School for Workers is the original university-based labor education program in the United States. Started in 1925 as one of the first operational components of the Wisconsin Idea, the School's faculty and staff have long brought teaching, research, and outreach to thousands of workers, unions and employers throughout Wisconsin, the nation and the world.
Upcoming Classes
Grievance Arbitration | Mar 16–19
Effectively resolving disputes—including utilizing the contractual grievance and arbitration process—is vital for union representatives, stewards, and members. In this class, participants will examine the tools and skills needed to investigate and resolve grievances in different …
Essentials of Leadership | Mar 30–Apr 1
How can you become a more effective leader for your organization? This educational program is applicable to leaders of any social justice, community-based, or nonprofit organization, and will involve real work (you will do actual …
Internal Organizing | Apr 13–15
This is a crucial educational program for any union—especially those seeking to adapt to “open shop” or “Right to Work.” Reinvigorate your union with successful strategies and fundamental principles for membership engagement. Learn how to …
- More upcoming classes
Education for workplace democracy
School for Workers offers a full range of educational opportunities on campus, on-site, or in your community. Programs and services are led by university faculty who utilize evidence-based research and practical know-how to educate learners about issues of concern in the workplace.
School for Workers news
Special one-night screening of The Killing Floor | Feb 22, 2020
The University of Wisconsin Cinematheque will be hosting a free, one-night only screening of The Killing Floor on Saturday, February 22, 2020 at 7 pm. The film – first released in 1985 – has new …
Letter from Director Childers 01-08-2020
Friends: As we move into the new decade, it’s hard to overstate the importance of the events swirling around us. In many ways we are all facing crossroads which have broad implications both for us …
Fractured solidarity and immigrant workers
Labor’s strength on the job, in our communities, and in our everyday political and economic actions comes from our ability to collectively act and mobilize. To act, we must cultivate solidarity and find common ground. …
The NLRB closes out 2019 with active changes that weaken worker rights
It is often said that workers’ power comes from workers themselves and from solidarity, more so than the U.S. system of labor laws. The National Labor Relations Board’s (NLRB) changes to its interpretation of the …
The Gig Economy, An Ongoing Concern
Dating back to a different time in the employee / employer relationship, most labor and employment laws only govern the conditions of employees, those individuals on an employer’s payroll, earning W-2 reportable wages. The number …
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