National Education Association defends education "czar" who failed to report student-adult homosexual incident

WASHINGTON - - The National Education Association supports the Department of Education in its efforts to ensure safe schools for all students.

The following may be attributed to NEA President Dennis Van Roekel:

"Kevin Jennings is highly qualified to assist the Department of Education with the essential work of protecting students from violence based on bigotry and ignorance.  His proven track record of success speaks for itself. Mr. Jennings is under attack from conservatives and right-wing groups. One example of poor judgment should not tarnish 20 years of dedication to America’s students.  He has obviously learned from this experience and has dedicated himself to addressing changing school environments and recognizing the societal pressures students face.

"Schools across America are receiving tremendous support from the Department of Education, and the NEA will continue to work with the department to ensure there are adequate resources to prepare teachers and education support professionals to respond to  issues surrounding student safety."

 
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The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional organization, representing 3.2 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators and students preparing to become teachers.Schools across America are receiving tremendous support from the Department of Education and the NEA will continue to work with the Department to ensure there are adequate resources to prepare teachers and education support professionals to respond to issues surrounding student safety.”

CONTACT: NEA Media Relations  (202) 822-7823, newsdeadline@nea.org