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Hundreds of educators, parents, lawmakers, healthcare professionals, and others marched on the governor’s residence this weekend to demand a budget that provides the funding Connecticut’s children, families, communities, and working people deserve.

CEA President Jeff Leake says thank you to teachers for their tremendous efforts this school year.

“Students are facing a mental health crisis—a crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic—and we need to address it head-on, with funding to provide much-needed social emotional supports,” Bridgeport Education Association President Ana Batista told the crowd at a Recovery for All rally held outside the city’s Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services on April…

In his first formal address before a joint session of Congress, President Joe Biden reflected on the progress of our nation on the eve of his 100th day in office, outlining his plans for continued advances in education, social and environmental justice, health and safety, economic recovery, and more.

Teachers from all across the state will take part in a May Day march on the governor’s mansion this Saturday and are encouraging their colleagues to join them. Their message is clear: fund our schools, and fund our future.

The Connecticut State Department of Education released interim guidance for remote learning for the 2021-22 school year that ends the mandate to provide a voluntary remote learning option for all students, raises concerns about dual instruction, and stresses that in-person education is best for students.

Join a May 1 rally to demand that Governor Lamont’s budget invests in our future.

Two years ago, CEA and AFT CT partnered on an exciting program—TeachRock—that helps educators bring classroom lessons to life with music and the arts. Now, Governor Lamont and the State Department of Education have agreed to make Connecticut first in the nation to implement the program statewide.

We are saddened to learn that Phil Sylvestro, a very dedicated and active teacher in Wallingford for 35 years, passed away earlier this month. He was dedicated to his family, students, and colleagues, and a true friend throughout his life. He was a truly honest man for all.

Tens of thousands of teachers tuned in to hear Dr. Cardona’s vision for public education as well as ask questions about his plans for standardized tests, relief funding, and more.

Legislators yesterday heard testimony on a bill that would create the Connecticut Equitable Investment Fund and raise $1.14 billion in annual revenue to address education funding inequities and help the state meet the various needs of its communities.

While the jury delivered justice in its decision, that verdict alone won’t resolve decades of systemic racism in our nation.

With a new, two-year state budget set to be decided before the current legislative session ends, a vocal coalition continues to demand a plan that prioritizes public education, the public good, and an equitable recovery from the pandemic. Recovery for All, a coalition that includes CEA, organized a rally this weekend outside the Department of…

By now, every educator can tell the story of how the pandemic has upended teaching and learning. Economic gaps and inequities laid bare. The whiplash of school closures and reopenings fueled by outbreaks and quarantines. The constant toggling between remote and in-person students, a model that has left educators, students, and parents alike depleted.

Remember to check out the deals and discounts available from NEA Member Benefits when doing any spring shopping! Here are some highlighted deals and discounts for April.

Federal stimulus funds will be used to reconnect with K-12 students who were absent or disengaged during the 2020-2021 school year as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Connecticut’s own 2019 Teacher of the Year Sheena Graham was one of four public school educators from around the country interviewed on CBS This Morning about the ongoing challenges of teaching through a pandemic, the added pressures of standardized testing on students, and more.

Keep an eye on your mailbox for an important letter asking you to take action to end dual teaching.

Nearly half of all children and adolescents in the U.S. have experienced at least one type of childhood trauma. About one in every four will witness or experience a traumatic event before their fourth birthday. These are sobering statistics, made even worse by the collective trauma of the COVID pandemic. CEA’s Ethnic Minority Affairs Commission…

Pandemic learning has tried educators and students as never before, but teachers are finding this year has also taught them lessons they’ll use going forward.

A Glastonbury educator challenged the idea of “gains” when the state and towns cut education budgets during a meeting with his state representative.

Watch to find out why Danbury bilingual educator Luanelly Iglesias is speaking up for her students—and learn how you can join her.

CEA members call the CEA Legal Department’s Teachers and the Law workshop “helpful” and “eye-opening,” and especially now during the pandemic it’s critical for you to know your rights and responsibilities. 

Connecticut’s efforts to recruit and retain more educators of color are making progress thanks to a national program that’s now expanding to 14 school districts around Connecticut.

This Earth Day, Thursday, April 22, use these resources to overcome the challenges of teaching climate change and help students understand it is an issue of interest not only to scientists.

What would it mean to your school community if your school was fully funded? That’s the question educators who attended a Monday CEA Recovery for All meeting were asked to answer.

During the pandemic, arts are playing an even more critical role in helping children express themselves, connect with each other, process stress, and stay engaged in their virtual/hybrid/socially distanced learning environment.

As children across the country return to more in-person learning, experts caution that the stress of the pandemic might be showing up in unexpected ways, and that we need to appropriately support both children and teachers.

Vice President Kamala Harris arrived in New Haven this afternoon to discuss aspects of the American Rescue Plan aimed at addressing the needs of our nation’s children, particularly those living in poverty.

Join us for a statewide CEA Recovery for All Meeting to learn more about this educator-led campaign to fund our future–and what you can do to secure the funding your students need.

Teachers, students, parents, community members, and labor groups assembled March 24 with a clear message for Connecticut’s leaders: Let’s make Connecticut a place where all residents can thrive.

Sign a letter to the U.S. Department of Education to call for high stakes tests to be canceled during the pandemic.

Teachers, students, parents, community members, religious leaders, and labor organizations are holding a rally tomorrow in Danbury in support of a fair state budget that works for all residents.

“Increasing the diversity among our Connecticut teaching profession is crucial to the vitality, success, and the excellence of all of our schools,” CEA Vice President Tom Nicholas told legislators during a recent public hearing.

