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Pres. Andrew Smith: The Power of Showing Up--In Our Classrooms, at Our Worksites, and at the Polls

Every single day, educators do something quiet yet revolutionary: we show up.

We show up in the early hours before the first bell rings, preparing buses to safely transport children. We show up at the classroom door with a welcoming smile, offering a safe harbor to children who may have spent their morning navigating chaos, uncertainty, or neglect. For millions of students across the nation, especially our most vulnerable students, the physical presence of a dedicated teacher, paraprofessional, social worker or counselor is the single most stabilizing force in their life.

Public education is far more than a site of academic instruction, it is a life-saving epicenter. Inside our schools, children are fed nourishing meals, screened for physical and behavioral health needs, protected from harm, and given the belief that they matter. When an educator consistently shows up with empathy, high expectations, and unwavering care, it can completely alter a student’s trajectory. A listening ear during a tough moment or crisis can literally save a life.

However, the duty to “show up” for our students cannot end when the final bell rings, when we lock our classroom doors for the day, or when we do our final safety check at the bus garage. This year, showing up means extending our commitment beyond the school grounds and bringing our collective voice to the ballot box.

The critical upcoming election in November will directly impact the daily reality of our schools and the well-being of the students we serve. The decisions made by elected officials determine school district funding levels, access to critical mental health resources, intervention programs, facility safety, and the future of public education itself. When we cast our ballots, we act as the primary advocates for children who are not yet old enough to vote for themselves.

Just as our students rely on us to be present in their classrooms, our communities rely on us to be active civic participants. Communities trust their teachers and educators. Voting is one of the most powerful tools we have to ensure that every school is equipped with the resources necessary to keep vulnerable children safe, healthy, and supported.

Before November, take a moment to outline your voting strategy. Whether you intend to vote early in person, cast an absentee ballot, or head to the polls on Election Day, having a clear plan (and a backup) ensures your voice is heard. Review our list of OEA endorsed candidates—these are the candidates who showed up to share their belief and vision for Ohio’s public schools and students.

As educators, we know that showing up isn’t always easy, but it is always necessary. Let’s bring that same consistency, dedication, and purpose to the democratic process this fall.

Andrew Smith

NEOEA President