Code

The objectives of ESSIA (Estonian Ski and Snowboard Instructors Association) are as follows:

  • To unite professional ski and snowboard instructors in Estonia, develop training methodology, and establish a system for qualification exams and certifications that comply with the regulations of the International Ski Instructors Association (ISIA).
  • To create networks with similar foreign associations for the exchange of experiences and organization of training programs.
  • To promote the renewal and enhancement of ski and snowboard instructor qualifications.
  • To protect the professional interests of ski and snowboard instructors and support legislation that prohibits training by unlicensed, unskilled, and unprofessional instructors.
  • To promote safety on ski slopes.
  • Any adult individual with at least entry-level training as a ski or snowboard instructor may join the association. The required training must be certified by an accredited organization with permanent or observer status in the ISIA, and a valid license must be presented.
  • To apply for membership, the applicant submits a written application along with a copy or screenshot of the required license. The board may set additional document requirements, effective for applications submitted after the relevant board decision is enacted.
  • The board decides on the acceptance of membership. The application is reviewed at the next board meeting, but no later than two weeks after submission of all required documents. The applicant is notified of the decision in writing, with reasons if the application is rejected, within one week.
  • If the board rejects the application, the applicant may appeal to the general meeting of members. If the general meeting also rejects the application, the applicant may not reapply until one year after the previous application.
  • A member may leave the association at any time by notifying the board in writing.
  • The board may terminate a member’s membership if the member has overdue membership fees exceeding six calendar months, fails to comply with decisions made by the general meeting, does not fulfill obligations related to professional development, or hinders the objectives outlined in the association’s bylaws.
  • The board reviews the termination of membership at the earliest possible meeting, allowing the member in question to present their viewpoint. The absence of the member does not prevent a decision. The termination decision, with reasons, is sent to the member within five days.

The rights of association members are as follows:

  • To teach skiing and snowboarding professionally on all Estonian ski slopes according to their qualifications and receive compensation.
  • To receive full information from the board regarding available teaching methodologies and the latest ski and snowboard techniques.
  • To participate in the management of the association at general meetings.
  • To obtain information about the association’s activities, including access to the minutes, decisions, and orders of all association bodies.
  • To participate in all events organized by the association, make suggestions for improving activities, and express their views.
  • To update their knowledge through standard refresher courses organized by the association based on established standards and fees.

The obligations of association members are as follows:

  • To adhere to the association’s bylaws and the decisions made by the general meeting and board.
  • To regularly pay membership fees.
  • To actively participate in achieving the association’s objectives.

The General Meeting:

  • The general meeting is the highest governing body of the association.
  • All members of the association may participate in the general meeting.
  • A member may authorize another member to represent them, with each member allowed to represent up to two members by proxy.
  • The regular general meeting is held once a year, no later than May 30.
  • An extraordinary general meeting may be called by the board or upon the written request of at least one-tenth of the members, stating the reason for the meeting.
  • Notice of the general meeting is sent electronically to each member’s email address at least two weeks in advance, including the date, time, location, and agenda.
  • The general meeting is quorum-valid if at least 30% of the members, including those represented by proxy, are present.
  • If a meeting lacks a quorum, a new meeting with the same agenda is called within three weeks. Decisions are valid regardless of attendance if at least three members, including the board, are present.
  • A decision of the general meeting is adopted if more than half of the members present or represented vote in favor.

The Board:

  • The board is the executive body of the association, consisting of at least three members. The board elects a chair from among its members.
  • The board manages and represents the association. It has authority over all matters related to the association’s activities not exclusively within the competence of the general meeting.
  • The board is elected for a term of three years.
  • Board members are not remunerated for their duties.
  • A board member may be dismissed at any time by the general meeting, either unconditionally or due to significant non-performance of duties, inability to manage the association, or other substantial reasons.