NEA-NH Endorses Clinton in 2016 Primary

The National Education Association-New Hampshire (NEA-NH), the state’s largest educator and public employee union, announced its endorsement of Hillary Clinton for president on Sept. 14, 2015, throwing the support of more than 16,000 members and their families behind Clinton during New Hampshire’s first-in-the-nation primary campaign, according to a press statement.

“Hillary Clinton has been a tireless fighter for both students and educators throughout her career,” said Scott McGilvray, NEA-NH President. “From her days going door-to-door to help improve access to public education to her fight in the Senate pushing back against harmful measures that would damage our public schools, Hillary has proven over and over again that she puts students and educators first. Hillary understands the power of a strong public education system and the difference a quality education will make in a child’s life, and she is ready to stand up for our teachers, strengthen our education system, and ensure that every child in America has access to a quality public education that will prepare them for lifelong educational and economic achievement.”

The union’s vice president, Megan Tuttle, a teacher from Pembroke added, “Hillary’s call for universal pre-K in Rochester earlier this year shows that she understands the vital role public education plays in helping our children succeed. Hillary understands how important it is that every child has the same access to quality early childhood education so that they get off to the right start on their path to lifelong educational achievement. We need a president like Hillary who will expand and strengthen access to public education, not make damaging cuts that restrict our children’s opportunities.”

Allison Estes Brown, Plymouth special education teacher, in endorsing the New Hampshire first-in-the-nation Democrat candidate, stated, “She has fought back against damaging voucher programs and counterproductive standards that harm schools instead of help them. Hillary understands the difference committed, talented teachers make in a child’s life, and she is ready to take action to ensure that our public schools are staffed with the best and brightest Americans ... Hillary has consistently stood up for public educators and worked to ensure that our public schools receive the support they need.”

NEA-NH’s recommendation process began in May and included face-to face interviews by a representative committee of teachers, education support professionals and retired members. Its recommendation was forwarded to NEA-NH’s member-elected Executive Board for comment and approval. The entire process is described in detail on NEA-NH’s website: neanh.org.