National Education Association of New Mexico

On National Special Education Day, we honor the incredible Professionals who make a life-changing impact on students with disabilities across the country.
We thank the SPED teachers, SPED assistants, Therapists & Diagnosticians who show up every day with patience, creativity, and a true heart for kids. Whether they’re writing IEPs, collaborating with teachers, adapting lessons, or advocating for students behind the scenes, their work matters in ways most people never see, but our students feel every day.

The date marks the anniversary of the signing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) on December 2, 1975. The law that guaranteed students with disabilities the right to a free and appropriate public education. This federal legislation reflects the federal government’s commitment to provide a free appropriate public education to students with disabilities and pay 40 percent of the additional cost, but that commitment remains unfulfilled, and more than ever, at risk. Together we recommit to the American promise of a free and appropriate education for each and every student.

Take Action 📲 https://www.nea.org/advocating-for-change/ action-center/our-issues/special-education.

On National Special Education Day, we honor the incredible educators and support staff who make a life-changing impact on students with disabilities across the country.
We thank the SPED teachers, SPED assistants, Therapists & Diagnosticians who show up every day with patience, creativity, and a true heart for kids. Whether they’re writing IEPs, collaborating with teachers, adapting lessons, or advocating for students behind the scenes, their work matters in ways most people never see, but our students feel every day.

The date marks the anniversary of the signing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) on December 2, 1975. The law that guaranteed students with disabilities the right to a free and appropriate public education. This federal legislation reflects the federal government’s commitment to provide a free appropriate public education to students with disabilities and pay 40 percent of the additional cost, but that commitment remains unfulfilled, and more than ever, at risk. Together we recommit to the American promise of a free and appropriate education for each and every student.
https://www.nea.org/advocating-for-change/ action-center/our-issues/special-education.

We are thankful for you!
The holiday weekend went way too fast.
But we know so many children are looking forward to the school day with you tomorrow. Not everyone had a great weekend.

Across the nation, hear why educators are thankful for being part of a union. "It’s a comfort to be a part of a union when it comes to speaking up about any problems. People are always afraid of retaliation if they raise concerns, but you have a lot less fear with the union behind you because they will step in and have your back."

In their own words, NEA members share why they are thankful for the work and support of the NEA, our state affiliates and our local associations.

Why We Are Thankful for Our Union | NEA In their own words, NEA members share why they are thankful for the work and support of the NEA, our state affiliates and our local associations.

As educators, we know that the words we choose matter. They shape our classrooms, our school communities, and the way our students see themselves and each another. That is why I want to speak clearly and firmly: the use of the "R-word" is harmful, derogatory, and always unacceptable.
This language has a long and painful history of devaluing people with disabilities. It has no place in our schools, our workplaces, or our conversations. NEA-New Mexico stands unequivocally against language that demeans, excludes, or diminishes any member of our community.
As educators, we model respect. We teach empathy.
And we work every day to ensure that every student— and every colleague-feels valued, safe, and included.
Our commitment to dignity is not optional; it is foundational to who we are as a profession and as a union.
I encourage all members to join me in choosing words that uplift, in correcting harmful language when we hear it, and in creating spaces where every individual is treated with the respect they deserve. Together, we can build a culture that reflects the best of us and honors the dignity of every person.

Share if you agree ❤️

Bethany Jarrell
NEA NM President

IDEA is 50 today — and it’s never been more at risk. Federal cuts and threats to move IDEA oversight outside of the Department of Education put decades of progress for students with disabilities at risk. 📲 TAKE ACTION:Tell your members of Congress how IDEA funding helps your students, and ask them to support the IDEA Full Funding Act: https://www.nea.org/advocating-for-change/action-center/take-action/fully-fund-idea-title-i

50 Years of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
Before IDEA, there was no measure of whether students with disabilities were receiving an appropriate education. But there is much more the law can accomplish. Education is under attack & NEA has taken legal action to block the destruction of the Department of Education and supports a bipartisan push in Congress to fully fund IDEA. What Can You Do?
📲 Tell your members of Congress how IDEA funding helps your students, and ask them to support the IDEA Full Funding Act: https://www.nea.org/advocating-for-change/action-center/take-action/fully-fund-idea-title-i

On Native American Heritage Day, we pause to acknowledge and honor the vibrant cultures, enduring traditions, and invaluable contributions of Native peoples across our nation. 📚We can learn about and celebrate Native people through the books we read. Celebrate National American Indian Heritage Month with these Read Across books: https://www.nea.org/professional-excellence/student-engagement/tools-tips/native-american-alaska-native-and-first-nations-booklists

🍁 We are thankful for the incredible teachers, dedicated support staff, caring parents, and communities that nurture the growth of our students. Your dedication and tireless efforts to ensure the success of each and every student inspires us all. Wishing all who celebrate a Thanksgiving filled with warmth, joy, and the recognition you truly deserve.

Last minute shopping? Support workers!

The 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act is a moment to honor progress and recommit to the work ahead. Before IDEA passed in 1975, more than a million children with disabilities were excluded from public schools or given little to no access to learning. IDEA opened the door to equal education and the resources schools need to support every student.

As we head into the holiday season, it’s a good time to remind friends and family why protecting students’ rights still matters. NEA Today has gathered thoughtful ways to help guide those conversations. ⤵️

Because we are Professionals… We are rewriting again! YES our work is critical!
That is PRECISELY why we need to care for ourselves.
We thank the many members who advocate!
Not a member? Join us! https://nea-nm.org/
membership-join/