The CDC released new physical distancing guidelines that recommend three feet, rather than six feet, of distance between students in schools. Read the Board of Education Union Coalition response.

Many veteran Connecticut teachers are describing the 2020-21 school year as the hardest year they’ve ever faced. They attribute this partially to the stress of the pandemic and its toll on their students, but also to the impossibility of teaching students simultaneously online and in-person.

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Connecticut has taken the bold step of exposing the state’s inequities and identifying racism as a public health crisis. “The time is now to address this crisis,” CEA President Jeff Leake told legislators during a public hearing today.

Join a group of teachers as we read the book Onward: Cultivating Emotional Resilience in Educators and complete accompanying exercises—all materials will be provided free of charge.

Connecticut needs to be a place where all residents can thrive, which is why teachers, students, parents, community members, religious leaders, and labor organizations are holding a rally this Thursday in Danbury and giving testimony before the legislature’s Finance Committee today.

Speak up in support of increased education funding for students this Monday during a legislative hearing.

Essential workers have been busy on the frontlines keeping Connecticut running throughout the pandemic, yet when they’ve contracted COVID-19 on the job, they’ve frequently failed to receive the workers’ compensation benefits they deserve.

The American Rescue Plan includes more than $120 billion in aid for K-12 schools and will cut in half the number of children living below the poverty line.

CEA and educators spoke out in support of many provisions of House Bill 6557 An Act Concerning Social Emotional Learning during a hearing of the legislature’s Education Committee.

Even in Connecticut, the forces that have worked to undermine unions in other parts of the country are at work. State legislators are debating a new law that would provide much-needed support for unions.

Governor Lamont has named Charlene Russell-Tucker as Connecticut’s Acting Commissioner of Education after Miguel Cardona was sworn in as U.S. Secretary of Education earlier this week.

The feeling of relief and excitement was palpable for educators who received their COVID vaccine at Windsor High School.

On Miguel Cardona’s first full day as U.S. Secretary of Education the former educator was back in his hometown, welcoming Dr. Jill Biden to a Meriden elementary school.

In first- and second-grade classrooms across Bridgeport today, students experienced the joy of reading by watching a puppet show, hearing from a children’s author, and choosing a book of their very own to take home.

In a vote of 64 to 33, representing a large, bipartisan majority, the U.S. Senate today confirmed Miguel Cardona as U.S. Secretary of Education.

As February draws to a close, many schools are wrapping up Black History units, but East Hartford teacher Nicole Campbell says teachers need to be looking for ways to incorporate teaching about Black history and excellence into their lessons all year round.

Manchester teachers are just some of the many Connecticut teachers who have met virtually with their legislators recently to voice concerns about what they and their students are facing and ask the legislature to act.

Join us for the virtual Early Career Educator Conference taking place Mach 2 – 10 after school. Take one or more of the 10 sessions that cover a variety of topics from dyslexia to streamlining grading to helping students deal with anxiety.

The Biden administration has announced that states will have to administer federally required standardized assessments this year, despite the many challenges forced on schools by the pandemic. States, however, are encouraged to request waivers from the accountability provisions of federal law.

Because of your emails, ongoing CEA advocacy, the petition, and the CEA awareness campaign, CEA’s efforts to prioritize educators for vaccinations have been successful.

CEA President Jeff Leake recently published an op-ed in the CT Examiner and Journal Inquirer in response to a column by Chris Powell that compared educators to Germany under Hitler. 

As Connecticut’s COVID vaccine rollout continues, educators—who are eager for the safer in-person learning that a vaccine could afford—joined a candid conversation with state leaders and health experts about what to expect and when.

Vaccinate Educators Now! That’s the message of CEA’s new ad campaign launched today, featuring five Connecticut State Teachers of the Year calling on the state to vaccinate teachers and school staff now. The ad began running today on all of the state’s major network television stations as well as on digital media.

New CDC guidelines call for prioritizing teachers and school staff for vaccinations.

Join hundreds of Connecticut residents impacted by the COVID pandemic and demand a state budget that puts the needs of the people first. Show your support for a budget that tackles the extraordinary needs of this pandemic by participating in a Car Caravan Saturday, February 20 at noon in Hartford.

Our state’s budget should reflect our state’s priorities, but Governor Lamont’s proposed budget won’t support the recovery Connecticut needs, members of the Recovery for All Coalition said at a press conference today.

Twenty-seven states have begun vaccinating teachers, but Connecticut is not among them. Connecticut is not following CDC vaccine rollout guidance to prioritize teachers and instead has postponed vaccinating school staff.

If as a state we choose to prioritize full-time in-person learning, we also need to prioritize vaccinating educators. Teachers want to be in school with their students, but they shouldn’t have to risk their own health and safety and that of their families to do so.

Join CEA and AFT Connecticut, and support the effort to waive standardized testing by signing a petition.

After a debacle with vaccine distribution in Region 14, 97 percent of school staff voted in favor of a show of no confidence in Superintendent Joseph Olzacki and COVID Coordinator Mark Hartunian.

The governor has signed an executive order that requires local school districts to provide paid quarantine leave for public school educators and staff.

“We need to invest now, or we’re going to pay later,” Dr. Miguel Cardona told members of the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, when asked about funding safe school reopening in a hearing yesterday on his confirmation as U.S. Secretary of Education.

A week ahead of Governor Lamont’s budget address, a group of thirty state legislators announced their plan to help those who have been devastated by the pandemic and ensure a fair recovery for everyone in Connecticut.

School counselors are more essential than ever to support students through these difficult times. Read how three Connecticut school counselors’ jobs have changed during the pandemic.

