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.
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
One out of six children in America lacks consistent access to adequate nutrition.
Let’s bring real change
“There are so many barriers that make it harder for schools to do all they can to support student health. It’s often a lack of time in the school day due to other instructional demands. Some communities don’t have safe spaces where kids can play, or ready access to nutritious food that families can afford....If we want all students to have the opportunity to shine, we have to do everything we can to support good nutrition.”
— Cathy Grano, school nurse, New Jersey
Support universal school meals
Thirty-two states are spending less on public colleges and universities than they did in 2008.
Let’s bring real change
“In our latest contract, we bargained for a new advocacy committee, which will unite administrators and faculty members to advocate for increased funding. We also have hosted numerous advocacy days at the state legislature. We take our students with us where they speak their stories and struggles directly to the legislators. The work of the union is to speak. We don’t win every fight, but we’re in every fight!”
— Aruna Krishnamurthy, English professor, Fitchburg State University, Massachusetts
Learn more about the state of higher education funding
Education support professionals earn less than they did 10 years ago, when adjusted for inflation.
Let’s bring real change
“I think we finally have a single document that says, ‘here are the things that are most critical to us — and here is why it is important for districts to recognize them. That’s something we’ve badly needed.”
— Saul Ramos, paraeducator, Massachusetts
ESPs campaign for a Bill of Rights
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.
Celebrate Native American and Alaska Native Heritage Month
We have lesson plans, activities, resources, and recommended books to help students explore and celebrate Native American culture.
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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.