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Our Issues

NEARI and NEA work at every level on a host of issues to ensure members and students are treated fairly, and the opportunity to access a quality public education is available to all.
NEARI members talking together in front of maps at the State House on Lobby Day 2024. Ryan T. Conaty Photography, All rights reserved

Educating the whole child is about education funding, and it’s about so much more, too. Whether it's lobbying at the Statehouse or action in Congress, our power lies with an informed membership.

Learn more about what we're doing to improve the lives of our students, educators, and families.

Healthy School Meals

When students have access to healthy and nutritious meals, they show up to school energized, focused, and ready to learn.

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Israel Palestine Conflict

The impact of the armed conflict between Israel and Hamas has caused loss of human life in both Israel and Gaza and has left education communities and the whole world in shock.

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Mental Health

Our schools are the center of our communities and should be the safest, most just places. Our students can’t learn if they aren’t well.

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Pension Relief

All of us work hard, providing vital services to our communities, and all of us deserve a secure retirement.

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Stopping Gun Violence

Students need safe environments to learn, live, and grow.

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NEARI members smiling together on a couch at the State House wearing NEARI scarves.

Our Voice = Our Power

When we unite and speak truth to power, we can have an enormous impact. That’s why our members join together to create a future where schools are funded, educators are supported, and students are thriving.
NEARI logo

A labor union and professional organization.

Our Association is a remarkable blend of union and professional organization, with a proud history of serving Rhode Island. Since its inception in 1845, our members have been at the center of every struggle to advance the finest of American dreams: the promise of a quality public education for every child. One in every 100 Rhode Islanders is a member - chances are, you know us already!