Frequently asked questions

Your dues support advocacy, representation, professional development, and member services at the local (EAN), state (VEA), and national (NEA) levels.

While currently Virginia is not a collective bargaining state, local governing bodies and school divisions can vote to allow collective bargaining. For example, in July 2026 the city council of Newport News passed a collective bargaining ordinance, and other school divisions have established collective bargaining (see " What is collective bargaining?" The strength of our voice corresponds to size of our membership; join EAN to bring collective bargaining to Norfolk!

If a workplace conflict occurs between two EAN members like the scenario described above there will be 2 different Uniservs representing different parties. 

Reach out to your building leaders through this contact form!

Many improvements benefit all employees, but they happen because members invest in making them possible. Your membership helps ensure EAN has the resources and strength to keep advocating for everyone, especially for higher take-home pay. Imagine how much more you will benefit if you join EAN? 

That’s okay! Every member participates differently. Some volunteer, while others simply support EAN through their membership. Every member strengthens our collective voice, and ultimately toward the goal of collective bargaining

Personal legal plans are valuable; however membership dues with EAN gives access to the support and legal resources of VIrginia Education Assocation and National Education Association.

EAN is the only union representing all eligible Norfolk Public Schools employees, including transportation employees and eligible administrators. Every voice matters! Ready to make a switch? Start here

No, but we encourage you to attend building meetings held by your EAN building representatives, join us at our various social events. Your level of participation is entirely up to you; but your voice is part of what make EAN powerful.