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NEA Today January 2021

In this issue, we explore what COVID-19 taught us about our students with special needs; how educators were a winning force in election 2020; steps you can take to get your student debt under control, why we need diverse books; and more.
student posing with school mural Kate Wool
KJ Blackburn, is a special education student in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Published: January 2021

COVER: Creativity in Crisis

Students with special needs have been deeply impacted by the closure of school buildings. Educators and parents share how they have overcome obstacles to give these students the education they deserve.

How to Make Your Voice Heard at the Statehouse

Lawmakers around the country are back in session in January. Find out what you can do to put public education at the top of their priority list.

Slaying the Student Debt Monster

Buried under a mountain of education loans? NEA has helped many members manage their debt and can help you, too.

Educators Were a Winning Force in Election 2020

Big victories in election 2020 were the culmination of years of community organizing by educators.

How to Create the Perfect Home Teaching Space

Try these tips from fellow educators to give your home office/virtual classroom a refresh. 

Why We Need Diverse Books

For students of color, reading books that reflect their identities can be life-changing. Hear from educators and well-known authors, and get recom-mendations for your class reading list. 

Ed Tech 911

NEA member-leaders have stepped up to provide desperately needed tech training during the pandemic.

Education Support Professionals: Self-Care Strategies Can Help Frontline Workers Manage Stress

Education support professionals are under more pressure than ever. NEA has teamed up with wellness experts who offer techniques for coping with traumatic stress and finding calm. 

Issues and Impact

The pandemic has led to a spike in childhood hunger; Doriann Wiegand is one of thousands of school employees working to feed families in need. 

People and Places

Meet some of the winners of the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. 

Why I’m a Member

A Native American educator shares how his union gives him a voice to speak out for marginalized students.

Extra Credit

Milwaukee Art Build Workers create artwork and posters to boost support for public education and unions.

A Note From the Editor-in-Chief

The election of Joe Biden as president of the United States is a game-changer for public education.

President’s Viewpoint

NEA members helped deliver Joe Biden and Kamala Harris’ victory in election 2020. Now our work begins.

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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.