Educators in Colorado are continuing to support public education through voluntary contributions known as the Every Member Option (EMO), according to the Colorado Education Association (CEA). These EMO contributions are political donations made by CEA members, which are used to back legislative and electoral efforts that impact public schools and educators in the state.
The CEA reports that all EMO funds are allocated to candidates and issues within Colorado, excluding federal candidates or issues. The maximum annual contribution for a full-time licensed educator is $49, while full-time Education Support Professionals can contribute up to $24.50. Part-time employees may contribute less, with these amounts set each year by CEA members at their Delegate Assembly.
During the 2025 election cycle, the CEA directed EMO funds towards supporting recommended candidates and ballot measures. The organization stated, “With the support and engagement from educators like you, 83% of CEA Recommended Candidates were successful on election night.” According to the association, school board elections across Colorado have become increasingly competitive. They noted victories in Denver and in countering efforts by groups seeking greater control over schools in Cortez and Grand Junction.
CEA-supported ballot measures Proposition LL and Proposition MM both passed. Additionally, several school board candidates endorsed by the CEA won races across multiple districts, including Brighton 27J, Thompson, Canon City, Denver, Jefferson County, Mesa County Valley 51, Pueblo 60 and 70, Adams 12 and 14, Boulder Valley, Cherry Creek, Durango, Aurora, St. Vrain Valley, Summit County, West Garfield, Littleton, Roaring Fork, Steamboat Springs, Greeley (Weld 6), Woodland Park and others.
The organization also backed local mill levy overrides (MLOs) and bond measures such as those in Thompson R2-J School District (5A), Aspen School District (4A Mill and 4B Bond), and Adams 12 Mill (5B).
According to the CEA’s statement: “There is true power when we stand together. With your continued support—both through your EMO contributions and active engagement—we can: Elect pro-public education candidates… Support pro-public education ballot measures… Hold lawmakers accountable… Shape education policy.”
Colorado law permits individuals to contribute to political action committees or small donor committees like those formed by the CEA. However, individuals who are not U.S. citizens cannot donate to candidate-related committees; if a non-citizen has contributed through dues collection during a school year in error, their contribution will be returned as required by state law. Members who are U.S. citizens can request an annual refund of their EMO dues if they wish.
The CEA emphasizes that these member-driven contributions help provide resources needed for advocacy on funding levels for schools, teacher pay and benefits negotiations as well as resisting policies viewed as harmful to public education.
