John Stocks, a
graduate of Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington, was named Executive
Director of the National Education Association (NEA) on September 1, 2011. Previously, he served as deputy executive
director of NEA from 2004-2011. As
deputy, Mr. Stocks was responsible for setting NEA’s policy, political and
membership priorities. Under his
leadership, new alliances were built to advance public education and NEA members
were mobilized in support of improving the federal No Child Left Behind law.
From 1990-2004, Mr. Stocks served
as assistant executive director for public affairs at the Wisconsin Education
Association Council (WEAC). In that
position, he had oversight for the Association’s public relations, legislative,
political action, and teaching and learning departments. During his tenure at WEAC,
the organization supported legislative efforts to expand early childhood
education, improve student achievement, lower class sizes and ensure
comprehensive standards for teachers.
Mr. Stocks’ commitment to social
justice has been evidenced in many of the roles he has played throughout his
career. Prior to joining WEAC, he served
as executive director of Idaho Fair Share, a grassroots citizen action
organization dedicated to keeping utility rates affordable for working
families, and he spearheaded legislation on behalf of low and moderate income
utility ratepayers. In 1988, Mr. Stocks
ran for the Idaho state senate, defeating a four-term incumbent. His
legislative record includes successfully shepherding a bill to improve
protections for people facing bankruptcy due to family medical crises. He served
as chief architect of the Idaho Senate Democrats’ re-election plans, securing
seven new Senate seats and protecting all incumbents over three election
cycles. Mr. Stocks has been honored by
the Midwest Academy, a grassroots training institute with a long tradition of
preparing progressive leaders. He was also honored by the Ballot Initiative
Strategy Center for his innovative work in ballot measure campaigning, winning
difficult battles in support of students, educators and the middle class.