TIGER


Together In Government & Education Reform

What is Collier TIGER?

Collier TIGER is the political action committee (PAC) representing Collier County's professional education associations, CCEA and CCAEOCAP.  TIGER is an acronym for Together In Government and Education Reform, and its efforts are exclusively directed towards enhancing public education in Collier County and throughout Florida.  Collier TIGER welcomes membership from all public school employees.

Collier TIGER has been established as an independent PAC organization with its own constitution, bylaws, officers, fiscal accounts, goals and programs.  Collier TIGER is registered with Florida's Department of State, Division of Elections, as a Committee of Continuous Existence.

Why a Separate Organization?

State law requires the registration of any group which supports political campaigns.  Another important reason for creating and maintaining Collier TIGER as a separate organization is that it can more easily pool the efforts and resources of many, making it effective far beyond what could be expected from the contributions of individuals acting alone.  Collier TIGER does not and by law cannot use association (union) dues from CCEA or CCAEOCAP to contribute to candidates or political parties.

What is the Primary Purpose of TIGER?

With its commitment to quality education, Collier TIGER's basic goal is to inform all school employees regarding the direct relationship between the election of competent government officials and the improvement of teaching, learning and working conditions within our public schools.  TIGER helps coordinate political activities necessary to enhance the quality of education for our students.

School employees should understand that government officials make decisions that directly or indirectly determine the number of students in our classes, the level of our salaries, when we can retire and at what rate, what kinds of benefits will be permitted, and whether we will be given the resources to do an effective job. It is essential for Collier TIGER to seek out candidates for public office who have a sincere interest in the future of public education and its workers.

Why Does Collier TIGER Emphasize Communication?

Once elections are over, communications with elected officials must be maintained.  Through telephone calls, e-mails, face-to-face meetings or letter writing campaigns; these political leaders must be informed of our concerns and be provided with information appropriate for making sound decisions.

How Do I Become a Member of TIGER?

By making a voluntary contribution by check to Collier TIGER or by signing a TIGER payroll deduction authorization form.  Current TIGER dues for CCEA members are $18 annually and $9 annually for CCAEOCAP members.

How Will My TIGER Dues Be Used?

Collier TIGER funds are used to promote the interest of public school employees in the governmental process.  TIGER dues also are used to support political candidates who are deemed best qualified for office and who indicate a true concern for public education and public school workers.  All expenditures must be approved by the TIGER Executive Board.

Is Collier TIGER Nonpartisan?

YES, it represents both Democrats and Republicans.  TIGER is interested in securing the best candidates and provides information to help our members become better informed voters--but the choice is always up to the individual.

What Has Collier TIGER Helped to Achieve?

  • Florida's Collective Bargaining Law

  • Sick Leave Pool Benefits

  • Personal Leave Provisions

  • Salary Improvements

  • Terminal Pay Provisions

  • Retirement Benefits

  • Paid Holidays

  • Increased School Funding--An ongoing task

  • And Much More!  

How Can I Help?

  • Join Collier TIGER today!

  • Participate in the candidate screening process.

  • Make sure you, your friends and relatives are registered to vote and become informed voters.

  • Volunteer to be a member of TIGER's Executive Board.

  • Participate in our annual legislative reception, the lobbying activities associated with the legislative session and other programs of Collier TIGER.

  • Assist in the elections of our recommended candidates.

 

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