ADVOCATING FOR STUDENTS AND TEACHERS

The legislative process can at times be slow-moving and frustrating, but persistent advocacy pays off. That’s certainly the case with teachers’ efforts to repeal the onerous Foundations of Reading Survey which, after years of educator advocacy, led to the Connecticut legislature’s 2025 passage of a bill eliminating the survey requirement.

Educators, lawmakers, and supporters came together to recognize excellence in education at the third annual CEA Celebrates Gala this October. With nearly 300 guests in attendance, the event raised more than $25,000 for the Connecticut Education Foundation.

Starbucks workers have authorized an unfair labor practice and will go on strike starting November 13 if Starbucks doesn’t finalize fair contracts and end their union-busting. Baristas are asking everyone not to shop at any Starbucks locations for the duration of the strike.

NEA Member Benefits has teamed up with Savi, the Student Debt Navigator, to offer a free webinar Thursday, November 13, that will offer expert guidance on how to simplify repayment, explore forgiveness options, and make sure you’re not leaving money on the table.

During November, we celebrate the history, culture, and contributions of Native Peoples. To help educators with their curriculum plans, NEA has compiled lessons and resources for learning about the tribes indigenous to North America.

“We need a public service loan forgiveness program that encourages people to get into public service and to stay in public service,” said Connecticut Attorney General William Tong as he announced a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Education for unlawfully restricting eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

“As we see changes with healthcare and SNAP benefits there couldn’t be a better time to think about sponsoring and giving to people in need,” CEA Vice President and Connecticut Education Foundation President Joslyn DeLancey told Allison Demers recently on iHeart Radio’s Community Access program.

All CEA members are eligible to receive NEA Complimentary Life Insurance at no cost—but many members haven’t named a beneficiary.

Attorney General William Tong this week secured court orders in two separate lawsuits blocking the Trump Administration from unlawful cuts harming Connecticut students.

CEA provides members with full legal protection in employment related matters, but at one time or another, each of us needs legal counsel on personal matters that are important to us and our families.

Do you teach social studies to sixth, seventh, or eighth graders? Encourage them to apply to the National Civics Bee by submitting an up to 750-word essay addressing community issue, proposing a solution, and incorporating founding principles and civic virtues.

Do you have expertise in an area of teaching that would help others excel? We invite you to submit proposals for CEA’s Early Career Educator Conference, designed for educators in the first seven years of their career, which will take place Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the Mystic Marriott.