Isabel Rodriguez, a Spanish International Baccalaureate teacher and member of the Summit County Education Association, has quickly become active in union advocacy. As a first-generation Latina educator, Rodriguez initially felt uncertain about representation within the union but decided to get involved after reflecting, “If I cannot see it, then I must create or become it.”
Rodriguez said her participation as a board member during negotiations gave her insight into how educational decisions are made. “Sitting at negotiations as a board member was an eye-opening experience to know what and how decisions are taken into consideration,” she explained. This experience led her to continue engaging in union work from the perspective of a member.
She credits much of her activism to inspiration drawn from women leaders in education and unions. “I learn from all the women that I come in contact with,” Rodriguez said. She highlighted the importance of increasing leadership opportunities for people of color and women within both education and union environments.
Previously employed by a nonprofit organization without unions, Rodriguez now values the role unions play in supporting educators. For those interested in activism, she advises: “What has worked for me has been listening to the work the union does.” By observing leadership and understanding their challenges, Rodriguez developed an appreciation for her role as a member.
Rodriguez spoke at the Capitol during the No More Cuts Rally, sharing her experiences as a Latina educator affected by funding reductions. She emphasized that political decisions directly influence classrooms: “Politics will always affect our classrooms.” She encourages educators to engage with politics to protect their interests and those of their students.
Reflecting on systemic change, Rodriguez stated: “We know we are planting seeds.” She believes that although progress may be slow, current efforts will benefit future generations.
As an A.C.E. Fellow for 2024-25 and mentor for 2025-26, Rodriguez expressed pride in representing educators of color statewide. With more than 25 percent of her students coming from minority backgrounds but few teachers of color present locally, she sees representation as vital: “I believe students deserve to see educators who look like and speak for them. I thought this may be my chance to make an impact.”
Rodriguez hopes her continued involvement will help develop strategies to attract more diverse educators across Colorado.
Her ongoing work through union activism and fellowship programs underscores her commitment to advocacy and representation within education.
