State Aspiring Educator Retreat by Hannah St. Clair

2025-09-06 21:09:08 UTC

I participated in some Read Across America events when I was in elementary school! Furthermore, more generally, the changes NEA helped to make legislatively allowed me to be in racially diverse classrooms and with diverse teachers.

hannahleerake — 2025-09-06 21:09:25 UTC

Honestly, I’ve seen how much of a difference our union makes for educators in my schools! The trainings, resources, and support take a lot of weight off their shoulders and give them new tools to use in the classroom. I think it helps them feel more confident and supported, which really shows in how they show up for their students. :)

2025-09-06 21:09:33 UTC

Many Ohio teachers have applied for (and received) funding for professional development trainings and travel, as well as funding for read across America initiatives to install things such as a book vending machine for free to students!

gmitsdarfer22 — 2025-09-06 21:09:46 UTC

My school recently merged with two other universities turning my in-person classes into online classes. I will be graduating form an in-person university without a single in-person education class, so the lessons taught at union conferences and through union professional development and resources have supplemented the change in my education program allowing me to be a better educator for my students, whether I am using my Secondary English Language Arts cert or my special Education cert!

2025-09-06 21:10:16 UTC

I think educators have been positively impacted by the resources of our union. Education is constantly evolving and by the union providing educators with the resources, trainings, and support, allows them to be the best teachers they can be for their students.

jbailey318 — 2025-09-06 21:10:18 UTC

Learning about the NEA’s history really opened my eyes. It’s wild to see how teachers have come together over the years to fight for things like fair pay, better schools, and equal opportunities for all kids. It makes me realize being a teacher isn’t just about lesson plans—it’s about speaking up for what’s right and having each other’s backs. As a future educator, I want to carry that same energy into my own classroom and community.

2025-09-06 21:10:20 UTC

In my hometown, they recently struggled with the school budget. Through the support of our state union, CEA, they were able to get teachers together and rally to fight for a better budget that would not result in more than 60 teachers and arts programs being cut.

2025-09-06 21:10:23 UTC

I had high school English teachers who were committed to teaching a diverse curriculum despite ongoing book bans. One advocated for replacing To Kill a Mockingbird with I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings to cover similar content but expose students to a Black author's perspective. I'm sure this teacher had knowledge from union trainings and knowledge that the union would have his back if he was challenged.

2025-09-06 21:10:35 UTC

Educators know their rights and know that the union will support them whenever needed, for example, if their class size is over the limit. I also think that it helps teachers feel confident to teach the truth and advocate for all of their students to receive the education they deserve, plus giving them the tools to do so.

2025-09-06 21:10:44 UTC

That learning and providing equity for all, is an ongoing journey that requires flexibility, unlearning, and collaboration.

2025-09-06 21:10:51 UTC

NEA’s legacy of advocating for equity, public education, and teacher empowerment has shaped many of the spaces I have learned in — even if I didn’t always realize it. From diverse curricula to inclusive classrooms, the values NEA has championed have directly impacted my educational journey and helped shape the kind of educator I aspire to be.

hannahleerake — 2025-09-06 21:10:53 UTC

We can learn from our union’s history that real change happens when educators come together with a shared purpose. Every gain we’ve made, whether fair pay, better working conditions, or stronger rights, came from people who refused to stand alone. As a state leader, that reminds me that I’m part of a legacy bigger than myself. It pushes me to keep organizing, amplifying voices, and carrying that same spirit of persistence forward for the next generation.

2025-09-06 21:11:38 UTC

President Pringle repeated it so many times at this year's RA: When we know better, we do better. We have learned how to organize to make change, how to keep making demands until we are satisfied, and how to uplift all members of our communities.

2025-09-06 21:12:04 UTC

As a member of the K-12 public school system, I was educated alongside my peers who came from different backgrounds and cultures. We were not segregated by race, which is thanks to the NEA advocating during the Civil Rights Movement.

hannahleerake — 2025-09-06 21:12:20 UTC

NEA’s history has overlapped with my own schooling through things like Read Across America. I remember celebrating it every year as a kid, getting excited about books, guest readers coming in, and feeling like reading was a big deal. Looking back, that was NEA’s influence right in my own classroom, and it helped spark the love of reading I carry with me today!

