Putting Members Back at the Center
A MESSAGE TO THE MEMBERS
When we look across our schools, we see people who give everything they have. We see members who show up each day with a sense of purpose and a belief in the work they do. We see the effort, the professionalism, and the commitment that carry our schools forward.
And we also see something else. We see a truth that has been clear for some time. Our association must rise to meet the needs of the people it represents. It must be open. It must be accountable. It must be present in every school and in every role. It must be an organization that listens before it speaks and includes every voice before it decides a path forward.
That is the work in front of us. It is not the work of one individual. It is the work of all of us together. It begins with a strong foundation built on clear bylaws and open committees. It grows through honest conversations in our buildings, where we take time to understand the real experiences of our members. It continues with working groups that bring together the many roles in our system so that no one is left out and leadership always knows what is happening each day in our schools.
We are building a culture where members know how decisions are made, where dues go, and how their voices shape the future. We will meet with you in your buildings. We will publish clear information. We will set office hours so you always know where we are and when you can reach us. And we will stand with you in Annapolis, speaking for the people who make our schools work.
This is what it means to put members first. It is not a slogan. It is a commitment. It is a promise that the association belongs to the people who give their all for the students of this county.
And as we do this work, we will also prepare for the years ahead. For too long, our association has paid rent on a home that is not our own. It is time to look toward a permanent headquarters, a place that belongs to the members and stands as a sign of stability and progress. We will pursue this responsibly and carefully, just as we will continue outreach that builds community connections while protecting our tax exempt status and the trust of our members.
None of this will be simple. Real progress rarely comes easily. But we have something powerful on our side. We have each other. We have a membership that knows what it means to work hard, to look after one another, and to keep moving forward. When we bring that spirit to our association, there is no limit to what we can build together.
This is our moment to create an organization that reflects our highest values. One that listens. One that leads. One that stands with its members and for its members. The path ahead may challenge us, but it will be worth every step.
Together, we will rebuild. Together, we will empower. Together, we will build a future that is strong, stable, and worthy of the people we serve.
Let us begin.
Vice President
Dwayne Hancock, the current Vice President of the Education Association of St. Mary’s County (EASMC), is an experienced Educational Support Professional who has dedicated years to advocating for both certified and non-certified staff. He has played a crucial role on key committees including Negotiations, Health and Wellness, Legislative, and Budget, and has proudly represented educators as both an MSEA and NEA delegate. Dwayne is well-known in public forums, having addressed the Board of Education and the Board of County Commissioners. He has organized and marched to protect our schools and fix the funding, while also actively supporting the ESP Bill of Rights. Dwayne has consistently fought for fair contracts, benefits, and respect for all who contribute to our schools.
Sean Sayers for EASMC President: Members First
Sean Sayers brings 17 years of teaching experience in St. Mary’s County, where he has dedicated his career to supporting students, families, and the professionals who make schools thrive. His service includes time on the Board of Directors for the Education Association of St. Mary’s County (EASMC), participation on the Labor Relations Board, and leadership of the Back to Basics campaign, a major job action effort that saw more than 80 percent of educators and support personnel participate. Beyond the classroom, Sean has consistently advocated for members, lobbying on behalf of the EASMC and ensuring that every educator and staff member has a strong voice in shaping the future of local schools. He has spoken in the public arena before the Board of County Commissioners and is not afraid to have the necessary conversations behind the scenes when the focus is on getting the work done. His background also includes credentials in disaster management and supervision, as well as experience as an analyst for a weapons program, which provide him with a unique perspective on leadership, organization, and problem-solving. As he seeks to serve as EASMC President, Sean’s commitment remains the same: to represent every educator and staff member with integrity.
Always Supporting Our ESP Members