Idaho loses its 'Teacher of the Year' after right-wing parents chase her out of state

[struggle4progress]

30. My union has supported and inspired my journey

By: Karen Lauritzen NEA MEMBER
Published: 01/27/2023

I once taught at a charter school in Arizona. They didn’t have a union, and it was a terrible experience. I resolved that I would never be without a union again ...

My union has supported and inspired my journey in advocacy, which is why I now travel three hundred and eighty-six miles each way from my home in Post Falls, Idaho, to the Statehouse, in Boise, to lobby my lawmakers. I know it’s far, but it’s worth it to advocate for my students.

To connect with lawmakers, I share a story from my school, and then stay in touch with them throughout the legislative session. I draw on stories from my 20-plus years in the classroom ...

Some legislators aren’t interested in what I have to say. I meet with them anyway. I really want them to know what’s happening in our classrooms. Otherwise, they may be getting their information from one source, and it may be bad information. That, to me, is the heart of advocacy ...

https://www.nea.org/professional-excellence/leadership-development/member-spotlight/my-union-has-supported-and-inspired-my-journey-advocacy