Dear Editor,
The Virginia Education Association (VEA) owes an immediate and transparent explanation to its largest local, the Prince William Education Association (PWEA). For over three years, PWEA has led all VEA locals in record-breaking member recruitment. It operates with a nearly million-dollar annual budget, maintains $500,000 in savings, owns its office, and carries no debt—unlike the VEA, which rents its headquarters outside Richmond.
Despite this strong track record, nine VEA executive board members recently voted—without prior notice or consultation—to place PWEA under emergency trusteeship. This action disregards the principles of democracy and transparency that should guide any organization representing educators. Many members view this move as a blatant power and money grab orchestrated by VEA President Carol Bauer.
The urgency of this situation is compounded by the VEA’s refusal to engage in dialogue or allow cross-examination during the upcoming hearing on August 23, where the VEA Board will vote to either uphold or end the trusteeship. What is the VEA hiding by avoiding questions from the very members it claims to represent?
PWEA’s sudden dissolution raises serious concerns about governance and motives within the VEA. We demand the reinstatement of PWEA’s duly elected board and full transparency in this matter. Educators deserve better—they deserve their union back.
For years, PWEA has been a model of recruitment and financial stewardship. Yet the VEA has responded by instituting a trusteeship, blocking member access to their own office, and silencing dissent. These actions are not only undemocratic—they undermine the very foundation of educational advocacy.
We call on Carol Bauer to address these grievances, restore PWEA’s elected leadership, and uphold the democratic values our union stands for. Our educators deserve transparency, not secret dealings.
Susan Mitchell
Manassas, VA
Editor’s Note: After a two-year pause, Potomac Local News is once again accepting letters to the editor. We invite submissions on matters of local interest and public concern. Email your letter to [email protected].
