BEST AFT is a local union with over 700 members, including K-12 educators, support staff, and retirees. We believe that education is the path to a just and democratic society. We also believe the only way to give students a quality education is through the dedicated work of empowered public educators.

Our union represents all non-administrative public school employees. As such, our union’s priorities reflect the interests of teachers, counselors, librarians, custodians, bus drivers, and all the other people who make our schools work.

We advocate on behalf of our members to our school district, school board, and local and state leaders on issues related to public education.

Funding Our Public Schools

We actively support candidates who support our public schools. We are building coalitions to move state lawmakers to action to fund public education adequately. Full funding leads to small class sizes, additional classroom resources, competitive salaries, and a bright future for our students.

Keeping Our Schools Public

We oppose any and all forms of voucher legislation that would drain dollars from our public schools to fund unaccountable charter schools or private schools. Vouchers in any shape or form are bad for Texas schoolchildren.

Affordable Health Care & a Secure Retirement For All

Our union believes everyone has a right to accessible and affordable health care, along with a dignified retirement. We are fighting for increases in the state’s contributions to health care funding to lower premiums for working families, as well as a permanent cost-of-living adjustment for retired Texas educators.