Brett Smith for NEA Secretary-Treasurer

Trusted Leadership. Fiscal Responsibility. A Voice for ALL Educators.

Meet Brett Smith

Experience matters - and it defines Brett Smith’s leadership. A fifth-grade teacher at Linden Community Schools and a lifelong advocate for public education, Brett became Vice President of the Michigan Education Association (MEA) in July 2023, following six impactful years as Secretary-Treasurer.

From leading his local as President of the Linden Education Association to shaping statewide financial policy, Brett’s experience spans the local, state, and national levels. He brings seasoned insight, steady leadership, and a deep understanding of what educators need - because he’s lived it, led it, and delivered results at every level.

Experience That Bridges the Classroom and Boardroom

Experience matters - in and out of the classroom. Before becoming an educator, Brett Smith gained valuable business experience at General Motors and Ameritech, building a foundation in strategic planning and fiscal management that continues to shape his leadership today.

A proud MEA member since 2000, Brett brings more than two decades of union advocacy rooted in real-world classroom experience and a deep understanding of the challenges educators face every day.

Education and Leadership Preparation

Experience matters - and so does preparation. Brett holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Finance from the University of Michigan–Flint, a Master's degree in Business Administration from Central Michigan University, and an endorsement in Educational Administration from Eastern Michigan University.

This strong academic foundation reinforces the financial expertise and educational insight he brings to every leadership role, ensuring he leads with both integrity and informed perspective.

State Officer and Strategic Leader

Experience matters - especially when managing the resources that educators count on. As MEA Secretary-Treasurer, Brett oversaw and implemented five multi-million dollar budget cycles. Each year under his leadership, the budget deficit was reduced, reflecting his commitment to fiscal responsibility and strategic planning.

Now, as Vice President, Brett continues to bring that same level of accountability to MEA governance, overseeing operations, managing statewide elections, supporting key committees, and ensuring compliance with the organization’s governing documents.

Leading With Financial Expertise

Experience matters - especially when safeguarding members’ futures. Brett oversees MEA’s affiliated entities responsible for managing insurance, retirement, and investments. He works with complex financial programs, such as VEBA and 401 (h) healthcare accounts, ensuring that member funds are managed with transparency, accountability, and long-term sustainability.

His decisions are grounded in detailed analysis, rigorous financial reporting, and a deep commitment to MEA’s mission and the members it serves.

Policy Solutions that Balance Integrity and Compassion

Experience matters - especially when balancing fiscal responsibility with member support. As Secretary-Treasurer, Brett worked with MEA leadership to create the Revocation Policy, which allows for changes in membership status after five months of nonpayment. The policy has significantly reduced organizational debt while providing a clear and compassionate path to reinstatement for affected members.

In partnership with colleagues and member leaders, he also helped develop the Commitment to Membership initiative, which offers flexible payment plans to support members facing financial hardship. Together, these efforts reflect Brett’s ability to lead collaboratively, with both discipline and empathy, thereby fostering a stronger and more inclusive union.

A Vision for National Impact

Experience matters - now more than ever. As Brett steps forward to run for NEA Secretary-Treasurer, his mission is clear: to build a national union that empowers educators, protects public education, and stewards member resources with integrity and care.

His campaign is grounded in experience, shaped by decades of classroom teaching and union leadership, and fueled by a deep commitment to collaboration, accountability, and leading with both heart and skill.

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