By TEA President Tanya T. Coats

As the summer sun gives way to the rhythm of morning bells, fresh bulletin boards, and the joyful buzz of students in hallways, we stand on the threshold of a new school year. There is no calling quite like ours. As educators, we don’t just teach curriculum: we shape futures, build character, and foster communities.

Every new school year is a chance to begin again, to pour our passion into this sacred work. But we must also acknowledge the truth: teaching in Tennessee today isn’t easy. We continue to face efforts to privatize our public schools, deny students the resources they deserve, and devalue our profession. From harmful voucher schemes to disrespectful rhetoric, educators are under constant pressure. Yet, here we are—ready, resolute, and unshakably committed.

Why? Because we know our work matters.

We show up, day after day, because we believe in the power of public education. And we believe in each other. I’m reminded of the words sung by Andra Day in her anthem of perseverance:

“And I’ll rise up / I’ll rise like the day / I’ll rise up / I’ll rise unafraid / I’ll rise up / And I’ll do it a thousand times again.”

This is who we are. We rise for our students, our schools, and one another. And as we step into this new year, I want to challenge each of you not only to rise—but to reach.

Reach out to a new teacher who’s feeling overwhelmed. Reach out to a colleague who’s never joined TEA and explain what it means to be part of something bigger than any one of us. Remind them that our collective voice is the only force strong enough to move the mountains we face.

TEA, which turns 160 years young this summer, is not just an association; it’s a movement. It’s the protection we need when decisions from Nashville threaten our classrooms. It’s the advocacy that secures fair pay, respect, and resources. And most importantly, it’s the community that reminds us we are never alone.

If every one of us recruits just one new member, imagine the power we would wield. Our strength is in our numbers, and our story is only as strong as the voices telling it.

This year, as we celebrate 160 years of collective advocacy and action, let’s teach with purpose, advocate with courage, and lead with heart. Let’s celebrate the wins—big and small—and keep each other lifted when the load feels heavy.

Let’s rise, together.

On behalf of the Tennessee Education Association, thank you for the incredible work you do every single day. This is more than a job; it’s a mission. And we’re proud to walk beside you in it.

Have a powerful, purposeful school year—and don’t forget to invite others to join you in TEA. Because when educators unite, we don’t just rise. We soar.