As an educator, you play a pivotal role in the academic and personal development of your students. A crucial step in setting your students up for success begins by partnering with parents to ensure their children receive the best education possible. By working together, you can create a supportive environment that enhances student learning and […]
With the school year behind you and summer vacation in full swing, it’s time to think about how to recharge and take care of yourself. Teaching is an incredibly rewarding career, but it can also be draining. Here are some strategies to help you prevent burnout, rejuvenate, and make the most of your well-deserved break. […]
The question of whether teachers can opt out of unions has gained significant attention in recent years, especially among politically conservative educators who may disagree with their union’s political activities or policies. The rules and options surrounding union membership for teachers have been shaped by state laws, court rulings, and union policies. Here, we will […]
Teachers unions play a role in advocating for educators’ rights, benefits, and working conditions. However, the cost of union membership can be significant, raising questions about its financial impact on teachers’ salaries. This article explores whether these benefits justify their cost and offers potential alternatives if you ultimately decide union membership is not right for […]
In the heart of every educator lies a deep commitment to fostering environments that not only educate but also empower students to become curious, engaged learners. However, navigating the waters of curriculum changes can sometimes feel like sailing against the wind, especially when these shifts impact your autonomy and sense of professionalism in the classroom. […]
In today’s educational landscape, standardized testing remains a pivotal component, serving as a barometer for student achievement, teacher effectiveness, and school performance. However, the influence of these tests extends far beyond mere metrics, deeply impacting curriculum choices, teaching methodologies, and ultimately, the classroom experience for both you and your students. As these assessments mold the […]
The journey of adapting to curriculum changes is a testament to the resilience, adaptability, and innovation inherent in educators. These shifts go beyond mere content updates; they encapsulate the entire ecosystem of teaching methodologies, technological integration, and the delicate balance of educational objectives. As we delve into this topic, remember: your voice and experience are […]
In the landmark 2018 Supreme Court ruling known as the Janus decision, public sector employees across the United States were handed back control over their paychecks and political voice. The ruling fundamentally altered the landscape of public sector unions, establishing that non-union members cannot be compelled to pay union dues or fees as a condition […]
For many public employees, including public school teachers, being part of a union is a significant aspect of their professional lives. Unions advocate for their members’ rights, negotiate collective bargaining agreements, and work towards improving workplace conditions. However, there might come a time when a member considers leaving the union, possibly due to personal beliefs, […]
Editor’s note: This post originally appeared on theSunlight Policy Center of New Jersey blog. Kudos to the Star-Ledger Editorial Board for their scathing criticism of the excessive pay for NJEA leadership. The Star-Ledger continues to publish well researched, courageous and truthful editorials about the facts of the NJEA leadership’s compensation. The Board drew extensively from […]