Corey A. DeAngelis, a prominent school choice advocate, recently highlighted that Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers (AAFT), earned $601,279 last year. DeAngelis, known for his strong stance on educational reform, shared this figure on social media, reigniting discussions about union leadership compensation in contrast to average teacher salaries.
Weingarten's compensation, which has been reported to fluctuate around the half-million-dollar mark annually, significantly exceeds the median salary for teachers in the U.S., which is often cited as less than $60,000. Critics, including DeAngelis, frequently draw this comparison to underscore their arguments against the financial structures of large teachers' unions.
The AFT, representing 1.7 million members, is the second-largest teachers' union in the United States and a major force in educational policy and political lobbying. Financial disclosures indicate that the union generates substantial revenue from member dues, with millions allocated to political activities and lobbying efforts. Reports suggest that between 95% and 99% of the AFT's political donations are directed towards Democratic candidates and left-leaning organizations.
Corey A. DeAngelis, a senior fellow at the American Federation for Children and a vocal proponent of school choice, advocates for policies that allow public education funding to follow students to the schools of their parents' choosing, including private or charter schools. He argues that such mechanisms empower families and foster competition, ultimately improving educational outcomes. His advocacy often positions him in direct opposition to traditional teachers' unions, which generally resist school choice initiatives, viewing them as detrimental to public education.
The debate surrounding union executive salaries extends beyond Weingarten, with critics arguing that a significant portion of union budgets is spent on administrative costs and political advocacy rather than directly benefiting rank-and-file members. This financial structure, coupled with the unions' substantial political influence, remains a contentious point for those pushing for broader educational reforms and increased accountability within the public school system.