2025-09-06 21:12:29 UTC

During Middle School and High School I volunteered in Read Across America and read to elementary students.

2025-09-06 21:12:32 UTC

When we learn about our history, we see how far we have come and recognize the power we have as a union. But that does not mean we are done yet. We will still keep fighting, and we know we are a powerful union because of what we have accomplished.

2025-09-06 21:12:38 UTC

Just looking back and knowing the progress the union has made to present-day.

2025-09-06 21:12:39 UTC

I believe the union has helped my local schools by giving educators better working conditions. As a lower socioeconomic area in Appalachia Ohio, resources are constantly limited and the bargaining of the union has helped to ensure teachers and staff are able to do their jobs effectively with what they need!

2025-09-06 21:12:45 UTC

We can learn how important it is to speak up and work as a group to make our world a more diverse and equitable place for us to teach in and for our students to learn from. Whether it was fighting for educator pension, desegregated schools/affiliations, or diverse and inclusive literature, we see the impacts of collaboration and should continue to participate in these opportunities.

2025-09-06 21:12:56 UTC

Having the AE community on campus is such a plus to my college experience. The conferences, events, and time discussing has and will continue to be so beneficial!

2025-09-06 21:13:00 UTC

Educators in my schools have been deeply impacted by union-led resources and trainings, whether it was professional development that improved classroom instruction, or union support during contract negotiations that ensured fair working conditions. That kind of support creates stability, and stability creates better outcomes for students.

2025-09-06 21:13:19 UTC

It is because of the work done by our union, with its outstanding advocacy and organizing, that local districts are consistently challenged by our community whenever they consider shutting down one of our public schools!

2025-09-06 21:14:52 UTC

1947 Mendez V Westminster segregation in public schools of Mexican American children (family vs the district in Santa Ana Ca)

2025-09-06 22:28:56 UTC

I really appreciated conversation about not making assumptions about AEs due to what type of campus they are coming from!

gmitsdarfer22 — 2025-09-06 22:30:05 UTC

It was amazing to see how a lot of us, despite the type of university we attend, have many similar struggles and could adapt strategies to apply across the board!

2025-09-06 22:30:29 UTC

This year, I will try the following engagement strategies:

small crafts
marketing AE as something that extends post graduation
utilizing committee chairs & groups
member input for events & activities

2025-09-06 22:30:34 UTC

Despite our diverse campus structures, connection was a key point brought up (one on ones, leadership identification, offering supports, etc.)

hannahleerake — 2025-09-06 22:30:39 UTC

I absolutely loved learning about the different experiences! It was really amazing to me that we have people from only online colleges getting involved in the AE program.

2025-09-06 22:31:17 UTC

One thing that stood out to me was the discussion of "suitcase schools" such as smaller schools/community colleges. I recognize that this must make it difficult to reach members but Shantae talked about how they're doing some wonderful work so I enjoyed hearing a different perspective about the AE program and hope to get some community college chapters in CT (we've been trying but have not succeeded as of yet).

2025-09-06 22:31:45 UTC

I hope to try to get community colleges in CT engaged and know about the resources being an AE member offers.

hannahleerake — 2025-09-06 22:32:51 UTC

This year I am going to focus on

Never shutting up about our AE program
Engaging my general members more
having lots of low stakes events or activites for members to engage in (treating my chapter like a buffet, you pick and choose what you want/can handle)
Uplifting and fostering leadership in members and making sure they know they are doing a good job!

kiahjr0331 — 2025-09-06 22:33:12 UTC

Connecting with branch campuses and online universities through virtual resources and retreats.

2025-09-06 22:33:21 UTC

No matter the spaces, the power of our story, as members and just as people, was consistently elevated. Who we are and what we want to accomplish in this world cannot be sidelined if we want to grow our union!

