Kim A. Anderson executive director of the National Education Association | National Education Association
Thousands of educators, parents, students, and community leaders gathered across the United States to express their concerns about the future of public education. They organized walk-in events to communicate with federal, state, and local officials about the importance of maintaining strong public schools.
"Most of us believe every student deserves opportunity, resources, and support to reach their full potential no matter where they live, the color of their skin, or how much their family earns," said Becky Pringle, President of the National Education Association (NEA), during an event at Takoma Park Middle School. She emphasized that "every student in every community across the nation will be impacted by Donald Trump’s and Elon Musk’s extreme efforts to dismantle public schools."
Walk-ins are gatherings held 30-45 minutes before school starts. Participants discuss desired changes for schools and communities. These events can celebrate achievements or protest policies perceived as harmful.
Since assuming office, Donald Trump and Elon Musk have made moves against public schools. This includes ending critical research into student learning and firing nearly half of the Department of Education staff. According to critics like Pringle, these actions threaten programs that keep class sizes manageable and ensure access to higher education.
Pringle also stated: "Together, we will protect our students and our communities. We won’t let anyone hurt our students or take away opportunities from our families so Trump and Musk can ensure billionaires continue paying less in taxes than educators, nurses, or firefighters." She added that the day was about "educating, organizing, and mobilizing."
The NEA is a major professional organization representing over 3 million individuals involved in education across various roles.
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