Good afternoon,

Today the Educators Taking Action slate has officially gotten to work. Your WTU elected officers have spent the day at the office meeting with the staff, sharing the platform we were elected to implement and assessing where we are so that we know what steps we have to take to bring us into the future.

Our main areas of focus this week are growing our personnel to fit our new vision, how to handle grievances and the WTU Leave Bank in a centralized and streamlined manner, and building more robust Standard Operating Procedures to ensure the office better serves our members.

We will be calling on members in the coming weeks to begin taking action in our working groups around New Educator Orientation, Union Leadership Institute and our Grievance strategy.

We know that IMPACT grievances, illegal excessings and more are happening right now, and we appreciate your patience as we quickly get a centralized system up and running to take in those issues and ensure that they are handled in a timely fashion. We appreciate your patience as this is developed and expect to have a clearer process with the remaining staff early next week.

We are looking forward to working together to build a stronger union. 

Laura Fuchs

WTU President

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Dear WTU Members,

We are proud to share a financial update that marks a new chapter in our union's history. Thanks to the smart financial decisions and steadfast leadership, the Washington Teachers' Union is now in its strongest position in over 15 years.

✅ We have fully paid off all outstanding debt to DCPS.
✅ We successfully retired a $1.5 million second mortgage.
✅ We maintained a strong membership rate of 85% or higher.

These achievements are not just numbers—they represent stability, strength, and a renewed foundation for growth. By eliminating our financial burdens and preserving high member engagement, we have positioned the WTU for long-term success and sustainability.

This leadership team is proud to leave the union better than we found it—financially sound, well-positioned, and ready for the future. The WTU is now equipped to focus fully on advocating for educators, improving working conditions, and advancing public education without the weight of past financial constraints.

Together, we’ve built a stronger union. Together, we’ve set the stage for success.

Departing In solidarity,

Nadia Casseus Torney

Treasurer

📣 WTU LEAVE BANK ENROLLMENT IS OPEN!

June 1 – August 31

The Washington Teachers’ Union is proud to offer two collective leave banks that support our educators when they need it most:

🩺 Sick Leave Bank
👶🏽 Parental Leave Bank

💡 Why Join a Leave Bank?

Life happens — whether it’s an unexpected illness or the arrival of a new child, having access to additional paid leave can make all the difference. By contributing just one day of your own sick leave, you help protect yourself and your fellow union members from going unpaid during critical times.

Benefits of joining:

• Access to additional paid leave when your leave runs out
• Coverage for emergencies
• Support a system rooted in solidarity and collective care

✅ Who Can Enroll?

All WTU members are eligible to enroll during the open period. Enrollment is voluntary, but only those who contribute are eligible to apply for days from the bank.

🗓️ Enrollment Period:

June 1 through August 31

Don’t wait — Enroll today. Don’t delay!

Find Leave Banks FAQs HERE

Questions? Contact WTU at 202-517-1477 or email [email protected]

Together, we’ve got each other covered.

We are Better Together.

No longer interested in using the LEAVE BANK?

🌂CLICK HERE TO  OPT -OUT. 

(Your leave will automatically roll over next year if you do not opt out during the enrollment period)

• LEA Look Forward for June 27, 2025: DC SAYS Data, Summer Literacy Leader Training, and More

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📣 WTU LEAVE BANK ENROLLMENT IS OPEN!

June 1 – August 31

The Washington Teachers’ Union is proud to offer two collective leave banks that support our educators when they need it most:

🩺 Sick Leave Bank
👶🏽 Parental Leave Bank

💡 Why Join a Leave Bank?

Life happens — whether it’s an unexpected illness or the arrival of a new child, having access to additional paid leave can make all the difference. By contributing just one day of your own sick leave, you help protect yourself and your fellow union members from going unpaid during critical times.

Benefits of joining:

• Access to additional paid leave when your leave runs out
• Coverage for emergencies
• Support a system rooted in solidarity and collective care

✅ Who Can Enroll?

All WTU members are eligible to enroll during the open period. Enrollment is voluntary, but only those who contribute are eligible to apply for days from the bank.

🗓️ Enrollment Period:

June 1 through August 31

Don’t wait — Enroll today. Don’t delay!

Find Leave Banks FAQs HERE

Questions? Contact WTU at 202-517-1477 or email leavebanks@wtulocal6.net

Together, we’ve got each other covered.

We are Better Together.

No longer interested in using the LEAVE BANK?

🌂CLICK HERE TO  OPT -OUT. 

