It’s Day 1: Teachers’ window to resign from union membership has opened

Educators ready to exercise their freedom of choice regarding union membership can begin doing so today. Minnesota’s teachers’ union, Education Minnesota, recently expanded the opt-out window from seven days in September to the entire month (Sept. 1-Sept. 30). You have 30 days to resign, otherwise your membership automatically renews.

Educators can generate a resignation letter here to submit to Education Minnesota from now through September 30. Please follow the step-by-step guide we have provided to ensure the union honors your resignation. We encourage sending a copy of your letter to your local union and a copy to your school district so payroll knows to stop deducting dues from your paycheck.

Union membership is a personal decision, and educators are deciding to resign for a variety of reasons. Some want to protect their income rather than pay union dues, others don’t support the union’s political positions, and some don’t think the union is providing enough value for what they pay in dues. You owe it to yourself to exercise your rights, regardless of your decision.

Please share this post with an educator in your life. And understand that this is not an easy decision for most educators. The teachers’ union has been imbedded in the culture of teaching, K-12 schools and our state polity for over 50 years.

Still on the fence about your decision? Check out our FAQ that includes questions from teachers with answers by teachers. We hope educators find these helpful!

Didn’t see your question listed? Reach out to us at [email protected], where we answer each email personally and promptly.

This September resignation window is about what’s right for you, your students, and your family. And remember, you are not alone! Many educators have decided union membership is not the best choice for them.