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Magazine

NEA Today-Retired January 2019

This issue covers the effects of the opioid crisis in our schools and communities. We also talk to NEA-Retired members for a look at how their downsizing and changing their lives. Plus, read some tips on becoming a blogger.
NEA Today January 2019
Published: January 4, 2019

COVER: Teaching the Children of the Opioid Crisis

In the wake of the nationwide opioid crisis educators are doing their best to address students’ physical, cognitive, and emotional needs.

Downsizing: The Ups and Downs and Ins and Outs
A look at how some NEA-Retired members are getting rid of stuff and changing their lives (and sometimes their location).

Inspiring Children to Walk in Their Own Dreams
How NEA prepares educators to help erase institutional racism, protect immigrant families, stand up for LGBTQ students, and more. Plus, why social justice matters.

#MeToo At School
Nationwide, the #MeToo movement has prompted important conversations in the nation’s public schools.

This is Not Fake News
During a time when it’s not easy to be a journalist, the number of journalism students continues to rise.

So You Want to Be a Blogger?
A veteran of the blogosphere shares rules of the road and describes how newbies can carve out a unique space.

Bitter sweet
Teaching abroad has some benefits, but there are some challenges, too.

Issues and Impact

K–12 Public Schools: Our Crumbling, Critical Infrastructure
If we are committed to helping every child fulfill his or her potential, then safe and modern learning environments are essential.

Be Like Janene: The Power of Restoration
NEA sits down with Janene Onyango, a teacher from Twin Hills Elementary School in Willinboro, New Jersey to discuss restorative practices and her anti-racist organizing. 

People and Places

Veteran Teacher Inspires New Educator
Former student becomes first-grade teacher

From the Gambia to the South Bronx
A New York educator helps students understand “your obstacles don’t have to define your future.”

New Beginning, New Opportunities: A Note from the NEA-Retired President
Wins during the 2018 midterm elections signal new beginnings and new opportunities.

In Memoriam
Remembering former NEA-Retired Vice President John Jensen

Lily's Blackboard

The Best is Yet to Come
During the 2018 midterm elections, educators’ voices were heard loud and clear. But there’s still more work to be done.

Health and Lifestyle

Feel Like You're Burning Out?
How meditation can help you steer clear of burnout. Plus, some easy tips for starting a practice.

Extra Credit

NEA and Social Justice: 60 Years and Counting
A look at 60 years of NEA social justice work.

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We need to dismantle unjust systems. We need to fully fund public schools. We need to hold our elected leaders accountable to our communities. And we need your help to make it happen.

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National Education Association

Great public schools for every student

The National Education Association (NEA), the nation's largest professional employee organization, is committed to advancing the cause of public education. NEA's 3 million members work at every level of education—from pre-school to university graduate programs. NEA has affiliate organizations in every state and in more than 14,000 communities across the United States.