Member Spotlight: Teresa Fleming

Local 44 member Teresa Fleming is a custodian at Excel Academy High School in Baltimore City, where she has worked for over thirty years. She also serves as a member of the Local 44 bargaining team, advocating for safe working conditions and fair wages for her coworkers.

During the day, she keeps the city’s classrooms clean and gives students an environment where they can learn and thrive. “I love working with my kids, and I know having a clean school makes a difference for them. Coming to a clean space can truly change someone’s whole mood,” says Teresa.

Teresa knows the power of education and reminds her students every day how important it is that they show up and learn. “I always tell my students, no matter what you do, make sure you graduate,” says Teresa. “You’ve come too far to stop now.” In fact, you can often find Teresa giving her students pep talks, bringing them donuts for showing up to school, and checking in with them throughout the week.

She doesn’t just go above and beyond for her students; she also shows up for her coworkers. During the last few months, Teresa has been diligently going to worksites across Baltimore, informing workers about their rights in the workplace and the importance of being involved in our union. “My dad used to be a long-time union member when he worked for Domino Sugar, and he always told me, ‘Join a union and go to the meetings because unions are important.’” In light of federal funding cuts that are harming our public schools, she feels more urgency than ever to follow in her father's footsteps, advocating for her coworkers and all AFSCME members who work for Baltimore City Public Schools.