CEA President Jeff Leake and AFT Connecticut President Jan Hochadel have requested that the federal requirement for testing be suspended for this school year.

Join hundreds of community members impacted by this emergency and demand a budget that puts the needs of the people first.

Nearly 7,000 teachers from around the country joined Dr. Anthony Fauci in a virtual fireside chat hosted by NEA and AFT.

A coalition of community, faith, and labor organizations committed to reducing income inequality sent a letter to Governor Lamont urging him to support an economic recovery that all Connecticut residents can share. 

When Darien schools opened in the fall, the district assured families and staff that it would be guided by health and safety metrics, but Darien teachers say the district has departed from that path.

Join a special webinar discussion with Dr. Anthony Fauci about the current state of the coronavirus pandemic and its impact on public education this Thursday, January 28 from 6 – 7:00 p.m.

Learn more about your loan repayment and forgiveness options and how to manage your loans more effectively by registering for CEA’s free Degrees Not Debt webinar this Thursday.

Check out resources available from NEA to help you integrate Black History Month into your classroom.

As promised, on his first day in office President Joe Biden extended the moratorium on federal student loan payments to September 30, 2021. Learn more about your repayment options and how to manage your loans more effectively by registering for one of CEA’s free Degrees Not Debt webinars next Tuesday or Thursday.

“Over and over, I made a promise to you that when Joe was elected president you’d always have a seat at the table, and I meant it,” First Lady Dr. Jill Biden told teachers.

“This is America’s day. This is democracy’s day, a day of history and hope, of renewal and resolve,” President Joe Biden said in his inaugural address.

Governor Lamont today announced that teachers and other frontline workers will likely be able to schedule vaccinations in late February or early March along with other frontline workers and individuals with underlying medical conditions.

While the pandemic has presented many serious challenges and hardships to teaching and learning, teachers say there are some unexpected bright spots they don’t want to lose when schools are able to resume more normal operations. During a virtual presentation with author and award-winning education leader Dr. Peter Gamwell, teachers from Connecticut, North Carolina, and…

Most Connecticut service plaza workers earn less than minimum wage, often with no benefits or sick days, and many have suffered harassment as they organize for better working conditions and a union. Meanwhile, McDonald’s, Subway, Dunkin Donuts, and their Connecticut franchise owners pocket millions in profit and from government support. Join supporters this Monday, January…

Despite an unprecedented outpouring of support from the Region 14 community, the district has confirmed Counselor Kathy Green’s position at Nonnewaug High School will be cut effective Feb 1. Green is a respected and much-admired figure in the towns of Woodbury and Bethlehem who students and parents say has been instrumental in connecting students of…

Department of Public Health Commissioner Deidre Gifford said that the state will transition quickly to vaccinating group 1B as soon as vaccine appointments begin to open up.

In the aftermath of the attack on the Capitol in Washington, Connecticut teachers are having hard but important conversations with their students.

We can assure children that the majority of Americans are joining together to support justice and democracy and that the dangerous and unlawful people we saw in the nation’s capital will not be successful in hurting our country.

Because of the unusual nature of this year’s session, lawmakers will likely take up fewer issues than usual, but CEA leaders, staff, and members are committed to making their voices heard.

Awards and grants are given for best local association website and newsletter, outstanding teaching professionals and advocates, new public relations projects, best media coverage, and more.

Help students put in perspective Martin Luther King Jr.’s life, his impact on the Civil Rights Movement, and his significance to American culture and history.

The dramatic rise in the number of COVID-19 cases in Connecticut has prompted a growing number of public school superintendents to prioritize the safety of students, teachers, and staff by moving to all-distance learning through mid-January. We thank these superintendents for putting safety first, following the advice of health experts, and taking the wisest course…

You may already have received an important letter from CEA—if not, keep an eye on your mailbox for a letter explaining how you can help advocate on behalf of issues that impact your financial future and your working conditions.

When teachers pull together, the impossible becomes possible. Learn about the teacher advocacy that led to historic victories such as the Bridgeport teachers strike and Keep the Promise campaign, and how teacher advocacy is needed now more than ever.

You probably know many outstanding teachers who would qualify for the John McCormack CEA Award for Teaching Excellence. Here’s your chance to nominate one of them—or you can even nominate yourself!

This year has challenged us unlike any other that has come before it. Thank you for all you are doing to help our students and communities through this very difficult time.

Educators, parents, and lawmakers taking part in a virtual panel discussion organized by State Senator Tony Hwang agreed that getting students back into school buildings must be a priority—but when it will be safe to resume full in-person learning in schools across the state remains a big question.

With this nomination Biden and Harris have held true to their promise of appointing a public school educator with classroom experience who believes in public education and respects educators.

Make sure to check your mailbox in the coming days for an important letter from CEA asking you to help advocate on behalf of issues that impact your financial future and your working conditions.

Miguel Cardona’s formative experience as a teacher and administrator has been critical to his accomplishments as Connecticut Education Commissioner. He has been tested by the unprecedented upheaval caused by the pandemic. While this challenge has been a rocky road — and many issues remain unresolved — teachers and school support staff have appreciated his openness…

The Board of Education Union Coalition, a group of labor unions that includes CEA, met virtually to outline next steps toward ensuring that the state protects the health and safety of students, staff, and community members amid the current COVID-19 surge.

Thank you for signing the petition we presented to the governor last week. Please continue your efforts by calling your legislators to urge them to support safe schools.

Don’t miss your opportunity to share your concerns regarding COVID-19 and what’s happening in your school district. CEA has once again teamed up with WFSB-TV 3 and AFT Connecticut for a survey to collect and publicize educators’ concerns regarding teaching during a pandemic.