2025-09-06 22:33:55 UTC

Being creative, innovative and intentional with virtual convenings. Allowing space to engage and mobilize online and non-traditional students who don't have the capacity or resources to engage in in-person and on-campus activities.

2025-09-06 22:34:03 UTC

Regional events (virtual and in person) to better engage all members (community colleges, online, on campus, commuters, etc .)

Highlighting that belonging to our union goes beyond college at tabling and chapter events

Informing our members and leaders on union history (merges)

2025-09-06 22:34:22 UTC

Being even more intentional with conversations, our time is the most valuable resource we have!

2025-09-06 22:34:44 UTC

One of the key things that stood out to me was the incredible depth and diversity of knowledge shared across the breakout room. Hearing from leaders representing the various states, each bringing forward dynamic insights and resources, really broadened my perspective. Many of the tools and strategies they shared weren't previously on my radar, and I left the conversation with new ideas I am eager to explore and share. The level of engagement and commitment to collective growth was truly inspiring!

jbailey318 — 2025-09-06 22:57:46 UTC

Use a virtual/in-person mix: regional events, online game nights, and hybrid meetings to reach commuters, online students, and multiple campuses at once.
Be more intentional about including members not on campus and ask for their input (What do they need?)
Opportunities for connection and a space to share resources with each other (groupme, Google Drive)

hannahleerake — 2025-09-07 20:50:15 UTC

In our union, distributed leadership matters because no one person can (or should) carry everything. Sharing leadership lets each officer and member lean into their strengths, gives everyone a voice in shaping our chapter, and makes the work more sustainable. It also helps grow future leaders. When people get real responsibility, they build the skills and confidence to step up next time.

2025-09-07 20:50:27 UTC

Framing the change to distributive leadership as rather, a shift in the distribution of labor, and letting the responsibly and leadership shifts to follow

2025-09-07 20:51:07 UTC

pull up a chair to tables you weren't invited to, ask the uncomfortable questions, reflect on whose perspective is missing and voluntell them to show up!!

2025-09-07 20:51:08 UTC

Distributed leadership is important because it recognizes that leadership is not about one person at the top, but about empowering many people at every level to contribute their strengths, voice, and expertise. When leadership is shared, we build collective capacity, foster a sense of ownership, and create more resilient, inclusive organizations.

In the context of education and advocacy, distributed leadership helps ensure that decisions are informed by those closest to the work—students, educators, chapter leaders, and community members. It also helps avoid burnout and gatekeeping by making leadership more sustainable and equitable. Ultimately, it’s about building systems where power is shared, not hoarded—and where leadership reflects the diversity of the people we serve.

2025-09-07 20:51:23 UTC

Distributed leadership is important because it allows for collaboration among leaders that in turn, creates a positive community within our union.

2025-09-07 20:52:40 UTC

Emma Pekkarinen

Distributed leadership is important because it allows for everyone to have a stake in the organization. Further, it is important because distributed leadership creates a more balanced power dynamic where everyone has a voice and seat at the table, rather than one person holding all of the power. This type of leadership is also a more engaging and equitable form of leadership because it distributes power to everyone.

2025-09-07 20:52:55 UTC

Being politically aware and discussing politics is important as educators, because education IS political! Our students, peers, communities, and ourselves, are all impacted by politics so having discussions can really help break down barriers, and stop misinformation. We can make informed and intentional actions, when we know the “why” behind it.

hannahleerake — 2025-09-07 20:52:55 UTC

forming committees with real decision-making power, and making sure projects aren’t tied to just one officer

clear communication, trust, and letting people take ownership of pieces of the work

hannahlspinner — 2025-09-07 20:55:13 UTC

It's important because it allows for members to recognize their leadership potential and so that everyone can have a stake in the process

2025-09-07 20:55:40 UTC

It’s also important to demystify processes—when people understand how decisions are made, they’re more empowered to participate in them. Sharing structures doesn’t always mean starting from scratch; it often means opening doors within what already exists, building trust, and being willing to give up control in service of collective leadership

2025-09-07 20:56:15 UTC

It ensures everyone within our organization has a stake in it and feels valued. Not only strengthens our union in its current form, but builds and prepares for the future with all new leaders.

