Special District NEA

08/24/2026

SDNEA hopes everyone had a great first day back with students, whether it was today or later this week. We look forward to an amazing year and want all of our members to know we continue to be here for you every day.
If you are not a member it is not to late to join.
Thank you for everything you do for our students everyday.

08/14/2026

See below for our SDNEA Welcome Back email from President McGrellis. If you didn’t receive it and are a member, please contact us.

07/09/2026

The most powerful you’ll ever be as a voter is the moment you’re asked to give your power away.

This isn’t about Republicans or Democrats.

It’s about whether Missouri citizens should keep their voice- or hand more authority to politicians.

———

•Amendment 4

Supporters say it’s about making sure “small towns matter just as much as big cities.”

I agree that every Missourian matters.

But that’s not what this amendment actually changes.

Today, if Missouri citizens place a constitutional amendment on the ballot, it passes with a simple statewide majority.

Amendment 4 changes the rules only for citizen-led amendments.

Instead of majority rule, citizens would now have to win a statewide majority AND a majority in all eight congressional districts.

Think about that.

A proposal supported by an overwhelming majority of Missouri voters could still fail if voters in just one congressional district voted against it. That’s no longer majority rule.

As little as 5% voting no could negate 95% voting yes.

But here’s the part I can’t get past…

Politicians don’t have to play by those same rules.

Politicians can still make their own propositions- and pass on a simple majority.

So we’re not protecting majority rule.

We’re creating one set of rules for the people… and another set of rules for the government.

We’re being asked to give politicians more control over what citizens can accomplish through the ballot box.

While also LESSENING penalties on voter fraud and election interference.. 🧐

⸻

•Amendment 5

Everyone likes the idea of paying less in taxes.

But constitutional amendments should answer one important question:

“What happens next?”

Missouri’s income tax generates roughly $8.4 billion each year—about 64% of the state’s general revenue.

This amendment doesn’t provide a detailed replacement plan.

Instead, it permanently changes our Constitution while leaving future lawmakers to decide how that lost revenue will be replaced.

The Missouri Legislature already has the authority to reduce or eliminate the income tax. They don’t need a constitutional amendment to do that.

What this amendment does do is give politicians the constitutional authority to replace that revenue without requiring Missouri voters to approve those future tax changes at the ballot box.

To me, that’s asking voters to sign a blank check and trust that future politicians will fill in the details later.

⸻

No matter where you stand politically, I hope you’ll look past the campaign slogans.

These amendments aren’t just about today’s issues.

They’re about who holds the power tomorrow.

Because once we vote to give power away, history shows it’s a lot harder to get it back than it is to keep it.

Read the amendments for yourself.

Ask questions.

Think critically.

Then cast your vote knowing exactly what powers you’re choosing to keep- and what powers you’re choosing to hand over.

07/07/2026

07/07/2026

07/05/2026

Yesterday was our first full day of the NEA Representative Assembly, and we got right to work.

Delegates spent the day digging into the business of our union—collaborating, debating, and making decisions that will shape the future of public education and our profession.

After a full day of work, we celebrated with our union brothers and sisters at Missouri Night before ending the evening at the Black Caucus “Party with a Purpose.” It was the perfect reminder that our union is strengthened not only by the work we do on the floor, but by the relationships we build and the communities we celebrate.

Ten of your SDNEA leaders are so excited to be in Denver representing our members, advocating for public education, and ensuring your voice is part of the national conversation. Next year it could be you!!!! ❤️💙

07/04/2026

❤️🤍💙 Happy Fourth of July from SDNEA!

Today we celebrate the ideals of freedom, opportunity, and democracy while recognizing that public education is one of the strongest ways we protect those values.

Every day, educators help students learn to think critically, ask thoughtful questions, respect different perspectives, and become engaged members of their communities. That’s work worth celebrating.

As you enjoy time with family and friends, thank an educator who helps keep the promise of public education alive for every student.

Have a safe and happy Fourth of July! 🇺🇸

07/04/2026

The first official day of the 2026 NEA Representative Assembly is complete!

This week, 10 SDNEA leaders are in Denver representing our local, learning alongside educators from across the country, and bringing the voices of our members into the work of the Representative Assembly.

Yesterday we picked up our credentials, attended the first Missouri Caucus, and connected with colleagues from across the state as we prepared for the days ahead. We also took time to build relationships and enjoy this incredible host city—cheering at a soccer match, sharing laughs at Casa Bonita, and ending the evening at the Human & Civil Rights Dinner, recognizing individuals whose work continues to make a difference in the lives of students and educators.

We’re grateful for the opportunity to represent SDNEA and look forward to the important work that begins today. Thank you for trusting us to be your voice this week!

06/19/2026

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Texas finally learned they were free—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

Today we honor the resilience, strength, and contributions of Black Americans while recognizing that the pursuit of justice and equity continues.

Public education plays a critical role in helping students understand our nation’s history and preparing them to build a more just future.

SDNEA celebrates Juneteenth and the enduring values of freedom, dignity, and opportunity for all.

06/19/2026

The #1 indicator of student success and growth isn’t a program, curriculum, or test score—it’s educator satisfaction.

When educators are supported, valued, and empowered, students thrive.

Learn more about what’s happening in Ferguson-Florissant School District and how you can stand up for the students, educators, and community members who deserve better. Your voice matters!!!