Union spokespersons were starting to feel uncomfortable explaining to the media why they insisted on vaccines being available before returning to the classroom, but wouldn’t insist that teachers get them.

NEA Executive Director Kim Anderson was interviewed on National Public Radio on August 9, and reporter Debbie Elliott was very direct.

“So will the NEA be supporting a mandate that teachers get the COVID vaccine?” she asked.

After a 171-word answer from Anderson that never got around to the question, Elliott persisted.

“So is that a no, you don’t support a vaccine mandate?” she asked.

“Well, we’re looking at that question right now with our leaders,” Anderson replied. “We’re talking with members across the country.”