(Your leave will automatically roll over next year if you do not opt out during the enrollment period)

Miss the AM Brew? Catch up here

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Dear WTU Members,

As my time as President of the Washington Teachers’ Union comes to a close, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to each of you—for your unwavering dedication to our profession, for the trust you placed in me over the past years, and for the solidarity we’ve shared through some of the most defining moments in our Union’s history.

From serving as your Vice President to leading as your President, it has been the honor of a lifetime to stand with you and for you. Together, we have weathered unprecedented challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and emerged stronger. We’ve fought hard—and won—for the dignity and respect every educator deserves, securing not one, but two contracts that reflect the true value of our work. We’ve pushed to place a librarian in every school, demanded safe learning environments, and worked tirelessly to restore and strengthen the financial health of our Union.

Each of these victories belongs to all of us. It has truly been the honor of my professional life to lead this union alongside so many passionate, committed colleagues.

My journey began over three decades ago in the classrooms of Washington, D.C.—from Plummer to Hyde, from Thomson to Savoy, where I was honored to serve a community that helped shape who I am. Every student, every colleague, every lesson along the way deepened my resolve to advocate for equity, excellence, and opportunity.

While I won’t be leading from the front anymore, I will continue cheering you on from the sidelines. If we continue to support each other and stand together the WTU will continue to thrive—because it is powered by your passion, resilience, and commitment to one another.

Thank you again—for the years, the memories, and the mission we’ve shared. I wish you nothing but continued strength and success as you carry our work forward.

In Solidarity Forever,
Jacqueline Pogue Lyons

P.S. Thank you and love you much Noah, Ashley, Mommy, Michelle, and Kimberly!

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Dear WTU Family,

As we near the end of another school year, I want to take a moment to thank you for all your continued dedication, energy, and advocacy on behalf of your students and one another. Your commitment to our profession and our union makes a difference every day.

I want to begin by reminding everyone that the 2025 WTU Leadership Elections will close at 5:00 PM today, Monday, June 16. If you haven’t yet cast your vote, please make time to do so before the deadline. Your vote is your voice — and it’s essential that every member has a say in the direction of our union. You should have received a personalized voting link in your email.

As we approach the Juneteenth holiday, we honor the enduring fight for freedom, justice, and equity for Black Americans. Let this day serve as both a celebration and a reminder of the work that still lies ahead — in our schools, our communities, and our union. WTU remains committed to advocating for racial and social justice in education and beyond.

Finally, I encourage all members to take a moment to consider enrolling in one or both of WTU’s collective leave banks — the Sick Leave Bank and the Parental Leave Bank — which are now open for enrollment through August 31. These leave banks were created to support members during some of life’s most challenging or joyful moments, from unexpected medical situations to welcoming a new child. By donating just one day of your own sick leave, you help build a reserve that can provide crucial paid leave to fellow educators when they need it most — and you remain eligible to access that support yourself, should the need arise.

Enrollment is voluntary, but only those who contribute during the open period are eligible to request leave. If you’ve already enrolled in the past and wish to continue, no action is required — your enrollment will roll over automatically unless you choose to opt out. For more information, including eligibility details and FAQs, visit our website or contact us directly at (202) 517-1477 or leavebanks@wtulocal6.net.

Thank you again for your commitment, your participation, and your continued belief in the collective power of our union. Together, we are stronger. Together, we are WTU.

I hope everyone has a wonderful summer filled with fun, wellness, joy, and time for self-care — and a meaningful Juneteenth.

In solidarity,
Jacqueline Pogue Lyons
President, Washington Teachers’ Union
We Are Better Together.

Greetings WTU Members,

As of June 11, 2025, 26% of you all voted in 2025 WTU Elections! Today is the last day! Please cast your vote by 5 pm today.

If you did not receive a ballot, email help+wtu@yeselections.com and copy djackson@wtulocal6.net.

Since time is of the essence, please email both parties at the same time to ensure all stakeholders receive the request simultaneously. 

If you have any additional questions, email wtu[email protected] 

The WTU Elections Committee 

                                  The Teaching with Improvisation Fellowship SY 25-26

The Summer Institute will take place from June 23-26, 2025 (30 PLUs)

SY 25-26 coaching and dissemination of training (15 PLUs)

This Teaching with Improvisation Fellowship is designed for 25-30 teachers. All participants will create content that will be shared with thousands of teachers via Inspired Teaching’s PD resources for teachers. This training will help to build teachers’ expertise in Inspired Teaching’s Instructional Approach as applied to the new OSSE SEL Standards. Students of participating teachers and those who use the materials generated by the program will see a strong improvement in each focus competency. DCPS participants can earn 30 PLUs during the Summer Institute and 15 PLUs in the Fall during the demonstration phase. Scan the QR code on the flyer for more information.

📣 WTU LEAVE BANK ENROLLMENT IS OPEN!

