After nearly two years of global upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, New Jersey’s public schools, and the students and educators who have made them the best in the nation, are beginning a new school year.
This is also the start of a new era in NJEA leadership: for the first time, we have two officers of color. We are proud to follow in the footsteps of Judi Owens, NJEA’s first, and until now only, African American president. I am honored to helm this new team, which includes Vice President Steve Beatty and Secretary-Treasurer Petal Robertson, as they bring their unique talents to serve NJEA members and our students.
The start of a new school year is always special, but I think that we are all sighing with relief at the thought of being back together in person. We accomplished amazing things during the trials of the pandemic, and our students learned vital new skills that will serve them well in their lives, but educators will tell you that we work in public schools because of our students. We need to see them and connect with them in person, so long as it is healthy and safe for them and us.
I want to thank you for all you have done to see your students through this time. We have suffered losses; we have struggled. We have had moments of challenge and moments of victory during this time, but we have made it through and we have derived strength from our unity and collaboration. Despite everything, we remain hopeful and committed to our students as people and as learners.
For those of you just beginning your career in education, welcome! You are joining a winning team in New Jersey and we look forward to learning from you and bringing you into our union as fully engaged members, actively advocating for our students and members.
Let’s continue to do great things together.
In solidarity,
Sean