Skip Navigation
Protesters carry signs advocating for more funding for schools

We’re here to make sure 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.

We are Speaking Up For

In the Assault on Education Research, Students are the Victims
Featured Article
Trump cuts education research

In the Assault on Education Research, Students are the Victims

The Trump administration has decimated the Institute of Education Sciences, the Department of Education's research division. Students will feel most of the impact.
Rising Cost of School Supplies Increases Burden on Teachers
Featured Article
high cost of school supplies

Rising Cost of School Supplies Increases Burden on Teachers

Educators continue to reach into their own pockets to pay for classroom materials, even as prices have spiked. What‘s behind the increase?
‘Urban Heat Zones’ Making Schools Even Hotter
How Los Angeles Students Are Meeting the Threat of ICE Raids
Featured Article
A close-up of a young curly-haired woman leading a student protest, rallying her peers with passion and a megaphone.
How Schools Are Tackling Chronic Absenteeism
Featured Article
In Milwaukee, the Lincoln Avenue Community Elementary School created a walking school bus that “picks up” students and escorts them safely to school.

How Schools Are Tackling Chronic Absenteeism

Chronic absenteeism—when a student misses 10 percent of school days or more in one academic year—is a persistent nationwide problem. And many schools are still working to get students back to the classroom.

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.
Noel Candelaria at the NEA Representative Assembly
“All students deserve to [know] they belong, are welcomed, and feel safe in our public schools—no matter the language they speak or their ZIP code.”
Quote by: Noel Candelaria, NEA Secretary-Treasurer

Are you an affiliate?

Jump to updates, opportunities, and resources for NEA state and local affiliates.

Let’s get real

Let’s bring real change

Let’s get real

At least 18 states have passed laws to prohibit “divisive concepts” in schools, which can result in eliminating materials that make all students feel welcome.

Let’s bring real change

Dan Gill
“Your school should have a symbol of how people should act toward other people and how we’re responsible to be kind. We don’t have to agree, but we have to be kind. In the national spectrum, nastiness has seemingly taken over. I’m often reminded of this Cree Indian story about how there are two wolves in each of us. One is the nasty wolf who wants to degrade people, to abuse people, to take advantage of people… The other wolf is kind, understanding, and compassionate.” [People ask], “'Which wolf wins?' The answer: 'It’s the wolf we feed.'”
— Dan Gill, retired middle school educator
Bring kindness into your classroom with Gill's book

In a recent study, 88 percent of students reported their ability to concentrate improved in flexible seating environments.

Let’s bring real change

Beth Pittman
“I noticed as we were going that my behavior issues in my classroom started decreasing by a lot. Kids were feeling somewhat in control. They could choose where they wanted to sit for independent work time. Behaviors were going down and engagement was going up....I usually tell people to start with what they have, and then I always remind teachers that you need to still have a spot for your students. Maybe not necessarily a chair or desk, but you need to have a place for all your students.”
— Beth Pittman, first-grade teacher
Find advice for using flexible seating in your classroom

NEA members advocate for better pay and benefits, better working conditions, and better learning conditions for students.

Let’s bring real change

Glenn Charlie
"I’m a proud union member because it provides us with better training, better teachers, and better service for students."
— Glenn Charlie , Elementary Teacher’s Aide, Alaska
Check out our Back to School Guide to Union Membership

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.
Young students around a table

Teach Truth on Constitution Day

Constitution Day provides an opportunity to understand the rights that protect us and our communities, to review what the document contains and is missing, and to learn about the continued fight to defend those rights. We’re asking educators to teach the truth and engage students in an active study of the Constitution on September 17, 2025. Pledge to Teach Truth on Constitution Day and receive a 30-minute recorded session outlining resources and lesson plans to use with your school community.
National Education Association logo

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.