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Aspiring Educators

NEA's leading voice for the next generation of teachers.
Aspiring Educators Logo, text reads: Education. Activism. Solidarity.
Aspiring Educator Conference 2022 logo

Registration for virtual participants in the 2022 Aspiring Educators Conference will open on May 11, 2022.

Click to register for virtual access

NEA’s Aspiring Educators Program supports, develops, and empowers diverse, pre-service teachers with the resources, networks, and opportunities to lead in their schools, communities, and in all phases of their career.

Aspiring Educators matter because they are the leading voice of the next generation of educators and leaders in this nation. Aspiring Educators make a difference because of their passion, commitment, and vision as association members who believe in public education and its potential to uplift individuals, families, and communities.

Like you, NEA Aspiring Educators advocate for and support:

Join NEA and Aspiring Educators—a pathway to excellence as an empowered educator and leader—today and tomorrow!

ASPIRING EDUCATOR AWARDS

It’s nomination season– for the NEA Aspiring Educators Conference’s Gram-AEs!  We are bringing it to you a bit early this year so you have ample time to get your nominations in.

Listed below are the following categories for which you may nominate. Most of the categories are similar from last year; however, there are brand new categories for which to nominate.

  • Outstanding Local Leader
  • Outstanding State Leader
  • Emerging Chapter Recognition
  • Local Excellence Recognition
  • State Excellence Recognition
  • Distinguished Local Advisor
  • Distinguished State Organizer
  • #AspiringEdLife Local Award
  • #AspiringEdLife State Award
  • #AspiringEdLife National Award  

Nominations are due April 8, 2022. Acknowledge the AE’s and AE programs making the world a better place and nominate today!

Access application here: 2022 AE Awards Application

Recent Updates

Aspiring Educators Logo, text reads: Education. Activism. Solidarity.

Aspiring Educator Elections

Learn how to run for Aspiring Educators offices
Learn more
student debt

Jack Kinnaman Scholarship

As an NEA Aspiring Educator you can receive a $3500 scholarship to help you afford the rising cost of your degree from our amazing retiree members.
Apply Here!
teacher residencies

Recruiting New Teachers With Residency Programs

Read about fellow AEs and their experiences across the country as they take what they’ve learned in the classroom and bring it...to the classroom!
Learn More

Aspiring Educator Speaker Request

Request the Aspiring Educator Program Chair to speak at your event!

Member Cameo Kendrick
Through NEA, I’ve gotten a deeper understanding of the issues impacting public education. I’ve learned about who my students actually are and how to best serve them, while also learning how to dismantle the things that will work against them.
Quote by: Cameo Kendrick, Aspiring Educator Program Chair, Kentucky Education Association
A Letter from Cameo Kendrick
students participate in Black Lives Matter demonstration

Our Voices, Our Power

Check out the 2021 issue of the Aspiring Educator magazine to learn how future educators are surviving the pandemic, what motivates their activism for social and economic justice, and why they're ready to lead in their careers and communities. Plus, find out about NEA's supports and advice for aspiring educator members.
National Education Association

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.
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