My experience in this union began as a building representative at Richardson Park Elementary, where I spent my first nine years of teaching. I was later asked to join my local executive board as the Community Finance Review Committee chair and Political Action chair soon after. I became Vice-President prior to my current role of President of the Red Clay Education Association.
Leading by example has been a cornerstone of my service in my various roles. I have given countless public comments, knocked on doors, and made phone calls during campaign season. Collaboration and perspective are additional components to my style of leadership. I have worked to make connections with our school board members through our coffee chats and have sat on negotiations committees. I have spent time visiting buildings and talking to our various groups like nurses and speech-language pathologists. Over the last three years, our membership has grown from 84% to 87%, while signing on at least 90 new members after our initial new hire events the past two years.
My work has consistently revolved around two ideas: we must encourage and empower our members to advocate for themselves and their students; and we must provide the tools and resources for them to be successful as they do so. As a local leader, I have been committed to give the tools and resources to my members as they become advocates for the betterment of our profession.
Why? Members expect and deserve this from their leaders. Members deserve leaders that will Listen, Lead, and Organize around the issues that are most pressing. That is what I will bring to the table as your DSEA VP. I would be honored to earn your vote and serve as your DSEA Vice-President.
Tameka Mays for President
Steven Fackenthall for Vice President
