NEA Board of Directors: Candidate statements
01/26/2021
At the 2021 ISTA Representative Assembly (RA), an election will be held for a position on the National Education Association (NEA) Board of Directors.
Interested candidates may complete a candidate form by March 1 to be eligible for candidacy at the ISTA RA April 24.
John McLaughlin
I am John McLaughlin and I teach algebra to high school students. I’ve taught from Kindergarten to high school and many in between. Previously I worked as an attorney. I decided I wanted to make a difference with children before I had to defend them. I’ve been told of an old proverb that says: If you want to change the world, become a teacher. I became a teacher.
You and I are the answer to helping children obtain a good education. The pandemic has isolated our students. We are often their most vital adult. I am running for NEA Board to represent our students, educators, and ISTA. We need a knowledgeable fighter at NEA with the major changes that may be on the horizon due to the change in the Supreme Court. Our unions desperately need a firm foundation right now. I am that knowledgeable ISTA fighter who can battle for our survival.
I made an awesome career change. I want to continue to lobby Congress on behalf of our profession. Legal skills help when working with Legislators. Please vote John McLaughlin for NEA Board. Thank you!!!
Amber Seibert
I am a high school English teacher in Decatur Township, and I am running for NEA Director to advocate for Indiana educators at the national level. I know from experience that public education has the power to change lives. I also know that we must relentlessly advocate to protect public education, which I have already done at the local and state levels. We are the experts on our profession and must communicate our knowledge to policymakers to help them make informed decisions about everything from funding to legal protections for educators and students. I believe it is integral to hear from educators like you and relay your stories to legislators. I will work tirelessly on your behalf to build legislative relationships to collaborate and find bipartisan solutions effectively. I represent the newest generation of educators, and I am ready to fight for our profession and our students. My body of work in our association speaks to my commitment, passion, and efficacy. I am asking for your vote to be your next NEA Director. I am ready to work with you and to represent you.
The above statements were prepared by the candidates for the office of NEA Board of Directors. Each statement has been printed in its entirety, unabridged, as it was received, but limited to 200 words or fewer. ISTA Rules Governing Elections, (III. A., 2., b. and c.) prohibit the use of Association staff and equipment on behalf of any candidates for Association office.
For more information about the ISTA RA, visit ista-in.org/ista-ra.