As an author, researcher and educator, I try to keep up with trends and practices in education. I typically focus on curriculum and instruction, intentionally sidestepping the political wrangling that usually doesn’t benefit kids. Teacher’s labor unions are notorious for their involvement with political parties and stand alone, I don’t care much for them. However, a recent revelation I’ve had about the National Education Association has prompted me to look more deeply into these unions and what they are doing in and to public education.
According to their website, the NEA supports 3 million public school educators, support staff and other personnel and has a presence in all fifty states. The NEA wields significant political power influencing legislation, endorsing political candidates and promoting initiatives and policies that benefit the organization. The NEA mission focuses on advocating for teachers and pulling members together to “fulfill the promise of public education and prepare every student to succeed in a diverse and interdependent world.”
After reviewing agenda items from the NEA 2020 Annual Meeting and Representative Assembly, it is clear to me that providing an education to students was not on their list of priorities. Of particular concern was “New Business Item 2 (2019).” Verbatim, the item reads:
“The National Education Association will rededicate itself to the pursuit of increased student learning in every public school in America by putting a renewed emphasis on quality education. NEA will make student learning the priority of the Association. NEA will not waiver in its commitment to student learning by adopting the following lens through which we will assess every NEA program and initiative: How does the proposed action promote the development of students as lifelong reflective learners?” New Business Item 2 was defeated.
You read it right. The agenda item that would rededicate agency focus to increased student learning was voted down. How does a teacher’s union vote against turning the agency focus back to student achievement? Rather than lament the how, I am presenting the information for concerned parties to consider. This is current information in effect right now. This information is available for public review. The NEA’s focus has been made clear. With this information in hand, how can anyone turn a blind eye to the truth of public education?
I am more determined than ever to ensure there are education alternatives for our children. The NEA has clearly and without apology stated their position. Now that we know where they stand, where do WE stand? Please visit ra.nea.org for the information I have shared and more alarming information that has been adopted for our kids to learn in schools.
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