Today marks a somber anniversary: eight years since the tragic shooting that claimed the lives of 20 first-graders and six teachers and staff at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. Sandy Hook remains the deadliest mass shooting at an elementary or high school in the United States. “We must never forget the precious lives…

Are you an educator burdened by student debt? If so, you are not alone. CEA members can join NEA student debt experts for a virtual student debt clinic Saturday, December 12.

Leaders of education unions representing thousands of public school employees presented a petition signed by more than 14,000 education and community members.

Do you know an educator who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to multiculturalism, equal opportunities, LGBTQ support and awareness, conflict resolution, or other social issues pertinent to students and public education?

CEA sends condolences to the family and friends of Sharon Palmer, former AFT Connecticut president, labor commissioner, and East Haddam and Waterford teacher, on her recent passing.

The holidays are different this year due to coronavirus concerns, and many are forgoing in-person family gatherings. NEA Member Benefits is ready to help you make the most out of this holiday season, whatever your plans may be.

Remember to check out the deals and discounts available from NEA Member Benefits as you’re doing your holiday shopping this year.

Dozens of teachers, along with students, parents, policymakers, and community stakeholders, participated in a virtual symposium to explore topics such as special education, social emotional learning, engaging parents and other caregivers, technology, and the future of distance learning.

By donating to the CEF Holiday Bear Project, you can brighten the holidays for a child who would otherwise go without gifts this year.

Sign the petition now and let the governor and education commissioner know you support keeping students, teachers, and school staff safe. 

Help redefine the future of public education by joining us December 2 from 4-6pm for a virtual community symposium.

This Thanksgiving teachers deserve our utmost thanks for all you are doing to educate Connecticut children during the pandemic.

A day after Stratford teachers held a rally to protest against a plan that would have had students back in school four days a week for in-person learning, the district is changing course and going all remote through December 4, with a plan to return to a hybrid model after that point.

After an outpouring of community support, the Region 4 School District is rescinding a resignation request it made recently of beloved teacher and coach Tim King.

Stratford teachers came out in force to demonstrate against a plan that would have students back in school four days a week for in-person learning, even as COVID cases are on the rise.

The Safe and Successful Schools Now report outlines immediate steps necessary to keep students, educators, staff, and communities safe.

Donate to the CEF’s Holiday Bear and brighten the holidays for a child who would otherwise go without gifts this year.

Be part of the discussion and help redefine the future of public education by attending the December 2nd virtual community symposium.

Dr. Lammia Agoora, a teacher at Rogers Park Middle School in Danbury, is one of only 46 teachers from around the country to be selected as a recipient of the California Casualty Award for Teaching Excellence.

On the very first day that Stratford moved from hybrid to four days a week of in-person learning for kindergarteners and first graders a kindergarten class is being forced to go remote until December 1 due to a positive COVID case.

During this American Education Week 2020, whether teaching remotely, in-person, or following a hybrid model, educators are working harder than ever for their students.

Explore Native American culture this November with these lessons, activities, and resources.

A coalition of unions representing public education employees issued a response to state guidance regarding local school building COVID-19-related closures.

Connecticut has limited indoor and outdoor gatherings to 10 people or fewer to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and also requires those who travel to many other states to quarantine or provide the results of a negative COVID test upon their return.

Facing steadily rising numbers of COVID-19 cases and crippling shortages in school staffing the Hamden Board of Education heard from concerned educators supporting a proposal to shift to full distance learning between the Thanksgiving holiday and January 19.

California Casualty, an endorsed NEA Auto and Home Insurance provider, offers grants to support music and arts teachers and their students. Find out how to apply.

If your district adopted the flexible educator evaluation option, it is important to understand how this will impact you.

NEA President Becky Pringle on the election of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.

As we wait for the democratic process to play out and all votes to be counted in the presidential election, here in Connecticut we are celebrating the win of public education champions to federal and state offices.

Middletown Public Schools is the first district in the state to offer free, rapid COVID-19 testing for students and staff. Governor Lamont today said he hopes other districts will also be able to offer rapid testing soon.

The first months of the 2020-21 school year have been unlike those of any year before, and educators beginning their first year in the teaching profession face a number of unique challenges.

It’s Election Day! Polls in Connecticut are open from 6am to 8pm. If you don’t know where to vote, visit the Secretary of the State’s voter registration lookup page to find your polling place.

For the first time, Connecticut school districts are allowed to treat weather-related closings as remote learning days, if they so choose. Last month the State Board of Education (SBE) approved this change for the 2020-21 school year.

Join us Monday, November 2, from 4:30 to 5:30 and learn how to organize and streamline your assignments in Google Classroom.

If you’re still planning to vote via absentee ballot make sure to drop your ballot off at the official ballot drop box in front of your town hall–the mail could take too long. If you have already voted by absentee ballot, you can check to make sure your ballot has been received.

The State Department of Education this week informed superintendents that they have until Monday, November 2 to request reallocation of the Coronavirus Relief Funds they received from the state.

Connecticut Congresswoman Jahana Hayes is introducing the Save Education Jobs Act that will save almost 4 million jobs, spur economic growth, and help to mitigate the impact of students’ learning loss as a result of the pandemic.

If you’re planning to vote in person or haven’t filled out your absentee ballot yet, remember to check out CEA’s Legislator Report Card and District Comparison to see how the candidates running in your area stand on issues related to public education. 

“We want to hear from you about the challenges you face and any possible solutions,” CEA President Jeff Leake told members who joined a Zoom listening forum yesterday. Additional CEA forums are being held Tuesday and Wednesday so CEA members can give voice to the issues they are facing in their districts.

