Union Priorities Criticized by Veteran Educator

Michael Greer, a veteran special education teacher with 26 years of experience, has raised concerns about the priorities of major teachers unions. Greer, who was part of both the National Education Association (NEA) and the California Teachers Association (CTA), believes these unions have shifted focus from educational quality to political power.

According to Greer, the CTA holds considerable influence as the leading lobbying group in California. He expressed disappointment that unions’ priorities have shifted since his entry into public education.

“It’s all about power,” said Greer, emphasizing the political sway of the unions.

Greer noted that during his early years, union efforts centered on enhancing teaching skills through workshops and instructional training. However, he argues that the current agenda leans toward political activism and union membership training. His remarks align with several studies highlighting considerable union expenditures on political activities.

Investigations by the North American Values Institute (NAVI) found that the NEA allocated $547 million for political activities and lobbying over nine years. During the same period, the AFT reported spending $383.2 million for similar purposes. These efforts targeted Democratic political aims, allocating significant amounts to Democratic-aligned action committees and progressive organizations.

The report by Parents Defending Education further revealed that over $660 million has been funneled to political causes since 2015 when considering state and local affiliations. This spending coincides with declines in student proficiency in core subjects like math and reading.

Greer pointed out that union strategies now instruct teachers on social justice activism, straying from their foundational educational mission. He observed these changes both as a school board member and an NEA-CTA delegate, where he found focus shifting from student learning to political leverage.

However, Greer acknowledged that the CTA supports bipartisan teacher participation by funding attendance at both the Republican and Democratic state conventions. Despite this bipartisan outreach, Greer feels sidelined for his critical stance against the union’s political direction.

Fox News Digital reached out to both the NEA and CTA for comments but did not receive an immediate response. Greer’s perspective resonates with ongoing critiques of union priorities, emphasizing the need for a return to educational fundamentals.