CEA is the largest union of educators in the state with more than 38,000 K-12 teachers, higher ed faculty, and education support professionals, as well as students preparing to become teachers, and retired educators.

The Colorado Education Association (CEA) is the largest union of educators in the state with more than 35,000 K-12 teachers and education support professionals, higher education faculty and support professionals, students preparing to become teachers, and retired educators. Association membership is open only to public education employees.

Founded in 1875 by a handful of educators that came together, voted, and formed the first union for public education workers in CO. For over 140+ years their numbers have grown considerably, their impact in shaping public education has deepened, and they are stronger than ever before.

Today, CEA has a dedicated team of 100 staff who work with their members everyday to fight for the schools their students deserve. They promote quality public education and advocate for the professional interests of public education employees. CEA has led statewide advocacy efforts in recent years to restore adequate funding to Colorado public schools and to emphasize time for learning and teaching in the classroom above excessive standardized testing.

CEA is a state affiliate of the National Education Association (NEA), America’s oldest and largest organization dedicated to advancing the cause of public education. Founded in 1857, NEA proudly claims affiliates in all states with more than three million members who work at every level of education, from pre-schools to universities.