Congratulations on steering yourself into a great profession: teaching!

Welcome to the National Education Association. As a Student Program member you belong to a group of 2.7 million educators who work hard for the public schools every day. And I don't mean just teachers. The National Education Association represents elementary and secondary teachers, education support professionals (ESPs), higher education faculty and staff, retired educators, and you—the future of the organization and the teaching profession.

As a member of the NEA Student Program, you have the opportunity to learn more about the world of education. And being involved in the Association will give you the resources to become a better teacher. This isn't just an organization that offers liability insurance to protect you in the classroom. NEA has it all—from print and online publications to tips on writing grants and helping your community to professional development. Not to mention the great discounts available through NEA's Member Benefits program. Staying active also gives you the chance to build leadership skills, make lifelong connections with fellow students and teaching colleagues, and stay up-to-date on the issues that affect classrooms today.

Public education has gone through many changes over the years and, most likely, you'll find yourself changing as well as you learn new things about your chosen profession. The Student Program can help you on that journey through its strong foundation in community outreach, teacher quality, and political action—the cornerstones of our program designed to better prepare you for the opportunities that await you.

I want to welcome you to TEAM NEA! Congratulations again on joining the National Education Association Student Program. You're on your way to great places and we look forward to helping you succeed.

Mandy Plucker
NEA Student Program Chair