American Federation of Teachers

Definition

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) is a national labor union that represents teachers and other educational professionals in the United States. Founded in 1916, the AFT advocates for educational reform, improved working conditions, and equitable pay for teachers, aligning closely with the ideals of Horace Mann regarding the importance of education as a public good. The union plays a crucial role in shaping education policy and promoting the rights and welfare of educators across the nation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The AFT was founded as a response to the growing need for teachers to unite and advocate for better working conditions and educational standards.
2. Horace Mann's vision of universal public education influenced the AFT's focus on making education accessible and equitable for all students.
3. The AFT engages in collective bargaining to secure fair contracts for teachers, which often include better salaries, benefits, and job security.
4. In addition to advocating for teachers, the AFT also supports initiatives aimed at improving student learning environments and educational equity.
5. The AFT is one of the largest teacher unions in the U.S., representing over 1.7 million members across various educational sectors.

Review Questions

• How does the American Federation of Teachers embody the principles of educational reform established by Horace Mann?
  • The American Federation of Teachers embodies Horace Mann's principles by advocating for accessible and equitable education for all students. Mann believed in the importance of a well-educated citizenry as vital for democracy. The AFT works towards this goal by pushing for policies that improve education quality, advocating for adequate funding, and ensuring that all students receive a fair chance at success regardless of their background.
• What role does collective bargaining play in the efforts of the American Federation of Teachers to improve working conditions for educators?
  • Collective bargaining is a central mechanism through which the American Federation of Teachers negotiates on behalf of its members. By engaging in collective bargaining, the AFT seeks to secure contracts that include fair wages, benefits, job security, and support for professional development. This process empowers teachers to have a voice in their working conditions and fosters an environment where they can focus on teaching effectively.
• Evaluate how the initiatives led by the American Federation of Teachers have influenced contemporary educational policies in relation to Horace Mann’s vision.
  • The initiatives led by the American Federation of Teachers have significantly influenced contemporary educational policies by promoting key aspects of Horace Mann's vision of universal public education. By advocating for increased funding for public schools, equitable access to resources, and policies that support diverse learners, the AFT has worked towards creating an education system that aligns with Mann’s belief in education as a fundamental right. Their influence is seen in efforts to reform testing practices, implement inclusive curricula, and address social justice issues within schools, thus ensuring that Mann's ideals continue to resonate in modern educational discourse.

Related terms

Labor Union: An organization formed by workers to advocate for their rights, negotiate wages, and improve working conditions.

Educational Reform: Efforts aimed at improving public education through changes in policies, practices, and structures.

Collective Bargaining: The process by which unions negotiate with employers on behalf of workers regarding wages, hours, and other employment conditions.