Teachers Union hosts Summer of Action rally

Despite the pouring rain and blustery wind, more than 500 teachers, students and Jeffco supporters gathered at Clement Park for the Jefferson County Education Association’s Summer of Action kickoff rally.

“Neither rain nor wind nor clouds will keep this community from taking back our schools,” said speaker and Columbine High School teacher Paula Reed.

The May 29 event featured speakers from JCEA, district support staff, recent graduates and parents, all encouraging those in attendance to get involved with the union, and help spread the word about what is happening on the Jeffco Board of Education and with the school district.

“I’m standing up and I’m asking you to stand up with me,” said Ashlyn Maher, a recent Chatfield High School graduate.

Along with the speeches, the union asked those in attendance to text “SUFAS” to 95402, to show their support and stay up to date with union happenings, community walks, and district news.

“I hope that Jeffco can stop doing what’s happening at DougCo –; it’s not good for kids,” said Laura Eloe, a teacher at Thunderidge High School in Douglas County whose children attend Jeffco schools. “We love our school, we’re at Normandy, and I’m here to support my teachers.”

Currently the union is in talks with the district, negotiating a new Collective Bargaining Agreement. However, while the union says it continues to negotiate in good faith, it is also preparing its members for a possible strike, and sent out Strike FAQs on May 21 to all members.

During the rally the speakers encouraged supporters to be active this summer, taking part in union events, spreading the word about the board’s actions, the impending election and repeatedly –; to stand up against the board and stand up for students.

“You’re amazing, you’re incredible, you’re going to do it –; you’re going to take back our schools,” Reed said, as the audience chanted “Take back our schools!”