Educators from across Colorado participated in what organizers believe is the first statewide All-Member Meeting, held virtually this week. The event, created and facilitated by union members, aimed to foster solidarity and provide a platform for educators to discuss issues affecting public schools.
Sam Farnham, a member of the Colorado Springs Education Association (CSEA), recounted the events leading up to the recent strike in Colorado Springs. He explained that after District 11 ended a 56-year-old collective bargaining agreement and replaced it with an employee handbook that could be changed at any time, educators experienced increased uncertainty. This led to organizing efforts for a strike, despite reports of intimidation from district leadership.
Farnham described the subsequent day of action as the culmination of months of organizing. “The actual day of action itself was amazing. It really was a validation of all the work that we did leading up to it,” he said. He noted the support from other local unions across Colorado and even from outside the state. Parents also became involved by organizing within their schools, even when faced with communication restrictions. The community art build brought together educators, students, and local artists to create banners and signs for the rally.
According to organizers, over 10,000 doors were canvassed, 1,000 people joined picket lines, and more than 2,000 gathered in Acacia Park to support public education and fair treatment for educators.
The meeting also included a discussion on the impact of the education reform movement. Speakers argued that financial interests such as investors, hedge funds, and private equity groups are redirecting public education funds into private ventures. These groups, they said, often use nonprofit organizations or initiatives as a front for privatization efforts. The discussion highlighted how underfunding is used to justify promoting private alternatives, which can further reduce resources for public schools.
Educators were encouraged to counter these trends by sharing informational materials in their communities and to participate in school board elections. The union identified key school board races in several Colorado cities where well-funded opposition groups are active. Members were urged to use the CEA Voter Guide to support candidates who advocate for public education.
Future quarterly meetings are scheduled to continue these discussions and organizing efforts. The next meetings will take place virtually on December 9, February 10, and April 14. For more information, members can contact Grace Lynch, NEA Organizing Fellow.
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