the only voices in our community that are advocating for sensible education policies and practices for the betterment of our students.
~ Ryan M.

I started my career in Oklahoma, a state that has banned collective bargaining, and I made poverty level wages. In SLCSD, I am paid well for my hard work, education, and experience. I will not go back to the dark ages; I will leave education before I teach without collective bargaining.
~ Creed A.

I feel like my union respects and values me and my profession, which in turn grows the next generation of citizens in our state. I feel that legislators have let us down with negative rhetoric and reducing important programs.
~ Robin R.

Collective bargaining made this country the best place in the world for workers to live by the 1950s.  Its decline has only helped the rich get richer.
~ Matthew S.

Having a strong public educator union is critical to advocating for better teacher pay and teaching conditions.  When pay is fair and conditions are satisfactory, the whole community benefits.  We attract and retain quality educators, and nobody knows what's best for students better than teachers themselves.  When teachers have a seat at the table to make decisions about educational policy and advocate for students and teachers, it leads to better student outcomes, which leads to better community outcomes.
~ Bayley M.

Without the perspective and collective voice of a public educator union, decisions will be made with eyes and ears closed. Education is changing more quickly than ever before. Needs and challenges need to be seen, discussed, and addressed.
~Joseph V.

UEA creates and supports teachers, students and parents.
~ Laurie N.

Strong unions protect educators and provide benefits that make me want to continue to be an educator.
~ Matt D.

Remember that the Utah Education Association gives voice to the people most directly involved in the classroom. The house now just has two classroom teachers in that very large body. We are your constituents, taxpayers, and teachers.
~ Moses B.

UEA gives me leadership opportunities and the confidence to advocate for my students and public education.
~ Sayre P.

I know the UEA has my back! And I so appreciate their tireless work!
~ Bobbi M.

I want them to know that UEA advocates for me when my school district falls short. Our labor rights need defending, at will employment or other such things are looming over so many career options, teaching is a space for us to have a lasting career. UEA helps us gain stability in our working lives.
~Jeremy R.

Our Association “merely” provides lawmakers with the opportunity to actually hear and understand what is going on in the trenches so they can legislate from the hill rather than actually set foot in a school. Education is not a for-profit business and can’t function as such. Lawmakers need to recognize this fact—we do not have a hiring manager we can discuss annual goals and raises with. We do not get to report to OSHA that we do not get adequate breaks to use the bathroom or eat our lunch. Our Association makes sure our working conditions are meeting mutually agreed upon standards.   Last session in my correspondence with Governor Cox, I likened education to the military—as teachers, we are on the front lines and making a difference whereas lawmakers, superintendents, and board members are a million miles away making major decisions without any input from teachers. Without our own representation (UEA and district associations) we have no voice. Without a voice, there is no buy-in.
~ Mercedes B.

It is crucial for educators to have a seat at the table when discussing the best educational interests for students. Our legislature needs to spend time in classrooms to fully understand the challenges that teachers face every day.
~ Peter H.

Many teachers already feel that their voices are being silenced within their own districts. Having a union allows us to speak up collectively, giving us a sense of power over our careers and our classrooms. It creates opportunities to be heard as a unified group, especially in situations where an individual voice might otherwise go unnoticed.
~ Kelli P.

Keep public money out of private education!
~Aubrey G. 

Sevier

The union fights for better pay. It is imperative to keep teachers.
~ Jody S.

UEA is there for teachers to have a voice. It is very important that legislation listens to people who are actually in the classroom that make decisions every minute of the day and not someone sitting in an office space that hasn't even been in a classroom.
~ Kimberly B.

Thank you.
~ Danielle B.

Tooele

I need the union to be my voice as I am too busy with teachers and students to take the time away to fight for the rights of educators and students.
~Tammy R.

Do not take away our voice!
~ Aly L.

Someone needs to be on our side, protecting our rights. We are the ones who bravely go into our schoolhouses every day and do the real work. We shape the future and we love our kids! Give us what we need so that we can get back to what we love… teaching!!
~ Ember H.

A voice for teachers is necessary!
~ Skyler B

I am so grateful for the support of the Utah Education Association. With their backing, our school district changed a policy that will allow more students access to speech education services, by removing the requirement that classroom teachers do 6 weeks of 3 times a week of speech interventions before they are allowed to refer a student for speech services.
~ Tiffany T.

