In a very short time, you will be charged with providing a quality education for every child who comes into your classroom. That's a huge challenge, an awesome responsibility, and, frankly, a daunting task. But the good news is that as an Association member, you are not alone. You have the support and expertise of 2.7 million colleagues who, like you, are committed to creating great public schools for every child.

Some of you have come to teaching through a traditional route, from high school to college, where you made the decision to become teachers. More and more of you are coming to the profession somewhat later in life, following successful careers in other areas. Many of you are
parents or caregivers. I encourage all of you to value your very different backgrounds and life experiences and find ways to share and learn from each other—not only in classroom settings, but outside the school day as well.

Through the Association, I also encourage you to allow those of us who have been in the profession to serve as mentors. Seek us out when you need help or assistance, whether it's with a personal or professional concern.

Use the NEA Student Program to help you achieve your professional goals. Build your leadership skills, make lifelong connections with fellow students and teaching colleagues, and stay up-to-date on the issues that affect classrooms today. Most of all, make sure you do the best job you can possibly do to help every student achieve.

America's students need you. America's students are counting on you. Thank you for answering the call. Thank you for caring about students and their future.

I appreciate your enthusiasm, your energy, and your talents. And I look forward to working with you on behalf of America's public school students.

Reg Weaver
NEA President