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Hi there,
Whenever a new school year starts, I think back to when my boys began kindergarten—the excitement of picking out backpacks, snacks for lunch, and sharing gym class stories. It feels like yesterday, but now my oldest drives himself to school.
There feels like so much to worry about: His safety, his choices, his future. So much of what he knows and learns happens away from us, his parents. He’s at his public school most of the day where we rely on adults we haven’t even met, to help teach him the skills he will need to succeed. The responsibility of each educator is enormous.
It’s also why it’s critical to understand that you’re not alone in that responsibility. Your union is here to help you on the job—knowing your rights to advocate for yourself and your students, stay safe at school, and support every student is essential, and your union can help you navigate it all. That’s why NEA Today has a special pull-out section in our back-to-school issue to deal with these important topics. Read it here.
We’re also starting the year off with some fun teaching tools, like using hip hop in the classroom, and following the wisdom of Ted Lasso. NEA Today also tackles chronic absenteeism, the impact of school vouchers on rural communities, and the risk of burnout due to student behaviors. | |
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As you begin this year, whether it’s your first or fiftieth in education, I hope it’s full of wonder, opportunity, and a lunch box that holds your favorite snack—for me it was always Little Debbie Cosmic Brownies.
Have a great year!
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In solidarity,
Giovanna Bechard
Editor-in-Chief
NEA Today |
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Do you know when to raise your union voice? NEA Today’s guide highlights key NEA member rights where you’ll discover real stories of educators using their voice, power, and union to protect students and shape public education. |
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