Frequently Asked QuestionsIs the State Liability Coverage enough to protect me?The state-provided liability insurance is NOT enough to protect teachers in the classroom. Membership with PEN of Florida provides teachers with liability insurance and other important benefits such as employee rights protection that go far beyond the liability insurance provided by the state. Furthermore, should you find yourself in a legal situation the state’s policy would cover, you would be expected to find your own attorney and consultations would be minimal. How much will the liability insurance cover if I am sued?Up to $2 Million. How can PEN's dues be so low? Don't you get what you pay for?
Do you provide legal help to enforce the contract as it applies to Florida teachers?Yes. We defend our members against any violation of the local collective bargaining contract and all state education laws. Florida is a right to work state and therefore the contract covers all employees regardless of union membership. PEN provides the following legal protections to members at no additional cost: contract enforcement, certification problems or questions, reduction in force or layoffs, suspension (with/without pay), letters of reprimand, evaluations, student discipline issues, parent or student complaints, professional practices cases, transfers, harassment, surplus, and health and safety issues. How is that done? Does PEN have lawyers on staff?Yes, and your defense will be handled by the type of attorney that fits the nature of the issue (i.e. education, criminal charges, labor, etc.). What do I do if I have a legal issue?The most important thing to do is to IMMEDIATELY email legal@penfl.org, or call our office (800-311-7770). Our legal team will assist you within one business day. Even if you are not sure whether your situation is one that needs PEN’s services, still contact us right away. In the meantime, do not talk about your situation with anyone or on social media, unless it is to cooperate with your administration on the issue. You will receive support and direction from our legal team as to how to proceed. Will these legal protections cost me anything out of pocket?No. PEN members are provided, at no additional cost, with up to $10,000 in legal defense fees. Since 1995, we have defended hundreds of members, and it has never gone over the $10,000 limit—and have rarely come close. How can PEN help members if there is not a PEN school representative at every school?
Can I still file a grievance if I am a PEN member?Yes. PEN attorneys will assist and represent you in this action. Is PEN involved with collective bargaining?No, PEN is not a labor union, so we do not participate in collective bargaining. How can PEN of Florida really represent me if they are not the collective bargaining agent?
How does PEN advocate for its members and education?
I have been told that PEN is a Christian/Republican group. Is this true?
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