Hi there,

We ran out of eggs the other day, and I wanted to make my chicken cutlets. It was 18 degrees outside. I wasn’t about to go out in that kind of cold—so I asked my husband (who never looks at prices) to do the shopping.  

He came home with eggs, strawberries, trash bags, and a couple other small things. I thanked him and unpacked the two bags. Then, I saw the receipt: $75! The strawberries alone were $6.99! (You should be able to afford strawberries!) 

That’s why NEA is taking a closer look at pay in our January NEA Today cover story. Mary Ellen Flannery shares how many educators can’t afford the basics—like fruit and vegetables—and how union advocacy is helping increase their pay.

Your pay in retirement may also increase, thanks to a major victory 40 years in the making.  

Because of NEA advocacy, a new law will boost Social Security payments for millions of retired educators, first responders, and other public service workers. It repeals the Government Pension Offset and Windfall Elimination Provision (GPO and WEP), meaning more money in many pockets.  

Our winter issue is packed with these stories and more. We also explore how unions are tackling cell phone use in schools, how to overcome teacher guilt (because you’re doing enough), and so much more. You can read the full issue here.

Now, please excuse me as I head to the store—because while some of us are not the best price shoppers, I hope you find comfort in knowing NEA is always looking out for your wallet. 

Thank you for all you do for our students, schools, and communities.  
 

In solidarity,  Giovanna Bechard  Editor-in-Chief  NEA Today

What should NEA Today cover next? 

We want to hear your story ideas!   

Tell us about a challenge you, your colleagues, or your students face or how your local union made your life better.  

This is your publication and your stories matter.