AFPENC F.A.Q.S
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about AFPENC and AFT Affiliation
View the full list of F.A.Q.S and answers
General Questions
What does it mean for PENC to affiliate with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT)?
Affiliation means that PENC will join forces with AFT to gain access to additional resources, professional development opportunities, advocacy support, and member benefits while maintaining our focus on North Carolina educators.
What does it mean for PENC to affiliate with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT)?
Why is PENC affiliating with AFT?
The affiliation strengthens our ability to advocate for educators and students by connecting us to a powerful national network of professionals who share our values of fairness, professional growth, and educational excellence.
Why is PENC affiliating with AFT?
Will PENC still exist as its own organization?
Yes. PENC will continue to operate as a state-level organization with its own leadership and governance structure, now under the name AFPENC (American Federation of Teachers – Professional Educators of North Carolina).
Will PENC still exist as its own organization?
Membership and Dues
Will my dues increase because of this affiliation?
Dues structures will be reviewed carefully to ensure affordability for members. If any change occurs, members will be notified in advance, along with a clear explanation of how those funds will support enhanced benefits and advocacy.
Will my dues increase because of this affiliation?
Will my current membership automatically transfer to AFPENC?
Yes. All active PENC members will automatically transition into AFPENC membership without needing to reapply.
Will my current membership automatically transfer to AFPENC?
How will this change affect membership benefits?
Members will retain their current PENC benefits and gain new AFT benefits, such as national discounts, legal and advocacy support, professional development, and access to national educator networks.
How will this change affect membership benefits?
Representation and Advocacy
Does this mean PENC members will now be part of a labor union?
Yes. AFPENC will be affiliated with AFT, which is a union. However, North Carolina remains a “right-to-work” state, meaning membership and dues are voluntary, and no one is required to join or pay dues as a condition of employment.
Does this mean PENC members will now be part of a labor union?
Will AFPENC engage in collective bargaining?
Currently, North Carolina law prohibits collective bargaining for public employees. While this affiliation will not change state law, it will strengthen our advocacy voice at both the state and national levels.
Will AFPENC engage in collective bargaining?
How will this partnership enhance advocacy for North Carolina educators?
AFT affiliation gives AFPENC access to national policy expertise, legislative tools, and communication strategies that will help us more effectively advocate for fair pay, improved working conditions, and better resources for classrooms.
How will this partnership enhance advocacy for North Carolina educators?
Governance and Leadership
Will the current PENC Board and leadership remain in place?
Yes. The current Board and leadership structure will remain intact during the transition, ensuring continuity and member representation. Any future changes will be guided by our bylaws and membership input.
Will the current PENC Board and leadership remain in place?
Will members still have a voice in decisions?
Absolutely. Member voice remains a cornerstone of AFPENC. Members will continue to vote, serve on committees, and help shape the direction of the organization.
Will members still have a voice in decisions?
Professional Development and Support
What professional benefits come with AFT affiliation?
Members will have access to AFT’s national professional learning network, leadership academies, classroom resources, and national conferences — in addition to AFPENC’s state-level support.
What professional benefits come with AFT affiliation?
Will AFPENC offer more training and networking opportunities?
Yes. With AFT’s resources, AFPENC can expand training, mentoring, and leadership opportunities for teachers, administrators, and aspiring educators across North Carolina.
Will AFPENC offer more training and networking opportunities?
Other Practical Questions
When will the affiliation officially take effect?
The affiliation will take effect once all formal agreements are finalized and approved by both organizations. Members will be informed of the exact timeline as soon as it’s confirmed.
When will the affiliation officially take effect?
Will my local district or school be impacted?
No immediate changes will occur at the local level. However, members may see more opportunities for local organizing, training, and policy engagement supported by AFPENC and AFT.
Will my local district or school be impacted?
How can I learn more or get involved during the transition?
Members are encouraged to attend upcoming information sessions, review materials on the AFPENC website, and contact the PENC office with any questions or concerns.