Robert Varela Rodriguez is a veteran special education teacher in the San Bernardino City Unified School District and currently serves as secretary‑treasurer of the National Education Association, the nation’s largest labor union representing 3 million educators. With more than two decades of classroom experience spanning elementary, middle school, special day classes, and resource specialist programs, Robert brings a deep understanding of students’ needs and educators’ realities to his national leadership.
A longtime union advocate, Robert has held numerous elected positions, including seven years on the NEA Executive Committee, six years on the NEA Board of Directors, three years on the NEA Budget Committee, a two‑year term on the CTA Board of Directors, and six years of leadership with the San Bernardino Teachers Association as president and vice president. His service reflects a steadfast commitment to strengthening the collective voice of educators and advancing equity in public education.
Robert believes that meaningful, lasting change for educators and students is achieved through organizing and collective action. He is dedicated to ensuring that every student — regardless of race, zip code, gender identity or economic status — has access to high‑quality public schools and the opportunities they create.
He holds both a bachelor’s degree in science and a master’s degree in education from California State University, San Bernardino.
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