As we were about to send this edition of the Voice to print, President Joe Biden ended his re-election bid. By the time you see this magazine we’ll know more, but two things are certain.

First, Joe Biden deserves our thanks as educators and union members for his tireless efforts for students and workers alike. Record federal funding for schools through the American Rescue Plan. An educator as Secretary of Education. Billions in student loan forgiveness for educators.  Free school meals – because we know hungry kids can’t learn. All thanks to Biden’s leadership.

Second, the stakes are still high this fall and there’s more work to be done. It’s time to get in the game for our students — because our work will ensure they receive the great public education they deserve.

From the White House and the U.S. Capitol to the State House and local school boards, the future of public education is on the ballot. The future of adequate, equitable funding for education is on the ballot. Our momentum as a state and nation are on the ballot.

We should celebrate wins, like the recent budget victory that gives 100,000 school employees across Michigan 3% of their salaries back. Many hardworking educators have sacrificed from their wages for over a decade to help pay off debt on the state’s school retiree health care plan, which is now fully funded.

Combined with a reduction in districts’ retirement payroll taxes, schools can invest more in students and staff. (Learn more at MEA.org/legislation.)

Next, let’s work to make these changes permanent and re-invest in student mental health and safety. Let’s work on health insurance costs and pension restoration.

This issue shows how working together leads to great things. To keep winning, we need every MEA team member playing their part. This fall and all school year, it’s Game On for Our Students.

In Solidarity Always,

Chandra Madafferi, MEA President

Brett Smith, MEA Vice President

Aaron Eling, MEA Secretary-Treasurer