For More information:
NEA Communications (202) 822-7200

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 3, 1998

NEW ORLEANS -- National Education Association (NEA) President Bob Chase, a middle school social studies teacher, today gave a history lesson on the values that have defined this nation, to urge support for a single organization representing America's school employees.

Speaking before more than 10,000 delegates attending the NEA's Annual Meeting here, Chase praised the nation's founding fathers who had the courage to sign the Louisiana Purchase nearly 200 years ago. "They, like us, were engaged in creating a greater union," he said. "They, like us, were facing the prospect of expanding their world by one third. But they had faith that the benefits of expansion would far outweigh the risks."

Chase challenged his audience to rekindle that spirit and support unification with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) for the sake of children and public education. Acknowledging the magnitude of this decision, Chase conceded that some uneasiness and discomfort are inevitable. Nonetheless, he urged educators to overcome their fears and "put our concern for children ahead of our own uncertainties."

The move toward unification is a natural evolution of the NEA's renewed emphasis on quality teaching and learning, Chase explained. As an example, he outlined local Association efforts to reduce class size, improve technology, and reconnect families and schools – all of which would be enhanced within a united organization.

"Focus, strength, intellectual resources, and a more effective voice for children and schools" are the proven gains from unity, Chase said, pointing to NEA locals that have been united for years.

Calling attention to the external attacks on teachers and their unions, Chase said it was time to set aside internal rivalries and create a unified family of educators. With many teachers reaching retirement age and millions of new teachers needed over the next decade, he told the delegates to look to the future. "We must create a better organization for these two million educators who will come after us. We cannot pass on to them a legacy of bitterness towards their peers, especially when we have it in our power to pass on to them a legacy of cooperation."

The NEA delegates, who represent Association members from across the nation, are expected to respond to Chase's call for unity by voting favorably on July 5 for a set of principles that lay the foundation for a new organization. His keynote address was delivered at the opening session of an historic NEA meeting that will include a visit from Vice President Al Gore.

The National Education Association is the nation's largest professional employee organization, representing more than 2.7 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support personnel, school administrators, retired educators, and students preparing to become teachers.