Educators from across Colorado convened virtually this week for what organizers say is the first statewide All-Member Meeting. The event, facilitated by and for members, aimed to share experiences, strengthen unity, and raise the collective voice of educators.
Sam Farnham, a member of the Colorado Springs Education Association (CSEA), recounted the events leading up to a recent strike. He explained that after District 11 ended a decades-old collective bargaining agreement in favor of an employee handbook, educators faced increased uncertainty. This situation led to organizing efforts for a strike amid reports of intimidation from district leaders.
Farnham described the day of action as “a powerful validation of months of organizing and outreach, including canvassing for District 11 school board candidates and talking with thousands of community members who expressed deep support for teachers.” He noted solidarity from other local associations within Colorado and even some out-of-state groups. Parents also organized within their schools despite communication restrictions set by the district. A community art build brought together educators, students, and artists to create banners and signs for the rally.
During these actions, more than 10,000 doors were knocked on, about 1,000 people joined picket lines, and over 2,000 gathered at Acacia Park in support of public education.
The meeting also included discussion about how financial interests are influencing public education policy in Colorado. Participants argued that private investors use nonprofit organizations or initiatives with positive-sounding names to push privatization efforts. These reforms often exploit underfunding in public schools as justification for promoting private alternatives. Attendees discussed how such policies have resulted in fewer resources for classrooms and increased workloads for teachers.
Members were encouraged to counter misinformation about school funding issues like TABOR and privatization by sharing informational materials within their communities. They were also urged to use the CEA Voter Guide when supporting candidates who back public education during upcoming school board elections in districts such as Loveland, Grand Junction, Pueblo, Colorado Springs, Denver, and Jefferson County.
An update was provided on council activities: Members can join the ACCESS Caucus virtual event “Finding Hope in Solidarity” on November 8th to connect with peers facing isolation or burnout.
Organizers reminded those unable to attend that future quarterly meetings will continue online via Zoom on December 9th, February 10th, and April 14th. For more information about participation or upcoming events contact Grace Lynch at glynch@coloradoea.org.
“Your voice matters,” organizers stated. “Let’s keep showing up, speaking out, and building power together!”
