Happy Summer Break, EAN!

We made it—and what a year it’s been! Across Norfolk Public Schools, you have shown up for your students, your schools, and each other in ways that truly inspire. And as a union, we’ve accomplished so much together:

• Stopped the certification of the Anti-DEI pledge, making Norfolk the first division in Virginia to take a public stand for equity and inclusion.
  
  

• Helped shape the school closure conversation, securing union representation on the Educational and Facilities Planning Advisory Committee.
  
  

• Became proud partners in the Hampton Roads Collective Bargaining Coalition and the Norfolk Vision Now Coalition.
  
  

• Began the work with NVN to launch Public Schools Strong Norfolk, building community power to defend and invest in our public schools.
  
  

EAN has been BUSY this year—and we’ve only just begun. Let’s enjoy this well-earned summer break, but let’s also keep the energy alive as we prepare for even more wins in the year ahead.

Before you sign off for the summer, we’re asking you to do three quick things:

	1. Complete the EAN Spring 2025 Survey Help guide our organizing priorities for next year by sharing your experiences and concerns. Take the Survey
2. Sign Up for the EAN Summer Member Organizing Series Sharpen your organizing skills and help build a strong, connected union core. Register Here
	3. RSVP for the Summer Social! Join us and the Chesapeake Education Association for fun, food, and solidarity at Chesapeake City Park on June 7th from 1:00–4:00 PM. RSVP Now

Thank you for being a part of this powerful movement. Rest up—you’ve earned it. But don’t forget: we’re just getting started.

In solidarity,
James Parker
President, Education Association of Norfolk