This week, for the first time in more than two years, members of NEA’s Board of Directors will go to Capitol Hill and meet face-to-face with senators, representatives, and their staffs. They will be pushing for action on two issues of great importance to our members: the educator shortage and the need to protect LGBTQ+ students from bullying and harassment.
Meanwhile, we are preparing for the release of Supreme Court rulings on controversial cases with far-reaching implications not just for students and educators, but all Americans. A leaked ruling that made headlines last week would overturn Roe v. Wade—described as “settled law” by several justices, under oath, during their confirmation hearings.
NEA advocates for the rights of our members—78 percent of whom are women—and that includes their reproductive freedom.
NEA President Becky Pringle tweeted, “Today many of us are scared, worried, angry. I see you. I hear you. And I am with you. NEA has a long, clear history of advocating for our members—for their rights and freedoms—and we won’t stop now. Their reproductive health decisions should be theirs to make.”
Chief Justice John Roberts confirmed that the leaked ruling is authentic, but cautioned that the final version could differ. It is expected to be released in late June or early July, when the court concludes its current term.
In solidarity,
Marc Egan
Government Relations Director
National Education Association
President Biden’s FY2023 budget proposal is a statement of values that we share. It would make historic investments in the students most in need through $36.5 billion in Title I funding, $16.3 billion in IDEA state grants, and $468 million in full-service community schools.
This bipartisan bill can help address the educator shortage—critical even before the pandemic—by making programs that offer on-the-job experience more accessible and affordable.
Students must feel safe in school to be curious, engaged learners, but this is not the reality for many LGBTQ+ students. This bill would help give those students the sense of security they deserve.
