Association of American Educators Reacts to 2012 Election

Alexandria, VA– Following four years of unprecedented federal education spending and a push for education reform initiatives via competitive grants, President Barack Obama has been re-elected to a second term.

Following the news, AAE Executive Director Gary Beckner issued the following statement:

"The Association of American Educators would like to congratulate President Barack Obama on his re-election. During his first term, we have often praised the President for his candid assessment of the problems we face in K-12 education. His focus on education reform has truly shined a spotlight on the issues we face as a country.

Our members have supported many of the policies promoted by the Obama administration, including support for public charter schools and a renewed focus on accountability. Moving forward, we hope that President Obama and Secretary of Education Arne Duncan renew their focus on improving our nation's struggling schools.

While policymakers promote new ideas, it's critical that real educators' opinions and experiences are taken into account as these reforms are considered and implemented. Where we see the biggest challenge is in the special interest of the teacher labor unions that time and time again fight to preserve their own self-serving agenda. Given the NEA's massive get-out-the-vote efforts, President Obama's willingness to support relevant policies that conflict with the agenda of his high-profile constituency could prove difficult. Time will tell.

As a member-driven organization, AAE is proud to represent teachers nationwide that are willing to embrace commonsense reform for the sake of our students. For too long, the interests of national teacher labor unions have stalled or blocked policies that would have helped students. We look forward to working with President Obama and the new Congress on effective policy that fairly balances the needs of teachers, parents, students, and communities."

The Association of American Educators (AAE) is the largest national, non-union, professional educators organization, advancing the profession by offering a modern approach to teacher representation and educational advocacy, as well as promoting professionalism, collaboration and excellence without a partisan agenda. AAE members are forward-thinking professionals who are committed to student-centered reform efforts including school/teacher choice, accountability and technology. AAE has members in all 50 states and welcomes professionals from all education entities. Membership is $15 per month which includes $2 million professional liability insurance, employment rights coverage, professional development resources as well as a host of other benefits. Visit aaeteachers.org for further information.