MyPayMySay is encouraging teachers to consider securing personal liability insurance to protect themselves from legal and financial risks that may not be fully covered by school district policies.
The group highlights that educators today face increasing exposure to legal challenges, such as accusations of unfair treatment or involvement in student incidents. Personal liability insurance can serve as an added layer of protection, covering legal defense costs, false claims, student injuries, and accidental property damage. Independent insurance plans are available—especially for non-union teachers—offering affordable, tailored options based on individual needs.
According to NPR, educators in the United States increasingly face legal challenges, such as accusations of unfair grading practices and allegations arising from interventions in student altercations. Without adequate liability coverage, teachers may incur significant legal expenses and personal stress. A 2024 survey by the American Psychological Association found that approximately 14% of school employees had been victims of physical violence, highlighting the potential risks educators face.
In 2022, Oklahoma Senator Greg Treat introduced Senate Bill 1592, establishing the Educators’ Professional Liability Insurance Program. This program provides a state-funded $1 million liability insurance policy for all public school teachers and employees. The initiative is designed to protect educators from personal financial risk resulting from lawsuits, particularly in situations such as intervening in student altercations. The initiative reflects a broader trend of seeking additional protections for educators amid rising legal challenges in their professional roles.
According to its website, MyPayMySay (MPMS) focuses on empowering educators by offering essential resources, advocacy, and support to address challenges in modern classrooms. MPMS advocates for policies that promote teacher autonomy, student achievement, and access to quality educational tools.
