ASHA and NEA Virtual Town Hall: "Partnering with Teacher Unions to Improve Working Conditions for Schools"

Come join ASHA in a joint Virtual Town Hall with the National Education Association (NEA) called “Partnering with Teacher Unions to Improve Working Conditions for Schools,” which is being held on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, from 7–8:30 PM EST. 

This event is intended to provide guidance on how best to operate within the organizational frameworks of teacher unions, especially as it relates to the development of contractual language within bargaining agreements to improve working conditions in schools. We will share information and strategies to support school-based members with engaging in their school districts’ teacher unions by addressing the following:

• Distinguishing Roles: Assist school-based members understand the distinct roles of an association and teacher unions. This knowledge is vital for effective collaboration and advocacy.
• Union Involvement: Highlight the benefits of joining teachers’ unions. Participants will learn how to become involved in organized labor, foster a stronger community, and promote shared goals.
• Support in “Right to Work” States: Address ways to support school-based members who work in “Right to Work” states that lack stronger unions.

Panelists

The following panelists will be sharing their experiences, success stories, and involvement with teacher unions to affect change within their school districts:

• Mary P. Dooher, MA, CCC-SLP, Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District (Alaska)
• Tom Israel, Senior Director Center for Organizing, National Education Association
• Marian Lowther, MS, CCC-SLP, University of South Florida (Florida)
• Julie Malone, MS, CCC-SLP, La Mesa-Spring Valley School District (California)
• Tom Parton, MS, CCC-SLP, Private Practice (Illinois)

ASHA CEUs and PDHs are not being provided for this event.