Keeping a finger on the pulse of public education is important, especially during a pandemic when so much is changing so quickly and new expectations are being heaped on teachers.

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, CEA-Retired members are still meeting, volunteering, and staying engaged—virtually. At the CEA-Retired Annual Fall Conference yesterday nearly 200 retirees joined a Zoom call to hear the latest on politics, pensions, and public education.

CEA’s efforts to diversify the teaching profession are receiving national attention via an NEA Today article that features Bridgeport teachers and discusses CEA’s recent campaign to interest young people in teaching careers.

Many educators don’t have the resources they need, and when job demands become unsustainable, the result is anxiety, stress, and eventually burnout. We need to hear directly from you regarding what’s working and what’s not.

NEA’s Auto & Home Insurance Program, provided by California Casualty, is offering a two-month holiday skip-payment option perfect for this time of year. Make the holidays easier on your wallet by taking advantage of this option. You can designate the two months you’d like to free up your money during the holidays. If you are already…

Why is it so important to get out and vote? “We must stand together as educators and continue to advocate for a strong system and better resources all around,” says Waterbury teacher Sabrina Del Negro.

Best practices for keeping virtual class meetings safe from Zoombombing attacks.

CEA Vice President Tom Nicholas shared what teachers are going through this school year during a meeting focused on the trauma associated with learning and teaching during the pandemic and the need for more to be done to support schools.

The CEA Professional Learning Academy offers a wealth of professional development opportunities, aligned with Connecticut’s professional learning standards, to help improve teaching practice and enhance student learning. New workshops are added frequently and are now being offered virtually.

The October/November CEA Advisor is now online. Watch for it in your mailbox in the next few days, and don’t miss these and other stories in our special two-part Back-to-School and Election edition.

Poquonock School kindergarten teacher named Connecticut’s 2021 Teacher of the Year.

Stand with us and keep us safe. That was the message Windsor Locks teachers sent to Board of Education members last night, calling on them to take the necessary steps to ensure school safety. Windsor Locks Teachers’ Association President Brian Deming said the board is not listening to teachers’ concerns and has repeatedly refused to…

CEA is setting up virtual meetings between CEA members and their legislators. Talk to your local leaders to set up a meeting in your district.

New Survey Highlights Inequities in Student Educational Opportunities and Critical Resources That Risk Safety and Learning in State’s Lowest-Performing School Districts

Learn more about discounts on items you buy and use every day at the CEA Member Benefits Virtual Vendor Fair this Thursday, October 8—plus, check out highlighted NEA Member Benefits offers for October.

CEA has joined with a coalition of labor unions to run a television and digital ad campaign calling for a state budget that focuses on helping working and middle class people recover from the impacts of the pandemic.

During the COVID-19 pandemic teachers have numerous questions about quarantine, the Americans with Disabilities Act, how schools should handle those who test positive for COVID-19, and more. CEA attorneys answer your questions in a series of webinars.

Tell the governor to issue an Executive Order so teachers placed in quarantine receive paid quarantine leave and don’t have to use their own sick days.

CEA’s virtual comprehensive workshops on understanding and planning your retirement will cover all issues related to the State Teachers’ Retirement System, such as retirement eligibility, purchasing additional service, how Social Security may be affected, retiree health insurance, and choosing a retirement plan.

Your 2020-21 CEA membership card has recently arrived or will soon be arriving in your mailbox.

Teachers who already worked long hours are working harder and longer hours than ever before during this unprecedented school year—which is why CEA and AFT Connecticut worked successfully with the State Department of Education to provide teachers with flexibility when it comes to teacher evaluation.

Join the CEA Member Benefits Virtual Vendor Fair on October 8 to explore special offers and score savings. Hear about discounts on items you buy and use every day.

Guide measures legislators’ support for public education; honor roll distinction awarded to education champions

Darien Education Association members were out in force to let their community know they have serious concerns about a full reopening of schools in a district whose neighbors are experiencing growing numbers of COVID cases.

Find out how to register to vote in Connecticut, and how to vote by absentee ballot this year if you so choose.

A new, free course from the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence aims to help educators care for their own well-being so they can better support their students.

We at CEA send healing wishes to Congresswoman Jahana Hayes and her staff who have tested positive for COVID-19.

CEA honors the legacy of Ruth Bader Ginsberg, who fought for equality and fairness for working women and men.

Large-scale disasters cause tremendous devastation and strife for NEA members and their families. If you would like to help, please consider making a donation to the NEA Oregon Wildfires Relief Fund and/or the NEA Hurricane Laura Relief Fund.

Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage month with these lessons, activities, videos, and more.

State mandate, transparency, and open communication must guide local and regional districts to keep everyone safe.

Join NEA Member Benefits partner California Casualty in its effort to stop distracted driving, and enter for a chance to get home safely in a new 2020 Jeep Compass.

NEA Member Benefits offers NEA members two free magazine subscriptions per year. Choose from a variety of popular, iconic titles brought to you by the NEA Magazine Service.

Like many educators, New Milford teacher Dr. David Mirto is worried about how the return to school might impact his family and his own health.

Most Connecticut students are now back in school, but reopening has not gone smoothly in all districts. Four districts have already been forced to close schools because of COVID-19 cases, and many more have students and staff members who are currently quarantined.

A free, confidential hotline is available to help teachers manage stress and anxiety during the coronavirus crisis. Get connected to a trained professional for immediate assistance.

Keeping a finger on the pulse of public education is important, especially when election results remain undecided and the demands of teaching during a pandemic are heaping more expectations on teachers.

As an NEA member you can save on everything from an iPad to flowers to a new or used car. Remember to check out the deals and discounts available to you this September and every month.

