Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/879719
34 ADVOCATE | FALL 2017 National Perspective "I will not allow the National Education Association to be used by Donald Trump or Betsy DeVos," Eskelsen García told the delegates to resounding applause. "I do not trust their motives. I do not believe their alternative facts. I see no reason to assume they will do what is best for our students and their families. There will be no photo-op!" Day Two turned the spotlight on professional practice and two outstanding educators, 2017 NEA Education Support Professional (ESP) of the Year Saul Ramos, and 2017 National Teacher of the Year Sydney Chaffee. In his speech to the assembly, Ramos, a paraeducator in Worchester, Mass., urged the delegates to live up to the promise of the RA's theme: "Uniting Our Members and the Nation for Strong Communities, Empowered Professionals, Successful Students." "It is more important than ever for all of us to unite and support public education," Ramos said. "ESP members, NEA-retired members, teachers, higher education and student members, and parents— we must all stand strong together, and let our elected leaders know what we need as educators to nurture successful students." One of the indisputable highlights of the 2017 RA for the delegates was the appearance of LeVar Burton, this year's recipient of NEA's highest honor, the Friend of Education Award. In his speech, Burton, host of the long-running PBS children's series, "Reading Rainbow," fired on all cylinders, taking down Betsy DeVos, saluting the impact his mother (a teacher) had on his life, and passionately calling for adequate funding of public education and greater respect for educators. "I believe that what you have to offer is essential to this nation," Burton said. "And our desire to lead the world in any meaningful manner depends on you… Without you, we go nowhere." Arizona Delegation at the NEA 155th Annual Meeting held at the Boston Convention Center Princess R. Moss, NEA Secretary-Treasurer, delivering an address on Professional Practice during the NEA RA.