What sets KEYTA apart?
Our definition of professionalism
KEYTA believes that our members should conduct themselves both in and out
of the classroom in a manner that brings honor to the profession.
Our philosophy of inclusiveness
KEYTA believes that too many divisions exist among teachers today. Any
local bargaining unit formed with the assistance of KEYTA will allow both KEYTA
and non-KEYTA members to vote on any contract proposal.
Our freedom of association
KEYTA believes that educators should be free from all forms of compulsory
memberships and endorsements. To force a man or woman to furnish contributions for
the propagation of opinions he or she opposes is, as Thomas Jefferson declared,
"tyrannical".
Our openness to reform
KEYTA's active members receive timely publications that strive to present
divergent views on educational issues.
Our accuracy in representation
KEYTA believes that the best way to let others know who we are is by surveying
our members and reporting the results. We believe that it is our duty to speak for
our members rather than in place of them.
Our dues and benefits
KEYTA is committed to improving and expanding only those services and benefits
wanted by our members, which allows us to maintain reasonable dues. We do not contribute
any portion of our members' dues to political parties or candidates.
Our emphasis on cooperation
KEYTA believes that, although a strike may be necessary in the rarest of
instances, in most cases the damage caused by striking produces irreparable harm
to the communities involved, and therefore should be circumvented. Pennsylvania
should no longer lead the nation in teacher strikes. Unfortunately, over the past
decade, we have.