The Albert Shanker Institute is a nonprofit organization established in 1998 to honor the life and legacy of the late president of the American Federation of Teachers; we are committed to three fundamental principles:
Vibrant Democracy
Strengthen, defend, and extend democracy as the best guarantor of universal civil and human rights, at home and around the world, in every facet of life and for every person.
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Quality Public Education
Strengthen and recognize public education as a cornerstone of democracy, where schools encourage critical thinking enabling all students to be well-informed and engaged citizens.
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A Voice for Working People
Strengthen the essential role of unions in a democracy as organizations that offer workers a voice, lift living standards, enhance institutions, and promote the common good.
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Research | Commentary
July Jul23, 2025
When Teachers Teach Teachers, Teachers Learn
Guest author Kata Solow highlights a model of PD that bridges the research-to-practice gap by providing teachers with concrete examples of great literacy instruction.
July Jul10, 2025
Guest author Giselle Lundy-Ponce highlights the success of Colorín Colorado, an online resource hub developed by the AFT and public television station WETA, to provide educators of English language learners (ELLs) with evidence-based resources, best practices, and information to help their students read and succeed.
June Jun12, 2025
The Citizen’s Republic: Power From the People
Guest author Erica McPheeters writes that the survival of democracy in the U.S. depends on participation of its citizens.