Hi Ken,
Thank you for taking the time to share your concerns. We hear you, and we know that every dollar matters, especially for teachers navigating limited resources and rising costs.
This is the first time in five years that troupe dues have increased. We held off as long as possible, understanding the financial pressures so many educators face. We've made deliberate choices to reduce expenses internally over the past year and as a non-profit organization, our team remains committed to operating as efficiently and frugally as possible.
We invite all members to view our ongoing Strategic Plan and Annual Report to see the range of programs, advocacy, and educator and student support we've delivered in the past year, thanks in large part to the dues and donations from our members. Our goal is always to provide the greatest possible impact and value to our members and their students, and we're continually adding and improving upon the member benefits we list online. Please feel free to reach out to members@schooltheatre.org with any follow up questions.
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Dr. Jennifer Katona
Executive Director/President
Educational Theatre Association
Educational Theatre Foundation
NYC
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Original Message:
Sent: 05-22-2025 07:47
From: Kenneth Robinson
Subject: increase in troupe dues
Ms. Schneider:
Although I did not question the accuracy of my dues bill, I was surprised that dues increased to $145. I feel that ETA is pricing small rural schools such as mine out membership. Because of scheduling problems and lack of student interest in straight shows, I have had to cancel my last two straight shows; therefore, I am unable to pay the dues at this time.
However, that is not your problem and is not my reason for responding. I am wondering if you can justify the increase in dues which seems to happen every other year or so. What additional benefits is a school receiving with each increase in dues? Or is it a matter of ETA meeting its costs? If it is the latter, I have to ask what ETA is doing to reduce its costs instead of passing the increases on to the schools?
Don't get me wrong. I appreciate ETA and what it offers students and schools. I'd just like to understand why dues seem to increase constantly. Any response would be appreciated. I am sure other schools are having similar thoughts.
Thank you,
Ken Robinson
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Kenneth Robinson
Drama Club Sponsor
Wapahani High School
Selma IN
Original Message:
Sent: 05-21-2025 16:07
From: Tammy Schneider
Subject: increase in troupe dues
Yes, your renewal notice is correct. Troupe dues increased from $129 to $145, and a notice about the increase was sent in April.
We truly appreciate your attention to detail and dedication to keeping everything in order before summer. If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to let us know-we're always happy to help.
Wishing you a smooth end to the school year,
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Tammy Schneider
Membership Journey Director
Educational Theatre Association
OH
Original Message:
Sent: 05-21-2025 15:02
From: Veronica Stephenson
Subject: increase in troupe dues
I am just confirming that my invoice was correct (our secretary pointed out the change): troupe dues increased from $129 to $145? I searched for a notification and couldn't find one, but just wanted to be certain I wasn't billed wrong. Trying to wrap up the year so I don't forget to pay in August.
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Veronica Stephenson
Teacher/Director
Enterprise High School
AL
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