There are thousands of teachers in states with forced unionism, including Wisconsin and Ohio, who would rather not be represented by a union and do not want to pay exorbitant dues.
There's nothing fair, transparent or democratic about the current system. No teacher should be forced to pay a union to have employment, and especially not when that union takes political positions that clearly conflict with many teachers' personal views and beliefs.
Teachers who do not agree with the militant labor behavior being displayed, and who are members of a union, should reassess their membership and know that they have an option. There's nothing wrong with giving teachers a choice—unless, of course, you are a union leader.
Gary Beckner
Executive Director
Association of American Educators
Mission Viejo, Calif.
Keith Burgess-Jackson, J.D., Ph.D. 