Teachers leaving the industry after disrespect from governing bodies

Princess Moss, Vice President of the National Education Association, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to talk about finding a career in a union after seeking to help her fellow teachers in Virginia. Moss also spoke about the issues teachers face today and how respecting their work could help prevent more teachers from leaving the education field.

Early on in her life, Moss’ parents - both public school bus drivers - helped to instill the importance of education in her. Following their instruction, Moss went to college and eventually became an elementary school music teacher in Louisa County, Virginia. After hearing her coworkers discuss their financial struggles, she presented these concerns to the Local Union, and they suggested that during negotiations she should present the new contract proposal to the school. Thus began her journey on the union side. Moss later led the Virginia Education Association as President. In 2020, she was elected Vice President of the NEA, the largest public sector union in the U.S. 

While navigating the pandemic was not easy, the challenges during that time enlightened the public on a new level of resiliency. Moss witnessed teachers and students weather many difficulties, and they have overcome those challenges stronger, ready to fight for a better future in education.

She said teachers in public schools across America are dealing with more difficulties than ever before. Educators are disrespected by their employers, school boards and legislators. With mounting disrespect and low compensation, teachers are making the difficult decision to leave the profession. Moss talked about the way that the public and legislators can help to bring more teachers back to the industry, and what it would mean for these teachers to be compensated fairly for their work.

Listen to the show above to hear more from Moss.