Frequently Asked Questions
What is student-centered bargaining and advocacy?
Student-centered bargaining and advocacy is a model of unionism that fuses organizing, collective bargaining, and other collective action with community engagement and social justice activism to enhance student learning and improve educator working conditions. Student-centered bargaining and advocacy does not supplant our traditional advocacy roles. Rather, it augments these roles, building a culture and implementing practices that place the needs of students at the forefront of our cause.
Who can apply for this grant?
Local affiliates are eligible for the grant as are state affiliates, which can coordinate a student-centered bargaining and advocacy project, providing targeted local associations with training, assistance, and resources necessary for the completion of the grant and successful implementation of the proposed program or activity. Affiliates that represent teachers, education support professionals, and higher education staff are encouraged to apply.
Is grant eligibility restricted to affiliates that collectively bargain or to projects directly related to a collective bargaining campaign?
No. While we are especially interested in funding proposals that seek to advance student-centered policies and practices through the bargaining process, affiliates that are willing and able to engage in student-centered practices to influence board policies that promote healthy and positive learning environments for students are also encouraged to apply.
Can a student-centered bargaining and advocacy grant be combined with other grants, such as a community organizing grant?
Yes. We encourage affiliates to consider, for example, submitting a proposal to engage parents and minority communities as part of an overall advocacy and organizing plan to meet students’ needs. This grant cannot, however, be combined with a state media grant or with a ballot measure or legislative crisis grant.
Can a student-centered bargaining and advocacy grant involve stakeholders in the use of American Rescue Plan and other Federal Funds?
Yes, we welcome proposals focused on lifting up the educator voice provisions in using ARP Funds. Proposals centered on developing strategies and campaigns that include fighting for safe and healthy schools, increased mental health support, and education equity are especially encouraged to apply.
More information
What is the range of the potential grant awards?
The grant award range is up to $50,000.
When is the deadline to apply?
The 2023-2024 grant cycle runs through the end of the fiscal year August 31, 2024. It operates on a rolling deadline with applications being accepted throughout the year or until all funds have been committed. We encourage applicants to apply early as there is no guarantee of availability of funds later in the year.
Are there examples of student-centered bargaining and advocacy programs and activities that might provide guidance to grant applicants?
Yes. Specific examples of student-centered bargaining and advocacy in practice can be found in the previous years’ grant reports (.pdf).
How is Bargaining for the Common Good related to Student-Centered Bargaining and Advocacy?
Like Student-Centered Bargaining and Advocacy, Bargaining for the Common Good is an innovative community engagement strategy that looks beyond traditional bread and butter issues. NEA affiliates and other public sector unions use it to collectively bargain and organize members and local stakeholders around a set of demands that extend beyond the classroom to embrace broader community concerns. It addresses systemic inequities, targets new revenue sources to rebuild communities and adequately fund public services, and protects quality middle class public sector jobs. A Bargaining for the Common Good campaign is an appropriate activity for a student-centered advocacy grant.
Are other resources available that might provide guidance to grant applicants?
Yes. CBMA staff is available to share resources and provide assistance to grant applicants.