“These are hard, difficult times we’re in,” State Rep. Robert Sanchez told his colleagues on the legislature’s Education Committee. “I hope we see all children going back to school in the next couple of weeks and there are no spikes, but we’ll see what happens.”

Some students are returning to Connecticut schools this week, others go back next week—Litchfield students were among the first in the state and headed back to school last Wednesday.

This back-to-school season is challenging for all educators, but it can pose specific hardships for those at the beginning of their careers. That’s why NEA has created resources to support new educators at the beginning of the school year and beyond. Check out the podcast, video, blog posts, webinars, and more—or share them with your…

The NEA Auto & Home Insurance Program by California Casualty saves members an average of $423 a year. Each policy includes educator specific benefits, free ID theft protection, pet injury coverage, and exclusive member-only rates.

In this back-to-school video message, CEA leaders explain the importance of continuing to speak out for safe schools.

“We cannot guarantee the safety of our students or our teachers when schools reopen next week,” Mike Archambault, East Haven Education Association Vice President told the members of the East Haven Board of Education last night.

The moratorium on federal student loan payments will continue automatically through December 31, without penalties or the accrual of interest. In addition, federal borrowers will receive credit toward Public Service Loan Forgiveness and loans in the federal rehab process without having to make a payment. As with the original relief package, the president’s order does not affect private student loans. 

Send an email to the governor and commissioner to share your concerns about school reopening.

Support core principals aligned with CEA recommendations Read the unions’ 13 reopening standards Read CEA’s Safe Learning Plan and Updated Recommendations Watch News Conference Unions across the state have joined together calling for reopening schools in person only if districts can guarantee that physical safety protocols can be met to keep students, teachers, and staff…

When the Region 12 Board of Education held a meeting earlier this week to vote on the district’s reopening plan, teachers showed up in force.

Connecticut’s 2019 Teacher of the Year Sheena Graham, a Bridgeport music teacher, joined teachers from New York and New Jersey on CBS This Morning to share concerns about schools’ ability to manage the coronavirus spread.

Cars dropped off backpacks filled with crayons, markers, notebooks, pencils, glue sticks, erasers, tissues, hand sanitizers, and dozens of other items students and teachers will need when they go back to school during a supply drive spearheaded by iHeart radio personality Renee DiNino.

Sometimes opportunities disguise themselves as obstacles, said one of the nearly 70 participants in a virtual training for teacher leaders. The topic was equity in education, and the question was how to achieve it.

CEA is teaming up with our colleagues at AFT Connecticut in support of a Teacher and Student School Supply Drive sponsored by iHeartMedia Connecticut’s Community Access program.

Remember to check out the deals available from NEA Member Benefits for savings on everything from appliances to computers to cell phone plans.

Are you considering buying a home? If you’re a first time home buyer, check to see whether you qualify for the Connecticut Teachers Mortgage Assistance Program. The Teachers Mortgage Assistance Program offers home loans at below-market interest rates to Connecticut public school teachers. To be eligible for the program, you must be employed as a…

“Governor Lamont’s announcement of an additional $166 million to support school reopening plans is welcome news for educators and parents across the state. It demonstrates that the collective voices of teachers, support staff and communities during last week’s car caravans across Connecticut were heard. “Now is the time to also provide clear, updated safety guidelines…

In collaboration with the Connecticut State Department of Education and public education advocates the Center for Public Research and Leadership at Columbia University has developed guidance to support districts in creating equitable, high-quality, and culturally responsive and sustaining remote learning available to all children, no matter what their home situation and their education and language needs.…

CEA and AFT Connecticut organized a meeting between the governor and teachers and were pleased that the governor responded to teachers’ concerns regarding the need for safety, equity, funding, and flexibility.

Across the state, students, parents, and community members joined School Safety First Car Caravans to demand safe school reopening plans.

More than 70 CEA members who are local leaders in their associations joined a virtual meeting with U.S. Senator Chris Murphy this week to hear congressional plans and challenges when it comes to school reopening.

Join NEA for a virtual town hall to discuss how parents, educators, students, and communities can advocate for the safe reopening of public schools, facilities, and campuses.

Hundreds turned out for a community march for students, teachers, and families—Black Lives Matter in Bloomfield Schools—organized by Carmen Arace Intermediate School fifth grade teacher Mary Kay Rendock and her colleagues throughout the district.

Districts around Connecticut are preparing to send their reopening plans to the State Department of Education by tomorrow’s deadline, but how those plans have been developed and the provisions they contain vary widely by district.

Join your colleagues in Hartford or at one of the simultaneous rallies being held in towns across the state and send a strong message to the governor that safe schools save lives and any school reopening must focus on safety, equity, and funding. WHO: All educators, staff, parents, students, and others supporting a safe school…

Recent NEA webinars covered a lot of ground, including CDC guidance on how to reopen for in-person instruction and when to reclose, accommodations for high-risk groups, federal leave laws, waivers, health and safety committees, and bargaining for the common good to protect school communities during a global pandemic. Find out more and watch the webinar here.…

While we appreciate Governor Lamont’s pledge of “safety first” for our students and schools and his word that he will “have teachers’ backs” when it comes to masks, sanitizing, and social distancing, local districts need assurance that state funding will be provided for virus-related expenses.

