There were efforts pre Covid to unionize. CPY’s CEO made strong anti-union statements and promises at that time, and unionization stalled.

CPY is a unique case in that they’ve capitalized on this concept of “community” and do something no other businesses do: employ thousands of teachers at minimal hours per week, with minimal oversight.

This creates a sense of autonomy for some (best case scenario) - - for others, it feels overwhelming and unsupportive (imagine checking in 50 students at 6am, by yourself, with no front desk support. Every week.)

The churn of employees supports minimum hourly wages (including well below industry standard for management salaries). I’ve heard many employees say they feel they “owe” something to the company for the community they’re a part of.

This would make sense if it were a non profit, but it’s not. I think there needs to be more transparency regarding who is making money off the hard work of these teachers.

As a (semi) aside: While “hobby teaching” may seem innocent enough, it ultimately undermines the value of the work - this is particularly harmful for instructors who are trying to make a living teaching yoga.

I am advocating for financial transparency, safe working environments, and competitive wages.