NEA

What is it and how can it help you?

What is the NEA?

The National Education Association  (NEA) is the nation’s leading organization committed to advancing the cause of public education. NEA, with its headquarters in Washington, D.C., proudly claims 3.2 million members who work at every level of education, from preschool to university graduate programs. NEA has affiliates in every state and more than 13,000 local communities nationwide.

At the local level, NEA affiliates offer a variety of services from conducting professional development workshops on discipline and other issues to bargaining contracts for school district employees.

At the state level, NEA affiliates lobby legislators for the resources schools need, campaign for higher professional standards for the teaching profession, and file legal actions to protect academic freedom and the rights of school employees.

At the national level, NEA lobbies Congress and federal agencies on behalf of its members and public schools. The Association also supports and coordinates innovative projects, works with other education organizations, and assists its affiliates.

How does it work?

NEA members nationwide set Association policy, most notably through an annual Representative Assembly—called the RA—held every July. NEA members at the state and local level elect some 9,000 RA delegates, who, in turn, elect NEA’s top officers, debate issues, and set NEA policy. Between RAs, NEA’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee serve as the top decision-making bodies. Staff at the local, state, and national levels carry out the policies implemented by the governing bodies.

How can NEA help you?

By joining the NEA Student Program,  you join a network of 60,000 students dedicated to improving teacher education and supporting prospective teachers. As a member of the largest preprofessional Association for future educators, you have the chance to meet practicing teachers and fellow Student members at state and national leadership conferences, workshops, and public forums. You also have the opportunity to become a local, state, or national officer or serve as a delegate to NEA’s annual Representative Assembly—roles guaranteed to enrich your teaching and advocacy skills. Student members also serve on the NEA Board of Directors and NEA Resolutions Committee, as well as numerous other committees that cover everything from human rights to legislation and membership.

The Student Program offers SOAR (Student Organizing Assistance Resources) grants to help with membership recruitment on your campus and CLASS (Community Learning Through America’s Schools) grants for community outreach projects. Students also can apply for the Jack Kinnaman Scholarship, which awards scholarships to Student members each year. Members receive information and assistance with student teaching, certification, and professional development as well.

The NEA Student Program provides many opportunities for you to learn, to share, and to socialize with your peers—and with practicing educators. Your membership in the Association is an investment in your education and your future. So what are you waiting for? Join the Student Program today.

Benefits of Membership Services

NEA Student Program members receive two publications to help you follow education trends: the annual magazine Tomorrow’s Teachers and NEA Today, published eight times a year. You’ll find resources, job information, and links to other NEA Student chapters on the program’s Web site at www.nea.org/student-program. You also qualify for $1 million of insurance coverage through the NEA Educators Employment Liability Program, which covers you every time you step into a classroom. Here are some Student members’ favorite benefits:

• 10% off on textbooks through Barnes and Noble.com
• Need help with Praxis II? Log on to NEA’s online workshop
• Compare notes with fellow future teachers across the country on the Members-Only discussion boards.

Plus get discounts on car rentals, magazines, car insurance, credit card programs, and more. Go to www.neamb.com for details.

Professional Development

The NEA Student Program holds a national leadership and professional development conferences. The Student Leadership Conference, which takes place June 26-29, 2008, in Washington, D.C., features lively sessions and a community outreach project.

Rebate

You’ll also receive a $20 dues credit for each year you spend in the NEA Student Program (up to four years) to apply toward continued Association membership during your first year as a teacher.

For more information, contact the NEA Student Program Office, 1201 16th Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20036, (202) 822-7130.