The National Education Association (NEA), the largest teachers' union in the United States, is facing significant challenges, marked by declining membership and a disconnect with parents. A recent report reveals a substantial drop in membership, with projections indicating further losses. Perhaps even more telling is the failure of the NEA's "community ally" program, designed to engage parents and other non-educators. The anticipated enrollment of thousands of community allies has fallen drastically short, with only a small fraction of the expected number participating.
This disconnect likely stems from the NEA's embrace of controversial ideologies, including critical race theory and radical gender ideology, while simultaneously labeling parent groups like Moms for Liberty as threats to public schools. Recent legislative changes in states like Florida and Arkansas, which prevent unions from automatically deducting dues from teachers' paychecks, have further threatened the NEA's financial stability and membership numbers. The union acknowledges the potential "devastating and immediate" impact of these changes.
Despite these setbacks, the NEA continues to exert political influence, endorsing President Biden and Vice President Harris for re-election and allocating substantial funds for political campaigning and lobbying. However, the growing momentum of parent-led organizations and supportive political leaders suggests a shift in the balance of power. The rise of school choice initiatives and calls for increased academic transparency indicate a growing demand for parental involvement and accountability in education. While the struggle for educational reform continues, the increasing engagement of parents and the challenges faced by teachers' unions offer a promising outlook for those advocating for student-centered education.