2025-09-07 20:58:21 UTC

I believe that we can allow for more shared leadership by first being self-aware. Understanding our own position and if we have taken on too much power is important to recognize. I believe that we can change current structures to allow for more shared leadership by inviting people along and to share our positions with others. By encouraging others to be leaders and empower them with the confidence and tools to do so. I would not have run for a leadership position if someone did not encourage me, so I feel it is vital to always try to pass on opportunities to others.

jbailey318 — 2025-09-07 21:08:30 UTC

Distributed leadership is important because it takes the weight off one person and turns leadership into a shared effort. For me, it feels less like a top-down approach and more like a team where everyone’s ideas and strengths matter. When leadership is spread out, people feel valued and trusted, and that sense of ownership motivates everyone to contribute their best. Personally, I’ve seen and experienced how one person trying to do everything can lead to burnout and missed opportunities. But when leadership is shared, the group can support each other, bring different perspectives to the table, and keep things moving even when one person needs to step back. It makes the work feel more collaborative, and the successes feel like something we truly built together.

jbailey318 — 2025-09-07 21:14:17 UTC

For me, I think changing current structures to allow for more shared leadership starts with trust and letting go of the idea that one person has to carry everything. I’ve seen how easy it is for leadership to fall on just a few people, and it can leave others feeling like they’re only there to follow instructions instead of shaping the direction. I’d like to see more opportunities for everyone to take ownership in ways that fit their strengths (like rotating who leads certain projects, or having small groups work on specific goals so decisions don’t always have to go through the same people). I think it would also help if information and resources were shared openly so anyone who wants to step up feels prepared and supported. One change would be creating spaces where everyone’s ideas aren’t just heard but actually acted on. When people see their contributions making a real impact, they’re more likely to lead with confidence.

jbailey318 — 2025-09-07 21:18:23 UTC

I think educators need to talk about politics because so many of the decisions that affect our students, our schools, and even our own classrooms come from political choices. Things like funding, curriculum standards, teacher pay, and even what books we can have on our shelves are decided by people who often aren’t in classrooms every day. If we stay silent, then those decisions get made without our voices or our students’ needs being heard. I’ve realized that talking about politics doesn’t mean arguing or pushing one opinion. It means standing up for our students and our profession. When we speak up, we help shape a system that better supports learning and gives every child a fair chance. And honestly, if we don’t share what we see and experience every day, who will?

hannahlspinner — 2025-09-07 21:18:28 UTC

Like Hannah summarized, talking about politics is crucial because it affects everything we do and everything we have. To build off of this, talking about politics makes educators realize this. In my experience, many educators feel that the locus of control is outside of themselves; however, if we engage educators in those conversations and encourage them to be change makers, we may see things start to change.

hannahleerake — 2025-09-07 21:19:40 UTC

I come from a very red school, so I think about this ALL THE TIME. In my first couple of months as president of my chapter, I danced around it, never wanting to upset a member by getting into politics. Post this past election, I am very vocal. I try to center it around education as much as I can and always bring it back to our students, classrooms, or even ourselves (student teacher stipends, fair pay). I think the biggest thing is educating even our AE members about how much politics shapes our careers.

2025-09-07 21:20:32 UTC

As educators we need to talk about politics because politics affects our classrooms, us as educators, and our students. Public education is and always has been a political issues and as educators we have to stay informed and advocate for public education so our students get the education that they deserve. I also think that as educators we cannot only focus on public education issues but every issue in politics because it intersects with education. For example, an issue like lack of affordable housing affects our students who may come to school without a stable housing situation. Overall, politics is ingrained into our classrooms, schools, and communities and as educators we have a responsibility to be advocates for our profession and our students so that they get the resources and quality education that is their right.

