Thousands of teachers and allies protested on May 1 in Raleigh for more resources for North Carolina public schools, called by the North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE).
With the slogan “Kids over Corporations”, the protesters marched to the outskirts of the General Assembly demanding better pay for teachers, more funding for schools and higher taxes for corporations.
Meanwhile, at least 22 schools canceled classes today due to the large number of absences among school staff.
They demand legislative action
Two teachers said they were protesting the lack of action by legislators to pass a state budget.
“I’m here because I’m really frustrated that the state legislature still hasn’t passed a budget, and that’s their primary responsibility,” Caitlin Saunders, a substitute teacher in Orange County, told Enlace Latino NC.
Saunders, who is also the mother of a preschool student, added that public education is fundamental to society.
Hannah Murphy, an art teacher in Chapel Hill, pointed out that teachers should not live in poverty.
“I grew up in North Carolina public schools, and I’ve seen the decline of public education in the state over the past 25 years,” he told Enlace Latino NC.
Murphy added that he has seen a decline in public education in the state over the past few decades and called on lawmakers to “do a better job” of supporting public schools.
Faced with the budget impasse, legislators presented on April 29 Senate Bill 943...with the same title as the demonstration. The measure is endorsed by the NCAE.
Decision on Leandro Case Generates Opposition
Tony Arias Sorto, of the Education Justice Alliance, criticized the North Carolina Supreme Court's ruling in the Leandro case, which It determined that the courts cannot order educational funding..
Following the court's decision, the power to fund public education rests with the North Carolina General Assembly.
“Now our job is to organize in our communities, talk to our representatives and school boards to defend our students,” said Arias Sorto at the demonstration. Enlace Latino NC.
“We must demand that our local leaders stand up for our students,” he added.
Students say present
Students also demonstrated in support of the teachers and expressed that the lack of funding is affecting their education.
“I’m here to show support for the teachers and give a perspective as a student,” a high school student told Enlace Latino NC .
Another high school student emphasized the importance of solidarity with teachers. “It’s important to show them that we’re with them,” he told Enlace Latino NC .
Participants also warned about the impact of the lack of resources in their schools and called on lawmakers to increase funding.
Emilia Rivadeneira contributed to this report. This article will be updated. .
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