Your Rights in Illinois

Opt Out Rights

You have the right to opt out entirely in Illinois.

Association Options

You have association options in Illinois. 
Learn more.

Limitations

There may be opt-out limitations. Get started below.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about opting out are significant in Illinois. Learn more.

Exercise Your Rights

Explore the opt-out process for your district:

Send to Yourself

Illinois RESOURCES

Teachers and education staff in Illinois are encouraged to visit Illinois Policy Institute's "Leave My Union" Website for detailed opt-out information and instructions.

Illinois
RESOURCES

Teachers and education staff in Illinois are encouraged to visit Illinois Policy Institute's "Leave My Union" Website for detailed opt-out information and instructions.

Our Stories

Read More
Andrea, special education teacher
“I’m not anti-union. I’m for choice.”   After an unfulfilling career in corporate America, Andrea wanted to give back to ...
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Damon, social studies teacher
“Exercise all of your rights, don’t let anyone place limits.”   Damon, a pastor in New Jersey, was inspired to ...
Read More
Kati, student success coach
“I felt really empowered that it was my decision.”   Kati fell in love with teaching after she had the ...
Read More
Michael, English and social sciences teacher
“I want to choose who I associate with and I want to make that decision willingly.”   Born and raised ...

Be Informed and Be Empowered

Addressing common misconceptions about opting out of union membership.

Will I lose my health insurance?

Will I lose my health insurance?

No, you won't. Union membership has absolutely no impact on your health insurance or other compensation from the district.

Isn't it selfish to leave the union?

Isn't it selfish to leave the union?

Exercising your right as a professional is never selfish.

An association cannot serve you well if you are told you can never leave.

Will I be mistreated by colleagues?

Will I be mistreated by colleagues?

This is a common fear, but most teachers respect your right to join the association of your choice.

A recent survey revealed that 90% of teachers respect the right of their colleagues to join the association of their choice.

What about liability insurance?

What about liability insurance?

Union liability insurance is provided exclusively to members.
There are numerous (often less expensive) alternatives to the union for quality liability insurance.

Will I lose my seniority?

Will I lose my seniority?

No, you won't. Union membership has absolutely no impact on your seniority.

Am I out of the contract if I leave the union?

Am I out of the contract if I leave the union?

Your individual membership has absolutely no impact on the existence or terms of the negotiated agreement for you or any colleagues. You are still a part of the contract if you leave the union.

Will I lose tenure?

Will I lose tenure?

No, you won't. Union membership has absolutely no impact on your tenure.

Who will protect my employment rights?

Who will protect my employment rights?

School employees are protected by the contract and state & federal law, but do often need additional support. Your due process rights can be protected by less expensive alternative professional associations.

Illinois Education News

NEWS | Palatine school worker sues union, saying he’s forced to pay dues despite Supreme Court ruling that bars practice

 A northwest suburban school employee is suing his labor union, saying he’s being blocked from opting out of membership despite ...
READ MORE

NEWS | 'We're Bringing Education Back': Takeaways From The Election

 Hello! We know there’s a lot of news out there, but we’re bringing you an education-centric take on the midterms, ...
READ MORE

NEWS | Two months after ruling, unions still assessing impact of Janus case

 It’s been two months since the Supreme Court handed Gov. Bruce Rauner a huge victory in a landmark case that ...
READ MORE

Need Help?

If you are having difficulty experiencing your rights outlined above, email Teacher Freedom. We want to help.

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Top Five Reasons Educators Opt Out of Union Membership
  1. I'm so tired of the nonstop politics and negativity. 
  2. Unions are too focused on adults at the expense of kids. 
  3. It is just too expensive! 
  4. I don’t want my money going to the union’s national political agenda. Focus on education issues, not national politics. 
  5. I found a better association that provides what I need and it costs less by not funding candidates and political parties.
Top Five Reasons Educators Join Alternative Associations
  1. I need quality liability insurance. 
  2. I want support protecting my job. Employment rights coverage will be there for me. 
  3. This professional association shares my values and philosophy. 
  4. No partisan politics, no campaigns or elections—focused on kids and helping teachers. 
  5. Lower price. Much lower price.