Why nÉE?
The name New Era Educators (NÉE) is more than a title—it’s a declaration of transformation. The French word née, meaning “born,” symbolizes a rebirth in education—one where curiosity, innovation, and empowerment take center stage.
We use the accent mark intentionally, honoring the idea that education is not stagnant but ever-evolving, constantly being reborn to meet the needs of today’s learners.
NÉE is a movement, a renaissance, and a revolution ~ because the future of education is not something we inherit; it’s something we create.
We believe …
⚡️ The old model of education was built for a different era ~ today, learning must evolve to meet the needs of a rapidly changing world.
⚡️ Intelligence is not about memorization or recitation; true learning is about curiosity, connection, and critical thinking.
⚡️ Students are not empty vessels to be filled with information ~ they are capable, self-directed learners who deserve trust and agency.
⚡️ Technology, when misused, disconnects us more than it connects us, becoming a major blocker to engagement, deep thinking, and meaningful learning.
⚡️ Every student learns differently ~ embracing differentiation isn’t optional; it’s essential.
⚡️ The most important skill isn’t test-taking ~ it’s self-knowledge. Students need to understand how they learn best and how to trust themselves without judgment.
⚡️ Mistakes aren’t failures ~ they are the foundation of growth. Learning should be a process of exploration, not punishment.
⚡️ Education should not be about compliance ~ it should be about curiosity, connection, and lifelong learning.
🔥 This is the new era of education. 🔥
Meet The Founder !
Dr. Ann Szekely,EdD
Founder, New Era Educators
Ann Szekely has spent her career inside classrooms and alongside educators, doing the real work where it matters most. From urban schools in Chicago and Milwaukee to national conversations on education reform, she has seen firsthand what happens when teachers are given the trust, autonomy, and support they need—and what happens when they aren’t.
Ann founded New Era Educators to create a space where teachers are heard, not just managed. She doesn’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions or prescriptive professional development. Instead, she believes teachers are the experts in their own practice ~ and they deserve a place to connect, share what’s working, and push back against outdated systems that no longer serve students or educators.
Her work has always been about people over policy. She has worked in inner-city schools in Chicago and Milwaukee, helping students and teachers navigate resource disparities, systemic challenges, and the ever-growing demands placed on educators. She knows that real change doesn’t happen through top-down mandates—it happens when teachers are given the space to do what they do best.
At the core of New Era Educators is Ann’s belief that education should be about curiosity, connection, and lifelong learning ~ not just standardized tests and compliance. She’s here to help teachers reclaim their classrooms, reignite their love for teaching, and build a new era of education—together.
When she’s not working to reshape education, Ann volunteers at the Milwaukee Mitchell Park Domes, a space that reflects her love for growth and renewal. She spends summers soaking up the peace of Beaver Lake, enjoys gardening, and finds joy in playing with her adopted Spaniels ~ Z and Rhubarb.
IRL