This week is your last chance! Enter to win $2,500 to put toward teaching supplies and school-related items courtesy of California Casualty, the NEA Auto & Home Insurance provider. The contest ends July 17. Realizing that every dollar counts when it comes to educating children, California Casualty created the $2,500 Academic Award to offset the amount NEA…

The State Board of Education today voted to offer a waiver to Connecticut school districts for three of the 180 days usually required by state statute. Those three days could instead be used at the start of the school year for additional PD for staff, classroom set-up for educators, to provide social emotional services or…

All CEA members should be on the lookout for a survey that is being emailed to you today or tomorrow by CEA President Jeff Leake. CEA and NEA are conducting a representative and scientific survey of CEA members because we want to hear your concerns regarding the state’s reopening plan.  Be part of the conversation.…

During a webinar today State Department of Education (SDE) officials, joined by Governor Ned Lamont and Acting Department of Public Health (DPH) Commissioner Deidre Gifford, answered questions submitted by educators and parents on a range of topics that included many health and safety concerns. While today’s webinar was a step toward answering teachers’ and parents’…

The election this November 3 will be as important as any before it for students and teachers. Elections for federal and state positions will have wide-reaching impacts on everything from keeping our schools safe during the pandemic, to education funding, to involving educators in the decision making processes. For the first time ever in Connecticut,…

NEA’s Office of General Counsel and Collective Bargaining and Member Advocacy teams will host a webinar about returning to in-person instruction this Friday, July 17, at 3 p.m.

This year’s National Education Association Representative Assembly, themed Our Democracy; Our Responsibility; Our time was unlike any other, as more than 7,000 delegates logged in virtually to conduct the organization’s business.

Teachers have numerous concerns about Connecticut’s plan for school reopening, and CEA leaders are talking with members daily and working on ways to make sure these issues are addressed.

A new bill introduced by U.S. Senators Patty Murray and Chuck Schumer would be an important move toward allowing schools to open safely this fall. The Coronavirus Child Care and Education Relief Act includes $175 billion for K-12 schools, $12 billion for special education, and $4 billion for the E-Rate program to narrow the digital…

The U.S. Supreme Court today handed a victory to those seeking to divert money away from public schools and expand voucher programs. In a 5-4 decision, the Court ruled that Montana must reinstate a voucher program and allow parents to use their vouchers at religious as well as secular private schools. “Let’s be clear about…

Teachers are concerned about a plan to return to school in the fall that doesn’t include testing or screening of staff and students, limits on class sizes, or provisions to ensure social distancing. Since the plan was released yesterday, many CEA members have been speaking out and sharing their concerns with Connecticut media outlets. “There…

At a press conference this afternoon Governor Ned Lamont and Education Commissioner Miguel Cardona announced reopening guidelines for schools that raise many questions and concerns for educators and parents. The guidelines include no class size caps, staggered schedules, or requirements for COVID-19 testing. “The reopen plan that we’re asking all districts to complete must include…

A landmark court decision is likely to have a significant impact on the state’s special education student population and a financial impact for school districts. Earlier this month a federal district court ruled that, consistent with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Connecticut school districts must offer a free, appropriate, public education to special…

Thousands of educators around the country last week joined a tele-town hall on education equity and safe school reopening. Organized by the National Education Association and moderated by award-winning reporter and C-SPAN host Jesse Holland, the event featured a live Q&A with NEA Vice President Becky Pringle and NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson. “Despite…

The death of George Floyd and those of other African Americans as well as the inequities some of their students face weigh heavily on the minds of many educators. To show their support for their students and community the East Hartford Education Association Ethnic Minority Affairs Commission is organizing a peaceful rally and march this…

Simple acupressure techniques can help eliminate or reduce stress. Learn a few easy activities you can use and teach your students. Watch this week’s CEA Mindful Moment video.

This series of short videos from CEA Teacher Development Specialist Kate Field illustrates how mindfulness can enhance the overall well being of students and teachers. This week’s video is about the mindfulness lessons birds can teach us.

Teachers are rising to the challenge and educating their students in the most extraordinary circumstances.

Connecticut’s elected officials, health experts, education stakeholders, and others agree that when school resumes this fall, it is unlikely to look like school pre-COVID. Safeguards will need to be in place to protect students and staff against exposure to a virus that has no available vaccine and is still not well-understood. Protocol will need to…

A virtual forum hosted by CEA brought elementary school classroom teachers, special education teachers, media specialists, literacy coaches, school social workers, and others together to share tips, tricks, and challenges—and a few laughs—related to distance learning. Among the hurdles teachers reported: “Different schools and districts are comparing themselves to each other, but we don’t all…

Teachers are working tirelessly to provide distance learning during an unprecedented pandemic and are keeping students engaged and learning while providing a slice of normalcy and stability for them and their families. When schools reopen, students will need additional supports to catch up and deal with the trauma caused by the pandemic. Now is not…

Are you holding on to anger or resentment? They could be causing you undue anxiety and stress. Watch this week’s CEA Mindful Moment video, and learn activities to help you let go and enhance your well-being.

On a regular Saturday, the parking lot at Victoria Soto Elementary School in Stratford’s south end sees some 150 families come through for a monthly food pickup from the Connecticut Food Bank. Lately, however, those numbers have nearly doubled. And the same teachers who have spent the first Saturday of every month this school year…

When Brookfield High School science teacher Heather Biancheri learned of the impact COVID-19 was having on members of her community, she did what many fellow educators around the state began doing: helping those most vulnerable with food delivery and more. “I began volunteering to deliver food each week to senior citizens to keep at-risk people…

Learn how taking a few minutes for gratitude meditation can increase positive feelings. Giving yourself regular reminders of what you’re most grateful for can have a powerful impact on your body and mind. Find out more by watching this week’s CEA Mindful Moment video.

Teachers who are caring for young children or elderly relatives or who have other responsibilities to balance while learning new platforms and teaching their students are stretched incredibly thin right now, but many teachers who have the time are finding ways to give back. Mansfield teacher Louis Goffinet is one of them.

