The Montgomery County Association of Administrators and Principals (MCAAP) and the Montgomery County Business and Operations Administrators (MCBOA) were officially presented their affiliation charter and welcomed into the American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA) as Local 146 on Nov. 16 at the union’s annual fall meeting.

“It’s with great joy that I extend a warm welcome to all of you as valued members of our extended family,” said AFSA President Dr. Leonard Pugliese. “We take immense pride in being the only professional union dedicated to solely representing school leaders like you across the United States. By joining AFSA, you've taken a significant step in fortifying your collective voice through our union.” 

Pugliese was proud to say many of the new members from Montgomery County already have become advocates. “MCAAP/MCBOA President Christine Handy joined us on Capitol Hill and at the U.S. Department of Education to discuss critical issues you face every day, and two other members of Local 146 took part in a closed-door meeting with U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education Cindy Marten to share insights from the field about how the U.S. Department of Education, and Biden-Harris administration as a whole, can best support Jewish, Arab, Muslim and all students during this difficult time, and ensure all students are free to learn.

“By joining AFSA, every member here has gained access to a dedicated team of people that offers invaluable insights, unwavering support and comprehensive research to assist in addressing matters such as contract negotiations, grievances, policy deliberations and everyday affairs of the union,” said Pugliese.