Posted on 11/21/23
| News Source: FOX45
A Project Baltimore investigation has found Maryland’s largest teachers union spent millions of dollars on travel over the last few years.
The finding raises questions over how the Maryland State Education Association is spending its money, which typically starts as your tax dollars.
For years, many public officials have delivered the same message, saying Maryland public schools need more money.
Governor Wes Moore, in February, touted “the largest investment in public education by any governor in our state’s history.”
The Maryland State Education Association (MSEA) is the state’s largest teachers union and perhaps the most vocal proponent of more education funding.
"Provide more for our students, more career technology education, teacher salaries, support for those students living in concentrated poverty," said MSEA President Cheryl Bost in December 2019.
But Project Baltimore found, while many are saying schools don’t have enough money, the teachers' union seems to have plenty.
According to MSEA’s federal non-profit filings, the union spent $509,013 on travel expenses last year. That amount does not include “Conferences, conventions, and meetings,” which is another $35,010.
“There is no justification to spend half a million dollars a year on travel. The receipts need to be provided,” said David Williams with the Taxpayers Protection Alliance. “And this money is going to the unions. It's not ultimately getting to the kids. And the stated purpose of the union is to help the children.”