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NEA Issue Explainer

Workers' Rights

Educators and all public-service employees deserve to negotiate over pay, benefits, and working conditions, but they lack a federal law that would guarantee that right.
Teacher stands with arms crossed in a Social Studies classroom with plexiglass on desks.
Published: December 2, 2021
This issue explainer originally appeared on NEA.org

The National Education Association and other labor unions have led the fight for better working conditions, including the 8-hour workday, overtime rights, and access to health care and retirement security. 

Educators’ working conditions are students’ learning conditions; good working conditions for educators promote student learning and engagement.

When educators come together to negotiate a fair contract with their employers, they can set limits on class size and address health and safety issues. They can pave the way for community schools and play a role in identifying and solving problems.

Tameka Mays
“I always try to encourage people to get involved in the union. It’s not only about making change for yourself and your students; it’s also about being part of the education community.”
Jocelyn

Professional Pay

Competitive pay is crucial for attracting and retaining qualified educators for our students, throughout their academic journeys.
Image of Eloy Delgado

Health Benefits & Policy

NEA strongly supports access to quality, affordable, and comprehensive health care coverage for all residents of the United States.
woman collaborating online

Pensions & Retirement Security

Pensions are crucial to attracting and retaining qualified, experienced educators in the profession. And that's worth fighting for.
Teacher and paraeducator team

Job & Career Security

No matter their age, from Pre-K to higher ed, our students benefit when all educators—janitorial staff, paraeducators, and college professors alike—are treated like the professionals they are.
Teacher with elementary school students

Advocating for Change

NEA helps build collective action for competitive pay, health benefits, and retirement security so we can attract and retain the best educators for our students.

Use Your Educator Voice.

We are THE voice for educators in South Carolina. See what membership can mean for you!
The SCEA members in the Statehouse

Your Voice Matters!

Contact your elected officials at any level on any issue. Use this link to find their contact information, including email, phone number, and even their Facebook or Twitter.
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Your Voice. Our Power. Their Future.

The SCEA is an affiliate of the largest professional association of educators in the country. As the leading advocate for the schools South Carolina students deserve, The SCEA works to promote quality public education and to support public school employees.