June 1 – August 31

The Washington Teachers’ Union is proud to offer two collective leave banks that support our educators when they need it most:

🩺 Sick Leave Bank
👶🏽 Parental Leave Bank

💡 Why Join a Leave Bank?

Life happens — whether it’s an unexpected illness or the arrival of a new child, having access to additional paid leave can make all the difference. By contributing just one day of your own sick leave, you help protect yourself and your fellow union members from going unpaid during critical times.

Benefits of joining:

• Access to additional paid leave when your leave runs out
• Coverage for emergencies
• Support a system rooted in solidarity and collective care

✅ Who Can Enroll?

All WTU members are eligible to enroll during the open period. Enrollment is voluntary, but only those who contribute are eligible to apply for days from the bank.

🗓️ Enrollment Period:

June 1 through August 31

Don’t wait — Enroll today. Don’t delay!

Find Leave Banks FAQs HERE

Questions? Contact WTU at 202-517-1477 or email leavebanks@wtulocal6.net

Together, we’ve got each other covered.

We are Better Together.

No longer interested in using the LEAVE BANK?

🌂CLICK HERE TO  OPT -OUT. 

(Your leave will automatically roll over next year if you do not opt out during the enrollment period)

Do you believe that everyone has the power to make a positive impact in your school, district, or city? Apply for the 2025 Community Changemakers Grant!

Form a team of 3-5 educators, program leaders, and/or community members and share why you are passionate about creating environments where young people have agency, lead with empathy, work together, and are motivated to tackle real world challenges. Eight total teams in the Washington, DC and Chicago, IL metro areas will receive $10,000 in funding and have the unique opportunity to turn that passion into a plan for the 2025-2026 school year. You’ll also be asked to think through 3 initial ideas for how you could get started.

Whether you’re working in the classroom or leading change in your district or community, this experience is for you!

Educators — we want to hear from you! As the school year wraps up, we’re inviting you to share your experience with The Great Thanksgiving Listen. Your testimonial can inspire and encourage others to get involved next year. Recording is quick and easy—just a few minutes—and your story will help spread the word about this meaningful project. We look forward to hearing from you!

TGTL: 24-25 EoY Testimonial

Medstar Georgetown WISE Center is conducting a survey to better understand Educator Wellbeing as well as access to services and supports in DC. The information gathered through this survey will be used to build a City-Wide Hub for Educator Wellbeing.

This survey will take 10 minutes or less to complete. Your responses to these questions are voluntary and confidential. Your responses will only be viewed by the WISE Center evaluation team. Personal identifying information will not be shared, and it will be separated from your survey responses before data is examined.

You will be compensated for your time for completing this survey. You will receive a $10 Tango gift card within 2 weeks of completing this survey. Tango provides access to over 1,500 gift card options as well as prepaid debit cards.

If you are interested in completing the survey, please click here.

•  Student Cell Phone and Electronic Device Policy | dcps 

• June 17th from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm- W5EEC and W6PSPO time for a budget conversation featuring key voices in education and policy, join here

  https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAudOqsqDorHdOqNZKiWVfvLL0TPp_az3Wp.

• LEA Look Forward for June 13, 2025: Summer Literacy Leader Training, SY25-26 Calendar Guidance and More

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📣 WTU LEAVE BANK ENROLLMENT IS OPEN!

June 1 – August 31

The Washington Teachers’ Union is proud to offer two collective leave banks that support our educators when they need it most:

🩺 Sick Leave Bank
👶🏽 Parental Leave Bank

💡 Why Join a Leave Bank?

Life happens — whether it’s an unexpected illness or the arrival of a new child, having access to additional paid leave can make all the difference. By contributing just one day of your own sick leave, you help protect yourself and your fellow union members from going unpaid during critical times.

Benefits of joining:

• Access to additional paid leave when your leave runs out
• Coverage for emergencies
• Support a system rooted in solidarity and collective care

✅ Who Can Enroll?

All WTU members are eligible to enroll during the open period. Enrollment is voluntary, but only those who contribute are eligible to apply for days from the bank.

🗓️ Enrollment Period:

June 1 through August 31

Don’t wait — Enroll today. Don’t delay!

Find Leave Banks FAQs HERE

Questions? Contact WTU at 202-517-1477 or email [email protected]

Together, we’ve got each other covered.

We are Better Together.

No longer interested in using the LEAVE BANK?

🌂CLICK HERE TO  OPT -OUT. 

