Frequently Asked Questions
*Answers partially from the Student Michigan Education Association website of the MEA and the Student Michigan Education Association flier*

What is SMEA?
SMEA is the Student Michigan Education Association.  SMEA is a preprofessional organization for those preparing to become teachers.  It is an affiliate organization of the National Education Association Student Program (NEA-SP) - the nation's largest and most influential student organization.
SMEA at Central is open to all future educators, and helps them prepare for the teaching profession by supplementing their formal education with information about such things as conferences, salaries, and curriculum requirements. 
More information can be found at the MEA website.

How much does it cost to belong and what do I get for my money?
There are yearly dues which are currently $40.  That money gives you membership to MEA/NEA as well as membership to our local chapter at Central.
As an active member of SMEA you will:
 *receive professional and student publications
*have access to MEA's and NEA's instructional and professional resources through conferences and workdays designed for future educators
*have access to accurate and updated information about the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification and other certification requirements
*are provided coverage of $1,000,000 in liability insurance for education-employment-related incidents
*have access to professional networking to help you through your first years of teaching
*receive member discounts on purchases
*are eligible for a $20 credit for each year that you were a registered member of SMEA (maximum $80) to be applied to your initial NEA professional membership dues
For our local chapter here at CMU, dues includes speakers, conference information, social events, and volunteer opportunities.
A Message from Lu Battaglieri, President of MEA.

When and where are meetings?
Check back in the fall for more information!

What are "checks" and how many do I need to be an active member?
In addition to paying dues, you must receive "checks" in order to be an active member.  A check is equivalent to attending an event or completing a task under the appropriate category.  Each semester you need three meeting checks, two fundraising checks, one social check, one community service check, one committee check, and two general checks.  General checks are for additional accomplishments in any area.  Each year you need to pay dues and attend a professional development opportunity, either a conference at Central Michigan University, or show proof of attending another conference.

Who can I contact if I have questions?
You can contact your CMU chapter of SMEA at smeacmu@cmich.edu or any of the e-board by accessing this website: http://www.iammea.org/cmu_smea/eboard.html.





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