Common Core: Do What It Takes Before High Stakes

In her latest column appearing in the New York Times, AFT president Randi Weingarten writes about the promise—and the possible pitfalls—of the new Common Core State Standards. If implemented properly—namely, by ensuring that frontline educators are prepared to teach these rigorous new standards—we can provide all children with the problem-solving, critical-thinking and teamwork skills they need to compete in today’s changing world. If not, they will end up in the dustbin of abandoned reforms. Read her full column.

Teachers support Common Core and moratorium on stakes

Three-quarters of public school teachers surveyed support the Common Core State Standards, yet just 27 percent said their district has provided them with the tools and resources necessary to teach the standards, according to the results of a new AFT poll.

more

Healing Our Healthcare System

In her latest column appearing in the New York Times, AFT president Randi Weingarten talks about the accomplishments to date of the Affordable Care Act, even in its early stages. And she discusses the vital role that nurses and healthcare workers—the AFT is one of the largest unions of nurses in the country—play in enhancing patient care and improving the healthcare system. Read Weingarten's column.

AFT uses toolkit of info to battle dangerous stereotypes in film "Won't Back Down"

A film soon to be in theaters called “Won’t Back Down” uses moving characters to drive home the sense of urgency parents and educators feel to do everything they can to provide the best possible education for their children. That urgency is real, but the film unfairly uses stereotypes to deliver the wrong message. Learn how you can respond.

more

Pages