Who are we?

Over the course of our 143-year history, MSTA has become known as the state’s leading voice for public education. Whether we’re lobbying for school funding in Annapolis, fighting for civil rights, or making sure every student receives the attention they need and every educator the respect they deserve, our Association has been the most successful and powerful force for progress in Maryland.

Now, as the Maryland State Education Association (MSEA), we’ve taken our mission to the next level. Our new name recognizes the critical role that all educators and school employees play in providing great public schools for every child.

The simple, symbolic open book above the “e” in our bright logo and its seven pages reflect the contributions that each of seven membership groups—teachers, ESP, administrators, certificated specialists, higher education faculty, student educators and retired members—make towards creating a high-quality public education system from pre-K through college.

Teachers

Research shows that the quality of the classroom teacher is one of the most critical components for student success. MSEA offers high-quality programs and trainings and advocates for the classroom and school resources you need to meet the constantly changing demands of your job.

Education Support Professionals

From instructional assistants to cafeteria workers to custodians, bus drivers, secretaries and more, MSEA has a proven track record of helping you win decent wages, better working conditions and more respect for the important role you play every day at your school or worksite.

Administrators

Effective leadership is fundamental to providing a great public school for every student. MSEA provides professional development targeted to your needs as a school leader, and works through local affiliates to obtain compensation commensurate with your skills and responsibilities.

Certificated Specialists

Educating children requires collaboration among a wide range of highly skilled professionals, including reading and math specialists, school counselors, audiologists, speech-language pathologists, occupational and physical therapists and many more. MSEA is increasingly focused on specialists’ specific needs and concerns, such as certification status, salaries and the tools you need to do your job.

Higher Education Faculty

MSEA and our parent affiliate, the National Education Association (NEA), are also working on issues of concern to educators at the university and community college level. Higher education members can be found across the state, from Hagerstown Community College in the west to Salisbury University in the east.

Student Educators

The MSEA Student Education Association helps prepare aspiring educators for a successful career in public education and provides networking opportunities with experienced education professionals. As a student member of MSEA and NEA, you’ll have the power of the largest education association behind you to kick off your exciting and challenging journey.

Retired Members

MSEA continually draws on the valuable experience of our most veteran members. By participating in state and national conferences, mentoring college students and volunteering for our grassroots campaigns, you can stay connected and involved. The Association also works hard to protect Social Security and Medicare, improve pension and retiree health benefits, and address other issues of vital importance to retirees.