Association of American Educators Supports the HELPER Act

Mission Viejo, CA – The Association of American Educators (AAE), a national non-union, professional association serving educators in all fifty states, is calling on Congress to support the bipartisan Home for Every Local Protector, Educator, and Responder (HELPER) Act.

“Educators have always given more than is expected of them, often working long hours and spending hundreds of dollars annually to ensure their students receive a quality education,” stated AAE Executive Director Colin Sharkey. “Despite their commitment to their communities, too many of our nation’s educators find it difficult to afford their first home.”

In response, the HELPER Act, introduced by U.S. Representatives John H. Rutherford, Al Lawson, John Katko, and Bonnie Watson Coleman, would create a home loan program similar to the VA home loan program that is currently managed by the Department of Veteran Affairs. The program would allow educators to access a low-interest home loan insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) without requiring a down payment or monthly mortgage insurance costs. The program builds upon the FHA’s Good Neighbor Next Door Program and would be available to K-12 educators and other community servants, including law enforcement officers, fire fighters, EMTs, and paramedics.

“Our educators have continued to step up to the challenge of providing a quality education for their students, despite numerous challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic,” added Sharkey. “They deserve our support, and enabling them to access affordable housing is one way to ensure we honor them for their commitment to our students and our communities.”

The Association of American Educators (AAE) is the largest national, nonunion, 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 and includes $2 million professional liability insurance, employment rights coverage, professional resources, and many other benefits. Classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, administrators, student teachers, university professors, and supporters can learn more at aaeteachers.org.