Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1393382
AROUND AEA 6 ADVOCATE | SUMMER 2021 T he AEA Delegate Assembly is the highest decision-making body within AEA and is also Arizona's largest democratic deliberative body. In past years, delegates would debate vital issues that impact public education and set Association policy and activities for the year ahead over the course of three business sessions spanning two days. Due to the ongoing pandemic, the AEA Board of Directors voted on February 6, 2021, for the 2021 Delegate Assembly scheduled for May 7-8, 2021, to be held virtually. About 350 delegates took part in the virtual 2021 Delegate Assembly heard from keynote speakers, including the 2021 Arizona Teacher of the Year, Sara Wyffels, and debate items of importance to AEA. ese items included potential amendments to the AEA Constitution, Bylaws, Resolutions, or Legislative Platform, as well as new business items related to the operation or program areas of AEA. Delegates also voted for members to serve on the AEA Board of Directors. See new board members on page 15. 125 AEA members attended the fi st virtual AEA Summer Institute on June 17-18, 2021. Prior to the pandemic, AEA held an annual summer leadership conference for local leaders to gain skills they will need to organize their local associations and prepare for back to school new employee events. This year's event was held virtually and included sessions covering advocacy, bargaining, school board election campaigns, and organizing for power. Attendees also heard from keynote speakers NEA President Becky Pringle and NEA Executive Director Kim Anderson who spoke about the power of collective voice and action and the tremendous opportunity to make a difference using the money NEA lobbied for schools through the passage of the American Rescue Plan. Over 300 Members Attend Virtual Delegate Assembly Education Leaders Plan and Prepare for Next Year at Summer Institute