1. SO NOW WHAT? Thanks to Mary Parr Sanchez, NEA-LC
YOU’RE AN AR!
SO NOW WHAT?
Thanks to Mary Parr Sanchez, NEA-LC
Woodland Peaks
UEA NEA
YOU"RE AN AR! So Now What? (NEA-New Mexico)

2. What is an AR Anyway? AR stands for ASSOCIATION REPRESENTATIVE
The AR should be one or two members in each building that are trusted and respected by other teachers and staff.
The AR is a critical link between the organization and each member.
ARs are the most IMPORTANT people in the organization.
YOU"RE AN AR! So Now What? (NEA-New Mexico)

3. First Year AR
YOU"RE AN AR! So Now What? (NEA-New Mexico)

4. Experienced AR

5. Duties of the AR: Advise and Refer
The AR is the member’s first contact when information is needed about programs, services, rights and responsibilities. (If you don’t know the answer it’s okay. Tell the member you’ll let them know shortly, then call someone on page one of your Rep Info book)
Advocate and Resolve
In addition, the AR assists members by identifying and attempting to resolve minor difficulties before they become major.
YOU"RE AN AR! So Now What? (NEA-New Mexico)

6. Active Recruiter Anchor and Reporter
The AR actively recruits and retains members by understanding that NEA members are leaders in the teaching profession and that TOGETHER WE ARE STRONG (alone, we are isolated and powerless)
Anchor and Reporter
The AR sees that all association related information is distributed, posted or in some way made available. The AR is the go-to person in stormy weather because the AR has information and support.
YOU"RE AN AR! So Now What? (NEA-New Mexico)

7. Ambassador and Responder
The AR communicates members’ ideas/issues back to Your Local Woodland Peaks UniServ, UEA, or the NEA organization. The AR seeks resolution for member needs.
Available voice of Reason
The AR is on the frontlines. At the very least, having a 3rd person present to record and document a heated situation ensures “Due Process Rights” and helps the parties involved calm down.
YOU"RE AN AR! So Now What? (NEA-New Mexico)

8. Agreement Radar
The AR should be familiar with the Local School District Certified Personnel Handbook and District Policy Manual. To find this on the district website click on “Board” icon at the top then “Policy Manuals”.
YOU"RE AN AR! So Now What? (NEA-New Mexico)

9. Locals Personnel Handbook
Use the index to research employee rights and responsibilities. Call your Local President, Woodland Peaks Director, or other officers when you have questions.

10. Advisor and Reconciler
In the best case the AR is someone the Principal can rely on to make sure they are following due process procedures. Sometimes the Principal relies on the AR to take the pulse of the staff and report back the truth. In the best case, the AR is indispensible to the Principal as well as the staff.
Sometimes in the heat of a moment, people on both sides say and do things they may regret. Help “Common Sense” rule the day by LISTENING and remaining LEVEL HEADED.
YOU"RE AN AR! So Now What? (NEA-New Mexico)

11. Approachable and Respected
One of the most important duties of an AR is to gain respect and trust of the staff in your school. (Never betray confidences).
In addition, it is important for you to be visible and vocal, respectful, but VOCAL. Let your staff know what The Association is doing to promote education.
(You’ve got your network behind you).
YOU"RE AN AR! So Now What? (NEA-New Mexico)

12. So…, an AR is? The Association Representative who:
*Advocates and Resolves minor issues
*Active Recruiter
*Anchor and Reporter
*Ambassador and Responder
*Available voice of Reason
*Agreement Radar
*Advisor and Recruiter
*Approachable and Respected
*Aware of when to Call for Advocacy Help
YOU"RE AN AR! So Now What? (NEA-New Mexico)

13. And finally… Attend monthly AR meetings to keep in the know
Visit the Woodland Peaks, UEA, and NEA Websites
Attend socials, council meetings and gatherings to network with other members- Never underestimate the power of information
Keep in touch with local leaders
YOU"RE AN AR! So Now What? (NEA-New Mexico)

14. Thank You for your service! Let us know how we can assist you!
YOU"RE AN AR! So Now What? (NEA-New Mexico)