Teachers, tired of the union’s politics? Get your liability coverage elsewhere.

If teacher union membership is no longer the right decision for Minnesota educators, and they would rather walk away with a little more money in their pockets and the same dedication to students and families, there are excellent liability insurance options available for those who want protection against allegations that could threaten their career.

Belonging to a union is not the only way to receive liability insurance and job protection benefits. For teachers who have already submitted their opt-out letter this month, or for those who are doing so this week before the Sept. 30 deadline, make sure to check out the three national professional educator associations below (listed alphabetically) that offer liability coverage, legal counsel, professional development opportunities and other resources without the politics.

Association of American Educators

AAE provides professional benefits and services to educators, including liability insurance, scholarships and grants, and professional resources.

AAE members receive $2 million in educator liability insurance as well as legal protection, employment rights coverage, scholarship & classroom grants, professional resources, to name a few.

Dental, life, disability, and auto insurance plans are also available at a discounted price through AAE. Search for your local options here.

Membership costs $19.50 a month ($234 annually). Student teachers may join at a reduced rate of $25 annually.

Visit www.aaeteachers.org for more information.

Christian Educators

Christian Educators is a “professional association of educators — supporting, connecting, and protecting Christians working in our schools.”

Members receive $2 million in professional liability insurance, job action protection benefits, legal consult on personnel issues, legal consult on religious issues, tuition discounts, to name a few.

Life, disability, dental, and auto and home insurance plans are also available.

Annual membership is $259 for full-time employees (teachers/administrators/support personnel/other), $139 for part-time or substitute employee (teachers/administrators/support personnel/other) or $399 for husband/wife education employees (teachers/administrators/support personnel/other).

Visit www.christianeducators.org for more information.

Teacher Freedom Alliance

The Teacher Freedom Alliance is a “community dedicated to empowering educators who are committed to developing the next generation of free, moral, and upright American citizens.”

Joining is free and open to all educators, including public-school teachers, paraprofessionals, administrators, and school board members who share the organization’s vision.

Members who are full-time educators and student teachers receive $2 million in professional liability coverage, job action protection, legal defense for false claims, and coverage beyond the classroom to cover activities like tutoring, after-school programs, and professional development instruction.

Members also receive access to professional development credit hours and alternate curricula and pedagogies.

Visit www.teacherfreedomalliance.com for more information.