The statewide #RedForEd movement began as a grassroots effort for educators to alert the legislature of their needs. Those needs include a higher rate of pay for teachers and support staff, an emphasis on retaining qualified instructors and more money being spent per pupil in Arizona. Two weeks ago, following a statewide “walk-in,” Governor Doug Ducey said he is, “continuing investments in Arizona’s education system by increasing teacher salaries 20 percent by the beginning of the 2020 school year.”
While teachers were appreciative of the pay increase, they felt their needs were still not met. The president of the Arizona Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Beth Semik said, “The 20 by 2020 proposal at initial onset met with the Arizona PTA’s legislative platform priorities.” However, after further review, she said, “In light of the funding streams regarding the plan, we can no longer support the Governor’s proposal.” That sentiment was shared by Save Our Schools Arizona as well, “It is clear now that the existing proposal is not sustainable or comprehensive as a means of increasing educator pay and re-investing in Arizona’s classrooms and schools,” the group said in a press release.
In addition to these groups withdrawing their support of Ducey’s plan, Arizona teachers have as well. Last week, 78 percent of educators voted to “walk-out” beginning tomorrow, Thursday, April 26.
The Winslow School District released this statement, “A walk-out date has been given in advance to allow all of us to make preparations. Due to the need for appropriate supervision of students, we are in the process of notifying staff and parents that schools will close in the event of a walk-out. After lengthy consideration, it was determined that there are too many unknowns to appropriately prepare to continue daily school operations. The safety and supervision of our students is a major factor in this decision. A district-wide closure will alleviate additional pressure among and between staff that could be harmful to long-term relationships. It is necessary to begin making arrangements for your children during the walk-out. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.”
Holbrook School District is also closing all schools on Thursday and also on Friday, April 27, with the exception of Indian Wells Elementary School, which will continue as normal. HUSD students will make up those days by attending school on May 11 and May 18.
In a discussion on social media, WUSD representatives preemptively answered questions that may arise from parents. For example, the question of whether or not a walk-out would lengthen the school year was addressed, “Yes. According to state laws and current policies, any day that a school is closed would have to be made up.” That said, a walk-out would not change the date of graduation, although students may have to return to classes following the ceremony date to make up the days.
WUSD Superintendent Cyndie Mattox said, “We will be offering breakfast and lunch at Bonnie Brennan, Jefferson and Winslow High School during the walk-out. Breakfast will be from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. and lunch will be from 11:15 a.m., to 12:15 p.m.”
Arizona educators are hoping to raise awareness of their needs, and to assure a brighter future for the children they teach. Jefferson Elementary School teacher Clairyssa Ballesteros said, “This is more about restoring funding for kids and getting them what they need.” Parents of students in the Winslow District are encouraged to follow the Facebook page titled, “Winslow Unified School District,” for up to date information on the #RedforEd movement. The page is managed by Superintendent Mattox and other district officials.
