GENERAL SESSIONS
“Navigating Robert’s Rules of Order” - Unpacking the Trunk
Participants will learn to make and pass motions with confidence and begin to master parliamentary jargons.
Presenter: Shronda Kyi Wise-Schimpf
From a seat at the table ….to becoming the table! (March 1, ONLY)
The 2nd NJEA Secretary-Treasurer Debate: The debate will ask each candidate questions about the NJEA budget from a members of color perspective.
Presenter: Sundjata Sekou
Chat and Chill – Secretary-Treasurer Sit Down (May3 ONLY)
At the Chat & Chill, members of color will pose questions and create benchmarks for the newly elected secretary-treasurer to meet the demands of members of color.
Presenter: Sundjata Sekou
WORKSHOP SESSIONS
Using Your Voice at the National Level
Learn about the NEA Representative Assembly (RA), the guiding documents of your national union, and how you can submit proposals to strengthen the work of the NEA. Participants will have a chance to practice writing New Business Items as potential delegates to the 2025 NEA RA.
Presenter: Melissa Tomlinson
XYZs of Retirement
This workshop will go over everything you need to know prior to retiring including MBOS (Member Benefits On-line System), pension options, life insurance, retiree health benefits and how to navigate the Division of Pensions & Benefit website.
Presenters: Sarah Favinger and Michael Salerno
Politics, Perception, and our Profession
This workshop will focus on our identity and journey throughout the political realm. How did our upbringing shape our beliefs, thoughts, feelings, and actions within the political world and how do we unpack how our beliefs around politics have affected our involvement or lack of involvement in politics.
Presenter: Eloy Delgado
When Life Throws You Curveballs
This workshop is designed to educate members on what happens when unexpected things happen in life. Whether it is birth, death, accident, trauma, etc., there is very important information that members need to know for themselves and their family members through the NJ Division of Pension & Benefits, NEA/NJEA Member Benefits Division and Collective Bargaining.
Presenters: Caroline Tatum, Fatimah Hayes-Baker, and Jessica Denney
Our Struggle, Our Impact: The Journey of Educators of Color in America
Our Struggle, Our Impact: The Journey of Educators of Color in America, is an in-depth workshop designed to explore the rich history, challenges, and triumphs of Educators of Color. We will delve into the historical struggles of educators of color, the crucial role of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs) in teacher training, and the influence of Black Teachers Unions. We will also examine the pervasive challenges educators of color continue to face, including systemic racism in both educational environments and curriculum, inequities in teacher preparation, and discriminatory legislative actions that have and may continue to disproportionately affected teachers of color. Educators of Color have played a pivotal role and have an enduring legacy in shaping America’s educational landscape.
Through interactive activities, discussions and critical analysis, this workshop empowers educators to advocate for and support Educators of Color, recognizing their vital role in fostering educational equity and inclusion for all students. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the structural barriers facing Educators of Color today and a renewed sense of urgency for creating more inclusive, supportive school communities.
Presenters: Aaryenne White, Niurka Coy-Bush, Janice Williams, Carmen Torres, Naomi Johnson-Lafleur
She Leads: Navigating Your Role Within our Union
A leader is someone who has the ability to guide and motivate people to work together towards a common goal. You don't have to be in an elected position, such as local president, to be a leader. This workshop is intended to empower women to tap into their natural talents and abilities to explore where they may best serve within their school community or at the local, county, state or national levels of our union.
Presenter: Angel Boose
Crafting Your Narrative: Unlocking the Power of Personal Storytelling
In this engaging presentation, participants will explore the art of personal storytelling as a powerful tool for connection and inspiration. Participants will learn how to identify and articulate their unique narratives, transforming personal experiences into impactful stories that resonate with students, colleagues, and the broader school community. By the end of the session members will feel empowered to share their stories in ways that foster empathy, build support, and build relationships.
Presenter: Jeremias Salinas
Healing-Centered Engagement: Empowering Educators through CARMA
Join us for an enlightening workshop designed for educators seeking to deepen their understanding of healing-centered engagement, inspired by Dr. Shawn Ginwright’s groundbreaking CARMA research. This interactive session will explore its core principles - culture, agency, meaning, and aspiration - empowering educators to create nurturing and inclusive environments that support student’s emotional and psychological well-being.
Presenter: Amanda Adams