The Buzz about Union 101

Recently, WPEA has been hosting Union 101 informational classes.  We’ve gotten a few questions as to what this class entails, whether or not it’s the same as a member meeting, and if they are mandatory.  So we want to set the record straight as to what a Union 101 Meeting is all about.
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WPEA is continuing to conduct basic union education meetings. These meetings are designed to inform members about how unions work and specifically how the WPEA works. The curriculum consists of breaking down and explaining the basic functions of a union, some union history and the role of the membership.  In the past, we’ve received many questions as to what is a grievance, what is a shop steward and how does the contract work.  In Union 101 we break each topic down and explain the process, the role of WPEA, and allow each member to grasp a general understanding.
 
 The topics included in the class include:
1. How unions work (history)
2. Where do my dues go?
3. Why the union is important
4. What opportunities are there to get involved?
5. Representation
6. Organizing
7. Politics
8. Bargaining updates
9. Committees
10. Where do we go from here?
 
WPEA will be scheduling member meetings with a classroom setting specifically designed to increase your knowledge of the role of Unions. In each one hour session, we will explore the inner workings of WPEA and provide you with the information to answer your questions about your union. While this session is not mandatory, we encourage all members to attend.  Please be on the lookout for a session coming to your workplace. If you would like to schedule a class for a specific date, please contact the WPEA office.