We’re here to make sure that every student & 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.
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Advance justice with us.
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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
Recently, certain parent groups and lawmakers nationwide have pushed legislation to prevent educators in public schools from teaching about systemic racism.
Let’s bring real change
“It’s the best part of teaching. I get to know my students and their truths....We then learn we all have the same struggles despite our backgrounds. I do more good work in creating a mindful student who looks at the world through equity, justice, and love, than if I censor myself.”
— Franchesca Mejia, music teacher, Austin, Texas
Read more about teaching with an anti-racist lens
A nondiverse teaching corps is a consistent barrier to producing strong, racially equitable education outcomes.
Let’s bring real change
“I speak Yugtun, the native language of our region, and though most of the students speak English, I teach them about the language and how we must keep it alive....The students can relate to me because they know I’m there for them and we have lived the same experience. My work with the union shows them how I’m working for them. For example, we’re working hard to save our school from being swallowed by the river.”
— Glenn Charlie, elementary teacher’s aide in Napakiak, Alaska
Learn how Grow Your Own programs support educator diversity
Failure to pronounce a name correctly can adversely impact the worldview and social-emotional well-being of students.
Let’s bring real change
“Getting names right before we meet them in class can minimize any possibility of an awkward or uncomfortable exchange in class. As an adult, I'm impressed when I meet someone for the first time and they pronounce my name correctly. They know that the 'g' in my name sounds like an 'h,' for example. So students will be impressed as well.”
— Sugely Solano, ESOL teacher coordinator
Tips for pronouncing student names correctly
What’s on Your Mind?
We’re here to help. Our community comes to us seeking tools (guides, reports, trainings, and more) to help answer everyday questions. We’re here to support you in whatever you need.
Why Pronouncing Students' Names Correctly is So Important
What's in a name? Sometimes everything, so educators should be aware how repeatedly mispronouncing it can have a lasting, negative impact. Getting names right can help create a learning environment in which all students feel valued and respected.
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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.