NEA President Becky Pringle Advocates for Social Justice in Education

National Education Association leader visits Chicago area school to celebrate funding referendum victory and address challenges in education

Introduction: Becky Pringle, the President of the National Education Association (NEA), the largest labor union in the United States, recently visited Pennoyer Elementary School in Norridge, near Chicago. The school had finally succeeded in passing a funding referendum after six failed attempts. Pringle's visit aimed to celebrate this victory and highlight the importance of persistence in shaping education policy. As the leader of the NEA, Pringle is determined to transform the union into a force for social justice, advocating for equitable education opportunities for all students.

Shaping Education Policy for Social Justice

Pringle sees the NEA as a powerful influencer in shaping federal education policy. Her mission is to reclaim public education as a common good and the foundation of democracy. However, she believes that the transformation cannot stop there. Pringle envisions a racially and socially just education system that prepares every student, regardless of their background, for success. She plans to take the example of Pennoyer Elementary School's persistence in securing funding back to Washington as she works towards this goal.

Combating the Politicization of Education

Pringle identifies the creeping influence of politics in classrooms as a threat to education. Across the country, right-wing politicians have been leading efforts to ban books, language, and topics related to race and LGBTQ+ issues. Pringle criticizes these attempts, emphasizing that politicians and pundits who politicize schools and demonize teachers are not focused on the needs of students or the desires of parents. She stresses the importance of creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment that addresses the diverse needs of all students.

The Crisis in Education: Teacher Shortages

Pringle acknowledges the crisis in education caused by teacher shortages. Low pay, high demands, and a lack of respect for educators have contributed to this problem. A recent survey conducted by Brown University estimated that there are at least 36,000 teacher vacancies in the United States, with over 163,000 positions being held by underqualified teachers. Pringle believes that addressing this crisis requires increasing teacher pay and ensuring proper school staffing, including the presence of mental health professionals.

A Wider Context: Disrespect Across Industries

Pringle contextualizes the challenges in education within a broader landscape of worker dissatisfaction. She highlights that workers in various industries, from UPS to Starbucks, and from auto workers to Hollywood writers and actors, are feeling disrespected and undervalued. This sentiment has led to strikes or strike threats in multiple sectors. Pringle suggests that addressing the crisis in education is part of a larger effort to improve working conditions and restore dignity to all workers. Conclusion: Becky Pringle, the President of the NEA, is dedicated to advocating for social justice in education. Her visit to Pennoyer Elementary School in Norridge, Illinois, celebrated the school's victory in securing funding after multiple failed attempts. Pringle aims to leverage this example of persistence to shape education policy at the national level. She emphasizes the need to combat the politicization of education, increase teacher pay, and address teacher shortages. Pringle's vision extends beyond education, recognizing the broader challenges faced by workers across industries. By addressing these issues, she believes that society can create a more equitable and just future for all.