Educators across Colorado are engaging in a summer initiative focused on direct outreach to fellow union members. The effort, led by member organizers from the Colorado Education Association (CEA), includes door-to-door visits in communities such as Golden, Grand Junction, Pueblo, and Colorado Springs.
In Jefferson County, members of the Jefferson County Education Association (JCEA) have joined CEA’s year-round organizing program. Their objective is to strengthen relationships within the union and encourage more participation among educators. “This isn’t just something we’re doing in our free time. We are on a mission. We’ve got a goal. We’ve got hearts and minds at stake,” said Ben Wells, JCEA Member and CEA Member Organizer.
Lisa Gary, another organizer working with JCEA members in Golden, described her motivation for participating: “I love doing this. I love going to people’s homes. Somebody answers their door and they’re down to sit on their porch and talk for 30 minutes—just getting that chance to listen to people and elevate their issues is everything.”
Organizers say that these interactions foster community ties among educators and help ensure everyone feels valued within the profession.
The campaign has taken on particular urgency in Colorado Springs after the District 11 school board decided last December to end its collective bargaining agreement with the local teachers’ union and stop payroll deduction for union dues. This move has been described by some as an attempt to weaken union resources.
“We’ve exhausted all options to make sure people know that union values and solidarity are the most important things for educators and students in District 11 right now,” said Kevin Coughlin, President of the Colorado Springs Education Association (CSEA). “There are people in the administration and on the school board who are actively working against public education. This is why we’re out here.”
In response, CSEA launched a campaign encouraging members to switch to autopay for dues payments while reinforcing commitment to the union’s goals.
Angel Givler-Viers, a CSEA member and organizer, emphasized the importance of solidarity: “I love being with other people who believe in public education. It helps fill my bucket so I can keep going because some days are really hard. Advocating for teachers to make sure their voices aren’t taken away—that’s what keeps me coming back.”
Kevin Vick, President of the Colorado Education Association, participated in door knocking efforts in his home district. He spoke about the broader significance of organizing during challenging times: “We are truly in the breach. If you believe the district is worth saving, then we are the best path to make that happen. There is no other power.” He added: “So much of the world feels out of our control right now. This is a place where you can take action. Where you can have ownership in the outcome. Where you’re not a bystander—you’re part of the solution.”
Sam Farnham, another CSEA member organizer, reflected on his experiences meeting colleagues: “Even the people who were on the fence were kind,” he said after his first day canvassing. “We already have so much in common—we’re teachers. We live in the same neighborhoods, we’re working on gardening projects, we care about the same kids. That human connection is everything.”
Union leaders stress that actions taken this summer have implications beyond individual districts or contracts.
“When one contract falls, it gives the opposition ideas that they can do the same thing somewhere else,” said Coughlin. “That’s why it’s critical we all stand together. Contract or no contract, we have to protect what we have and empower others to fight for more.”
The ongoing outreach aims not only at maintaining membership but also at shaping public education through collective action.
