Mission Viejo, CA – The Association of American Educators (AAE), a national non-union, professional educator association, announced today the first cohort of Advocacy Fellows. After a rigorous application process, eleven candidates from across the US were selected to contribute their educator voice to local and national education policies that advance the teaching profession to be one that is student oriented, well respected, and personally fulfilling.

“These educators bring a genuine and needed perspective that comes directly from today’s classrooms through serving students,” said the program’s supervisor, McKenzie Allen. “The advocacy work they do allows them to engage with the media, legislators, thought leaders, and the general public.” In her role as AAE Foundation Director of Advocacy, Allen spearheaded and launched the AAE Advocacy Fellowship initiative to provide a more intense level of advocacy training and engagement for AAE members.

AAE Executive Director Colin Sharkey highlighted the activity that the new AAE Advocacy Fellows have already accomplished: “In the short time since its launch, our fellows have published op-eds and letters to the editor in more than a dozen print and digital outlets, met directly with influential legislators, testified on important legislation, and participated in education conference panels.” Sharkey noted, “Their work speaks to the importance our members place on advocating for the best educational opportunities for their students and their communities.”

The Association of American Educators (AAE) is the largest national, non-union, professional educator organization, advancing the profession by offering a modern approach to educator empowerment and advocacy—promoting professionalism, collaboration and excellence without a partisan agenda. AAE is committed to a teaching profession that is student-oriented, well respected, and personally fulfilling. AAE serves members in all fifty states and welcomes professionals from all education entities. Membership is $16.50 per month which includes $2 million professional liability insurance, employment rights coverage, professional resources and many other benefits. Visit aaeteachers.org for further information.

####