Educators in Colorado are supporting public education initiatives through the Every Member Option (EMO), a voluntary political contribution program managed by the Colorado Education Association (CEA). EMO contributions, approved annually by CEA members, are used to fund political and legislative advocacy aimed at electing pro-public education candidates and influencing policies within the state.
The maximum annual EMO contribution is $49 for full-time licensed educators and $24.50 for full-time Education Support Professionals, with reduced amounts for part-time staff. These funds do not support federal candidates or issues but are directed exclusively toward Colorado candidates and ballot measures.
During the 2025 election cycle, CEA reported that 83% of its recommended candidates won their races. The association highlighted significant outcomes in school board elections across the state, including Denver, Cortez, and Grand Junction, where reform candidates were defeated and efforts to shift control of local schools were rejected. Additionally, CEA-supported ballot measures Proposition LL and Proposition MM passed.
The association listed numerous successful school board candidates in districts such as Brighton 27J, Thompson, Canon City, Colorado Springs D11, Denver, Falcon, Jefferson County, Mesa County Valley 51, Pueblo 60 and 70, Widefield 3, Cortez, Adams 12 and 14, Boulder Valley, Cherry Creek, Durango, Aurora, St. Vrain Valley, Summit County, West Garfield, Littleton, Roaring Fork, Steamboat Springs, Greeley (Weld 6), Woodland Park and others. Local mill levy overrides (MLOs) and bond measures also received support in districts like Thompson R2-J School District (5A), Aspen School District (4A Mill and 4B Bond), and Adams 12 Mill (5B).
According to the CEA statement: “There is true power when we stand together. With your continued support—both through your EMO contributions and active engagement—we can: Elect pro-public education candidates… Support pro-public education ballot measures… Hold lawmakers accountable… Shape education policy…”
Colorado law permits individuals to contribute to political action committees or small donor committees such as those formed by CEA. However, non-U.S. citizens cannot make such contributions; if a member is not a citizen but pays dues including an EMO amount by mistake during the year, that amount will be refunded according to state regulations. All eligible members may request an annual refund of their EMO dues.
For further information on EMO refunds or related policies from CEA members can refer to details provided by the organization.
