In Ohio, the Cincinnati Federation of Teachers partnered with local churches and community organizations to distribute more than 5,000 free books to over 1,200 children and families during the sixth annual "A Day of Blessing." Supported by an AFT grant and First Book, CFT is helping ensure more students head into the school year with books of their own while strengthening literacy across the community.

In New Mexico, the Albuquerque Teachers Federation welcomed new educators with free classroom supplies through the Educator's Emporium, where retired teachers donated materials to help stock empty classrooms. By connecting experienced and new educators, the union is helping teachers start the school year ready to support their students.

In New York, New York State United Teachers, Micron, NY CREATES, school districts and community colleges are helping students prepare for careers in advanced manufacturing through the Advanced Technology Framework. Now in its second year across a dozen schools, the program gives students hands-on experience with industry equipment, access to semiconductor research labs and the skills they need for careers in a growing industry.

In New York, the Baldwinsville Teachers Association, Baldwinsville Central School District and Micron are giving 30 students paid, hands-on construction experience through a summer career-connected learning program. Guided by dedicated educators and local industry professionals, students are building a farm stand for a local farmer while gaining practical skills, exploring careers in the building trades and making meaningful connections with their community.

In Texas, members of the Houston Federation of Teachers rallied to support Bellaire High School student Alim Garipov after he was detained by ICE, writing character reference letters highlighting his leadership, academic achievement and contributions to the school. Their advocacy reflects the deep relationships educators build with students and their commitment to standing by students during difficult moments.

In West Virginia, Education West Virginia members sprang into action after devastating floods impacted communities across the state. By collecting and delivering supplies to affected families in Lewis and Upshur counties, local leaders and members demonstrated how educators support their communities both inside and outside the classroom.

In New York, fourth- and fifth-grade students in the nationally recognized PS 22 Chorus performed alongside Coldplay during the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final halftime show. Before a global audience of an estimated 1.5 billion viewers, the Staten Island students showcased the power of public school arts education while representing their school and community on one of the world's biggest stages.

Three students from the Robert Halmi Sr. Academy of Film and Television in Yonkers, New York, spoke to thousands of AFT members at the union's convention about the importance of career and technical education. They shared how hands-on learning gave them real-world skills, confidence and a path to their futures.

More than 16,000 educators from across the country signed up for Share My Lesson's 2026 Summer of Learning, taking advantage of more than 30 free professional development webinars on topics including AI, literacy, student wellbeing and civic engagement. The annual program helps educators sharpen their skills, earn professional development credit and head into the new school year with fresh ideas and classroom-ready resources.

In Massachusetts, the Boston Teachers Union helped bring children and families together for a Kick-off Into Reading Book Giveaway as part of the city's World Cup Watch Party. Members distributed thousands of free books, while Boston Legacy FC players shared stories about their careers and favorite books, encouraging children to keep reading all summer long.

In New York, Capital Region BOCES Faculty Association member Donald Mattoon is helping students build confidence through hands-on welding and metal fabrication projects. By teaching teamwork, problem-solving and a strong work ethic alongside technical skills, he's preparing students for success in whatever path they choose.

In Kentucky, KY 120 United-AFT joined the Bluegrass Central Labor Council's Fourth of July celebration and distributed 500 multicultural books to children and families. By bringing their community together around reading and solidarity, members demonstrated the power of working people standing together.

In Texas, Houston Educational Support Personnel members are helping ensure children have access to healthy meals throughout the summer. By supporting the Summer Meals Program, they're making sure students and families can count on nutritious breakfasts and lunches while school is out.

In Pennsylvania, the Scranton Federation of Teachers is helping strengthen literacy through a districtwide initiative grounded in the science of reading. With support for educator training and evidence-based instruction, teachers are helping students build strong reading and writing skills that set them up for success.

​​In Minnesota, Minneapolis Federation of Educators member Maureen Mulvaney is helping students strengthen their reading, writing and critical thinking by creating a classroom with fewer digital distractions. By trusting her professional expertise and partnering with families, she's showing how educator-led solutions can help students thrive.