We’re here to make sure that every student and educator succeeds.
The National Education Association (NEA) is more than 3 million people—educators, students, activists, workers, parents, neighbors, friends—who believe in opportunity for all students and in the power of public education to transform lives and create a more just and inclusive society.
Our best hope for student success is you.
Your passion and commitment are crucial to helping all students—of all colors and backgrounds—learn, grow, and fulfill their potential. Here’s how you can get started.
Advocate for your rights & working conditions.
Achieve professional excellence and become a leader in your profession.
Advance justice with us.
Are you an affiliate?
Jump to updates, opportunities, and resources for NEA state and local affiliates.
Our journey began more than a century ago. Yours starts now.
We’ve spent decades working for students and educators—but, there’s still more to do. Like our progress during the civil rights and women’s rights movements, we need to dig in and speak up for the students and educators who are still facing inequality every day.
Let’s get real
Let’s bring real change
Let’s get real
45 out of 50 states fail to provide adequate funding to public schools.
Let’s bring real change
The best, most equitable public school that I can imagine would be the fully funded school that our students deserve. Poverty is decriminalized and all kids have access to meals regardless of their parent's ability to pay. All educators and support staff are paid a professional wage.
— Stephanie Price, Oklahoma Education Association, Classroom Teacher
Speak out for education funding
Families of color and indigenous communities have been hit hardest by the pandemic.
Let’s bring real change
Our union touches every community in our state. It has spoken up for the safety and wellbeing of students and educators—whether it’s validating their lives or making sure they’re protected from COVID-19.
— Tamika Kelly, North Carolina Education Association, Elementary Music Specialist
Get support educating through COVID-19
The average starting teacher salary is $39,249, and 59% of teachers take on extra work to make ends meet.
Let’s bring real change
Education justice means that every student in the public education system has enough resources, has enough opportunities to focus on education. It means that teachers are paid enough, that we have enough counselors, and that support staff are making enough so they don’t have to worry about living paycheck to paycheck.
— Hugo Arreola, Arizona Education Association, Computer Lab Technician
Learn more about professional pay
What’s on Your Mind?
We’re here to help. Our community comes to us seeking tools (guides, fact sheets, trainings, and more) to help answer everyday questions. We’re here to support you in whatever you need.
Go local, get active.
The best way you can support students and protect public education is to get involved directly in your community. At NEA, we partner closely with our state and local affiliates to support you where you live and work.
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From education news to action alerts to member benefits-we're here to help you succeed in your career, advocate for your students, and support public education. Sign up to stay informed.
Great public schools for every student
The National Education Association (NEA), the nation's largest
professional employee organization, is committed to advancing the cause of
public education. NEA's 3 million members work at every level of
education—from pre-school to university graduate programs. NEA has
affiliate organizations in every state and in more than 14,000 communities
across the United States.