(Your leave will automatically roll over next year if you do not opt out during the enrollment period)

Miss the AM Brew? Catch up here

Follow us on: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

Greetings WTU Members,

In the June 1st Morning Brew, the Elections Committee informed members of the stoppage to new ballots being sent out because of an allegation that an ineligible individual received a ballot. Since this missive, the Elections Committee has worked diligently with Membership Coordinator Donita Jackson to ensure the membership database and in essence, the elections, was not compromised.

All members who reached out to Yes Elections or Ms. Jackson to inquire about a ballot have either received a ballot or an appropriate next step. We have found that members who had not received a ballot fall into three main categories...

1. They are not a Full Dues paying member of the WTU and therefore ineligible to vote. 

2. The member did not provide a personal email address to the WTU and therefore no email was on file with the WTU. 

3. The member received a ballot however the ballot was sitting in inbox or spam, and the eligible voter used improper keywords to search for their ballot. 

In full transparency, there were some members whose personal email addresses were incorrect, totally different or had extra or missing letter(s)/character(s). These errors are common human mistakes made by the voter or the membership department and are conceivable in any election process. These errors are being addressed and the WTU Elections Committee continues to work to ensure every member an opportunity to vote in this election should they desire. 

As previously shared, the 2025 Elections will close at 5pm on Monday June 16, 2025. 

Encourage your colleagues to vote. Every vote matters!

As always, please reach out to the WTU Elections Committee at [email protected] if you have any questions or concerns.

In Unity, 

The WTU Elections Committee. 

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Dear WTU Family,

As we reflect on the vibrant celebrations of WorldPride 2025, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for our union's remarkable participation. Your enthusiasm and dedication made this year's events truly unforgettable.

From the rooftop kickoff at Hotel Zena to the creative energy at our Truck Decorating Party, culminating in our spirited march under the Tiaras & Tails theme inspired by Julian Is a Mermaid, your involvement showcased the heart and soul of our community. At the WorldPride Festival, our booth became a beacon of inclusivity and literacy, where we distributed 1,500 free books to children—doubling our efforts from last year.

This significant achievement was made possible by a generous $10,000 grant from the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). Their unwavering support empowers us to expand our outreach and reinforce our commitment to education and inclusivity. 

This year's participation was indeed bigger and better than ever, reflecting our collective commitment to fostering a more inclusive and educated community.

As we continue to build on this momentum, I want to remind you that WTU elections are underway, and voting concludes one week from today. Your voice is vital in shaping the future of our union. If you haven't already, please take a moment to cast your vote and encourage your colleagues to do the same.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment and for making WorldPride 2025 a resounding success.

In solidarity,
Jacqueline Pogue Lyons
President, Washington Teachers’ Union

Medstar Georgetown WISE Center is conducting a survey to better understand Educator Wellbeing as well as access to services and supports in DC. The information gathered through this survey will be used to build a City-Wide Hub for Educator Wellbeing.

This survey will take 10 minutes or less to complete. Your responses to these questions are voluntary and confidential. Your responses will only be viewed by the WISE Center evaluation team. Personal identifying information will not be shared, and it will be separated from your survey responses before data is examined.

You will be compensated for your time for completing this survey. You will receive a $10 Tango gift card within 2 weeks of completing this survey. Tango provides access to over 1,500 gift card options as well as prepaid debit cards.

If you are interested in completing the survey, please click here.

• June 10th @ 4:30 pm- WTU Membership Meeting- Register by clicking here.
• June 14 @1:05 pm - Labor Night with the Nats

•  Student Cell Phone and Electronic Device Policy | dcps 

• LEA Look Forward for June 6, 2025: OSSE Parent Portal, FY26 ESEA Title Preliminary Allocations Update and More

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Please be aware that Labor Night at the Nats on Saturday, June 14, is now at 1:05 p.m. instead of 4:05 p.m. If you are interested in attending, please email WTU Organizer at [email protected] with your name, personal email address, and phone number.

Please note that it is one ticket per WTUmember, you must pick up the physical tickets at the WTU Office, and those waitlisted will be called for unclaimed tickets on Thursday, June 12th.

Medstar Georgetown WISE Center is conducting a survey to better understand Educator Wellbeing as well as access to services and supports in DC. The information gathered through this survey will be used to build a City-Wide Hub for Educator Wellbeing.

This survey will take 10 minutes or less to complete. Your responses to these questions are voluntary and confidential. Your responses will only be viewed by the WISE Center evaluation team. Personal identifying information will not be shared, and it will be separated from your survey responses before data is examined.

You will be compensated for your time for completing this survey. You will receive a $10 Tango gift card within 2 weeks of completing this survey. Tango provides access to over 1,500 gift card options as well as prepaid debit cards.

If you are interested in completing the survey, please click here.

Miss the AM Brew? Catch up here

Follow us on: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube