Publications and Resources - AFT Public Education

This publication offers a comprehensive look at autism through the lenses of history, education and civil rights. The guide explores the evolution of autism understanding, key legislation such as IDEA and Section 504, and evidence-based approaches to instruction, behavior support, and social and emotional learning. Emphasizing equity, self-determination and meaningful inclusion, it highlights the voices and experiences of autistic individuals. Designed for educators, parents and students, this resource provides practical guidance for creating more inclusive and empowering learning environments. (2026)

Stronger Together explains how community schools help students, families and neighborhoods by connecting public schools with community resources such as healthcare, family support, after-school programs, and creating space for real partnerships. The guide highlights key community school practices, positive impacts on attendance, achievement and well-being, and examples from New York, Boston and New Mexico showing how schools can become centers of support and opportunity for their communities.

A new AFT evidence-to-action brief highlights a simple truth: Students learn more when lessons connect to their lives, interests and identities. Research shows that social, emotional and academic learning are deeply linked—and when students feel engaged and supported, achievement, persistence and graduation rates improve. The takeaway: Creating meaningful, inclusive and engaging classrooms isn’t something extra—it’s essential for student success. (2026)

When you become a member of the AFT, you help protect our kids and communities. And we help you by offering educator-designed programs and resources that will enhance your professional growth and ensure children thrive. This brochure highlights many of these opportunities. (2026)

This catalog describes our professional development offerings and includes the recommended audience and duration of each course, as well as how to contact us to schedule an event or training. All courses can be customized to meet the unique needs of your local union. (2025)

AFT’s Ad Hoc Committee on Artificial Intelligence in the Classroom has developed and refined these guidelines to assist educators in effectively integrating advanced technology. This resource is intended to help educators optimize the educational benefits of instructional technologies while minimizing potential risks. These guidelines are crafted by our practitioner members, reflecting their firsthand experiences and insights. Additionally, given the rapid advancements in technology and AI, these guidelines will need to be periodically updated to stay current with the evolving landscape. (March 2025)

This report presents key findings from a 2024 survey conducted by the AFT in collaboration with the University of California, Irvine. Over 1,100 educators shared their experiences with mandatory reporting. This publication contextualizes the findings within existing academic research and outlines a comprehensive agenda for mandated support in education.

Educators face stress every day from the strain of managing the trauma and anxiety that are showing up in student behavior, the nonstop paperwork and administrative tasks, and culture wars that make it difficult for educators to teach what students need to know. But it doesn’t have to be that way. By prioritizing educators’ well-being, schools can create an environment that fosters growth, resilience and, ultimately, better education outcomes.