During these challenging times teachers are going above and beyond to learn new skills to reach their students. Watch CEA members from around Connecticut describe teachers’ role during this health emergency.

The aid package the U.S. House passed this afternoon and President Trump has now signed into law includes $13.5 billion in dedicated aid for K-12 schools and billions more for child care and nutrition services. Among the elements of the bill are: Immediate stimulus checks for most households—up to $1,200 per person and $500 per…

In a press conference this afternoon Governor Ned Lamont announced that the earliest Connecticut schools will be allowed to re-open is April 20. To support students who are out of school for an extended time, the governor said that the state is working to get laptops and internet access for more children. The Partnership for…

As the threat of coronavirus disease spreads, CEA is working with Governor Ned Lamont, State Department of Education Commissioner Miguel Cardona, and others to ensure that Connecticut’s public schools are prepared. “We must be proactive about ensuring the health and safety of our students, teachers, and school communities,” said CEA President Jeff Leake. “CEA is…

Future Educators of Diversity were at the top of the agenda at West Hartford’s Board of Education meeting this month, where the Board and community members learned about the organization’s mission, achievements, and planned activities. Future Educators of Diversity was piloted in West Hartford, where it has grown and is very active. Since then, similar…

The 2020 session of the Connecticut General Assembly begins tomorrow. Though it’s a short session (three months compared to the five the legislature meets in odd-numbered years), it’s sure to be packed with many issues for lawmakers to tackle. Stay up to date on all the education-related happenings at the legislature this session by subscribing…

CEA President Jeff Leake, Vice President Tom Nicholas, Secretary Stephanie Wanzer, and Treasurer David Jedidan—and all of us at CEA—wish you happy holidays and a wonderful 2020.

Keeping a finger on the pulse of public education in Connecticut is important—especially now, with so many expectations being made of teachers and our profession. It’s never been more important to stay up-to-date with your union and all the latest education news affecting Connecticut teachers. Here at BlogCEA we want to make sure you as…

Summer’s here and the time is right for … financial planning? That’s right. For educators who are busy during the school year, there may not be another opportunity to do so. And before you know it you’ll be back in the classroom. So consider following these steps from NEA Member Benefits to ensure you’re on…

NEA Member Benefits is offering NEA members a chance to win $5,000 cash to reward you for your dedication and help you further your own educational pursuits. Now through August 31, 2019, you can enter each month. If you’re the lucky $5,000 winner, you could choose to fund professional development courses for yourself, cover some…

History of the Stars & Stripes Flag Day Celebrated A brief description of Flag Day for students in grades K-5 with images and audio files. Today in History: June 14th: Flag Day Text, images, songs, and links to additional resources for grades 6-12. Our Flag ( PDF, 11.4 MB, 56 pgs.) A background resource with history…

DUE Justice, a coalition of organizations demanding a fair, just, and moral budget, came together for a rally at the State Capitol this afternoon. The coalition, which includes CEA and AFT Connecticut, is asking the governor and legislators to pass a budget that fully funds neighborhood public schools, makes housing and healthcare affordable, protects vital…

Connecticut high school students showed off their computing chops at a legislative reception honoring the winners of the Congressional App Challenge. The event—in which winners from each of the state’s five congressional districts exhibited their work at the State Capitol and demonstrated for legislative leaders what’s happening with computer science education in their schools—was hosted…

The 171st CEA Representative Assembly continued Saturday morning, with nearly 400 delegates—teachers from every part of the state—in attendance. Addressing delegates as CEA president for the first time, veteran Cheshire teacher Jeff Leake urged teachers to continue the fight to protect students, public education, and the teaching profession; combat social and racial injustice; and grow,…

Nearly 400 teachers gathered at the Mohegan Sun Expo and Convention Center last night to begin setting policy and electing new leaders at the 171st Connecticut Education Association Representative Assembly (CEA RA). The CEA RA is the Association’s highest policymaking body. CEA President Jeff Leake opened with a warm acknowledgement of teachers’ hard work and…

Nearly 40 educators met and mingled at the first-ever Hartford Regional Ethnic Minority Teacher Social hosted by CEA on Monday. The event was an opportunity for teachers of color to network, discuss ways of diversifying a predominantly white teaching force in Connecticut, and explore avenues for becoming more involved at all levels of the union—from…

CEA is developing and supporting a number of initiatives—from public policy to practice—to ensure that Connecticut’s teaching force better reflects the diversity of its student population. Lisa Cordova, president of the CREC Education Association, testified this morning before members of the State Board of Education about one such initiative—created by CREC—that is aimed at recruiting,…

In an overwhelming turnout for Retired Teachers Lobby Day, hundreds of former Connecticut educators gathered at the Legislative Office Building this morning to meet with their elected officials about issues critical to public education and the teaching profession. Among the biggest of these are funding teacher pensions and avoiding a proposed cost shift.   “We…

Despite the tremendous progress Connecticut has made in reducing the number of incarcerated youth over the past 10 years, a troubling trend continues: Black and brown children continue to come in contact with the juvenile and criminal justice system in disproportionate numbers compared to their white peers. Studies have confirmed that bias is one factor—meaning…

This month, all members who subscribe to BlogCEA are being entered for a daily chance to win a CEA swag bag. The BlogCEA bag contains a flash drive, cell phone pocket, clip, and more. For your chance to win, just click here and subscribe today. Winners for the first part of February are

With recent cuts to state education funding, a new legislative session about to start, and the future of teachers and public education at risk it’s never been more important to stay up to date on the latest education news affecting Connecticut teachers. Here at BlogCEA we want to make sure you as a CEA member…