Membership
Membership is the Foundation
SDEA members have a voice in the decision making of our Association. This includes voting on a new contract, and electing officers and other governance representatives. Member input has helped new unit members adjust to the profession, to conditions in the District and to do outreach in the community for support of our schools. Our union is currently working on meaningful and effective educational reform. Teachers and other credentialed professionals are represented on District committees that affect our professional lives. These and many more activities are carried on by the San Diego Education Association. The involvement of our more than 6,500 members is what makes us strong!
Now that the Supreme Court ruled against public sector unions like ours in the anti-union Janus case, it is more important than ever that the members of SDEA understand why joining and remaining an active member of SDEA is so important.
On this page you can find resources, links, videos, and member testimonials that will help you understand the threat that the loss of fair share poses, along with the information and resources that will help us stay strong in a post fair share world.
Videos
The Big Picture Video: Strengthen Unions
Resources
Everyone a member in ’96 and still strong today!
SDEA members receive the following benefits, which are not available to non-members:
- Ability to shape and mold the Association through active participation
- Ability to influence the direction of the Association with input and ideas
- Voting rights to elect leaders, set policy, and ratify contracts
- Access to trainings, workshops, and seminars
- $1 million professional liability insurance
- Legal services on both professional and private matters
- Life insurance
- Financial planning
- Discounted car/life/home insurance
- Salary protection
- Leisure/travel at reduced rates
- Scholarships
- Low interest credit cards
- Disaster Relief contribution (FACT)
To become a member of SDEA, click here!
News
November 6, 2026
Joint Statement: Children belong with their families, not in federal custody
Our demands are clear. And they are not negotiable when it comes to the safety and humanity of children. As educators, we are horrified to hear that one of our…
November 5, 2026
Stand with workers – Boycott Starbucks!
At this week's Rep Council, SDEA member representatives from across our union heard from local union baristas about their fight and voted unanimously to…
November 2, 2026
Protecting Shared Decision-Making in TK-12 Technology Use
SDEA supports purposeful, developmentally appropriate technology use that strengthens learning, relationships, and student wellness. But Districtwide…
November 2, 2026
September 2026 SpEd Caseload Overage Payments (Appeal by Dec 14)
For caseload overages in September 2026, penalty payments should have been paid on the October payroll. September 2026 SpEd Stipend Exhibit: Check the…
October 29, 2026
Nov 28 Book Swap
All educators, students, families, and comrades are invited! A free book swap and story time brought to you by The Black Panther Party San Diego in…
October 28, 2026
Honoring Dolores Huerta
Statement from SDEA President Monique Barrett Honoring Dolores Huerta As president of the San Diego Education Association, my heart is with Dolores Huerta’s…
October 28, 2026
EJC Coalition Endorses: YES on Prop 3!
Our community partners in the Education Justice Coalition have endorsed a YES on Prop 3! Educators & communities are standing up together to protect…
October 23, 2026
A Message from Your President
You Matter. We Matter. This Is OUR Union. By Monique Barrett, M.Ed., President, San Diego Education Association “Our strength is our willingness to stand…
October 15, 2026
Oct 29: Keep Our Communities Safe!
Our schools and communities have been impacted by a surge in immigration enforcement, and educators are organizing in response! Come connect &…