Entries by Erica Mitchell

Health Savings Accounts: A Viable Option for Educators Amid Rising Healthcare Costs

As healthcare costs continue to rise, many teachers are considering Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) as a way to manage medical expenses while maximizing tax benefits. HSAs, which are available to individuals enrolled in high-deductible health plans (HDHPs), offer tax-free savings that can be used for qualified medical expenses. However, educators are weighing the potential advantages […]

Teachers Struggle to Support Student Mental Health as Crisis Grows

Educators across the country are grappling with an unprecedented rise in student mental health challenges, with anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues becoming more prevalent. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 40% of high school students reported experiencing persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness in 2021, the highest rate on […]

Supporting Student Mental Health in Your Classroom

You see it every day—students struggling with stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges that impact their learning. With limited time and resources, it’s easy to feel like there’s only so much you can do. But the truth is, even small moments of connection and understanding can make a lasting impact. In this article we explore the […]

Educators Grapple with AI’s Impact on Student Learning and Academic Integrity

The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into education is reshaping how students learn and complete assignments, sparking debate among educators about its impact on academic integrity and critical thinking. While AI-powered tools offer new opportunities for personalized learning, they also present significant challenges, particularly in detecting AI-generated work and ensuring students genuinely engage with […]

How Is AI Changing Student Learning—For Better or Worse?

Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how teachers and students operate both in and out of the classroom. While it has the potential to enhance learning, it also poses a significant challenge: students using AI to generate work they should be doing on their own. Unlike traditional plagiarism, AI-generated content is often original yet not truly […]

Are Health Savings Accounts A Smart Choice for Teachers?

As healthcare costs continue to rise, many teachers are exploring ways to manage medical expenses without straining their budgets. One option is a Health Savings Account (HSA), which offers tax advantages and flexibility in saving and spending on healthcare. But is an HSA the right choice for you? In this article, we’ll define HSAs, talk […]

Are You Overpaying for Health Insurance?

Health insurance is a critical safety net, but for many teachers, it might be costing more than it should. Rising premiums, hidden fees, and union-negotiated plans often leave you paying for coverage you don’t fully utilize. In this article, we’ll help you evaluate your current health plan and explore ways to save without sacrificing coverage. […]

Are You In Your Opt-Out Window?

Did you know that some states and some union contracts try to establish a limited time each year when you can leave your teachers’ union? For many educators, the union opt-out window is the easiest opportunity to make a change. Understanding this process is crucial for teachers who want to exercise their rights, save money, […]

Teacher Health Insurance: Practical Tips for Affordable Coverage

Health insurance is essential, but the costs can add up quickly. If you’ve ever wondered whether your current health insurance plan is truly the best fit for your budget, there are plenty of alternatives worth exploring. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at union-provided health insurance, alternative options that might better suit your […]

Teacher Liability Insurance: What You Need to Know

You work tirelessly to create a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment for your students. But no matter how much care you take, accidents happen, and conflicts or misinterpretations can occur. One moment, you’re focused on lesson plans and grading papers; the next, you’re dealing with the stress of a lawsuit over something unexpected. In a […]