The East Longmeadow Education Association (ELEA) represents teachers and paraprofessionals in the East Longmeadow Public School. We negotiate our contracts, and when there is an issue, we advocate for our members.
The ELEA is affiliated with the Massachusetts Teachers Association (MTA). That means we have a close relationship. But the MTA is not in charge of the ELEA. In the 1970s, the ELEA voted to affiliate with the MTA.
Most of our union dues go to the MTA. About half of those dues provide us with contract negotiation services and legal representation as needed. The other half goes to lobbying and other political services.
The MTA is affiliated with the National Education Association (NEA).