MEA needs YOU! Membership in your union is more important than ever! Scan the QR code or click here to join!

1. A VOICE IN YOUR WORKING CONDITIONS
As we collectively bargain our wages, hours and working conditions, we help define the most tangible aspects of our profession for Manatee County teachers and paraprofessionals.

2. ADVOCACY FOR OUR STUDENTS & SCHOOLS
Through student scholarships, community outreach and policy advocacy, MEA members are working together to ensure our students and our neighborhood public schools have the resources they need to thrive.

3. REPRESENTATION WHEN IT'S NEEDED
MEA members are guaranteed representation in matters related to their job. In administrative meetings, and in the event of certification or investigations by outside agencies, membership means support for and protection of due process rights.

4. PROFESSOINAL GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT
Members have access to a wealth of professional resources through our local, state and national organizations; we are committed to high-quality instruction at every level of education.

Don’t be fooled by imitators who offer liability coverage only. Last year alone 17 members faced false allegations of child abuse requiring legal representation for criminal investigations (CPS), for defense of certificate (DOE) as well as for district investigations (OPS).  In the last decade, there have been 0 members requiring liability coverage.

When it comes to coverage MEA along with its affiliates, FEA, AFT and NEA, has members covered in all areas of job related issues including legal, and it’s all included in the price of your dues.

Coverage includes but is not limited to:

• Allegations of child abuse resulting in criminal charges
• Ethics charges referred to the Department of Education
• Questions of competency reflecting on job performance
• Representation in disputes with school level administration
• High dollar liability coverage

In addition, members have the benefit of:

• An outstanding legal team with over 75 years of aggregate experience and a staff of full-time attorneys who deal exclusively with members’ legal issues.
• A network of labor lawyers throughout the state
• MEA officers and staff to guide members through the process
• No limitations on fees, hours or nature of the case

MEA is excited to announce a brand-new benefit just for MEA Members — Introducing MemberAssist, your personal assistant/life concierge and your benefits resource!

Life’s to-do list can pile up fast — but with MemberAssist (powered by the Overalls platform), you don’t have to tackle it alone. Whether it’s scheduling appointments, navigating healthcare, apartment hunting, or figuring out what benefits you’re eligible for, MemberAssist is here to help.

Here’s what you can use it for:

● Finding a doctor, dentist, or mental health provider
● Managing insurance or understanding your MEA member benefits or school district provided benefits
● Booking child care, elder care, or pet care
● Travel planning, home repairs, and more!

How it works:

Just submit a request through the Overalls platform and a real-life concierge will jump in to help — communicating with you by text, email, or phone (your choice). Your requests are 100% confidential between you and the Overalls team.

Create your account now: www.MemberAssist.net   

***You must use the email address MEA has on file (the email where you receive eDues notifications)**

This service is completely free for you — MEA has covered the cost so you can get expert help, save time, and reduce stress.

Make life easier. Try MemberAssist today!