The Alberta Teachers’ Association

Question: Are members required to attend their local ­association’s general meetings?

Answer: Although attendance at local association general meetings is not compulsory, it is highly recommended. The Alberta Teachers’ Association is a democratic, member-driven organization that requires the full participation of all its members to function effectively. In fact, the Code of Professional ­Conduct stipulates that “service to the ­Association is a professional responsibility.”

Your participation at all Association-sponsored activities is valued and appreciated, but it is particularly important at general meetings of your local where a minimum quorum of participants is required to make any decisions. Without quorum, the important business of the local—approving budgets, conducting elections, drafting policy and receiving reports—cannot be conducted properly.

General meetings provide an excellent forum for discussing the issues and concerns of members in a professional and supportive environment. In addition, bargaining unit general meetings (BUGMs) are often held in conjunction with local general meetings. BUGMs are crucial to the bargaining process as they set initial bargaining positions, provide updates and are a venue for members to vote on proposed agreements. (Information about the role of BUGMs was featured in the January 17, 2012, ATA News, page 6.)

General meetings also provide an opportunity for teachers from across the school jurisdiction to reconnect with friends and ­colleagues.

I encourage all members to exercise their democratic right to participate fully in all local general meetings.