Welcome back to The Union Update — your weekly eNewsletter designed to keep you informed, empowered, and connected.
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The Sick Leave Bank and Parental Leave Bank are open for donations through September 30. These banks provide essential support to members facing medical emergencies or welcoming new family members. We still need more members to donate to keep these resources strong.
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Join us for our first Membership Meeting of the school year on Tuesday, September 9 at 4:30 PM. We need 150+ WTU members for this critical Membership Meeting where the WTU will give critical updates on actions we are taking to support you in your schools, the WTU Budget, and important Membership votes on Proposed Bylaws Amendments, campaign launches to support our International Educators and the Leave Banks and more. Note: only verified members will be admitted and only one person can sign on per registration link, so please register as far in advance as possible and do not forward your registration link, to avoid delays day of.
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Bylaws Town Hall Meeting Recap
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In the Town Hall on the Proposed Amendments to the WTU Bylaws a few key questions were raised:
1) Why now?
The current WTU Executive Board got elected on a promise of structural change to provide greater transparency, democracy, checks and balances and member voice on key decisions that historically have been made by a select few behind closed doors. We believe these changes are the first step to ensuring that we live up to that promise.
2) What is the exact meaning of the language?
We recognize that no language can be perfect, but we believe this language, that is all based on language from the AFT National Union and other AFT locals, is well vetted and widely accepted.
3) What can we do to make sure this is democratically supported?
The existing WTU Bylaws require that the proposed amendments be voted on in a Membership Meeting whose quorum is a minimum of 150 people. We hope far more sign up to attend and vote for what they think is in the best interest of the WTU.
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WTU Membership Meeting (Zoom) - 09/09/25
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Back To School Block Party (Jackson-Reed HS) - 09/13/25
- Members can sign up to volunteer here.
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DC State Board of Education (SBOE) Public Meeting - 09/17/25
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Save The Date: Union Leadership Institute
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The WTU’s next Union Leadership Institute (ULI) is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, September 27th via Zoom. These sessions help members build leadership skills and gain the knowledge needed to represent their colleagues. All WTU members are welcome, not just elected leaders.
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WTU wants to hear directly from you about the professional development opportunities that matter most. Whether you're interested in mindfulness, instructional tech, or navigating DCPS systems, your input helps us tailor workshops to your needs. Take a few minutes to complete the survey and make your voice count this fall!
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Protect your time, resources and benefits
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Protect Your Morning Block
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A memo was sent to WTU Building Reps outlining our position on morning block usage during short weeks, emphasizing that principals should not mandate its use beyond voluntary participation. The issue is currently in arbitration and members are encouraged to act collectively and, at minimum, file for administrative premium while awaiting a decision.
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Did not get the alert email for your Amazon Gift Card?
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Go to QuickBase Application (If link does not work, find original email from DCPS), submit your employee ID, and you should get the code to redeem your $250 and add to your personal Amazon account. If that does not work, contact DCPS directly at: [email protected]
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Thank you for your continued dedication to our students, our schools, and our union. Let’s stay informed and united — because together, we’re stronger.
In solidarity,
Washington Teachers’ Union
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WTU Members and staff at the Solidarity Season Rally and March on August 28, 2025.
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Follow Us On Soical Media
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