Keep working like you are. We need to be heard.
~ Laura B.

I believe in unions representing the interests of employees and I feel there is higher morale and a willingness to do your part when you have a union to watch out for your best interests.
~ Maureen E.

Uintah

Many studies show that collective efficacy (among the staff) is the number one indicator of student learning and success.  My association is part of collective strength. They provide support beyond my PLC, my school, and my district.  This job requires A LOT, and we need that support to do our best. The professional learning and leadership my association provides is a key factor in my becoming an award-winning teacher. It also KEEPS me in this profession during difficult times.  The association provides something that district simply cannot. Advocacy from the classroom to the Hill is essential.
~Aaryn B.

I am willing to continue being an educator in Utah in part because of our union. If I did not have the UEA I would be looking for work in other states. I will not work without union protection.
~ Tresa R.

It has helped us feel valued and supported especially at a time when behavior issues are at a high, parents support is lacking, and expectations are overwhelming.
~ Bernadette F. 

Wasatch

UEA makes a huge difference! They make me feel like I have a voice in my rural community!
~ Carin L.

The Utah Education Association plays a critical role in advocating not only for fair pay and working conditions, but also for the learning conditions of our students. When educators have a collective voice, they are better positioned to speak up for manageable class sizes, adequate resources, student support services, and safe, inclusive schools. These issues directly affect the quality and equity of public education in our communities.    Research and lived experience consistently show that strong unions help stabilize the teaching profession, reduce turnover, and attract talented educators to classrooms, especially in under-resourced districts. Investing in teachers is an investment in students, families, and the long-term health of our democracy.
~ Charlotte F.

Thank you for allowing UEA to play its role in helping teachers.
~ Brent M.

Without our UEA we would still have some terrible bills and low salaries! The awful homeschool funding bill that gave home families $8,000 with no restrictions was nuts!
~ Sheila J.

Washington Co.

The union is essential to allow educators' voices to be heard and protected.
~ Oyunn H.

I feel UEA is always there and they have my back!
~Cynthia C.

Utah educators respectfully urge legislators to support policies that reduce class sizes, provide competitive and sustainable educator compensation, and strengthen efforts to recruit and retain high-quality teachers. Smaller class sizes allow educators to give students the individualized attention they need to succeed, while fair pay and retention initiatives help stabilize schools and reduce turnover. Investing in these priorities supports student achievement, strengthens local communities, and ensures long-term success for Utah’s public education system.
~ Andrew W.

I know that if we did not have the union representing us when we negotiate our contract, it would be a disaster! Pay would go down; benefits would go up...
~ Karen S.

Teachers are repeatedly marginalized by both the public and often the district and school administrators. Teachers often feel that there is nowhere to turn where it is safe to express their experiences or concerns. This affects their well-being.  UEA is often the only place that still acknowledges teachers as professionals, listens to our experiences and concerns, and addresses them. I am grateful that UEA understands that teacher well-being is crucial as it directly impacts our students’ behavior, engagement, and success.
~ Barbie C.

The union is the only group who holds teachers in a high regard and fights for our best interests.
~ Summer C.

It is important to have a voice when it comes to the decisions being made for, not only teachers, but our students.  We are stronger as a union than being alone. It is important to have representation.
~ Rosemarie S.

With strong union representation, comes a higher investment from teachers in our jobs. They matter more to us because we matter more.
~ Kim A.

It provides a voice of people that are experiencing the issues and situations - as educators we need this now and in the future.
~ Rosemarie S.

More people should be in the UEA and the legislature and local boards should be more honest when they talk about what UEA does.
~Stacy H.

The UEA makes it possible to have the support needed as a teacher to be heard and have the power to make changes happen.
~ Ryan M. 

Wayne

We don't have a strong voice, if we are unable to rely on our unions.
~ Nichol S. 

Weber

I have been a member of UEA for 30 years, and my parents before me. I have appreciated that UEA leadership focuses on issues that affect teachers and students in the classroom. While I appreciate efforts made by legislators to help teachers, such as increasing legislative money given to teachers each year, I wish legislators would fully appreciate the hard work that teachers do day in and day out, dealing with students with various needs, everchanging curriculum and societal demands, and increasing adverse behavior expressed by students in our classroom. If legislators came and spent an entire week in our classes, planning lessons, analyzing assessment data, dealing with behavior issues, etc., I think they might better understand the challenges we not only face, but meet head on.
~ Shannon O.

A union is essential for bargaining rights with districts and state.
~ Jennifer E.

I wouldn’t teach without being a member of the UEA. With everyone upset at teachers and sue happy. I have peace of mind that someone has my back. Because the district and state don’t have my back.  Our union has also negotiated more workdays for teachers which is great for a first-grade teacher who gets 2 hours a week to plan
~ Sara V

Being a member of the UEA has helped me feel supported, given me a voice, and provided me with valuable resources…all of which help me be a better teacher.
~ Michelle W.

Negotiating contracts to get better working conditions.  Represent concerns and desires that professionals need to be effective at their job.  Making me aware of rights and responsibilities. 
~ Kathy C.

As a teacher, a strong union ensures I have due process, fair working conditions, and a professional voice. When teachers are supported and protected, we’re better able to focus on what matters most—our students.
~ Kim C.

If they the public officials won't come and visit schools, then the union is the best way to show teacher’s needs.
~Shelley V.

It gives a voice. Keeps everyone up to date on what is going on in the legislature and protects our work environment.
~ Emily C.

It is very important to have a body of advocates to be a voice for educators in policy decisions and discussions.
~ Mary F.

Thank you for all you do to represent us!
~ Amy W.

Having third party professional representation for educators is essential for educator voices to be heard.
~ Joseph B.

The education association has been so supportive of me over the years.  I cannot imagine doing this without their support.  When I needed advice, the education association was there to help advocate for me.  With my first child I was expected to do my own grading and update lesson plans on the spot.  Parents were given my home phone number.  This was a difficult time as my daughter was not feeding well. When I went to the association with this issue for my second child the support was given and I did not have to provide the extra work.  It was so appreciated and a stress relief for me.  This has happened numerous times throughout my career.  Knowing I have an advocate has made all the difference for me.
~Gaylene G.

I feel safer knowing I have people on my side! Especially someone in my school who I can get real answers from with the increased behaviors of students and the lack of support from a lot of parents.
~ Kristen B.

The UEA looks out for me, so I can look out for students.
~ Jennifer G.

I appreciate how my association went to represent all paraprofessionals in their negotiations without the majority of them being members. I think this is an example of where a union can still positively impact non-members and non-members can still give input.
~ Travis C.

A strong union keeps my lunch, my lunch.  It keeps my breaks, my breaks.  It also allows me to ensure my district is doing what is best for me AND my students regarding rules and regulations.
~ Rebekah B.

The Utah Education Association is crucial to providing me a voice in this state’s decision making not only at the state level, but also the local level. We have folks at the state level trying to make decisions about things they know very little about, nor care to get input from the folks in the trenches that have to deal with the ramifications of these decisions. The UEA acts as a buffer and advocates for me and my colleagues in education.
~ Kristi C.

As a member of the UEA, I feel like I actually have a voice in my district. I also feel that the UEA has helped me stay in education because I feel like someone has my back when it seems that everyone else is tearing educators down left and right. My district has been very vocal about wanting input from educators on the contract--which is very much appreciated.
~ Hillary L.

As educators we are too busy to keep track of everything that is going on in the legislature. We need the union to do that for us.
~ Sarah C.

I feel that the UEA helps me to have a voice at the state and district level. They provide valuable help to make changes that people who have not taught understand. Teaching is a very stressful job, and the association helps retain teachers because we have a place to voice our concerns and to create solutions to our profession.
~ Nicole N.

Unions are for the people, and politicians are supposed to be for the people. The two are not at odds if the welfare of the legislators’ constituents is truly the priority of those who claim to represent us.
~ Kaitlin E.

Having a strong public educator union in Utah is an essential factor in solving the problems teachers and students face in our public schools. By banding together, we become stronger advocates not only for ourselves, but also for the students and communities we serve.
~ Loveena W.

Teachers need to feel heard and supported. I have seen great teachers leave our profession due to lack of support. Student behavior is at an all-time high, and our state is pushing inclusion of students who cannot access the curriculum due to disabilities, both academically and behaviorally.
~ Amy O.

A strong public educator union creates strong educators. They are not just an advocate for teachers, they also provide training and professional learning as well as make sure we have good working conditions. The UEA is vital to the continued success of education in Utah.
~ Crystal W.