The National Education Association (NEA), the nation’s largest teachers union, is facing a strike from its own staff union, the National Education Association Staff Organization (NEASO). This internal conflict comes amidst a backdrop of ongoing teacher strikes across the country, leaving students without education and parents frustrated. The NEASO accuses the NEA of “wage theft,” outsourcing, and abandoning union values. Meanwhile, the NEA defends its actions and criticizes the NEASO for spreading misinformation. The situation highlights the internal power struggles within the NEA and the broader impact of union actions on students and their education.
The controversy began with NEA President Becky Pringle’s fervent speech at the union’s annual meeting in Philadelphia on July 4. Pringle, known for her passionate advocacy, called on NEA delegates to “win all the things,” including all the power, all the elections, and all the progressive demands desired by radical union activists. However, her focus on “winning” appeared to overshadow concerns about the negative consequences of teacher strikes, such as widening achievement gaps, learning loss, and chronic absenteeism.
Despite the ongoing issues facing students, Pringle emphasized the NEA’s commitment to fighting against “vouchers,” celebrating union strikes that closed schools, and advocating for keeping sexually explicit books in schools. She also pledged support for President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, whom she called the strongest champions “of the labor movement in the history of our nation.”
In a surprising twist, Pringle’s own staff union launched a strike shortly after her speech, effectively shutting down the NEA’s annual gathering. The NEASO cited the NEA’s failure to provide information about outsourcing and accused the union of “wage theft.” The NEA responded by expressing concern about “misinformation” being shared regarding contract negotiations.
While this internal conflict plays out, students across the country continue to bear the brunt of union actions. Parents in cities like Portland, Oregon, Youngstown, Ohio, and Newton, Massachusetts have witnessed their children miss weeks of school due to prolonged teachers union strikes. The NEA has a history of advocating for lengthy strikes, often prioritizing its demands over the needs of students and families.
As the NEA’s staff union continues its strike and local teachers unions plan their own strike strategies, parents are encouraged to explore alternatives to traditional public schools. Fortunately, several states have implemented and expanded school choice programs in recent years, offering families greater autonomy and freedom from union-controlled systems.
This ongoing struggle highlights the complex and often contentious relationship between unions, education, and the needs of students. While unions have a role to play in advocating for teachers, their actions should not come at the expense of student learning and well-being. Parents and students deserve access to quality education without the disruption and disruption caused by frequent strikes. The time has come for a shift towards a more balanced and student-centered approach to education, one that prioritizes the needs of all stakeholders.
