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President Sue Messinger: Knowledge is Power

It’s that time of year again! It’s the point in the school calendar when, despite our passion for teaching, work can begin to feel, well, like work. For me, the school year often starts out feeling like there’s plenty of time to fit in everything I want to accomplish during the year. Yet before I get through the first few units, the holidays quickly approach, and suddenly it seems like the year is speeding by in a blur.

I do genuinely love being in the classroom. The joy of interacting with young people and being part of a team dedicated to growth—there’s nothing quite like it. But as much as I treasure that, the reality is that our profession is a demanding one and sometimes the demands outweigh the joys. The cyclical quality of our work is a blessing to me, but while it gives a reliable structure to lean on, it sometimes contributes to a dizzying pace. What I appreciate and look forward to are the many events and opportunities that break up the year and renew our energy within our NEOEA community.

Looking ahead, there are several program highlights to anticipate in the coming months. Coming up in January, the Leadership Summit will be held virtually, and following that, the ESP Virtual Conference in February will offer another chance to connect and grow our union voices. Later in March, we’ll come together for Megaconference, NEOEA’s comprehensive day of sessions offering so much to our professional and personal knowledge. Within the pages of this News & Views, you will find conference details and registration information, plus a recap of our recent Representative Assembly and recognition of locals and members.

So, while the school year may sometimes feel overwhelming or incredibly fast-paced, remember that we have these programs to anchor us throughout the months. These events are designed to empower us, equip us, and remind us that we’re not alone. Through these shared experiences, we strengthen our ability to face challenges head-on and to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and communities.

Thank you all for your dedication and hard work. Embrace this season with enthusiasm and joy, and here’s to a continued successful year!

Sue Messinger
NEOEA President