Cover: Lean on Me
As one of the most challenging school years in history draws to a close, educators share how their colleagues and fellow union members supported them and lifted them up, creating bonds that will last long after the pandemic is over.
In Our Own Voices
Being a teenager is hard enough, but when you’re an LGBTQ+ student of color, the pressures can be even greater. NEA Today interviews three students about how their race and gender identities affect them at school and how educators have helped them along the way.
What’s Your Inspiration?
A woodworking class taught from Home Depot? Young children performing a collaborative reading on Zoom? Read about these brilliant ideas and other creative ways educators engaged with students and created a sense of community in their virtual classrooms.
Q&A: Meet the New Secretary of Education
NEA President Becky Pringle hosted a town hall with Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. Find out how he answered members’ questions about his priorities for public schools.
EDUCATION SUPPORT PROFESSIONALS
NEA’s ESP of the Year Gives Back in Every Aspect of Her Career
The ever-energetic Kimberly Scott- Hayden is a leader in her union and spearheads efforts to create an inclusive curriculum in her district. Among her contributions, she also helped organize food services during the pandemic.
Issues and Impact
Educators helped reset the nation’s leadership, reshaping public schools for years to come
Educator advocacy played a key role in Joe Biden’s election and the passage of the American Rescue Plan—which includes $170 billion for schools!
Be Like Vanessa: Stand up for Staff Mental Health
Learn how a local union negotiated for health and wellness specialists for school staff.
People and Places
Meet the Next Generation
Three aspiring educators explain what drives their activism
Students Deserve a Welcoming and Inclusive School Setting
Check out a program that aims to create LGBTQ+- and gender-inclusive schools.