CEA’s Early Enrollment window is officially open, and it’s a great tool for local leaders to connect with educators new to their district.
From April 1 through August 31, first-time active teachers can join CEA without paying dues until the new school year begins on September 1. It can be a chance to try out union membership: an opportunity to experience the value, support, and community that comes with being part of your local and statewide union.
For local association leaders, this is a perfect moment to reach out to mid-year hires, new educators, and anyone who hasn’t had a chance to join the union yet. Early Enrollment is a natural follow up opportunity and offers an easy, compelling message: join now, pay nothing until the fall, and start benefiting immediately. Members who enroll early can attend select CEA events, including the popular Summer Conference on August 5 and 6, receive CEA and NEA communications, and access a wide range of member benefits. (Legal assistance benefits begin with the full membership year on September 1.)
For new educators, Early Enrollment is a chance to get connected right away—to colleagues, to professional learning, and to the advocacy that supports your career—without any upfront cost. You’ll gain insight into how your union works, build relationships, and start your career with a strong support system behind you.
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to join, or the right way to ask someone else to, this is it.
Once you fill out your personal information at the link above, under “Select your membership year” choose
- 2026-2027 Membership Year – Early Enrollment
Want to learn more? Check out CEA’s new membership video and see what being part of the union is all about, and checkout the benefits of early enrollment.
