The Albert Shanker Institute at 25

The Shanker Institute turns 25 years old this month!

The Shanker Institute was formed in 1998 to honor the life and legacy of AFT President Al Shanker. The organization’s by-laws commit it to four fundamental principles—vibrant democracy, quality public education, a voice for working people in decisions affecting their jobs and their lives, and free and open debate about all of these issues.

From the beginning the Institute has brought together influential leaders and thinkers from business, labor, government, and education from across the political spectrum. ASI continues to sponsor research, promotes discussions, and seek new and workable approaches to the issues that shape the future of democracy, education, and unionism.

These efforts are directed by and accountable to a diverse and distinguished board of directors representing the richness of Al Shanker’s commitments and concerns alongside dedicated permanent staff.

Committed to basic principles, open to new ideas, and addressing the inter-related issues of work, education, and democracy—that has been the vision, the mission, and the method of the Albert Shanker Institute for 25 years.

Throughout the year we will be posting special features about our past accomplishments and future endeavors, such as 5-year timelines; blog posts by Institute founders, present and past board members; videos, as well as special events. We welcome contributions by everyone who would like to share their history with the Institute.