Federal Policy Resources
As changes from Washington, D.C. are announced with uncertain and potentially damaging impacts for our public schools, students, and communities, it can be hard to find reliable and comprehensive information. This page serves as a clearinghouse of information that educators may find useful to navigate the implications of major federal policy changes. Be sure to visit the National Education Association’s website and Education Justice pages for the latest information.
Immigration Resources
Immigration issues may seem complicated, but some things are simple. We must uphold the Constitutional right of all children in the United States to receive a K-12 education, regardless of their immigration status. For guidance from NEA on immigration issues, educator rights regarding immigration enforcement, safe zone policies, and more, click here.
LGBTQ+ Resources
Our LGBTQ+ students need us to ensure our schools are places where all students are protected and empowered. For NEA trainings, resource guides, summaries of your rights and protections, and more, click here.
Racial and Social Justice
Racial and social justice are education justice. Every child, regardless of their zip code or background, deserves equitable access to opportunities, resources, and supports. For racial and social justice resources and guidance from NEA, click here. For MSEA’s racial-social justice strategy, organizing, and action resource pages, click here.
Legal Resources
Looking for legal guidance? NEA’s legal and employment guidance resource library is here; you can also find legal resources on specific issue areas from MSEA here. Make sure to reach out to your local association and UniServ director for advice regarding any specific situations that you may be facing.
Detailing the Impact of Cuts to USDE
Deep cuts to the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) is bad policy and hurts kids. While it might sound like a distant bureaucracy, the people and programs that the department supports are in every one of our communities. About 11% of funding for Maryland public schools flows through USDE. USDE provides funding that helps students in poverty, students receiving special education services, and students attending college. Its mission is also to defend civil rights in our schools.
Click here to learn more about the impact and funding that USDE and its programs have in Maryland.