My name is Carol Bauer, a fourth grade teacher from York County, and I am excited to run for re-election as President of the Virginia Education Association. Together and united, we have positioned VEA into a strong and formidable Union.

We have built real momentum around strengthening union solidarity and ensuring that every educator’s voice is heard across the Commonwealth.  It has taken both collaboration and commitment and I am proud of the work we have done.  During my term, we have advanced union rights, supported locals as they organize and negotiate, and stood shoulder to shoulder defending public education.

In March we won a historic win with Collective Action across Virginia.  I proud to say VEA led the way advocating for all our members’ bargaining rights with the passage of the New Collective Bargaining bill. This law will improve the lives of all education employees, ESPs and certified employees alike.  This did not just happen, I was honored to testify and lobby with members of the General Assembly, at School Board meetings, and with coalition partners across the Commonwealth. And we did it VEA!  Pat yourselves on the back for your advocacy and rub your hands together as we prepare for the future.  

We must continue the progress and boldly honor our shared values of equity and justice—ensuring that every student, every educator, and every community has fair access to opportunity, the support they need to succeed, and the respect they deserve, regardless of background, identity, or circumstance—and I am privileged to stand with you in this work.

With 30 years of proven union leadership and education experience, I bring a clear understanding what it takes to protect member rights, advocate for students and to move our union forward.  I don’t hesitate to bring members together and unite them ensuring that every educator’s voice is heard across the Commonwealth.  

There is still important work ahead. Together—ESPs and licensed staff—we will continue to grow our power, expand collective bargaining, and protect the promise of public education in every community. I would be honored to continue serving as your VEA President.

In Solidarity,
Carol Bauer