Participants in this course will explore their role as members of the Association bringing their work experience to the group to examine the importance of leadership skills, structures and provide reflection and input for the growth of the local Association. This course will foster the development of collaboration skills and confidence in these future leaders and provide a springboard to being involved, at a variety of levels. Participants will work collaboratively with each other and leaders in the Association to:

• Understand school/department/association structure and climate,
• Engage educators in providing learning and working conditions information,
• Solicit input from colleagues and current leaders to deepen understanding
• Develop collaboration skills and quality participation on a team
• Consider the pathways to build Association strength through participation

The current level of involvement and understanding of the “nuts and bolts” of the TEA is a reflection of member understanding and skill set to be willing to engage as active members in the monthly work of the Association. As the local continues to experience attrition due to retirements as well as decreasing membership and committee participation there is a need to provide foundational skills for the educators in the bargaining unit and local leadership.

Upon completion of this course, the Educator will:

• Develop a deeper understanding of the structure and bylaws of the Thompson Education Association through interaction with elected and volunteer teacher leaders during live (in-person or zoom meetings)
• Explore the value of being an active member of the Thompson Education Association through self-assessment of their own personal and professional skills; often transferable from the classroom to the Association.
• Learn and apply organizing and team collaboration skills which will increase their confidence and willingness to engage with current committees, including Bargaining (Interest Based Negotiation methods), Member Rights, and Membership.
• Explore potential member and member perspectives about issues relevant to the teaching contract through relational dialog.
• Formulate goals for their own growth of both skills and participation which will benefit the Education Association during the current school year and into the future.
• Share their perspective and ideas about ways that they can help strengthen the Education Association through supporting membership growth, activities which enhance the welcoming environment of the Association, and formulate next steps for implementing advisory teams to work with current committee chairs to increase involvement in the Association.