Student IEA Political Action
The National Education Association is the largest professional employee organization in the United States and works to advance public education and support public educators. The Association began in 1857 when 100 educators banded together to create one strong voice for both educators and their students. Today, the NEA acts as an important political force in educational politics and constantly works for the betterment of teachers and their students throughout the nation.
What is the National Education Association?
What is the Illinois Education Association?
The Illinois Education Association is a state affiliate of the National Education Association. IEA represents student and teacher needs on the state-level and oversees a retired program, a student program and the regional associations. President of the IEA, Kathi Griffin, works alongside her executive board as well as several committees to oversee the different issues within public education and educational politics. The IEA came about in 1853 and joined the NEA in 1857 upon its founding. It’s official mission is "The Illinois Education Association-NEA's mission is to effect excellence and equity in public education and to be THE advocacy organization for all public education employees."
What is the Student IEA?
Where do you fit in as a student? Many colleges and universities across the state have their own branches of Student IEA. Through the student program, IEA hopes to prepare future teachers for their crucial careers through introducing them to the three pillars of teacher quality, community outreach and political action. The program offers two state-wide conferences throughout the year to advance the three pillars along with advisory boards and community engagement projects to connect members with their local and state-wide education communities. At local chapter meetings, leadership is encouraged to educate their members about the importance of politics in education, how to be a great teacher and provide opportunities for service projects throughout the year. There is also a Student State Board elected to be liaisons between the IEA and the local student chapters and to facilitate the advancement of the three pillars.
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