THE MEMBERS FIRST PLAN

 Phase One restores the structure, integrity, and transparency the association must have in order to function. We will re seat all required committees and return to bylaws based governance so decision making is accountable and consistent. The bylaws will be updated so they reflect current policies, real practices, and the direction the organization is moving.

There will be no more secret committees. Every committee, every working group, and every board will be published so members always know who is doing the work of the association and how to get involved. This transparency strengthens trust, reduces confusion, prevents conflicts of interest, and ensures that decisions are made in the open.

Finances will be fully transparent with clear monthly reports and documentation for every expenditure. Members will have access to simple and readable financial summaries so they always understand how dues are being used. Committees will publish their work on a public dashboard so members can see what is happening and how to participate.

Building representatives will be supported through formal training, mentorship opportunities, and the tools they need to serve their colleagues effectively.

This phase strengthens the organization by restoring order, oversight, and clarity. It strengthens members by rebuilding trust and ensuring the association operates with integrity and purpose.

Phase Two brings members back into the center of the association. We will visit job sites consistently throughout the year and hold structured conversations so leadership always understands what is happening on the ground.

We will revisit how building representatives are elected and selected at each site. A special committee will review these processes to ensure every job site has a real say in who their representative is. We will actively recruit new representatives, provide high quality training, and develop future leaders from within the membership. New representatives will be paired with experienced mentors so they always feel supported.

To ensure no group is left out, we will establish working groups for the many types of classroom teachers and educational support staff across the county along with all the roles in between. These groups will give every category of employee a direct voice in the association. They will provide real time feedback and help leadership understand what is happening in the schools each day so issues are identified early and addressed quickly.

Communication will improve. Members will receive regular updates, clear information before decisions are made, an anonymous feedback portal, and a yearly State of the Association address. We will publish predictable office hours so members always know when and where to find us for questions, concerns, or support.

We will also represent our members in Annapolis, speaking with lawmakers about working conditions, resources, and the needs of educators and support professionals. When appropriate, we will participate in labor management problem solving groups to address issues such as workload, safety, and staffing.

This phase strengthens the organization by making it responsive, informed, and member driven. It strengthens members by ensuring they are included, supported, and well represented.