News from AFT Teachers Archive

Current Issue - May 2026

The technology trap

In her latest column, AFT President Randi Weingarten writes that when it comes to classroom instruction, educators and parents are calling for “devices down, eyes up, hands on” learning. Last week, she joined other leaders in Washington, D.C., to ask that regular people, not just billionaires, have a say in the future of work with artificial intelligence. Check out the AFT’s National Academy for AI Instruction for an on-demand, one-hour session, “Critical Thinking in the Age of AI.”

Celebrate AANHPI Heritage month

Explore standards-aligned lesson plans and resources to celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander heritage in your classroom. This K-12 collection supports educators and families with classroom-ready activities for AANHPI Heritage Month and beyond. Discover stories of leaders in politics, science, sports and the arts while teaching students about the history of racism, resilience and identity. These resources are ideal for social studies, English language arts, and social and emotional learning integration, and they help promote culturally responsive teaching, empathy and equity. The resources also perfect for classroom discussion, homework or community projects.

A graphic that says AFT Book Club A Conversation Jonathan Kozol

AFT Book Club: Exploring racial gaps in education

Join AFT President Randi Weingarten for a powerful conversation with renowned educator and bestselling author Jonathan Kozol, discussing his latest book, We Shall Not Bow Down: Children of Color Under Siege—An Invocation to Resistance on May 17. For more than five decades, Kozol has challenged the nation to confront the deep inequalities in public education. In his book, he returns to schools and communities across the country to examine the enduring realities of racial segregation, unequal resources and the barriers that continue to limit opportunity for many students. Sign up here.

Register for your free AFT Affordability Clinic

Medical bills, student loans and credit cards are pushing too many working families to the brink. That’s why the AFT is hosting free Affordability Clinics as part of our Fight for Affordability campaign. Learn how to reduce, dispute and manage your debt—and understand your rights. Register for an upcoming clinic.

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American Educator explores AI

In the Spring 2026 issue of American Educator, learn from educators and researchers how smartphones and social media are reshaping adolescence, why schools across the country are reconsidering cellphone policies, and how engaging students’ emotions and embracing their cultural identities deepen learning and engagement. You’ll also read about how educators like you are also using AI tools to enhance lesson planning and creativity.

A photo of teachers and students in a classroom using a laptop.

St. Paul educators keep humans in control of AI

St. Paul, Minn. educators are helping define what it means to keep AI in its proper place: as a tool, not a substitute for teachers. When district leaders could not rule out future job cuts tied to artificial intelligence, the union responded by bargaining for contract language that keeps human judgment, relationships and accountability at the center of the classroom. The result is one of the nation’s first K-12 contracts with explicit AI safeguards.

Teacher appreciation means free books

For Teacher Appreciation Week, the AFT is partnering with First Book to offer AFT members serving kids in need the opportunity to choose $35 worth of brand-new books for free from the First Book Marketplace when you use promo code AFTTHANKYOU26. This offer is for AFT members who are signed up with First Book. Sign up for free and gain instant access to an incredible selection of low-cost, diverse books at low prices through the First Book Marketplace. It's first come, first served. Don't wait!

Free Substack subscription to Contrarians

The Contrarian, an independent, pro-democracy digital publication on Substack, is offering AFT members a free three-month subscription, including access to “Contrarians in the Classroom,” its education-focused content. It’s a thoughtful, independent take on the most current issues shaping public education and the broader political landscape. Use code AFT2026 to sign up. Please share this opportunity with your AFT colleagues today!

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