Educators from across Colorado participated in a virtual All-Member Meeting this week, an event organized and facilitated by members of the Colorado Education Association (CEA). The meeting aimed to provide a platform for educators to share experiences, discuss challenges facing public schools, and encourage active involvement in union activities.
Sam Farnham, a member of the Colorado Springs Education Association (CSEA), spoke about recent labor actions in response to District 11’s decision to end a longstanding collective bargaining agreement. According to Farnham, “After District 11 eliminated a 56-year-old collective bargaining agreement and replaced it with a changeable employee handbook, educators in Colorado Springs faced growing uncertainty and frustration. That frustration turned into action as members organized for a strike, even after hearing reports of intimidation and threats from district leaders.”
Farnham highlighted community support during the CSEA Day of Action. “He shared that he found encouragement in the solidarity shown by other locals across Colorado and even some from other states. Even parents stepped up to organize within their schools despite district restrictions on communication.” The day included canvassing efforts, art builds involving students and local artists, and large rallies supporting public education.
During the meeting, participants discussed concerns about the influence of private financial interests on public education funding. They argued that certain reform movements redirect resources away from neighborhood schools toward private entities. Attendees were encouraged to share informational materials with their communities and visit the CEA’s Education Funding page for further action.
The session also addressed upcoming school board elections in key districts such as Loveland, Grand Junction, Pueblo, Colorado Springs, Denver, and Jefferson County. Members were urged to use the CEA Voter Guide to support candidates who advocate for public education.
Additional updates included an invitation to join the ACCESS Caucus’s virtual Community Gathering: Finding Hope in Solidarity event on November 8th. Organizers emphasized ongoing opportunities for engagement through future quarterly meetings scheduled throughout the academic year.
For more information or to get involved in future events, educators can contact Grace Lynch, NEA Organizing Fellow at glynch@coloradoea.org.
