Member Benefit Programs
SMEA members have access to all kinds of activities; from discounts on programs to further your credential, to boosting your retirement, to shopping, travel, and adventures like theme parks and movies.
Further Your Credential:
1. SMEA has negotiated a 20% discount with UCSD for classes that help clear and extend your credential. Click on the photo below to go to the website to find classes and sign up.
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Further Your Credential:
2. CTA has many online courses in Professional Development that are free or low cost. These will give you units to increase your standing on the pay scale. Click on the photo below for more information.
Build Your Retirement
Did you know that CTA has a 403b Program for Educators. Fees are much lower than regular funds.
**SMEA will be hosting an informational webinar this fall 2023 but in the meantime for more information click on the photo below.
Fun Things to Do:
CTA and NEA offers loads of discounts on travel, shopping and fun things to do. Click here to look around and find something to do.
Legal Services:
Dues-paying members of SMEA are eligible for both work related and non-work related legal consultation. Non-dues-paying SMEA bargaining unit members are not entitled to extra contractual legal consultation and representation services (for matters arising out of state or federal law).
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For work related issues, such as suspensions, terminations, layoffs, seniority date issues, employment status/temporary contract issues, being subject to illegal workplace discrimination, certain credentialing/CCTC issues, allegations by SMUSD or a local or state agency or law enforcement entity of union member criminal misconduct, and several other matters covered by state and federal laws, dues-paying union members need to receive a referral from a CTA staff to receive free legal consultation and potential representation. In order to initiate this process, members should contact their Association Representatives, who will refer them to the appropriate CTA staff member to set up the legal referral. Non-dues-paying SMEA bargaining unit members have to seek their own legal counsel and representation for these matters.
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For non-work related issues, dues-paying union members are eligible to receive a free, 30-minute legal consultation from the following law firms, based on the firms’ areas of speciality:
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Hiden Rott Oertle LLP – Workers’ Compensation, Civil litigation, and Personal Injury – Members can self-refer by calling 619-296-5884, and should be prepared to provide a CTA membership number.
Herrera Law Firm – Family Law, Personal Injury, Workers’ Compensation and Civil Litigation – Members can self-refer by calling 619-546-8126, and should be prepared to provide a CTA membership number.
Law Offices of Teddy R. Mcnamara – Estate Planning, Probate Services, Wills, Trusts, Personal Injury – Members can self-refer by calling 619-528-1212, and should be prepared to provide a CTA membership number.