2025-09-07 21:20:43 UTC

Remaining Politically ambivalent or neutral leaves you left behind by the system entirely

hannahleerake — 2025-09-07 21:21:58 UTC

Like we just talked about, politics or an elected or appointed figure shapes so much of our lives as educators. We cannot just shut our doors and teach our content. We need to be knowledgeable and aware of what is happening that can affect the things in our schools, our students, or ourselves. Being open and encouraging these conversations can open people's eyes to things they might not have known or thought about.

hannahlspinner — 2025-09-07 21:22:02 UTC

We need to make it relevant to them. We need to empower them to feel that they have a space in the conversation and in the world to make a difference. It's important that we emphasize that we have power no matter whether people see it or not. Making the conversation relevant to AEs is important, too - maybe they care most about paid student teaching or racial and social justice or lower class sizes because of their own experiences. No matter what, we need to find their motivators to be involved in political action. Even just talking to them about updates regarding statewide/national legislation and the like can teach them about things that they didn't realize were happening.

2025-09-07 21:22:23 UTC

Being candid with our members that our profession is political is one way to start. Every part of our profession is impacted by politics like Hannah said, and getting away from the idea that anyone can just "close their door and teach" and won't be impacted by politics can open the conversation with members who might not feel comfortable talking politics. Meeting members where they are with their political action is important as well, giving opportunities to become educated and not shamed for being unaware or miseducated on topics.

jbailey318 — 2025-09-07 21:22:24 UTC

’ve learned that talking with our AE members about politics has to start with connection, not confrontation. A lot of us come into education because we love kids and want to teach, not because we feel confident about policy or laws. So, I try to make it personal and real. Instead of jumping into political terms, I share how certain laws or decisions have impacted me as a future teacher or will affect me and my future classroom. I also think it helps to focus on what we all care about: our students, our profession, and the kind of schools we want to work in. When we frame politics as advocacy for better pay, safer schools, or resources for kids who need them, it stops feeling like a debate and starts feeling like a shared responsibility. In my opinion, the goal is to create a space where people can ask questions, share experiences, and see how speaking up (whether at a school board meeting or by emailing a legislator) is part of being an educator who cares about their students and community.

2025-09-07 21:22:25 UTC

center them and their students! young people and the children of our country will pay the consequences of every piece of legislation that is passed (or not). politics impact us more than anyone else. don't instill fear but rather motivate them to get involved and take preventative action because it will impact THEM & their STUDENTS! ask yourself "what about the children?" every single time!!!!

2025-09-07 21:22:47 UTC

Everything is political, even outside the field of education. People are impacted by politics, and because we work with people, we therefore have a responsibility to understand what is effecting the lives of the humans within our spaces. Additionally, I believe we have a moral obligation to protect and advocate for, and stuggle alongside each other, and especially our most vulnerable.

2025-09-07 21:24:01 UTC

In my local myself and my co-political action chair are the ones who bring up political issue and plan events where AEs can learn and take action on political issues. I think that many AEs may feel overwhelmed about politics and feel that they do not have any control or power in making a change. I hope that if we continue to educate our members and meet them where they are at we can build our members' confidence in their role as advocates. This is something that I want to work on and I would love any advice or help when it comes to bringing up political issues.

2025-09-07 22:37:53 UTC

It means standing with communities, not just on the picket line, but in the fight for immigrant rights, housing justice, education equity, and accountability.

It means fighting not only for fair wages, safe working conditions, and professional respect, but also for the dignity, humanity, and liberation of all our members—especially those who have been historically excluded, silenced, or marginalized.

2025-09-07 22:40:29 UTC

The labor movement—especially in education, has the power and responsibility to go beyond contract negotiations and fight for the whole child, the whole family, and the whole community.

As educators, we are uniquely positioned to see firsthand how systemic inequities directly impact our students' ability to thrive.

2025-09-07 22:42:25 UTC

As a collective body, we are stronger together to represent the voices of those who may get lost in the crowd!