Cook County Education Association

06/09/2026

Great summer read!

We are affiliated with the AFL-CIO.

When a billionaire tells you a union is bad for you, that's not advice. That's a signal that you're onto something that actually works.

05/08/2026

To our incredible PTA,

You absolutely clicked your heels together and turned Teacher Appreciation Week into something straight out of Oz.

From the ramen bar to the candy and beverage cart, the cupcakes, donuts, and every thoughtful detail in between, this week felt like walking the Yellow Brick Road with snacks in our hands and gratitude in our hearts.

We feel so lucky to be part of a school community that shows up so generously for its staff. Your support reminds us that education is never a solo journey. It truly takes a village, and we are honored to walk this road with you beside us.

Thank you for making us feel seen, celebrated, and deeply appreciated. Your kindness carried a little extra sparkle this week, and it meant more than you know.

Also, shoutout to Unified Club and NHS for delivering.

With gratitude,
CCEA

05/05/2026

CCEA is proud to share our very own union president, Chad Benesh, has been named to the Education Minnesota Governing Board!

This is an incredible honor and a reflection of the leadership, dedication, and advocacy Chad brings not only to our local, but to educators across the state.

Chad, we are excited to see the impact you will make in this new role.
Congratulations, Chad! We are so proud to stand with you!

04/24/2026

We’re proud to shine a spotlight on Judy!

When she’s not in the classroom, Judy enjoys spending time with her family—especially those rare moments when everyone can be together. She also loves getting outside, relaxing at the lake, and soaking in life’s quieter moments.

This spring marks an exciting milestone as Judy completes her Master’s in Special Education! Even more inspiring, she’s continuing her impact beyond the classroom by collaborating with her professor to publish her work and present at a future training workshop.

We are incredibly lucky to have such a caring and dedicated elementary special education teacher on our team. Congratulations, Judy! We’re so proud of you!

04/16/2026

Last Friday, CCEA celebrated our newly settled contract with a little magic from the best in the business—Mr. Chaz.

Mr. Chaz means so much to CCEA. He’s not only a dedicated supporter, but also a familiar face in our schools as a substitute teacher, always showing up with a smile and a positive spirit for our students.

We celebrated the best way we know how—together. With incredible magic, good food, and a whole lot of laughter, it was a night to remember.

A special thank you to our entire union for the hard work, commitment, and unity that made a fair contract possible.

04/03/2026

We’re proud to highlight one of our incredible teachers who truly embodies what it means to be part of this community - Stephanie!

In the classroom, Stephanie's passion is clear: teaching young learners how to read and witnessing the incredible growth that happens in just one year. She love the creativity, excitement, and energy that 5- and 6-year-olds bring, building a classroom community full of curiosity and joy. 📚💛

Outside of school, you can find Stephanie staying active at group fitness classes at the YMCA or hiking along the Superior Hiking Trail with her sidekick, Rex. 🐾🥾

And there’s even more to celebrate! Over the past two years, Stephanie has been working toward a Master’s in Education with a K–12 reading licensure and will be graduating this May—an amazing accomplishment! 🎓 In addition, she's been enjoying watching her husband’s business grow with the expansion of Fika Coffee.

Thank you for your dedication, passion, and the positive impact you make on our youngest learners every single day!

04/01/2026

The best way to celebrate Paraprofessional Appreciation Day? Pay them a living wage.

These professionals are the glue who hold our schools together. They deserve professional pay for professional work, safe working conditions, affordable health insurance and much more.

03/27/2026

This incredible opportunity didn’t just happen overnight—Erin dedicated countless hours to planning, organizing, and creating fundraising opportunities to make this trip possible for our students.

Thank you, Erin, for your commitment, leadership, and for going above and beyond to give students the chance to explore the world, experience new cultures, and make lifelong memories. We appreciate all that you do!

03/20/2026

We’re excited to highlight one of our amazing staff members - April - who makes an impact every day teaching science at both the middle school and high school level.

April’s dedication to students goes far beyond the classroom - she also coaches track, cross country, and Envirothon, supporting growth, and inspiring curiosity in everything she does.

Thank you for your commitment, passion, and the difference you make in students’ lives every single day.

🧪🏫🏃‍♂️