Back-to-school season is upon us! Fresh faces flood the halls, the classrooms are clean and decorated, and you have a new opportunity to connect with your union.

Being an NEA member means you are supported by a community of millions of educators dedicated to helping you and your students succeed.

This back-to-school, make sure you are making the most of your union membership. 

Check out our guide to help you navigate the benefits and ways to get involved at the local, state, and national level:

Getting Started

The National Education Association is the largest labor union in the country. We are a community of three million educators and public service workers—teachers, nurses, paraeducators, counselors, custodians, bus drivers, higher education faculty, families, and supporters—all working together for students, public schools, and our communities. 

Being part of a union can be a new experience for many educators. But don't worry, your union family is here to help you get started:

• Key Union Terms to Know
• NEA's Virtual Union Bulletin Board
• Unions and Educator Voice

Your Local, State, and National Union

When you join NEA you also become a member of your state and local union. NEA has affiliate organizations in every state and in more than 14,000 communities across the United States. Our unified structure means that wherever you are, your union colleagues are here for you. 

• Local: Your local affiliate is your district or region-level union. Members of your local negotiate contracts, advocate for worksite changes, and ensure everyone has access union protections. Contact your local affiliate support staff.
• State: The fifty state affiliates bring together members from across each state, uniting their collective power to support local initiatives, coordinate union resources, and advocate in state legislatures. Connect with your state affiliate here.
• National: Every member has the opportunity to get involved in the democratic processes that set the course for the nation’s largest union, from setting policy to budget decisions. Learn more about our decision-making conferences.

Collective Bargaining and Advocacy 

In states with collective bargaining rights, educators can secure a legally binding contract through a process in which the union and employer exchange proposals, share ideas, mutually solve problems, and reach a written agreement. 

Even if bargaining is not permitted in your state, NEA members still leverage political and community power to win on issues such as increased pay, improved benefits, stronger salary schedules, and better working conditions. We fight from city halls to state legislatures for increased funding for schools and higher education and for improving student learning outcomes.   

• Understanding Collective Bargaining
• Get to Know Your Union Contract
• Advocacy Wins in Every State

Your Rights at Work

Federal and state laws provide protections to citizens, employees, educators, and unionized workers. Our guides help public school teachers and support staff understand their rights when speaking up for public education and students.

• Our Guide to Educator Rights
• Rights and Benefits FAQ
• Protections for Union Activity

Stay Connected!

There are many ways for you to continue to connect with us:  

• Sign up for one or more of NEA’s email lists. Choose between our messages on union news, advocacy actions, professional supports, and more! 
• Follow us on social media! Add us on Instagram, Threads, Facebook, and Bluesky. 
• Text ACTION to the phone number 48744 to get notified about the latest advocacy opportunities.  
• Text PRACTICE to the phone number 48744 to learn about new professional learning resources. 

An important reminder: If you move, change phone numbers, or make any other life changes, make sure to let us know! You can update your information through our EdCommunities platform.