The Union Update

Hi {{ FirstName | commonize | default: 'Friend' }},

Cleveland Elementary Sets the Bar for Union Solidarity
With 100% WTU membership, Cleveland Elementary is leading by example in building a united school community. One of their standout traditions is the Wednesday morning Coffee House in the Teachers Lounge, a cozy ritual that fosters connection and camaraderie. Their commitment to togetherness is inspiring!

Langley Elementary is growing stronger, one conversation at a time!

Building Reps Mimi Poku and Jennifer Wehner reviewed the potential members list and spoke with dozens of educators between 3:00 and 4:00 PM last month, leading to several new sign-ups for the union. The photo above features some of Langley’s newest WTU members, thanks to their incredible outreach!

Claim What You Are Owed

WTU educators won big in arbitration against DCPS—securing the right to four days of protected Morning Block Time each week. For SY24-25, during short weeks following contract ratification, no morning block meetings should have been held, and if they were, you have the right to be compensated. If you were impacted, fill out the form to help the distribution of funds.

WTU Special Education VP Committee Meeting (Zoom) - 11/10/25, 4:30PM

Self-Contained Educators, We Need You! The WTU Special Education Committee is gathering input from educators who teach self-contained classes to strengthen our advocacy around oversized classrooms and lack of resources. If you teach a self-contained class, please take a few minutes to complete.

WTU Career Educators VP Meeting (Zoom) - 11/12/25, 5PM

Join the Career Educators VP Meeting to elevate your voice, share your experiences, and help build systems that work for teachers and learners alike.

WTU Junior High School VP Meeting (Zoom) - 11/12/25, 6PM

Join us for the Junior High VP Meeting to connect with fellow middle school educators, discuss shared challenges and organize for stronger support.

November Rep Assembly – Key Updates & Planning Ahead

Join us for the November Rep Assembly where we’ll review the audit, decide on the COPE endorsement timeline, and share organizing plans for November. We’ll also discuss support for international educators, winter event ideas from the Socialite Committee, and more.

Holiday Party Planning Has Begun

Holiday party planning is underway, and we want your input to make it a celebration that works for everyone! Let us know your preferences for the day of the week, time, location, and other details by filling out the quick survey below. Please complete the survey by end of day Monday, November 10, 2025 so we can start locking in plans!

• WTU Special Education VP Committee Meeting (Zoom) - 11/10/25, 4:30PM
• WTU Career Educators VP Meeting (Zoom) - 11/12/25, 5PM
• WTU Junior High School VP Meeting **New Date (Zoom) - 11/12/25, 6PM
• WTU Representative Assembly Meeting *New Time* (Zoom) - 11/13/25, 4:30PM
• DCPS Deadline For Testimony in Budget Formulation Meeting on 11/18 - 11/14/25
• WTU Senior High VP Meeting (Zoom) - 11/17/25, 4:30PM
• WTU Science Educator Committee (Zoom) - 11/18/25, 4:30 PM
• WTU Retirement Options Task Force (Zoom) - 11/18/25, 5PM
• DC State Board of Education Public Meeting - 11/19/25, 5:30PM
• WTU Committee on Political Education Meeting (COPE) (Zoom) - 12/1/25, 5:00PM
• WTU International Educators Committee Meeting (Zoom) - 12/1/25, 7PM
• WTU Socialite Committee Meeting (Zoom) - 12/2/25, 5 PM
• WTU Organizing Committee (Zoom) - 12/4/25, 5PM
• WTU Professional Development Committee (Zoom) - 12/3/25, 5PM
• WTU Executive Board Meeting (View Only) (Zoom) - 12/6/25, 9AM (10 for Members)

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

Follow Us on Social Media